Point at IssueDiff: Medium
Logic Breakdown
Passage Summary: Two people are debating what makes scientific research valuable: one thinks the pursuit of new ideas is the top priority, while the other insists that saving lives is what matters most.
Conclusion: Laird believes the most valuable aspect of pure research is its ability to expand knowledge, while Kim believes its most valuable aspect is saving lives.
Reasoning: Laird argues that while research saves lives, its role in providing new ideas is even more worthwhile; Kim counters that saving lives is the highest priority and that research is essential for medical advancement.
Analysis: To identify the point at issue, apply the 'Agree/Disagree' test to each speaker's stance on the primary value of research. Laird explicitly ranks 'expanding knowledge' above 'saving lives,' whereas Kim explicitly states that 'saving lives is what counts most.' You should look for an answer choice that highlights this specific disagreement over which benefit of pure research takes precedence.
Conclusion: Laird believes the most valuable aspect of pure research is its ability to expand knowledge, while Kim believes its most valuable aspect is saving lives.
Reasoning: Laird argues that while research saves lives, its role in providing new ideas is even more worthwhile; Kim counters that saving lives is the highest priority and that research is essential for medical advancement.
Analysis: To identify the point at issue, apply the 'Agree/Disagree' test to each speaker's stance on the primary value of research. Laird explicitly ranks 'expanding knowledge' above 'saving lives,' whereas Kim explicitly states that 'saving lives is what counts most.' You should look for an answer choice that highlights this specific disagreement over which benefit of pure research takes precedence.
Passage Stimulus
Passage Redacted
Unlock Full Passage9.Laird and Kim disagree on whether pure research
Correct Answer
D
D captures their dispute. Laird would deny that the most valuable achievements of pure research are medical (since knowledge expansion is “even more worthwhile”), while Kim, who puts saving lives first and credits pure research for medical advances, would affirm it.
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