Tiffany White, Illustrator
In class discussions or even with close friends, differences in opinion come up. When this happens, a debate is almost sure to follow.
We have all been present when a discussion gets far too heated and out of hand. But how can you actually win one of these arguments? How can you disagree with someone’s personal views without being disrespectful and the discussion getting heated? And how can you state your opinion while also sounding intelligent and coherent?
For the answers to these questions, I went to senior Nina Datlof, president of the UR Debate Union, who told me that the keys to a successful debate are to be organized, weigh arguments and remain calm.
Be Organized
The best way to stay organized is by planning what you’re going to say before you say it. In class discussions, it’s helpful to write down your argument before you begin speaking, then dividing up your points based on sub-topics.
For example, if you are arguing that people should eat more vegetables, list the over-arching reasons why (because they are low in cholesterol and fats, because they have valuable fibers and vitamins, and because they are easier for your body to break down) and then organize the body of your argument under these headings.
This division strategy will help you organize your thoughts and your final argument. Making sure your argument has a claim (position), warrant (explanation) and impact (the effect it has) is also very important to making points successfully. A well-thought-out and well-structured argument will win almost every time.
Weigh the Arguments
Weighing arguments means you should take the other person’s rebuttal into account. The most effective way to use this is to argue that, even if their counterpoint is true, your argument is still the most correct. For instance, in the vegetable example, you might argue that, even if meat is delicious and has valuable proteins, vegetables should still be eaten in greater quantities for so-and-so reasons.
In this strategy, it is important to find common ground with your opponent’s argument and consider it when making your own points (unless the two positions mutually exclusive). This is another way to show respect for your opponent’s opinions while still driving your point home.
Remain Calm
Remaining calm is pretty self-explanatory. Even if you think your opponent is saying very closed-minded things, do not let yourself get riled up. Be careful in your choice of words and conscientious of your phrasing.
If you remain calm and collected, not only do you show respect for your opponent, but your points will seem much more valid and you will appear to be a much more credible source.
It’s also important to know when to let things go. If the argument is getting out of hand, make sure you do not cross any lines or become disrespectful. You can learn a lot from other people if you listen to their points in a calm and respectful manner.
If you would like a more in-depth training about how to make your point every time, consider talking to or joining the debate union. Experience with debate will help you not only with argument, but with schoolwork as well. If you are interested, contact Nina Datlof or visit the Debate Union’s office in Dewey 1-204.
Everhart is a member of the class of 2016.
