PrepTest 149 · Section 4 · Question 13

Piano or Soccer?

Frankie and Sharon were debating again. "You should practice piano every day," Frankie said, "as long as it does not eat your whole afternoon. Kids who can play music have way more fun at parties than kids who just sit there." Sharon shook her head. "Forget piano. Spend that time passing the ball with your team. Teammates remember who helped them, and they will pass to you when you are open." Lulu wrote both reasons on her clipboard. "You disagree about what to do," she said. "But look at your reasons. Frankie says piano makes your life more fun. Sharon says soccer gets you passes later. Both of you are saying: pick what pays off for you." Frankie and Sharon were shocked to agree on something.

Frankie: You should practice piano daily, as long as it does not take over your afternoon, since kids who play music have more fun at parties. Sharon: You should practice passing with your team instead, since teammates will remember your help and pass to you later.

Which principle, if accepted, gives the strongest backing to Frankie's reasoning and to Sharon's reasoning alike?

The Case of the Two Gardeners

Two neighbors sued each other over advice they had given a new homeowner. One said, "Plant roses, because a pretty yard makes your days happier." The other said, "Plant tomatoes, because neighbors who get free tomatoes will lend you their tools." The judge asked Mr. Whitfield to find a rule that could support both. He hooked his thumbs in his suspenders. "Your Honor, they disagree about plants, but not about why. Each says: do what will benefit you. Happier days for one, borrowed tools for the other." The judge smiled. "So one principle holds up both arguments. Case dismissed, and somebody please bring me a tomato."