Debates Worthy of the Internet: Understanding Their Value and Impact
Debates on serious issues such as equality and justice have been ongoing for centuries, with books being written and theories being critically analyzed. Despite these debates, significant questions remain unresolved. For example, while Keynes's theories have been both critiqued and supported with evidence from history, the question of their ultimate validity is still debated.
However, the internet has transformed the nature of these debates. It has become a platform for quick, short, and often unproductive back-and-forth arguments. While the internet does provide a means to reveal the mind-sets of others, the essence of a meaningful debate is often lost in the process. One must question whether all debates are worth having on the internet, and if so, under whose judgment.
Why Not All Debates Are Worth Having on the Internet
When people engage in debates online, the primary goal often seems to be broadcasting tribal affiliation. Those who align with a particular viewpoint get to join a self-reinforcing consensus circle, while those who disagree are labeled as "the enemy." Questioning ideas can lead to further polarization, as individuals are pigeonholed into one of these two categories. In many cases, those who question are more likely to be deemed difficult to “challenge” rather than willing to change their minds.
For a debate to be truly worthwhile, it should not be framed as a win-lose situation. In high school debate, participants are expected to understand both sides of the argument before taking a position. Similarly, in a constructive online debate, both sides should have a clear understanding of their positions and be willing to listen to opposing viewpoints. Any debate where one or both parties are not listening to each other is likely not worth having, as it is merely an exercise in waiting for one's turn to speak.
Debates as a Matter of Truth: When They Are Not Worth Having
Debates on political and religious matters, which can be deeply rooted in beliefs, are often not productive. When these debates are framed as discussions of truth or correctness, they are doomed to endless repetitions and conflicts. However, when they are framed as matters of understanding and inquiry, they can lead to more valuable and constructive outcomes.
Atheists, for example, often have a better understanding of the Bible than fundamentalist Christians. Similarly, debates against socialism or communism are often not based on a clear understanding of the opposing viewpoints. Without a solid foundation of knowledge, these debates can devolve into superficial arguments rather than meaningful discourse.
When a debate is framed as a matter of truth or correctness, the potential for offense is high, and the discussion will never end. By leaving out matters of truth or validity, it is possible to have a more constructive discourse that can lead to better understanding and mutual respect. However, this is not a guarantee, as introducing the concept of truth often leads to further conflicts.
Concluding Thoughts
The internet offers a platform for debating important issues, but it is essential to recognize the limitations of online discourse. Whether a debate is worth having should be determined by the intentions behind it and the willingness of all parties to engage in constructive dialogue. By framing debates as matters of understanding rather than truth, it is possible to move towards more meaningful and productive discussions.
Keywords: debate internet value, online discourse, tribal affiliation, constructive discourse, endless repetition
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