It is said that people should accept themselves as they are instead of being dissatisfied with their own abilities. ...

Shiyi-Zhang on May 4, 2019

Why is E incorrect?

Why is E incorrect?

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Ravi on May 4, 2019

@Shiyi-Zhang,

Happy to help. This is a strengthen with a necessary premise question,
so we're looking for the answer that, if false, makes the argument
fall apart. We can use the negation test with each of the answer
choices to see which answer is right. If the negation doesn't wreck
the argument, we know that answer choice isn't the correct answer.

(E) says, "Happiness is not genuine unless it is based on something
that is painful to obtain."

(E)'s negation is, "Happiness can be genuine even if it isn't based on
something that is painful to obtain."

The problem with (E) is that the argument already provides us with
conditions that have to be met for general happiness. We do not need
to add more conditions, and happiness doesn't have to be painful to
obtain.

(B) says, "People who are not dissatisfied with themselves are less
likely than others to pursue personal excellence."

(B)'s negation is, "People who are not dissatisfied with themselves
are more likely than others to pursue personal excellence."

If people aren't dissatisfied with themselves were more likely to
pursue personal excellence, then the argument would be wrecked because
this would invalidate the entire reason for someone not to accept
themselves as they are. Thus, (B) is required in order for the
argument to stand a chance, so it's the correct answer, as it's a
necessary premise.

Does this make sense? Let us know if you have any more questions!