When you debate - especially the more contentious modern day subjects - it is hard for anyone, once emotional, to hold their own. Debate, if you can be met, can be exhilirating, informing and convincing if you are capable of feeling stupid. Are you strong enough to see the loopholes in your own position? Are you capable of allowing the petty nature of your emotional insecurities to make you feel small and stupid...and to let it go? Passion about what you feel or your point of view is great, but when your emotions rule the communication, you may more easily lose the interest and connection of the other person. When you need to WIN - you'll lose more of yourself than you'd like, most importantly, self-esteem. Yes, persuasion/debate/argument can be highly emotional and it can also be a strong educational tool when you stay in the game and your emotions become something useful instead of just something that drain you of energy and power. Emotions can become the foundation of impactful lessons. Stay in the communication, feel your ignorance and see how much more you can win by not needing to win at all.