Law Debate Topics — page 26

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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1251.
The Supreme Court was right to legalize same-sex marriage
For
As my opponent has forfeited his rebuttal round, all of my arguments still stand.SCOTUS's ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges was correct. With a quick review of the Constitution, it can be discerned that marriage, as a legal contract, is protected by the Constitution. By the…
Because both my opponent and I have posted one argument, we will continue as planned, beginning with rebuttals in round three.My opponent opened his argument by defining 'correct' in order to best fit the Resolution. I would agree with his definition "Correctness is a property…
Against
Correctness is a property of something applied to certain rules. An equation may or may not be correct according to the predefined rules of the set of numbers used. 2 + 2 = 4 is correct because in the set of natural numbers, 2 units added to another 2 units will render 4 as a…
1252.
The US should phase out the death penalty
For
This is a debate related to the elimination of the death penalty. This first round is meant to establish the rules and parameters of the debate, along with finding a willing opponent. There will be 3 extra rounds for the actual debate, which make 4 total. I am Pro - I will…
"Again ethical..." Yes, life in prison is a sufficient punishment and safeguard for society. You admit that a murderer's actions are unethical, but when the state returns the favor, you fail to see what's unethical. That is quite a disconnect. Additionally, victims are not…
Against
How a state government works is this, we as citizens gives up some power so that the state protects our unalienable rights and in return we live by those laws that the state has set forth. When someone who just broke one of the biggest laws set forth, which is we do not kill…
Again ethical... Is life in prison really a fair punishment for a man killing another person? There is no justice being served here. Just because Gandhi says something doesn't mean everyone should agree with his teaching. Not torture, but deliver the same punishment that the…
1253.
LSD should be legal under a licensing system
For
You claim LSD has all these dangers but if it isnt actually harming the user how is that a bad thing. Just because the side effects exist doesn't mean that you will get them every single trip. As I stated before hundreds of thousands of people seem to find LSD a great drug and…
Those three reasons are pointless as they hardly indicate danger at all. No one has ever become an LSD addict in the sense that they feel the have to have LSD. No one would want to trip everyday all day long. Why does a more potent dosage cause more danger. There is 0% of…
Against
Rebuttals: "Those three reasons are pointless as they hardly indicate danger at all." I presented the reason: "The inconsistent effects and potential adverse reactions lead to erratic use of LSD. This can be seen as exciting and users will not become bored." This is potentially…
Potential For Abuse and Dangers:There are various cases of LSD being abused extensively. LSD is not technically addictive, but it does develop a strong sense of dependability on users, much like marijuana. The DEA has developed three reasons as to why LSD users may find…
1254.
The United States should abolish the death penalty
For
I will also define the United States of America, as requested by my opponent. United States of America: The 50 states of the sovereign constitutional republic officially known as the United States of America. I will be basing my case, that the death penalty should be abolished,…
The debate will be structured as follows. R1: Acceptance R2: Opening Arguments R3: Rebuttals R4: Defense and closing arguments.
Against
I ask the judges to forgive some formatting and other errors due to writing this in small ten minute blocks on my cellphone. Thanks in advance My opponent is arguing the position that the death penalty should be completely abolished. I don"t have to argue the status quo to win…
I accept, but I want to ask my opponent for a few concessions. I would ask him to allow me to make new arguments in the final rounds and not him, given my disadvantage of going last. I would also like him to define "The United States".
1255.
The death penalty should apply to all major crimes
For
Take the example of a school shooter or a pedophile. They KNOW and UNDERSTAND what they are doing wrong! The school shooter knows it is wrong to take lives, who doesn't? Only if we were a psychopath and guess what? Being a psychopath is a medical condition that can't be healed,…
Extending this to minor crimes as well isn't necessary. It would be necessary a really cold thinking to be Pro in that debate, that is another debate, you see? Why would you kill someone for dropping an empty cookie bag on the street? Yes, the person wouldn't do it again but.…
Against
Take this scenario. There are three people stranded on a deserted island. Bob, Joe, and Jack. They ration out the resources they find between themselves. One day, the resources they find are scanty, and Joe is at least temporarily incapacitated because he was bitten on the leg…
I think that criminals have an intuition that what they are doing is wrong--not necessarily an understanding that what they are doing is wrong. If they are educated to understand the analytical philosophy behind why it is wrong, then they probably will come out of prison…
1256.
Gun control leads to a less violent society
For
It seems to be a debate wasted.
I shall encourage my opponent, considering his opposing stand against gun control to provide his answer to the first 3 arguments that I have risen. Refutals: 1) Guns to be made more expensive(Not Gun Control): In order for this argument to hold either of the two following…
Against
Gun control is not necessarily needed. In my personal opinion, what needs to be done is ... 1) Guns to be made more expensive(Not Gun Control) 2) Wether guns are controlled or not, they will still be there.
1257.
Employers should be legally allowed to fire employees for being gay
For
This is stupid.
I extend all arguments.
Against
It should NOT be legal to fire people because they are gay. People get fired based on how poorly of a job they do, or if they do something wrong at a job. If someone is gay and is very well at their job, you think they should be fired just because they like the same sex? If you…
1258.
Terrorists should be subject to the Geneva Conventions
For
Poor treatment of terrorists affirm terrorist ideology and provides a recruitment tool.
1) Terrorists are engaged in war, which is subject to the Geneva Conventions.
Against
Special interrogation methods are necessary in order to combat the terrorist threat.
Terrorists are not lawful combatants, therefore they not do not acquire prisoner of war status.
1259.
The death penalty should be abolished worldwide
For
Justice- Justice requires punishing the guilty, When a criminal does an act to fulfill his selfish motives resulting into personal gains then the equilibrium of justice in society is disturbed. To maintain this equilibrium the criminal should be punished with the same intensity…
Threat of Death Penalty; Rate of Serious offences Decrease; If we threaten the death penalty more often and more open, and it is legal, more people wont commit homicide or rape, or any infractions like that. PEOPLE ARE AFRAID OF DEATH!? it is punishment by society for a…
Against
My opponent"s whole argument is based on the assumption that humans are capable of understanding to what degree something should be punished, and if they are capable of getting the same effects the offender was put under. And since my opponent talks of equilibrium, my opponent…
My opponent makes the argument that putting the death penalty in place will deter people from committing crimes, but who"s to say that it will deter more people than encourage people? Yes, people do find the death penalty to be an escape and would much rather want to die than…
1260.
Same-sex marriage should not be banned
For
I will now post my final words in this round. I would like for the audience to read these statements: "We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquillity, provide for the common defence, promote the general…
My opponent has agreed to the definitions for the key terms listed in round 1. I will proceed with countering my opponent's responses. Counter Argument 1. Like I have stated, our definition of right and wrong is all in determination of our own opinion. For example, you think…
Against
Time for the final round. "Liberty is granted to all men and women in the US...." Not really. Homosexuals aren't being discriminated against. Homosexuals are not allowed to marry those of the same sex. Heterosexuals are not allowed to marry those of the same sex. See? Same…
"Like I have stated, our definition of right and wrong is all in determination of our own opinion. For example, you think homosexual marriage is wrong, therefore you consider it to be immoral. Proven before, this is your opinion as well as many others who feel the same way.…
1261.
The United States should legalize marijuana
For
My arguments still stand.
I will be affirming the resolution that Marijuana should be legalized in the U. S. My argument will consist of five contentions in which I will prove that the U. S. government should legalize marijuana. Contention 1: People deserve the freedom My first point will be that there…
Against
First I would like to say this debate has happened at least 10,000 times, and pro for legalization always wins because it has sooo many good reasons, but in this debate I would like to twist this. I smoke pot, and I will admit it, so my arguments won't really be about health…
1262.
Students should be allowed to carry guns on campus
For
"States which passed concealed carry laws reduced their murder rate by 8.5%, rapes by 5%, aggravated assaults by 7% and robbery by 3%; and, If those states not having concealed carry laws had adopted such laws in 1992, then approximately 1,570 murders, 4,177 rapes, 60,000…
"I would like to start the debate by telling you that while reading your other debates I remain quite impressed, you are a very intelligent person." Well, it doesn't seem to get me anywhere around here. Heh... But I thank you for your candor all the same. I'm looking forward to…
Against
You are quite skilled in rhetoric my friend. A 1991 article in the anti-gun New England Journal of Medicine attempted to show that the registration law in D.C. reduced the average (arithmetic mean) number of gun-related homicides per month following the implementation of the…
I would like to start the debate by telling you that while reading your other debates I remain quite impressed, you are a very intelligent person. This was the primary reason for me starting this debate; I am rather neutral on this matter. I'd like to say Good luck.…
1263.
Recreational drugs should be legal
For
People who do drugs have a right to treat there bodies the way they want as long as they are not hurting anybody else. If drugs are legal when people are being affected by drugs they will be able to call for help without worrying about being arrested.
Drugs should be legal because the majority of deaths involving drugs are due to selling them illegally.
Against
If you legalize drugs there would still be violence especially if you not your self for taking a lot of them. If they do legalize drugs there would still be illegal drug dealing and violence will still go around for illegal drug dealing.
Drugs shouldn't be legal because nothing good comes drugs. Some drugs are addictive and and you would keep on wanting them. If you do to many you will overdose and after a while die from it. Also they can cause some serious health problems and consumed daily can kill you.
1264.
Dog fighting should be legalized
For
Dog fighting ought to be legalized. This is a source of income that has not been exploited. God gave man dominion over animals and animals have no souls, therefore this action is justified. http://biblehub.com...
I find my opponent's argument arbitrary. First, the laws are important, then talks about suffering in dog fighting. Next, how factory farming is more justified than dog fighting. This doesn't make any sense, we don't need meat to survive. In fact, humans are healthier on…
Against
Pro does not address that factory farming is beyond the scope of the resolution. The fact that factory farming is legal has no bearing on the resolution whatsoever, because the status quo is not necessarily the ultimate normative end. I'm not necessarily advocating for the…
I'm short on time at the moment - I am typing this at 9:40 P.M. in the night, and I still have homework left, so I apologize in advance if my arguments are poor. Governments pass laws when there is a government interest to do so. A government interest is formed when the end…
1265.
Prostitution should be legal in the United States
For
I, as a debater, hoped that you would have thought up some new, stumping situation for me to wriggle out of, but seeing as you have not, I will proceed to file my disagreements with your rebuttal. "If you legalize prostitution sex will become public. Yes there might not be…
I have two problems with your arguments. 1. "By your logic I could sell a felon a handgun just becuse I can own one." Sex is not a dangerous activity, and cannot kill people, unlike guns (although arguably ANYTHING could kill someone, sex is not generally related to killing or…
Against
In 1986 Victoria Australia legalized prostitution and brothels and installed a plan to have the prostitutes registered and check by medical professionals. Shortly after starting this program the STD rates increased. Not to mention legalizing prostitution encourages women to…
If you legalize prostitution sex will become public. Yes there might not be people having sex in the streets but it will become more public than it is now. Also prostitution leads to an increase in both STD's and crime.
1266.
The federal government should require all states to legalize same-sex marriage
For
Note: I am far too busy to finish this. I am sorry. CirRk wins
My opponent argues that even though the marriage is not a right per se, it is implied in the Declaration of Independence. There are a few problems with this: First, the Declaration is not a legally binding document but rather a list of philosophical justifications for the…
Against
Ok. Good debate.
Pro Case First, you said: "The right to marry isn't in any documents like the Bill of Rights, but it is somewhat implied in the United States Declaration of Independence." The point here is that unless you can prove that the Declaration of Independence determines which laws are…
1267.
Casey Anthony should be able to live her life like any normal person after her trial concluded
For
I believe that she should be able to live a normal life without pressure from the media and everyone. Anyone willing to debate?
People can think what they want, and they have a right to ask her questions, but if she refuses to answer they can't continue and harass her with questions and "make her life miserable". How can you"behave like your innocent"? This women's daughter died, regardless of how, how…
Against
You have provided no evidence that Casey Anthony can prove in a court room that she has been a victim of harassment. The free press or any individual can ask her questions even if it makes her uncomfortable provided that there is no law broken. As I have stated, it is my hope…
I must assert that there is no such law that bars persons from asking questions. The free press has that right to approach anyone they want and ask questions. In many cases, the press wants to hear from parties after a case is over. If Casey does not want to face this constant…
1268.
The death penalty should be abolished in the United States
For
Your second argument: You stated that a convicted criminal would much rather spend his/her life in prison rather than be put to death. This is untrue and is a personal view you might have, not representative of entire prison populations. We obviously can't interview every…
I am typing from computer at local library. My internet is down, so sadly, I can't continue the debate at the moment. I am prepared to continue as soon as it is up and running. :(
Against
"Your second argument: You stated that a convicted criminal would much rather spend his/her life in prison rather than be put to death. This is untrue and is a personal view you might have, not representative of entire prison populations. We obviously can't interview every…
I would like to say in my first arguement that the death penilty, can be avioded, and should be. First arguement, my religion's role: God does not want man to punish one another, thus the death penelty is unjust, in that case. After the person in question dies, [s]he is at the…
1269.
Arizona's 2010 immigration law was fair and reasonable
For
Thanks to Con for an excellent debate on a timely topic. I hope at least a few people will read it! I challenged Con to specify exactly what is in the Arizona law that is unfair or unreasonable. Obama's claim that it allows arbitrary harassment is clearly false, and Con didn't…
My opponent has effectively granted that virtually every criticism of the Arizona Law is wrong, including Obama's nonsense about it allowing random harassment. Con's objections are built on the notion that Arizona should have its own open borders immigration policy contrary to…
Against
In last round, Pro often used faulty logic and misinterpreted many of my arguments. I will point these instances out throughout my response. ========== MY OPPONENT'S ARGUMENTS ========== ----- 1 ----- The premise of my scenario comparing a white man and Hispanic man,…
With that said, I will analyze the resolution, refute my opponent's case and then present my own contentions. ==========THE RESOLUTION========== Resolved: The Arizona Immigration Law is fair and reasonable. Fair: free from favoritism or self-interest or bias or deception;…
1270.
Marijuana should be legal in all 50 US states
For
So first off I would not like this to be a nationwide bill, I believe in the tenth amendment, and that we should leave it up to the individual states to decide for themselves, such as Colorado where marijuana is legal for recreational use. You say it is a gateway drug, but if…
This is America Spence... You get to choose how you live your life. If you think getting high for fun is sad, pathetic or just plain wrong doesn't do drugs. But if you would like to do drugs and harm your own body, by all means go right ahead. Its called Natural Selection, the…
Against
Okay though that could work, think about it, marijuana since we can remember has been a drug that has made people think their invincible hence why if we would make it legal kids would abuse this privilege and it would lead them to go to harder more dangerous drugs. Now if we…
I believe that marijuana should be illeagal throughout the US because it is a gate way drug
1271.
The death penalty should not be banned
For
'It appears my opponent has chosen to take the easy road which I hope those who take the time to vote will note. ' my opponent tries to appeal to the general audience by claiming it is the right thing to vote for him since I did not state my case , Like I explained numerous…
'Alright. You state that the burden of proving the illegitimacy lies on my shoulder, I feel as though you should take equal steps to prove the legitimacy of such a measure.' This is a logical fallacy , It doesn't matter what you feel the title clearly says 'There is no good…
Against
My opponent quotes potential statistics, rather than existing statistics of reality. On several occasions my opponent mentions that they believe the way the government currently operates isn't sufficient. Yet my opponent fails to list any meaningful reforms. My opponents math…
It appears my opponent has chosen to take the easy road which I hope those who take the time to vote will note. It is very easy to make a declaration and say now prove me wrong, you are starting with the basic assumption that there is a good reason to perpetuate the death…
1272.
Fornication should be illegal
For
Fornication should be illegal for reasons on which I will elaborate in the next rounds.RULES: Use actual, logical, evidence-based arguments. (i.e. nothing emotion-based like, "But I have the rights to my own body!" or "But you'd be depriving people of happiness!") You can't…
Fornication should be illegal because: -STDs -Unplanned pregnancy -Contraceptives are artificial and no good for oneself -People who fornicate are more likely to get divorced -Teens who have sex are more likely to be depressed I look forward to your rebuttals.
Against
To start this debate, I would also like to set a few "Rules." - We will use this definition of fornication: sexual intercourse between people not married to each other. - Because there is no concrete evidence that anything in the Bible has existed on this Earth, you are…
Okay.
1273.
Gun control laws should be loosened
For
So my opponent is saying that we should prevent people from having guns because accidents can happen. What about the saying you live and you learn. The people should have the chance to make the mistakes, if they believe that having a gun on them makes their life safer, it is…
My opponent says that i am violationg a logical fallocy, however there are many other cases in which this has occured if you dont not believe that the one caused the other. Also, you have no evidence that the one did not cause the other you are just stating fallocies, which i…
Against
OK, I'll use this last round to summarize and explain why I win this debate. Voting issues are as follows. Arguments: 1. Drops In round 2, my opponent dropped Guns = Less Crime, my argument that More Guns = More crime, and Second Amendment. In round 3 he dropped Legal vs…
1. Correlation vs Causation Pro: Other cases of increase happening I'll get to this later. Pro: I have no evidence that one did not cause the other You introduced this statistic, you need to give the link. Without it you can make no assumptions from these statistics. Pro: There…
1274.
Same-sex marriage should not be recognized by the federal government
For
The Supreme Courts decision is null and void, Article 3 of the Constitution lists all the powers granted to the Supreme Court, and none of them include 'defining marriage,' and since there was never ant ammendment passed granting the Supreme Court this power, their decision is…
Thank you for accepting my challenge and now I will provide my argument. Firstly, this debate deals with whether or not the Federal Government should acknowledge gay marriage, not whether it is moral or not. The constitution never grants the Federal Government, let alone the…
Against
The United States Supreme Court has ruled fourteen times that marriage is a fundamental right of all (adult) individuals [1]. The Supremacy Clause of the United States Constitution (Article VI, Clause 2) establishes that the Constitution is the supreme law of the land. It…
I accept the rules and would like to note that the resolution refers to marriage (not marriae). To be clear, I believe marriage is a spiritual contract that could easily be replaced with power of attorney rights. I also don't believe in governmental marriage benefits in…
1275.
Gun control and hunting regulations should be relaxed
For
Ok, cool. I'm glad we can both agree on this American principle and right given to us by our American forefathers.
Well, actually I misunderstood and it is my fault. I only read your opening statement and thought you were for gun control. I, however, am not and am glad to see that you are as well. Then, I saw afterwords, that I had taken on the side of "pro" on gun control. I'm sorry for…
Against
Sure. My bad.
You no what? I meant to make myself Pro instead of Con. My mistake! I agree wholeheartedly with you. Sorry.
1276.
Private gun ownership should be legal
For
firstly, a true law-abiding citizen would know how to make a law measure to solve a problem. acting as a vigilante with a murderous weapon while the police is there is surely not what a law-abiding citizen would do.' This statement was not based on facts. In almost every case a…
Actually a Harvard study shows that countries with gun ban have higher crime. Russia has 4 times the crime as the USA and has very strict gun control. Norway, Finland, Germany, and France have low murder rates. Luxembourg has a total handgun ban has a murder rate 9 times higher…
Against
Oh no......
1. i will make it clear that i do not use facts and statistical data because i believe that there is something more than plain facts. moreover, just because one fact stands over all, does not mean we should ignore the rest of the truth right? 2. i understand that a need for a…
1277.
The death penalty should be banned
For
Closing Remarks: Why do humans organize into societies? Some would say the foremost of the duties of the government is to protect the life. And in essence, this is what capital punishment is about. Looking from the prospective of the United States, does our capital punishment…
Thank you for accepting the challenge. I hope this debate would prove more interesting than the last one on this topic. A. It is Cruel My opponent argues against the cruelty of capital punishment as follows: "You're arguing that lethal injection is cruel - not that capital…
Against
>>"Why do humans organize into societies? Some would say the foremost of the duties of the government is to protect the life. And in essence, this is what capital punishment is about." Actually, people organize because none of us are self-sufficient and we need each other and…
A. It is Cruel My opponent has graciously conceded this point with his quote: "The only measurement of cruelty is public perception." Since capital punishment enjoys an approval rating of between 60 & 70% in public perception according to Pew and GALLUP, it is therefore not…
1278.
The death penalty should be abolished
For
Thank you as well for the chance to debate. I am going to start by replying to some things my opponent has stated. "Is it really right to deny adequate justice to a person who has taken many lives just because it costs a few extra penny's out of our wallets?" Rather than cost…
In my opinion the death penalty in the United States should be abolished because of its current extreme financial costs and the possibility of accidently executing innocents. Executing criminals is not worth it if the cost of doing so is radically more than simply confining…
Against
My opponent is clearly basing all of his argument on the fact that the death penalty costs a lot of money. While it is true that the U.S. has trillions of dollars in debt, we must not cut budgets for giving justice to those who deserve it. Rather then that, we should cut the…
I do acknowledge that in some cases that innocent people have died out of mistakes, but this in no way calls for it abolishment. It merely calls for reforms in procedure. The numbers of innocent people on death row have been exaggerated over the years. [1] We should just use…
1279.
The death penalty should be kept and enforced
For
Now for the rebuttals. Alright,so you have said that the death penalty is wrong because innocents die from it.Now let me repeat what I have said and allow me to explain just what I've been trying to say.Here's the thing,the judicial systems and the people are the one to…
My second point on why the Death Penalty should be kept and enforced. The death penalty must be kept and enforced because people must learn their place as human beings and not gods to show them that they have no right to murder anyone no matter what.Sure,there's proof that in…
Against
I see your argument completely. I understand the point you are trying to get across. That criminals should be sentence to the death penalty, if they in fact commit murder. That is, in my opinion, barbaric. I do not believe one death should result in another, one sadness in…
I would like to suggest that we leave religion out of this considering that the bible is a book that can be questioned but the Holocaust was a real event that no one can deny. But for argument's sake let's use the bible. One of the ten commandments is "thou shalt not kill".....…
1280.
Capital punishment should be illegal
For
Capital Punishment should not be legal. The effectiveness of the death penalty is equal to the effectiveness of life in prison without parol.
Life in prison without parole is a better alternative in every way, including cost.
Against
If the case is a really bad, say if there was more than one murder or multiple kidnappings, then the death penalty shouldn't be an option. If the case wasn't as bad, say if a guy murdered one guy and doesn't have a history of being a criminal in the past, the they should have…
I believe that before a death penalty is given, the crime should be carefully looked over. They should make laws about when to give the death penalty. For example, if a person was to kidnap a child and the child didn't try to fight back and got killed, that person should…
1281.
Individuals should be able to refuse involvement in same-sex weddings
For
The debate is about religious beliefs vs. discrimination against gay people, trying not to side with either side. Some religions condemn gay marriage, primarily Christianity. The church therefore, can certainly avoid giving a marriage certificate, but what about people who are…
The church is separate from the state and should be free to avoid homosexual marriages.
Against
"If a person doesn't want to give a marriage certificate for a gay couple, the person should be free to do so. " The government issues marriage certificates. If you work for the government you can't use your position to discriminate. And nor should you since we don't live in a…
Discrimination: The unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people or things, especially on the grounds of race, age, or sex. Denying a group of people services because of their sexuality is no different than discriminating on the basis of race or sex and is…
1282.
The AR-15 should not be called an assault rifle
For
In the response to the previous mass shootings, I would like to argue that the AR-15 is NOT a "assault" rifle as many would claim that it is. Many [liberals] have proposed that the gun be banned, even at the march for lives event, many of the participants there had no concept…
Rebuttals: Definitions of the "assault" rifle As you have provided definitions from that website, I will explain the first definition, then the second. #1. The AR-15 cannot be set to "automatic firing" mode.An AR-15 in its stock form can only be able to fire in a…
Against
From Merriam Webster Dictionary: Definition of assault rifle : any of various intermediate-range, magazine-fed military rifles (such as the AK-47) that can be set for automatic or semiautomatic fire; also : a rifle that resembles a military assault rifle but is designed to…
I will argue that your claim violates your rule #8: "For all undefined terms, individuals should use commonplace understandings that fit within the logical context of the resolution and this debate" "Assault" weapon is not a technical term. It therefore can only be wrong if the…
1283.
Released criminals should be tattooed on the face
For
Criminals should be tattooed on the face indicating the crime they have perpetuated. This would let the general public be aware of a criminal in their vicinity once released in the general public. The criminal would have their forehead tattooed with "Killer" or "Burglar" or…
When I'm elected President, My first point of business will be the amendments to the 2'md constitution as well as the 8'th constitution. The Constitution was written 300 years ago during the time when we had horse and buggy, Wild west, Savage Indians and tyrannical governments.…
Against
I will meely say this, I don't think you willeve be president, I think trying to amend the second or 8th amendments will not be that easy, Barring the abolition of the 8th amendment, You would not be able to brand criminals on the face, Its cruel pointless and would make their…
I would respectfully remind the opposition that we do not live in a dactatorship we don't really even live in a democracy, Not an absolute democracy at any rate, The will of the mob or the people, However you wish to look at it, Is restricted by a constitution, Protecting…
1284.
All drugs should be decriminalised
For
In addition to our fourth argument: Decriminilisation of drugs will diminish organised crime
Decriminalising drugs will make them safer
Against
Why is it legitimate for the government to ban drugs
Drugs are bad
1285.
Banning guns is a bad idea
For
By the way....Welcome to Debate.org! :) I noticed you were new. Now let's begin. "in a safe locked up in a closet. Guns save lives.com has over a thousand stories of times people have defended them selves with guns" They will be safely locked in a closet, where you have to find…
Great topic of debate. First, I would like to say that I DO believe people should have guns, BUT I think some restrictions and maybe background checks should be put in place. That said, let's begin. "When those criminals break into our houses, rape, kidnap and murderer us good…
Against
Thanks !!!! Some people keep guns all ready loaded (not a good idea if you have pets of kids) so they can simply grab it and be ready while some people keep them under the bed, in a drawer next to their bed ecc so it is easier to reach if you need it. 4 years ago my mom heard a…
Thanks for your input. I respect and understand what you have to say and you even beat me on some argument some I strongly disagree with. 1 even though people may not find their guns in the middle of the night in some cases they do. Some people choose to keep their gun besides…
1286.
Barack Obama violated the Constitution during his presidency
For
Yes I agree with you, every president has used the law to his own advantage, that is how politicians work, however that sentence should not be true. I know this is going off topic, however the president should not need to break the constitution to be able do what he needs to do…
Since the start of his term in 2008, Barack Obama has bypassed congress at least 15 times. He has done this with Obamacare, and the minimum wage, as well as immigration laws. From the beginning he has had an "If Congress wont act, I will," kind of attitude. Heritage foundation…
Against
Congress sometimes can be extremely uptight and difficult to get things done. That is just bound to happen if you have a room full of people from opposing parties.Obama in fact is notorious in not having conversation with Congress before putting through his actions. And not all…
Although I am representing the CON side, I would like to point out that he has in fact several times been extremely close to breaking a law. https://www.committeeforjustice.org...http://www.forbes.com...But there is something called Constitutional interpretation, so basically…
1287.
Same-sex marriage should be legal
For
Will do. =) 1. Popular Vote vs. Equality: To clarify, I never stated that the popular vote is meaningless. I merely stated that there is an exception that cannot be forgotten nor ignored. Take the civil war, for example. The events that led to such a "civil unrest" were similar…
And I am thankful for your willingness to debate this topic with me. =) My opponent asserts that the passage of a law protecting homosexual marriage rights is against our nation's ideals in that it would disregard the popular vote. I will admit that I have disregarded the…
Against
She turned out to be quite the opponent. 1. Popular Vote vs. Equality In order for this to be true my opponent would have needed to substantiate that there was inequality. Heterosexuals and homosexuals have equal rights. Every person has the right to marry one person of the…
For the sake of clarity, I will try and distill my opponent's points into numerical categories. I would also like to ask my opponent to do this in her following round – for both the readers and my own sake. . ;'*^? .;'*^? .;'*^? .;'*^? .;'*^? .;'*^? .;'*^? .;'*^? 1. In regard…
1288.
Supporting the criminalization of marijuana is not racist
For
It is regrettable that my opponent is not able to continue this debate. Turning it over.
Although the resolution was worded negatively so that I could take the "Pro" position, it is difficult for me to anticipate what my opponent's arguments will be and, therefore, this round will focus on a rebuttal of the most common argument I have heard for why supporting the…
Against
Thanks again to tulle for this debate. Since it is the last round, I'll offer a brief summary of my arguments.In the previous round, I argued that race itself is not solely biological - it is a social phenomenon. In other words, race is defined by a set of meanings (created by…
NOTE: I apologize for forfeiting the previous round. If readers of the debate want to take off conduct points, I completely understand. That said, in the spirit of debate, I'd appreciate it if they did not take off points for arguments. Thank you. Now, onto my…
1289.
Same-sex marriage should be prohibited by law
For
"Population is good. Plus, gay marriage legalization would only lead to about 0.6% more marriages in the whole USA" Population is not always "good". There are even concerns now about global overpopulation. Furthermore, it is not just about overall population growth or…
Con is missing the point. Yes it is ultimately decided by your genetics. Not only that but evolution has a naturally prescribed role for homosexuals in nearly every species. For the security and preservation of the human race we have to uphold that. "Social Equality" is not…
Against
My opponent has basically stated that Gay uncles are needed as a person to nurture the growth of the nieces and nephews. The only source he has is to defend this is instead about some strange people in American Samoa, where some Gay-like people who consider themselves of a "3rd…
Rebuttals"Allowing gay marriage will ultimately lead to more gay couples feeling more "normal" and hence free to use the IVF technology or even just sex for the sole purpose of having babies in order to reproduce."Population is good. Plus, gay marriage legalization would only…
1290.
The death penalty should be abolished in all states
For
I still think that everyone's life is worth something, no matter how sadistic or evil they act or appear to be. I agree that Mark Goudeau has committed unspeakable crimes and done atrocious things to innocent people, and he may be beyond help and impossible to reform. To answer…
I think that what you are saying is that because we don't have a good way to deal with people who cannot be trusted to be a part of society, so the only thing we can do is kill them. Even though people who might be sentenced to death have done terrible things, their lives are…
Against
There's a very large difference between the old lady in the nursing home and a convicted criminal put on death row. The former of the statement is not a drain on society, she is still being paid to live in those conditions and we're not spending money without getting anything…
You've brought up that people who are sentenced to death have done terrible things, but that their lives are still worth something. The people that are sentenced to death row have proven, to themselves and to others, that that have no quarrels with hurting another individual…
1291.
Men should be permitted to waive parental responsibility before birth
For
The first half of my opponents round 2 argument merely restates what has been already described in detail during this debate and brings nothing new to the table. I know many people with one parent and I do not see that as the basis for a "life of suffering". Besides, not…
"A father's biological job is over at the end of the sexual act. From this point on, the baby is biologically the mother's responsibility and as so has more of a say in the matter than the father." ---This is absolutely correct. The mother does make the decision, but no where…
Against
//"not allowing the father to abandon doesn't guarantee the child will still be raised by both parents as some men simply give a monthly check to their estranged offspring and nothing else. "// Truee this does not guarrantee the child a smooth life, but it makes the father take…
//"If she wants to abort the child, that's fine, it is her body. But if she chooses to keep the child, against the father's wishes, then she should do so alone."// The reason a woman is allowed the right to abort her child is because A)The child is part of the woman's body…
1292.
Civilians should not be allowed to own any guns
For
These phrases: "right of the people peaceably to assemble," "right of the people to be secure in their homes," "enumerations herein of certain rights shall not be construed to disparage others retained by the people," and "The powers not delegated herein are reserved to the…
I accept this challenge
Against
You say that the Constitution does not necessarily condone gun ownership. In United States v. Cruikshank (1876), the Supreme Court of the United States ruled that, "The right to bear arms is not granted by the Constitution; neither is it in any manner dependent upon that…
Guns allow people to defend themselves, both from the State and from each other. Without guns in the hands of the people they are extremely vulnerable to any kind of tyrannical government. Note that every genocide in the past century has been preceded by efforts to disarm the…
1293.
The US should ban torture in interrogations
For
What is this? Your second argument was 7,500 characters in length. And you refuse to read mine because its the same length? Don't try to make me look bad in the comments-if you're not capable of holding up the debate, then just say so and don't bother wasting my time. I give up…
To your first argument: 1. Torture differs from the rest of the interrogation methods you list because it is specifically designed to cause physical and psychological harm to the subject. Not only that, torture is against the 8th Amendment, against the Geniva Convention, and…
Against
Preamble: Length is not a substitute for substance. Please try to be pithy, do you have any idea how many other debates you're holding up making me read your redundant arguments for this one? For you I forgot to explain why flag burning should be banned so please, try to keep…
Preamble: I generally frown upon excessive pre-emptive arguments, but then I guess the typical arguments in favor of torture are quite obvious, so I'll let it slide and thus in my opening address both the points in favor of torture and the pre-empt. 1. The Effectiveness of…
1294.
Same-sex marriage should be legal
For
Thanks! Again, I'll keep this as short as possible. My argument goes as follow: 1) Liberty is a default position in that we assume liberty unless given ample reason to place restrictions on it. (In short, we give liberty and freedom the benefit of the doubt. This is not to say…
Ill make this as brief as possible. My opponent claims my first contention is "trivially true" and that "We all know not to place restrictions on things for no reason." Yes, I know that "we all know." That does not make it trivial or nonobjective. This is not a refutation of my…
Against
Thanks to pro for the debate. As regards pro's argument, he hasn't changed it and, as such, it still remains invalid. Even given that there is no reason to restrict the liberty of homosexuals (which I haven't challenged in this debate), and given that marriage of any kind is…
Thanks to pro for the reply.Pro's ArgumentUnfortunately, the argument that pro is putting forward is still unclear to me. It's not shown how the notions of "nature" and "culture" as defined help his case. Even if I grant that we should not place restrictions on practices…
1295.
Death row inmates should fight in gladiator matches
For
" You say the people are not needed in society, but that is no reason to kill them. There are many people who live in undeveloped areas that are not doing anything for our society, but we certainly shouldn't kill these people. Morality is about doing what's right to other…
The Justification? The justification is that they are not needed in society. Look at "The Black Dahlia" a woman by the name Elizabeth Short. Her head was bashed,face slashed,body mutilated,and her torso sliced in half. Did that murderer deserved death row? Did the Sandy Hook…
Against
You say not killing anyone counts as doing something for society, but someone who is incarcerated for life will not be able to kill anyone, so by your logic, they are doing something for society. The point of the analogy with people who can't do anything was to show that the…
Justification: You say the people are not needed in society, but that is no reason to kill them. There are many people who live in undeveloped areas that are not doing anything for our society, but we certainly shouldn't kill these people. Morality is about doing what's right…
1296.
Courts should be allowed to grant retrospective abortion orders
For
I should like to put his mind at rest by assuring that the retrospective abortion process will be operated on a completely professional and legal basis. To elaborate, any mothers wishing to protect world security by retrospectively terminating their pregnancies would first have…
Austria, 1901. A customs official returns home to his wife.Mr Alois Hitler (for it is he): Good evening, dear.Mrs Klara Hitler (for it is she): Good evening, Alois. Nice day at work?Mr Hitler: Not really, Klara, where's young Adolf? I can't hear him goose-stepping around the…
Against
The Pro has clarified how people who are suspected of being future tyrannical leaders would be examined on an annual basis which may give his argument more believable, but what if a subject is examined multiple times and only once is considered for retrospective abortion? 1 bad…
I would like to start off by saying that reading that conversation the pro listed above has got to be the funniest darn thing ive ever found on this website and even now I cant stop laughing at it when I read it. But in all seriousness the Pro is resting his case on 2…
1297.
Civilians should be banned from possessing firearms
For
Hi wjmelements. Sorry for the delay, but here's your debate on gun rights. Please only accept definitions in first round, and if you don't agree with them, we'll work it out in the comment section. Firearms- Any lethal weapon that launches a projectile through combustion of…
I acknowledge my opponent's confusion about my opening statement, it was an honest misunderstanding. 1. I contest my opponent's case regarding gun crime, that stated "those interested in homocide will either find an illegal firearm or use another means." This is not true. As…
Against
Banning firearms will violate human rights, increase crime, and threaten personal safety. Therefore, I negate this resolution. == Additional Debate Parameter == As both PRO and the Instigator, my opponent has the burden of proof. == The Negative Case == http://www.un.org...…
Unfortunately, my opponent has forfeited his last round. Reiteration: The banning of firearms violates property rights and limits societal happiness while making citizens defenseless against murderers. This negates the resolution.
1298.
Alcohol should be illegal
For
I am taking the stance that Alcohol should be illegal. There have been so many lives lost due to alcohol related accidents, broken families, and health issues.
Against
I accept.=Framework=Pro is advocating for a change in the status quo, and therefore he has the sole burden of proof, and must demonstrate why we should make alcohol illegal. If he fails to prove his plan beyond a reasonable doubt, you vote to negate.=Rebuttals=Pro aruges that,…
Extend.
1299.
The US should require universal background checks for gun sales
For
i never said anything racial in regards to my use of the phrase 'black hoodie'. if voters want to dock con for using racist remarks, and injecting race where it wasn't before, feel free. most people like the idea of background checks. when it gets into specifics, the polls…
con posits we need stricter enforcement of current laws to reduce violence. well, then let's do that. but there is no reason we can't have more checks and such. in fact, it would be completely arbitrary to just say we are at the magic spot restriction wise, and background check…
Against
"i never said anything racial in regards to my use of the phrase 'black hoodie'. if voters want to dock con for using racist remarks, and injecting race where it wasn't before, feel free. " Ok, let's be fair here. I meant nothing negative when I questioned the phrase my…
"if checks work, why not have more? " I see the common sense in that statement, but you're missing the point that background checks aren't effective. You've made the claim that ninety percent of Americans support universal background checks. This is a very vague claim, and it…
1300.
Same-sex marriage should be legal nationwide
For
First of all i would like to nicely ask for you to review your post before you post it because it's kind of hard for me to read and im not really sure what exactly you were saying. I think that maybe this debate isn't going to work out very well because no matter what i say…
"be fruitful and multiply" although same sex couples may not be able to actually conceive and give birth to a baby, they are completely capable of adopting a baby in need of a home or having a woman carrie one for them with artificial insemination. and just because our nation…
Against
A sin is anything wrong or that is not pleasing in gods eyesight ok God does love every one. Did he not make adam and eve or adam and steve it takes a woman to produce a child not a man thats why he did not make two men because they were not capable of producing a child. Its…
your right about not killing and its wrong too the bible also says judge not and you cant say that your country doesn't have people who kill other people and your comment and be fruitful and multiply makes no sense because you said " just because your nation observes religion…

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