The art of thinking dialectically means: not disappearing up your own asshole.

It means not only seeing things from your own perspective.  Trying to stay in dialogue with people who don't see things the same way you do.

You have to use language that someone who isn't playing the same game as you are could understand.

People who find themselves arguing with someone (especially online) and thinking (or saying) "This idiot has no idea what he's talking about," and thus conclude that the argument is pointless, are missing the point.  Let's assume it's true.  You don't realize how precious that is - to meet someone who has no idea what you're talking about.  Now you're in contact with a truly outside perspective.  A rare opportunity.  Now dialectics can begin.  Unless you can say what you mean to someone who isn't in your culture and doesn't use your language, you yourself don't understand it at all.

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