Debate Skills

In a historical moment where it seems necessary to have an opinion on any subject, it is very interesting to observe the debates. These appear as a natural element of the social relationship: we usually see them in different contexts such as social networks, television or other media. Hence, it is important to have certain skills for debate: we never know when we can get involved in one.

On the other hand, the ability to debate is a type of skill that is practiced often, but on which little thought is given. Thus, if we break with tradition, we will realize that skills for debate can be developed. The educational field has relegated this type of training to specific studies, because, although debate skills are often spoken of as transversal skills, the truth is that many times, not being specifically in the plan of any subject, they end up being skills absent.

In addition, critical thinking and argumentation and refutation techniques are essential tools to defend an argument or an idea. Social networks are a perfect field for the development of these skills. Thus, when we analyze the disputes that take place in them, it is easy to identify different gaps in communication. The most common, and sad at the same time, is usually the little respect for those who do not share the ideas defended.

Critical thinking and analytical skills

Critical thinking is one of the skills for debate. It implies being able to think reflectively, differentiating solid arguments from mere mirages. Being critical, we will appreciate that on many occasions opinions are formed based on the mere repetition of arguments created by campaigns aimed precisely at creating a certain current of opinion.

Critical thinking goes the other way. It is based on logical thinking and critical analysis of ideas or dogmas so as not to reach hasty conclusions. Avoid biased analysis, euphemisms and arguments that are based on assumptions.

As we’ve already noted, the good news is that critical thinking can be trained. It begins by consciously choosing the source of information. On the other hand, it is important to separate the information from the medium from which we have obtained it. It is true that the medium may or may not inspire confidence, but that does not exempt us from critically analyzing information that we are going to give as an argument in a debate.

The argumentation

Presenting an argument, or a series of arguments, consists of providing information and reasons to defend an opinion. Especially when an issue is open to debate or discussion. We start from the basis of critical thinking with which the idea to be defended has been analyzed and reflected upon. The argument has several elements:

• Although it seems obvious, the object of the argument is an element to consider. You should know what is being debated, if it is the economic or political situation or any other issue. And you must have knowledge on the subject, not just opinion.
• The thesis, or the main idea that it is intended to defend. It is the idea, or ideas, on which the argument will revolve. It is convenient to have the concept clear and present it correctly.
• The body : It is the development of the ideas or positions that are intended to be defended. This is where the object to be discussed is reflected on from all possible angles. It is made up of two elements: the argumentation and the refutation of the contrary arguments.
• The conclusion : It can be affirmative, when its arguments are as explanatory of the object of debate. Or it can be of a suggested nature, when no definitive conclusions have been reached and research or future developments on the subject are suggested. On the other hand, it is important to know how to close a debate when it has already exhausted its course or the positions are very rocked.

The rebuttal

The refutation is based on finding the inconsistency in the opposing argument. For example, we have all been tempted at times to generalize from personal experiences, reaching the wrong conclusions.

In addition to the possible gaps, it must be taken into account that for each argument there is a counter argument, the idea that refutes it. To this one must apply the same parameters of logic and critical thinking as the initial argumentation; otherwise the inconsistency will be served.

That is why one of the skills for debate is to intelligently handle counter-arguments. That is to say, at a certain moment, when someone has made the mistake of overgeneralizing, we may be interested in transferring the idea to a broader context. For example, if you are discussing an economic law that does seem to work for one country, it may be good to see how it works in the economy of other countries or even at other levels.

Some techniques to develop debate skills

Acquiring debate skills is a strength that will serve us countless times and in many different areas of our lives. It requires intelligence for analysis and resources that have been well trained. Some resources that can help us are simple, such as the use of rational arguments based  on ideas already accepted by society and that, in general, relate cause and effect or are based on analogies.

The ability to debate is an art that can be acquired and trained. It is a social skill with a very high return: grateful, bearing good results, if we want to invest in it. In this sense, there are training courses and skills training for debate where you can acquire all the techniques and resources for it.