Why do people start patronising you in a debate or argument?

[Anonymous]

Sometimes when I’ve debated someone, I’ve realised that they’ll start using condescending terms and calling me “little” and “honey” and “dear” in a patronising tone. Or saying “you clearly don’t know much.” Why do people like to patronise someone in a disagreement?

[Effably]

It of course could be a tactical rethoric, a lot of people resort to using condescending or authorative arguments. Such as ridiculing or patronising someone or referencing status, occupation etc instead of supplying anything of actual value.

And of course it could also be that you are unresponsive, repetitive and they run out of energy for the same argument.

I have certainly known both types. I myself try to only resort to this when a person is intentionally being difficult instead of engaging in any meaningful exchange.

[Telekinetic-Potato]

It's a distraction tactic to stop a line of reasoning or to try to destroy someone's credibility in a conversation with other people or to make them feel less confident in themselves.

It's actually incredibly sneaky, extremely effective and is a go-to for people who are not confident in the future of the conversation, don't respect the person their talking to or are highly manipulative.

[Asker]

Agreed

[Firegirl258]

It's to make themselves feel superior and try to make you feel lesser so you'll think you're wrong.

[Asker]

Yep!!!

[20yearsolder]

To belittle you. Making them feel superior to you assholes

[Agape93]

If someone isn't listening to reason, denying reality or being unjustly arrogant, I'll patronize them.

[Asker]

I don’t think that’s the way to go about it..

[Agape93]

You're welcome to handle it however you want

[Asker]

Fair enough. I still wouldn’t like to be patronised or patronise anyone though

[Agape93]

Okay