When you encounter a strong opposing view, which action is recommended?

• A. Dismiss it entirely
• B. Acknowledge opposing view, evaluate its strength, adjust your thesis or reasoning accordingly; provide a rebuttal
• C. Ignore it
• D. Copy it word-for-word

Answer: (B)

When you encounter a strong opposing view, the best move is to acknowledge it, weigh its evidence, adjust your thesis or reasoning accordingly, and then present a well-reasoned rebuttal. This approach shows you’ve honestly considered other perspectives, which strengthens your own argument by testing it against real objections. It helps clarify why your position still holds and makes your writing more credible and persuasive because you’re engaging with the evidence rather than avoiding it. It also helps you refine your thesis so it’s robust, not easily toppled by counterarguments.

Dismissing opposing views signals you haven’t tested your ideas against real evidence, and ignoring them leaves your reader with a one-sided picture. Copying someone else’s words or ideas without proper attribution undermines your integrity and weakens your own analysis.