Critical Reasoning

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.

11. 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

Query: Answer provided as E. I am not sure as the argument does not talk about political interests of U.S.. Can somebod please elaborate?

The author is saying that the truth is the surest weapon in our fight against our foes. If this is true, then the disinformation campaigns will not always help us, as stated in E.

Here's a look at the remaining answers:

A-The author makes no argument that is based in morality.
B-The author does not discuss moral standing.
C-There is no discussion of long-term vs. short-term effects in the argument.
D-There is no discussion of the effects that the campaign has had

As you can see, the key thing is to focus exclusively on what the author said, not what they might have meant of what facts might explain the situation. Think inside the box.

Hi Matt,

Thank you for the exp.

But i still fail to understand E as answer.

You agree that the author has assumed that "truth is the weapon for U.S." So, doesnt truth form a part of moral values. Also, doesnt B highlight the importance of truth.

Please suggest.

Looking at it now, E makes sense