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#23561
Complete Question Explanation

Method of Reasoning-CE. The correct answer choice is (E)

This is a method of reasoning question, so it is worthwhile to briefly look back and refresh your memory as to how the author proceeds in making her argument. The author starts by explaining a general argument made by "many people." We know that when "many people" or "some people" argue something, the stimulus author will almost always make a counterargument against those people. That is the case here, as the author provides a specific example to dispute the general argument presented.

Answer Choice (A): At no point does the author appeal to any type of scientific authority. Just as in Must Be True questions, you must be able to support your answers in Method of Reasoning with something that specifically occurs in the stimulus.

Answer Choice (B): No evidence is provided to support the original argument. There is no way for the accuracy of non-existent evidence to be questioned.

Answer Choice (C): This question is not dealing with a natural phenomenon. It is addressing the issue of not being able to observe stars because of the man-made lights in cities. Further, the author provides a solution to a problem, not a scientific explanation to a phenomenon.

Answer Choice (D): There is no distinction of terms made, or necessary in this stimulus.

Answer Choice (E): This is the correct answer choice. The general claim is that interference from lights is inevitable. The counterexample is the town of Sandsville, which has restricted unnecessary lighting and installed special street lamps that direct all their light downward.
 ericj_williams
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#84567
How is there no evidence in support of the opposing opinion even though there is a premise indicator - "since streetlights are needed for safety."
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 KelseyWoods
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#84592
Hi Eric!

You're right, "since" is premise indicator so there is some support offered for the opposing claim. Is the statement "streetlights are needed for safety" really evidence, though? That's somewhat more debatable.

But let's assume that it does qualify as evidence. Does the astronomer question the accuracy of the evidence? Does the astronomer say that no, actually streetlights are not needed for safety? Nope! The astronomer just points out that streetlights don't necessarily have to create light interference. The astronomer isn't questioning the accuracy of the premise, just showing that the premise, even if true, does not necessarily lead to the conclusion.

Hope this helps!

Best,
Kelsey

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