Author Topic: Discussion and Debate  (Read 31 times)

BrynP

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Discussion and Debate
« on: February 15, 2012, 03:16:34 pm »
a. No strawmen. A strawman argument will likely cause irritation and could lead to something inflammatory. If you do not understand something ask, don't try to make assumptions about the other person.

b. No goal post shifting. If you shift your goal posts mid-argument then it is an unfair discourse. If your mind is changed about certain points, maybe you've realised a previous point wasn't quite as accurate then state this so the person you're talking to doesn't draw on previous points you've made.

c. Nobody is like Hitler, not unless they start arguing from the standpoint of Nazism. Avoid using the "that's like Nazism" fallacy. If you think something is detestable, say why, but don't try to insult the person. If it's difficult to do so, just leave the discussion.

d. Remember. Be respectful. You can share your opinions, but remember people have their own, even if they contradict what you might view as undeniable fact.

e. No evasiveness. Evading somebody's point in a discussion will likely cause tension and of course would waste their time. Now, if you're overwhelmed state so, but try to address people's points. If you do not have an answer be aware that doesn't mean you've lost the discussion. Just say you don't have an answer.

f. Be Honest. Some people are good at seeing when somebody's dishonest, so save the fights and be straight with people. If your knowledge is limited, it's not a crime, heck there might be people willing to help you and expand your knowledge on a particularly topic. Again, if the topic is overwhelming, you are welcome to back down, there's no point trying to argue a point when you're not in a position to back it up.

g. Make an objective statement, prepare to back it up. "9 out of 10 Britons don't know the colour of Mars", be sure to know where you got that piece of information. Be aware not every source is reliable and you may find yourself discussing the validity of your source. If you don't have a source, then understand that people will remain sceptical. The line, "I am an honest person, I wouldn't lie to you" won't cut it, because you could have 2 honest people who would never lie saying opposite things, religion and politics is like that.

h. No Proselytising. This is not a place to preach or even try to force your views onto anybody else. This can apply to your political views too, "Join the Apathy Party!" Preaching is not exclusive to religion.

i. Moderation will not make decisions based on somebody's beliefs. Although I am an atheist, no decisions will be made because I agree with what a certain atheist says, if that atheist is throwing strawmen at you or is being disrespectful and I witness it, I will take action. Moderation is neutral.

j. Discussion and Debate topics are not exempt from other forum rules
« Last Edit: February 16, 2012, 12:03:12 am by BrynP »
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