a. Only adult citizens can vote and Peter is not a citizen. So, he can’t vote.
- This is an argument. The conclusion is "Peter can't vote," supported by the premise that Peter is not a citizen and only citizens can vote.
b. We must begin to develop alternative energy sources, for our existence as an autonomous nation is at stake.
- This is also an argument. The conclusion is "We must begin to develop alternative energy sources," supported by the premise that national autonomy is at stake.
c. Heather couldn’t have come to the party because she was with her boyfriend and whenever she’s with him, she doesn’t socialize.
- This is an argument. The conclusion is "Heather couldn’t have come to the party," supported by the premises about her behavior when she’s with her boyfriend.
d. Surely Joe must be wealthy. Isn’t everyone who lives in Beverly Hills?
- This is an argument. The conclusion is "Joe must be wealthy," supported by the (possibly flawed) premise that everyone who lives in Beverly Hills is wealthy.
e. Since the Gulf War, this committee has been in existence.
- This is not an argument. It’s simply a factual statement with no conclusion or reasoning given to support it.
Thus, the correct answer is e. Since the Gulf War, this committee has been in existence.
