WHAT IS A DEBATE Dictionary Definition 1 A

WHAT IS A DEBATE?

Dictionary Definition 1. A formal discussion in which opposing arguments are put forward 2. Discussion or dispute 3. The formal presentation and opposition of a specific motion (動議) followed by a vote

WHAT IS THE VALUE OF A DEBATE?

“I think debating in high school and college is a most valuable training whether for politics, the law, business, or for service on community committees …. A good debater must not only study material in support of his own case, but he must also, of course, thoroughly analyze the expected arguments of his opponent. . The give and take of debating, the testing of ideas, is essential to democracy. I wish we had a good deal more debating in our institutions than we do now. " (August 22, 1960) -- President John F. Kennedy ”

A debate is especially about… a) Argument b) Discussion c) Persuasion

The goal of a debate is… a) Argument b) Discussion c) Persuasion

For example… • France 1981 – The death penalty (死刑) was abolished, despite strong public opinion in favour, because the minister of justice persuaded other politicians, the media, and the people. BUT if it was against public opinion wasn’t it undemocratic? !?

What is democracy?

• Democracy is not simply majority opinion – If majority public opinion is always followed this is not democracy but demagogy (民衆扇 動): Hitler is a classic example of a demagogue (扇動（政治）家), someone who appealed to people’s emotional rather than rational side – True democracy gives voice to ALL people, including the minority (or even single) voice

Practice Time! Motion: Arranged Marriages are Better than Love Marriages

Phase 1: Opening (Proposer & Opposer) • Outline – “I have 3 points why arranged marriages are (not) better than love marraiges. First, …” • Expand (explain points in more detail) – “First, ……Second, ……. . , Third, ……. . ” • Review – “In summary, my three points were…. ”

Phase 2: Rebuttal (Seconder) • Outline – “You presented 3 points why arranged marriages are (not) better than love marriages. • Expand (attack each point in turn) – “First, you said 1, but actually…. – Second, you said 2, which is true but…. . – Third, you said 3, but the fact is that…. . ” • Review – “In summary, your three points were…. ”

Phase 3: Conclusion/Summary • Summary – “Today, I presented 3 points why arranged marriages are (not) better than love marriages. My arguments stressed X” 2分 max! • Dismiss opposition arguments – “Your arguments focused on Y, but ignored Z” • * Final Message (Slogan/Keyword) * – “The most important point to remember is…. ”

Next class Motion: A Woman’s Place is in the Home (女性の居場所は家庭である) (Husbands should work outside the home and wives should take care of their families= 夫はそとで働き、妻を家庭をまもるべきだ)