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Post by The Wanderer on Dec 3, 2004 10:32:19 GMT -5
Yes, I know. You're all probably thinking "What in the world does that title mean?"
Well, since you're here, I assume you asked yourself this question.
Anyways, this is something I'd been contemplating for some time, as it is a way for everyone to explain why they "enjoy," or perhaps "hate" debating.
I am going to confess right here and now that debating is on my "Most Loathsome Things in the World" list, as I have only seen it as something that brings out the worst in people. Especially when it comes to controversial topics.
To start off with, I debate only when I figure it's worth throwing myself into the heat of harsh contradictions and verbal attacks towards my platform. It is easier to debate, when it involves something that you fiercely support, and will find a way to make your point clear.
I have a few things I support, and am against. One such thing was when those greedy punks who own the New Orleans Hornets, (formerly Charlotte Hornets), wanted a new arena, with more executive suites, so they could make money. But they wanted the arena to be paid with tax money, meaning the city would have to raise already high taxes to do this. When we all said "NO!" they left. Jerks...
Anyways, this thread's purpose is to give a little speech about why YOU debate. One-liners will do.
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Post by Crystal on Dec 3, 2004 11:35:08 GMT -5
Why I debate....
Because I talk too much and I can't stand seeing other people talking without throwing in my own two hundred bucks.
Well, that mostly. I call it 'air my own views', but...yeah.
I'm getting very tired of certain topics now though, so I just avoid them unless I decide that it's really urgent.
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Post by Rider on Dec 3, 2004 14:24:42 GMT -5
[glow=red,2,300]I'm a pugnacious idiot, and I'll hop into the middle of a fray at a moment's notice. I'll debate even if I know I'm wrong.
Anyway, I don't know what it is. Maybe I just like having my voice heard. In real life, I need to scream my mother-flippin' lungs out to get any attention. (I'm 5 feet tall. Most people look right over me and continue on their merry way.) But yes, I like debating. Even though I'm hopelessly unskilled and can ramble in circles for hours, the way I'm doing now...
Yes. ;D[/glow]
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Post by Oily on Dec 3, 2004 14:57:50 GMT -5
I debate because I enjoy using words and logic, especially to knock out bits of other arguments and prove my own. I think it helps clarify my own opinions, and allows me to become more open minded. It also makes you more aware of the world and politics and science in general, and helps you to become more objective.
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Post by irishdragonlord on Dec 3, 2004 20:56:57 GMT -5
Mainly to point out the flaws and errors in common arguments, as well as get out my 2 grand to the world, and hone my debating skills  |
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Post by mushroom on Dec 4, 2004 0:32:01 GMT -5
It's partly because I think that if everyone believed the things I do, the world would be a better place ;D Debating, while probably not going to change the minds of those with whom I am debating, might help convince others following the debate.
It also helps develop my own mind and my own ability to say what I mean unambiguously, concisely, and eloquently. This is an area in which I definitely need practice.
It's also helped to give me a sense of what I can and can't do. Religion's so silly and subjective there's no point in debating it; we can argue until we die and find out anyway, but we're never going to convince each other, and I don't believe a person's religion matters, although its expression might. On the other hand, it might be possible to convince another person that this law or that action is good or bad or necessary, and it is worthwhile to try and convince others on these sorts of things.
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Post by Killix on Dec 4, 2004 4:41:26 GMT -5
I'm not very good at debating because I just can't think of ways to explain what I'm thinking. Therefore I just don't debate as much as I could if I had proper brain power.  |
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Post by Jessica Coconut on Dec 4, 2004 14:50:44 GMT -5
I've actually stated my opinion on debating several times before. But, I'll post it again just because.
In a topic such as this (at the time we were debating same sex marriages), there's no way to win over another side. It's to give it your all and try. Maybe you make a few people acknowledge your point, even switch sides (possibly because they didn't know all the facts, and we're introduced to something new)
Then, you try and hold your own against someone elses arguments.
We all know eachother has some very valid arguments, and some not so valid ones. We give it our best shot to make someone seriously consider and attempt to argue their best, and soon, when you've went over and over it again and again, you come to a point to agree to disagree. And, if the debates purpose was to actually make an official decision, you have to compromise and look for the best in both worlds.
The dividing factor is who of the undecided or acknoledge-everything people joins your side. 'Cause the people with minds made up don't budge.
I love debating. I love to argue. I also love to complain (much to a lot of peoples annoyance). But I also make sure to let them know that that's my nature. I'm also not afraid to admit defeat, or at least agree to disagree. It brings out some knowledge and new ideas, and it forces people to think outside the box and see the big picture. This in my opinion is the best part. (I despise idiots. DIE!!)
A good debate is one where the above happens (the thinking outside the box part), and people can control themselves (no flaming etc).
For those of you questioning my hate of idiots, I'm referring to people with a brain that functions perfectly, yet they make stupid, inconsiderate decisions. And I don't mean you're not the best at math or something, I mean you have poor judgement and have no respect for some people/their ideas. Like racist, prejudict people.
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Post by The Wanderer on Dec 5, 2004 9:54:35 GMT -5
I think a few people are aware I am not the greatest debater, but only because I really am not in to this. But hey, trying new things is an okay thing, right?
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