Annoying Trolls

As in, "how to," rather than "these people are" or "identifying characteristics of." (That would be a post series in itself.)

Short form: don't let them control the conversation.

Longer suggestions:

Stick to the subject. REFUSE to be drawn off. If the original subject is disposal of nuke waste, utterly refuse to chase off after alternative energy, middle east politics, Jimmy Carter's other actions, "you conservatives are suppose to hate France, now you want to copy them?", current politics, prior record of environmentalists, environmentalists in general or specific, etc.  Point out when they try to change the subject and (if fitting) restate or ask the question again.

Point out logical errors.  Appeal to emotion, personal attacks, appeal to authority, unsupported claim, misquotes, mischaracterizations-- if they're not making a rational, factually supported argument, point it out.  (Note: this means you have to make a rational, factually supported argument, of course.)

• sub-group: tone.  They will accuse you of being rude, uncharitable, mean, uncouth, bitter, a hater.  This happens pretty much no matter what; generally ignore it, although if it's an exceptionally outrageous claim you may wish to respond either politely or dryly.  Do not get angry/hot, although cold outrage is sometimes an option.

Do not let them define what is acceptable.  Pick a ground and stick to it-- and know why you think what you think before you start.  I favor well supported science for most subjects that aren't explicitly theological/philosophical, but that may have to do with the arguments I find myself in.

Point out consequences of what they admit.  Did they just say that 18 year olds should not be allowed to drive?  Point out that it's hard to live on your own if your entire class is not allowed to drive.  Did they just claim to be the ones who get to decide who is really human?  Point out that this is a step backwards, socially. (Do your research-- there are some very nice articles out there about tribal society, and I'm sure you can find a nice site explaining that most primitive peoples' word for their tribe translates as, basically, "the people.")

Use references.  HTML: love it, use it.  Remember, wikipedia is a search aid, not a source.

Do not let them push your buttons.  Eventually, they will realize you're not letting them guide the direction of conversation, and they will generally try to get you to restate something you already said several times.  Respond that you already answered that question, or that the answer hasn't changed, or-- depending on tone-- "scroll up."