LSAT 143 | Section 3 | Logical Reasoning: Q2

LR Question 2 Explanation

QUESTION TEXT: While sales of other highly fuel-efficient automobiles…

QUESTION TYPE: Necessary Assumption

CONCLUSION: The Hydro is probably doing well because people want to seem environmentally friendly.

REASONING: The Hydro has no advantages over competing fuel efficient cars.

ANALYSIS: The argument has given us zero evidence to support buying the Hydro. As far as we know, it’s the same as other cars. The conclusion says people buy it to seem environmentally friendly. So it’s a necessary assumption that the Hydro has an environmentally friendly reputation. (Even though it’s no better for the environment)

___________

1. All that matters is that Hydro sales are rising. The Hydro doesn’t have to be number 1.
   Negation: The Hydro is doing incredibly well, and sales are increasing faster than all other cars. However, the Hydro is not yet the top selling fuel-efficient car.
2. CORRECT. If this isn’t true, then there’s no reason that people would buy the Hydro to seem environmentally friendly.
   Negation: The Hydro does not have a reputation for being more environmentally friendly than its competitors.
3. This weakens the argument by providing an alternate explanation for the rising sales. A necessary assumption answer should strengthen the argument if true.
4. This doesn’t tell us why people buy Hydros. In fact it may weaken the argument because it implies people may be buying Hydros in order to mimic their neighbors. (Rather than for environmental reasons)
5. You might have picked this because you thought Hydro buyers were covering for their lack of interest in the environment by buying the Hydro – but that’s a HUUUUGE stretch and definitely not necessary.
   Negation: Buyers of the Hydro have the same interest in the environment as do purchasers of other fuel efficient cars.