What is an effictive argument?

Answer 1

That depends to a huge degree on the audience you're trying to persuade.

But a few points:

- Define terminology. Make sure the argument is not hinging on both sides just having a different definition of a term. E.g. most disagreements over the statement "evolution is a fact/evolution is a theory" hinge over disagreement on what both sides mean by "evolution" (i.e. the process of slow change in an organism, or the theory that explains that process, or the theory that explains all species in terms of that process) and "theory" (is it a groundless guess, or an explanatory system with evidence).

- Look for commonality. Find *something* in which both sides agree ... and work from there. If you have an opponent who will not agree with you that the sky is blue, then things are pretty hopeless.

- *Listen* to your opponent. If they are wrong, there will be key flaws in a statement, in a word they are using, in a leap of logic without foundation ... find those and make them back them up.

- Concede points. If your opponent makes a good point, say so. Hopefully, they will offer you the same courtesy. And that is how you find commonality, and maintain civility.

- Clarify the question. There should be one short question on the table at a time that *both* sides must agree on. Which brings me to ...

- Stick to the topic. Don't let your opponent derail the argument when you get close to nailing a point.

Answer 2

Unfortunately, I have learned by experience that there is no surefire effective argument. Many people are too dumb to follow logical reasoning. You will be unable to convince any of these people. Many people have preconceived notions that they are unwilling to change even in the face of a rock solid argument. You will also be unable to convince any of these people. This leaves you with only about 5-10% of people.

So don't even bother. People are garbage. They believe what they want to believe for irrational reasons based upon myth, superstition, political affiliation, religion, parental influence, defective psychology, and a host of other dumb considerations. Don't beat your head against a wall with people who can't hear reason. F*ck'em.

Answer 3

You know it effective when, after the argument, the other sides express something like this:

Wow! You're right. I never thought of that.

On the other hand, if you get the response such as

I don't believe it. That doesn't make sense. etc.

then it is not an effective argument.

Answer 4

An effective argument adresses all of your oponents points while introducing your own to pursude a third party.

Answer 5

One that is logically consistent, and which fully conveys the opinion.

Answer 6

Hi. One that clearly expresses your point.

Answer 7

One that makes someone reevaluate their position.

Answer 8

One that dosent suck kthnx bye.

Answer 9

one that wins.