t.s.baguley_at_... wrote:
...
> In a verbal exchange it is much
> trickier, I think I'd map it onto a argument (e.g., ad hominem attack,
> falsification of basic assumptions etc.). I think this makes a good rule of
> thumb. In the verbal exchange I wouldn't give penalties for attacks on
> multiple targets (voices count as area effects).
...
Your several opponents might each employ a different 'argument', so
your counter-attack against one of those arguments has little effect
on the other arguments. I think the multiple targets penalty is very
suitable for verbal contests.