So, you want to start a discussion.
Maybe you want to convince me that my avatar/account is blasphemous and that I should take it down.
Maybe you want to prove that there is a God, and/or that your God is the one true God.
You could try to persuade me that abortion is murder, or that homosexuals shouldn't be allowed to marry.
Whatever it is, I'm game, but under a few reasonable conditions.
All of these conditions go both ways, so you can expect me to abide by the same guidelines.
1. If you don't know what my position on something is, ask. There's no point in arguing with me against something I never believed in the first place.
2. Try to be civil. I'll grant as much respect for your side as you offer mine.
3. When asked a question, please try your best to answer it.
If you skip a question I've asked, I'll give you the benefit of the doubt and redirect you toward it.
If the question still isn't addressed, I can only assume you're ignoring it and will continue to pursue it.
In other words: answer a question in the first place. It makes it easier on both of us.
4. Don't accuse me of being closed minded. Just because I don't find *your* argument persuasive doesn't mean I cannot be persuaded.
5. Don't block me in attempt to get the last word and claim victory. If you have nothing more to add to a discussion, the mature thing to do is to admit it.
6. There is no shame in saying "I don't know." There is plenty of shame in pretending to know.
7. When using figures or statistics, cite your source(s).
8. When trying to make a point, avoid doing so by asking a variety of questions until you get the answer you desire. It's frustrating for the recipient who just wants to know what you're trying to prove. Whenever possible, simply state your point and provide supporting arguments.
I understand that questions *can* be used as a valuable demonstration, but only do so when necessary.
This list is expanding with experiences, but hopefully this should be enough to get the general premise.
When you're ready, PM me with the topic you want to discuss.
Thank you.
 l am Jesus Christ · Fri Jul 15, 2011 @ 11:06pm · 0 Comments |
