resources

[BigGameJames]

The earth’s resources are being depleted much too fast. To correct this, the United States must keep its resource consumption at present levels for many years to come.

Which of the following, if true, would most strengthen the argument above?
(A) New resource deposits are constantly being discovered.
(B) The United States consumes one-third of all resources used in the world.
(C) Other countries need economic development more than the United States does.
(D) Other countries have agreed to hold their resource consumption at present levels.
(E) The United States has been conserving resources for several years.

[bug]

i'm on B,
any thoughts guys?

[tablesalt]

My pick is B, because it is the answer that points to the assumption that the US is a key resource consuming country in the world. Only by this, it can be said that conservation efforts in US can impact conservation efforts of the world.

[socratesinus]

How would B help? US consumes 2/3rd and earth's resources are burning out fast!

E does!

I am for E

[geekybiz1]

My pick is D.

Agree that B provides a base to say that US consumption is substantial. But, what if other countries increase their levels while US stays where it is? D appears stronger base to me.

Wuts the Official Answer?

[Man_on_the_Moon]

B is the best.
The statement asks US to hold to present levels. This holds good only when US is a major consumer. B presents this well.

[shud]

My pick is D.

Agree that B provides a base to say that US consumption is substantial. But, what if other countries increase their levels while US stays where it is? D appears stronger base to me.

Wuts the Official Answer?

B is best.
Your point is valid. But that is not mentioned in the passage anywhere. Also, what if other countries reduce the consumption level ?

[geekybiz1]

Shud,
Here's my reasoning for D:

Known fact: World's resources depleting fast.
Opinion: US should keep its consumption to current levels.

What's missing here:
World - US = Other countries.
So, if we can provide some info about other countries, it will provide a base.
D, if true, does that.

As per my understanding, problem with B is:
US current consumption level = 1/3.
If US stays where it is - rest of the world increases consumption, the 1/3rd proportion of US will fall - thus effectiveness would be lost.
(I know B does not talk about increase in consump. of other countries.. but its jst one of the possibilities)

Please lemme know in case if I'm missing some point with D...

[amitg_ind]

Argument is not concerned with the 'rest of the countries'. It is saying that the 'earths resources' depletion can be controlled by 'americas conservation'.

This is only true if 'America' is the biggest consumer.

IMO, B

[safazal]

Go with B.