LSAT 4 | Section 4 | Logical Reasoning: Q12

LR Question 12 Explanation

QUESTION TEXT: The ancient Egyptian pharaoh Akhenaten, who had a profound…

QUESTION TYPE: Flawed Reasoning

CONCLUSION: Akhenaten the pharaoh was popular among his people.

REASONING: His palace guards supported him.

ANALYSIS: What a silly argument. An unpopular pharaoh had better make extra sure to hire loyal palace guards if he has any hope of surviving.

Loyalty amongst elite soldiers is not an indicator of general popularity.

___________

1. The palace guards’ loyalty doesn’t contradict the conclusion; it just doesn’t support it very well.
2. We could challenge the evidence if we found a text that stated that the guards were not loyal. This would be difficult, but not impossible if they truly weren’t loyal.
3. CORRECT. Yes. To find out what the people thought we would need evidence about them, not the palace guards. Palace guards are usually loyal unless the leader is truly doomed.
4. It’s quite clear that ancient meant a long time ago, back when pharaohs ruled Egypt.
5. No. Popularity was important for a ruler than, just as now.

Recap: The question begins with “The ancient Egyptian pharaoh Akhenaten, who had a profound”. It is a Flawed Reasoning question. Learn more about LSAT Flaw questions in our guide to LSAT Logical Reasoning question types.