Writing Composition: Counter Arguments in Essays

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Ivan Thu, Mar 03, 2022 10:26 PM UTC

Addressing alternative viewpoints can help build a convincing argument. This can demonstrate a deeper understanding of the material and show that you have looked at multiple perspectives.

1. COUNTER ARGUMENTS
Examining Counter Arguments
Addressing alternative viewpoints can help build a convincing argument. This can
demonstrate a deeper understanding of the material and show that you have looked at
multiple perspectives. This shows that you have come to an informed decision, demon-
strating your credibility.
An example of a counter argument is the debate about the origins of the Universe. Scientists
show that the world was created billions of years ago, although this is debated amongst
followers of religion who claim it is merely thousands of years old.
Offering Counter Arguments
Counter arguments may be found in various locations throughout your essay. You may
choose to:
- Build points as a contrast to oppositional claims.
- Offer a counter argument after you have articulated your main claims.
- You can also reject the counter argument and explain why it was mis-
taken.
TOP TIP
It is important to remember to leave your reader with a sense that your argument
is stronger than opposing arguments. You can concede that your opponent has a point
but explain why your audience should nonetheless accept the validity of your argument.
How to Present Counter Arguments
It is usually better to consider only 1-2 serious counter arguments in some depth, ra-
ther than to give a long but superficial list of many different counter arguments and re-
plies. Ensure that the counter arguments you include link and are consistent with your
original argument. If discussing a counter argument changes your position, go back
and reconsider your original argument, revise it accordingly.

2. TOP TIP
Including a counter argument shows that you have thought things through, and
allows you to dispose of some of the reasons your audience might have for not accepting
your argument.
Conceding to some of your opposition’s concerns can demonstrate respect for their
opinions. When doing this, it is important to remain tactful, yet firm. When summaris-
ing opposing arguments present a fair and objective review. You want to show that you
have seriously considered all sides of the issue and that you are not simply attacking your
Useful links
- Harvard College Writing Center, ‘Counterargument’, Available at: https://writ-
ingcenter.fas.harvard.edu/pages/counter-argument
- University of Sussex, Skills Hub, ‘Counter-arguments’, Available at: http://www.sus-
sex.ac.uk/skillshub/?id=395&site=normal
- George Mason University,m The Writing Centre, ‘All about Counterarguments’,
Available at: https://writingcenter.gmu.edu/guides/all-about-counterarguments
Other Relevant Online PDFs
- How to Write an Essay
- Paragraph Structure
- Critical Reading
- Critical Thinking
- Evidence & Incorporating Research
- How to Build an Academic Argument

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