LNAT Addressing Counterarguments 2

Question 1

A debater claims: 'Speed cameras reduce accidents.' An opponent responds: 'Drivers just slow down at cameras and speed up after.' What type of counterargument is this?

Accepted Answer

A rebuttal challenging the effectiveness of the measure

Answer

The opponent challenges whether speed cameras actually achieve their stated goal, making it a rebuttal about effectiveness.

Question 2

When an author 'steelmans' a counterargument before refuting it, what is the primary purpose?

Accepted Answer

To present the strongest version of the opposition to make the eventual rebuttal more credible

Answer

Steelmanning presents the counterargument at its strongest, so defeating it demonstrates the author's position is robust.

Question 3

A passage argues for mandatory voting. A counterargument states: 'Forcing people to vote violates freedom of expression.' Which response best addresses this counterargument?

Accepted Answer

Compelled participation in civic processes differs from compelled speech, and blank ballots preserve expressive freedom

Answer

This response directly engages the freedom concern by distinguishing civic participation from compelled speech and noting that abstention remains an option.

Question 4

In LNAT passages, a 'tu quoque' counterargument attempts to:

Accepted Answer

Dismiss an argument by pointing out the arguer's own inconsistency or hypocrisy

Answer

Tu quoque ('you too') attacks the arguer's credibility by alleging hypocrisy rather than addressing the argument's logic.

Question 5

An author argues that social media increases political polarization. A counterargument notes: 'Polarization existed long before social media.' How should a strong author respond?

Accepted Answer

Acknowledge polarization's historical roots while arguing social media uniquely accelerates or deepens it

Answer

Acknowledging the historical point while arguing social media introduces a qualitatively different dynamic is a sophisticated and honest response.

LNAT - Law National Aptitude Test Practice Test

LNAT - Law National Aptitude Test Practice Test

LNAT Addressing Counterarguments 2