discourseplease

discourseplease is a term that emerged on social media platforms, particularly Twitter, as a way to request or demand that individuals engage in a more reasoned, polite, or substantive discussion. It functions as a meta-comment, addressing the *manner* of conversation rather than its specific content. When someone says "discourseplease," they are often implying that the current exchange is becoming overly aggressive, nonsensical, or unproductive, and they wish for a return to more constructive dialogue.

The phrase can be used both seriously and humorously. In a serious context, it signals a desire for civility and a focus on evidence-based arguments or respectful debate. In a humorous or ironic context, it might be used to gently mock overly pedantic or self-important conversations, or to highlight the absurdity of a particular online interaction. The effectiveness of "discourseplease" as a tool for improving online conversations is debated, with some finding it a useful prompt for reflection and others seeing it as potentially condescending or a way to shut down legitimate but passionate disagreements. It is an informal linguistic innovation reflecting the ongoing challenges of online communication.