Disputes About General Facts and Theories

Abstract

Debates on answers to factual questions invite considering first what answer reduces the strangeness of the world, and perhaps also to what degree. Check which answer is simpler; of two theories that explain the same items, the simpler is usually preferred. Check also whether the theory under dispute successfully predicts previously unknown surprising facts or rather just explains known facts (the latter is much the easier one). Avoid debates with people who repeatedly change the wording of their assertions in response to refutations by applying ad hoc corrections to them, especially those who pretend that these corrections are mere clarifications. In general, adversaries who admit error frankly are preferable; more so those who admit error with no fuss.