GMAT Focus EditionVerbal ReasoningEasy
A city council is debating whether to fund a new initiative to convert all streetlights to energy-efficient LED bulbs. Proponents argue that the long-term energy savings will justify the initial investment. Opponents, however, claim that the significant upfront cost will place an undue burden on taxpayers, especially given that the current streetlights are still functional. Which of the following, if true, would most strengthen the opponents' argument?
- AThe city has recently invested heavily in other infrastructure projects, leading to a strained municipal budget.
- BMany residents report being satisfied with the current level of street illumination.
- CThe projected energy savings are based on current electricity prices, which are expected to decrease in the next decade.
- DStudies show that LED streetlights have a significantly longer lifespan than traditional bulbs, reducing replacement costs.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. The city has recently invested heavily in other infrastructure projects, leading to a strained municipal budget.
The opponents' argument centers on the 'undue burden on taxpayers' due to the 'significant upfront cost.' If the city's budget is already strained by other recent investments, then adding another significant cost would indeed make the burden more 'undue,' thus strengthening their argument.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Resident satisfaction with current lighting doesn't directly address the financial burden argument, which is the core of the opponents' claim.
- C. Decreasing electricity prices would reduce the *projected energy savings*, thereby weakening the proponents' argument, but it doesn't directly strengthen the opponents' argument about the *upfront burden*.
- D. This strengthens the proponents' argument by highlighting another long-term saving, thus weakening the opponents' argument.
Strengthening Opposing Arguments
To strengthen an opposing argument, provide evidence that directly supports its claims or undermines the opposing side's premises.
- Focus on the core of the argument.
- Identify explicit and implicit claims.
- Look for evidence of negative consequences or limitations.
Memory trick: To make the 'no' stronger, find a hidden burden, or make the 'yes' much longer!