Counterarguments
Definition
A counterargument involves
acknowledging standpoints that go
against your argument and then reaffirming your argument.
This is typically done by stating the
opposing side’s argument, and then
ultimately presenting your argument
as the most logical solution.
Three Steps
Respectfully acknowledge
evidence or standpoints that
differ from your argument.
Refute the stance of opposing
arguments, typically utilizing
words like “although” or
“however.”
In the refutation, you want to
show the reader why your
position is more correct than
the opposing idea.
Placement
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Can be placed within the introductory
paragraph to create a contrast for the
thesis statement.
May consist of a whole paragraph that
acknowledges the opposing view and then
refutes it.
Can be one sentence acknowledgements
of other opinions followed by a refutation.
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Why Use?
Some students worry that using a counterargument will
take away from their overall argument, but a
counterargument may make an essay more
persuasive because it shows that the writer has
considered multiple sides of the issue
Examples
Argument against smoking on campus: Admittedly, many
students would like to smoke on campus. Some people may
rightly argue that if smoking on campus is not illegal, then it
should be permitted; however, second-hand smoke may cause
harm to those who have health issues like asthma, possibly
putting them at risk.
Argument against animal testing: Some people argue that
using animals as test subjects for health products is justifiable.
To be fair, animal testing has been used in the past to aid the
development of several vaccines, such as small pox and rabies.
However, animal testing for beauty products causes unneeded
pain to animals. There are alternatives to animal testing.
Instead of using animals, it is possible to use human
volunteers. Additionally, Carl Westmoreland (2006) suggests
that alternative methods to animal research are being
developed; for example, researchers are able to use skin
constructed from cells to test cosmetics. If alternatives to
animal testing exist, then the practice causes unnecessary
animal suffering and should not be used.
Evaluation Usage
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While counterarguments are more commonly associated with
argumentative papers, their usage in evaluations allow for the writer
to address the possible opinions other viewers might have had about
the same subject.
For your paper, you need to consider the criteria you have decided
on while also considering how someone else viewed that subject,
either positively or negatively. For example, if you have a positive
view on a movie, consider the fact that other people who saw the
same movie might have a negative view on it.
You need to address the negative opinions on it, refuting their
arguments while also bolstering your own.