Proposal for Political Thread

1966newport · Nov 17, 2020

just more posts i wont read

Kippy · Nov 17, 2020

Fratzog said: ↑

Is this what you mean by backing it up?

The Karate classes I took years ago taught discipline and restraint based on self awareness. Physical self defence was always a last resort. How about a cogent counter-argument based on facts when engaging in an online forum?
Here are some ideas to keep disagreements in a debate respectful.
A Debilitating Mental Health Crisis Almost Ended His Life. Now He Wants to Save Others
It appears the link is wonky. Here is a cut and paste version.

What a world it would be if we all agreed on absolutely everything. But, as you already know, that's just not reality.

We all have our own thoughts, opinions, and values -- which means disagreements can be pretty common, especially in the workplace.

However, there's a big difference between just disagreeing and disagreeing respectfully. The first will likely cause hurt feelings and only add fuel to an already tense fire. But, the second? That approach can lead to new ideas and a much more productive discussion.

Unfortunately, it's all too easy to get so wrapped up in your own beliefs that all common courtesy goes straight out the window. So, as a friendly reminder, here are six key tips for disagreeing with someone -- respectfully, of course.

1. Focus on Facts

A strong argument is one that uses facts over opinion. But, that can be difficult to remember when you're in the middle of a disagreement.

However, a respectful -- not to mention compelling -- disagreement is one that prioritizes logic over your emotions about the situation. So, don't forget to place your emphasis on the reasoning and information supporting your disagreement.

Not only will that make you much more convincing, but it'll also make it clear that this isn't personal.

2. Don't Get Personal
Speaking of getting personal, it's something you want to avoid at all costs when disagreeing with someone -- particularly in a professional setting.

Obviously, that means you shouldn't put down the other person or attack his or her ideas and beliefs. That's not at all helpful or productive.

Instead, focus on illustrating why you feel the way you do. Remember, your goal is to effectively present your ideas -- not to just poke holes in the other person's.

3. Recognize the Good
Yes, you're disagreeing with this person. But, rarely is a suggestion so bad that you can't find a single nugget of wisdom hidden in there somewhere.

Before launching right in with your argument, it's best if you can preface it with something that you like about that person's original suggestion -- and then use that as a launching point for your own idea.

For example, something like, "I definitely think you're on the right track in saying that we need to improve our customer response time. But, what if we did it this way instead?" shares your idea in a way that's friendly and collaborative -- and not at all accusatory.

4. Remember to Listen
There's a trap that's all too easy to fall into when you find yourself in the middle of a disagreement: Rather than actively listening, you're just sitting there waiting for your chance to respond.

Unfortunately, conversations where you're completely tuning the other person out are never productive. So, remember to actually listen to the points your conversational partner is presenting. You might be surprised -- you could end up finding an even better solution that way.

5. Use "I" Statements
Which one of the following statements sounds more harsh and critical?

"You always come up with these big ideas so close to the deadline that you only make things harder for everybody."

"I see where you're coming from, but I'm concerned we might be getting too close to the deadline for major changes."

Chances are, the first one made you recoil just a little bit. This example is an adequate representation of why it's best to use "I" statements when disagreeing with someone. It's just another subtle way to illustrate that your disagreement isn't a personal attack.

No, effectively disagreeing isn't all about sugarcoating what you're trying to say. But, making even this small effort to soften your language can make a big difference in how your message is received.

6. Know When to Move On
That cliché catchphrase "agree to disagree" is oft-repeated for a reason: It can be a handy sentiment to lean on when you need it.

Perhaps one of the most important pieces of respectfully disagreeing with someone is knowing when you need to just call it quits and move on.

No, it's not always easy to swallow your pride and walk away -- particularly when you feel strongly about your side. But, sometimes it's the best thing you can do.

Disagreements are inevitable. But, there's definitely a wrong way and a right way to present your own arguments.

Implement these six key tips, and you'll be able to disagree in a way that's effective, professional, and always respectful.
Click to expand...

Kippy · Nov 17, 2020

I dont understand your points in the beginning of your reply to me, if you want more of a explanation on my part please let me know.
Your ideas for a respectful debate, those I will copy and keep close by, all excellent points and well taken.
I hope you and as well as everyone here will abide by them and pity some didn't as there would be a political forum on this site.
Not that im casting blame on anyone mind you but again giving a moderator and site owner a hard time, cursing him out, demanding, carrying on like members are privileged and deserve it, all on a privately owned site brings consequences.
You need not agree but we dont have a political forum do we?
I hope that maybe in a few months if Joe see's things calming down, if asked again about a PF maybe he would reconsider and you guys will get what you want.

Fratzog · Nov 17, 2020

Kippy said: ↑

I dont understand your points in the beginning of your reply to me,
Click to expand...

I just asked you a very simple question. I can't put it any more plainly so I will just cut and paste.
Is this what you mean by backing it up?
↑
a fist in the face

Joeychgo · Nov 18, 2020

Okay, enough of this BS. I'm closing this down.

What I have gleamed by this is that the most vocal people who want a politics forum are doing exactly what I feared, resorting to threats, bullying, personal attacks and basic petulance.

At this time, there will be no politics forum and politics is not allowed on the site.

I do like one part of the suggestion... and may very well utilize it or some part of it.

Fratzog said: ↑

2. At the same time announce strict rules with no appeal for all members. There are plenty of good code of conduct templates out there but I'd suggest the main rule is no politics or personal attacks of any sort for all other threads outside the political thread. Failure to adhere to the rules first time will get you suspended at the sole discretion of the mods as fair warning. If it happens again the member is gone for good.
Click to expand...

Of course the part about "outside the political thread" doesn't apply since politics are not allowed on the site. But the rest of it sounds pretty good to me at this point.

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