A recent survey showed that 70% of respondents in City X believe that public parks are essential for community well-being. However, only 30% of those same respondents reported visiting a public park in the last month. This discrepancy indicates that most residents of City X do not truly value their public parks.
- AIt does not account for the possibility that the survey respondents were not representative of City X's population.
- BIt assumes that actively visiting a park is the only way to demonstrate its value.
- CIt fails to consider that some people might value parks without being able to visit them frequently.
- DIt ignores the fact that 70% is a majority, suggesting a strong belief in the parks' importance.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. It fails to consider that some people might value parks without being able to visit them frequently.
The argument incorrectly equates 'valuing' something with 'frequently using' it. People can value public parks for many reasons (e.g., aesthetic appeal, environmental benefits, availability for others) even if they personally cannot visit them often due to age, disability, work schedule, or other constraints. The discrepancy doesn't necessarily mean a lack of true value.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. The argument explicitly states 'those same respondents,' implying the comparison is within the surveyed group. Even if not representative of the city, the flaw in reasoning about the *discrepancy* within the group remains.
- B. This option is very similar to A, but A is more specific and encompassing. 'Only way to demonstrate value' is a strong claim, whereas 'without being able to visit them frequently' directly addresses the discrepancy without overstating the argument's assumption.
- D. While 70% is a majority, the argument focuses on the discrepancy between belief and action, not the absolute number. This option does not identify a flaw in the reasoning about that discrepancy.
Action-Belief Discrepancy
A flaw in reasoning where a conclusion about a person's true belief or value is drawn solely from their actions, ignoring other factors that might prevent actions from aligning with beliefs.
- Assumes a direct, unhindered link between belief and action.
- Fails to consider external constraints or alternative ways to express value.
- Often seen in arguments that equate 'doing' with 'valuing'.
Memory trick: Discrepancies aren't always what they seem; look for hidden reasons and unfulfilled dreams!