Critical Reasoning: Boldface Type Questions
In a recent experiment, scientists constructed an environment with certain conditions that would contribute to excessive stress levels in lab rats. The rats were separated into two groups before being subjected to the stressful environment. One group was treated with linaloyl oxide through natural respiration while the other was not. Although it has been believed for centuries by certain medicinal researchers that the plant-based alcohol could be effective as an anxiety reducer, the broader medical community has remained skeptical. This skepticism will clearly change since the published results of the experiment reveal that there was an undeniable link between the administered substance and the moderate and controlled status of the treated rats' neutrophil granulocytes, a central component of the immune system indicative of stress, despite the manipulated, stress-inducing environment.
In the argument, the two portions in boldface play which of the following roles?
Incorrect.
[[snippet]]Although this answer choice's first definition is right, its second is not. The phrase exposes the refutability basically means undermines, i.e., it means the second boldface portion undermines the conclusion. However, the second boldface portion completely agrees with the argument's position since it directly supports it.
Incorrect.
[[snippet]]The second boldface portion does not develop the concept, but rather provides evidence that the concept is true. Also, describing the first boldface as questionable goes too far - the concept is questioned (i.e. under examination), but questionable is taken in this context as "probably wrong", and that goes against the argument's position.
Incorrect.
[[snippet]]While this answer choice correctly defines the first boldface portion, it is incorrect regarding the definition of the second. The second boldface portion validates the relationship described in the first rather than calls it into question.
Incorrect.
[[snippet]]The first boldface portion cannot be referred to as evidence since it is worded as an old belief, that had not been verified objectively. You can immediately eliminate answer choices that incorrectly define the first boldface part; do not waste time reading the rest.
Correct!
[[snippet]]The first boldface portion cites an old belief which has not been proven, only speculated; the second validates this speculation with scientific findings.
