ParadoxDiff: Easy
Logic Breakdown
Passage Summary: Some animals go limp when a predator catches them, but it's confusing why they do this since the predator is planning to eat them anyway.
Reasoning: Some animals instinctively play dead when caught, but this behavior seems useless because the predator intends to eat the animal regardless of whether it is moving.
Analysis: The paradox here is why an instinctual survival mechanism would exist if it doesn't actually help the animal survive. We need a piece of information that shows how 'playing dead' provides a hidden advantage that isn't immediately obvious. Perhaps predators react differently to prey that isn't struggling—maybe they loosen their grip to prepare for the meal or get distracted by other potential prey. Look for an answer that provides a scenario where the predator's behavior changes in a way that allows the 'dead' animal a chance to escape.
Reasoning: Some animals instinctively play dead when caught, but this behavior seems useless because the predator intends to eat the animal regardless of whether it is moving.
Analysis: The paradox here is why an instinctual survival mechanism would exist if it doesn't actually help the animal survive. We need a piece of information that shows how 'playing dead' provides a hidden advantage that isn't immediately obvious. Perhaps predators react differently to prey that isn't struggling—maybe they loosen their grip to prepare for the meal or get distracted by other potential prey. Look for an answer that provides a scenario where the predator's behavior changes in a way that allows the 'dead' animal a chance to escape.
Passage Stimulus
Passage Redacted
Unlock Full Passage2.Which one of the following, if true, would most help to resolve the apparent paradox described by the biologist?
Correct Answer
B
If predators often cache prey and don’t eat it immediately, playing dead can keep the predator from delivering a fatal bite right away. When left in a hiding place unattended, the animal can recover and escape—so the behavior has survival value.
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