Logic Breakdown

Passage Summary: Critics say Freud's ideas are anti-logic because they deal with hidden urges, but since the goal of therapy is to bring those urges into the light to be controlled, the critics are missing the point.

Conclusion: Freudianism is not actually at odds with the rationalistic traditions of Western thought.

Reasoning: While critics claim Freudianism is irrational because of its focus on unconscious desires, the practice actually aims to make those desires conscious so they can be managed rationally.

Analysis: The argument uses a 'But' to pivot away from the critics' perspective, suggesting the author intends to defend Freudianism. Since the critics' main charge is 'incompatibility' with rationalism, the most logical completion will be a statement that asserts compatibility. Look for an answer that emphasizes how the goal of psychoanalysis—bringing the unconscious into conscious control—aligns perfectly with rationalist values.

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12.

Which one of the following most logically completes the argument?

Correct Answer
A
A cleanly states the upshot: since psychoanalysis can make unconscious desires conscious and thereby prevent them from defeating rational plans, Freudianism is not opposed to the rationalistic mainstream.
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