Question

The results of two recent unrelated studies support the idea that dolphins may share certain cognitive abilities with humans and great apes; the studies indicate dolphins as capable of recognizing themselves in mirrors—an ability that is often considered a sign of self-awareness—and to grasp spontaneously the concept of object permanence.
Which of the following, if true, most seriously weakens the argument?

• A. dolphins as capable of recognizing themselves in mirrors—an ability that is often considered a sign of self-awareness—and to grasp spontaneously
• B. dolphins’ ability to recognize themselves in mirrors—an ability that is often considered a sign of self-awareness—and of spontaneously grasping
• C. dolphins to be capable of recognizing themselves in mirrors—an ability that is often considered a sign of self-awareness—and to grasp spontaneously
• D. that dolphins have the ability of recognizing themselves in mirrors—an ability that is often considered a sign of self-awareness—and spontaneously grasping
• E. that dolphins are capable of recognizing themselves in mirrors—an ability that is often considered a sign of self-awareness—and of spontaneously grasping

Hint:

When evaluating scientific claims, be cautious about the specific wording that may change the interpretation of the results.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the argument.
The argument claims that dolphins show evidence of cognitive abilities like humans and great apes. To weaken the argument, we need to introduce evidence that challenges the claim about self-awareness or cognitive abilities.
Step 2: Analyzing the options.
- (A) This doesn’t address the issue directly and doesn’t weaken the argument.
- (B) This weakens the argument by suggesting a confusion or incorrect representation of the dolphin’s abilities, which could undermine the claim.
- (C) This doesn’t change the argument and provides a similar statement to the others.
- (D) This also doesn’t weaken the argument; it’s a similar statement.
- (E) This does not significantly weaken the argument.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (B), as it introduces a weakness in the representation of the dolphin’s abilities.