Topic: Debate as a Bloodsport (Read 1163 times)

Yeah well you're just a dick. 



Srsly though, I agree. Namecalling is something one ought to have left behind in elementary school (or grammar school for the non-US folks here).

Is there a specific reason why you want examples? I'm not really interested in calling people out. I don't see how that could be productive. This is just a general plea so people that feel they identify with my description can at least evaluate their behavior and decide how they want to proceed.

Could you point to some examples? I haven't noticed this happening much, but then I've not been reading the forums that actively, either.

I don't understand what you're asking. How do I collect data to prove hostility exists? It's subjective. I didn't say there is more hostility than not if that's what you think. Please try to be more detailed with your objections.

Please collect data because this is just perception.

As I read through the forums, I am dismayed at all of the hostility that exists between members. Why do so many people feel the need to speculate about the mental states of others? Does it really add anything to say "No serious X would do Y." or "That is just silly." or "Your argument is idiotic."? I don't think it does. As a typically impartial reader, I am forced to skim over these kinds of comments because I'm looking only for the meat of the issue, to see who puts forth the best argument based on logic and evidence. I really don't care if X thinks Y is a moron. Also, the fact that X is insulting Y doesn't change the truth of X's position, assuming X is right, or vice versa. However, it does make the entire experience less enjoyable for me.

Many people avoid ad hominems but have no problems with outright insults. I think we should avoid both. One is a logical fallacy and the other is just noise. If you need to vent, punch a pillow, scream at a wall, go play a first-person shooter or find some other outlet where hostility is welcomed. If you care about this community then please do us all a favor by sticking to the issues and leaving the other person out of it. Even if someone is making an obvious mistake or is clearly wrong, there's no reason to be nasty about it. Their being wrong isn't a personal attack on you so don't return the favor.

*title shamelessly stolen from Norman Swartz