RE: Argument, Debate, Discussion, and some things that don't work...
This is why I homeschooled. My kids now have the ability to think, and know how to learn.
I recently was graced with a comment from a flat Earther regarding a post on Mars colonization. I entered into debate with a few questions intended to elicit critical thinking. This offer was declined, and more circular thinking was the response.
I then let loose both barrels of questions that left no doubt on being answered as to the possibility that the Earth is flat, and was rewarded with a complete ignorance of my reply, and ad hominem.
At some point, it becomes obvious that there are people incapable of thinking in anyway that isn't just following a particular herd. That is the point to just decline to continue to participate, and spend your effort on people that are capable of actual thought.
Thanks for pointing out that critical thinking is the basis for reasonable debate, and thus making sound decisions!
I've found a moment of hope I can share. I can tell you I've now witnessed on more than one occasion such people acting just like you said. I'd encounter them months or years later to hear them debating with someone else and getting it. They then understood.
I've come to realize that in these exchanges that can be frustrating that just because you didn't appear to convince them of something doesn't mean you did not plant seeds that will grow over time and do just that.
This makes it worth it I think regardless of whether I get the instant gratification of them changing their mind.
Well, that is encouraging news. Unfortunately, I saw no sign that the flat Earther even bothered to read my comment. Time will tell, I suppose, and it isn't important to me that I somehow get credit, or anything.
I just want people to reason. A lot.