As an action verb because its an action
I oppose Kaepernick's actions because he could do so many other beneficial things besides just sit down. He could donate to a multitude of organizations, etc. However, I support his cause.
As such, the mafia is a counterculture.
Take into consideration the counterculture of the 60s - the hippie culture who opposed wars and fought the government in a peaceful way. They wanted to change the society for the better by opposing those in power. Mafia, on the other hand, opposes the entire society, but is still an example of counterculture.
If it's just a random thesis:
Topic: Dog Fights
Thesis: Dog fights should be illegal, since they are a cruel way to abuse dogs for profit.
Opposing Thesis: Dog fights are entartaining, and should be continued.
Imager is the way a writer uses language that appeals to senses.
