how can you tell the difference between ENTPs and INTPs in the style that they debate?
Beat
ya at
your own game. I'd say that's the striking difference between ENTP and INTP in debates. I think it's the effect of Ne leading versus Ti leading....and then, Fe coming up more predominately in ENTP than INTP.
Meaning, it makes an ENTP dance hither and tither in an argument, while an INTP charts the pre-determined course. But, Ti allows both to keep a focus on the central theme of the argument. Ever the NT.
I will come into a debate with my rationalizations (inferred demand for logic, etc, etc), and, if I see that the other isn't meeting me there, yet, holding strong....and my curiosity is piqued enough, I will take it on as a personal challenge, to meet them in
their playing field, and annihilate them.
So, if they want to get all metaphorical on me (lack 'logic'), and if I am interested enough to play, I will take on the debate in 'their terms' and volley back, presented in the
same context they offered, while countering.
As a generalization, from what I've encountered, I can mimic well the patterns of my receipient and morph my position to be presented accordingly, while an INTP sticks to their 'style', irregardless of the receipient's mode.
This might explain why you:
enjoy debating with ENTPs but not with INTPs and I can't put my finger on why.
Ne is open to possibilites, and Fe picks up well the nuances of the receipient's context. The good side of the coin.
The bad side of this coin:
This could also be the reason I know, without a doubt, that I sometimes antagonize, irritate, and rub some other's the wrong way (with their perceived distate of my supposed arrogance) when engaging in a debate.
(I know full well who wants to see my ass get owned)....it amuses me to no end.
Just as easily as I can morph to entertain your point of view, I can just as easily manipulate them....which, most times, leads my receipients to respond with thundering silence. Or, dissolve the argument into personal affront turned insults. Which, I'm also game.
Cuz I'm a prick with whom they won't get anywhere (except, starting to get under their skin
). I make their playing field mine more than theirs and the territory crossing doesn't sit well with some others. But, it's within my control...and I usually resort to this when I feel a vibe that they're aiming to move away from a civilized debate/exchange. Then, yes, the gauntlet will be swung.
Ya bring the game, I aim to finish it. Online forums are not as fun in playing this out as in real life in real time, though....
If, on the other hand, you want to engage in a debate to exchange ideas, thoughts, and we meet at that level....then, there's no game, just exciting exchange of knowledge. You will get my utmost respect.
Play to the audience, I guess.
* but, that's just this one ENTP's perception...so, take that how ya will.