My Debating Commandments
I often find myself debating a wide variety of topics. More than occasionally, I find that my opponent in a debate will violate some basic rules I apply to myself. I've decided to codify my personal rules for debating:
- Although I may disagree with others' beliefs or perspectives, I will respect their rights to hold these beliefs unless they are used to harm, harass or oppress.
- When engaged in debate, I will argue against ideas, not people.
- I will not respond with violence or threats of violence.
- My words and ideals will be reflected in my daily affairs.
- Whenever and wherever possible, I will support my statements with concrete, independently verifiable evidence.
- I will not confuse opinion with fact.
- When citing a source, I will not use selections designed to misrepresent the intent of the author.
- If the opposing side in a debate concedes a point, I will not belabor that point nor will I consider it to make their entire position invalid.
- I will try to remember at all times that although my opponent may not be right, I might be wrong and that there may be alternatives that neither of us has considered.
- I must accept that silencing an opponent doesn't mean that he/she has been convinced.