The Philonomosian Society was founded on January 8, 1839, by Rev. John A. McGuigan, S.J., and was one among numerous debating organizations on the campus of Georgetown College. Our founding motto, "Lex, Libertas, Salusque Gentis," (translated to "Law, Liberty, and the People's Wellbeing") indicates a strong connection between debate and congeniality. Uniquely, the Philonomosian opened its membership to underclassmen and Georgetown Preparatory students, fostering a culture of inclusion and competition. On Wednesday nights, students crafted unique arguments and improved their rhetoric, responding to the leading issues of their time. The organization went dormant following the 1931-1932 academic year, but was revived in 2023 and has since become Georgetown's largest debating society. The revival envisioned a return to the respectful multi-partisanship that once prepared students to engage constructively with the peculiarities of our country, grounded in the Society's cohort system.
A Home in the McDonough School of Business
The revived Philonomosian Society is an organization under the Georgetown Institute for the Study of Markets and Ethics (GISME). Our nimble debate format trains emerging entrepreneurs. politicians, and future business and civic leaders in rhetoric and public speaking. However, this should not deter any member Georgetown undergraduate and graduate student from joining the Philonomosian. Our open membership and debate policy permits any question to be debated, with ample room for intellectual pursuits outside of business. Our guiding ethic, "Debate is the servant of the truth," transcends any ideology or course of study.
The Cohort System
In the style of great collegiate political unions, the Philonomosian divides its membership along ideological lines between five Cohorts: Progressive, Liberal, Independent, Federalist, and Tory. Members align their arguments with the tenets and values of their Cohort but may speak on either side of the resolution. Petitioners to the Philonomosian will choose a Cohort upon applying for membership and may switch their affiliation during their academic career. No person or persuasion has a monopoly on the truth, as the Philonomosian both challenges and rewards ideological diversity.
Attire
Western business attire is required for all debates. If this provides any impediment to your participation, please contact our officers.
