Debate is essential for democracy and a free society, and good faith arguments are valuable contributions to public discourse.
Debating skills can be learned and developed through preparation, learning from others, and practicing techniques for effective debate.
Humor, active listening, and redirecting debates towards substance are key tactics in engaging in fruitful discussions and fostering understanding.
Deep dives
The importance of debate and argument
The author believes that everyone wants to win an argument and that debate is essential for democracy and a free society. He argues against the negative reputation of arguments and emphasizes the value of good faith arguments and debates.
The author's background in debating
The author grew up in a disputatious household and developed a love for argumentation. He honed his debate skills at Oxford University's famous debating society, the Oxford Union. He became a journalist and continued engaging in formal debates in various platforms.
Learning the art of debate
The author believes that debating skills can be learned and developed, dispelling the notion that only certain individuals are natural-born debaters. He emphasizes the importance of preparation, learning from others, and practicing techniques for effective debate.
Using humor and listening in debates
The author acknowledges the role of humor in debates, particularly for diffusing tension and connecting with the audience. He also highlights the significance of active listening, carefully picking arguments to rebut, and using humor to dismantle opponents' weak points.
Balancing winning arguments and respectful discussions
The author acknowledges that winning every argument is not the ultimate goal, especially in discussions aimed at fostering understanding and finding common ground. He highlights the importance of context, good faith, and redirecting debates towards substance rather than personal attacks.
How can we argue in good faith? How can we communicate with confidence? How can we uncover new ideas through the art of debate? Journalist, broadcaster, and best-selling author Mehdi Hasan has made a career out of doing just that. Named one of the 100 'most influential' Britons on Twitter, and included in the annual global list of 'The 500 Most Influential Muslims' in the world, Hasan has become a bit an expert on deconstructing arguments and nudged disagreements toward mutual understanding. His book, "Win Every Argument," seeks to sharpen those skills among its readers, and relay the intrinsic value—and pleasure–of debate. John Donvan sits down with Hasan to go over the tricks of the trade, and examining methods of rooting out truths through argument.
