Question

According to a recent article in a medical journal, consuming curcumin (from turmeric) significantly lowers the risk of COVID-19. The researchers draw this conclusion from a study that found that people who consumed one or more teaspoons of curcumin extract every day were half as likely to be diagnosed with the disease as people who did not consume curcumin.
Which of the following, if true, most weakens the argument in the article?

• A. In another study, people who were given a zinc supplement every day were more than four times less likely to be diagnosed with COVID-19 as those who did not.
• B. All the participants in this study were from the same state where no other spices or herbs are consumed.
• C. The participants who consumed curcumin were also more likely to exercise than those who did not.
• D. In another study, COVID-19 patients who were given curcumin were no more likely to recover than others.

Hint:

To weaken an argument, provide an alternative explanation for the observed result that challenges the proposed cause.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The argument in the article suggests that curcumin consumption significantly lowers the risk of COVID-19. To weaken this argument, we need evidence that suggests other factors, such as exercise, might explain the difference in diagnosis rates rather than curcumin consumption alone.
Step 1: Evaluate each option.
- (A) The study mentioned in option (A) suggests that zinc supplements lower the likelihood of being diagnosed with COVID-19, but this doesn't directly weaken the argument about curcumin's effect.
- (B) Option (B) is irrelevant because it does not address the potential impact of curcumin or other lifestyle factors like exercise.
- (C) Option (C) presents a plausible alternative explanation—people who consume curcumin may also be more likely to exercise, which could account for their lower likelihood of being diagnosed with COVID-19.
- (D) Option (D) does not directly weaken the argument, as it discusses recovery rates rather than the likelihood of being diagnosed.
Step 2: Conclusion.
Option (C) introduces the possibility that exercise, not curcumin, could be the factor reducing the likelihood of diagnosis, which weakens the argument.
Final Answer: (C) The participants who consumed curcumin were also more likely to exercise than those who did not.