Charlie - posted on 05/02/2010 ( 39 moms have responded )
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We all get very passionate at times when debating subjects close to our hearts but what is debate ?
What etiquette should we follow on an online forum ?
Should posts and opinion be backed up with facts ?
What is your understanding of online debate ?
Here is the definition of debate :Debate or debating is a formal method of interactive and representational argument. Debate is a broad form of argument . Though logical consistency, factual accuracy and some degree of emotional appeal to the audience are important elements of the art of persuasion, in debating, one side often prevails over the other side by presenting a superior "context" and/or framework of the issue, which is far more subtle and strategic.
Here are some of my own thoughts on etiquette :
if a person wants to argue or debate, she must have their facts straight and not mixed up with generalisations or hearsay.
attack the idea, not the person , unfortunately some people cannot differentiate between the two , unfortunately online, (and in real life) many people perceive an attack on their ideas or premise as an attack on them personally. Finding, and using a weakness in one's argument is a key debate tactic - that usually makes the less experienced debater's heads explode , if you do not know the difference for the love of green apples ( thanks Krista ) LEARN .
People may insult you or your viewpoint Opinions are like assholes , everybody has one. Look at it all from a distance and keep a passive attitude at all costs.
Retaliation with words is rarely a good move, but I believe there is a time to defend yourself harshly. If it is an extremely offensive remark, let the admins know. If they do nothing, get over it, it’s not your forum. You can always leave.
There are people who refuse to understand or admit they do not understand debate on every forum, learn who they are as fast as possible and then take them with a grain of salt , no effort made on their part to learn means no effort in reading their posts .
Try to say more positive things than negative things. All humans want to be around positive energy. The best way to make friends off or online is to do things for them, make their day better because they talked to you.
If the conversation gets to you physically it’s time for a walk, ie; increased heartbeat, irritability, etc.
Read the message, but don't respond right away. Sometimes when we are angry, we misunderstand what a person really means. Go to another site, or go away from the computer for a few minutes or hours. Listen to your favorite music, or watch a funny show. When you've calmed down, go back and try to re-read the message calmly.
After you have re-read the message calmly, if you want to respond, do so. Try your best not to sound angry.
After you have typed your message, leave it for a minute or two before you hit send. Read what you have said and see how it sounds.
Again and this is SO important , try not to take things personally. Let it roll.
If you insult someone unintentionally, apologize.
And the most important thing to remember and possibly the one that bugs me the most , expecting everyone online to agree with you is unreasonable , debate includes discussions from two or more sides , dont like hearing opposing views ? then debate isnt for you , if you disagree with a person respond with a solid case on your "sides " behalf , dont throw cyber tantrums we are all mums and see enough of those in real life .
Does anyone have anything to add to that or perhaps you would like to debate my ideas , feel free we can all learn from each other .
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