4 ms·

Is it wrong to ask someone that makes an assertion to provide a source or evidence? I don't think I asked in an offensive way.

• zorpner 12y ago
  As a component of discourse, asking for a source during an online discussion implies that such a source is not trivial to find, and thus calls into question the assertion for which a source is being asked for. Prepending your inquiry with "Really?" also contributed to that note of incredulity. Particularly in a case where a source or citation is extremely easy to find, asking for one comes off as less of an honest inquiry and more of a rhetorical device designed to discredit the person making the assertion, regardless of intent.
  • aros 12y ago
    Don't make claims unless you're prepared to provide the source. It's not anyone's responsibility but your own should you put forth said claim.
• mikeash 12y ago
  It can disrupt conversation to ask for a source when you could find it yourself in less time than it takes to ask. This is especially true when phrased in a curt manner that implies you already doubt the claim.
• shit_parade 12y ago
  I think a modicum of effort instead of wasting everyone's time with what is a well known fact would be polite.