LSAT 150 | Section 3 | Logical Reasoning: Q8

LR Question 8 Explanation

QUESTION TEXT: Of the many works in a collection from Japan’s Tokugawa period…

QUESTION TYPE: Flawed Parallel Reasoning

CONCLUSION: “Spring and Autumn Maples” is among the most valuable pieces in the collection.

REASONING: A piece will be on display for only two weeks if it is sensitive to light or is among the most valuable pieces. “Spring and Autumn Maples” is on display for only two weeks.

ANALYSIS: The flaw here is that there are two reasons for a piece to be displayed for only 2 weeks, but the argument assumes one of them is true. It’s possible “Spring and Autumn Maples” is not among the most valuable, but is sensitive to light.

We are looking for an answer where there are two possibilities that can create a certain outcome, but the author assumes from the outcome that one is true. It will follow a format like this:

If X or Y, then Z

Z is true, so X is true

___________

1. This doesn’t match the flaw.
2. This is a different flaw.
3. This doesn’t match the flawed reasoning.
4. This doesn’t match.
5. CORRECT. This matches our reasoning. There are 2 different things a purple dot can mean – monuments and hospitals. But the author assumes the purple dot on Wilson St. is a hospital, just like the original author assumed that being on display for two weeks meant “Spring and Autumn Maples” was one of the most valuable pieces.

Recap: The question begins with “Of the many works in a collection from Japan’s Tokugawa period”. It is a Flawed Parallel Reasoning question. Learn more about LSAT Flawed Parallel questions in our guide to LSAT Logical Reasoning question types.