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Why Debate?
We were debating the flag burning amendment issue and the whole subject "Why bother debating?" came up. The assumption was, the other guy has already chosen what he wants to believe and most people aren't interested in learning anything new or changing their minds. Mainly, they're in it to convince you that they are right and you are wrong, a battle of wits in a sense.
I like debate, but not for those reasons. Frankly, unless it's directly affecting my health or well-being (or my family's, etc.etc.), I could care less what you choose to believe. You want to believe the Earth is flat, the CIA killed Kennedy and we didn't actually walk on the moon? Be my guest.
No, I debate for a couple of reasons:
To make my own arguments stronger. Like anything, until you put it through the wringer of public scrutiny, you're not going to see all the discrepencies, problems and holes. Actually laying ou your argument to another human is a really good way to figure out where you stand and why.
Similarly, having someone argue back is a good way to understand just how strong your argument is. I used to say I liked having the table I stand on kicked. That way I know it's strong. If the foundations of my beliefs can't hold up to basic logic, then I'm in trouble and I should rethink some of the stuff I consider truth.
To better understand what I'm arguing about. This is a different facet of the first idea. Again, laying out your argument forces you to understand it. If you are going to present a coherent case, you'll need to comprehend the reasons behind it. I find I learn a lot about science, politics, history and whatever else applies, when I'm working on backing up my words with facts.
To get information out there in a way that is sensible. This is a personal thing for me. I get tired of pointy-headed pundits arguing like sixth-graders about issues that are deep and complex, yet crucial to our culture, like abortion, evolution, constitutional amendments, freedom of speech, freedom of religion, the right to bear arms, gay rights, "morality", and so on. The sides on most of these issues are so polarized, they immediately fall into labelling and stereotypes, screaming the same idiotic arguments at each other to no avail. I like getting real facts and real feelings together and proposing an argument that takes a little bit longer than 30 seconds to explain. In doing so, I hope to spread compassion, understanding and logic, as well as leave a source of fact and structured argument that folks can draw from in the future.
To understand what the other side is saying. This has two aspects. First, there's the complete possibility that I've misunderstood something, or overlooked some point, and I might find that once I've discussed with someone who knows a little more, or who has a different opinion, that I've changed my mind. It's happened. In fact, there have been times when I've come out with an opinion that states categorically such-and-such is how it is (so there). And yet, when someone chimed in with a different aspect, I softened my stance or even reversed my opinion 180 degrees.
That's not called waffling, or losing, or giving in. That's called learning and growing stronger. I think this is something people overlook when debating.
Second, I think it's important to find out what the other side is saying and why, because if I can do that it helps make my arguments even stronger. I can orient my reasoning towards their exact case, rather than making general statements.
To dissect and disprove the arguments on the other side (if possible). This is the flipside of "making my arguments stronger", in that I also work to make the opponent's case weaker. Partly, this is fun. It's like a puzzle. But also, in cases like evolution, it's part of clearing up misinformation which I think is very important.
To determine the core difference that is causing the debate. If you can find the point where you diverge, you can often choose to agree to disagree on that one point. Then you realize at least why the guy is so adamant about something that seems so wrong. This leads to a better understanding of the human race in general and of "those other people" in particular. It also leads to greater compassion for others, which I think is a good thing.
To exercise my brain and language skills. And my debating skills. I've been able to apply a lot of what I've learned about debate to my own home life and my 14 year old. Plus, I find it fun to think and write critically and logically. It can only improve your life in other ways as well.
Notice that "To convince the other side I'm right" is not on there. That's not my agenda. I'm interested in showing them where I'm coming from and I'm interested in showing them the flaws in their own reasoning, if there are any, which will hopefully at least make them say "Huh" if they are open minded. And I'm interested in finding the core differences between us, if there are any, as that helps me understand and relate to you as a human being.
But to me, debate isn't about winning. In the beginning, it's about discovery, thrashing out the possibilities and understanding what the opposition is trying to say. In the end, it's about making your argument as clear and comprehensive as possible, while showing the pitfalls and problems with your opponents argument.
As an aside, I like debating with people who are not stupid, who are open-minded and who prefer logic over rhetoric, stereotyping and name-calling. And I despise hypocrisy, especially in those who would call one fact or prevailing opinion to support their reasoning, but ignore the same elsewhere when it contradicts their needs. I also hate quitters, those who storm off (or condescendingly withdraw) with claims about how the opponent will "never understand", rather than tactfully agreeing that they might have more thinking to do to shore up their arguments.
In short, I view debate more as a chess match than a duel to the death. I enjoy debating with folks who debate for the same reasons as I do, and have little time, except to lay out solid arguments, straighten out facts and take down faulty counter-arguments, for those who would rather clamor, condemn or convert than have a sensible discussion.
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