True/False/Can't Tell — Philosophical & Ethical Passages

This practice set uses passages about philosophy, ethics, moral reasoning, and abstract ideas. These are among the most challenging UCAT VR passages because they deal with arguments and viewpoints rather than straightforward facts.

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Quick-Reference Strategy

1. Read the statement first. Identify whose view is being described (the author's, a philosopher's, a critic's).
2. Scan for the relevant argument. Philosophical passages often present multiple positions — find the right one.
3. Compare carefully. Does the passage attribute this view to the right person? Does it support the claim or merely mention it?
4. Do not evaluate the argument. You are not asked whether the philosophical position is correct — only whether the passage supports the statement.

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Focus Notes for Philosophical & Ethical Passages

These passages often contain:

• Multiple positions — "Utilitarians argue X, while deontologists argue Y." Make sure you attribute the right view to the right school of thought.
• Abstract language — "inherent value," "moral obligation," "the greater good." Read these carefully; they have precise meanings in context.
• Conditional claims — "If X is true, then Y follows." The passage may present this as a hypothetical, not a fact.
• Author's stance vs reported views — Does the author agree with the position, or merely describe it?

Common Traps

Trap	Example
Misattribution	Passage says "Kant argued X"; statement says "the author believes X"
Conditional as fact	Passage says "if we accept X"; statement says "X is true"
Evaluating the argument	You think the ethical position is wrong, but the passage supports the statement
Conflating views	Two philosophers are mentioned; statement attributes one's view to the other

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Approach Each Question

Read the passage excerpt and statement. Determine True, False, or Can't Tell based solely on the passage. Do not evaluate whether the philosophical position is correct — only whether the passage supports the statement about it.