LSAT 156 | Section 2 | Logical Reasoning: Q11

LR Question 11 Explanation

QUESTION TEXT: Professor Williams: Professor Thomas’s report characterizes …

QUESTION TYPE: Flawed Reasoning

CONCLUSION: Thomas’ criticism of York shouldn’t be trusted.

REASONING: Thomas is jealous, biased, and frustrated.

ANALYSIS: This is a classic ad hominem flaw. You should know and recognize this flaw.

As soon as someone attacks the source of an argument (the person) rather than the merits of the argument, they’ve lost. Just because a person might be evil or jealous or stupid, doesn’t mean their claim is wrong. You have to actually evaluate their claim to determine that it’s wrong.

___________

1. The argument doesn’t hinge on distinguishing confrontation from entertainment.
2. This is describing circular reasoning, which isn’t the flaw here.
3. There’s no confusion about endorsing a view.
4. CORRECT. Williams attacks Thomas’s character instead of addressing his argument.
5. Too weak. The issue isn’t that Williams ignores a possibility. It’s that he attacks the source.