Question

A city council is considering the construction of a new sports stadium, arguing that it will stimulate local economic growth by creating jobs and attracting tourists. Proponents believe the stadium will revitalize the area, increase spending, and ultimately benefit the local community. Which of the following assumptions does the argument make?

• A. The construction and operation of the new stadium will create jobs for the local population.
• B. The local economy is currently in a recession, so adding a sports stadium is necessary to stimulate growth.
• C. The new stadium will not harm the existing local businesses.
• D. The residents will have more disposable income and spend more money after the stadium is built.
• E. The construction of the stadium will be the primary factor contributing to the economic growth of the area.

Hint:

In assumption questions, look for what must remain true for the argument to succeed. If negating an option weakens the argument, that option is the correct assumption.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Identify the conclusion of the argument.
The argument concludes that building a new sports stadium will stimulate economic growth and benefit the local community.
Step 2: Understand what an assumption question requires.
An assumption is something that must be true for the argument’s reasoning to hold; if it is false, the argument weakens.
Step 3: Analyze the options.
Option (A) is already stated in the argument and hence is not an assumption.
Option (B) introduces a recession, which is not mentioned or required.
Option (C) is necessary because if the stadium harms existing local businesses, the claimed economic benefit may not occur.
Option (D) goes beyond the argument and assumes an additional outcome not required for the conclusion.
Option (E) exaggerates the role of the stadium and is not necessary for the argument to work.
Step 4: Core underlying assumption.
The argument assumes that the new stadium will not negatively impact existing local businesses; otherwise, the net economic benefit would be questionable.
Final Answer:
\[ \boxed{\text{Option (C)}} \]