Introduction / Context:
This critical-reasoning item asks which arguments are “strong” regarding worker participation in management. In these questions, a strong argument is specific, relevant to the decision, and not based on vague slogans or sweeping generalizations. We assess each claim on its own merit, not on our personal policy preferences.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- The proposal: allow employees to participate in factory management.
- Four arguments are offered (two in favor, two against).
- We judge logical strength, not empirical proof beyond what is reasonably general.
Concept / Approach:
- Good arguments present a mechanism (how/why) rather than an appeal to fashion or stereotype.
- Generalizations about literacy or wages must connect directly and necessarily to management participation.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Argument I (“present management theory”) is weak: it appeals to fashion/authority without substance. A theory’s popularity is not a reason by itself.Argument II (“many workers are illiterate”) is a hasty generalization and ignores training, representation, and diverse workforces. It fails as a blanket reason to reject participation.Argument III (productivity in employee-owned firms) speaks to ownership structure, not simply participation rights. It may be partially supportive but overgeneralizes and conflates ownership with management participation; thus, it is not strong as stated.Argument IV (ownership drives up wages) is an unsupported assertion and again confuses union/employee ownership with the narrower idea of participation. Weak.
Verification / Alternative check:
A well-framed strong argument would cite specific governance mechanisms (works councils, codetermination) and measured outcomes. None of the four does this adequately.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Only I and II / Only II and III / All: Each credits weak claims.“None is strong” would imply all four are weak; however, option set lacks “Only III” which might seem plausible to some. Given the conflation issues, the best fit is that none is strong; hence “None of these” matches “only III” not being present.
Common Pitfalls:
Equating popularity or stereotypes with strength; conflating employee ownership with participation.
Final Answer:
None of these
Discussion & Comments