http://airamerica.com/really/11-19-2009/how-debate-republican/
How To Debate A Conservative
Thursday November 19, 2009 1:54 a.m.
By Ken Kupchik
Thursday November 19, 2009 1:54 a.m.
By Ken Kupchik
The political climate in America has become more contentious than ever. With the mother of all battles brewing in the Senate over health care reform and a liberal black president in office, our beloved Air Americans face the very real threat this holiday season of coming face to face with an angry mob. Forthwith, a few survival tips.
While you can't avoid speaking to anyone still willing to identify themselves as a Conservative altogether--whether at the Thanksgiving table or in the wider world--there are some precautions we can take to make it a more pleasurable experience. Here are some basic guidelines:
1) Keep your voice low and no sudden movements, either may cause your foe to strike and will be certain to elicit an unpleasant reaction from your Conservative counterpart, typically prefaced by the phrase, "they're ruining this country!"
2) Avoid facts, as they will play absolutely no role in the discussion and may cause your interlocutor to charge, gore (physically), etc. Examples: The mortgage meltdown is Jimmy Carter's fault. 9-11 was a Bill Clinton special. Do not engage.
3) Do not, under any circumstances attempt humor! This also applies to snark and sarcasm, which could easily be misunderstood by the loyal opposition, causing a paradox nearly impossible to escape.
4) Do not get rattled when your opponents declare their adoration for Glenn Beck, Sarah Palin, or Rush Limbaugh. They have been trained to do this. Do not fall for it.
5) Try your best to speak in platitudes, using words like "freedom," and "constitution." This should put you on the same wavelength as the person you're debating, confusing them, and draining their ammunition. Remember your civics class!
6) Always have an exit strategy in case things heat up. Keep one hand on your cell phone, ready to set the ringer off. Be polite and say "I'm sorry, but I need to take this call."
7) Never engage in a debate or political discussion on Facebook unless it is on your own page. Chances are your sparring partner has many friends willing to come to his defense, and you will be virtually overcome.
8) Be sure to know your topic well. It is dangerous to wade into territory that the other side typically has a better grasp on, such as religion, military prowess, and Larry the Cable Guy.
9) Enjoy yourself, and always be as kind as possible. Just because you disagree on politics doesn't mean that you can't find other areas of mutual interest. Puppies are usually a safe bet.
10) Stay home.
*
While you can't avoid speaking to anyone still willing to identify themselves as a Conservative altogether--whether at the Thanksgiving table or in the wider world--there are some precautions we can take to make it a more pleasurable experience. Here are some basic guidelines:
1) Keep your voice low and no sudden movements, either may cause your foe to strike and will be certain to elicit an unpleasant reaction from your Conservative counterpart, typically prefaced by the phrase, "they're ruining this country!"
2) Avoid facts, as they will play absolutely no role in the discussion and may cause your interlocutor to charge, gore (physically), etc. Examples: The mortgage meltdown is Jimmy Carter's fault. 9-11 was a Bill Clinton special. Do not engage.
3) Do not, under any circumstances attempt humor! This also applies to snark and sarcasm, which could easily be misunderstood by the loyal opposition, causing a paradox nearly impossible to escape.
4) Do not get rattled when your opponents declare their adoration for Glenn Beck, Sarah Palin, or Rush Limbaugh. They have been trained to do this. Do not fall for it.
5) Try your best to speak in platitudes, using words like "freedom," and "constitution." This should put you on the same wavelength as the person you're debating, confusing them, and draining their ammunition. Remember your civics class!
6) Always have an exit strategy in case things heat up. Keep one hand on your cell phone, ready to set the ringer off. Be polite and say "I'm sorry, but I need to take this call."
7) Never engage in a debate or political discussion on Facebook unless it is on your own page. Chances are your sparring partner has many friends willing to come to his defense, and you will be virtually overcome.
8) Be sure to know your topic well. It is dangerous to wade into territory that the other side typically has a better grasp on, such as religion, military prowess, and Larry the Cable Guy.
9) Enjoy yourself, and always be as kind as possible. Just because you disagree on politics doesn't mean that you can't find other areas of mutual interest. Puppies are usually a safe bet.
10) Stay home.
*
11) Delete before posting.
Air Amerika is a bunch of BEMRs.
BEMR
No comments:
Post a Comment