Dare to Create Your Own Argument
By Andy Heath
I have a former friend that prided himself on being a great debater. He felt he could attack anyone's argument that dared engage him, but he was often wrong. To be honest, he really was good at destroying other people's arguments, but I think most reasonably intelligent people can find holes in an argument.
I believe the true mark of a great debater is the fact that he or she can create an argument rather than simply rebutting someone else's. How often I have talked to Christians about their religion, and they have told me, "Well, tell me why you don't believe in God, and then I'll tell you where you're wrong." To be honest, this line of argument does not impress me. If I want to convince you to join my church, then it is my responsibility to make a case for you to do so, and it is your privilege to question my arguments.
Have you ever run across the great interrogator? I mean someone that demands that you prove your point without ever taking on the intellectual challenge of proving his. That is what my friend seemed to do? He would stand over me and demand that "explain to him" why I thought this or that. He would never construct his own argument! He would only feed off of the arguments of others and then find holes in those arguments. This is the making of a weak debater.
I believe that arguments are rarely ever necessary, and I am perfectly comfortable simply disagreeing with others from time to time. Though if you are the sort that must make your point, then make it. But don't demand that others fumble around in an argument that only you care about so you can tear them apart without exhibiting any intellectual prowess of your own.
