There’s a tired old phrase that we hear today on media debates, both radio and television “Just answer the question yes or no!”
OK, Let’s just get this stupid thing settled once and for all.
Basic debating rules 101:
On one hand I get frustrated when people avoid answering direct questions. And yes, people do that all the time. They talk in circles, hoping it will look like they answered the question when they really didn’t.
QUESTION: “Since many Muslim clerics claim that Americans must convert to Islam or die, can you tell me why they aren’t a real danger?”
ANSWER: “You wanna talk about terrorists? How about George Bush?”
Such a fudging, cowardly, political response does need to be challenged.
On the other hand. there is only one fair way to ask and answer yes and no questions, especially when the question is designed as an obvious trap.
When I find myself on the receiving end of such inquiry, I often respond, “I will answer yes or no only if I can explain my answer.”
In other words, “I will answer your question but in my own words, not words you are attempting to put in my mouth. If after I say yes or no, you’re going to cut me off with a smug victorious grin as if you just accomplished a knockout at a prize fight, then all you’re doing is making a fool out of yourself.”
Allow me to offer an example that makes the obvious, obvious:
“Did you ever drive over the speed limit?”
“Well …I…”
“Yes or no! Did you ever drive over the speed limit?’
“Yes but…”
“Ha! No more questions, Your Honor.”
“Wait! The answer is,Yes, because I drive an ambulance.”
