Dec 07 2009
Language Use in Humanistic and Wise Debate
When debating and criticizing differing ideas and worldviews, I think it is important to put the focus on the “that” of the opposition rather than the “they.” For example: Instead of, They are ridiculous for holding that belief, it is better to go with, That belief (they hold) is ridiculous.
I can think of three reasons why.
1. Ad hominem thinking is a cheap, easy tactic. They hold that belief simply because they are stupid or evil, etc., while you are smart and virtuous. Right. Reasonable argumentation steers clear of ad hominem tactics.
2. In most cases it is simply more accurate, more true. Intelligent people can hold stupid beliefs. And we all know, or should know, that people can be wise and virtuous in one area of their life, but not in another. We are multi-faceted creatures that can be X in some situations, Y in others. What are the situations? To get more specific is to be more disciplined in our thought and more reality-based, so to speak.
3. To focus on the specific ideas of those we disagree with is more humanistic in this regard: By doing so we covertly or overtly express a belief in human potential and the need for the freedom to change. Personally, I don’t like to think of myself as an atheist or even a humanist. Because these are not who I am but rather what I do. Will I do the same tomorrow? Probably. But even so, I want and prize the freedom to change. For myself and others.
By focusing our criticisms on the ideas and not the individuals, a working relationship is easier to maintain. We can agree to disagree without alienating the other. If we do desire change, it is certainly easier to change when the focus is on thoughts and behaviors rather than identities.
Yes, at times I get exasperated and will lazily aim my criticisms at a group of people or a stereotypical type of person. But that is only something I do. A bad habit. Fortunately, I have the freedom to change, if given the opportunity.
[...] loom large for many of us, a Nadder reminds us to eat our scientific greens, and the evolving mind gives us some debating tips which may improve our social skills at the family table too. The emotion machine introduces the [...]
Sort of like love the sinner, hate the sin. :)