Debate is a two way process - just as some people cannot

abide change for any reason, those who will never alter

their opinions one iota from a declared standpoint run the

same risk - being painted as intransigent and totally

uncompromising.

Frequently such people exhibit the same temperament as

those they criticize and censure – and will shout just as

loudly to proclaim their perspective better than their

adversaries, even using the most subjective language

(whilst claiming to be objective) and rebutting all other

arguments as irrational and totally absurd on the assumed

basis that any divergence from their intrinsic partiality

must be scorned and ridiculed lest any credibility be paid

to oppositely held views.

Such writers will use disdainful, contemptuous and

sarcastic language in an attempt to inflict any damage

possible to another writer's views, and then issue

complaints in response to any retaliation that their

opponents are now resorting to personalised invective

that is contemptuous and cantankerous.

The use of condescending language is usually evident in

belief that this will restore the moral high ground.

Debate cannot take place, as there is no scope for

manoeuvre: a situation that well suits the headstrong

protagonist. This person can then stand proud at the top

of his castle in their supposed clear air of reason and

logicality - a position they will preach that all must attain

but none will be permitted to enter until total subjection

to the supposed supreme opinions are acknowledged.

The more outlandish the statements, most usually using

inflammatory language, the greater the chance of some

reader responding in like fashion, which is the ultimate

aim of the argumentative type.

A combatative approach ensures the bait will be taken

and further opportunities to argue are promoted, which is,

after all, the is the overriding aim of such writers.

Even some newspaper employ columnists whose sole aim

is to write articles that polarise their readership and

therefore promote a biting response.

This is termed selling newspapers for advertising revenue

the most essential factor in the life of any newspaper.

Pravda may have had the literal translation of The Truth (a

gigantic misnomer in its case), but some less worthy

newspapers have great success employing tactical

embellishments, approved by lawyers, to ensure sales.