Passage Summary: Cynthia thinks the government should pay for 'pure' science just to help us understand the universe. Luis disagrees, saying the government should only spend money on science that has a clear, practical use, like new medicines or farming techniques.

Reasoning: Cynthia argues that the government should fund theoretical research to further our knowledge of nature. Luis argues that government funding should only be directed toward research with practical applications that benefit society.

Analysis: To find the point at issue, we use the 'Agree/Disagree' test. Cynthia explicitly supports funding theoretical research for its own sake, while Luis uses the word 'only' to restrict funding to research with practical applications. Therefore, if you asked them, 'Should the government fund research that has no known practical application?' Cynthia would say 'Yes' and Luis would say 'No.' Look for an answer choice that captures this specific disagreement over the necessity of practical applications for government funding.