In the argument given, the two portions in boldface

SOUMYAJIT NAYAK

The argument is challenging the common thought that aging is the reason for the loss of creativity with scientists above 40.

The studies show that a higher percentage of scientists, who produce highly creative work beyond the age of forty, entered their field at an older age than the usual. This is a fact as it is from the studies.

At the end, the argument is favoring an explanation for why scientist above 40 rarely produce creative work. This explanation is that they have spent too long in their field.

Now the options:

(A) The first is a claim, the accuracy of which is at issue in the argument; [The accuracy of the first bold statement was never questioned. So, wrong.] the second is a conclusion drawn on the basis of that claim.
(B) The first is an objection [The first is not an objection. It is an evidence found from studies. So, wrong.] that has been raised against a position defended in the argument; the second is that position.
(C) The first is evidence that has been used to support an explanation that the argument challenges; the second is that explanation. [The argument is not challenging the second bold statement. It is favoring that explanation. So, wrong.]
(D) The first is evidence that has been used to support an explanation that the argument challenges; the second is a competing explanation that the argument favors.[The argument is not challenging the second bold statement. It is favoring that explanation. So, wrong.]
(E) The first provides evidence to support an explanation that the argument favors; the second is that explanation. [The argument is favoring the second statement which is explaining why scientist above 40 rarely produce creative work. So, this is correct answer.]

Jun 13, 2015 • Comment