Question 12

The first presents a goal, strategies for achieving which are being evaluated in the argument; the second is a judgment providing a basis for the argument's advocacy of a particular strategy.

The argument evaluates the goal of preserving the land surrounding the Wilpinn Wilderness Area through purchasing it from farmers. It critiques this strategy as ill-conceived and instead advocates for assisting farmers in modernizing their farms to ensure the viability of farming, which supports the overall preservation strategy.

A) The first presents a goal that the argument rejects as ill-conceived; the second is evidence that is presented as grounds for that rejection.

This option misrepresents the role of the first boldface portion, which does not simply reject the goal but evaluates it alongside strategies for achieving that goal. The second portion provides a judgment that supports an alternative strategy rather than serving solely as evidence for rejecting the initial goal.

B) The first presents a goal that the argument concludes cannot be attained; the second is a reason offered in support of that conclusion.

This choice inaccurately interprets the argument's conclusion regarding the goal. The argument does not conclude that the goal cannot be attained; rather, it suggests an alternative approach to achieving the goal through modernization of farms.

C) The first presents a goal that the argument concludes can be attained; the second is a judgment disputing that conclusion.

This option is incorrect because it suggests that the second boldface portion disputes the conclusion regarding the attainability of the goal. In reality, the argument advocates for a strategy that supports achieving the goal rather than disputing it.

D) The first presents a goal, strategies for achieving which are being evaluated in the argument; the second is a judgment providing a basis for the argument's advocacy of a particular strategy.

This is the correct interpretation. The first boldface portion indeed outlines the preservation goal, while the second evaluates the viability of farming and provides a rationale for advocating a strategy focused on modernization, rather than mere land purchase.

E) The first presents a goal that the argument endorses; the second presents a situation that the argument contends must be changed if that goal is to be met in the foreseeable future.

This option is not accurate because the argument critiques the method of achieving the goal rather than simply endorsing it. It does not focus solely on changes needed for the goal but rather emphasizes a different strategic approach.

Conclusion

The correct answer, D, effectively captures the nuanced evaluation presented in the argument. The first boldface portion outlines a preservation goal, while the second provides a judgment that supports the argument's recommendation of a more effective strategy. All other options fail to accurately represent the relationship and roles of the boldface portions within the context of the argument.