A city planning committee proposes converting a downtown park into a commercial complex to generate tax revenue and revitalize the city center. They argue that this will significantly boost the local economy. Which of the following, if true, would most strengthen the committee's argument?
- ASimilar projects in other cities have led to increased traffic congestion and decreased air quality.
- BSurveys show that local residents highly value the existing park for recreation and green space.
- CThe proposed commercial complex includes several high-end retail stores and restaurants that are currently absent from the city.
- DThe city's current tax revenue from the downtown area is already among the highest in the region.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. The proposed commercial complex includes several high-end retail stores and restaurants that are currently absent from the city.
To strengthen the argument that a new commercial complex will boost the local economy, one needs to show that the complex will bring new economic activity or fill a market gap. High-end retail and restaurants that are currently absent would attract new consumers and spending, directly contributing to economic growth.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This weakens the argument by pointing out potential negative consequences.
- B. This weakens the argument by highlighting a negative impact and potential public opposition.
- D. High current tax revenue doesn't automatically mean a new complex will boost it further, nor does it address the 'revitalization' aspect.
Strengthening an Argument
To strengthen an argument means to introduce information that makes the conclusion more likely to be true, often by supporting an assumption, providing additional evidence, or ruling out alternative explanations.
- Reinforces the link between premises and conclusion.
- Makes the conclusion more probable.
- Can provide new evidence or validate existing claims.
Memory trick: To strengthen, add a new link or reinforce an existing one.