What is debate?

Debate is a formal contest of argumentation between two teams or individuals. More

broadly, and more importantly, debate is an essential tool for developing and
maintaining democracy and open societies. More than a mere verbal or performance
skill, debate embodies the ideals of reasoned argument, tolerance for divergent points
of view and rigorous self-examination.

Why do we debate?
Debate is, above all, a way for those who hold opposing views to discuss
controversial issues without descending to insult, emotional appeals or personal bias. A
key trademark of debate is that it rarely ends in agreement, but rather allows for a
robust analysis of the question at hand. Perhaps this is what French philosopher Joseph
Joubert meant when he said: It is better to debate a question without settling it, than to
settle a question without debating it.
Types of debating
What types of debating are there ?

There are slightly different ways to do debating. Generally, you need a Chairperson,
Proposer, Opposer, Proposer and Opposers' Seconders and a time-keeper.
Oxford Debates
This is the classic style of debate. It is easily transformed into an activity within
which the entire class can participate.

Chairperson: Controls the debate and starting with the Proposer, calls alternate
sides to speak. The Chairperson has a script but as to maintain the formality of
the contest.

Proposer: Speaks for the motion, defines it and shows that there is a need for
change.

Opposer: Speaks against the motion, often defends the current system or
asserts only minor changes are needed.
DEBATE
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Proposer's Seconder: Supports the Proposer's ideas and often presents a plan
and its benefits.

Opposer's Seconder: Attacks the plans of the Proposer and Seconder and
often suggests minor changes to the present system.

Rebuttals: No new evidence can be introduced but arguments can be extended.
Parliamentary Debates
This is a debate pretending that we are in parliament.

Those for the motion (the "Bill") are called the Prime Minister and the
Government Minister and those against the "Bill" are the Leader of the
Opposition and the Opposition Member. The Speaker of the House plays the role
of Chairperson. All debates start by addressing Mr./Madame Speaker.

Points of Order are raised by a debater to the Speaker who decides whether the
opponent has broken a rule.

Points of Personal Privilege are raised by a debated about personal abuse,
misrepresentation or insult.

Questions: A debater can ask the Speaker if the member is willing to take a
question on an issue.

Heckles or brief, pertinent, witty interruptions are permitted.
Cross-Examination Debates
The First Affirmative speaker outlines the motion (the resolution) being debated
and presents evidence and a plan for change.

The Second Negative speaker questions the First Affirmative to expose flaws.

The First Negative then speaks in a constructive manner saying that there is no
need for change and the opposition's ideas are flawed.

The First Negative is cross-examined by the First Affirmative to force an
admission that the plan is worthwhile.

The Second Affirmative gives a constructive speech which attacks the negative
claim's philosophy.

The First Negative then cross-examines the Second Affirmative .

The Second Negative gives a constructive speech which attacks the plan and
completes the negative case.

The Second Negative is cross-examined by the Second Affirmative .

Rebuttal break. (sides confer).

Rebuttal by First Negative followed by a rebuttal by First Affirmative .