📊 GMAT Exam Prep

A local survey found that 80% of residents support the new public library project. Therefore, the mayor should proceed with the project, as it clearly has strong community backing. However, the survey was conducted exclusively at the annual Book Lovers' Fair. Which of the following statements, if true, most clearly exposes a flaw in the argument's reasoning?

A The Book Lovers' Fair attracts attendees from across the entire metropolitan area, not just local residents.
B Funding for the new library project relies heavily on state grants, not just local taxes.
C Other public projects proposed in the past received less than 50% support in similar surveys.
D People who attend book fairs are generally more enthusiastic about libraries than the general population.

✓ Correct Answer: Option D

The argument generalizes from a specific sample (book fair attendees) to the entire community. Option D exposes a sampling bias by explaining why this particular sample is unrepresentative, thus undermining the argument's conclusion about community backing.

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