Why is it hard to find a decent opponent for a debate.?

A lot depends on the subject that you debating.

Also, some people do not understand what it means to debate, dissolving into diatribes and invectives

That's a terrible question. Why you ask? It's a terrible question because most people are ******* retarded, and don't know the first thing about debating. Most people use the word 'debate' as a synonym for 'argument', because they don't have the intelligence to make real points in their defence, or - if online - do anything but point out that you made grammatical/spelling errors in your message.

That's why I only debate with friends or people who I've talked to frequently, and only if an issue where we have opposing views comes up.

Excellent question. I run into the same problems. Most people can not look at both sides of a subject. Try your local colleges. They should have a debate team or club....maybe there will not be a hot head in the group. GOOD LUCK

If you are going to dictate to your opponent that he/she should first let go of their beliefs in order to debate you then you might as well stand in front of a mirror and talk to yourself.

Why would you want to debate with someone who did not feel passionately about an issue?

Are you providing evidence for your side of the debate? Just curious.

quit looking at liberal websites and blogs, and start looking at conservatives. we dont tree hug..we work and create funds liberals like the ones youve run into tax and spend.

that's because i'm smart and you're stupid