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@IwantRooseveltagain
Correction: if you call the statement stupid, that’s on topic. If you call them stupid, you’re using a personal attack and, as I already said, are off topic.
No, if someone makes a statement that is stupid and I call them stupid it is completely on topic
You can call the statement stupid, not the person who makes it.Saying that someone is stupid is not an argument. Anyone can say it to anyone.
so if someone tells a lie, you can call the statement a lie but not the person a liar?
Yes. You can call the claim a lie and explain why it’s a lie. You cannot call the person a liar. In fact, in debates, you are dealing with claims and reasons, not with other persons. How hard is it to stick to that rule?
Yes. You can call the claim a lie and explain why its a lie. You cannot call the person a liar. In fact, in debates, you are dealing with claims and reasons, not with other persons. How hard is it to stick to that rule?
Moreover, insults create a hostile environment that can prevent meaningful dialogue.
Not all wrong statements are lies. Jumping to the conclusion that someone is lying when they make a mistake or have incorrect information can be hurtful and insulting. In an open and respectful forum, we should all give people the benefit of the doubt. Assume innocence before guilt. Assuming that someone is lying right away without considering the possibility of an honest mistake can create a hostile and confrontational environment.
So in your world, someone who lies is not a liar? Or you just can’t say what people are?
That is why it is important to have the option of calling people a moron.
Forum debate is like a court room.
But you can not call them a liar.
If we have a forum where people just call each other names
You're not changing anyone's mind here
Just be polite
Insults are only necessary if you don't have strong evidence to make a case.
Barrack Obama is polite. He doesn't need to insult people
Court cases are ruled according to the evidence....not because one lawyer called the defendant a poopyhead
You are getting frustrated so insults are all you have left