Why would you cite your beliefs when arguing with someone who doesn't believe what you do?

Question

I hear this all the time from all sides. A Christian will argue that a Muslim is incorrect by using arguments from the Bible. A Muslim will argue that a Jew is incorrect using arguments from the Koran. An extreme liberal environmentalist will argue with conservatives using "hippy logic" (for lack of a better term). Doesn't this strike anyone as strange?

Answer 1

I never thought about that, but its kinda true. I think I ussually try to use logic or something that has precedent (ie Constitution). From now on I'll have to keep this in mind and try looking from the other side.

Answer 2

The Koran and the Bible have books in common. The are not entirely separate.

Some conservatives care about the environment. The don't all see environment and jobs as parallel plains..

Anyway, if the objective of arguing or discussing differences is to come to a common understanding, it wouldn't make sense to abandon your core beliefs in your arguments.

Answer 3

Not strange. I see it as common and particulary on sites such as this one. It's true though. People use arguments that have no meaning to the person with whom they are arguing which gets them no where. People who are deeply indoctrinated into a belief system cannot see beyond it when there is no logic to it. Or perhaps logic has no value to them. Then of course there are times when value has no logic to it. What ever anybody wants to believe is fine with me as long as they don't try to force their values on me. I have no desire to force mine on them.

Answer 4

I understand your question, but your argument hinges around the idea that logic without consideration of outside facts/ideas/truths can resolve an issue. For myself (a christian) the Bible is a primary source of truth whereby I resolve issues in my life. It is a starting point (or should be) for any issue(question) I face.

Answer 5

interesting question. removing yourself from someone else's paradigm indicates that you have your own ground from which to argue. i think it's usual and it is better than trying to win an argument from someone else's standpoint.

Answer 6

Not really. Half the time people are criticizing something they know nothing about.

Answer 7

what would be the point they wouldnt understand but in thaat case I shut them off and let them know not to impose their beliefs on me either

Answer 8

cause that's all they have. they refuse to think for themselves, and use their beliefs as a end all know all, when actually it's all faith and hearsay in my opinion