GRE General TestAnalytical WritingMedium
A city council is contemplating a proposal to ban plastic water bottles in all municipal buildings. The proponent argues that this ban will significantly reduce plastic waste and promote environmental sustainability. A skeptical council member states, 'But people will just bring their own plastic bottles, or buy drinks in cans, so what's the point?' How could the proponent most effectively counter this skepticism?
- ABy suggesting that the ban will encourage a cultural shift towards reusable containers over time.
- BBy pointing out that cans are recyclable, unlike plastic bottles.
- CBy presenting data showing that the majority of plastic waste in municipal buildings currently comes from single-use water bottles.
- DBy arguing that even a small reduction in plastic bottle use is a step in the right direction.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. By presenting data showing that the majority of plastic waste in municipal buildings currently comes from single-use water bottles.
The skeptic's point is that the ban won't achieve its goal because people will find alternatives. The most effective counter is to show that, despite alternatives, the primary source of the problem targeted by the ban (single-use plastic water bottles) is significant enough to warrant the action, thus demonstrating a tangible impact.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This is a hopeful outcome, but not a direct, immediate counter to the skeptic's claim about the ineffectiveness of the ban.
- B. While true, this doesn't directly counter the skeptic's point about the ban's effectiveness in reducing plastic *bottle* waste; it merely suggests an alternative, potentially still disposable, material.
- D. This is a weaker counter-argument as it concedes the point without demonstrating significant impact.
Countering Skepticism
To counter skepticism means to provide evidence or reasoning that directly addresses and alleviates doubts or objections raised about a claim or proposal.
- Requires understanding the root cause of the skepticism.
- Often involves providing specific data or logical explanations.
- Aims to rebuild confidence in the original claim or proposal.
Memory trick: Objections need OBJECTIVE answers.