i'm sick of those people that scoff/mock people who argue or debate over the internet (oti) i find that it's actually a very good thing. obviously, you most likely wont win your debate cus most people dont take internet debates seriously....and even if you present a non-retortable, staggering argument, that person will go on thinking they were right anyway
BUT i really find debating oti to be a great way to expand your own views and see things the way others might
how many chances throughout the day do you get to discuss an issue you deem important? not many. but on sites like LW, you just post a new topic expressing how you feel and voila! a whole train of responses come your way, expressing agreements, new ways to look at it, and disagreements
and when you get in a situation in real life where you are debating, you will be all the more practiced on that subject. this time, when they make a point that had taken you aback beforehand due to not knowing the answer or how to reply, you'll have already figured out your answer and will contribute to your argument with it
see? arguing oti isn't something to laugh at someone about. its really great intellectual exercise.
just as long as a person doesn't become obsessed with debating oti..... and starts fights all the time for the silly enjoyment of it......that's just stupid