On internet debate.

[Fidel_Castronaut]

Well you can rest easy knowing that when it comes to defining what constitutes a troll on here, mine and my fellow colleagues on the staff get the ultimate and final word.

So really it becomes academic from that standpoint

If you can get over the "witty comeback" aspect and concentrate on the actual debate, a debate on the web is much more fruitful, because you simply get more time to explain your point and understand the other views. Time is essential to have a calm discussion, do research, and debate with actual information.

I agree, the fact that one CAN come back when they've thought of a comeback also means they can come back after giving the topic more thought and having an epiphany. The benefits definitely outweigh any perceived costs. It's still important to remember, though, who your audience is. If you are trying to convince the passersby, you can be much more loose with your use of poetic language. If, however, your true goal is to convince the person who disagrees with you, you have to keep your thoughts much more focused, as any snide remarks, even in complete jest, are likely to bring the conversation to a halt.

You should also be aware that debate is very, very rarely about conving the other person you're right and they're wrong, but more about convincing onlookers that your points have more validity than your opponents.