I think it's good to know how to argue, but I think it's equally important to know how to respect the opinions of another while arguing.
There are times when good arguing skills are crucial. For example, say you know the correct procedure for open heart surgery and your fellow colleague is about to perform it incorrectly. You must argue well in that situation until he realizes that you are, in fact, correct. A life is saved and countless medical lawsuits are avoided. If you know you're absolutely correct, and the argument is as important as this example, be sure to put money on the argument. You might as well make a few bucks when it's all said and done.
On other occasions this skill proves to be valuable, but not entirely important. Arguments over who cleans the most in a household, for example, mean nothing in the long run and gain you nothing more than your pride in the short run when won. You may try to argue it for a moment, simply to hone your skills, but must be sure to concede when you see that the situation begins to feel less intellectually stimulating and more like a fist fight. Injured feelings, broken property and/or jail time are not suitable ends to an argument in a situation like this. Also, be sure never to put money on a trivial issue. This is reckless gambling, which is NOT cool.
Remember: It's good to know how to argue well. It's better to know when to argue well.
-Barry
so, is this like when we argue about who, between you and i, is the pingpong champion of the century? because...i don't know how i'll be able to restrain myself.
ReplyDeletejk barry. great post! i agreed 100% with each word. this would be a good discussion...over some smoked gouda. :)
Wise words. I've been trying, for the past little while, to make "being right" not so important to me. If I know I'm right, I try to take silent, smug pleasure without pushing the issue. But it can be very difficult.
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