Critical Reasoning

Hi,

The answer is E but it sounds like D is also correct if E is correct. (both sounds same taste..)

Can anyone please explain why E is logically correct?

As one who has always believed that truth is our nation’s surest weapon in the propaganda war against our foes, I am distressed by reports of “disinformation” campaigns by American intelligence agents in Western Europe. In a disinformation campaign, untruths are disseminated through gullible local journalists in order to damage the interests of our enemies and protect our own. Those who defend this practice say that lying is necessary to counter Soviet disinformation campaigns aimed at damaging America’s political interests. These apologists contend that one must fight fire with fire. I would point out to the apologists that the fire department finds water more effective.

The author’s main point is that

(A) although disinformation campaigns may be effective, they are unacceptable on ethical grounds

(B) America’s moral standing in the world depends on its adherence to the truth

(C) the temporary political gains produced by disinformation campaigns generally give way to long-term losses

(D) Soviet disinformation campaigns have done little to damage America’s standing in Europe

(E) disinformation campaigns do not effectively serve the political interests of the United States

The author's point refers to the united states dissemination of false information. The point arguement he addresses is that of soviet dissinformation campaigns and the need to negate them.

Answer D deals with the damage done by the soviet union to the united states. This answer is outside of the scope of the arguement. No where in the reasoning is there discussion of scale of damage done by this campaign on either side.

Okay, now I see premise and conclusion.

thanks for your help!