Critical Reasoning: Conclusion Strengthening Questions
The State Department is a much sought after office for college graduates interested in international relations. Benjamin F., a young college graduate, is interested in international relations and would like to acquire a position in the State Department. Thus, he has decided to study French to improve his chances.
Which of the following, if true, most seriously strengthens Benjamin F.'s decision to study French?
You're doing well!
[[snippet]]This answer choice provides data about other cases where French proved useful in getting accepted to the State Department: if 60% of the applicants who make it to the State Department know French, and Benjamin F. wants in, his decision to study French makes more sense, i.e., is strengthened.
Incorrect.
[[snippet]]This answer choice weakens Benjamin's decision: if the chance of French speakers to get accepted is just like everyone else's, studying French won't help him.
Incorrect.
[[snippet]]This answer choice neither strengthens nor weakens Benjamin F.'s conclusion; it tells us that French is not required to work in State Department, but does not explain whether knowing French enhances one's chances to get accepted.
Incorrect.
[[snippet]]This answer choice neither strengthens nor weakens Benjamin F.'s conclusion; it tells us that Spanish helps you get accepted to the State Department American, but does not explain whether knowing French enhances one's chances to get accepted.
Incorrect.
[[snippet]]This answer choice neither strengthens nor weakens Benjamin F.'s conclusion; as we know nothing of Benjamin's friend, his recommendation has no significance regarding how to get accepted to the State Department.
