Arguements

[sobrique]

When was the last time you conceded in an argument?
I'm not talking about the discussion at work when your boss says 'it must be done this way, and I'm your boss, so you will'. I'm talking about those points when you genuinely changed your opinion in response to an argument.

What about if we step down from 'argument' and move into 'lively debate'. Be it abour religion, politics, or any of those other subjects where there's no clear answer.

And to flip it the other way, how did you last react when someone conceded that you were right in an argument? Was it a smug crowing of victory? Or was it a gentle acceptance?

Jumping on someone who gives ground, just because they acknowledge that you might be right is the work of an arrogant arsehole. And anyone who debates a subject but wouldn't be prepared to give ground is a hypocrite.

Neither of which are likely to improve your karma.

Comments

[lisekit.livejournal.com]

I like the kind of discussion where you might begin at opposite poles, but move ever closer to, if not a middle ground shared equally, then at least an understanding of the other party's position. I have worked out who, in my friendship circle, can carry on the kind of debate punctauated frquently by "Yes, you're right there" and "I agree with that but what about this?"; and which of my friendship circle see concession as weakness. And guess which I like to talk to more?