simonalkenmayer:
The next time someone “sea lions” you…
For reference, I’ve recently learned that “sea lioning” is a description for a person arguing in such a way as to try and make the recipient irrationally angry (even if justifiable anger) so that they can then point to the irrationality as if it disqualifies the argument.
For example, a racist making facetious and intentionally demeaning remarks so that they can trigger the hearer to punch them in the face, so that they can claim moral superiority and hide behind the protections of free speech.
The next time someone does this to you, even a family member, say the following:
“You must be terribly used to arguing with stupid people.”
And then drop the conversation and walk away.
Works every time.
Why? Because it is not a direct assault. They can’t say “im not stupid!” Because you’re not calling them anything. You’re implying that their company is kept by idiots, which is an indirect sort of insult. It’s also one they’d readily accept, since this behavior is commonly enacted by blatant narcissists. Of course they’re surrounded by fools when so intelligent! But you’re also implying that their techniques for making a case are absolutely ridiculous and without merit, and because you walk away, you force introspectiom. This is, as I’ve said, the only way to stop bullying.
So I recommend you try this strategy. And then cease all conversation with them. Period.
Spelling errors amended, if you’d like to reblog the corrected version instead.