Question

which of the following pieces of information, if true, would most weaken the author’s argument? a the term \lobbyists\ is too general to effectively describe a disparate group of people, all of whom hold different values and support different causes. b recent study reports that 90% of lobbyists surveyed oppose campaign finance reform. c the connection between politicians and lobbyists is nothing new, even though a hundred years ago people used different words to describe those who wielded influence over politicians. d the house of representatives acknowledged receipt of a petition with over 5,000 signatures in support of campaign finance reform. e a bill to enact the first step toward campaign finance reform was proposed by a junior senator during the last session of congress

Explanation:

To determine which option weakens the author's argument (presumably about lobbyists' stance on campaign finance reform, though the original argument isn't fully shown, we analyze each option):

• Option A: Discusses the generality of the term "lobbyists"—not directly related to weakening an argument about their stance on reform.
• Option B: If 90% of lobbyists oppose campaign finance reform, this provides evidence against a claim (e.g., if the author argued lobbyists support reform) and weakens it.
• Option C: Talks about the long - standing connection between politicians and lobbyists, not relevant to their stance on reform.
• Option D: A petition in support of reform doesn't directly address lobbyists' stance and is less impactful than B.
• Option E: A bill proposal doesn't relate to lobbyists' stance.

Answer:

B. Recent study reports that 90% of lobbyists surveyed oppose campaign finance reform.