LSAT Explanation PT 41, S1, Q3: Xavier: Demand by tourists in Nepal

LSAT Question Stem

Yvette responds to Xavier by 

Logical Reasoning Question Type

This is a Method of Reasoning question. 

Correct Answer

The correct answer to this question is C. 

LSAT Question Complete Explanation

In this dialogue, we have an argument between Xavier and Yvette about the thangka art form in Nepal. Xavier believes that the demand from tourists for inexpensive thangka paintings has led to a decline in quality, and thus, a dying art form. He proposes that Nepal should prohibit the sale of thangkas to tourists, which he thinks will encourage artists to create higher quality, traditional thangkas. This is Xavier's main conclusion.

Yvette, on the other hand, argues that if tourists are not allowed to buy thangkas, young artists would stop making them and focus on other art forms that can be sold to tourists. She believes that this would lead to the decay and death of the thangka art form. Her argument serves as a counter to Xavier's conclusion.

The question type for this problem is Method of Reasoning (MOR), which asks us to identify how Yvette responds to Xavier's argument.

Now, let's analyze each answer choice:

a) Yvette does not deny the existence of the problem Xavier is trying to address (inferior thangkas due to tourist demand). Instead, she argues that his proposed solution would be counterproductive. So, this answer choice is incorrect.

b) Yvette does not challenge the integrity of Xavier's sources of information. In fact, Xavier does not cite any specific sources in his argument. Thus, this answer choice is also incorrect.

c) This answer choice accurately describes Yvette's response to Xavier. She argues that his proposal, if implemented, would result in the very consequences it is meant to prevent (the decay and death of the thangka art form). This matches our prephrased understanding of Yvette's argument and is the correct answer choice.

d) Yvette does not use an analogy in her response to Xavier. She directly addresses the potential consequences of his proposal on the thangka art form. Therefore, this answer choice is incorrect.

e) Yvette does not argue that the evidence presented by Xavier has no bearing on the point at issue. Instead, she focuses on the potential negative consequences of his proposed solution. Thus, this answer choice is also incorrect.

In conclusion, the correct answer to this Method of Reasoning question is (c), as Yvette argues that Xavier's proposal, if implemented, would result in the very consequences it is meant to prevent.