I think it's Richard Dawkins who uses the word discussion to contrast with the word debate (used in the combative sense).
In a discussion, several parties with different perspectives work together to make progress toward truth, whatever that means in the given context. If one or more parties has their opinion changed, that's seen as productive.
In a debate, several parties plenty a points-based game (perhaps even literally), and if someone is seen to be changing their mind, they lose.
In a discussion, several parties with different perspectives work together to make progress toward truth, whatever that means in the given context. If one or more parties has their opinion changed, that's seen as productive.
In a debate, several parties plenty a points-based game (perhaps even literally), and if someone is seen to be changing their mind, they lose.