Despite a general decline in sales of other eco-friendly vehicles, the EcoDrive is experiencing a surge in popularity. The manufacturers of the EcoDrive claim that this success is due to its competitive pricing and exceptional fuel efficiency. However, since the EcoDrive's price and fuel efficiency are similar to those of its rivals, it is more plausible that its popularity stems from consumers' desire to be seen as environmentally responsible by their peers. Which one of the following is an assumption required by the argument?
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Greatt
thank you taking time to upload it!
This is definitely a test-day trap
thank you for sharing
This one seems pretty clear. The argument says the EcoDrive's popularity is due to wanting to be seen as eco-responsible, so it must be that the car is seen as more eco-friendly than others. That's exactly what B says.
Yeah, that's what I thought too. But I initially picked D because of the friends thing, but that's not necessary. It's about perception, not who your friends are.
Why not A? The argument says price is similar, so affordability isn't the reason. But could it be that it's the most affordable? No, because they said price is similar to rivals. So A is out.
Right, A contradicts the premise that price is similar. So it can't be an assumption.
I was stuck between B and E. E says owners are less concerned about environmental issues, but that would mean they don't care, so why would they want to be seen as eco-responsible? Actually, it might support the argument? Hmm, but it's not necessary. B is definitely needed.
What it tests
Whether you can identify the unstated assumption a critical-reasoning argument depends on.
Common trap
Picking an option that strengthens the argument or is merely relevant instead of one that is required.