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On Life: A Few Helpful Definitions and Laws
Paul’s Definitions:
A discussion (debate) is an attempt to determine the truth. Discussions have facts and citations.
An argument is attempt to prove who is right. Arguments have personal attacks, inuendo, and substitute resume’s for citations.
Beware the arguments trying to be passed off as debate (particularly political and theological arguments).
A moderators is someone who facilitates and guides discussions while discouraging and defusing argument and diversions. A good moderator will help guide discussions. Discussions should be encouraged with positive public comments. Arguments should be defused with humor and friendly private reminders to anyone starting turning things into arguments.
Paul’s Laws:
Paul’s first law states that the safety of an activity is determined by how forgiving of mistakes the activity is.
Paul’s second law states that the difference between an adventurer and an explorer is whether the doing or the learning comes first.
Posted by Paul Gernhardt on Thursday, October 30, 2008