Debate and discussion etiquette for scientists

As scientists, we are faced with many debates both professionally and scholastically. Understanding the decorum of a debate can help you deliver your arguments while also remaining respectful to other parties.

Attack the idea, not the person. The most important aspect of debating is to focus on the ideas presented, rather than the one presenting them.

Attacking someone on a personal level is usually a no go in all situations, thus it is a given that it should be banned from the debate room, workplace, and online areas for debate as well.

Always remain polite. This is conveyed in how you speak to your fellow scientist, how you speak about past scientists, and how you communicate with the judges – should you be in a debate room.

A good level of empathy should be present. You may not agree with what is being said but you should give the speaker or writer a chance to explain their thought process.

(If they are unable to do this, agree to disagree and walk away. Sources, research, and logical reasoning are the base of science.)

Maintaining your composure is also necessary. You want your professional or community relationship to remain intact despite the disagreement. A mutual level of respect should always be in place.

Make sure your arguments are structured well. Are your arguments coherent? Do they make sense?

In addition to the core elements one has acquired through education (reading and finding sources, writing and drafting, speaking confidently and being able to listen), it is also vital to be able to present in a way that is simply graspable by the audience.

To quote Einstein, “If you can’t explain it simply, you don’t understand it well enough.”

In conclusion, be precise, concise, polite, and always respectful of others. This creates a safe space for disagreement and a community, workplace, and debate area in which everyone can express their opinion in a more constructive way.