Formal and Informal Debate Tactics

Like chess moves, some Debate Tactics are when one is “being on the offense” – and some are “being on the defense.”

I reviewed the web site referenced below a couple of years ago – so it was fairly easy to find again (thanks Google!).

Something recently triggered my most recent search. We’ll leave it at that.

If you debate, liking it or not, don’t be so easily manipulated. When someone pulls a tactic on you – call it out – IMO – in your response. And then move quickly – or not – to your point or counterpoint.

Tip of the Hat to John T. Reed

From: Intellectually-honest and intellectually-dishonest debate tactics

Most arguments and debates are one dishonest tactic after another

Although I am fond of intellectually-honest debate, about 90% to 95% of the statements made by my opponents to prove that I am wrong have been of the intellectually-dishonest variety. The same thing applies across the board. Almost all arguments consist of one intellectually-dishonest debate tactic after another. The general failure to recognize these tactics as intellectually-dishonest and invalid are one of the reasons why our country has gotten so screwed up.

Read all of John’s 71 Tactics – here.

Note: the D Tactic is a sub-tactic to #3.

For a Fun USA Historical Perspective

10 famous political debate moments

Read that – here.

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