Critical Reasoning – Implicit Assumptions Statement: The two countries have signed a fragile pact, but the vital sovereignty issue remains unresolved. Assumptions: I. The two countries cannot have a permanent peace pact. II. The two countries may become hostile again after a short spell of time.
Verbal Reasoning
Statement and Assumption
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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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 II is implicit
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Describing a pact as “fragile” while noting an unresolved sovereignty issue signals instability. We must determine which assumption is necessary for this characterization to matter.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Fact: A pact exists but is fragile.
- Issue: A vital sovereignty dispute remains unsettled.
- Assumption I: A permanent peace pact is impossible.
- Assumption II: Hostilities may resume soon.
Concept / Approach:Calling a pact fragile presupposes risk of breakdown, not the impossibility of lasting peace. Thus, the necessary belief is the possibility of renewed hostility, not a categorical “never” on permanence.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Assumption II aligns with “fragile”: the accord could collapse, leading to renewed tensions.Assumption I overreaches: “cannot have permanent peace” is an absolute claim that is not required to call the current pact fragile.Verification / Alternative check:
A fragile bridge may still last if reinforced; fragility signals risk, not impossibility.Why Other Options Are Wrong:
I-only and Both: Commit to an absolute that the statement does not imply.Either/Neither: Fail to capture the clear risk embedded in “fragile.”Common Pitfalls:
Confusing “risk of failure” with “certainty of failure.”Final Answer:Only assumption II is implicit