Debate by Comparing Alternatives

You are losing debates because you treat them like they happen in a vacuum. You aren't arguing

if something is good or bad, you’re arguing against a specific alternative. Look at banning

homework. The debate isn't just "is homework annoying." It’s "is doing homework

better than the opportunity cost," like sleep or hobbies. Or legalizing drugs. You don't have to

claim heroin is good for you. You just have to prove that a legal, regulated supply

is safer than buying from a sketchy cartel on the street. Stop proving your side is perfect

and start proving it’s just better than the mess on the other side.