LSAT 107 | Section 3 | Logical Reasoning: Q11

LR Question 11 Explanation

QUESTION TEXT: Astronomer: Astronomical observatories in many areas…

QUESTION TYPE: Method of Reasoning

CONCLUSION: We can have well-lit streets and dark skies.

REASONING: Sandsville has taken measures to keep down light while still ensuring safe streets.

ANALYSIS: This is a good argument. Some people argue that it’s impossible to have both safe streets and dark skies. The astronomer proves them wrong with a counterexample.

___________

1. The astronomer appealed to example, not scientific authority.
2. There was no evidence given in support of the other position. The astronomer uses his own evidence to challenge their unproven general principle.
3. The scientist isn’t giving an explanation. He’s making a practical proposal to solve a problem.
4. Which two terms is the astronomer distinguish? Term A: _______ Term B: ________. Never pick this type of answer unless you can fill in those two blanks.
5. CORRECT. A counterexample disproves a general claim. If you say that no pen can ever be green, I can prove you wrong by showing you a single green pen. That’s a counterexample.

Recap: The question begins with “Astronomer: Astronomical observatories in many areas”. It is a Method of Reasoning question. Learn how to master LSAT Method of Reasoning questions on the LSAT Logical Reasoning question types page.