Which best explains why counterclaims are included in an argumentative essay?

to restate the main claim

to provide data and evidence

to address opposing views

to persuade the reader

To address opposing views

Counterclaims are included in argumentative essays to adress the opposing views and therefore, successfully persuade reader on the credibility of the main claim. By adressing the possible arguments that the reader might come up with and rebut them, the main claim on which the essay is based gains credibility.