Controversy entails the use of argument. Real argument. Unfortunately, some confuse argument with assertion. What do I mean by this? 

An argument, in its proper sense, is a reason or reasons given for or against a particular proposition. It is the because that follows any assertion. Using argumentation involves reasoning, making inferences, and applying these to the proposition under discussion. In this sense, an argument has no negative connotations. Through solid argumentation, we can grow in mind and understanding. 

Some confuse the above with “argument” in the negative sense, where one just asserts something to be true without offering solid reasons. In this sense one just “argues” with another by disagreeing or objecting by assertion. There are no solid reasons attached to the assertions. There is no logical flow. The argument is merely expressing an opinion that differs, yet provides no real reasons why it is right other than the say-so of the individual. “This is true.” Why? Because it is. I said it. End of discussion. 

An argument, in the proper sense, is a reasonable and honorable endeavor. However, an “argument” in the negative sense is worthless. Assertions without reason are, at best, frustrating, when engaging in discussion.  

A proper argument is stated in a way that leads to a valid conclusion. For example, here is deductive argument: 

All that is material had a beginning. 

The earth is material. 

Therefore,

The earth had a beginning. 

This is valid (where validity has to do with the form of the argument and the conclusion is inevitable). Assuming that words are defined appropriately, if the propositions are true and the form is valid, then we have a sound argument. If one were to object to this, he would have to do so on the basis of challenging either the validity of the form or the truth of one of the propositions. Since the form is valid, then the only real challenge to this would have to be dealing with the truth of the propositions. 

A follow up in a discussion like this would be to consider the question, “Why should we accept the proposition x?” The answer would be to provide reasons for why that proposition is true.  

On the other hand, an “argument,” negatively, is often just an interjection of objections and assertions. These can vary from “You’re wrong” to “You’re stupid.” 

One might say, “Here are some reasons why you should accept that Proposition X is true.” One interjects at this point, “Anyone who believes that proposition is just dumb.” The discussion is over. Assertion overpowered argument, and nothing good was accomplished. 

Kids are often heard arguing this way. How many times do we hear kids yelling at each other, “Yes!” “No!” Yes!” “No!” “I’m right; you’re wrong.” There is no sense or reason. It is just a yelling match to see who can hold out the longest. I suppose this is to be expected among the immature. It is not acceptable when trying to have a serious discussion. 

In the face of a controversial issue, some just state an objection, yet they provide no real argumentation. They may call into question the intelligence of the other person. They may indicate that anyone who can’t see it their way is not very intelligent. Yet they still offer no logical reason or argumentation for the position they hold. They may even be nice about their objection, stating that they just think this is the way it is, but they still make no real argument for or against the position. They state a position as if it were a fact, but give no evidence or reason to back it up. Any evidence to the contrary of their position is simply written off with no thought of actually considering it. 

Are we not seeing this more and more in the age of social media? Logical argumentation is a difficult process. It requires critical thinking. It requires challenging our own thinking and attempting to formulate a position in a logical and concise manner. It is much easier just to object and leave it at that, feeling frustrated because the other person is just being stubborn. Often a discussion is abandoned with a simple, “we’ll just have to agree to disagree,” even before the hard work of providing real argumentation has begun. We want to state our objections, but we feel we don’t have time to develop the position we hold. 

Due to the frustrations, people will say something to the effect that they don’t want to “argue” about this or that. They are using “argue” in the negative sense. They have made their assertions, and even though they have not really attempted to formulate a logical argument, they are ready to quit discussing. The discussion ends with no one improving for the better. 

It’s not good enough just to say, “I believe x,” when we are trying to convince and convert. “I believe x because…” is how a more reasonable and responsible discussion will ensue. “I disagree” by itself is irrelevant. “I disagree because…” at least opens the door for further consideration. 

Christians will find that real argumentation is to be part of their defense of Christ. Being disciples involves being critical thinkers. Defending Christ or making an argument for a particular biblical position requires reasoning, inferences, definition, stating positions in well-defined manner. The subjects we deal with, whether with unbelievers or among one another are often controversial and they are bound to spark disagreement. If we are going to take positions, then we need to do so in an honorable way. We should learn to employ the proper use of “argument.” We need to learn how to avoid fallacies (I’m not saying I do so perfectly—far from it—but shall we not educate ourselves in this process and strive to learn how to better engage discussion?). It is not good enough just to state an objection or make an assertion. “Because I said so” just won’t work.  

Engage the mind. Let’s learn to formulate sound arguments and logically state reasons for or against a particular position with clarity and honor. If all participants in a discussion will do this, it will be much more pleasant and challenging than just getting into an “argument.” We stand to learn more and draw closer to the Lord by better understanding His truth. 

Doy Moyer