If two
people disagree on an important issue, they can argue, discuss, or debate.
Much of the
debates we hear are poor examples of convincing arguments.
For
example, "You're ugly," is not an argument; it's an insult. By
insulting an opponent you may bring a chuckle to the lips of your people who
agree with your position, but it will not convince others that you are correct
in what you say. Rather, it makes people angry, and when they get angry, some
people's logic processor shuts down.
"That's
the way you people are," insults your family and friends, inflames and
angers rather than convinces.
The purpose
of debate is not to punish with words, or show an opponent as stupid by
stinging him with well-chosen words. Debate is to convince others that your
position is correct. Insults and ridicule are counterproductive.
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