Use Argument Sparingly - Better To Share And Discuss

What part does argument play?

Does it have any place in our life and in our actions?

To defend or question our position is one thing, but just to argue quite another.

Reasoned thought is helpful, but is remonstration ever really warranted?

Can we sustain our position? Are we talking from a position of strength or weakness? Why would we want to try to justify our case or stance?

• Just for the sheer h**l of it?
• To be awkward or divisive?
• To waste time?
• Because we can?

Why should we want to dispute things? Are we that self-centered or self-absorbed?

It may appear fun to start with but is a great way to lose friends.

Argument has a rightful place in communication. The flavor is different from discussion or friendly banter. It takes things to another level.

The level of

• dispute, or potential dispute. I do not believe what you say or distrust it or think my idea is better
• controversy, where one 'protagonist' says something for effect or throws in a contentious point or idea
• disagreement is the common one. And is fine if that both sides can accept the others point of view. Where this proves difficult things can escalate
• remonstration where one party cannot let go and goes on and on - and probably loses credibility in so doing
• misunderstanding. These can be resolved but demands thought and humility on all sides
• clash of ideas or values. Can be productive with learning and sharing taking place, or a real clash where swords are drawn and battle rages
• feud. Often where some lost in time dispute continues out of momentum rather than logic or real feeling

the level is dependent upon who is participating, the topic and what each person is hoping to gain or willing to accept or barter or share.

We should be careful that productive and enlightening communication does not descend into an altercation. And where logic or reason, feeling or consideration, are left on the sidelines, and all that occurs is raised voices, anger or resentment. And no one wants to lose face. (Yet perhaps they have in letting things drop this far.)