LSAT Explanation PT 42, S2, Q19: Professor: It has been argued that

LSAT Question Stem

The conclusion drawn by the professor follows logically if which one of the following is assumed? 

Logical Reasoning Question Type

This is a Sufficient Assumption question. 

Correct Answer

The correct answer to this question is C. 

LSAT Question Complete Explanation

This is a Sufficient Assumption question, which asks us to identify an assumption that, if true, would make the professor's conclusion follow logically.

Let's first break down the passage and analyze the argument:

Premise: Intellectual Progress (IP) requires Intellectual Discipline (ID)

Conclusion: Freedom of Thought (FT) is not necessary for Intellectual Progress (IP)

To better understand this, let's use a simple example: Imagine a scientist working on a new theory. Intellectual progress is like making advancements in their theory, and intellectual discipline is the rigorous methodology they use to test and develop their ideas. The passage argues that for the scientist to make progress, they need discipline, not necessarily freedom to think about anything they want.

Now let's create an "Evaluate" question: "Is there a relationship between Freedom of Thought and Intellectual Discipline that affects Intellectual Progress?"

Now let's analyze the answer choices:

a) This answer choice suggests that limiting thought to a specific orthodoxy hinders progress. However, it doesn't address the relationship between FT and ID, so it doesn't help us prove the conclusion.

b) This answer choice focuses on the societal value of intellectual progress, but it doesn't address the relationship between FT and ID. Therefore, it doesn't help us prove the conclusion.

c) This answer choice states that in societies with FT, thinkers lack ID. This implies that FT and ID are mutually exclusive, meaning having one leads to the absence of the other. If this is true, then the conclusion that FT is not necessary for IP is justified. This is the correct answer choice.

d) This answer choice supports the counterargument that FT is beneficial for discovering the truth, which is not what we're trying to prove. Therefore, it's incorrect.

e) This answer choice suggests that ID is necessary for FT, but it doesn't prove that FT is not necessary for IP. Thus, it doesn't help us prove the conclusion and is incorrect.

In summary, the correct answer choice is (C), which states that in societies with Freedom of Thought, thinkers invariably lack Intellectual Discipline. This assumption, if true, justifies the conclusion that Freedom of Thought is not necessary for Intellectual Progress.