Question

As an example of the devastation wrought on music publishers by the photocopier, one executive noted that for a recent choral festival with 1,200 singers, the festival’s organizing committee purchased only 12 copies of the music published by her company that was 5 performed as part of the festival.
Which of the following, if true, most seriously weakens the support the example lends to the executive’s contention that music publishers have been devastated by the photocopier? 

• A. Only a third of the 1,200 singers were involved in performing the music published by the executive’s company.
• B. Half of the singers at the festival had already heard the music they were to perform before they began to practice for the festival.
• C. Because of shortages in funding, the organizing committee of the choral festival required singers to purchase their own copies of the music performed at the festival.
• D. Each copy of music that was performed at the festival was shared by two singers.
• E. As a result of publicity generated by its performance at the festival, the type of music performed at the festival became more widely known.
• F.

Hint:

When analyzing arguments about impact or damage, always consider alternative explanations (like funding or logistics) that might weaken the claim.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the executive’s contention. 
The executive argues that music publishers have been devastated by the use of photocopiers, presumably because people can make copies of the music instead of purchasing it. 
Step 2: Analyzing each option. 
- (A) This doesn't weaken the contention. Only a small portion of the singers being involved in the music doesn't directly address the broader issue of photocopying.
- (B) This does not address the issue of photocopying at all. Singers hearing the music before practicing does not relate to how publishers are impacted by photocopying.
- (C) This weakens the argument, as it suggests that the lack of funding caused singers to buy their own copies, which doesn't imply that photocopying or piracy is harming music publishers.
- (D) This also weakens the argument because it suggests that multiple singers are sharing one copy of music, implying that the number of music purchases is less important than the actual practice and distribution method.
- (E) This strengthens the executive’s argument, as it suggests that the music becomes more widely known, potentially increasing its value and sales rather than being copied. 
Step 3: Conclusion. 
The correct answer is (C) because it suggests that the music publishers might not be suffering from photocopying as much as the lack of funds or other logistical issues, weakening the executive's argument. 
Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{(C) }} \]