This could be a great technique for adding structure to internet discussions, but this algorithm says more about which debate team has more time on their hands, than which arguments have been refuted or not.
The Wikidebate project has some wisdom on how to avoid that, and the fact that the algorithm is run on a wiki ensures that repeated, misguided or otherwise useless arguments are removed or improved. Also, coming up with arguments where there are none is pretty difficult, and stupid ones are much easier to delete than to write down.
Also, coming up with arguments where there are none is pretty difficult
That sounds to me like you have never spoken with people who are skilled at debate. It might be difficult for the average person but there are plenty of people who can debate well and argue nearly any point.
This could be a great technique for adding structure to internet discussions, but this algorithm says more about which debate team has more time on their hands, than which arguments have been refuted or not.
Yes, for cases of Gish gallop it would be impractical to refute every single point.
The Wikidebate project has some wisdom on how to avoid that, and the fact that the algorithm is run on a wiki ensures that repeated, misguided or otherwise useless arguments are removed or improved. Also, coming up with arguments where there are none is pretty difficult, and stupid ones are much easier to delete than to write down.
That sounds to me like you have never spoken with people who are skilled at debate. It might be difficult for the average person but there are plenty of people who can debate well and argue nearly any point.