Question

Which statement best evaluates the author's response to the counterclaim that because antibiotics have proven effective in many situations, prescribing an antibiotic is a sound first step for doctors?

Responses

It is effective because the author uses an emotional personal anecdote, which gives her credibility and supports the idea that antibiotics are not always effective.
It is effective because the author uses an emotional personal anecdote, which gives her credibility and supports the idea that antibiotics are not always effective.

It is ineffective because the author includes a statistic, but the statistic does not directly support the assertion that prescribing an antibiotic is often the best course of action.
It is ineffective because the author includes a statistic, but the statistic does not directly support the assertion that prescribing an antibiotic is often the best course of action.

It is ineffective because the author relies heavily on a personal anecdote as opposed to facts and statistics that refute the opposing claim.
It is ineffective because the author relies heavily on a personal anecdote as opposed to facts and statistics that refute the opposing claim.

It is effective because the author cites and explains a statistic to illustrate that even though antibiotics work in some situations, they are still often not prescribed correctly.

Answer 1

The most accurate evaluation of the author's response to the counterclaim is:

**It is effective because the author cites and explains a statistic to illustrate that even though antibiotics work in some situations, they are still often not prescribed correctly.**

This response acknowledges that the author uses evidence (a statistic) to address the counterclaim, demonstrating that while antibiotics can be effective, their inappropriate use remains a significant issue.