(A) is incorrect because it states that more restrictions should be placed on owners of burglar alarms then on car alarms. The argument never tells us that car alarm owners shouldn't have restrictions placed on them, rather it just says that car alarms aren't effective.
(C) is correct because it identifies the change that happens in the argument. At the beginning of the argument, it appears that the conclusion will be only that burglar alarms are bad and that they should be banned. But, the sentence in question then tells us that they are actually effective and suggests simply that people be fined. So, as this answer choice points out, the sentence provides a basis for eliminating the option that burglar alarms be banned, and instead provides the alternative of fining owners because they are effective.
AdamMay 14, 2020
reading the question there is no indication that banning is a conclusion being met only that they are a nuisance to police and cost time. The way the statement is written states that "However, burglar alarm systems, unlike car alarm systems, are effective in deterring burglaries, so the only acceptable solution is to fine burglar alarm system owners the cost of 45 minutes of police time for each false alarm their systems generate." this solution seems strange following the reveal of the information that home alarms are in fact successful. it feels like the success should off set the detriment to police while car alarms ineffectiveness would render them more susceptible to fine. i just feel there is missing information to jump to the conclusion that banning them was ever an idea. it just is saying there is an issue at hand but then states ultimately they do their job ( which would save police time). would you agree the answer is worded poorly? seems like its worded in a way that loses its meaning ultimately.
Brett-LindsayJune 28, 2020
I missed that question, too, partly due to the confusing wording, and partly because I hadn't noticed an "obvious alternative."
Upon reflection, though, it does seem rather obvious.
My take on it all is that just because you don't notice something doesn't mean it's not there, so, in the future, I'll be asking myself, "Could there be another explanation?" and "Why did the speaker say this? What was the purpose of this sentence?"
