An Interesting Question on Generosity

Mr John Aspinall contributed a fascinating comment to a fairly dormant thread, and I responded to it (see below) .

 

I thought the short exchange was too interesting to be left on its own there. So here it is: 

 

John Aspinall: 'Why do some contributors here whine and complain about their opponent���s lack of ���generosity��� to their position / opinions etc.? I don���t understand this.

What does ���generous��� even mean in this context? Be nice to me? Don���t make me cry?

Someone explain.
I couldn���t care less how ���generous��� or not a person is with me in a discussion or a debate. It���s the ideas which matter, not the ���feelings��� of the persons discussing the ideas.'

***PH explains. It means starting any argument with the assumption that your opponent is honest, has intentions as good as your own and might possibly be right. I would add that (in my opinion) if and when an opponent shows beyond reasonable doubt that these things are not true, it is permissible to have a bit of fun at his or her expense. But not before.. ****