The Argument Box

Sick and tired of pointless arguments? Want to finally have a fun and fair argument? Look no further!  The Argument Box is a tool for two arguers to resolve their conflicts in a playful and constructive way. Two arguers decide on an argument topic. Together (using a dial) they select the number of words allowed for the argument (between 1 and 1000). They each speak into their own individual speaking funnel and they each have a separate screen that indicates the number of words they have left. When they have no words left a light comes on and they must stop speaking. They are penalised (through word reduction) for shouting and they can emergency exit the argument by mutual agreement at any time. Each arguer is made responsible for the words they speak by having a visible word count which they must not exceed. Arguers are only allowed to see their own word count to try to diminish the element of competition and increase awareness of their own arguing behaviour. The number of words is capped at 1000 to ensure that arguers will be reflective and thoughtful about what they chose to say. In my practice arguments I found that a ten word argument can often be very productive.  The idea of the emergency exit evolved as a result of testing the box. Some arguments tend quickly to volatility and the emergency exit is a way to recognise this and try to stop and recommence arguing in a more constructive manner. I found that sometimes people needed to practice arguing before they chose a 'real' argument. Therefore the final box comes with instructions and a list of practice argument ideas for different categories of arguers – couples, siblings, parent and child, friends etc.