Occasionally people ask how to argue well on the internet, so I'd like to introduce you to the two simple rules for productive internet conversations: 1. Always reply calmly 2. Never assume ill intent
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And sometimes - even often - you might assume someone is being disingenuous when they just aren't. It's so easy to assume ill intent from 280-character responses when they were not meant that way at all
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If you follow these rules, you'll: a) get into fewer fights online b) potentially convince some people c) not look like a dickhead d) not BE a dickhead (most important)
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Also, this is only if you WANT to engage someone. If you feel like it's a waste of time, hurtful, or even if you just can't be bothered, block/mute/ignore and move on. Not every discussion is worth it!
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Moreover, this schema only works with people who aren't heinous - if someone is being clearly racist/homophobic etc having a useful discussion is unlikely No online argument is worth damaging your mental health!
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End of conversation
New conversation -
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Killing them with kindness & politeness. It's definitely doable, and - most importantly - it really works.
Thanks. Twitter will use this to make your timeline better. UndoUndo
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