Important Debate Question

[Ksa]

"If they're so simple, refute them."

^^-- This.

If your argument really is simplistic, there should be no reason not to refute it and move on to an argument they find more worthy of their time.

I also agree with Kitanetos that this person seems to be trying to deflect the conversation back on to your argument to deflect the fact that they have no refutation to give.

It also sounds like you've found a nerve with this person (your dad?) and he is reacting with an unwarranted amount of hostility for the "simplistic" argument you are putting forth. I'd say keep on it. Don't let this dissuade you from engaging because he's being hostile. Keep things civil and don't let them escalate to a shouting match (IOW, know when to back off) but keep revisiting the topic and whenever he replies with "this argument is so stupid and simple" than repeat that if it's really so simple than he shouldn't find it difficult to refute it and then the conversation can move forward.

I've already tried this, the way I formulated it was:

"If the argument is simple, then it is a gift to you because you can refute it very easily and enforce your own position."

No use. He just says that such a simplistic way of viewing life is too stupid for him to grasp and that, for him to take the time of the day to address it, it has to be more elevated and intelectual, that would "better reflect my university studies". He then tells me that it was a waste to send me to university for me to talk like a redneck countryman. Very insulting indeed lol. Both my parents proceed in saying that they will not tolerate me talking like an idiot in spite of my university studies.

It's basically just ad hominem after ad hominem. Non stop. I don't get what the problem is, can anyone spot it? Does it go beyond their refusal to accept my argument?