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Zorluk: OrtaUse of Counterexamples

Ecologist: A prominent theory in conservation biology posits that the introduction of an apex predator into an ecosystem will inevitably lead to a long-term decline in the population sizes of the species they prey upon. However, this theory is flawed. When grey wolves were reintroduced to the Yellowstone ecosystem, their primary prey, the elk, changed their foraging behavior to avoid open valleys. This allowed willow and aspen groves to recover, which in turn provided the necessary resources for a massive resurgence in the population of beavers, another prey species of the wolf.

Which of the following most accurately describes the method of reasoning the ecologist uses to undermine the prominent theory?

  1. presenting a specific instance in which a proposed universal consequence failed to occurCevap
  2. B
    inferring that because one apex predator benefited a prey population, most apex predators will have similar positive ecological effects
  3. C
    offering contextual details about a specific ecosystem to demonstrate that the original theory was based on a flawed definition of prey
  4. D
    arguing that the behavioral changes of primary prey species are more ecologically significant than their absolute population sizes
  5. E
    attempting to establish a subsidiary claim about plant recovery as the ultimate conclusion of the argument

Cevap

The correct answer is the option stating that the ecologist presents a specific instance in which a proposed universal consequence failed to occur.
The correct answer accurately captures the logical function of a counterexample. The original theory makes an absolute, universal claim: introduction of apex predators 'will inevitably lead' to prey decline. To destroy an 'inevitable' or 'all' claim, one only needs a single instance where it did not happen. The Yellowstone example provides this exact specific instance, showing that a prey population (beavers) actually increased, thus proving the universal consequence failed to occur.

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1
Identify the main conclusion of the argument.
The main conclusion is 'this theory is flawed,' referring to the prominent theory about apex predators.
Understanding what the author is trying to prove is the first step in analyzing the argument's structure.
2
Analyze the claim being attacked.
The prominent theory claims that introducing an apex predator 'will inevitably lead' to a decline in prey populations. This is a universal, absolute claim.
To evaluate a refutation, you must understand the exact scope and strength of the original claim.
3
Determine how the premises support the conclusion against the claim.
The author provides a single, concrete example (Yellowstone wolves) where an apex predator was introduced, but a prey species (beavers) experienced a population resurgence instead of a decline.
This establishes the functional role of the evidence: it acts as a counterexample to an absolute rule.
4
Match the observed structure to the abstract descriptions in the choices.
The correct option abstractly describes providing a 'specific instance' (Yellowstone) where a 'universal consequence' (inevitable decline) 'failed to occur' (beaver resurgence).
Method of reasoning questions require translating the specific content of the argument into abstract logical terms.

Anahtar Kavram

Use of Counterexamples
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Use of Counterexamples

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