Debate or argument?

[Cloud]

Originally Posted by skysidhe

The fine art of debating is lost in text form. Without hearing a persons tone of voice it may seem like an argument when really it is debating.

I agree with this, and I agree with Weird Harold. It mystifies me that people find insults amusing, and confrontation entertaining.

I do not find them so.

Originally Posted by TheMercenary

Either, it is all constructive on some level.

There is a difference between constructive and therapeutic. Debate is often constructive for all parties concerned (opposing and spectator) as it forces reexamination that may either change; or, reinforce opinion. Argument often does not have this effect because it need not revolve around the topic at hand (e.g. it may be a personality conflict). Argument can be cathartic and even therapeutic; but, all too often for only one of the parties involved. Those who believe "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger." might see argument as having a constructive purpose. In reality; however, what doesn't kill a person might cripple them for life.

Originally Posted by Cloud

I agree with this, and I agree with Weird Harold. It mystifies me that people find insults amusing, and confrontation entertaining.

I do not find them so.

When there is argument just for the sake of argument and it becomes a matter of one-upmanship (something of a sport), sometimes there are ingenious plays. It can be very entertaining. Arguments in which the parties are merely venting are not typically entertaining even though they may serve some useful purpose (see above).