Question

Why does the writer not want to spend much time on an opposing viewpoint? Why mention that viewpoint at all? How might a concession help or hinder the main claim of the essay (the thesis)? What are some opposing viewpoints you might include in your definition essay?

Answer 1

• While writing the paper, it is important for the writer to present both supporting and opposing viewpoints, but the writer should not spend much time on opposing argument. Being familiar with opposing viewpoints helps in strengthening the power of the supporting arguments and thereby the understanding of the writer while presenting the viewpoints becomes clearer.
• In academic essays, the thesis statement is the heart of your argument: It tells readers exactly what your paper will discuss and what position you’ll take on the topic. Some thesis statements include concessions, which are statements that acknowledge a different, valid perspective on the topic or that admit that your argument doesn’t address certain concerns related to the topic.
• Concessions, also called “concessive clauses,” usually begin with a concession word or phrase such as “although,” “even though,” “regardless of,” “while” or “despite,” etc.
  
• For example, a thesis statement that follows a concession might read, “Although coal mining creates thousands of jobs in the United States, the environmental costs of coal mining outweigh its economic benefits.” Another way to present a concession is to state the concession as a fact, then to use a contrasting conjunction when you state your own thesis: “Coal mining does create thousands of jobs in the United States; yet, the environmental costs of coal mining outweigh its economic benefits.”
• It is often important to make a concession to the other side to make your argument stronger—that is, rather than acting like another side of your argument does not exist, you address it and “debunk” it. In fact, in an argument paper, presenting the other side and then “tearing it apart” can often be a very effective strategy. Conceding to some of your opposition’s concerns can demonstrate respect for their opinion. Making concessions also demonstrates your ability as a writer by showing that you have researched and considered you argument from multiple perspectives in order to come to an informed decision.
• Rather than weakening the paper, a good concession paragraph will actually strengthen the essay by showing that the writer has thoughtfully considered both sides of the argument before arriving at the final argumentative position.
• When you make a concession, you actually give in to part of the other persons objections or views. You admit that he is half right, perhaps, or that he has a valid concern. Then you overcome that concern by logic and/or a solution. If you cannot find any objections or concessions, then you are probably not writing an argumentative paper.
  
• example;Concession Paragraph From an Essay Supporting School Uniforms:-Admittedly, there are solid arguments in opposition to school uniforms. Many students express themselves with their clothing, and they find uniforms to be an intrusion on their freedom of expression. It's true that school uniforms would limit students' ability to express their individuality. And one cannot deny that in the real world, outside of school, people are free to dress as they choose. Still, there are many reasons why uniforms would make Floyd Dryden a better school.
• Concession Paragraph From an Essay Opposing School Uniforms:-Opposing views claim that school uniforms would reduce bullying and teasing. One cannot deny that students are often judged for the clothes they wear. Furthermore, it is often argued that school uniforms help with school pride. Admittedly, some school that have instituted a uniform policy have seen academic performances improve. Despite these points, there are many good reasons to oppose school uniforms.