Flawed ReasoningDiff: Medium
Logic Breakdown
Passage Summary: If a computer can beat a human at chess, it means either computers can think or chess isn't a 'thinking' game. Either way, we'll have to change how we define intelligence.
Conclusion: The creation of a successful chess-playing computer would inevitably alter our understanding of human intelligence.
Reasoning: A computer that plays chess well would demonstrate either that machines are capable of thought or that the game of chess does not actually require thinking.
Analysis: The argument presents a false dichotomy, assuming that these are the only two possible interpretations of a computer's success at chess. It fails to consider that our current conception of intelligence might already be flexible enough to accommodate a machine playing chess without needing a total overhaul. When looking for the flaw, focus on the assumption that a change is 'surely' required. The argument ignores the possibility that we might already accept that machines can perform complex tasks without it redefining our view of human cognition.
Conclusion: The creation of a successful chess-playing computer would inevitably alter our understanding of human intelligence.
Reasoning: A computer that plays chess well would demonstrate either that machines are capable of thought or that the game of chess does not actually require thinking.
Analysis: The argument presents a false dichotomy, assuming that these are the only two possible interpretations of a computer's success at chess. It fails to consider that our current conception of intelligence might already be flexible enough to accommodate a machine playing chess without needing a total overhaul. When looking for the flaw, focus on the assumption that a change is 'surely' required. The argument ignores the possibility that we might already accept that machines can perform complex tasks without it redefining our view of human cognition.
Passage Stimulus
Passage Redacted
Unlock Full Passage19.The reasoning above is most vulnerable to criticism on the grounds that it does not consider the possibility that
Correct Answer
D
D points out that a successful program might not model a human approach. If success comes from a nonthinking‑like method, it wouldn’t prove machines think or that chess requires no thinking, undercutting the either/or claim.
Upgrade Your Prep
Ready to go beyond free explanations?
LSAT Perfection is the #1 modern LSAT prep platform, trusted by thousands of students for comprehensive test strategies, advanced drilling, and full analytics on every PrepTest.
Detailed explanations for 59 PrepTests
Advanced drillset builder
Personalized analytics
Built-in Wrong Answer Journal