Tactics
Here is a listing of a few tactics and gambits that can be useful in discussions and arguments. Don’t take the example as though it is necessarily the best response in each case — take the essay as an example of the tactic being demonstrated.
These tactics are suggestions to help both parties effectively engage each other in conversation. One of the most useful tactics is the “Make specific claims, ask for specific claims; use examples…” tactic. It really helps both parties make sure that they are at least addressing what the other person is thinking.
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The bear-hug embrace.
- Response to: Who would Die for a Lie?
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Rather than attack a person’s beliefs directly invite him to understand your criticism of a position not explicitly held by either of you. An extremely forceful argument can often be made without provoking a defensive shield.
- The Word of Zeus is not compelling.
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Agree with your opponent’s statement in such a way that it actually improves your position.
- Response to: “Hitler was an atheist…”
- Response to: “Jesus is Love…”
- Response to: “Bible can be interpreted in many ways…”
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Make specific claims and ask for specific claims; use clear examples and ask for clear examples.
- Response to: You are attacking a literal interpretation…
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Argue for the most defensible claim that is fundamentally devastating to your opponent’s position.
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Accept a falsehood that your opponent believes for the sake of argument if it quickly leads to a demonstrably wrong conclusion.
