What is the best way to defend your stance without using statistics?

Question

It seems to me that so many people toss around statistics to support their arguments.

But that is flawed because even if a link to the source is provided, the statistics could be fabricated by a company or political party with an agenda.

For istance, the "news" source World Net Daily makes up their own statistics to suit whatever "family-values" spin they are trying to market.

So what are some better ways to defend our positions in a debate?

Answer 1

I totally agree with you on statistics.  You can make the same set of numbers say different things depending on the agenda you are pushing.

To answer you question, how about "cause and effect" approach?

Answer 2

The best way to defend your stance is to make sure that you honestly have all the facts and be sure you are right.  The rest will take care of itself eventually.

Answer 3

logic

Answer 4

Try the truth, with facts to back up what ever side you are on in a debate. If you are speaking of a school debate, there are times when you are to defend something you don't believe in personally, but facts & truth usually win out. Most things are not all black & white; there are shades of gray, at times you must use these to make a point. By all means, hold your temper when the opposition disagrees with you. Remember, its only a debate!

You are absolutly correct, statistics can be made to prove what ever the party conducting the poll decides them to indicate.

Answer 5

Don't step into a discussion unless have valid information. Always reiterate statements from news sources like National Public Radio that have reliable indisputable reputations.

Answer 6

Seriously? One needs to read a variety of newspapers, and News channels- Research. Don't think that "Fox news" is a message from God. . .

Bottom line, do your homework before you spout off!

Answer 7

Perhaps the best stance to take when defending yourself is legs apart, knees slightly bent, slightlly crouched so you keep your balance, and aim your first two fingers of yoiur right hand for the eyes, and your left hand in a fist,  aiming for the groin. If you do strike, mean business, and starting with the eyes, give them the "old 1 -2."

Answer 8

- case studies

- quotes from the people who are affected by a certain issue on what they think of the issue or problem

Answer 9

Use reason. Not emotions and whining like the liberals. Not fear mongering and threats like the fake conservatives.

Answer 10

If we go by the Cons' strategy, I would say name-calling.

Answer 11

5 out of every 4 statistics are made up on the spot :-)

just kidding... an way would be to use personal experience facts or find a few people that have been on that particular position and the results, a case study can be more influential than many stats.