Online Arguments

 https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/rj8516/what_is_your_best_argument_foragainst_the_death/

I chose to analyze a reddit argument on whether you are for or against the death penalty.  I chose to search through Reddit to find an argument because Reddit is very known as an online site to argue. I landed on the argument about death penalty and noticed a lot of back and forth dialogue with many differing opinions as to why they do or don't support the death penalty. There were both positives and negatives to the conversation to analyze.

The very first thing I noticed that is a concern when arguing is the lack of evidence or support. Through the reddit post, users posted their opinions or made statements without backing up what they were actually saying. For example, one user stated how being falsely accused in not uncommon as a con to the death penalty, however, they provided no data to support this argument. I also noticed that people tend to have negatives attitudes when arguing online. Debates can quickly turn into fighting when there is a screen to hide behind. The last concern I had with how reddit users argued online over the death penalty is the lack of intellectual language. There were some users who provided great arguments; however, there were some who used slang, half-witted, and ignorant language when stating the claims. 

Here are 5 rules to keep in mind when arguing online:

1. Stay focused on the topic being argued

2. Be able to support your claims with evidence

3. Be respectful and create a civil discussion. Avoid using harsh language and aggressive tones

4. Consider your audience; figure out if they will be receptive or not to your claim

5. Be open to new ideas. Arguers need to stay open-minded to create constructive dialogue