Crafting Your Counterargument and Rebuttal Paragraph(s)

Step 1: Counterarguments/ Concession Statement Create a list of oppositions to your argument, reasons why others oppose your opinion. Then, narrow the list down to the main two or three reasons against your argument. For example, if you are arguing that we must ban SeaLand because of its unethical treatment of animals, some opposing views are: SeaLand cares for animals who have been injured in the wild SeaLand contributes millions of dollars to wildlife foundations Sea World provides fun, family entertainment to millions of people

Step 1: Counterarguments/ Concession Statement A good way to begin your counterargument paragraph is with a concession statement. A concession statement acknowledges the opposition’s main idea. Begin with a phrase that lets the reader know it is an opposing view and not your own, e.g. “Some may claim…” or “Others may believe…”. Concession example: Many SeaLand proponents believe that the theme park benefits animals because it provides millions of dollars to wildlife foundations.

Step 2: Refutation Argue back—refute! State your logical argument, refuting that opposing idea. Begin with a transition word that shows contrast (e.g. however, on the contrary, yet, nonetheless, in contrast, etc.). Refutation example: However, what they don’t tell the public is that these wildlife foundations are actually organizations that funnel the money back into SeaLand—so actually, SeaLand appears to be donating to charity, but it is actually simply donating to itself.

Step 3: Incorporate a Quote Incorporate a quote to support your refutation. Example: In fact, according to animal activist and author Tim Bradshaw, “26% of the money donated to so-called non-profit animal organizations during 2010-2011 was directly redistributed to the pockets of SeaLand executives” (121).

Step 4: Discuss the Quote Provide commentary about the quote. Interpret and explain how the quote defends your refutation. (This should be a minimum of two sentences.) Commentary Example: Thus, SeaLand is lying to the public about its donations—the money does not benefit wildlife; rather, it further bolsters the lives of SeaLand’s chief executives. This is unethical and illegal behavior that is going unpunished. Society must shine light on this abuse, for the sake of the animals and for that of moral justice.