7 ms·
Why is expressing disbelief less furthering of discussion than citation-free expression of belief?
by brlewis 6y ago
Why is expressing disbelief less furthering of discussion than citation-free expression of belief?
- clairity 6y agobecause in the first instance, all you're saying is "prove it", implying that the prior reasoning was deficient without specifying the insufficiency. that's vague, lazy, and ultimately unproductive/stifling. at least point out the deficiency, thus furthering the discussion. the counter is not a non-furthering "citation-free expression of belief", but rather a rationale, a chain of observations leading to a reasonable conclusion, which can largely stand on its own and also furthers the discussion.
- brlewis 6y agoA full rationale is a nice ideal, but if you don't have time to research and compose a full rationale, silence is not always the best alternative.
- clairity 6y agoagreed, no one expects footnoted essays in discussion forums, but just saying "prove it" is lazy and no rationale at all. folks have to put some effort in to further the discussion. they shouldn't expect a response otherwise.