18
Dispatch → Bulletin → Policy
by 
The Republic of Worst Cabinet Aide.
.
131 reads.
On Why We Are Considered an Evolved Species, or How to Argue like a Polite Primate
also known as Liberlandia’s Rules of Conduct for Debate
Fig. 1: Example of a debate which doesn’t follow these rules.
Liberlandia is a region based on the respect and enshrining of the fundamental rights of every individual, including notably that to freedom of expression, particularly at the time of manifesting one’s ideology and challenging that of others in a learning effort. Liberlandia, basing the bulk of its regional experience in the off-site forums of Discord, offers a unique environment for people to discuss history, religion, philosophy, current events, etc. However, stemming from this very love for liberty, many problems may arise. Many of the deadliest poisons to an intellectually fertile agora are listed below, and are what we here consider argumentative malpractice. For the safety of the region, and in order to maintain a positive and healthy site for all to share ideas, The Watch, or the region’s in situ moderation team, will enforce Liberlandian law in day-to-day miscellaneous debates. These few, and straightforward laws, kept brief to reduce misinterpretations and misunderstandings, are the following:
Note no.1: The fundamental rules are written in the colour gold. It is however advised very strongly to read the whole set of rules as they include relevant extensions of themselves and some examples.
1. Speech that is intended solely, or partly, for the purposes of spreading, including but not limited to, targeted hatred towards a group of individuals based off of criterion such as ‘race’, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, etc. will not be tolerated. Use common sense, don’t push jokes too far or you will face consequences; trolling and dark humour are allowed, but at your own risk.
2. Spamming is not allowed. Additionally, if someone does not want to be pinged, kindly respect this person’s choice, or you might be warned.
3. In the case of intervention from The Watch (the moderation team), comply with the given verdict, avoid ban-evading, and, whilst appealing is allowed…
4. Do not argue in bad faith. Whether this is you debating a fellow Liberlandian Sovereign State, or appealing a mute, kick, or ban, do not engage in this malicious behaviour, it’ll warrant you an ill reputation and might lead to many members of the community ignoring you.
5. In many debates, citations are not required. Nonetheless, it is considered good practice to hint at your sources, and/or reference these appropriately when asked.
Below is an example of good use of statistics.
I.e. “I remember reading in a report by [x source] that it is advised to eat no more than 2-3 bags of crisps a week.”
“Oh yeah? Mind sending the study?”
“Sure, here it is: [y cited source, link, or document].”
6. When joining an active debate, avoid changing the subject, instead, participate in the one at hand or wait for the matter to be settled. Not doing this will be perceived negatively by many members of the community.
7. Do not engage in arguments or discussions on certain debate topics if there is a relevant thread for it. The Watch will remind you of this if you do not follow this rule.
Below is an example of a debate topic which has been moved in a thread.
I.e. Debate on the conflict between Israel and Palestine, being a subject approached regularly, is located exclusively in the thread named “On Israel-Palestine”.
8. Requests to refocus debate on fundamental statements will be entertained to avoid excessive side-tracking and ‘degeneration’ of conversation. If you believe arguments are deviating excessively from the original issue, invoke this rule.
9. Ad Hominem attacks, or arguments “appealing to feelings or prejudices rather than intellect (or substance)” (Merriam-Webster Dictionary), are strictly prohibited. Again, employ common sense to differentiate between noticeable jokes and these prejudiced statements. Building upon this…
10. Never take debates personally. If someone disagrees with you, or justifies their ideas in a more sound way, it doesn’t mean they hate your guts. Kindly keep in mind that, paraphrasing how Machiavelli put it, “[Disagreement is what kept Rome afloat]” (The Prince). The Watch will severely punish those who harass other Liberlandian Sovereign States in private messages or public forums.
Written by 
Hemogard and 
Gotawa, proofread by the Cabinet, 31st of October of the year 2024.
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