The Jimmy Akin Podcast #010 James White’s Gish Gallop (Debater’s Tactic) - Jimmy Akin
19 snips
Nov 18, 2024 
James White, a renowned Protestant debater, joins to dissect the Gish Gallop tactic, where debaters overwhelm opponents with trivial claims to sidestep critical issues. The conversation dives into ethical concerns surrounding this tactic, especially in debates on Sola Scriptura. Listeners learn how to navigate these discussions by focusing on substantial arguments and the role of apostolic tradition. Practical tips are offered for countering overwhelming claims, ensuring clarity amid confusion in theological debates.
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Gish Gallop Explained
- The Gish Gallop involves overwhelming an opponent with many low-level claims, wasting their time and distracting from core issues.
- It's often used when one senses their own argument is weak and aims to shift the burden of proof.
Akin's Debates with White
- Jimmy Akin discusses his debates with James White on Sola Scriptura and justification.
- He claims White used the Gish Gallop tactic in both debates, raising numerous low-level or irrelevant points.
Handling a Gish Gallop
- When facing a Gish Gallop, point out the tactic to the audience.
- Stick to the main topic; don't get sidetracked.