The mind and the immune system have been shown to be intimately linked, and scientists are consistently finding that ...

Isaiah-Klassen October 2, 2019

Must Be true Question Stem

I think this question is not a Must be true question. Here's my logic: I was at first confused as to why (D) is the right answer as it is not supported directly from the information in the passage, as we do not know what is in someone's own interests. There are many people that want to die, it would not be in their self interest to be healthier, for example, a cancer patient who is in so much pain they would rather die. However, the question stem is "if the statements above are true they support the view that", which (D) actually fits because if I was arguing for that view the stimulus would completely support. Anyhow, I would love to hear a response as to whether my logic makes sense, and if it doesn't, why?

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SamA October 2, 2019

Hello @Isaiah-Klassen,

You are thinking a bit too far out of the box for this question. Unless the passage makes a reference to suicidal people, then that concept is outside of the scope of this question. For the purposes of the LSAT, we can safely assume that having a strong, healthy immune system is in one's best interest. Let's take another look at the passage.

Premise: Scientists are finding that doing good deed's benefits one's immune system.

Example :The bone marrow and the spleen, which produce infection fighting white blood cells, are linked to the brain. These white blood cells are stimulated by beneficial chemicals in the brain as a result of magnanimous behavior.

Notice the word "beneficial," as used in the example. We don't have to assume that doing good deeds are in one's best interest. It tells us as much specifically in the passage. This is why D is correct.

I agree with you that "must be true" is a bit strong. Maybe magnanimity in all its forms does not always benefit one's self interest. However, if we were to make that claim, then the information given in the passage would give it some support.