Question

Read the two passages from arguments on water conservation.

Passage 1:

After stricter water-usage restrictions were passed, residents started using less water per month. This shows how legislation can influence citizens’ actions and why more restrictions are needed to further decrease water waste. Government action is the best way to effect lasting environmental change.

Passage 2:

Citizens showed their dedication to water conservation by responding positively to new water restrictions and lowering their water usage. This indicates that no new restrictions need to be put in place. Our residents are concerned about water conservation and will work hard to keep water waste to a minimum.

How do these authors use the same evidence about water usage to support their arguments?

The authors expand on the evidence to different degrees.
The authors disagree about the validity of the evidence.
The authors use the evidence to attack and discredit their opponent.
The authors agree on the problem but offer different solutions.

Answer 1

The authors agree on the problem but offer different solutions.

Both authors reference the same evidence—that residents reduced their water usage after restrictions were implemented—but they interpret this evidence in contrasting ways. Passage 1 argues that the observed behavior indicates the need for more government restrictions to continue improving water conservation efforts, while Passage 2 concludes that the current efforts are sufficient and that residents are already motivated to conserve water without additional restrictions.