Logical ReasoningDifficulty: Hard

PT11 S2 Q18 Explanation

The format of network television news

A free, expert breakdown of this official LSAT Logical Reasoning question.

TopicsNecessary Assumption

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Stimulus

The format of network television news programs generally allows advocates of a point of view only 30 seconds to convey their message. Consequently, regular watchers become accustomed to thinking of issues in terms only of slogans and catch phrases, and so the expectation of careful discussion of public issues gradually disappears from of network television news programs increases the tendency to think of public issues in oversimplified terms.

What this question is testing

Necessary Assumption

Your task

Find the assumption the argument requires in order for its conclusion to hold.

Common trap

Answers that would help the argument but aren't strictly required (sufficient, not necessary).

Winning move

Negate each choice — the right one breaks the argument when negated.

Reading along? Open the full official question in LawHub — we show a fragment here and keep the reasoning in our own words.

The question
18.

The argument assumes which one of

Answer choices

  1. Trap5% picked this

    Viewers of network television news programs would be interested in seeing advocates of opposing views present

  2. Trap5% picked this

    Since it is not possible to present striking images that would symbolize events for viewers, and since images hold sway over words

  3. Trap23% picked this

    It is not possible for television to present public issues in a way that allows for the nuanced presentation of diverse views and a

  4. Correct67% picked this

    In network television news reports, it is not usual for a reporter to offer additional factual evidence and background information to develop a story

    Why this is right

    Answer D is correct.

    Skill tested: Necessary Assumption · how this choice captures the argument's function is the move to repeat next time.

  5. Trap0% picked this

    Television news reporters introduce more of their own biases into news stories than

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