(WARNING: The following will be boring intellectual speak. So feel free to skip to the end of the italics portion.)
What is debate?
According to the American Heritage Dictionary, debate is:
- To consider something; deliberate.
- To engage in argument by discussing opposing points.
- To engage in a formal discussion or argument.
In a true debate, definitions of the terms involved must be accepted and consistently used throughout the debate. For instance, if you’re debating about technology as a communication tool, then definitions for “technology”, “communication”, and “tool”1 must be agreed upon by all parties or else they will be debating about different things.
I’m sorry. I know. I got a little technical there. It happens sometimes. But I wanted to stress the importance that definitions must be settled upon for debate. I get tired of seeing people in different forum communities trying to say they are “debating” topics2 when all they are doing is calling each other “sissies” and talking about their moms. It gets rather ridiculous. A true debate does not require name calling to be “won.” Actually, in a true debate, there is no name calling. Go figure.
A true debate is a learning experience. Why? Because both sides have to learn something about the other side in order to have a successful debate.
Let’s try an experiment:
I’m going to provide you with a debate topic. I want you to think about that topic and choose a side that fits you the best. Then I want you to argue for the other side of the argument in the comments.
Here’s the topic:
Resolved: Shopping on the Internet is actually safer than shopping at a brick and mortar store.
So, now you must pick the affirmative or the negative of that statement. Do you agree with it or disagree with it? If you agree, I want you to argue as if you disagree. If you disagree, I want you to argue as if you agree.3
When you’re done commenting on this topic, feel free to try the same experiment over in my Thinker forum. I’ve already started another debate there. Feel free to start your own also.
- He said “tool!” [«]
- Such as the best place for tacos, games, foreclosure help, or 10 penny nails. [«]
- Hope I haven’t confused you.
[«]
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By Janna on Aug 15, 2008 |
Resolved: Shopping on the Internet is actually safer than shopping at a brick and mortar store.
Welllll, I suppose I mostly disagree with that statement. I guess I worry about credit card fraud or identity theft when dealing with online transactions.
So, as per your request, I’ll try thinking of some arguments which refute my position instead:
1) Shopping online IS safer than shopping in a brick-and-mortar store because when you’re in the safety of your own home, you don’t have to worry about getting mugged on the street.
2) Also safer because the absence of driving means you don’t have to worry about encountering automobile troubles on your way to/from the store. (e.g. flat tire, engine overheating, brakes malfunctioning,)
3) In a similar vein, the absence of driving means you won’t have to worry about encountering other drivers who might be causing accidents. (e.g. drunk drivers, drivers who are distracted by cell phone conversations or their own misbehaving kids)
4) When shopping online, your purse/wallet stays right next to you at all times. In a brick-and-mortar store, there’s always a chance you could absentmindedly misplace your purse or wallet, thus giving someone else a chance to steal it.
Most recent blog post from Janna: Here, try some!
By Saphrym on Aug 16, 2008 |
@Janna: Great arguments. Now I happen to agree with that resolution, so according to my own rules, I’ll argue against your points:
1. House break-ins are just as rampant as muggings. The home does not make for a safer location to shop. Especially since people will notice all of those packages coming to your house and the boxes left out for the garbage.
2 and 3. Automobile accidents don’t happen nearly as often as people believe. Defensive driving can keep you safe. Keeping your eyes on the road can even protect you from drunk drivers. And being able to “window” shop at brick and mortar stores is much more satisfying. Also, with the package in your hands, you’re more likely to make informed decisions which keeps you from spending frivolously.
4. Yes. But your account numbers are scattered all throughout the “‘net.” How can that be safe?
(I’d love to argue against myself. But according to my rules, it’s the job of someone else job.
)