I don't think the goal of the conversations he has is to have people denounce their faith. He's exploring ideas and talking to people.

Even if he did say some persuasive things, beliefs shift slowly. It's going to be very rare for someone after one conversation to denounce their faith.

Thats sounds like they just want to yap for the sake of yapping then. Yes I am aware that people are slow to change and sometimes impossible to convert even with logic and all the evidence in the world
But that doesn't mean one shouldn't try.
Debating has 1 major component and thats to convince the other why their side or idea is better or correct one. The exploring of ideas and sharpening your linguistics is a side benefit.

We disagree on this. For me, the primary purpose of debate is the edification of onlookers.

Most of the debates someone like Alex engages in would be a complete waste of time if the only goal were to change the other person’s mind. Someone like D’Souza isn’t going to change their mind.

If one cannot or isn't willing to change one's mind with logic and proof then whats the point might as well talk to a wall. People like that aren't debating they are preaching.
Alex needs to keep the gravy train going he isnt a closer. For him debating is an income stream he relies on characters like D'Souza to never change because if they did his debating days will be over.

I want to finish that conversation and draw a conclusion not to endlessly debate someone who actively denies reality. Edification is for normies who are still figuring shit out. I am already there wake me up when you catch up.

I watched most of the john cena joe rogan last night on night shift