In an argumentative essay, what is the primary structural function of a concession followed by a rebuttal?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Acknowledging opposing validity before demonstrating why the primary thesis holds
- Step 1: Understand the tactical purpose of refutation in persuasive academic writing.
- Step 2: Granting a concession shows fair-mindedness; immediately rebutting it strengthens the writer's thesis by proactively resolving potential reader objections.
Answer
Acknowledging opposing validity before demonstrating why the primary thesis holds.
Why not the others: Concessions aim to persuade rather than confuse; they defend rather than abandon the thesis; they introduce genuine dialectical substance.
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