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The United Kingdom is deeply embroiled in the Brexit debate. It's the classic question: should we stay or should we go? Polls suggest that the electorate is almost evenly split. What can this teach us about persuasion?
Which alternative is best? As always, it depends on what you want to accomplish. Let's look at the choices.
Alternatives A & B – in both cases, you strongly suggest to Mr. Sharp that he's wrong, stubborn, and not very smart. If your goal is to feel superior to Mr. Sharp, this is a good strategy. On the other hand, if wish to persuade Mr. Sharp to your way of thinking, you've just shot yourself in the foot.
Alternative C – an appeal to authority can work in some situations. But not here. Many Brexit supporters think the authorities – better known as the elites – can't be trusted. "They don't care about us. They've sold us out. If they say we should stay, all the more reason to leave." In this case, quoting the elites is self-defeating. (It's probably a poor tactic in arguing with a Donald Trump supporter as well).
Alternative D – this is a rhetorical technique known as concession-and-shift. You begin by agreeing with the other person. In this case, you concede that Mr. Sharp is right. This makes you seem open-minded and reasonable (even if you're not). Then you shift to new ground and bring in a different perspective. Since you're open-minded, Mr. Sharp is more likely to be open-minded in return. He's more likely to listen to your thoughts and understand your position. That's the first step in persuading him to your point of view.
Concession-and-shift can work in many different situations. It's a useful tool to master and remember. And it helps us achieve the ultimate goal of rhetoric – to argue without anger.