Law Debate Topics — page 10

2,217 debate topics, all ages. Debatable motions with arguments for and against. Open the arguments below, pick one at random, or present them full-screen.

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451.
Demerit point systems should be used to reduce road fatalities
For
i say it a good idea because the rate of fatilities of south africa will decrease
Against
BoP is on. He hasn't fulfilled his part.
I pass this round.
452.
The federal government should legalize industrial hemp
For
My opponent made the statement that said this resolution was failed because the Federal Government does not have the power to do this, but when we look at what the Federal Government really is we see that yes they do have this power. The Federal Government is broken up into…
Guess what we could give millions of people the nutrition that they need, cut down on deforestation, bring back the agricultural industry, and you won't even get high in the process. It's time that America faced the facts Hemp is a vital and needed resource that America needs…
Against
The resolution is that the US Federal Government should legalize industrial hemp. I oppose this resolution. My opponent contends that the Federal Government should do something that the Federal Government has no power to do. Section 8 of Article One of the Constitution of the…
My opponent now wishes to rely on Concurrent Powers to show that the Federal Government of the USA has the power to legalise industrial hemp. In doing so, he is saying that one of those concurrent powers is the power to make and enforce laws. He claims that this means that the…
453.
Certain federal offenders should receive alternative sentencing
For
This has so far been a great experience, and I thank you. Now, I would like to clarify some things: 1. Most recent recidivism rate available. The 2004 recidivism statistic is the most recent number available on federal recidivism. 2. Safety valve offenders must have hit the…
I am sure you will do fine. Thank you for assuming the best of me, I did not realize that when i put the links into the box, they would be shortened. Here are all the links TYPED OUT, to avoid any errors. They are listed in the order I presented them in the first round. www.…
Against
It appears my opponent has conceded. As my opponent was unwilling or unable to refute the stat of 25% recidivism for federal inmates, it is evident the status quo works. 25% is better than ANY study Pro stated a change in the system would yield. You must vote Con. The Dallas…
Since Pro did not respond, I will continue. Pro stated that recidivism rates of the status quo were 7% (42% vs. 49%) higher than under his plan [1]. However, this small percentage could easily be influenced by the data used in this study from over ten years ago. This study only…
454.
People have rights rather than mere privileges
For
or atleast i woudn't admit that i allready have , but none the less lets begin. This debate is to discuss wether or not our given "rights" such as the right to free speech or the right to live safetly are really. .. , rights. By accepting this debate my opponent affirms the…
Against
My opponent has the right to forfeit this debate.
I hope we will be able to debate this. Until my opponent responds, I will not waste my time on a lengthy argument. Here is a right granted by the Constitution of the United States of America: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting…
455.
Cursing in public should be made illegal
For
If every one went with the bible the world would be a better place and the world has become a peace of garbage from cops not get a punishment when they kill some one and they didn't do anything to what's going on in Iraq. The world needs to change it ways and the first step…
cursing is against the bible and you should not do stuff that is against the BIBLE
Against
My opponent failed to show up the last round. My opponent also failed to substantiate the resolution they chose. I will simply say: "VOTE CON." Thank you. Enjoy good music while voting.http://www.youtube.com...
Fine. My opponent is saying "if everyone went with the Bible the world would be a better place," correct? I am too ignorant and I need enlightenment. Could my opponent please tell me how if everyone went with the Bible the world would be a better place? What in the Bible would…
456.
Teens should not have curfew laws
For
1. Sure studies show that curfew does not prevent crime, much less reduce it and make the community safer, yet if curfew was to be ridden of, there would be in increase in crime due to my previous evidence. There would be more teens, more people, and in essence, more victims.…
1. I will object to this, where is your proof? Sure Chicago has a curfew law for under 17 and crime rates are still high but if you let go of curfew, more kids will be out on the streets, more people to do mischievous activities, more people to harm.Most mischievous activities…
Against
1. Sure studies show that curfew does not prevent crime, much less reduce it and make the community safer, yet if curfew was to be ridden of, there would be in increase in crime due to my previous evidence. There would be more teens, more people, and in essence, more victims.…
I am for curfew laws. And I will state several reasons as a rebuttal to your reason: "Curfews do not reduce or prevent crime, or make the community safer." I will object to this, where is your proof? Sure Chicago has a curfew law for under 17 and crime rates are still high but…
457.
The wiretapping of journalists is justified
For
Stephen has explained to me that he is overwealmed with studies, a sentiment I can well understand. Thanks anyway for the chance to get my arguments out there!
Ladies and gentlemen, it is an honor to be debating Stephen on such an important issue. My father is a well-respected journalist and I have long had a fascination with how journalism and public policy interrelate. In this debate, my contention will be that there are situations…
Against
I accept the motion, with the precursor that we stick to ESU Mace rules (which are practically the same, except that we do not have preset definitions, and judges use their own discretion if someone squirrels, or changes definitions).
duh, winning.
458.
Accommodations for workers with depression and anxiety should be required
For
I feel bad that you missed the last round, but you were a worthy opponent nonetheless! SUMMARY OF MY OPPONENT'S POINTS AND MY REBUTTALS: 1. Physical ailments aren't comparable to mental ailments. Arthritis is specifically not comparable to depression or anxiety. -All 3…
Con says that arthritis isn't comparable. I will demonstrate how it is: Arthritis is characterized by painful joints, yet not necessarily inabilities. The painful aspect of arthritis causes psychological stress. It is the psychological stress, rather than the physical aspect of…
Against
Your first point is based in solid premises:P1-P3 are all valid. However, you've made a major logical flaw here because the conclusion doesn't follow from the premises: Arthritis is not comparable to depression/anxiety.Rebuttal: Physical ailments are radically different than…
Looking forward to a great debate. Cheers!
459.
Sampling music without permission is not theft
For
My opponent debates well and clearly we agree upon more things than we disagree about. We both seem to agree that: 1. Sampling is NOT theft if no attempt is made to exploit the results for profit. [or at least that "if a piece of work is used in the privacy of your home without…
I was under the impression that I had shown my position on wishing to debate morality rather than legality quite clearly as the opening sentence of my first round states this explicitly: ' If you wish to debate the legality of sampling please do not accept this debate. ' I…
Against
My opponent and I do not agree on the points he has stated. Specifically, point number 2 is where we are in disagreement: "Sampling IS theft if the artist who samples gains significant financial reward without the creator of the sampled work being rewarded accordingly" We…
I have not misunderstood my opponent. My opponent has a bit of a conundrum. He says he would like to ignore the legality of the issue of sampling, debate the morality, and doesn't realize that what makes sampling moral or immoral is the legal status of the sampling itself. It…
460.
The defence should receive funding matching prosecution spending
For
His presumptions about the legal system in New Zealand are almost all correct - where they are not, I have indicated this. People's InterestsMy opponent asserts that the interests of the people are those of the prosecution. While it is true that the general public support…
Greetings and thanks to whoever accepts this!RULESThis debate shall be three rounds. Please do not accept if you cannot post your argument in each round.No new lines of argumentation may be introduced in the third round.Neither debater may post videos.If you want…
Against
I am not too familiar with the legal system in New Zealand, but I assume that over there, as well as here in the United States, the cost of both public defense and prosecution is carried by the taxpayer. In a criminal case, the interest of the people are represented by the…
My opponent opens the last round of the debate by stating that:"this debate comes down to three key points of clash:1) Whether the grand jury model adopted by 22 of the US states is an effective counter model.2) Whether non-legal aid lawyers can in fact be shown to be better.3)…
461.
Juveniles should be tried as adults for serious crimes
For
I request my opponent not to make acquisitions on my beliefs I do have a belief that when a teen commits a crime he/she might be doing it willingly or under peer pressure so it also leads to case of bullying and i also want to say that the child/teen should be given a…
I Just want to clear with my opponent that 5 year old was an example and i meant to say was that when a child reaches 13 he/she party/drink alcohol,etc so they think they are the masters of their minds and that is why they do not listen to their parents and come under peer…
Against
As you might have noticed, my opponent started with "TREAT 5 YEAR OLD CHILDREN AS ADULTS!", then he mellowed down to "NO, DON'T PUNISH 5 YEAR OLD CHILDREN, DO IT TO 13 YEAR OLD TEENAGERS INSTEAD!" and consequently "I HAVE A BETTER IDEA! DON'T TREAT TEENAGERS AS ADULTS, BUT DO…
My opponent claims that his "strong belief" should be enough of a motivation to upheave legislations based upon the judgement of countless individuals.His rationale?Because 13 year old children "think" they are adults, their status should automatically be raised to adulthood,…
462.
The US Constitution applies to non-citizens abroad
For
Here is the resolution: "The US Constitution applies to non citizens or outside of American borders."The resolution is ambiguous as to the extent to which the constitution applies to non citizens and outside of American borders. The resolution only asserts that the constutiton…
"The debate Title does not you the words 'does' therefore you just wasted a round. "Nope, I did not. While it is true that I made a mistake when I asserted that the debate title says "does", my conclusion that this is a legal debate, not a policy debate, is still true…
Against
Now it seems as if you have wasted your round two argument. The Constitution is more policy than law. "These statements strongly indicate that the constitution does apply non-citizens" tell a starving North Korean that if he only took his case to the Supreme Court of the United…
The debate Title does not you the words "does" therefore you just wasted a round. To elaborate many Americans seem to believe that the prisoners of Guantanamo Bay should be treated constitutionally or when an American dies overseas via US drone strike there are always claims of…
463.
Prisons should reduce overcrowding
For
killing off the prisoners is not a good idea as it could influence the changes in government and give the country a tyrant-like image.
prisons are too crowded as more and more people try and use violence against guards and othe inmates
Against
Exactly but also we can"t let them out either that would be like starting a million small tornadoes in America and it wouldn"t be pretty
Ok what do you want the people to do kill them no they have families who still care the government could be sued and they have a right to life liberty and the pursuit of happiness in prison still that and I have an uncle in prison awaiting trial for a murder he didn't commit if…
464.
Honorable duels should be legal again
For
So, first I want to start my round with a question. Why does the person have to be honorable for the act to be honorable? Your talking about the intentions of the people in the duel. That is not the point at all. Their intentions don't matter at all. As long as they follow the…
While I don't consider Pirates of the Caribbean 2 much of a font of useful information, your point is well taken. Dictionary. com defines: Honor: honesty, fairness, or integrity in one's beliefs and actions. Duel: a prearranged combat between two persons, fought with deadly…
Against
"Why does the person have to be honorable for the act to be honorable? Your talking about the intentions of the people in the duel. That is not the point at all. Their intentions don't matter at all. As long as they follow the agreed upon rules what isn't honorable about that?…
"Sorry, I didn't know that you were unaware of the definitions were, that is what I get for assuming. " "Honor: honesty, fairness, or integrity in one's beliefs and actions." This definition works perfectly: The only person who can know what their beliefs are are themselves,…
465.
Corporations should have limited free speech rights
For
Corporate influence distracts politicians from the needs of their constituents.
Corporates that attempt to address social issues damage political discourse.
Against
Limiting the rights of corporate persons would harm a wide range of organisations and limit the freedom of natural persons.
Uses of free speech motivated by personal gain should still be protected.
466.
Marijuana should be legalized
For
The drug problem that America currently is experiencing is with addictive drugs like heroin and prescription drugs, not marijuana. Marijuana has not caused individuals to act violent. It has only created a financial issue with tax payers. Individuals who get arrested for…
Marajuana should be legalized for medicinal purposes.
Against
Who is to say that marijuana smokers cannot be violent? Marijuana impairs judgement on all levels. While we see the "lovable stoner", who is to say that said person would not pick up a bat and beat someone to death due to their impaired mental state? Marijuana is known to kill…
Marijuana should not be legalized because there is already a rampant drug problem in the US. Legalizing marijuana would make America's drug problem spiral out of control.
467.
The justice system should be radically restructured
For
Before I bring my debate to an end, I shall like to just highlight how amusing my opponent's argument is.I would just like to take you via his trail of thought to reach the conclusion he has reached: A justice system is only valid if it isn't based on one person's views. The…
Before I begin the debate I just want to say that I stated in round 1 that my system uses prison, my system is not opposing prison altogether, imprisonment is an integrated part of my system and I dedicated several conditions to determine when to use prison instead of the 'eye…
Against
Before I begin this last round, I would like to concede my mannerisms: You're stupid as hell. Carrying on: "A justice system is only valid if it isn't based on one person's views." I never even implied this. The point about the views of this one person lacking supporters is…
"it's human nature to feel fear in regards to pain." Pain is never feared to the degree my opponent attributes until it is felt. I do not fear arthritis because I have not felt the pain it can cause, yet many describe it as mind-crushingly painful. Studies say eating certain…
468.
Anti-bullying laws go too far
For
For the record, Con is against Anti-Bullying lawsPro is Pro Anti-Bullying Laws"A six year old child calls another child ugly. Should this child be charged with bullying? I would say absolutely NOT"Thats not considered bullying...."A person is bullied when he or she is exposed,…
" These people have suffered a great lost and no matter what their children are gone forever!"Wait a minute, you think that anti-bullying laws are an act of revenge by parents??????? What kind of bullsh*t logic is that, thats like saying that there shouldnt be laws against…
Against
A six year old child calls another child ugly. Should this child be charged with bullying? I would say absolutely NOT! So where do we draw the line with the anti-bullying law? Who decide what exactly can be considered bullying? I believe that our society has forgotten how to…
First of all, let me correct you on the idea that I blamed the victims of bullying! I said that it was the parent's responsibility to have a more active role in their children's lives to help protect them! And the idea of having parents whose children committed suicide from…
469.
Flag burning should be banned
For
Okay, so I'm going to skip around a little bit on my arguments. For starters, on your Constitutional argument, I'll agree that the Constitution is just as much as a symbol as the flag as you had mentioned in your last speech. I have two things on this 1. Supreme Court cases can…
Like you said, the flag is a symbol of America. It is also a symbol of our freedom, it is a tribute to those who have fought on behalf of our great nation, it is a symbol to those who have died to give you the right to protest in the first place. If you burn the flag, you not…
Against
First of all, would you please provide a source for your "fact" that flag burning was originally done by enemy nations and is now done by terrorists? It is my belief that flag burning is usually done by protestors and was originally done, or at least popularized, by protestors…
Thank you for debating me. 1.First of all, it hurts the morale of the American people. Although no one is physically hurt from this, psychologically, it may have tolls on the conscience of people. If seeing someone burn a flag is psychologically harmful to someone, they must…
470.
Legalizing cannabis would benefit the population
For
I thank you very much for taking on this debate and hope for it to be an interesting one. I will start with my arguments that marijuana benefits the population financially, then move to it's laws that may be seen as drastic and finally it's health benefits. Marijuana is one of…
Legalization of weed is an ever growing topic in society, especially with younger people. I will debate why weed (specifically smoking marijuana) is more beneficial to the populace financially and improving the populations happiness, than keeping it illegal. My opponent will…
Against
I should like to oppose the motion and the legalisation of marijuana, taking the stance that it is bad for society and our population. For the purposes of this debate I shall refer to the populations of both the United Kingdom and the United States. I, too, am looking forward…
But they CAN be compared when you use the economic argument! And I think I might have said before that I believe tobacco should be outlawed too, why shouldn't it? By 'smoking' I meant tobacco but the point was that if we were to legalise cannabis, I would be subjected to it…
471.
The drinking age should be lowered
For
I will briefly outline his argument below: Because: Alcohol consumption can be harmful to others; Domestic violence and incest are more likely to occur in homes with alcoholics; and People under the age of 20 cannot make rational, responsible life choices The age restriction on…
I would like to congratulate my opponent on a well thought-out response. It gives me no joy (that is a bold-faced lie) to have to tear it down piece by piece. Con does not address my argument on government regulation, instead focusing on issues not related to the topic.…
Against
He starts off with: "Con does not address my argument on government regulation, instead focusing on issues not related to the topic." Forgive me if you didn't understand my argument on government regulation but I felt like I addressed it just fine when I stated that the…
My opponent starts off with: "I will begin my own argument by asking my opponent to provide reliable sources for the statistics he had cited." Well, here they are http://family.samhsa.gov... http://www.renewamerica.us... http://why21.org... These are just some of many sources I…
472.
Private citizens should be allowed to own atomic bombs
For
I respect your regard for the Constitution of the United States. However, the Constitution does not contain every right that a person has. In fact I do not care for the word "right", which is why I never used it in my argument. (Only in the title for the sake of succinctness.)…
Slavery is immoral. It is immoral because all people are created with equal authority over each-other; None. Legitimate authority can only be derived by consent. If a government loses the consent of the governed, those that withdraw their consent retain the same freedoms that…
Against
The 2nd Amendment of the Constitution of the United States recognizes the right of civilians to bear the arms of a standard infantryman. 'Arms' refers to "light infantry weapons which can be carried and used, together with ammunition, by a single militiaman, functionally…
"Going back to the example of a man washed up on an island [...]"Defending a supposed right of a theoretical man in a very unlikely scenario that is not only hypothetical, but never occurred in reality, does not help your case. "As I already pointed out, nuclear energy can be…
473.
Public humiliation should be used as punishment
For
Your first debate, let the mayhem begin! Just kidding, I am no better at this than you are most likely. Don't let my win ratio fool you. A couple of weeks ago I was 0-27 now as of this posting I am 24-3-1 I am a controversial personality and people mess with my voting record,…
I would like to debate bringing back public humiliation as a form of punishment for misdemeanor repeat offenders. Putting people on probation and sending them to councilors is a complete waste of time in my opinion. These forms of so called punishment almost always cause the…
Against
My opponent states that my opening argument infers that all public humiliation is bodily harm. My argument doesn't mention this at all, so this attack is a matter of opinion and it falls. He also states that public humiliation that does not inflict bodily harm is against the…
ok this is round 2 getting typed from my iPod touch. I am 'forfeiting' so it is possible to carry on the debate. Cheers
474.
Society would be better with fewer laws
For
My first paragraph was not "ultimately rhetoric." You seem to be engaging in wishful thinking. I actually gave an entire argument in that first paragraph. Freedom was introduced to support my position in my opening argument, but it is not the only reason that supports my…
There should be as few laws as possible. This position is supported by freedom. People should have as much freedom as possible. In order for people to have as much freedom as possible, there must be as few laws as possible. Thus, by Modus Ponens of Should using the preceding…
Against
My opponents has stated that less laws are always better than more laws. His first paragraph was ultimately rhetoric so lets dive into the only argument presented by my opponent and ultimately what this debate will come down to is safety v. freedom. I believe we should always…
So my opponent in his last speech agreed that security of people is ultimately important. Since he agrees with this let's look at the fishing license. This deals with animal safety. Wildlife is important, and fishing licenses protect animal's rights and allow fishing for…
475.
Attempted crimes should receive the same sentences as successful ones
For
=Retribution=I dismissed them, because this is an "Appeal to authority" fallacy. Just listing people, organizations, and codes agreeing with retribution does not suffice as evidence that it is a legitimate goal of justice, since human beings(which are part of organizations and…
Rebuttal Argument 1I listed off 3 rational reasons for the criminal justice system.It is true that four basic purposes are often listed. However, even though retribution is still often cited as a justification there is nothing rational about retribution.Retribution is not as I…
Against
Many thanks to MasturDbtor for his post.Let us move directly to the arguments==Retribution==My opponent insists my arguments consisted of appeal to authority fallacy. I disagree. I actually used appeal to AUTHORITIES. And let us list the authorities which agreed with my…
Thanks a lot to MastuDbtor for his post.Rather than going for headings like 'Rebuttal to Rebuttal Argument #2 & Counter-Rebuttal 1st Rebuttal', it will be better if discuss the issues topic by topic. I hope it will make the debates easier to follow.==Burden of Proof==Let me…
476.
Laws are not always morally right
For
No worries. Please no one vote for this and make it a draw.
Just because I think some of the laws are wrong and not acceptable moral-wise does not mean that I want to go around killing people. I am an officer in the military and if I did that I would automatically be fired and sent off to jail. If you having nothing better to say con I…
Against
rules are rules and rules are rules which rule over the ruler of rool.
sorry mang, misundrstood u
477.
Media organizations should not report on ongoing court cases
For
Debate challenges on DDO confuse me immensely. In the WODC, there are no round structure specifications Since this is technically considered the first round of debating for the WODC, I will follow my usual format of framing arguments in the first round. 1. Media can complicate…
For WODC 2016.
Against
My position on this issue is that there is no harm caused by media organizations reporting on ongoing court cases; therefore, there is no reason to believe that they should not do so. If I can negate your arguments, I have proven my case. Rebuttal #1: Complicating mattersThere…
We were supposed to have three debating rounds, not including acceptance, so we'll have to put the final round in the comments. The round structure will go as follows:2. Opening arguments3. RebuttalsComments: DefenseVoters: Please take note of this, although it normally isn't…
478.
Children should have access to their own records
For
Do you believe that children should be given access to their records to tell who their biological parents are or to know their family history?
Against
Thank you, thank you very much.
Okay, as an argument was not offered by my opponent, I will make the 1st argument. Children should NOT be give access to their records for the simple fact that they are children. Children are often too naive to understand why they have been separated from their parents, and…
479.
The Twenty-Second Amendment should be repealed
For
I will start with his last point. For my opponent to suggest that the USA is not a democracy (because, as he says it is a "federal republic") is, to say the least, bizarre. It would appear that he is confusing concepts. Republic (res publica - latin for "public thing") is "a…
I must say I am glad that my opponent has elected to argue this topic on its merits rather than on semantic grounds. However, I believe it is fairly clear that my choice of the word "logical" referred to a specific meaning of it, namely "reasonable". In his reply, my opponent…
Against
For the sake of brevity I will not mention the issues on which we have agreed. DEMOCRACY vs. REPUBLIC My opponent erroneously calls the government of the United States a Democracy. He is correct in identifying the roots of the word 'republic'. However, the term has evolved into…
For the sake of simplicity I will answer my opponent in the order he presented his rebuttals. 1. I will provide both a factual example and a hypothetical one. a) Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR) was ultimately elected to four concurrent terms. This would be considered…
480.
Youth shoplifting should be treated as theft
For
Basically my case is that stealing is stealing. The vast majority of the poor (96%) had continuous food and housing over the past few years. Most kids can tell that stealing is immoral. And private charity exists for those in need.I urge a PRO vote. Thanks for reading.
Shoplifting is stealing.If you take some guys stuff, that is considered stealing.There should not be any difference regarding children, as the same exact act has been committed.Let's look at it this way. If I am adult who eats pie, the action is "eating pie". If a kid is doing…
Against
So this is how it's going to go: Round 1: Intro/Opening statements of your side. Round 2: State arguments and also defend your side. Round 3: Rebuttals So I've decided to take the con side of this debate. I think shoplifting has its morals as well, and while shoplifting is…
481.
The legal age of adulthood in America should be changed
For
While proficiency in the use of computers does give Millennials an upper hand in white collar positions in America, it does little to help those who are entering the blue collar industries. In those fields, where post-secondary education is not necessarily needed, experience…
Young American adults are in duress due to today's climate. From the highest expectations in education that Americans have ever seen, to a disturbingly high unemployment and poverty rate, Millennials are suffering. It is my stance that the youth of our nation are asked far more…
Against
Here is my bottom line up front: Raising the age of majority from 18 (in most states) to 22 is a counter-productive solution to the job scarcity problem you have defined. The age of majority is defined based upon emotional and physical maturity associated with becoming an…
Older American adults are in duress due to today's climate. From the highest levels of technology that Americans have ever seen, to a disturbingly high rate of skill obsolescence and turnover from automation and workforce replacement, Millennials are rapidly changing the…
482.
Fourteen-year-olds convicted of first-degree murder should be sent to adult prison
For
Good rebuttal. IF the brain does not fully develop judgement until the ages 25-30, then those under that age (including 14 year olds) should be treated equally due to an immature and underdeveloped frontal lobe. It is constitutional. The Eighth Amendment states, "Excessive bail…
Living in adult prison as a 14 year old is a much better way to punish a murderer. They were old enough to commit this disgusting crime so they are able to spend adult time. Different people cope and react to spending time in prison in different ways. The underground violent…
Against
Those who are 25-30 are capable of handling themselves in prison because of their physical demeanor. They are much stronger, and more capable of handling themselves than a 14 year old. And while that part of their brain is not fully developed, other parts of their brain are for…
In a juvenile prison, the child would still be punished for their actions and crimes, however they would be treated exactly as they are: a fourteen year old child. The adults that they would look up to would help them understand the punishment they've been sentenced while also…
483.
Supreme Court justices should serve life terms
For
Yes, because the Supreme Court Justice is a very, very serious court that judges serious issues. Therefore if they don't have life terms, it couldn't be a fair judging the serious issues. These issues make a huge impact on today's society and decide laws for the U.S. If they…
Against
In Round 1, I think you may have forgotten that we all die at some point and time. The way you were saying "If they didn't have life terms who knows what would happen five minutes later." Well, if a Justice is 94 years old and in Court one day, drops over dead with a heart…
Serving for life is absurd. Once appointed by the Senate, our constitution states in Article III, Section I that "The judges both of the Supreme and Inferior Courts, shall hold their Offices during good Behavior." The term "Good Behavior" is interpreted to mean that judges can…
484.
Abandoning a pet should be a criminal offense
For
I'm not your brother i'm just a little boy who is 3 and that doesn't mean crap to me…
Animal abandoning is killing the animal and showing you don't care for the animal and who does this should go to…
Against
i think you have a point brother, but what will we use to test our…
I will capture evey dog in usa and use them to test…
485.
Atheism should be protected under the First Amendment
For
Thanks to my opponent for inviting me to debate this topic with him. Let's get to it. Atheism is as fully protected under the first amendment of the constitution as much as Christianity, Islam, or Judaism. CASE LAW Reed v. Great Lakes Cos., 330 F.3d 931, 934 (7th Cir. 2003)…
I accept. Atheism is not only "allowed" but protected under the constitution according to the federal government.
Against
Here is the quote from the bill of rights. "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof" t: . http://constitution.findlaw.com... So, from this statement we can conclude that congress can make no law against…
Athiesm is ALLOWED under the constitution but is not protected. Protected and allowed have to different meanings and protected does not apply to atheism. but I do agree that atheism is allowed under the constitution.
486.
Legislation should extend First Amendment rights to employees and students
For
I have been criticized by some for a perceived over-reliance on semantics. But there is a big difference between my opponent's argument when he mentions "My opponent is essentially trading off one right for another..." and his more recent reference to that same argument where…
I will counter my opponent's arguments in the order in which they appear in his argument. ". .. the resolution will in fact make it so private employers will have no right to restrain speech in their workplace. " Not so. Instances of speech containing threats, sexual or ethnic…
Against
I will now counter my opponent's arguments in the order he has listed them (which were listed in order against my case) Then I will go over a few brief points I will accept his definition of the resolution on his first point, where he states that other laws still apply. On his…
I accept the challenge and look forward to rigorous debate on this topic. First of all, it must be noted that in the status quo, people retain free speech rights but are only protected from the state and national governments under the 1st, 5th, and 14th Amendments combined.…
487.
Drunk driving should be legal
For
You should vote me the conduct point because Yraelz accepted without approval and forfeited.
I stopped reading Yraelz's argument after he said "drunk driving should conditionally be legal for individuals who can pass a basic simulation." That's a good idea and I agree completely. It's also a concession, so the debate's over. I kinda feel bad for Yraelz, because it's a…
Against
It is obvious that FT has destroyed me.
Much obliged FourTrouble, as always. The Burden of the Opposition: To be clear readers my burden in this debate is not to argue that "these are good laws" which currently govern drunk driving. Quite to the contrary my only burden, as the opposition, is to discredit the…
488.
Criminal justice should prioritize retribution over rehabilitation
For
26 Minutes to make a complete vote worthy conclusion? I'm game. In conclusion: More emphasis should be placed on retribution over rehabilition. This is supported by two core facts I've proven below. - Rehabilitation Programs for violent offenders such as Sex Offenders do not…
1. Felony List Defense" For a retributive system, all crimes must be punished. Since he's restricting himself to his list of crimes, he's rendering his argument irrelevant." The above is a falsehood that my opponent is attempting to pass off as truth. At no point did I agree…
Against
1. Yama's China argumentYama proposes that the US adopt a system similar to China. In China, 68 crimes make one eligible for capital punishment [1]. China's own goal is much less violent than Yama's proposed system is. They say, on their website [2],"People can be reformed. The…
1. Yama's restrictive list of feloniesYama begins his arguments by keeping "crime" to a select list of punishable things, and completely disregards other crime in doing so. For a retributive system, all crimes must be punished. Since he's restricting himself to his list of…
489.
The officer in the 2014 Ferguson shooting was not at fault
For
Well, the Washington Post and Fox News both have reported that Wilson did in fact have a broken eye socket after his altercation with Brown. If he had a broken eye, do you think the "gentle giant" Michael Brown could have possibly been responsible? Remember, multiple bystanders…
You seem to be ignoring the witnesses to the situation. All agree that Officer Wilson was first beaten by Brown then shot him when Brown charged him in an attempt to start a second physical altercation. If a special needs, drugged, 300 pound man was charging at you, after he…
Against
Does the fact that Brown robbed a convenience store make Wilson innocent? While I directly answered your questions, you averted one of my questions: What about the two journalists that were arrested? If Officer Darren Wilson was truly innocent, why have the police arrested two…
On the contrary, you have the wrong facts. CNN announced on August 21 that Brown DID NOT break Wilson's eye socket. Not everyone agrees Brown assaulted Wilson. I wasn't the first person to call him a gentle giant, his family was. I am not debating according to my feelings, I'm…
490.
Murderers should be barred from inheriting from their victims
For
1.August 13, 1808 Francis B. Palmer made his will, leaving his daughters Mrs.Riggs and Mrs. Preston small legacies along with leaving the remainder of his estate to Elmer E. Palmer his grandson. (1.1.1) 2. Elmer lived with the testator at the date of the will and was 16 when…
There is no way to tell that the testator would have potentially changed it , but that still leaves time for him to have changed it. Elmer did not give his grandfather this time to do so. Elmer himself knew his grandfather could have changed his will at any given time which is…
Against
In August of 1880, Francis B. Palmer created his last will and testament, leaving his estate to his two daughters, Mrs. Riggs and Mrs. Preston, and to his grandson Elmer E. Palmer. Elmer lived with his grandfather on a farm which was of considerable worth, along with the other…
Like i said in my previous argument, we have no way to know that Francis Palmer would have revoked or altered his will, even if he knew his grandson could have the potential to kill him for the inheritance. I do agree that the motivation for the killing was to receive the…
491.
Prisons should be stricter
For
prisons should be stricter vs. prisons should stay the same
Against
So that ends that. Your welcome, I guess...
My opponent has forfeited last round. I wish to extend arguments.
492.
Laws protect freedom more than they restrict it
For
close
extend
Against
Laws are restricting our freedom. People should be able to do what they want if it is just affecting their own mental or physical health.
493.
The United States should ban assault weapons
For
Assault weapons are used to kill a greater number of people
Assault weapons are used by drug cartels, kill thousands
Against
An assault weapon ban violates the second amendment
Decline in assault weapons due to decline in assault pistols
494.
Arranged marriage should be banned by law
For
Tired . . .
Yawn
Against
Snore.
Thanks.
495.
The Defense of Marriage Act was unconstitutional
For
It has certainly been worth the time. I am glad to see that my opponent and I have reached a mutual understanding of full faith and credit. He has agreed that Congress's power to regulate full faith and credit in this situtation is dependent upon whether their doing so involves…
It was wise of him to remind the reader of this. My opponent was also wise to bring up the second half of the full faith and credit clause, which allows congress to "prescribe the manner in which such acts, records, and proceedings, shall be proved, and the effect which…
Against
I appreciate my opponent's concern that he may have annoyed me with his anticipatory rebuttals, and he need not worry. As a matter of fact, it is sort of an unspoken rule that the final debater never bring up new arguments. The final debater may summarize his/her position and…
I must extend much appreciation to my opponent as he is both a challenging debater and remarkably well written, which is made all the more impressive given his age. In order to keep the scope of this debate on target, I will once again remind the readers that we are arguing for…
496.
Private property should be a fundamental right
For
Thank you for your response Private Property as a Right Just to recap last round I was making pretty much two points and I would like to push one a little further. I pointed out the government's obligation to not take away a citizen's property. What I am confused about is that…
Thank you to con for instigating the debate. I look forward to some thoughtful discussion. I agree to take on the burden of proof as con has proposed. I do, however, slightly disagree with his point about something being a right. I do generally agree with con's point about an…
Against
Pro didn't provide the full definition of private property from their source, which is important for this debate. "Private Property is a legal designation for the ownership of property by non-governmental legal entities. Private property is distinguishable from public property,…
Does the 14th amendment guarantee private property as a right?You know what is interesting about the 14th amendment, that I just noticed now? It doesn't guarantee private ownership of property specifically, it just states that "...nor shall any state deprive any person…
497.
Hate crimes should carry enhanced penalties
For
Thanks Snelld, you make some great arguments and put them across clearly. As you've already done so, I shall drop the overly-formal tone referring to you as 'my opponent' in the third person and talk to you directly. Firstly let's look at the two crime examples in your post…
Hello again. I am quite new to debating so forgive my inexperience if it as a standard style of debate, but I find my opponent's approach to this debate fascinating as two rounds into a 4 round debate, he doesn't seem to have made any argument of his own. He says he is against…
Against
Thank you for answering my questions. This will be a very intersesting debate. The reason I asked you those set of questions was to get clarification on a few points you made. I've broken the arguments into numbers to help with confusion in later rounds. 1) The difference…
Due to there being no CROSS EX, I'll ask you a few questions before I go on and answer your arguments. 1) Provide me with a definition of crime (just regular crime) """I believe that Hate Crime Enhancement is justified because of the extremely serious nature of crimes of this…
498.
Marijuana should be legal with some restrictions
For
Here are the main reasons why I think marijuana should be legalized with an age and area restriction.1) Tax dollars saved vs. tax dollars wastedtax money wasted on arrests for possesion of marijuana:tax payers spend between 1.5 to 3 billion dollars a year trying and imprisoning…
Restriction 1: 18 and older Restriction 2: not allowed in public buildings, restaurants, schools, or areas designated that it is not allowed. Restriction 3: the sale of marijuana will be illegal without going through a vendor. It'll be legal to grow it, but only in small…
Against
Thanks for the interesting statement Pro. Ave!1.) TAX DOLLARS SAVED VS. TAX DOLLARS WASTEDYou are correct that legalization would procure a certain amount of tax revenue, although as you can see, specific amounts are highly disputed between sources. The Businessweek estimate is…
I accept. I'll be arguing in favor of sticking with the legal status we have now. Good luck!
499.
Jailing people for leaving the military or dodging the draft violates the 13th Amendment
For
All arguments extended again. That was a weird comment. What arguments are you extending? The ones I already argued against? Are you giving up?
All arguments extended.
Against
All arguments extended.
If it is, I'll forfeit the next round to make it even. Also, we have basically the same username. I thought that was cool. On to business. The primary problem with your argument is that you suggest the Amendment supersedes the rest of the Constitution. Article III, Section VIII…
500.
Prisoners should have a constitutional right to outside visits
For
I believe taking away someones loved ones constitutes torture. Prisoners should definately lose some rights in prison but not all of them. John Locke created the concept of natural rights or rights every person is born into regardless of any circumstance. Every person should…
the 8th amendment discusses no unusual punishment taking away visits from the outside denies family members the chance to see their loved ones and by seeing their loved through bullet proof glass should actually help a prisoner realize how much they have done wrong. They can…
Against
The 8th amendment stipulates no cruel or unusual punishment and no excessive bail, denying prisoners visiting rights does not violate either of the aspects of this amendment .
It is not often that prisoners are denied visits from the outside and when it happens it is normally for the best, their is usually a good reason. Again this is a policy debate not a values debate and we are arguing whether the 8th amendment allows courts to suspend a prisoners…

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