Argument Clinic

Recently I've been trying to spread the good word to a variety of theistic blogs and have hit a wall. It's a firewall of the mind. My comments are met with an equal and opposite response--regardless of my comment. Once I identify as an atheist, a point I agree with is suddenly morphed into something, anything, I don't. The author disagrees with his past self in order to disagree with me. While this opens up a world of reverse psychology, it's a frustrating trend.

I would guess the average Joe, like myself, skipped debate club in high school. Our arguing skills were first gleamed from our parents, and, depending on the family, this could be very bad thing. Let's ask Google what it means to argue.

ar·gue /ˈärgyo͞o/  verb:
Give reasons or cite evidence in support of an idea, action, or theory, typically with the aim of persuading others to share one's view.

This is the first definition of argue from the big G. In terms of linguistic pagerank, that makes it credible. Notice that argue does not mean simply "to disagree." One can be a master debater (heh) and not a contrarian.

YouTube also has something to say on the subject. Below is a Monty Python sketch that illustrated exactly what I'm dealing with. Exhibit A: John Cleese.