Introduction / Context:
This is an assumptions question from critical reasoning. We are given an administrative decision (changing bus routes to improve economic viability) and asked which underlying beliefs must be true for the decision to make sense. An assumption is an unstated idea that the author/decision-maker takes for granted and that is necessary for the conclusion or action to be reasonable.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Decision: Change routes of three buses between points A and B to make them economically viable.
- Assumption I: Revised routes may attract more passengers.
- Assumption II: Many people on old routes may not use the bus service.
Concept / Approach:
To test an assumption, ask: “If this were false, would the decision still be sensible?” If the answer is “no,” it is implicit (required). If the decision can still stand without it, then it is not implicit. Also avoid adding extra information not required by the decision’s goal (economic viability).
Step-by-Step Solution:
Goal = better economics. Main lever = ridership and/or revenue per km.If assumption I is false (revised routes do not gain passengers), then simply changing routes would not help viability. Therefore assumption I is necessary.Assumption II concerns people on old routes not availing the service. Even if some old-route riders stop using the bus, the decision could still be right provided overall ridership/revenue improves. This belief is not required for the decision; at best it is a side effect, not a necessary premise.
Verification / Alternative check:
Try negating: If buses do not get more passengers on the revised routes, “economically viable” would be unlikely—so I is essential. If people on old routes continue to use alternative stops or feeder routes, the decision could still work—so II is not needed.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
II-only (option b) ignores the economic objective.Either I or II (option c) is incorrect because I is specifically required but II is not.Neither (option d) is wrong since I is necessary.Both (option e) is too strong; II is not required.
Common Pitfalls:
Confusing possible side effects (losing some old-route riders) with necessary premises for the intended outcome.
Final Answer:
Only assumption I is implicit
Discussion & Comments