RE: "I disagree with you, but i don't think you're Hitler"
February 22, 2011 at 12:21 pm
(This post was last modified: February 22, 2011 at 12:23 pm by Rwandrall.)
(February 22, 2011 at 12:18 pm)leo-rcc Wrote: You are basically arguing for the "Don't be a dick" position that was put forward by Phil Plait at a TAM as well, and though I understand where you are coming from I think that position is inherently flawed. I think there are times that being a dick works. There are also times that diplomacy works better. If you are in it to convince theists of your position both can be a valuable asset in your arsenal of persuasion tools.
Speaking from personal experience, I've changed my mind on several occassions after heated discussions where at somepoint I've been called a idiot. And though at the time that really wasn't what I wanted to hear, it was what I needed to hear.
All i can say is that i do not agree. Even if you were right in that being a dick works sometimes, i am still convinced that diplomacy is more effective, and more importantly transfers a better image to the one you are arguing against. I maintain that you are more easily convinced by someone friendly than by a douchebag.
