Lincoln-Douglas Debate

Lincoln-Douglas (LD) debate in speech & drama is a one-on-one competitive event focused on moral, philosophical, and justice-related topics, where debaters argue opposing sides of a resolution, using structured speeches, cross-examinations, and rebuttals to persuade a judge of their value-based arguments. The event is named after the historical debates between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas and requires students to independently analyze societal issues and construct compelling, logical cases based on ethics and principles. 

Key Characteristics

• One-on-One Competition: Unlike team events, LD is a solo competition, appealing to analytical and independent thinkers. 

• Focus on Values: The debate emphasizes ethical reasoning and philosophical frameworks, exploring how society ought to function, rather than focusing on specific policy solutions. 

• Preparation: Debaters research and prepare cases in advance, using evidence to support their arguments. 

• Structured Format: A round includes specific speeches for constructive arguments, rebuttals to counter the opponent's points, and cross-examination periods where debaters ask each other questions. 

Structure of a Round 

1. Affirmative Constructive (6 minutes): The first speaker presents their pre-written case, including defining terms, stating their value, and providing evidence for their arguments. 

2. Cross-Examination (3 minutes): The negative debater asks questions of the affirmative. 

3. Negative Constructive (7 minutes): The negative speaker presents their case and provides a rebuttal to the affirmative's arguments. 

4. Cross-Examination (3 minutes): The affirmative debater asks questions of the negative. 

5. Rebuttals: Each debater delivers speeches that respond to and refute the arguments made by their opponent.

   • Affirmative Rebuttal (4 minutes)

   • Negative Rebuttal & Summary (6 minutes)

   • Affiramtive Summary (3 minutes)

What Makes a Successful LD Debater?

• Analytical Thinking: The ability to deeply analyze philosophical issues and societal questions. 

• Logical Reasoning: A strong command of logical structures to build compelling arguments. 

• Ethical & Philosophical Aptitude: An interest in and understanding of ethics, principles, and how society should be structured. 

• Persuasiveness: The ability to construct and articulate arguments in a way that persuades the judge to value their position more highly. 

Above content generated with the assistance of AI technology.