On avoiding needless bickering

[WizWom]

Let's start with:
http://lesswrong.com/lw/od/37_ways_that ... _be_wrong/

Then let's move on to respect in debate.

Devolving to name-calling doesn't help. Only use it in a last resort, and generally, from then on, treat the topic as closed with that person; you've had your say, the rest of us know you consider them incapable of rational thought, you don't need to continue pointing out they are irrational.

This takes just a little bit of self control.

Now, the next little item on my list:
It's not a crisis if someone is wrong. If someone makes an error in a side point, ignore it. If it is apropos to the topic, point it out, but if it's off topic, don't bother - you'll just derail the discussion.
Moreover, other people will call you wrong when you aren't. If it's the topic of conversation, then pull in more direct explanation. If it's off-topic, ignore it.

Be adult enough to admit you are wrong
We're all going to mess up occasionally, we won't think you're stupid for admitting it.

And lastly:
Have fun! If you aren't enjoying it, and you aren't getting paid or making your reputation on it, it's not worth getting heartburn over. If that starts happening, leave for a few days and get your perspective back.