Etiquette of Debate

One way to gain a better understanding of one's beliefs is by comparing them with opposing views. One effective method of presenting such comparisons is engaging in debates with those who hold different beliefs. However, debates require etiquette and rules that facilitate better understanding and resolution of issues. This short course introduces these principles.

In religious sciences and logic, debate falls under the category of Jadal (dialectics) within the Five Logical Disciplines (Ṣanā‘āt Khams). These disciplines include Demonstration (Burhān), Dialectics (Jadal), Rhetoric (Khiṭābah), Poetry (Shi‘r), and Sophistry (Mughālaṭah). Mastering these disciplines is essential for effective debating, both to strengthen one's own arguments and to prevent the misuse of reasoning by opponents.

This course, taught by Professor Jawid Akbari, is based on the works of Ayatollah Milani and provides a structured approach to understanding the etiquette and principles of debate.