by Laura Leigh Fields

Created on: March 03, 2008   Last Updated: October 12, 2011

When it comes to debate topics, Helium already has the right system figured out. The rater is asked the question and they will vote to the side that they most agree with. Then, they are only given articles to rate that are written to the view they picked. In my opinion, this is the best method for debates.

There are many that will argue that it is best to have an open mind or no opinion on a topic so that they can make the best decision. There are others that will argue that people who see things differently are better able to critique someone's work. These opinions aren't necessarily wrong, but mine are different.

If someone disagreed with the view, I think they might also not like the opinions offered. This could result in a good article being rated down. Opinions vary, so it is good to keep them separated and allow the rater a choice.

Some people are easily offended. If a varying opinion bothers someone, this might cause harsh feelings. I have seen many relationships end over the years because of too many disagreements. I would hate to see that at Helium. Of course, there would be more flags that were uncalled for, also.

No matter how hard we try, we cannot earn everyone's approval. Even the best writers have articles, poems, or stories that people don't like. There will always be a difference of opinion. In these cases, you don't get to pick what you want to read; you just have to pick the best one.

I remember when Helium first released the debate option. I was intimidated to say the very least. At times in the past, discussions have gotten heated and ugly on the message boards. I was sure the debate thing would be just as bad. I feared I would get hate mail from people who didn't like my thoughts. I didn't want to cause a fight. For a long time, I wouldn't write to a debate if my life depended on it.

Once I did finally take a chance in the debates section, I was glad I did. I have received very little negative feedback and most of the time my opinions do pretty well. If the system were set up any other way, I am not sure if I would even bother in this section.

It is refreshing to know that the debate system exists the way it does. If things were different, Helium might not be as great of a place. In my eyes, a debate at Helium is just a light-hearted argument. It is nice to see what others think but I don't want to be forced to pick an article about a view I don't like or know anything about.

Helium debates are a fun way to pass the time. They are a great way to share thoughts without causing drama. The debates have become an important part of Helium and Helium is a very important part of me.

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