top of page

LSAT Preptest 152, Section 2, Question 17

"Scientist: A number of errors can plague…"

Explanation

The scientist points out a pattern that suggests a potential bias in the data correction process, where the corrections made tend to support Jones's theory more often than not. The statement does not lead to a definitive conclusion but highlights a pattern where data corrections seem to favor a particular theory.

A. This does not address the correction of data or the potential bias in the process of data correction. 


B. (Correct Response) If researchers give data conflicting with Jones's theory greater scrutiny than data in line with the theory, this could lead to a bias in which corrections tend to favor the theory, explaining the observed tendency. 


C. Although this option suggests a bias in the choice of research pursued, it does not directly explain why corrections would favor Jones's theory. 


D. This statement is about the existence of errors, not the tendency of corrections to favor a particular theory. 


E. The existence of other theories does not explain why corrections would specifically favor Jones's theory.

Option B provides a plausible explanation for the observed tendency: if data that conflicts with Jones's theory is scrutinized more rigorously, it could result in corrections that disproportionately favor the theory, thereby explaining the pattern the scientist has noticed.

bottom of page