Lately, following the recurring tensions I’ve faced while discussing various issues with different people, I decided to write down some thoughts on the etiquette of debating, for myself, and of course for others (especially since it often comes up during gatherings like Nowruz).

1. A debate should be polite
A change in tone during a debate is reason enough to end the discussion and preserve the friendship, if it’s worth keeping.

2. A debate should have a purpose
The point of debating is to reach a clear goal: to understand the other person’s perspective, or to share your own so both sides’ views are mapped out. Otherwise, it’s just casual conversation, or worse, an attempt by one side to impose their opinion on the rest.

3. A debate should be revisitable
Just one instance of failure in reasoning is enough to realize there’s no need to continue, especially if the person whose reasoning failed insists on holding their ground despite the flaw in their argument.

4. A debate should stay within context
Shifting a debate from its original scope into deeper layers usually comes from those trying to push their personal beliefs, not from those seeking a resolution. When this shift happens, it’s time to consider ending the discussion.

(To be continued | Share your thoughts too.)

Related:
7+1 Semi-Sufficient Principles