Evaluate the argument can be best solved using the variance test. With each option you need to test whether the argument is strengthened in case the information were true and weakened if the opposite of the information were true or vice versa. In case an option makes a argument weak on one front and strong on other front, then that's your answer.For
Evaluate questions, identify a factor that creates a
logical two-way split:
- Strengthen or assumption: If the factor is favorable, it supports or reinforces the conclusion.
- Weaken: If the factor is unfavorable, it undermines or threatens the conclusion.
The key is to find something that is worth evaluating
before accepting the conclusion because either answer could affect it.
Example:Quote:
“We should implement this plan because it will solve air pollution.”
Ask:
Quote:
Will there be any obstacles/problems that could prevent the plan from working? - NO obstacles → Strengthens the conclusion
- YES obstacles → Weakens the conclusion
Therefore, the correct
Evaluate factor is the one that creates this
logical two-way split: : one answer supports the conclusion, while the opposite answer undermines it.
see this other exemple:
The manifesto of a non-profit organization claims that its founders' sole purpose is to help people quit smoking cigarettes. The organization's activities are in the form of seminars which are conducted by volunteers in outdoor public areas. Although the seminars carry no expenses, participants are required to pay a fee. It is clear that the organization's members are not acting according to their own manifesto.The answer to which of the following would be most useful in evaluating the argument?(A) In the event that a participant is not satisfied with the seminar, can that participant receive a refund?Wrong: the focus is that as they are asked to pay a free, org in not acting according the manifesto. So, we are not concerned with satisfaction level(B) Does the manifesto make any mention of the actual methods used by the volunteers to assist people with their addiction?Wrong: out of scope(C) Is the fee paid by the participants in the seminar lower than what regular companies would charge for participation in a seminar of a similar nature?Wrong: we don't need comparisons. it may be lower or not but in any case it wouldn' clarify if org in not acting according the manifesto.(D) Does the payment of a fee contribute in any way to the process of quitting smoking?correct: if YES it's acting according to the manifesto because it's helping. if NO it's acting against. So, we need to evaluate this one because one side strenghtens and the other side weakens the conclusion. So, it's worth evaluating. TRY TO THINK OF THE POSSIBLE ASSUMPTION MADE OR SOMETHING SUPPORTING THE CONCLUSION AND ITS WEAKEN COUNTERPART FIRST.(E) What percentage of the members of the organization are ex-smokers?wrong: out of scope. misses the point