How can I become more powerful while debating with others?

Question

I feel weakness while debating with others and feel that my mind is changeable very easily by others. What are the basic principles of a good debate?

Answer 1

Keep in mind, that over half of the debate is totally subliminal. In other words, make sure that you are always giving them a stern eye contact, never look away from their eyes. Also, use very accurate and expresive hand motions (middle finger excluded). Make sure that no one ever talks over the top of you, and that you always get across what it is that you need to say, and make sure that you ask them if they understand you or not, always make sure they understand you.

Great question!

Answer 2

The fact that you feel your opinion can be swayed in a debate shows you are open-minded, and not pig-headed, which is a very positive thing, in my opinion!

However, if you want help arguing your case in a debate when it is a point you feel strongly about and you feel in your heart you are right, it takes practice. Know your argument first. Thinking on your feet is essential in a debate, so make sure you know all the facts to back up what you argue. Try to make your point as concisely and eloquently as you can. Read other debates to get some good tips on emotive, and public speaking.

Never resort to insults, sarcasm or putting another person's argument down, because this belittles your own point, and makes you look infantile. Always show respect for the other person's point of view.

Take a deep breath before launching in with your argument, and don't be afraid to pause for breath, or to gather your thoughts for a moment. Let your mind catch up with what your mouth is saying!

Hope this helps.

Answer 3

well, you sound like you come out of the debate with a better understanding of both sides, and your a reasonable person, but to debate, you have to go in, knowing what you know to be 100% true, and stand by that, if your bringing up something you're unsure of, that's a discussion topic, not debate. If you're overly accepting of others views, it might be that you're too trusting (there is such thing) or your logic has flaws when under pressure to think through things, try going into a debate with everything you want to bring up thouroughly thought through, know what your point is, and think through theirs when they're speaking, and keep in mind that they could be wrong, and try to point out the weaknesses in their argument 'cause chances are they've already seen them, and will recognize you more for pointing them out. You might also need to be more forceful, it's not always a bad thing.

Answer 4

1. Always know you will win before attempting a debate.

2. Have all your ducks in a row (i.e. research & sources to back up your position).

3. If you don't have the time to do the research, stay out of the debate arena, and certainly don't take someelse's word for the truth, unless you have researched the facts.

Good Luck and Warm Wishes.

Answer 5

My husband taught me about this because he's always getting into debates about everything.
The answer to your question is within your question.
Stay valid, resourceful, and valuable to the subject more than turning your responses to simply defense. In other words, your focus on the subject instead of a much needed database for the subject. Your strengths will be found within your knowledge.
So, stay focused on your point of view, make sure you're heard, and NEVER change your mind.

Answer 6

Amir, I am presuming that you are actually referring to a Debate , say , on a public platform over a chosen subject with two sides arguing for and against. ( Many times people call it a debate when they are arguing with some friends on some issues)

A Debate gives you an oportunity to prepare your arguments well in advance. You can prepare with some humerous anecdotes in between. MIld jokes on the opposition gropu and on their arguments will be well received.

I found that if I am defending a topic of the debate , by practising "opposing" the topic helps me prepare better. I try to put myself in the shoes of my opponents and I try to argue out with some chosen thoughts . That way my defence of the subject is convinving.

Answer 7

Knowledge is the key to a power ride, be it in a debate or living a Bright life.

Do a lot of research on the debate you are about to get in to, through books and internet.

Any debate can have more than one perfect conclusion to it, so look in your research for both sides, i.e., for it or against it, or a neutral side, then decide where you wanna stand based on your strongest convictions.

Then, jam it.

Answer 8

Read a good book on critical thinking.

Wikipedia states that critical thinking "consists of a mental process of analyzing or evaluating information, particularly statements or propositions that people have offered as true".

One such book that I've read, and would highly recommend, is "Critical Thinking: A Concise Guide" by Tracy Bowell and Gary Kemp.

Answer 9

make sure and know your topic, inside and out,,,,, this means, besides thinking of your point of view and what supports it,,, also consider what the other points of view are,,,,, what the opposition is/thinks, what supports their view,,,,,,,what evidence is opposed to their view,,,,, that way, before debating, you can consider all sides of an argument/topic, and reflect on why your position/opinion is best. ,,,,, sometimes it seems you need as much or more information about opposing viewpoints as you do about your viewpoint, in order to carry on a successful debate,,, informing yourself is always best! also, while you in the midst of a debate,, is not the time to reflect on their opinion, change your mind etc,,,, that is for after it,,,, or for a discussion

Answer 10

you have to know your subject. know your opinion, stance on the subject, and be confident. be open to listen to new ideas, and also stand for what you believe in. no need to argue, or go with the flow, but the point of a debate, is to encourage conversation, stimulate ideas etc. not about winning. but about understanding different viewpoints.

remember this ' in matters of principle, stand like a rock', 'in matters of taste, go with the flow' , 'if you dont stand for anything, you will fall for everything'
good luck,