Newscaster: In order for the public to participate in a meaningful way in the current public policy debate, one requirement is that the issues be stated in terms the public can understand. The mayor’s speech has just stated these issues in such terms, so now the public at least might be able to participate in a meaningful way in the current public policy debate.
Question: Which one of the following most closely parallels the newscaster’s argument in its reasoning?
Options:
A. One must know Russian if one is to read Dostoyevski’s original text of Crime and Punishment. Rachel has never learned Russian; therefore she cannot read the original text of Crime and Punishment.
B. In order to reach one’s goals, one must be able to consider these goals carefully. Laura has reached her goals, so she must have been able to consider those goals carefully.
C. One cannot confuse the majority of one’s students if one wants to be a good teacher. Hugo wants to be a good teacher; therefore, he might be able to avoid confusing the majority of his students.
D. In order to discover the meaning of certain seldom-used words, one must use a good dictionary. Paul has used a good dictionary, so Paul must have discovered the meaning of those words.
E. One must at least have warm clothing if one is to survive in a very cold climate. Jerome has obtained warm clothing; therefore, he might be able to survive in a very cold climate.
Answer: E