Philosophy Debate Topics for Students — page 18

1,989 debate topics, students. Debatable motions with arguments for and against. Open the arguments below, pick one at random, or present them full-screen.

StudentsDebatePage 18 of 40

851.
Death is something to be feared
For
If many people are afraid of something, the thing is called fearful. People scared of death and pain are much more than people who are not.
Death is an afraid thing because death raises pain to us and we are fearful of pain.
Against
Not everybody is afraid of death. Not everybody is afraid of pain, some people don't even feel pain.
most religions have a afterlife, sometimes referred to as "heaven" or "paradise", so most people that truly believe in a religion are not afraid of death because it is not the end of life to them it is the beginning of an eternity of peace.
852.
Daniel Dennett's arguments against qualia fail
For
What you have provided is a summary of his claims about qualia and his objective in his paper, but not his arguments against qualia. His arguments are almost always presented as thought experiments. I suggest you pick three of those.
Daniel Dennett has argued against qualia as he describes them in "Quining Qualia" and other books and articles. I will take the position that any arguments Dennett has made that the Con/Challenger picks, up to three to be presented in his first round, fail to produce a knock…
Against
You didn't even refute those ponts you whining baby.Here are some thought experiments: The coffee-taster case. As Dennett argues, the idea or "intuition" that qualia exist is a robust one that dies hard. It is very natural for us to assume that there are such properties, just…
Whenever someone experiences something as being one way rather than another, this is true in virtue of some property of something happening in them at the time, but these properties are so unlike the properties traditionally imputed to consciousness that it would be grossly…
853.
We cannot prove anything exists outside our consciousness
For
Just because we "agree" on something doesn't make it reality. We believed wholeheartedly in geocentrism and that turned out to clearly not be reality. I'd ask con to please use real arguments and reasons rather than relatively meaningless statements like "if we agree that…
Con's argument holds no water. The official logical progression would look as follows:: (a) The only thing one has direct access to is the contents of one's own mind (one's mental states). What one knows most certainly are one's mental states - one's thoughts, experiences,…
Against
Anil Seth literally said, "when we agree on our hallucinations it becomes reality". Most of the video was him giving a few optical and audio illusions. Reality is an axiom. It is not true nor false, it IS. P.S. Nice to see you!:) I like debating you. We can do one of guns/gun…
Yes, physical things you can touch are things that exist. To ask those questions you are questioning reality as it is. But okay fine. Reality is not a single definition. It is simply something that everyone agrees upon. If there is nobody in the room, but everyone (including…
854.
All propositions are true
For
I do not believe I'm begging the question. I'm using what I've already established in my opening argument to further support my case. My opening argument still stands. I agree that my claim that all propositions are true produces a contradiction. However, since all propositions…
I agree that there are a number of propositions that are not true. However, the fact that there are a number of propositions that are not true does not contradict the claim that all propositions are true. If all propositions are true, then the proposition "there are a number of…
Against
Pro's case is obvious nonsense, and I needn't comment further.
Pro is committing a "begging the question" fallacy https://en.wikipedia.org... they are assuming all propositions are true in an attempt to argue that all propositions are true.Another example of why Pro's proposition is nonsense:If all propositions are true, this implies that…
855.
People can be proven wrong
For
I. Hypothetical ScenarioCon refuses to provide a rebuttal against the scenario itself. Instead, he focuses on one sentence of this argument where I state: "In this scenario, they met the BOP when they showed the tape as evidence in court."Con replies to the video evidence…
I. Hypothetical Scenario.Con refuses to refute this argument based on the grounds that he already did so in the PM. The whole point of this debate was because Con kept claiming he refuted them, when in reality he didn't. Instead, he went on some rant about how everything…
Against
The reason that I'm answering "B-O-T" is because, unlike our Private Messages, these are available to everybody. "B-O-T"continues to deliberately put out Crazy, Lying, Garbage, instead of valid arguments, true statements, logical reasoning, etc. It's obvious that "B-O-T" is a…
You accuse me of "ranting" before, & apparently are still insisting that I'm "ranting" . I'm not. You continue to refuse to take me seriously. You keep insisting that you have to be right, & that I have to be wrong, without ever bothering to check out or think about my…
856.
Evolution explains the reason for human existence
For
I am skipping this round since my opponent fortified.
So in this debate I will explain why Evolution a better reason for our existance than Creationism. I will start by explaining what "Evolution" and "Creationism" mean. I will directly paste what is said in wikipedia. Evolution: Evolution is the change in the inherited…
Against
In fact, your claims are either of these three hypotheses, or perhaps all of them, aren't they? First, the laws of nature are the causes of all beings. Second, all that exist happens to exist by themselves, self replication or self creation. Third, things happen as the causes…
857.
Solipsism is the only true philosophy
For
A dream seems real at the time, "reality" seems real at the time. It is entirely possible for a dream to be reality and what we perceive as reality to be, in fact, a dream. Because our world are so-called observed through senses, why is it implausible that a dream or figment of…
I believe that solipsism is the only true (real) philosophy because of a few things. 1. ) The mind cannot absorb information or observe the world around it, it needs senses to do that. These senses may very well be lying to it because dreams and imagination and memory can be as…
Against
His attempt to wrestle with a central concern in philosophy did not go unnoticed. In fact, such an attempt highlights the importance of philosophic rigor. The mighty individual reinforced our need to understand the consequences of a given set of philosophic premises. The…
Who doesn't love a good Hollywood adaptation? In the Matrix, the Wachowskis panted a wonderful allegory. But within such a story there are necessary truths (see below for a further discussion of the need for "internal logical consistency"). Recall one Key Master. (As an aside,…
858.
The nature of anything can be known from universal natural laws
For
Yes, I believe that I, single-handedly proved to you that quantum mechanics wrong. Science says that all matter is divisible. Definition of matter is one that has mass. It has been proved that a photon has a mass of 1.8(10)-42g. That means that a photon is matter. They said…
By definition, matter is that which has mass. Read more: http://wiki.answers.com... Yes, it can be mathematically calculated. No, it can't be experimentally calculated. The electron has a mass of 9.11 x 10-28 and 5.1 x 1014 photons can produce the photo-electric effect, then…
Against
You mean to say that quantum mechanics has not proved that photons are indivisible particles. But, everyone argues that photons are indivisible. Is that an argument without a proof?
Theory of sivashanmugam (TOS) says that, if you search for divisibility, you will find it everywhere in everything. My question is: Is a photon divisible? Quantum mechanics says that photons are indivisible particles. Quantum mechanics also says that photon is not a particle.…
859.
Utopia already exists in some form today
For
UTOPIA: An ideal and imaginary world. Any takers?
pass
Against
thank u for the great debate. you have words of wisdom plz add me
People before us who previously believed in heaven based it on fables and stories thus were not facts. While science is built on facts which are proven hence science is not a myth
860.
An objective morality can be discovered
For
Okay, this is my first debate on this website, so bear with me. I wish to debate whether or not an objective morality can be discerned. Obviously, I will be outlining exactly how I believe this morality can be discerned, and my opponent will counter this (taking a nihilistic or…
Thank you Con for the debate. As the final round is for closing, I won't be rebutting what Con has said. Instead, I'll be restating why I think that my argument still stands. Con should do the same. My initial argument, as far as I can tell, still fully stands. I'll restate it…
Against
It is not the objective of the 'con' to prove the existence of anything. I do not think that the 'pro' has shown the possibility of an objective morality being discernible. 1. Firstly, my question should be asked again, maybe someone can answer it in the comments: Where do you…
"Circumcision and flaying are two entirely different things." This is wrong. As an infant, the foreskin is actually attached to the head of the penis. Ergo, the surgical peeling of the foreskin back is literally flaying. This next argument could also be made for lions, but I…
861.
Belief without evidence is delusion
For
Thank you for accepting Red_Fox. I will address your questions with arguments: Belief is a subset of thinking; knowing is a subset of thinking. Thinking is generalized thought, Where belief and knowledge are specific forms of thought. When evidence corresponds qualitatively and…
Belief is a delusion. I will stipulate two words as the basis for my argument: 'Belief' is to think something is true without evidence that corresponds with the actual allegation. To 'know' is to think something is true when evidence corresponds with the actual allegation. When…
Against
Got it
You named your debate: "Belief is Delusion. " In Round 1 you alleged: "Belief is a delusion, " but only defined one of the two nouns. In Round 2 you alleged that delusion and belief have "all the same properties relevant to this argument. " To be honest, There is no argument so…
862.
The ends justify the means in trolley-style dilemmas
For
reiterate
i would argue doing nothing is a choice. you did not actively participate in causing a wrong, but then again you did not actively participate in preventing one. propotionalism can be taken too far, or abused. i do not pretend to offer easy answers. even with the idea that we…
Against
The trolley problem (or as its often called "the train problem") was developed by British philosopher Philippa Foot in 1967. I was originally theorized as an exorcise to UTILITARIANISM, a popular philosophy developed by Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill. Utilitarianism holds…
863.
Belief can change people's lives
For
OK. So I guess we're talking about the science of beliefs. Answering those questions Why do people believe in God? Why do people do certain behaviors? Oh please. Do some research folks. Since this isn't a real debate, please, don't vote. This concludes this non legitimate debate.
Ha ha. This is more like a conversation than a debate. If you said what I said, pretty subtle there. But we'll take Muslims for example to add on to my idea. They want peace and will only declare war for self defense. But Osama bin Laden committed terrorism due to the fact that…
Against
Again you agree with me that beliefs govern our behaviors. Bin Laden belief was not only peace but also the right to defend his country and his religion. according to his beliefs, the military bases on Saudi Arabia represent threat to their peace. So, his beliefs resulted in…
so, your words say that you agree with me . I said that believes govern our lives.. I didn't only mention good effects of beliefs on our behaviors but also I mentioned bad effects saying "enhances or suppresses behaviors" . My illustrative example was about losing a dear person…
864.
Logic is a subset of illogic
For
RebuttalsThe absolute nature of LawI ask both you and the floor to consider this example, let us take a man who has committed a foul act of indecency but there was no law deeming his act illicit, however after the situation had occurred they legislated a new law making the act…
What is Logic?As mentioned above logic is defined as reasoning conducted or assessed according to strict principles of validity. Which simply states that you think coherently with what is provided to be true.This by extension infers that if someone is very logical it means…
Against
Thank you for this highly Intriguing debate. Upon further reflection and research, I came to the conclusion that when logic is considered "Reasoning conducted or assessed according to strict principles of validity", this does not refer to principles which are true, but…
Is Logic Absolute? You argue in your point that the changes in validity proves that logic has also changed, but this is untrue. Your definition of validity is the quality of being logically or factually sound; we can ignore the first as the denotative meaning of logic covers…
865.
The human person is best understood as a jigsaw puzzle or mosaic
For
At this aforementioned dark juncture, the response to irrational self-appearance related thought was to introduce the mosaic to the fold. It was through this that the more likely analogy of jigsaws emerged. The jigsaw: a complex collection of small pieces; some jagged, some…
Against
My opponent has forfeited this round. I ask the voters to consider this when voting.
http://writingprivacy.com... I ask the voters to consider this when voting.
866.
Determinism makes moral responsibility impossible
For
Firstly, I would ask that we consider that the distinction between our mental state and the physical state of our brain is existent only in semantics and debates regarding Cartesian (mind-body) dualism. That I reject Descartes' view of the mind/body separation is apparently…
With regards to his first comments, everything he says on contradiction is true. Hence, I would like to amend my presentation slightly: S1. All actions that are not free are not subject to moral responsibility . S2. All human actions are not free. S3. All human actions are not…
Against
Pro has agreed in this final round that my "argument for soft determinism does work to support moral responsibility." He just doesn't accept soft deteminism because he believes that mental states are the same thing as physical states in the brain. He said that if I could show…
Recall that in my opening, I explained that whether our actions are, in fact, determined, and whether we are, in fact, morally responsible for our actions is irrelevant to this debate. The debate comes down to whether there is any contradiction between the proposition that we…
867.
The world as we know it does not exist
For
I will let my opponent go first.
Against
Extend arguments further.
Carry contention to next round.
868.
Freedom of expression includes the freedom to offend
For
Sure. We can end this debate as it is now with no winner or loser so we can start again.
Thank you very much for accepting. The issue at hand is diverse and there is no fixed way to begin, but I shall begin with one of three areas that I reckon is always important for society. During the past 60 years, many equality movements have gained much ground with much…
Against
tiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiieeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
Great, I'll challenge you witht the topic when my schedule's a little more flexible. I have a tournament on the 11th and 12th so I'll be prepping for that pretty hard.
869.
Physical experience is the only true form of knowledge
For
lies dont create matter.. neither does you statement that a chair is ugly change a chair lies are false, false is imaginary
so you cant lie?
Against
For something to exist doesn't mean it has to have matter. If so, then no Christian would be defending god, since they see him not as something with matter. Also, nothing creates matter since it can't be made or destroyed by newton laws, therefore what you said has been…
I can lie, but that doesn't mean it doesn't exists. This is sort of like me saying "This chair is ugly", even though I don't actually think it is, and someone saying that my comment never existed because I lied. If imagination didn't exist, anyone viewing this wouldn't be able…
870.
Moral absolutism fails to explain moral judgments
For
The issue at hand is whether or not moral absolutism is a viable analysis of moral judgments. Moral absolutism is the view that morality is a factual entity that has a truth value. For example, if I were to claim that "Eating chocolate ice cream is morally reprehensible," I…
Tarzan: Second, Pro's burden of proof is not merely to show the position of moral absolutism to be in error - he must also disconnect the position from moral judgment. Else it would be possible to have the following conversation: A: Eating ice cream is always morally…
Against
My opponent asserts that my argument is off point, when in fact, it is absolutely (no pun intended) on topic. He simply chooses not to address my argumentation because he finds it inconvenient for his interpretation of the resolution. ************************* Some Responses:…
First, a definition so our debate doesn't run rampant with relativistic definitions... Moral Absolutism: "Moral absolutism is the meta-ethical view that certain actions are absolutely right or wrong, devoid of the context of the act." (http://en.wikipedia.org...) Absolutism:…
871.
Morality is relative
For
It is commonly argued by theists (and other like minded groups) that morality is an absolute; that there are natural laws that exist unconditionally. These are usually your run of the mill rules and laws: Don't Kill, Don't Murder, Don't Steal... And as where these are common,…
Against
Con finds it absolutely immoral when Pro starts a debate on morality and forfeits.
Con finds it absolutely immoral when Pro starts a debate on morality and forfeits.
872.
Skepticism is a flawed way to form beliefs
For
one of the claims of skepticism is that our senses are unreliable to the point where we cannot be guaranteed the truth, however this is a complete contradiction. It is only applied to people who claim to see ghosts, aliens, etc. But when it comes to a human being or a…
I argue that skeptical claims that "nothing is certain " and that we should go by would most likely happens is impractical and unscientific.
Against
Definitions: Skeptical: Having or expressing doubt about something (such as a claim or statement) http://www.merriam-webster.com... I will argue that skepticism is necessary for the scientific method. Pro has burden of proof to show that being skeptical and believing in the…
I'd like to see sources for these claims that Pro is bringing up. "That which can be asserted without evidence, can be dismissed without evidence." -Christopher HitchensPeople who read my debates probably notice that I use that quote a lot. I use the quote a lot because a…
873.
Reality is a simulation
For
Assumption 1. It's possible to simulate consciousnessWhile it is not possible today, This assumption merely means that it is technologically possible. Modern AI can compose classical piano, Recognize faces, Diagnose medical disorders, Beat human professionals at complex games…
Hello Debate0ts, Welcome to the debate! Firstly, I am having difficulty understanding what you're saying. We can't have a proper argument if we can't understand each other! I'm guessing there's a language barrier. Please use the spelling/grammar checker, And try to format your…
Against
Might some day ur thinking come true. Theoretically it is, Still not possible to generate artificial consciousness. As scientifically the consciousness is it self a amount of sub consciousness and unconsciousness ( eg: dreaming ) But today we r still in search the reason for…
A great apology for my previous post U r right that, I get the wrong idea on ur topic And also u bit anaylize that there is small language gap between us. But I try my best to convey my thoughts. As per from ur 5 statements. My counter as follows, It is disfficult to stimulate…
874.
Reality is a computer simulation
For
Thank you for accepting my topic and I apologize for my delayed response. I appreciate your additions and I believe that they will add to the debate. I would like to first start by saying to the reader that to live in a computer simulation is not an outlandish claim. If time is…
This debate is over whether or not the world we live in is a computer simulation. As there are many ways to approach this I will set that this "simulation" would be one that each individual person was a part of and in control of their own decisions. The creators of the…
Against
Obviously my opponent is too scared to post an argument for round three - I think he may have taken up my challenge to build two supercomputers that can power the universe. I wish him all the best, but urge you to vote CON until he succeeds. Which, by the way, I've already…
My opponent has done well to provide a reason why such a virtual reality might exist in theory. He says, however, that it is possible for all of reality, as we know it, to not only be stored and computed in a system but also updated at the speed of light. Any person with a…
875.
Euthyphro's dilemma is a false dilemma
For
My opponent may not think his arguments are irrelevant, but anyone with a clue of what Euthyphro's dilemma is about will know just how wrong he is. He takes a few phrases out of my arguments and "refutes" them out of context. I said that even if morality is arbitrary by God's…
Was it deliberate or a mistake o. O? Basically, my opponent centers his entire argument by dissecting one of my sentences, then attacking each of these two parts individually. I'll explain: =====Counterarguments===== 1. Some argument about the amount of Christians OF COURSE the…
Against
ON WITH THE GOOD STUFF. "Well if you read the definitions, then God is OMNISCIENCT. He knows EVERYTHING." Prove it. This is basically what's causing the problems. I would have challenged you the first time, but there was not enough room:) "Apparently, my opponent has no clue…
My arguements are not irrelevant. You stated this exactly: I argue that it doesn't matter if God commands what is moral, or whatever is moral is "arbitrary". Because God is omnibenevolent, then his moral commands are "good". I will leave it as this for now, and await my…
876.
The paradox of the stone should be rejected
For
Gracias por aceptar! Espero que lo disfrutemos! ¿Puede Dios crear una piedra tan pesada, que él ni la puede levantar? 1. La omnipotencia no incluye el poder de desafiar a la lógica Supongamos que Dios pueda hacer cualquiera cosa, excepto desafiar a la lógica. La respuesta es…
La Paradoja De La Piedra hace la siguiente pregunta:"¿Puede Dios crear una piedra tan pesada que él ni la puede levantar?"Esa pregunta se hace muchas veces para tratar de demostrar que Dios no existe.La primera ronda es de aceptación.
Against
Mi oponnet se equivoca aqu" cuando afirma que el poder de omniportance no puede desafiar la l"gica. Como he buscado la definici"n de omniportance y afirm" que es el poder de tener ultamate y poder ulimated y siendo Dios como. (http://www.thefreedictionary.com...) Por ejemplo…
Por la presente acepto este debate y estoy mirando adelante a un gran debate. ¡Que gane el mejor. Sólo una nota al margen que podría cometer algunos errores españoles.
877.
The principle that something cannot come from nothing is well supported
For
To be honest my opponent won this.
Same to you.
Against
My opponent in his last round said "same to you". That doesn't address my objections sufficiently.
"t is okay but what I am saying is that no matter what you will keep thinking nothing is something..."How so? If nothing exists, then I think nothing exists. Not something. "...when in reality it's all an illusion because nothing and everything are just states of being."If…
878.
It is impossible to regress mentally
For
For the sake of keeping the debate a reasonable length, I'm only going to address two of con's arguments. If you would like me to address the third, I would gladly do so in the next round! I'd like to start by addressing con's first argument: When one loses memory through any…
I would like to let my opponent go first, good luck to whoever accepts.
Against
My opponent has forfeited. Please extend all my previous arguments. :3
Now before I get into the Pro constructive, I would like to point out that my opponent had no viable reason for not attacking my third point. If he so desires he may attack it in his next speech, but if he doesn't you must count it as a drop and the Con will win. Now onto my…
879.
Irrationality does not prevent something from being true
For
you say "Bishop Berkeleys allegations are disputed and several modern mathematicians consider the formulation of Leibniz to be free of contradiction[1], but that really doesn't matter Even if a mathematical theory seems to produce true results, it obeys aristotelian logic. "…
you say ", ...I will make some quite informal statements to begin with then let Pro choose which level he wishes to debate on, The examples given in the opening argument and in the text linked to are very vague and some of them seem to be based on misconceptions. Quantum…
Against
"yes it does but the early formulation of calculus violates the law of non-contradiction "Newton"s formulation of calculus was self-contradictory yet it worked."I have shown you why it actuay doesn't, which is the widely accepted reason for demanding noncontradiction. While the…
"For 100 years after its invention calculus was shown to be irrational ie contradictory but it still worked if working is a sign of being true then Irrationality is no hindrance for something being true"Bishop Berkeleys allegations are disputed and several modern mathematicians…
880.
Debating should end because it incites conflict
For
Oh yes, the human ability to learn is fascinating but I fail to see how this is relevant to this debate.If learning begins with a question, how does one learn to ask questions or even to word them correctly? A baby asks nothing of the world but the world teaches it anyway.…
I believe in peace. Debating is not peaceful; some win some lose. Do you want to be a loser? Do you want to be a winner? Every debate you are forced to open yourself up to the horrific possibility of not being the one you want. Please end it now!
Against
extended
Extended.
881.
Humans are the only species that must pay to live
For
No one should build a home for free. Correct! But, the fact that something that is required for living is a charge that we have to pay. Most people that are a part of the modern industrialized world need a house, electricity, water, and heat to live off of. All of those…
What I am saying is this is not an example of advanced beings. Advanced beings wouldn't leave their own out to dry. The fact that not a single movement in this country is done without exchanging hands is sick. We are the only beings charged with having to live. Two jobs and I'm…
Against
Yeah man! You feel like an idiot and you regret about starting this unclear debate (and not giving me the clarifications I asked for).. You say that you tried to play it off as if you knew what you were doing and talking about.. you admit all that but you still ARGUING!!! You…
Dear pro, you have not realized something really important: "Well if socialism is that man comes before money and not money before man, then yes, I am implying socialism. " Money is not a bad thing but something that make us powerful. And this is what all the beings try to…
882.
Biological and environmental determinism is compatible with free will
For
1. "One cannot choose anything, if there were no other choices." Choices are in the eye of the chooser. It is expressly conceded by the viewpoint of Bio-Environmental determinism that an individual has multiple choices for each action. (X may kill Y or X may not kill Y) What is…
Common sense establishes that "Will" (as in will jump or will ride) yields "Can." I simply argue that the inverse of the statement is true; that all happens that can happen and that what does not happen can not happen. Choice is the word that you use for many possible outcomes,…
Against
"Choice is the word that you use for many possible outcomes, and that which I use for a determined decision." I believe we have choices, because we have free will. If we did not have free will and determinism were true, then a determined decision implies that there are no…
I will begin by assessing that if determinism were true, then we could not have free will. As you can obviously see, I am a Libertarian Incompatibilist in regards to determinism and free will. Hence, if determinism is true, then free will is not true. They cannot coexist. Since…
883.
Humans do not have free will
For
If that is what Con has chosen to do, then so be it. I thank him for the debate.
RESPONSE What Con has done in his rebuttal is present a straw man. Con states that I have presented my evidence as "scientific proof", which I have not done and do not plan to do. Con was likely referring to the evidence I used to back up my arguments. Evidence and proof are…
Against
I appreciate Pro's understanding of my lack of desire to continue this debate. If course I would expect one who believes I had no say in the choice I made to be accepting of it. My decision was, according to Pro, inevitable.
It is not my intent to forfeit a round and hang this debate and prevent voting for my opponent. I defer to my opponent to proceed to the next round. I have made the choice to cease the debate of my own free will.
884.
Playing devil's advocate is healthy
For
Ladies and gentlemen, I think at least like 95% of you know what to do. If you don't, let me walk you through it. Conduct: I started this debate to have some form of an intelligent discussion because I disagreed with a user. This, of course, is what debat.org is for. As some of…
Oh man that hurt. Right off the bat I got insulted over a picture that's not even me. I'm not sure but I feel like that necessitates a loss of conduct points.Anyway, moving on to the actual debate, I just have a few points that prove playing devil's advocate is healthy.1)…
Against
That whorish picture should have been loss of conduct points without anybody saying a word. The new picture is not much better than the old one. If you die today, are you sure your sins are fogiven and you are going to heaven, or do you think it does not matter and you can do…
That whorish picture should have been loss of conduct points without anybody saying a word. The new picture is not much better than the old one. If you die today, are you sure your sins are fogiven and you are going to heaven, or do you think it does not matter and you can do…
885.
The Kalam cosmological argument is sound
For
Premise One: Extend all of the arguments I made here. He continuously misses the point about the argument. In this premise, I only defend the idea that IF things did begin then they would have a cause. The second premise is where I show that things do begin, namely, the…
Premise 1Conditional: If X begins to exist such that it had a first moment of its existence, then it has a cause. Remember that a conditional can be true and its antecedent (X began to exist) false. In this premise I need only prove that IF things did begin in this way then a…
Against
That being said, the conclusion of the soundness of the KCA still remains controversial and the Pro has yet to have dealt with my objections adequately. From the largely irrelevant objections to claims I've never made (regarding things coming out of nothing which interestingly…
Premise 1My opponent claims my contention with regards to "beginnings" of the existence of things is largely irrelevant as it does not rebut his definition of the phrase "beginning to exist". This however assumes the transformative process does in fact show this, and that…
886.
The soul does not exist
For
I am on the side of disbelief in a soul. In this debate I would prefer only philosophical or if at all possible scientific arguments no emotional arguments. I would also like to establish the soul as an actual being as it is described in many ancient texts that may or may noy…
This debate is useless so my opponent can have a free win. :)
Against
By the reading of the resolution this clearly is a "fact" debate.I look forward to this topic and am very intrigued where Pro will take this.A couple of things worth mentioning:BOP is on Pro.Definition of soul, "The spiritual or immaterial part of a human being or animal,…
I'm glad my opponent agrees. The reason I took Con on this debate is to show such a resolution is impossible to detemine.Pro has failed to determine the resolution is true, and he conceded my BOP analysis in Round 3.I have shown, as Con, that this resolution in it's definitive…
887.
Love is a belief, not a human emotion
For
aliens are true?
unknown=false reality is unbelieved, imagination is unknown
Against
Pro hasn't offered any other arguments, so I cannot refute. "aliens are true?" There is little hard evidence to support, nor deny the existence of Extra Terrestrials.
I will Refute what Pro has to say. "unknown=false" That is Incorrect. Unknown(1) is separate from False.(2) "reality is unbelieved, imagination is unknown" Pro makes Non-Sensical statements, I would ask he refrain from using Marijuana while at the Keyboard.…
888.
Objective reality must exist
For
Objective has more than one definition. When used as an adjective, objective describes something that is true regardless of personal opinion. Objective reality would denote a reality that exists regardless of whether one believes in it or not. Thanks for debating!
This is my first, so I apologize if I don't follow the etiquette very well. The argument for objective reality - that is, external truths - is simple. It can be shown through asking simple questions which I will demonstrate. The first question would be, is there an objective…
Against
I don't understand objective reality yet as I just came across it. Can you give more examples? Let's say, I want a German shepherd in the future it's a dream, my objective. Perhaps, getting through college is another example of an objective reality? I say the only way it's real…
I'm practicing arguments and I don't know what you mean. I'm giving this a shot! :) I think our personal beliefs on some topic may not exist. For example, in religion some people believe God is real and atheists don't. Both try to push views on others, yet none prevail, maybe…
889.
Moral naturalism is more compelling than moral relativism
For
Now I would like to note to my opponent moral naturalism is (Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy):"the label is more usually reserved for naturalistic forms of moral realism according to which there are objective moral facts and properties and these moral facts and properties…
Resolution: Moral Naturalism is more compelling than Moral Relativism rules: No Semantics Arguments No Ad hom No intentional fallacies 5 rounds BOP is shared.
Against
When I read in the Standford Encyclopedia of Philosophy (SEP) that moral naturalism is "usually reserved for naturalistic forms of moral realism," I assumed that's the way my opponent was using the phrase. If so it would mean he is a naturalist who thinks morals are part of the…
Until today, I was unfamiliar with the term "moral naturalism," so I had too google it. I am neither a moral naturalist nor a moral relativist. However, I do think moral relativism has more going for it than moral naturalism, so I think I can participate in this debate without…
890.
Absolute universal love is impractical
For
Look, I apologize. My mother just died of a heart attack. I'm not trying to get out of anything, but if we could resume this debate a few of weeks from now, I would deeply appreciate it. Otherwise, I'll forfeit. I really don't F-ing care at this point. Sorry if you felt like…
First and foremost, I reject the claim that I must "prove" anything, on account of the fact that the nature of this matter is not one in which mathematics can properly illustrate. However, I believe that I can still argue against the practicality of universal love with a…
Against
Go ahead.
--- Pro is making an argument out of sentiment: suppose one of Pro's scenarios occurs, and a stranger saves someone over their mother as a result of a coin flip. Pro's claim that this is wrong assumes non-universal love. If Pro did love universally, he would see that, in such a…
891.
Humans are fundamentally driven by self-interest
For
My opponent made a bold claim in his argument that he failed to back up at all with concrete evidence. Altruism is a self-destructing behavior that is not at all evolutionarily sensible. In any species with altruistic members and selfish members, The members who prioritized…
obviously humans are driven by self interest almost everything we do is to benefit ourselves.
Against
My opponent has made some valid points regarding my consideration of altruism in my first argument. Yet, My opponent's claim that self-interested individuals will take advantage of altruistic individuals is false. In the context of evolution, There is no doubt that individual…
The resolution of this debate hinges on the very nature of human action. We are driven by the stimuli around us to act in certain ways, But not necessarily to benefit ourselves. Altruism is present in practically everything we do. It is our intuitive nature to consider the…
892.
Free will is an illusion
For
First, my opponent argues that we are able to control all aspects of the "self". However, this is empirically denied. I cannot claim to control my sense of hunger, since hunger is determined by the amount of food in my stomach and not any semblance of "free will". Similarly, we…
For clarity, I will be defending my arguments in the same order that my opponent discusses them. First, regarding the argument about the subconscious, it is important to note that my opponent neglects to respond to the substance of the argument; rather he argues that the…
Against
To first reiterate, we are controlling all aspects of the self, just not consciously. ANything inside you is the self. You may not be realize it but you are telling yourself "be hungry, breathe, pump blood", via the natural systems in your brain for the good of the body. Its…
I will defend myself in chronological order of the defences given by pro The important fact of the subconscious that you, as I will refer directly to Los_Altos_JW, seem to ignore one I came outright with saying that the subconscious is apart of our self. You claim that we have…
893.
Life is ultimately a pursuit of vanity
For
I think my opponent reasoning is valid yet without doubt the times are such the life is one big game of vanity. Its rat race to steal ideas. People copy bend to make their own mense. I certain feel cheated and kicked in the teeth by society as mal-educted idiots came to speak…
IF you said Eminem was you friend i would think you being vain and saying to have a smile on your. In saying such a thing you saying I have a friend in someone who you are not, this make me more of a person, important and its attempt to make the friendship shared with people…
Against
So because vain people happen to get far proves that life as a whole is a big game of vanity? Well. OBVIOUSLY those who succeed are in some way vain because that is what drove them to GET THERE and eventually have "excessive pride in or admiration of one's own appearance or…
The only coherent argument was that of the MEinem. Eminem is skilled but to be friends with him does not match the definition of vanity being "excessive pride in or admiration of one's own appearance or achievements." Also you failed to refute any other points. You did not at…
894.
The argument from desire is a sound philosophical argument
For
I wih to thank Con, again, for taking the time to debate this with me.I would just like to add that I had put the desire in question into words in my opening argument, though it's possible I wasn't clear enough. From the opening argument, I stated, "The desires of this erth are…
I wish to thank mrsatan for his thought-provoking response.Premise 1: Every natural, innate desire in us corresponds to some real object that can satisfy that desire.Argument 1: The fact that the objects that exist to fulfill these desire exist only on Earth is actually…
Against
I apologize if my statement about the desires vagueness came off offensively. That was not my intention. More accurately, I simply found Pros later description to be much more clear than Peter Kreefts description. Also, I do not need to show any of the premises as untrue.…
I am, however, content to drop this point, as it was meant to be more of an observation than an actual argument. Also, as he has now put the desire in question into words, I have a better understanding of the Argument for Desire, and can now properly refute it. As stated: "Our…
895.
Atheism is the same as agnosticism
For
Is this even possible? Agnosticism is the view that the truth values of certain claims—especially claims about the existence or non-existence of any deity,—are unknown or unknowable for epistemological reason Atheism is, in a broad sense, the rejection of belief in the…
The dictator! Cons suggestion of a type of systematic organization about how we should go about understanding agnostics and atheism is something to be considered. If it is not suggestion, it is an attempt to dictate something into truth. However the fact of the matter is that…
Against
I accept. Since I'm Con, I will be arguing that atheism and agnosticism are not the same thing.I really don't know how you're going to manage this one, TheFool, because you just defined both terms and they are clearly not the same thing.
I have little motivation to type this, because whether TheFool is aware of it or not, she is ultimately debating herself. She defined two words with two different meanings, and has since been trying to convince the audience those two different meanings are really the same when…
896.
Omniscience and omnipotence rule out free will
For
not going to use 8,000 characters. everything will be taken in clear black and white. commonsense must be needed, thanks. use your brain! ;) If God is all-knowing then He would have already known if you were going to Heaven or Hell before He made you in the first place. He knew…
Against
My apponent has forfeited again. It wasn't much of a debate, I guess. It would be nice if you'd vote anyway, though, so I don't have another debate end up in the "tied" section. Thank you for your time.
Oh no! My opponent has forfeited!
897.
A priori knowledge exists independently of experience
For
:(
Unfortunately, Con has forfeit. Extend my arguments.
Against
:/
80
898.
Reason alone can provide absolute truths
For
I can prove it because people used certain maxims of logic to be used by me before I came along through the use of reason. And these certain maxims corresponded with our method of thinking i.e. our method of utilizing reason. Since that correspondence exists, one can say for…
Reason exists in all people. Reason can be used by all people. Reason came about through evolution, therefore, some are more reasonable than others. Among people with equal ability of reasoning, different conclusions can be drawn. Those who have equal ability of reasoning but…
Against
You said that you can prove 'your opinion' on these assumptions. (1) People used certain maxims of logic - How can this premise derive 'your opinion'? If people used the car, Could car provides absolute truth? (2) These certain maxims corresponded with our method of thinking…
How can you prove your opinion(reason provides us with absolute truth) 'by reason'? If your opinion is true, that must be proved by reason.
899.
All human actions are ultimately determined
For
Determined? Yes. Predetermined? No
You can't choose what you don't want, and want always precedes choice in the chain of causality.
Against
This implies falsely that man operates on pure instinct from which he cannot vary, placing him on the level of animals.
900.
The arts are not relevant to society
For
I apologize that this is so late, things kept coming up. Because my opponent's definition of the arts is a little ambiguous, allow me to provide the dictionary definition. The arts are "the quality, production, expression, or realm, according to aesthetic principles, of what is…
In this round I will defend my logical syllogism that I proposed in round one as well as offer a rebuttal to the arguments made by my opponent. I accept the definition of society as provided by my opponent (an organized group of persons associated together for…
Against
Thank you very much PossieTV for your very interesting and unexpected speech, (unexpected in the way that you went a direction that I did not anticipate) and I look forward to your next and final argument. Before I begin my constructive speech I would like to rebut some of the…
The arts are defined as music, art or drama. There are many different campaigns all around schools that we see on a daily basis. About two weeks ago there was a campaign called we are silent. The purpose was to raise awareness for people in countries whose voices are not…

How to use these debate topics

Vote, discuss, revote. Poll the room on the motion, give 5 minutes of discussion, then vote again and look at who changed their mind.
Four corners. Label corners strongly agree → strongly disagree; people move, then each corner makes its best case.
Switch sides. Halfway through, everyone argues the side they disagree with. It sharpens listening.

Run them live

Want every person to answer on their own phone, with a timer and a live leaderboard? Use these questions in an EngageSlide Vote · Discuss · Revote — free to start.

Tick questions on any page — your set is kept while you browse (or take the first 10 here) — and they become ready-to-play slides. What is EngageSlide?

Philosophy Debate Topics for Students — page 18

How to use these debate topics

Run them live

More question collections