Ya'll, I don't know if this has been done before, but I thought it might be fun to try it out!

Debate Clubs are meant to focus on critical thinking and communication. Often, controversial topics are discussed, which means this club would require those who are mature and respectful enough to hold civil conversations, and can write well. While a winning team would emerge, the goal is not to "beat the other team," it is to gain an understanding of both sides. Today, it seems we go in blindly to arguments, not caring what the other side cares or feels. We need more common ground, or at least a civil "agree to disagree."

Winning teams would not be chosen on the political or moral "right side", but rather on how well structured, polite, and convincing the argument is. Each team, of course, would have a side: against or for. People would be allowed to choose sides, but if it is too unbalanced, changes would be made.

There would also be multiple judges: a group of probably 4 to determine which side had the best argument, and can inquire about statements made by the participant in order to gauge how well they've structured, thought out, and prepared for questions on their comment.

Other things: Each debate topic would possibly last a week with an added day for the judges to confer, each teams should find means of consulting together, each team will be allowed to appoint two speakers to go against the other side's two, judges will suggest/choose topics.

This club would most likely require a minimum of 8 members. If there is interest, I will be creating little application forms. :)

Any interest or suggested additions to the structure? Please ping me!

Hmm.

I'm interested, as long as we don't talk just about politics.

I'm interested

If it was just politics, I'd pull my hair out XD

True...