Uncivil Speech

1. Name-calling  (pinhead, jerk, bozo, idiot, moron, stupid, etc.)
2. Attacks on character.
3. Intentional distortion of opponent’s/opponents’ views and argument.
4. Humor directed at the person of the opponent so as to cause shame or embarrassment.
5. Monopolizing the discussion.
6. Sloppy argumentation; attempts at obfuscation in order to win the argument.
7. Return abuse with abuse.

Civil Speech

1. Respect for the other no matter how much you disagree (Don’t call him fool.  Comment that his argument is unwise).  Address him/her respectfully.
2. No derogatory references to the person’s character, in fact, no references to the person’s character.
3. Carefully lay out the opposing party’s position, as you heard it, so that you are sure that you have it right.  Ask questions for clarification.
4. Humor pertinent to the topic, but not to the embarrassment of the interlocutor.  Self-effacement is proper as long as it is not intended to manipulate.
5. Giving the other person an opportunity to express his views and ask questions.
6. Carefully laying out one’s argument in a clear and coherent way.
7. Return respect for abuse.

A public dialogue should be well structured so as to help minimize abuses.

At a later time we will discuss one on one or small group conversations

 

Michael G. Tavella

July 22, 2019