How To Have Productive Philosophical Conversations

Use this philosophy forum to discuss and debate general philosophy topics that don't fit into one of the other categories.

This forum is NOT for factual, informational or scientific questions about philosophy (e.g. "What year was Socrates born?"). Those kind of questions can be asked in the off-topic section.
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Trokanmariel
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Re: How To Have Productive Philosophical Conversations

Post by Trokanmariel »

Though its a trivial physics cynicism, the art of productive philosophical discussion is via the art of listening intently and waiting for ones turn to address.
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avaregidor
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Re: How To Have Productive Philosophical Conversations

Post by avaregidor »

Some of the main points that the post makes are:

• Philosophy is not about winning arguments or proving others wrong, but about exploring ideas and seeking truth.
• Philosophical conversations should be based on evidence, logic, and clarity, not on emotions, biases, or fallacies.
• Philosophical conversations should be open-minded, curious, and humble, not dogmatic, arrogant, or dismissive.
• Philosophical conversations should be cooperative, collaborative, and supportive, not competitive, adversarial, or hostile.
• Philosophical conversations should be enjoyable, stimulating, and enriching, not boring, frustrating, or exhausting.

I agree with most of these points and I think they are very relevant and applicable to any kind of discussion or debate. I also like how the post gives some practical examples and suggestions on how to implement these tips and guidelines in real situations. For instance, the post advises to:

• Ask questions and listen actively to understand the other person's perspective and reasoning.
• Acknowledge the strengths and weaknesses of your own position and the other person's position.
• Provide reasons and evidence for your claims and opinions and ask for the same from the other person.
• Avoid personal attacks, insults, or name-calling and focus on the arguments and issues at hand.
• Respect the other person's right to disagree and agree to disagree when necessary.

I think that following these suggestions can help improve the quality and outcome of any philosophical conversation. I also think that having philosophical conversations can be beneficial for our personal growth and development, as well as for our social and intellectual skills. By engaging in philosophical conversations, we can:


• Learn new things and expand our knowledge and understanding of different topics and perspectives.
• Challenge our own assumptions and beliefs and test our critical thinking and reasoning skills.
• Express our thoughts and opinions clearly and persuasively and improve our communication and argumentation skills.
• Appreciate the diversity and complexity of human thought and experience and enhance our empathy and tolerance skills.
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