When Conversation Become A Battle.....

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Whilst I know a few basic rules that help me get by in everyday conversation, there is always an issue of what happens when discussion gets heated (when discussing contraversial issues, especially if they involve politics or religion - two things I love discussing but find it's a taboo amongst most for some inexplicable reason).

At that point, I find the bit of my brain that makes what I say NT-acceptable instead finds itself devoted to winning the argument at any cost. I will dissect the comments of others, point out any or all of the flaws in what they are saying, raise my voice if needed to get a word in edgeways, use pieces of obscure knowledge or vague memories to aid my points and then derive great satisfaction when my opponent cracks and admits defeat. I'm a conversational pile-driver.

Apparently, this makes me unpopular. My dad used to blow his top during such arguments. But I really miss a good, no-holds barred debate. Has anyone experienced anything similar?

You just can't leave something alone if it's wrong? I'm like that. I'm always talking about politics and my parents hate it and always disagree then say "I'm too tired to talk about politics" when I'm about to "win" the debate. I get alot of cold shoulders the days following a good, hearty political discussion.

Honestly, I stopped talking about the things I'm really interested in precisely because I see myself cutting loose just like that when I run into some thick-headed numbskull who insists on blathering about things he doesn't know about.

I can't stand conflict, so rather than cut loose like that, I've taken up the habit of simply refusing to get into the conversation in the first place. It's not always the case, but 9 times out of 10, I'll avoid the conflict by avoiding the conversation.

Of course, some thick-headed numbskulls hate to admit they're wrong. They're the worst kind - it relatively easy to point out the flaws in their argument by objectively pointing out the flaws in their argument, but they really don't like it if you do that. Usually at this point, a 3rd party do-gooder sticks their oar in to prevent a confrontation. I hate that.

I think what you're talking about. Is why chat fights were invented.

Yeah I know what you mean about sticking up for things that are wrong.

I know what you mean, my dad was one of those with irrational arguments and silly reasoning on some issues, which lead to confrontation at times, I eventually learnt to just let it slide and keep my mouth shut to protect my sanity.

There is one piece of advice I think holds very true, and that is: Never argue with an idiot.

You can't win because they will never see sense, so you are just wasting your time. Even if you do psychologically beat them into submission then they will hate your guts because of it.