Counter-Premise Indicators Counter-Premise Indicators: • A premise that actually contains an idea that is counter to the argument and would generally weaken it. ○ By raising a counter-premise and then addressing the complain, the author can eliminate a possible future line of attack against the argument and minimize the damage that would be done by the objection if it were raised elsewhere. • Ideas that compare and contrast with the argument, or work against a previously raised point. ○ The general counter-premise concept discusses an idea that is in some way different from another part of the argument • The author will usually indicate that the counter-premise is not relevant or is outweighed by other considerations. ○ The counter-premise is not integral to the authors argument structure Counter Premise Indicators But Yet However On the other hand Admittedly In contrast Although Even though Still Whereas In spite of Despite After all • After all can sometimes appear on multiple indicator lists because the phrase Despite After all • After all can sometimes appear on multiple indicator lists because the phrase can be used in a variety of ways Example: The United States prison population is the world's largest and consequently we must take steps to reduce crime in this country. Although other countries have higher rates of incarceration their statistics have no bearing on the dilemma we currently face. • Premise: The United States prison population is the world's largest • Conclusion: Consequently we must take steps to reduce crime in this country • Counter Premise: Although other countries have higher rates of incarceration their statistics have no bearing on the dilemma we currently face

Logical Reasoning: Counter-Premise Indicators

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