The Counter ArgumentWhat is it?

Why should I use it?

How do I use it?

When do I use it?

Examples / practiceProf. Rich LauriaPCCC ESL Dept.

ENW-107

What is it?It’s when you bring up arguments that are against your position.

Basically, these are the arguments that you would use if you were writing the opposite paper (“for” instead of “against”).

For example, if you are talking about why spanking is not a good way to discipline children, you would mention why spanking is a good way to discipline children.

Why would I do that?Bringing up the main points of the opposing view allows you to be seen as a more reliable author.

By being honest about the merits of a different position, you are being more honest with your reader than if you just ignored those valid points the “other” side has.

For example, many of you wrote against spanking. “Please hit your children!” sounds terrible, but no parent will deny the effectiveness of a quick smack. By including that in your paper, you are using the opposite position to further your own point.

How do I use it?You briefly mention a point that supports the other side of the argument. Then, you dismiss this idea.

For example, if you are talking about why spanking is not a good way to discipline children, you would mention why spanking is a good way to discipline children. Then, you give a reason how this counter point helps your position.

Consider this example: “While it’s true that spanking causes physical pain, this is considerably less painful than they would experience if they were hit in an effort to prevent them from putting their hands on a stove.”

Consider these sentences

While it is true that ..., this doesn’t account for…

There is some truth to the argument ... However, …

The argument against this position has some validity in that...

Even if it’s true that ..., ... (my point is way better).

Some research claims that ..., but in fact ...

Critics of (this position) say..., but they fail to consider...

There are two main places to use the counter argument: one is embedded within a body paragraph and the other is as a separate paragraph.

I recommend that you use the counter argument as a separate paragraph. This way, it will be your 3rd body paragraph (making your whole essay 5 paragraphs long).

This paragraph should be after your 2 supporting paragraphs and before your conclusion.

When do I use it?

This paragraph doesn’t have to be as long or as well developed as your other body paragraphs. Remember, you aren’t arguing for the other side, so you don’t want to overdo it.

Bring up the opposite point in a sentence or two, then clearly dismiss it in a sentence or two.

Consider the example from your writing 004 textbooks. Take a few minutes to read the handout and see how the counter argument fits into the overall essay.

Example

Practice

Now it’s your turn.

• Pick one of the topics that we’ve already discussed in class (sex education, year round school or spanking). Write your counter argument paragraph now.

When you are finished, share your paragraph with your neighbor. Decide which one is more effective.

Sources“Argument.” UNC Writing Center Handout. http://www.unc.edu/depts/wcweb/handouts/argument.html

“Counter-Argument.” http://assma-twt.weebly.com/uploads/4/2/1/5/4215974/counter-argument.ppt

“Counter Argument.” Revelle College: UC San Diego. http://revelle.ucsd.edu/humanities/writing-info/counterargument.html

“What is a Counter Argument?” http://www.shoreline.edu/doldham/101/HTML/What%20is%20a%20C-A.htm

Folse, K., Muchmore-Vokoun, A., Solomon, E.V. “The School Uniform Question.” Example Essay 19. Great Writing 4: Great Essays, Third Edition. Boston: Heinle, Cengage Learning: Boston. 2010 .