LSAT 126 | Section 4 | Logical Reasoning: Q10

LR Question 10 Explanation

QUESTION TEXT: In some countries, national planners have attempted to…

QUESTION TYPE: Strengthen

PARADOX: The economists conclude that the problem of urbanization could be solved by producing goods and services in exchange for agricultural products from abroad. This would solve the problem of lack of domestic food production caused by rural depopulation.

ANALYSIS: We don’t know why the national planners were trying to keep people in rural areas. Was it because of dropping food production? Overcrowding? Social unrest? Lack of infrastructure?

The economists’ idea only solves the first problem. Their conclusion will be strengthened if we can show that national planners were primarily worried about food production.

___________

1. This doesn’t talk specifically about agriculture, and so it doesn’t help the economists’ argument.
2. That may be, but it doesn’t mean that this particular economic solution is correct.
3. CORRECT. This supports the conclusion, as it shows lack of food is a major concern arising from urban migration.
4. This doesn’t help the economists, as it’s not clear their solution will help the trade balance. The plan will produce more exports but also more imports.
5. Uh-oh, this weakens the economists’ conclusion. It tells us that their solution (trade) will actually make the problem worse.

Recap: The question begins with “In some countries, national planners have attempted to”. It is a Strengthen question. Learn more about LSAT Strengthen questions in our guide to LSAT Logical Reasoning question types.