Quote:
Originally Posted by PepsiFree
But then, pointing out that someone should re-evaluate their argument structure is not really a compelling argument outside of academia. The human brain is not always logical, it is also highly emotional and often defies logic. The better approach is to show someone why their argument is not logical. Calling it a strawman, or whatever, is simply pointing out the problem, not explaining it or offering a solution.
It’s lazy and pseudo-intellectual imo. Life isn’t a university Philosophy or debate class. You don’t get a degree from how well you can discover logical fallacies on the internet. Nobody is grading your posts but you.
Everyone is better off talking to each other like human beings. More important than sounding smart is knowing your audience and seeking a mutual level of understanding.
And hey, if someone continues to use the same logical fallacy over and over, you can always just let the argument go and move on. It really doesn’t matter in the end, does it?
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This.
I know that pointing out a logical fallacy is not a good strategy in an argument. Assuming we mean argument to mean "a discussion involving conflicting viewpoints wherein both parties try to bring the other party around to their way of thinking". I can easily see how that's just shooting myself in my own foot and isn't helping me sway minds and hearts.
Truth is, I'm not skillful in arguments - and especially not in asserting my points against someone who's contentious, less than respectful, or acting bullheaded. That puts me at a disadvantage on the few occasions when I do get into arguments. Sometimes I feel like I can see both sides of an argument, but I'm up against someone who can't. Or more likely can, but just won't admit it - because that doesn't win arguments.
Theory, I understand. Practice and application - I don't got. I'm far more likely to declare the situation a losing proposition and walk away feeling like a loser or a whimp or both.
I was kind of hoping to practice my arguing skills in the safe, warm waters of CP.
I think what I'm hearing here (especially from folks I have disagreed with in the past) is "You're not good at it. So what? Changing minds and swaying opinions through an argument probably isn't a winning strategy for you. Perhaps you have something in your toolkit that works better for you?"
...mulls things over and skulks away to go work on The Long Game.