Using Concession to Build Ethos
You want something from your parent or guardian.
You know that begging won't do it.
You build up arguments you will use.
You realize there will be objections.
Anticipating objections you build concessions.
This helps your audience (the parent) see that you are seeing things from both angles, that you have thought about the issue, that you are determined and informed.
An example:
"Dad, do you have a minute? Good. You know I have been studying quite hard lately and that my grades are the highest I have ever achieved at Skyine. My chores are in good order and I have been saving my money consistently. Since I have been behaving so responsibly, I think it is time we talk about getting a car for me to drive. (Concession) I know this is coming up fast and that you feel strongly about the idea, but can we review my reasons and the benefits to you before you consider your answer? (Of course, Dad has probably said "no" three times by now, but you are building ethos all the while.)
In a debate, concession helps you to take control of the topic and to define the argument. You will often introduce an argument by giving a concession: My worthy opponent will probably argue that coastal oil drilling could despoil the beautiful beaches we have here, and it is difficult to guarantee there will never be even a small chance that one or two beaches might be affected; we agree. It could happen. However, with modern cleanup techniques, a dedicated and well funded natural resources department and prepared and effective regulation of the drilling and transportation, we and our children will be enjoying California's pristine beaches from centuries to come.
You concede part of the point, but have already countered the argument and controlled the debate.
