Things to Remember in Debates

I’ve been involved in many debates here around OTF recently, and seen some concerning behaviors. So here we are.

Debating isn’t just about getting your point across: it must be done respectfully.

Here are some things to remember:

1. Remain calm. You can disagree with someone without being a jerk to them, simple as that, which leads to the next point:
2. Insults aren’t arguments. I do admit that I was guilty of breaking this once, but seriously, don’t launch nuclear warhead-level insults. Not only are you potentially hurting the opposing side, and not only are they not meaningful things to say, but this also proves that you’re out of arguments to make.
3. Autism doesn’t make you stupid. I mean, come on. I’ve seen the term autism thrown around as a synonym of stupidity, and frankly, I’m sick of it. Not only is it ableist, but it’s also factually wrong.
4. People disagreeing with you doesn’t make them trolls. Oh my God, just because they have a controversial opinion doesn’t mean they’re rage-baiting. Let’s take @veryverystern as an example. Yeah, they were being kind of a jerk, but they made valid points. “I’m not gonna give you attention” just translates to “you’re wrong, therefore you’re a troll”, and “I don’t have any comebacks”.
5. Fallacies don’t get you anywhere. Just… read up. Some common fallacies to watch out for are “you’re wrong, therefore I’m right”, cum hoc ergo propter hoc, and argument from incredulity.
6. Acknowledge that the opposition has a point. Otherwise, you’re just kind of close-minded. If the other side makes a valid point you can’t respond to, acknowledge that. Otherwise you’re just a brick wall and kind of not worth it to interact with.
7. Question yourself. You might be wrong…
8. Use correct grammar and orthography. Don’t forget to punctuate! Not following these rules makes it harder for others to read. And also jarring. Commas are the best.
9. Debates aren’t inherently a bad thing. 

And that is all! Thank you for reading this far. Please tell me if you think other considerations should be added to the list.

👍

Let's leave debates to debate forums like global warming and science of biological evolution

Great thread! I think this is good to raise awareness upon the OTF community so we can all better ourselves.

One thing I would add is that you can calmy disagree with someone and leave them alone.

Thank you! I’ll be sure to add that.

Thanks muffin! This is one of those rare threads that should be pinned for awareness

I know only mods can pin threads, but this is one that all users should read before starting a debate.

I’m glad you like it!

I now know what not to do in a debate, thanks Chip!

god

This is what we need more of in this place, glad I read this thread.

Yes. Perfect advice.

Quick tip, do not debate @veryverystern. He is a BRICK WALL. He will not listen to you.

The fallacy part of your post reminded me of this video.

I don't believe that I'll ever be able to memorize all of the fallacies that exist but I still think it's important to know some of the most common ones.

Where did this nobody come from?

And at what times is he most active?

I debated him for 4 hours yesterday. I talked him in circles fr 4 hours and he would not listen to a single thing I said. He's a troll.