#15- Specific Reference, Must Be True, Purpose/Function

[Administrator]

Complete Question Explanation

The correct answer choice is (A).

Answer choice (A): This is the correct answer choice.

Answer choice (B):

Answer choice (C):

Answer choice (D):

Answer choice (E):


This explanation is still in progress. Please post any questions below!

[alexisjay26]

For this question I was struggling between picking answer choice A and B. Is b incorrect because it says using the technique introduces counter arguments on its own where as the passage states that the technique allows jurors to form their own counter arguments when they are warned about negative info?
Also is A correct because the passage states that this strategy may allow one side to create an image of credibility and negative information can be framed positively (sometimes), the two of these combined making the jury view the client more favorably?

[Adam Tyson]

All of that is correct, alexisjay26, so good job on that analysis. To start with, a good prephrase for this question would be "it works." What does it work at? The author told us that the purpose of stealing thunder is "volunteering damaging information early (to) create an image of credibility." He went on to tell us that research shows that the party that reveals negative information about themselves end up looking more credible and persuasive. We want an answer that reflects those goals being achieved - the party that steals thunder ends up looking better and being believed more as a result.

Nice work, keep that up!

[acp25]

Hello,

I was debating between A or C, and eventually decided C, which is an incorrect answer.
I now see why C is incorrect. Please let me know if I have the proper interpretation of why C is wrong.
Nothing in the passage mentions anything about cases being decided in favor of the clients, but the techniques' ability to persuade the jury, which is mentioned in answer choice A.

Thanks in advance,
A.

[Jeremy Press]

Hi acp25,

Yes, you're on exactly the right track with answer choice C: the passage (for example, in lines 9-10) focuses on using the technique of stealing thunder to minimize the harm of damaging information. But, as you correctly point out, the passage doesn't ever directly connect that to the chances of winning the case overall. I would also be suspicious of answer choice C right off the bat, because of its use of the term "invariably." That's an extreme term that would be difficult to prove, and the author never indicates quite that level of confidence in the technique's effectiveness.

I hope this helps!

Jeremy