Some protocols for Socratic debate
These protocols are specific to debate - but I feel set the tone for any truth-seeking dialogue:
- Why? is a legitimate question. Reasons should always be given when asked for.
- Follow the argument wherever it goes. The debaters are like rafts and the argument is the river.
- The river has rough and calm bits. The aim is to find the sea - not to tip your opponent from his raft.
- ALWAYS listen before responding. In fact to prove you have listened - restate your opposer's argument to check you have heard - before responding.
- The order should be a) data - what was said; b) interpret the data - what did the speaker mean; c) evaluate the argument - was the speaker right or wrong.
- Decide whether to use a formal or informal format (we will be using an informal format).
- Each debater should be given about equal time - or at least as much as he feels he needs.
- Try for an impartial moderator/chairman if the question is contentious.
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