Everyone should replace the meat that they eat with fish because fish is a healthier choice. Fish is high in protein, as well as a wide range of vitamins and minerals, and very low in unhealthy fats. In fact, the American Heart Association, one of the nation’s largest health charities, recommends eating at least two servings of fish per week.

Question

A student is developing a counterclaim to this argument. Which counterclaim is the most fair and effective?

A. People should avoid fish because studies have shown that people who eat fish regularly have a 22 percent higher risk of skin cancer.

B. People should avoid fish because the fish are treated cruelly from the moment they are caught until they are brought to market.

C. Workers in the fishing industries are badly mistreated, and if you eat fish then you are supporting this horrible and unethical industry.

D. Some large fish such as grouper and bluefin tuna are known to have elevated levels of mercury, and consuming them in excessive amounts can cause a wide range of health problems.

Answer 1

The most fair and effective counterclaim to the argument that everyone should replace meat with fish because it is a healthier choice is:

D. Some large fish such as grouper and bluefin tuna are known to have elevated levels of mercury, and consuming them in excessive amounts can cause a wide range of health problems.

This counterclaim provides a specific health concern related to fish consumption, which directly challenges the idea that fish is an unequivocally healthier choice. It presents a nuanced view by acknowledging that while fish can be healthy, certain types can also pose health risks, making it a well-rounded counterpoint. Additionally, it does not dismiss the value of fish entirely but rather highlights important considerations for consumers.