We do not expect participants in this forum to be scholars nor must they follow strict protocol for debate. However, a degree of diciplined discussion is expected. Comments and replies not directly contributing to the progress of the debate are strongly discouraged. Replies deemed by the moderators and administrators to constitute topic drift, hijacking, flaming, or flooding will be deleted without notice.
The following list of guidelines is not exhaustive, but is meant to be a launching point for the debates and discussions in this forum.
- Topics of any subject are welcome as long as they are intended to be debated per the rules of this forum.
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-- When participating in debates/discussions: - Be precise as you can in presenting your arguements. This will reduce the possibility of misinterpretation of your comments and statements.
- Avoid generalizations in that they are rarely true. Use of stereotypes and cliches do not advance the arguement nor do they lend credibiilty to the poster of such.
- Differentiate between fact and opinion. Clearly state whether a comment is an opinion. If you are quoting fact, cite the source when possible.
- Present your arguements logically. Critical analysis is a plus in any discussion. Confine your arguements to the topic at hand, and do not attack the messenger. Make no assumptions about claims that are popular or supported by the masses. They may not be valid.
Useful soruce material:
ON LINE DICTIONARY: http://dictionary.reference.com/
LOGICAL DEBATE: http://www.csun.edu/~dgw61315/fallacies ... troduction
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