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What is debate?

Debate is like boxing for smart people. In boxing, one contender challenges another: “you think you’re tough, I think I’m tough; let’s see who is tougher.” In debate, the same challenge is made, with a little twist: “you think you’re smart, I think I’m smart; let’s see who is smarter.”

In order to decide, a two-person team from one high school argues against a two-person team from another high school about an agreed upon topic. This year, the topic is “Resolved: the United States Federal Government should substantially increase social services to people living in poverty in the United States.” The affirmative team argues in favor of the topic, while the negative team argues against it.

In a given debate round, each debater gives two speeches — eight and five minutes long – in favor of his/her side and is questioned and refuted by members of the opposing team. Debaters rely on evidence gathered in out-of-round research, logic, and persuasion. A judge carefully evaluates the debate and declares one team the winner. A debate tournament is composed of many debates. Teams are repeatedly squared off against each other to determine the best in the house.

What will we debate about?

The topic for the year is determined in advance for high schools all across the country. This year that topic is about transportation infrastructure, but this does not limit our conversations at all. Students will be debating about the environment, social justice movements, domestic politics, the structures of government, international relations, and global economics. No matter what your interest, debate is the place to develop and master your understanding of the world.