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Claim vs. Counterclaim in Argumentation

Claim

Ultimate Goal

What is an argument?

Incorporating the Counter-Claim into your own argument

Overview of the Debate

Claim = Position or point of view that is backed up by evidence.

Myth

Support

An argument is just people yelling at each other

Reality

True arguments are supposed to be very calm. Arguments in writing are silent.

Myth

You have to totally believe what you are arguing.

Claims always need to be supported by warrants (reasons) and evidence.

Reality

True argument has nothing to do with how you feel.

Myth

Every argument has a right or a wrong side.

School uniforms are needed in middle schools.

Reality

(Claim) Students should not have to go to school on Saturday because

Most of the time, the two sides of an argument are just different points of view. Neither side is really right or wrong.

(Warrant 1) students need rest,

The legal driving age should be 18.

(Warrant 2) some students have jobs, and

(Warrant 3) family time is important.

Counterclaim

Cats make better pets than dogs.

Not an Argument

Counterclaim = The opposite position of your position or point of view.

School uniforms are NOT needed in middle schools.

The legal driving age should NOT be 18.

Cats do NOT make better pets than dogs.

Claim vs. Counterclaim

Addressing the counter-argument is called a Refutation. You refute, or argue against, the other side.

The Refutation can be an excellent persuasive technique:

  • It makes you look like you're well thought-out because you've thought about both sides of the argument

  • Your audience might have doubts about what you have to say, and it helps get rid of those by tearing down the other side

Why do you need the counterclaim?

"Argument Clinic" from Monty Python's Flying Circus

A good argument acknowledges or even argues against the opposite side, the counter-claim. Why do you think it is important to address the opposing side?

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