Critical reasoning — identify implicit assumptions Statement: If you are an engineer, we have a challenging job for you. Assumptions: I. We need an engineer for the role. II. You are an engineer.
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AOnly assumption I is implicit
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BOnly assumption II is implicit
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CEither I or II is implicit
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DNeither I nor II is implicit
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EBoth I and II are implicit
Answer
Correct Answer: Only assumption I is implicit
Explanation
Introduction / Context:This statement is a conditional offer: “If you are an engineer, we have a challenging job for you.” The task is to identify the minimal assumption(s) needed for such a conditional recruitment message to be sensible.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- An organization is offering a challenging job contingent on the listener being an engineer.
- Assumption I: The role requires an engineer (need for that qualification).
- Assumption II: The specific listener is indeed an engineer.
Concept / Approach:Conditionals do not assume the antecedent is true; they merely state what happens if it is. Therefore, the statement does not presuppose that “you are an engineer.” It does presuppose that the organization actually needs an engineer; otherwise the conditional would be pointless.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Parse the conditional: If (you are an engineer) → then (we have a job for you).Negate I: If there is no need for an engineer, the conditional makes no sense; thus I is necessary.Negate II: The conditional still stands even if the listener is not an engineer; it merely does not apply. II is not necessary.Therefore, only I is implicit.Verification / Alternative check:Recruitment ads routinely target qualifications without assuming the candidate already meets them. The requirement (need for an engineer) underpins the statement.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- Only II / Either / Both: Misread the conditional as presupposing the antecedent.
- Neither: Ignores the organization’s need that motivates the offer.
Common Pitfalls:Confusing conditional applicability with assumed truth of the condition.
Final Answer:Only assumption I is implicit