[MD] The End of Faith - Spirituality

[Arlo Bensinger]

[Ian]
If I could attempt a constructive comment about use of the word "loser".

[Arlo]
It doesn't bother me, as I think its obvious to everyone why Platt 
has to rely on these tactics.

[Ian]
This is the same either / or problem at work. Platt (like many 
people) sees arguing as a matter of winning or losing.

[Arlo]
Argument is typically framed via a "war metaphor" in American 
dialogue. "He was winning the argument until I brought out the big 
guns". "I totally demolished his position." Etc.

I know of research that shows that in Spanish-language cultures, for 
example, "argument" is framed via a "dance metaphor". While "dancing 
around an issue" in English implies "evasion", the metaphor in these 
cultures reveals progress and mutual achievement.

[Ian]
Anyone enlightened, sees argument as an opportunity to add 
value, make progress, be creative - win-win if possible.

[Arlo]
This reminds me too of James Carse's "Finite and Infinite Games". A 
good book, to anyone interested.