You said:
explain discursive etiquette and examples of lapses
ChatGPT said:
Discursive etiquette refers to the set of unwritten social rules and norms that guide respectful, productive, and fair communication—especially in discussions, debates, and intellectual or formal conversations. It’s about how we engage with others’ ideas and arguments, ensuring that discourse remains civil, inclusive, and constructive.
Key Principles of Discursive Etiquette
- Respectful Tone
Avoid personal attacks, insults, or sarcasm directed at individuals.
Example: “That’s a naive argument” (discourteous) vs. “I see your point, but I think there’s more complexity to consider.” - Active Listening and Acknowledgment
Demonstrate that you’ve understood the other person’s view before responding.
Example: “If I understand you correctly, you’re saying…” - Staying on Topic
Avoid derailing or changing the subject to score rhetorical points.
Lapse: Shifting a debate about climate policy to a personal attack on someone’s political leanings. - Using Evidence and Logic
Base arguments on facts, reasoning, and credible sources rather than emotion or hearsay.
Lapse: “Everyone knows this is true” without citing any evidence. - Acknowledging Uncertainty or Limits
Recognize when an issue is complex or when you don’t have all the answers.
Lapse: Pretending to have expertise or denying counter-evidence. - No Interruptions or Talking Over Others
Let others finish their thoughts without cutting in. - Avoiding Fallacies and Manipulation
Such as straw man arguments, ad hominem attacks, or appeals to emotion instead of reason.
Example of lapse: “You only think that because you’re privileged.”
Common Lapses in Discursive Etiquette
| Lapse | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Ad hominem attacks | Attacking the person, not the argument | “You’re just saying that because you’re ignorant.” |
| Straw man fallacy | Misrepresenting someone’s argument to make it easier to attack | “You want environmental regulation, so you must hate businesses.” |
| Interrupting | Speaking over or cutting someone off | Jumping in mid-sentence during a panel discussion |
| Dismissiveness | Ignoring or trivializing someone’s argument without fair engagement | “That idea doesn’t deserve a response.” |
| Dogmatism | Refusing to consider other views | “This is the only right way—no debate.” |
Why It Matters
Discursive etiquette is crucial in academic, professional, and public life to ensure:
- Productive conflict and problem-solving
- Respectful coexistence in pluralistic societies
- Critical thinking and better outcomes
Would you like examples of discursive etiquette in specific settings (e.g., classroom, workplace, online forums)?