Shaun\'s Guide to Poor Argument Skills
 

One or two of you might have noticed my presence in a number of Housemate-related debates, as well as a few personal disputes with other... undesirables. And I've noticed a great sense of frustration amongst users because they disobey the guidelines I'm about to set out for you. :wink:

I should start writing advice columns for Agony Aunts or something :)

So, first of all - never use irrelevancy. The most obvious sign of a poor argument is if you cannot stick to the subject and draw in other irrelevant details (perhaps in attempt to slander the person you're arguing with). Examples of this are seen in saying things like "You're a Dennis fan, so you're not exactly morally-sound". Yes, whilst this may be true, one might as well be saying that "because I'm a fan of yoghurt, I have a strong tendency to fly to Brussells". It's that irrelevant.

Numero dos, personal attacks. Follows from the above, kinda. They're against the forum rules for a reason. They're not going to make you look cool, bitchy or funny, just a bit rude. I know some of you will be saying "OMG SHAUN U HYPOCRITE" but...that's against this rule too, so BOOYAH.

For my third point, overuse of forum smileys. Nobody likes a smart-arse who finishes every point with a sly :rolleyes: or a mocking :laugh2:. If you feel compelled to use a smiley, use the pink elephant instead and lighten the atmosphere.

Feel free to add your own points - I certainly will as I think of them.

I use the;; :rolleyes: way to much.

so true.
Especially the use of 'You're a Dennis fan' :tongue:
loveit<3

:rolleyes:

:yuk:

Shaun, your a Dennis fan, so you would say all that...

LOL kidding!

I agree with the personal attack thing, its so pathetic. I remember aruging about Orlaith and someone said 'Yeah- show a pretty picture of Grace then' when Grace had absolutely nothing to do with it.

:laugh2:

I love the :rolleyes:





:elephant:

Have proof to back up your points. It is pointless saying "you said this" if when asked, you can't point people to it.

Admit when you are wrong rather than just repeating the same point you now know are incorrect.

If someone asks you to clarify a point you have made, do so rather than just ignoring them.

Rofl! Shaun, you ledgend! :thumbs:

I never use the smileys... i'm trying to make myself but it's so much effort :P

Let me add, please do not use logical fallacies during arguments, because they're annoying and just show that you do not actually have a good point. Although I guess this would count as saying something irrelevant.