A new agricultural technique promises to significantly increase crop yields by using genetically modified seeds that require less water. Proponents claim this technique will solve food scarcity issues in arid regions. Which of the following, if true, would most seriously challenge the claim that this technique will solve food scarcity issues in arid regions?
- AFood scarcity in many arid regions is primarily caused by political instability and inadequate distribution systems, not insufficient crop yields.
- BWhile requiring less water, the genetically modified seeds are susceptible to a common pest prevalent in arid regions, leading to crop loss.
- CThe genetically modified seeds are significantly more expensive than traditional seeds, making them unaffordable for many farmers in arid regions.
- DThe technique requires specialized machinery that is not readily available or easily maintained in many arid regions.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Food scarcity in many arid regions is primarily caused by political instability and inadequate distribution systems, not insufficient crop yields.
The core claim is that the technique will 'solve food scarcity issues'. The technique addresses one potential cause (insufficient yield due to water). Option D introduces an entirely different, primary cause for food scarcity (political instability and distribution), suggesting that even if yields increase, the fundamental problem will remain unsolved. This directly challenges the *effectiveness* of the technique in solving the *stated problem*.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. This suggests a direct flaw in the technique's ability to ensure high yields *even if adopted*, thus weakening its promise. However, D is stronger because it questions the very problem definition.
- C. This highlights a practical barrier to adoption, which would prevent the technique from solving the problem, but it doesn't challenge the premise that *if adopted*, it could increase yields and potentially solve the problem.
- D. Similar to A, this points to an implementation challenge, not a flaw in the fundamental premise that increased yields could solve scarcity.
Challenging Problem Definition
Undermining an argument by showing that the proposed solution addresses a secondary or incorrect cause of the problem, rather than the primary or true cause.
- Shifts focus from the proposed solution's efficacy to the problem's root cause.
- Implies the solution will be ineffective because it targets the wrong issue.
- Often involves identifying a more fundamental or pervasive cause.
Memory trick: Is this the right key for *this* lock, or just *a* lock?