PrepTest 132, Section 3, Question 21
Computers have long been utilized in the sphere(437 more words not shown)
Which one of the following(9 more words not shown)
- AAttempts to model(20 more words not shown)
- BDespite signs of(18 more words not shown)
- CCase-based computer systems(15 more words not shown)
- DComputers applying artificial(16 more words not shown)
- EUsing computers can(25 more words not shown)
Reading the passage
We've already predicted the main point: these legal reasoning programs fall short because the work requires interpretation and judgment. The answer may name the two specific difficulties rather than use our word judgment.
Working the answers
- ACorrect
This captures both the failure and its explanation. Rule-based systems struggle to interpret legal language, and case-based systems cannot independently identify which similarities make a precedent relevant. Those are the two problems developed after the opening assessment.
- B
This expands the criticism to computer programs generally. The opening explicitly mentions established uses such as word processing and research. The criticism concerns automated legal reasoning, not the usefulness of every program a legal professional uses.
- C
The second approach also has a serious limitation. The author doesn't establish that case-based systems are vastly superior to rule-based ones.
- D
This reverses the emphasis. The author explains why optimistic predictions haven't been met and why substantial difficulties remain, rather than forecasting a revolution in the near future.
- E
This lists benefits computers might provide. It doesn't capture the central claim that the attempts to automate legal reasoning have fallen short, or explain why. Familiar legal-computing topics don't make it the main point.
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