DEBATE 

WHAT ARE THE DEBATE EVENTS?

Congressional Debate

Congressional Debate mirrors the workings of the U.S. Congress, where competitors act as legislators. Participants write, present, and debate bills or resolutions on a wide range of political and social issues. The goal is to persuade their peers to vote for or against these measures through well-reasoned speeches and by responding to opponents. Emphasis is placed on understanding parliamentary procedure, effective communication, and coalition-building. This event hones skills in advocacy, critical thinking, and public speaking, offering a dynamic and realistic debate experience.

Public Forum Debate

Public Forum Debate features teams of two debating on contemporary, real-world issues that are relevant to public policy and societal challenges. The format is designed to be accessible to a general audience, making it a compelling style for those new to debate. Debaters must present well-supported arguments with clear logic, engage in cross-ex questioning, and adapt to opposing viewpoints in a fast-paced environment. This event emphasizes teamwork, research, and the ability to communicate complex ideas in an audience-friendly manner, reflecting the style of debates seen in media or public discourse.

Lincoln Douglas Debate

Lincoln-Douglas Debate is a one-on-one format that delves into philosophical and moral debates, often centered on questions of justice, ethics, and values. Competitors argue for or against a specific resolution, drawing on ethical theories, historical context, and logical reasoning to support their positions. With an emphasis on persuasive rhetoric, deep analysis, and critical reflection, Lincoln-Douglas debates push competitors to explore both abstract and real-world implications of moral dilemmas. This style of debate is intellectually rigorous, focusing on the art of persuasion through ethical argumentation.

Debate Resources