Debating to Win: a discourse on dialogue with some techniques

Abstract

Debating to Win

a discourse on dialogue with some techniques

prepared by Michael Andregg of St. Paul, Minnesota, USA, November, 2007 for the MBA program of Pusan National University in Pusan, Republic of Korea mmandregg@stthomas.edu

First Principle: There is a vast difference between debate and dialogue, which should be thoroughly understood by people who want to make a difference on this earth.

Second Principle: The concept of “winning” has nuances. What, for example is at stake? What are you trying to win: a classic debate, a court battle, an academic argument, a contract, a boardroom dispute, hearts and minds, or a nuclear war? You should answer this question before selecting technique.

Third Principle: You are usually talking to multiple audiences simultaneously. All audiences matter, but differently. And many audiences use language quite differently.

Fourth Principle: How you say what you say is often more important than what you say. Body language and emotional tone convey more information in many debates than words, and are often more persuasive. But of course, words matter too.

Fifth Principle: Insults are often tempting but usually counterproductive. Whenever possible focus on the message, not the messenger, and avoid attacking critics or opponents personally. Humor is far more powerful, if you can do that well.

That noted, the difference between debate and dialogue is now essential. With dialogue you can be kind to your opponent and better enlighten the entire community. In debate you must “win,” so you may have to destroy his argument or credibility.