Arguing/Fighting on the Internet

Jenster said:

^^ Wisdom.


"Obviously if you think this way, there's something wrong with you."

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Well I suppose if they disagree with me then this is true.

Or maybe they could take something out of context.

Jenster said:

I've written some posts that've zinged people, I admit. Mostly people who go on the attack, thinking it is the same as defending or explaining their point. I don't mind strongly and intelligently worded explanations of someone's point of view, but I draw the line at personal attacks.

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Same here. I actually enjoy intelligent debate, but personal attacks are uncalled for.

I'll admit to throwing a few zingers myself, for similar reasons as you... but I'm thinking about replacing them with one word: Explain! Posters who are on the offensive don't usually explain themselves. They will respond to a zinger with more personal attacks. Asking them to explain their position might help me avoid sticky situations. If they either can't or don't explain themselves, then I'll leave the discussion.

CuriousArtist said:

I'm thinking about replacing them with one word: Explain! Posters who are on the offensive don't usually explain themselves.

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That's a great idea, CuriousArtist. I should do the same!

Jenster said:

twistedsketch said:

What's even better is the Hitler/Nazi Reflex. I've done it in the past, but I'm really trying to quit now that it's so overdone. When someone makes a hasty comparison to Hitler or the Nazis these days, it makes me think of the good things he did. As evil as he was, he did some good things. And as bad as many unpopular figures, groups, and events are today, many of them can't compete with Hitler, the Nazis, the Holocaust, or true Fascism.

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Yeah, I know what you mean! That whole All Good vs. All Bad gets a little unbelievable after awhile. Or invoking a value that has little to do with the issue at hand. Such as, speeding cars are bad because they could injure pedestrians. Speeding cars will KILL OUR PRECIOUS CHILDREN!!!

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This just occured to me: We should also find a worthy counter to the Rape Reflex, which is similar.