Statement: Should college libraries stay open until midnight during examination weeks?
Arguments:
I. Yes. Every other college already does this.
II. Yes. Many students who share small rooms need a quiet place to study late during examinations.
Which arguments are strong?

Only I is strongCorrect answerYour answerOnly II is strongCorrect answerYour answerEither I or II is strongCorrect answerYour answerBoth I and II are strongCorrect answerYour answer

Show the answer and explanation

CorrectNot quiteAnswer B

Correct answer: B

I is weak: it rests on what other colleges do, and "every other college" is a sweeping claim that is not backed up.
II is strong: it names a real need of students that longer hours would meet, directly tied to the question.
Only II is strong.

Worth noting

Both arguments say "Yes"; the verdict is about the quality of the reason, not the side it takes.

Concept: Judging arguments on the same side
Typical timeTypical: 70 s
Your timeYours: —

The rule this testsArguments: strengthen and weaken

Practise this chapter →

Ten questions from Statements, Conclusions and Assumptions, at your own pace.

Statement: Should college libraries stay open until midnight during examination weeks?Arguments:I. Yes. Every other college already does this.II. Yes. Many students who share small rooms need a quiet place to study late during examinations.Which arguments are strong?

Explanation

Statement: Should college libraries stay open until midnight during examination weeks?
Arguments:
I. Yes. Every other college already does this.
II. Yes. Many students who share small rooms need a quiet place to study late during examinations.
Which arguments are strong?