You can add the following caveats to everything I write online.
- If it doesn’t directly apply to you, feel free to move along
I’m usually writing for a broad audience and just trying to get people thinking. If I’m interested in starting a debate or argument with a specific individual, I will say so directly. - If you think reality is more complicated than what I wrote, you’re right
All communication is an oversimplification of reality. The shorter my post, the more I’ve purposefully left out. - I will (almost) never get into extended arguments online
If you still think you really need to say something, write your own post, write me an email, send me a letter, etc. (Just don’t call me, I’m a Millennial!)
Finally, I’m just as susceptible to cognitive biases and logical fallacies as anyone else. Nevertheless, I’d like to do my best to stick to the following Rules of Civil Conversation. And I ask that you consider doing the same.
I resolve to:
- Try and reach a shared understanding rather than ‘win the argument’.
- Clarify with others to make sure I genuinely understand their perspective.
- Endeavor to avoid committing logical fallacies in support of my claims.
- Attempt to account for my own biases and try to be intellectually humble.
- Try to be reasonable, rational, and create coherent arguments.
- Refrain from personal attacks, sarcasm, and mean-spiritedness.
- Use the ‘Principle of Charity’ to see the merits of others’ points of view in the best light.
- Remain genuinely receptive to changing my mind if presented with compelling arguments or evidence