Good Faith Debate.
In the previous post in this series I offered some suggestions of how we make the general conditions safer and more conducive for other people to Think in Public (from which we all benefit). But what about our own interactions? How do we stay aware enough of our own biases, blind spots and egos in order to be thoughtful, productive interlocutors? What does it mean to debate ‘in good faith’?
Briefly, for me, Good Faith Debate, means entering into a conversation with a genuinely open mind, willing to hear the other side(s), a sincere willingness to be wrong or to compromise, and to focus on critiquing the argument, not the person.
For me, it looks like this:
●Terms of reference – A debate is a kind of conversational contract, and in the same way it is wise to set out the terms of reference. Do you agree on the definitions of the words/ideas/concepts you are discussing? Are you clear on the other person’s position? Agreeing the ToRs will give you a stronger foundation for productive discussions.
●Disagree don’t dismiss – We sometimes feel so fused to our ideas that when someone disagrees with us we take it as a personal attack, and vice versa. Disentangling the idea from identity helps to prevent us from being forced back into our ideological fortresses.
●Suspend your assumptions – If someone says they believe a do not assume that they also believe b and c. Ask for further clarity on their position. Avoid 𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 people what they think, or arguing what you *think* they believe.
●No expectations – Imagine, when you enter the discussion, that you have travelled to a new planet and you have no idea about this person or what you will encounter. This will help to lower your preconceived biases and stereotypes.
● Give benefit of the doubt – Where there is doubt, avoid making the most hostile interpretation about someone’s meaning or intent. Hostility is a prerequisite for ‘all or nothing’ thinking.
● Stick to the higher levels of debate – more on this soon!