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> I was arguing in a discussion that ArrayList was *always better* Tsk tsk. A critical rule for flame wars that also applies to mere discussions among common
by dbrueck 4y ago
> I was arguing in a discussion that ArrayList was *always better*
Tsk tsk. A critical rule for flame wars that also applies to mere discussions among common folk is that you should avoid using absolute terms, as it gives your opponent an easy opening. Instead, couch your statements in vague and wishy washy terms like 'usually' and 'often'.
This also helps when your opponent produces a valid counterexample - you can petulantly retreat to safer ground while grumbling about how of course there are occasional exceptions and then, if you wish, you can sidetrack the argument into a debate about how often it really happens. From there you can feign boredom and exit, think up a snarky, mic-drop conclusion, etc.
- As taught in Raised on the streets of BBSs and USENET
- PaulHoule 4y agoIn this case I not only got schooled but encountered an example for myself almost right away.
- lazide 4y agoTrue mastery right here. Senior Architect?
- sitkack 4y agoStop giving away the Dark Arts! No seriously, once you recognize the components of Rhetorical Combat, you can determine if you are going to have a civilized discussion, or if the parties will weasel their way around for sport or entertainment. If someone attacks my argumentation with uncharitable takes, my discourse with them is over. I personally would rather arrive that the truth and be wrong, than win an argument and let the truth escape.
- dbrueck 4y agoWell said!