Flawed ReasoningDiff: Medium
Logic Breakdown
Passage Summary: Wirth claims that because a single 'manic-depression gene' hasn't been found, the idea of a genetic link is a myth; Chang argues that Wirth is ignoring the possibility that many genes could work together to cause the same effect.
Conclusion: The assertion that people are genetically predisposed to manic-depression is false.
Reasoning: The failure of researchers to identify a single gene responsible for the condition implies that no such genetic link exists.
Analysis: Wirth's argument suffers from a classic 'error of composition' or a failure to consider alternative causes. Wirth assumes that if a single, specific cause (one gene) is missing, the phenomenon (genetic predisposition) cannot occur. Chang’s criticism highlights that Wirth is overlooking the possibility of a more complex biological mechanism. When looking for the flaw, focus on the gap between the absence of a single factor and the total dismissal of the phenomenon itself. The correct answer should describe Wirth's failure to consider that multiple genes could collectively produce the predisposition.
Conclusion: The assertion that people are genetically predisposed to manic-depression is false.
Reasoning: The failure of researchers to identify a single gene responsible for the condition implies that no such genetic link exists.
Analysis: Wirth's argument suffers from a classic 'error of composition' or a failure to consider alternative causes. Wirth assumes that if a single, specific cause (one gene) is missing, the phenomenon (genetic predisposition) cannot occur. Chang’s criticism highlights that Wirth is overlooking the possibility of a more complex biological mechanism. When looking for the flaw, focus on the gap between the absence of a single factor and the total dismissal of the phenomenon itself. The correct answer should describe Wirth's failure to consider that multiple genes could collectively produce the predisposition.
Passage Stimulus
Passage Redacted
Unlock Full Passage22.Which one of the following most accurately expresses Chang's criticism of Wirth's argument?
Correct Answer
A
A accurately describes Chang’s critique: Wirth presupposes only one possibility (a single-gene mechanism) when more than one possibility exists (polygenic interaction).
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