Technique

Here's a technique for dealing with opposition that I heard from a prominent radio personality:

Step 1: When someone ("Lib" according to the source) says something that you find laughable or frustrating, laugh and ask them if they are serious.
Step 2: Once, they are clearly ready to seriously defend what you were laughing at, begin a substantive discussion in the "power position." You get to ask questions, steer the discussion, and generally be in charge.

Sound simple and effective. Is it ethical?