Necessary AssumptionDiff: Easy
Logic Breakdown
Passage Summary: A gardener argues that because nature has many different-looking rocks, Japanese gardens—which are supposed to match nature—should also use a wide variety of rocks.
Conclusion: Rocks selected for Japanese gardens should have a wide variety of appearances.
Reasoning: These gardens are intended to harmonize with nature, and rocks in the natural world exhibit a wide variety of appearances.
Analysis: The gardener is making a leap from a general goal (harmony) to a specific aesthetic requirement (variety). This argument relies on the assumption that 'harmony with nature' is achieved by replicating the specific diversity found in nature. To find the necessary assumption, look for a statement that connects the concept of harmony to the requirement of mirroring nature's variety; if harmony didn't require variety, the gardener's logic would fall apart.
Conclusion: Rocks selected for Japanese gardens should have a wide variety of appearances.
Reasoning: These gardens are intended to harmonize with nature, and rocks in the natural world exhibit a wide variety of appearances.
Analysis: The gardener is making a leap from a general goal (harmony) to a specific aesthetic requirement (variety). This argument relies on the assumption that 'harmony with nature' is achieved by replicating the specific diversity found in nature. To find the necessary assumption, look for a statement that connects the concept of harmony to the requirement of mirroring nature's variety; if harmony didn't require variety, the gardener's logic would fall apart.
Passage Stimulus
Passage Redacted
Unlock Full Passage5.The gardener's argument depends on assuming which one of the following?
Correct Answer
B
B connects the premise to the conclusion: in rock selection, imitation of nature helps achieve harmony with nature. Negation test: if imitating nature in rock selection does not help achieve harmony, then the fact that natural rocks vary gives no reason to vary the garden’s rocks; the conclusion collapses. So B is necessary.
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