Today I'm going to discuss some debate basics. You wish to make a statement (going on the offensive).
Example: I believe PPACA (Obamacare) is a bad piece of legislation or Kathleen Sebebius is trying to intimidate private insurers.
First, we DO NOT attack the person. We attack behavior, outcomes, actions, philosophy, and ideas. There is a proper logical way to debate that garners respect and causes people to think, and an improper way that is negative, hurtful and makes you (and your cause) look foolish. Many times, when you make statements that attack or question laws, ideals or philosophy, instead of getting a robust defense from your opponent, you are met with a deflection. Often times, this goes unnoticed and you end up going down the road of defending a non-sequitur. Meanwhile, your opponent has gone on the offensive. I would like to point out that this is a tactic widely used by the Left (Liberals). You must recognize it as a 'tactic'. Once you recognize it, you can call it out and defeat it. (simply) Do this gently, as most who use this tactic don't realize it's a tactic (albeit easliy defeated). Plus, by respecting your opponent, you keep your friendship in tact or build a new relationship. I've won great friends though respectful debate. I may not agree with them, but who wants to be surrounded by people you agree with all the time? Boring! Let's talk about deflection and keep in mind it is NOT a defense in debate. Here's what it looks like...
Example:
YOU: I believe PPACA (Obamacare) is a bad piece of legislation and here is why (provide evidence to support your statement)
Opponent (reply): Tell me what Bush actually accomplished in 8 years? (Defelction)
See what happened? Let's unpack it;
Your opponent accomplishes two goals by deflecting (if you fall for it);
1. Your opponent avoids making a defense based on your initial statement or assertion.
2. Your opponent places the burden on you to defend a position you did not take in the first place.
It's called a deflection. It draws the focus away from your original statement where your opponent is unable or unwilling to make a defense.
There are ways to avoid this. First, before you make an assertion/statement, make sure you have evidence to support it. Second, check your pulse. Make sure you are not emoting (this will backfire). Third, if the opposition is going to engage, they must defend. Don't get sucked in by a question (the opponent must defend or choose not to engage). Finally, when your opponent engages in the discussion, make sure you keep the focus on your original statement (provide evidence or re-state your position).
You must be aware at all times. Logic wins in the end. Think things through and when things get heated (emotional), call it out and re-focus on your original statement. Keep an eye out for emotionally charged words and statements like (racist, you hate puppies and kittens, etc). When I see these tactics deployed, I know I have my opponent on an 8 count. Their defeat is immanent.
Observation, logic and tact are not passive. You must actively employ them in discussion. Don't get thrown off course with a awry statement or deflection.
Be gentle in delivery.
Do you debate?
Thanks
Lance Cashion
Defeat 'Them' on Nov 2nd
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