3 ms·

Some tips: If you write a response, before sending it go back through and edit it, think about removing unneeded negativity now that you have a fully fleshed p

Some tips: If you write a response, before sending it go back through and edit it, think about removing unneeded negativity now that you have a fully fleshed post. If your post starts with "No." or "You're wrong." consider removing those and just letting your argument stand on its own. Consider using softer and more charitable words like "mistaken" instead of "wrong". Usually that's what is meant in most cases anyway. Avoid the backdoor route to building a strawman, don't add unspecified details or intensity to a post that isn't there. Doing so makes it easier to get on a high horse, but usually that isn't warranted. Get used to having a genial exchange of views with a slight difference of opinion, it's not necessary for every "argument" to be a fight to the death. Try to read posts by others more charitably, and take the time to apologize for mistakes you've made or times you've let your emotions get the better of your reason. Upvote comments you disagree with that are well made and lead to a good discussion.

MollyR 12y ago
These are good tips. I will be using them. Do you have advice how to figure out if someone is responding in bad faith, and what to do in those situations ? EDIT: > Avoid the backdoor route to building a strawman, don't add unspecified details or intensity to a post that isn't there. What if you must add details to clarify what the context of the post is ? ex .Water is liquid. I reply But Water is solid when below freezing.
- InclinedPlane 12y ago
  If someone is responding in bad faith, then usually you just want to curtail talking to them. If you think it's still necessary to continue the thread due to the "audience", then concentrate on facts and sources and just make the strongest argument you can then just leave it alone. Avoid trying to get the last word or being goaded into responding just because someone said something that makes you upset. In regards to clarification, that's easy, ask questions, ask for clarification. Just don't assume.
deleted 12y ago
[deleted]

MollyR 12y ago

These are good tips. I will be using them. Do you have advice how to figure out if someone is responding in bad faith, and what to do in those situations ? EDIT: > Avoid the backdoor route to building a strawman, don't add unspecified details or intensity to a post that isn't there. What if you must add details to clarify what the context of the post is ? ex .Water is liquid. I reply But Water is solid when below freezing.

InclinedPlane 12y ago
If someone is responding in bad faith, then usually you just want to curtail talking to them. If you think it's still necessary to continue the thread due to the "audience", then concentrate on facts and sources and just make the strongest argument you can then just leave it alone. Avoid trying to get the last word or being goaded into responding just because someone said something that makes you upset. In regards to clarification, that's easy, ask questions, ask for clarification. Just don't assume.

deleted 12y ago

[deleted]