We need a new kind of interface for debating (even arguing!) online.
Anyone who has argued online knows that it is somehow more productive on some venues and less on others. For example, everyone agrees Facebook is kind of shitty for reasoned debate. I would say it's not because people become stupid when on the site, but because the interface itself supports only the most casual kinds of interaction.
I have some ideas about this. Maybe something like what I am going to describe already exists.