Letter to the editor: I was shocked to learn that Judge Mosston was convicted of criminal assault, but I disagree with my fellow citizens who believe that he should be forced to resign. I have played cards with Judge Mosston for many years, and he has always shown himself to be fair toward me and our fellow cardplayers. Our judicial system simply cannot afford to lose any just and fair judges.
Which one of the following most accurately expresses the main conclusion of the letter writer's argument?The writer is arguing against the view that Judge Mosston should be forced to resign. The claims about playing cards with him and about the need to keep fair judges are offered as support.
The main conclusion is the writer’s position that Judge Mosston
should not be forced to resign.
(A) Judge Mosston is a fair judge.
Wrong. This is a supporting claim, not the main conclusion.
(B) Judge Mosston should not be forced to resign.
Correct. This is the central point the writer is trying to prove.
(C) Fairness is the most important quality in a judge.
Wrong. The writer values fairness, but does not claim it is the most important quality.
(D) A conviction for criminal assault is never sufficient grounds for damaging anyone's professional career.
Wrong. This is far too broad. The argument is only about Judge Mosston.
(E) Individuals who have interacted with a judge outside that judge's courtroom are the most objective assessors of that judge's fairness.
Wrong. The writer relies on personal experience, but does not make this general claim.
Answer: (B)