Explanation
Reading the question: we can start yet again with the
question stem. We might be motivated to do so by the fact that the question
stem can be seen at a glance to have some substantial language in it (it's not
just asking for a flaw, as in Drivers Over 30). The stem gives us a specific
task: explain why Utility Corp would pursue a less profitable option. A correct
answer to this question will clarify the situation without contradicting any of
the facts we have so far. For example, maybe the Corp is motivated by something
other than greater profits. With that as our filter, a prediction along the
lines of "some other motivation," we can turn to the answer choices.
Applying the filter: The answer choices don't match our
particular prediction. In fact, the only answer choice that seems relevant to
the situation is (E); it's the only one comparing the two options. But choice
(E) might, at first, seem to contradict the data--aren't profits from nuclear
were greater? Reviewing the question, we see the company has a specific level
of cash in its budget, we are told. And there's a high up-front cost to
building a nuclear plant, according to (E). So a nuclear plant might be bad for
the company's current cash situation, even if it's more profitable in the long
run. Choice (E) is a good explanation. Meanwhile, (A) and (D) are focused on
the park, which isn't really relevant to the coal vs. nuclear decision. Choice
(C) mentions a random detail about coal that hasn't been connected to the coal
vs. nuclear question.
Note: in the language of the Critical Reasoning Strategy
at the beginning of this book, we started off with a filter than was a
"prediction" and we ended up using a filter that was less specific, one of
"basic relevance." It's typical, if our
prediction doesn't turn out as planned, to slip back to a less specific filter
of the answer choices. And the various filters can be quite similar, so you
don't need to worry too much about which type you are using or whether you
switch--at this point, the important thing is to practice having a filter of
some sort before you turn to the answer choices.
The correct answer is (E).
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