Another possibility: instead of assuming anything, ask questions to clarify where the speaker/writer is coming from. In my experience, people who are arguing in

Another possibility: instead of assuming anything, ask questions to clarify where the speaker/writer is coming from. In my experience, people who are arguing in good faith will be glad to go along (as long as you're truly questioning and not badgering or cross-examining). People who are arguing in bad faith will resist, evade, try to turn things around etc. The difference is usually apparent as soon as you ask the first question.