Clash: How to Attack and Defend Arguments
Debate isn’t just about making your own arguments - it’s about clashing with your opponent’s. Clash is what separates a real debate from two people giving speeches. If you can break down your opponent’s case while defending your own, you’ll control the round.
There are two sides to clash: attacking arguments (refutation) and defending arguments (rebuilding). Strong debaters master both.
Step 1: How to Attack an Argument (Refutation)
When refuting your opponent, you don’t just say, “That’s wrong.” You need to explain why their argument is flawed. The easiest way to do this is the Four-Step Refutation Method:
Identify the Argument - Start by clearly stating which argument you’re refuting. (“My opponent claims that AGI development is immoral because it will harm jobs.”)
Counter the Claim - Explain why their argument is incorrect or weak. (“This assumes that AI will only replace jobs rather than create new industries.”)
Provide Evidence or Logic - Support your refutation with facts or reasoning. (“Historically, automation has led to more job creation in the long run, not less. For example, the rise of computers eliminated some jobs but created entire new fields like software engineering.”)
Explain Why It Matters - Show how this undermines their case. (“Since my opponent’s argument is based on economic harm, and AI could actually improve the economy, their argument does not stand.”)
This method keeps your refutation clear and organized, making it easier for the judge to follow.
Step 2: How to Defend Your Arguments (Rebuilding)
Your opponent will try to tear down your case. If you don’t respond, the judge will assume they are right. Rebuilding your arguments is just as important as attacking theirs. Here’s how to do it:
Point Out Misinterpretations - If your opponent misrepresents your argument, call them out. (“My opponent claims that I said AGI will never be dangerous. I never said that - I only argued that the benefits outweigh the risks.”)
Provide Additional Support - Strengthen your argument with more evidence or reasoning. (“Even if some jobs are lost, new opportunities in AI management and oversight will replace them.”)
Turn Their Argument Against Them - Sometimes, your opponent’s argument can actually help you. (“My opponent argues that AGI will require more regulation. That proves my point - instead of banning AGI, we should focus on responsible oversight.”)
Compare Arguments - Explain why your argument is more important than theirs. (“Even if my opponent’s concerns are valid, economic progress is a bigger priority. Technology has always displaced some jobs, but society benefits in the long run.”)
Step 3: Controlling the Debate
Great debaters don’t just respond - they take control. Here are some extra strategies to dominate clash:
Preemptive Refutation - If you know your opponent’s likely arguments, address them before they even make them. (“Some might argue that AGI will eliminate jobs, but history shows that automation leads to new industries.”)
Use Judge-Friendly Language - Don’t just say “That’s a non-unique argument.” Explain it in plain terms. (“This argument doesn’t matter because it would happen whether we have AGI or not.”)
Stay Organized - Don’t scatter your responses. Address each argument directly, and don’t jump between topics.
The Bottom Line
Clash is the heart of debate. If you can consistently attack weak arguments and defend your own, you’ll stay ahead. The goal isn’t just to respond - it’s to take control and force your opponent to play on your terms.