LSAT (Law School Admission Test)Reading ComprehensionMedium
Passage: "The 'tragedy of the commons' describes a situation in which individuals, acting independently and rationally according to their own self-interest, behave contrary to the best interests of the whole group by depleting some common resource. This concept, popularized by Garrett Hardin, often applies to environmental issues like overfishing or deforestation, where individual gain leads to collective loss. However, recent scholarship suggests that the 'tragedy' is not inevitable. Communities with strong social norms, local governance, and effective communication channels have often successfully managed common-pool resources for centuries without depletion. These alternative models emphasize cooperation, trust, and locally tailored rules, challenging the universality of Hardin's original thesis and highlighting the importance of institutional design in preventing resource degradation." The author's discussion of 'recent scholarship' serves primarily to:
- AIntroduce alternative perspectives that challenge the inevitability of the 'tragedy of the commons.'
- BProvide historical examples of successful resource management prior to Hardin's theory.
- CSuggest that the 'tragedy of the commons' is no longer a relevant concept in modern resource management.
- DCriticize Garrett Hardin for his pessimistic view of human nature.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Introduce alternative perspectives that challenge the inevitability of the 'tragedy of the commons.'
The passage introduces 'recent scholarship' with the phrase 'However, recent scholarship suggests that the 'tragedy' is not inevitable.' This clearly indicates its purpose is to present a counter-argument or alternative viewpoint to Hardin's original thesis, challenging its universality.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. While the scholarship refers to communities managing resources 'for centuries,' the primary purpose is to introduce the *alternative perspective* itself, not merely to list historical examples.
- C. The passage states Hardin's concept 'often applies' and provides a 'theoretical benchmark' for understanding, implying its continued relevance, even if its inevitability is challenged.
- D. The author presents the scholarship as challenging Hardin's thesis, not primarily to criticize him personally or his view of human nature.
Purpose of Counterargument
Understanding why an author introduces opposing views or alternative perspectives in a passage, often to qualify, challenge, or refine a preceding argument.
- Often signaled by transition words like 'however,' 'nevertheless,' 'but,' or phrases like 'some argue.'
- Can be used to show the complexity of an issue, introduce a new angle, or set up a refutation.
- It helps to develop a more nuanced or balanced discussion.
Memory trick: Counterpoints Challenge, Clarify, and Create Complexity.