Logic Breakdown

Passage Summary: Vandenburg thinks the museum is failing because it lacks modern art, but Simpson argues that since most modern art isn't very good, the museum is right to keep its collection small.

Conclusion: The museum's small contemporary art collection is actually appropriate for its mission.

Reasoning: The museum is intended for art, not for general historical documentation, and the curators believe there is very little contemporary art of sufficient quality to include.

Analysis: Simpson's argument relies on a shift in priorities. While Vandenburg focuses on the founders' intent for equal representation, Simpson prioritizes aesthetic quality. To justify Simpson's logic, we need a principle that bridges the gap between 'low quality' and 'small collection size.' Look for an answer that suggests a museum's primary obligation is to quality rather than historical breadth or the specific quotas envisioned by its founders.

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5.

Which one of the following principles, if valid, most helps to justify the reasoning in Simpson's response to Vandenburg?

Correct Answer
A
A grounds Simpson’s reasoning by saying an art museum should collect only what its curators deem high quality. If curators see little high-quality contemporary art, a small contemporary collection is appropriate—exactly Simpson’s conclusion.
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