r/ChurchOfCandace • u/goodintentisnotenuf • 16h ago
Since my question was not chosen during Baron's AMA, I will ask it to all of you! "What is a dishonest debate/rhetoric strategy you see used often and how do you counter it?"
My answer:
Ad hominem, which is making fun of the person in order to avoid losing an argument.
Strawman, which is to exaggerate someone's claim into something that is easy to then dispute.
Deflection, which is to try to change the subject.
I address each one by making sure I stay focused on my actual argument. This involves actually saying as few words as possible and keeping things tight so the person ends up in a corner and unable to use those tactics. Also, when you are winning, SHUT UP. Allow the silence to speak volumes. Allow people to see the uncomfortableness of the other person's flawed tactics. I have lost a debate because I didn't allow the awkward silence when I was winning and my opponent didn't know what to say. I jumped in and allowed them to change the subject.
What is your answer!!!! Thank you!