Question

read the claim and counterclaim.
claim: sugary drinks such as soda should be taxed at a higher rate than other drinks to discourage people from making unhealthy choices.
counterclaim: increasing the price of sugary drinks will not decrease the amount of people who buy and drink them.
which is the most effective rebuttal to this counterclaim?
studies have shown that if the price of sugary drinks increased by 10 percent, sales would decrease by 10–12 percent.
people have the right to make their own decisions when it comes to what food and drinks they consume.
research has shown that persuading people to make healthier choices is about education, not raising prices to try to force a different choice.
although individual choice is important, increasing the price of sugary drinks will have an overall positive effect on our health.

Explanation:

The counterclaim states that raising sugary drink prices won't reduce consumption. The most effective rebuttal directly contradicts this with empirical evidence showing price increases do lower sales. The first option provides specific, data-backed proof that a 10% price hike leads to a 10-12% drop in sales, directly addressing the counterclaim. The other options focus on individual choice, education, or general health benefits, which do not directly refute the claim that price increases don't reduce consumption.

Answer:

A. Studies have shown that if the price of sugary drinks increased by 10 percent, sales would decrease by 10–12 percent.