#12 - Though Earth’s human population is increasing, it

[zebrowski]

In comparison, answer choice (B) presents information that shows that some people on Earth will likely have issues accessing water in the near future. Adding that information into the stimulus significantly weakens the conclusion that water will not be an issue.

To push back a little, I don't think answer choice (B) presents information that shows that some people on Earth will likely have issues accessing water in the near future. The amount of fresh water available could very well vary significantly from region to region but still be sufficient in each region to last centuries.

Answer choice (B) is one of the weakest weakeners I have seen, though perhaps the best one on offer.

[Jeff Wren]

Hi zebrowski,

While I agree that the scenario that you describe is possible based on the wording of Answer B, it certainly isn't necessary. The fact that "the amount of fresh water available to meet the needs of the Earth's population varies significantly from region to region" certainly raises a possible problem/flaw in the argument.

The argument assumes that, because most of the Earth's fresh water supply is unused, this supply is available to be used throughout the Earth (i.e. there would be no logistical problems, political problems, etc. getting the water to where it needs to go), and this assumption is questionable. Answer B partly addresses this unwarranted assumption.