T-Web debates branching off

[PostHoc]

Does anyone ever notice that alot of the debates on T-Web soon get off the original subject? I've noticed that and I think it is sometimes necessary to prove the point. Most arguments are sequential and if someone's argument is false in just one area, the whole argument falls apart. Pointing this out can sometimes be called "off-topic" but it is really necessary to truly debate someone. Just some thoughts.... anyone concur?

[$cirisme]

You mean like the Martha Stewart thread that turned into a preterism debate?

:hrm: :bunny:

[NSMinistries]

Today @ 10:38 AM post located here (http://www.theologyweb.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&postid=122829#post122829)
cirisme:

You mean like the Martha Stewart thread that turned into a preterism debate?

:hrm: :bunny:

:help: I'm:rofl: that was good....

[Bartholomew]

It seems that most arguments as a matter of course run "off the original subject." This is because, IMHO, most debates must follow a line of argumentation that naturally progresses to a certain, critical debate point upon which all of the previous progression rests. It's like trying to find the "ultimate premise" in the discussion.

I somewhat "concur."

~Matt

[Defenestrator]

06-14-2003 @ 04:34 PM post located here (http://www.theologyweb.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&postid=122828#post122828)
PostHoc:

Does anyone ever notice that alot of the debates on T-Web soon get off the original subject? I've noticed that and I think it is sometimes necessary to prove the point. Most arguments are sequential and if someone's argument is false in just one area, the whole argument falls apart. Pointing this out can sometimes be called "off-topic" but it is really necessary to truly debate someone. Just some thoughts.... anyone concur?

Personally, I think it is the fault of the style of the forum. The messages are posted in sequential order, so multiple conversations go on at once and you have to sift through what is relevant and what isn't. I'm a fan of the CARM-style (http://new.carmforums.org/dc/dcboard.php) forum where the posts are cascaded. I think it allows convos to stay on topic. If someone goes off-topic, the post gets its own "branch" and its easy to ignore, if desired.

[dizzle]

I agree with the first few posts. At times it is wholly necessary.... and if the thread starter or a Moderator sees that it is veerly off nonproductively, such progress can be halted.