Can't we all just debate respectfully?

To debate respectfully, you have to have respect for other people. To have respect others, you must be taught manners.And you must be taught to listen not just hear what you want to hear. But since there is a lack of manners being taught and some believe that they aren't respected so they not respect anyone else, there are only a few people that can debate respectfully.Another ingredient is arrogance. The arrogance of thinking that you position is the Only correct position and all others are wrong or sinful.

I agree with you to a point. These are called discussions not debates. But in any case people do get overworked and yes from a simple discussion grows to a heated debate.

I agree! I don't understand anger.. private exasperation at times.. sure! But anger, disdain, or disrespect, I do not understand. I figure all people (and groups) are right about some things and wrong about others (and I suppose that includes me:) tongue in cheek! - I think part of the problem isn't just intolerance, but sometimes is a misunderstanding of what was said.. especially in forums, as tone of voice can be imagined.. I think we can rush to response thinking someone said something they never even really said.. Also I think it comes in real handy to reread our responses and posts, and tame them down just a little.. or soften any edges.. just in case! Anyway, this is my usual approach.. and I hope it helps, as I am rather solid in my opinions.. but other's opinions don't usually bother or anger me. I usually can see more sides of an issue than just my own..

I see what you're saying, and I agree. However, if someone is being a total moron, what is wrong with admitting it? :~D

It takes a certain level of maturity to be able to debate and a lot of people don't have that. I love to debate, I will go heads up with anyone. The secrets to a good debate, to me, is never make personal attacks, agree to disagee, and still be friends when all is said and done.

Repsect is OVERRATED!!!!!!! Get over it!!!! j/k

Thats the great thing about having free will. If everyone always could agree and disagree on the same subjects what a boring world would we live in. Having a good debate on issues is good because you can see where others stand and who is in agreement with you and who is in disagreement with you. A peaceful debate is always best but that can ever rarely happen anymore because someone always get offended and it gets ugly after that.