Ask HN: Argument Exploration Tool
I think the HN community could rally together (regardless of left/right/whatever) to create an online tool that approaches discussions in a logical, systematic fashion.
It could possibly take the form of a mind-map. Lets say one type of node represents an assertions made in a sentence or accusation. The Assertion Node interface would provide sub nodes in which a user could input a primary source that confirms or discredits the assertion. Perhaps if an accusation is levelled against an individual, the Node is marked with a warning that it is currently unsubstantiated until a primary source is provided.
Although I am not sure the best way in which this could be moderated to reduce bias, there must be a clever way. Perhaps users in other argument maps are presented a Node and its children out of context, simply to confirm whether it is logically correct?
Other nodes could include marking logical fallacies, unsourced material etc.
I imagine that many smart minds have come up with logical and systematic approaches to arguments.
Perhaps this is something the HN community could rally together behind, despite many of our differences that could be a truly useful tool for understanding one another?