====Address the Point, Not the Person, When Having a Debate=== Sometimes we find ourselves in a serious discussion, debate, or argument, and we begin to criticize the person instead of the point theyre making. Raptitude recommends breaking that habit to be more effective in our interactions with others. Its important to keep a debate on topic. Criticizing the other person doesnt only hurt the discussion itself, but it might even hurt the other person, causing them to feel the need to defend themselves when they should just be defending their point. Raptitude explains: Ad hominem is what its called when you try to win an argument by criticizing the other person, rather than the point theyre making. It can be subtle (Young people often dont realize this, but…) or overt (His book must be bullshit — he still wears pleated pants.) ...Something really amazing happens in a discussion when both sides privately commit to avoiding ad hominem: the topic actually gets discussed, and learning takes place. People feel free to change their minds because they dont have to defend themselves just to defend their view. The fix is easy: when youre in a disagreement, ask yourself if youre addressing the person or the point. If you have to, pretend its your grandmother making the opposing argument. So, next time you are discussing opposing views with someone, keep in mind to only address the point, not the person Credit: LifeHacker
Posted on: Tue, 21 Oct 2014 06:34:51 +0000