Lesson Summary
Debate is the pursuit of truth through the clash of competing ideas. Though we may think of it as a formal event, the majority of the debates you’ll be involved in throughout your life will be informal (conversations with friends, family, neighbors, etc.). Your goal in such situations should be to make sure you and your opponent thoroughly understand each other, even if you don’t agree.
It’s easy to think that your audience in a debate is just the person you’re arguing with, but there are more audiences to consider. First, you want to convince yourself of something before trying to convince someone else. And if there are others listening in, you’ll want to take them into consideration too. Additionally, there may be folks who read or listen to what you say at some point in the future. Your persuasiveness as a debater hinges on your abilities to connect with these different groups.
It can be tempting to think you need to walk into a debate ready to wipe the floor with your opponent, but such an attitude isn’t good for anyone involved. Rather, you want humility to characterize all that you do. Assume that you don’t have all the answers, and look forward to being educated or corrected. Remember that you’re engaged in pursuing truth together. Keep in mind the Golden Rule, and all parties should walk away from the debate mutually edified.
