Posted by
Scottie on Monday, November 06, 2006 11:00:36 AM
Often I see people arguing over a point that deserves little attention. An opinion or argument is presented and an accusation is hurled back in response that completely derails the conversation. The Left seem particularly adept at this verbal ju-jitsu. Instead of supporting a rational position, one is left defending against an accusation not supported by the original opinion. Perhaps the best response to these accusations is: “I reject the premise!” Here are a few examples.
I oppose same-sex marriage; I also reject the premise that I am homophobic.
I support secure borders; I reject the premise that I am a racist.
I oppose abortion; I also reject the premise that I am a misogynist.
I oppose affirmative action; I reject the premise that I am a bigot.
I support gun rights; I reject the premise that I am somehow deranged.
In each of the couplets above, the first portion is a considered opinion arrived at after long reflection, research and deliberation. But they are opinions, not facts, and therefore subject to change. In presenting these opinions, debates often ensue. This is after all part of the deliberative process. A good debate with a worthy opponent is a crucible for distilling truth if one keeps one’s head and remains open to the ideas received.
The premises that follow each opinion however, are all non-sequiturs. The premises show a lack of reflection, knowledge and deliberation. They are all cheap conversation stoppers, but beyond that have no real merit or intellectual gravitas. If one were to reflect on these premises, their absurd nature is evident. If one were to research the basis for these premises, where would one begin? Each premise above serves particularly to eliminate any deliberation or discernment of the underlying issues. Put simply, these are little verbal stink bombs, issued in order to escape the discomfort of mental effort on the part of the person delivering them.
To combat these little gems and others like them is folly. The opponent delivering them has no real argument to present or they would have made one. They are sufficient evidence to conclude you are wasting your time. These are signals that you are dealing with a bankrupt or dishonest intellect. Rather than sputtering that you are not homophobic, or bigoted, or whatever, reject the premise and return to your original position. Keep the focus on what your real position is, and know in your bones that you have already won.