Engage in the debate or stay home?

I never imagine changing the mind of others through debate. Debate is a waste of time, a lying contest, and adolescent.

So why engage?

In a debate, just to keep your skills sharp, recognize your faults, and improve your style. Especially your style.

Your skills should focus on learning the other person's method of attack. If your opponent provokes, lies, uses anger, has no sources, quotes horrible sources, ... relax. You've won.

If you have won, keep your skills sharp so you don't convert victory into failure. Mildly agree with some minor point, build your point of view, and win the high ground.

If they are angry, point that out but don't gloat. "I don't know why you are so angry. This is just conversation. We're just talking."

Withdraw if the anger persists but still don't gloat. "I can't help you with your anger. Maybe we can talk another time when you feel more like talking."

But what is your style?

Are you a geek with statistics? A policy wonk who remembers the authors of bills, the bill number, and when it passed? Do you only goad your opponent into anger? Do what's right for you but don't think of winning your opponent over to your side.

Here's the final rule. Engage only when there is an audience listening. An audience matters.

If you're ambushed and alone, fight as needed. If you're in front of mostly neutral or decent people, win respect for yourself and your beliefs.

If you can do that, the bullies will lose and keep losing.