Discussly

Politics Debate Topics for Students — page 42

2,667 debate topics, students. Debatable motions with arguments for and against. Open the arguments below, pick one at random, or present them full-screen.

StudentsDebatePage 42 of 54
  1. 2051.

    Barack Obama was a bad president

    For

    • Sustained.
    • Framework and argument sustained.

    Against

    • Do I believe Barack Obama is by any means a good president? No. However, I do not believe, like many Americans, that he is a bad president. Does anyone agree or disagree with me?
  2. 2052.

    Republicans manage the economy better than Democrats

    For

    • In this round I will counter my opponents main arguments and conclude my argument. My opponent and the rest of the democrats seem to be failing the American people in terms of economics. Their new healthcare law, "Obamacare", is supposedly intended to make it easier for…
    • I would like to start this round by stating my opponent's previous argument is completely flawed. My opponent blamed President Ronald Reagan for bad economics by telling only half of the story and using oversimplified facts to support his argument. I would like to set the…

    Against

    • I accept.
    • I will now rebuild my case. "I would like to set the record straight by stating that the Ronald Reagan administration inherited the worst American economy in the 20th Century since the Great Depression from the Carter administration." This is quite an ironic argument as Jimmy…
  3. 2053.

    The Obama presidency was not beneficial to the United States

    For

    • I will at this time address my opponent's points. My Opponent: "My opponent has made a claim saying that the national debt is Obamas fault. First of all some of this increase is artificial. The Bush administration had used "accounting gimmicks" to make the debt appear less then…
    • I will be unable to post a full response this round. I will post my attacks and my conclusion in the next round. I yield back to my opponent.

    Against

    • This debate has essentially lasted 2 rounds. 2 rounds, to debate an entire administration and everything in it. 2 wars, the stimulus, the bailout, foreign policy, pollution, racism, and everything else that come with a President in 6,000 words or less. My opponent did not…
    • I agree with opponent definitions, but reserve the right to present new ones should the opportunity arrive. My opponents arguments: a) Since Obama took office on January 20, 2009 the national debt has increased $954,324,742,369. That is almost one trillion dollars added to our…
  4. 2054.

    Barack Obama was a bad president

    For

    • Okay... I don't know what to do now. Do i keep arguing? Obama is bad... go republicans.
    • Ill start with Obama's father. "You called Obama's father a communist!" I mentioned this because we learn from our parents. Obama's parents have every bit of reason to be mentioned in this argument. You cant argue that we all learn and most likely follow our parents beliefs and…

    Against

    • Sorry I didn't reply sooner. I WAS DOING A HUGE AMOUNT OF HOMEWORK THE PAST DAYS SO I DID NOT HAVE TIME TO DEBATE HERE. HOMEWORK WAS MORE IMPORTANT. President Obama is good... go democrats.
    • True about the troops, but aren't the troops leaving by next December? Yes. He did it. They are not lies. Believe me, Bush has made many mistakes too. Obama's father was not communist. Do not say stuff that is not true. That is not what a debate is about. "Gays are sinners I…
  5. 2055.

    Gun control will do nothing to stop mass shootings

    For

    • First off, I apologize that it has taken me so long to respond. Its finals week. I also thank Con for their views. Since you expressed concern over the factuality of my source, "americangunfacts.com," I will refrain from using it any further. I had understood "arms" to mean…
    • I too am excited for a challenging yet healthy debate. I also am mostly conservative, yet I am in no way a gun-toting/loving redneck. I just tell it like I see it. We have no way of knowing what the Founding Fathers would have said about this issue in the present day, and it…

    Against

    • First, the issue with "arms" in the Constitution. There is no verifiable way to confirm exactly what was meant, but there are two logical thought processes. One is that the Founders literally meant what they had available, which were inaccurate, unreliable muskets made before…
    • First, the constitution. It was already quoted, but I'll state it again, this time as the version ratified by the states and authenticated by Thomas Jefferson. It is the same text, only with slight changes in capitalization and punctuation to make it flow. "A well regulated…
  6. 2056.

    Politicians should send their own families to fight wars

    For

    • Name them
    • Republicans & democrats should send their kids and family members to war overseas

    Against

    • Please extend my arguments, thanks!
    • I assume my opponent meant Republicans and Democrats in Congress, so my arguments will be made based off that assumption. Nevertheless, I stand in firm negation for the following three reasons. 1. Many congressmen are veterans. 2. This proposal is unfair to the children of the…
  7. 2057.

    Another India-Pakistan war will end in ceasefire or stalemate

    For

    • .. .
    • I still stand by my previous arguments

    Against

    • Ok I disagree, as well clearly noted both have nukes so thats negates their use in the war. The population of india is 1,170,938,000 The population of pakistan 173,593,380 India would be the winner by clear numbers, all they would have to do is draft 250,000,000 people into…
  8. 2058.

    Barack Obama is mainly responsible for the US national debt

    For

    • First of all, Obama has failed to convince Congress to enact some of his proposed policies — such as higher taxes on the wealthy — that likely would have reduced the deficit and thus kept the debt growing more slowly. But more to the point, a major factor in the debt explosion…
    • Congress cannot do things without the president's permission. The president can veto the Congress' decision. In some rare cases, Congress can over rule the president, but that has never happened since George W. Bush was president. Obama has never gotten overrode in the 4 years…

    Against

    • Congress can and does things without the presidents approval. It is there power to borrow money, and pay the debt. Congress does not need the presidents approval to use powers granted to them in the constitution. So as i have proven the debt is the fault of congress not the…
    • my opponent agrees that it is congresses decision to approve the presidents military actions. So if it was costly it is congresses responsibility to stop it. We did not have to borrow to fund the war in afghanistan. The United States could have paid for it but congress decided…
  9. 2059.

    Cuba should be removed from the US state sponsors of terrorism list

    For

    • DEFINITIONS: (1): Con agrees that Russia should be on the list under his framework. True, this debate is centered around Cuba and not Russia, but this is a point that should be evaluated at the end of the round if con attempts to use his FW as justification for Cuba being on…
    • DEFINITIONS: Sponsor/International Terrorism - the con has given the definition, he must stick by it until the end of this debate, that means no changes. ONE - The definition of the Con's "international terrorism"/ sponsor is flawed. On the ground that we use this definition,…

    Against

    • FRAMEWORK 1. Pro agrees that this debate is about Cuba. So, as I said earlier, "it's not my job to argue that the list is comprehensive and perfect; my only job is to assert that Cuba should be on it, regardless of what other state might or might not be included. " Therefore,…
    • I will address the framework, then I will defend my own case, and conclude by addressing Pro's case. DEFINITIONS Pro makes two points here: (1) that Russia should be included under my interpretation of the resolution. This is true--but at the same time Russia DOES sponsor…
  10. 2060.

    Illegal immigration is bad for Americans

    For

    • I am also glad that we both clearly understand the definition of Illegal Immigration. My opponent argues that illegal immigrants cannot attain any high-ranking work, thus making them occupants of low-ranking jobs. The majority of americans do not have jobs considered…
    • Illegal immigration is not only ILLEGAL in it's definition, but is also extremely regressive for Americans in terms of it's effect on both the economy and government benefits systems otherwise known collectively as welfare. In 2015, there was an estimated 11 million illegal…

    Against

    • I'll begin by refuting points made by my opponent by drawing statistics directly from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. My opponent argues that illegal immigrants occupy jobs american citizens have, and that they don't pay their "fair share" in taxes. I would also like to state…
    • As my opponent didn't outline the term of illegal immigration I will do so now Illegal : contrary to or forbidden by law, especially criminal law. Immigration : the action of coming to live permanently in a foreign country. I would like to note that my opponent did not outline…
  11. 2061.

    The Iraq War was justified in the name of freedom

    For

    • I agree that education is not an act of war. But how do you educate a radical people who throw away lives for their ideals. These radical islamic terrorists care nothing for life outside their ideals. You cant stop suicide bombings and plane crashes by sitting and talking to…
    • Your before statement was a total contradiction. In the middle ages one of the tacticts of war was to cut off a castle from recieving food or money. This was a blockade. To quit buying oil and slowing a nations income for a political purpose is an ACT of war. Doing this would…

    Against

    • What you are proposing is a temporary solution to the problem of Terrorism. I agree we might be able to chase the Terrorists out of Iraq but we will never be able to completely change their ideals with the use of war. The only way to completely solve this problem is through…
    • Since when has a boycott become an act of war, it is our choice as a country not to buy oil from Iraq. We are not blockading them from receiving imports as stated in your example; we are choosing not to buy their exports. I have no idea what you are talking about. You may…
  12. 2062.

    Ordinary Americans should be allowed to buy and keep guns

    For

    • yeah, it was a really bad solution now that i look back.but there is nothing a policeman can do if hes not there in time. i mean you could have navy seals as cops but if they can't get their quick enough then what happens. especially really open places were there are allot of…
    • ok, well the amendments is their so that if your country were to turn on you that you would have defense against it and look at other countries who have had their guns removed all have ended up hurting their own citizens and what happens when someone breaks into your house you…

    Against

    • I appreciate the point raised by you about individual safety, but I disagree with the solution you gave. For safety reasons, the law should be made strict or the policemen should be trained to be made more responsible and prepared or in any other way the law and order…
    • no, what for? already the american security system is so strong why do the normal americans be allowed for keeping guns? Just to increase more crimes? And if they are so capable of taking care of themselves then for what is the judiciary working?
  13. 2063.

    Hillary Clinton is an honest politician

    For

    • First, unless you can read people's minds you can't prove she was lying. The best you can do is prove she was telling a falsehood. Then, it comes down to probability if she was knew she was telling a falsehood or not. Let's look a the claims one at a time."1. According to James…
    • What is this alleged proof you speak of? Innocent until proven guilty.

    Against

    • your last point just proved I am right "the best you can do is prove she was telling a falsehood." Falsehood = Lie (1) source (1) http://www.merriam-webster.com... Thanks for letting me debate you.
    • yes innocent until proven guilty, but innocent doesn't mean you are not or have not lied. there's a lot of instance where she lied, I'll try to keep it short. Here's a list of 4 I can remember on top of my head Claims by Hillary Clinton 1. "I did not email any classified…
  14. 2064.

    The war on terror should be fought domestically

    For

    • [I reserve the right to clarify and substantiate my remarks in rounds 2 through 5: graynet2013, the following are suppositions, premises, and challenges to any opponent] Our troops are fighting a war abroad against a virulent group of fanatics that have been bent on terror for…

    Against

    • M'kay...
    • Too bad I won't officially win this debate because no one seems to vote anymore...
  15. 2065.

    North Korea is not truly a communist state

    For

    • All points extended.
    • Contention 1: StatelessThe Communist society must be that of a stateless one. There is no government in a communist society. (http://en.wikipedia.org...) It's funny that my opponent bring up North Korea being communist, because if you look at Con's source it reads that the…

    Against

    • I acceptArgument:North Korea is a communist state, because the government is a puppet, it's so corrupt, it doesn't function and so technically North Korea is stateless. Now for classes, technically the rich 10 people are too small to be a class, so it isn't divided by classes,…
  16. 2066.

    Barack Obama did not deserve the Nobel Peace Prize

    For

    • Thanks for the debate. My opponent is wrong. Grant and Eisenhower were not given presidency because they won wars. They won because people voted for them. They were not given presidency on any battlefield. So, with all due respect, no, I did not validate your comparison, which…
    • Thanks for the debate, again. First of all, I find it odd that my opponent accuses me with only showcasing personal opinions, when I have cited many sources. I did not present my case based on personal opinions, but with viable sources. Secondly, my opponent wishes to compare…

    Against

    • Thanks for another round PRO: "My opponent is wrong. Grant and Eisenhower were not given presidency because they won wars. They won because people voted for them. " I am not wrong, you just have an opinion, like many opinions you have stated here, that those two presidents were…
    • Thanks to my opponent for another round. My opponent states: PRO: "That would be an award for the merits of his actions; however, his presidency is merits of his credentials." This claim is very easy to counter. Grant and Eisenhower were both elected not on credentials, but…
  17. 2067.

    Immigrants have always been beneficial to America

    For

    • When I said America, I meant the country. Therefore, Native Americans are not eligible for an argument. When jobs are moved to Mexico. Well, those aren't exactly immigrants are they? Also, lower pay for jobs might not be beneficial, but at the time of Industrialization, we…
    • "The inhabitants of America from 1492-1900 had a rather constant and continuous campaign of genocide and murder waged against them at the hands of immigrants." -----------------You're not saying WHICH immigrants nor providing any specific facts or evidence "Your claim that…

    Against

    • If you meant the country you should have a said the country not America. You do realize that your argument basically is saying that Native Americans do not count as part of America. That sounds stupid, you know it. I was giving an example. But, how different is having a…
    • I'm sorry I didn't specifically say that the Native Americans were by and large murdered off by foreign disease and guns. The Native population of America were largely murdered by the non-native European immigrants. Therefore, you cannot say that immigrants have *always* been…
  18. 2068.

    The Democratic Party is better than the Republican Party

    For

    • In order to give each contention adequate discussion, I have split my case into two parts. I will use Round 2 to defend and extend the first part of my case, Round 3 to defend and extend the second part, and Round 4 to summarize and highlight important points and voting issues…
    • Definition: Better: the "better" party is that which, when in power, makes decisions that benefit the American people. GOP: the Republican Party. Framework: In order to win today's debate, it is the burden of the affirmative to prove that the Democratic Party is better than the…

    Against

    • I contend that the Democratic Party isn't better than the Republican Party because both parties are equally bad. The differences between them are largely differences in rhetoric, not reality. Both parties are filled with incompetence and corruption; both parties always favor…
    • C1: I've already addressed why Pro's statistics are meaningless in round 1 C1, and he has not disproven my claims. He also failed to address the evidence that the Fed is responsible for many of the changes in the economy, regardless of what the different parties do (round 3…
  19. 2069.

    Building a border wall is a good idea

    For

    • Thank you for the opportunity to respond to your concerns about the Trump wall. I will analyze your argument point-by-point. 1. Expenses and the American Economy Your first point was as follows: "First, let's assume that the US tried to pay for this wall." This is a valid point…
    • The Declaration of Independent declared the intent of the United States to assert their right to become an independent sovereign nation. A nation whose purpose was one to separate itself from the established subordinate relationship it had previously with the United Kingdom.…

    Against

    • Remember that the rebuttals this round are reserved for rebutting Round 2 arguments. Now, your first two paragraphs are simply history that establishes the idea of national sovereignty. However, this seems to be incredibly irrelevant for multiple reasons. It seems the only…
    • Keep in mind that I am referring to Donald Trump's plan specifically, not necessarily the idea of a border fence in general, though many of the points I will make still apply. 1. Expenses and the American Economy First, let's assume that the US tried to pay for this wall. It's…
  20. 2070.

    Whether an act is terrorism depends on one's point of view

    For

    • But then war is the exact sameas terrorism. This the negates the need for the word as it has a clear opinion behind it when people use it.
    • Clerly the word is not a noun then. Where did oyur definition come from? I am refering to the general useage of the word when it is often attributed with words such as murder.

    Against

    • =) I will go point by point on your arguments. "But then war is the exact sameas terrorism." >>Yes, they are both words, they are both nouns. They are not an opinion, they are a thing. How do you opinion the word war? "This the negates the need for the word as it has a clear…
    • Ummm.... The word is terrorism. The ism on the end signifies that it is a noun. Terrorism. Patriotism. Capitalism. Communism. Marxism. I pulled my definition from Dictionary.com (common knowledge) but just to humor me I also just went and got my Kingfisher dictionary which…
  21. 2071.

    Gun control laws are bad for society

    For

    • Well Mexico isn't exactly a first world country.You do not know for sure if revolt would happen over the seizure of firearms.Comcast was only 1 example of how corruption exist, showing most laws don't past the way we were taught, when really Corps throw ton of money and…
    • I want to make it clear that my argument isn't about banning all guns, it's about better control on who is able to obtain them. Mexico doesn't restrict all guns, individuals may still buy guns, and if the Mexican people truly wanted to overthrow their government through…

    Against

    • > "You do not know for sure if revolt would happen over the seizure of firearms." Then you don't know Americans well enough >"comcast was only 1 example of how corruption exist, showing most laws don't past the way we were taught, when really " The people in power aren't stupid…
    • however it's not like the civilians are dissatisfied where their government completely, and when they are they have overthrown past leaders without guns." Don't give me that, they are working with the drug lords and are extremely corrupt. Why do you think all of them want to…
  22. 2072.

    Legalizing marijuana would have a more favorable impact than current policy

    For

    • My premise is simple: The legalization of marijuana would have a more favorable impact on our country than the current policy. I present the following arguments: 1. Legalization allows for better regulation, improvement of quality, reduction in street prices, and would alienate…
    • New York decriminalized Details About this report Possession Incarceration Fine 25 g or less (first offense) civil citation none $100 25 g or less (second offense) civil citation none $200 25 g or less (3rd offense) misdemeanor 5 days and/or fine $250 25 g to 2 oz* misdemeanor…

    Against

    • I present the following rebuttals (Mangani's points in allcaps): "BETTER" (more) REGULATION -This is bad. Unregulated is working fine. We don't need regulation. It would be frivolous. "IMPROVEMENT" OF QUALITY -This is probably not true. When things become mass produced, they…
    • First I will analyze your argument. 1. How would lower street prices help? That means people will still go for the more dangerous version on the streets because it's cheaper dealers would not decrease they would increase. It's just like a bootleg DVD the quality may not be as…
  23. 2073.

    Donald Trump's immigration policies are good for America

    For

    • Well the trick is he plans on cutting trade with Mexico, which would put their country into an economic crisis, thus cause a diplomatic disputes between both the U.S. and Mexico, however the U.S. could care less about what any other country has to say, especially with Trump's…
    • Trump is handling it a bit bluntly to say the least. Let me be fair saying that I am not a Trump supporter. I just wanted Hillary to lose. P.S. I am a Kasich supporter Anyways, I think Trump's immigration policies is giving the biggest sense of security this country needs (even…

    Against

    • That's a good point but the cost should also be considered. The estimated cost is from 10bn to 15bn, and it honestly doesn't look like Mexico will pay or even help pat for it, which means American citizens would have to pay for it. Also, the wall will run though towns and…
    • So Donald Trump is president some, people support it some don't, But is the way Donald Trump is trying to "fix" Immigration a good way? Honestly I don't think so because first of all, he is deporting people who have been here for years, which I really don't support at all.…
  24. 2074.

    Strict separation of church and state best upholds democracy

    For

    • First I will address his attacks on my case and then I will reattack his case. He begins his attack on my case by saying that I assume that all you voters are Christian. I did no such thing. I merely provided scriptural evidence to OPPOSE his own scriptural evidence. As you can…
    • Please excuse my random outburst earlier. I have turrets. Just kidding. But, no, seriously on to the debate. I now will start by offering my case and then addressing my opponent's. 1 Peter 2:16-17 (Old King James Version) As free, and not using your liberty for a cloak of…

    Against

    • This will be a typical LD debate, so therefore technically the Aff should go first, then I shall go next. I'll first start with two definations. 1. Strict - exact or precise (dictionary.com) 2. Democracy - A government by the people served by the will of the majority of the…
    • Him and his turrets lol. Anyways, I will in this round attack my opponents case then rebuild my own, however I'll start with the fallacies in my opponents case. He assumes that we are all Christian. He has stated Bible passages and uses the Christian Bible for nearly his entire…
  25. 2075.

    Presidents should be required to publicly release tax returns

    For

    • The media is corrupt on both sides. This is common knowledge. I don't know why the media does this. Conservative media telling conservatives what they want to hear and same with liberal media telling liberals what they want to hear. [2][3] That's why I stop identifying myself…
    • As to the audit releasing the information would not harm Trump. Since no new information would be disclosed. "This claim, on its face, is absurd, since he would simply be releasing information the IRS already has. No new information would be disclosed." [0]I don't even know…

    Against

    • Your room or middle eastern problems are both problems, but the problems I addressed are both issues with meaningful connection, and it's extremely unfair of you to paint it as a red herring. I would like to make note of the fact that you never actually put any real reason why…
    • You hope for more information on both candidates but do not wish to put in the time to do your research. Regarding Uranium, here you go. [1] I would like to point out that google does not allow you to search up articles regarding the topic, so you have to search it up on bing…
  26. 2076.

    Donald Trump is sensationalised by media outside the United States

    For

    • The negative seems to be highly against the views and opinions of Donald Trump. However, I believe that these views and opinons are those of a sensationalised presidential candidate. How is it possible for a racist, stereotypical person to run for the highly exclusive role as…
    • One point stands out within the case of the negative... he seems poised to win. Elections take place across America to decide which president would be the best for the country. Is the negative stating that all Americans are stupid for voting for an insane and racist leader. Is…

    Against

    • Trump has repeatedly made derogatory comments towards Mexicans such as how they are all "rapists and murderers". How is there any other way that that could be taken other than racism. Then there is his views on Muslims which are based on the generalisation that all Muslims are…
    • Donald Trump doesn't need to be sensationalised, his policies are just so crazy that the rest of the world cannot comprehend why so many Americans have been voting for them. From the point of the view of the rest of the world, for the last 8 years, America has been run by a…
  27. 2077.

    European countries should restrict immigration

    For

    • I think you do not understand what I am saying. These countries should not close their borders completely. They should allow genuine refugees in, but not at the mass level that they are doing now and they should have a system to ensure that violent criminal and terrorists do…
    • Most immigrants coming into Europe are not Syrian, according to the EU. http://www.dailymail.co.uk... 21% of the immigrants in Europe are Syrian. Others are pretending to be Syrian to get into Europe. http://www.smh.com.au... according to Serbian border police 90% of those…

    Against

    • Preamble: I've seen that you have created debates like this in the past. And I've seen too that you have always won them. But I've also noticed that you use the same arguments over and over again. Let's tackle this out of a new viewpoint.] Do you think that everyone should have…
    • I will hereby accept your challenge. I'm keen on seeing your arguments.
  28. 2078.

    The US motto should remain In God We Trust

    For

    • My Opponent: "What my opponent is doing here is what many people are guilty of - looking at only one part of history while ignoring other parts. Because of their bias and preconceived notions, they look at history with a limited view, ignoring the bigger picture. A very common…
    • I will start by refuting his arguments. My Opponent: "So let me ask you, shall be include that in our motto? Shall we edit the motto to say "We Shall Not Tolerate Any Other Religion Than Protestantism, In God We Trust"? I highly doubt you would say so, seeing as how absurd this…

    Against

    • My opponent "laments" at my bad manners and personal attacks, but I have done nothing of the sort. Sure, I have criticized his arguments using words such as "willful ignorance", but this is nowhere near an ad hominen attack. Because not only are such phrases directed only…
    • Such a short response will mean one of three things: he's a genius who needs only a few words to get his point across, my arguments were so horrid that large responses weren't necessary, or his responses are lacking. I opt with the conclusion that his responses are lacking -…
  29. 2079.

    Ronald Reagan was a better president than Barack Obama

    For

    • My RefutationsPresident ReaganI. Economic Policy"My opponent counter refutes my point about supply-side economics being a failure by only talking about Clinton. Okay, yes, I mentioned Clinton, but you are getting totally off topic. Also, just because Clinton gave a tax cut…
    • My RefutationsPresident ReaganI. Economic Policy"My opponent said that Reagan was a strong supporter of supply-side economics, however, supply-side ecnomics has proven a failure after three decades [1]." The idea that supply-side economics (also known Laffer curve) has proven…

    Against

    • I will begin with my finishing rebuttals, and then conclude this debate. My opponent says that my source only talks about Clinton, however this is false. Read the article man!My opponent says that Apple is doing badly because of Obama, however this is false. Apple, and other…
    • I would like to begin by reinforcing my rebuttals. My opponent counter refutes my point about supply-side economics being a failure by only talking about Clinton. Okay, yes, I mentioned Clinton, but you are getting totally off topic. Also, just because Clinton gave a tax cut…
  30. 2080.

    The United States and Canada could go to war with each other

    For

    • Yes war would be horrible for the US but we've been through 20 of them the worse being Vietnam. And the queen would intervene but we held a revolution against her country and we'd do it again.
    • My opponent has said: Since our country doesn't hold the imperialistic idea of Manifest Destiny anymore, we have no desire to annex Canada. well during manifest destiny we went to war with Mexico for states like Texas or California. We've dealt with our southern neighbor so why…

    Against

    • War would be horrible, and that goes without saying, but defying all of our alliances would make it much worse. We revolted against England because they were taxing us without representation. and various other reasons. We have no reason to break such an integral alliance for no…
    • As I've said, we no longer have the idea of Manifest Destiny. Not to mention, going to war with Canada would be absolutely horrible for the United States. Sure, we could get land, but we have plenty of room. We don't need land. Canada has not done anything against us. But they…
  31. 2081.

    The UN General Assembly should recognise Palestinian statehood

    For

    • Palestine is a legal entity and deserves to have its voice heard on an equal footing with Israel
    • The issue of Israel/Palestine has been a major one for the UN for sixty years, it is simply unfair that one of the parties represented and the other one is not

    Against

    • The Palestinian cause has no shortage of advocates in the UN this would add nothing to the discussion
    • The UN has historically recognised statehood when nations achieve it, not when they ask for it or wish it
  32. 2082.

    Republicans are not 'racist' as commonly alleged

    For

    • Many thanks to CON for challenging me in a debate. I wish him the absolute best of luck. This debate, as I stated above will be about debunking the stereotypes of the Republican party being the party of racists. ArgumentsLet's take a look back at history shall we? The…
    • Hello everyone, I would like to debate politics about how the Republican party is not racist. I believe if anything, they're horribly stereotyped because most of the party consists of white Americans. First round is for acceptance. Thank you very much.

    Against

    • Even Republicans think Republicans are RacistOne need not go to the democratic side of politics to confirm that the Republican Party is racist. Plenty of confirmation can be found by asking prominent Republicans. They should know, after all.Here is Colin Powell's Chief of…
    • Obviously, it would be a mistake to stereotype every member of the Republican Party as racist. As Bill Maher once quipped, "You don't have to be a racist to be a Republican, but if you are a racist, you are probably going to vote Republican. " I don't suppose that Republican…
  33. 2083.

    Church and state should be strictly separated

    For

    • I extend my arguments, and submit that they affirm the resolution. I would like to thank Guidestone for conceding, rather than simply forfeiting, and I thank him for 4 delightful rounds. Maybe we can rehash this issue at some later time.
    • Thanks again to Guidestone! I will use this round to conduct a line-by-line rebuttal of Con's claims thus far. P1: The Nature of the Establishment ClauseI shall place Con's remarks in italics. My rebuttals shall be in regular script, as before."This is separation of Church from…

    Against

    • I would like to continue this maybe during spring break, as it is a topic I must look up a lot about since I don't know much right off hand, so I need lots of time.
    • I am sorry, but I literally have no time to finish this debate. If at a later point if you would want to redo this debate when I am more free I would be glad to. This has become more of a burden, and I have more important things that are occupying my time, so I concede to my…
  34. 2084.

    Gun control should take priority over border security

    For

    • You're convincing me. I guess my main focus was that we should not just focus on reforming our border. I was mainly referring to President Trump putting most of his time into that issue and not much else. I probably should've rephrased my debate topic and I believe we are on…
    • Hello again. I will have to disagree with you saying that we have a corrupt government. While our government isn't as great as it's been, It easily trumps (no pun intended) other civilizations throughout the world. While both issues need attention, I believe that illegal…

    Against

    • i think it is a false choice, It is important we control our borders, I do agree lax gun laws are a seriousl serious problem as far as how corrupt our government is is an important question check the Corruption Perceptions Index we are way down the list we are very corrupt
    • Both issues need to be attended to we do need border security maybe not some huge wall but we need to secure the border, The gun situation is a problem but has been for decades and opposition to doing anythng even little things is crazy strong. U nofrtunetely this is nt new…
  35. 2085.

    An atheist president would be acceptable to the public

    For

    • Ah, I apologize for not being specific. I am arguing for someone like an agnostic atheist or someone like Hemant Mehta, who has a blog here: http://www.patheos.com...; I agree, it is certainly a waste of time to argue whether a militant atheist (or a militant anything for that…
    • I extend my arguments, I hope con will be back.

    Against

    • Your website about 'pantheos' doesn't exist. Error 404. .. so yeah! ! Here's my rebuttals. 1A. The Bible My opponent: "I live under the assumption that the Bible was written by man and not inspired by a higher deity. " Off the top of my head, here's a verse claiming that the…
    • So you're not a militant atheist, I see. If a militant atheist was president many things would go wrong for our country, don't you think? Religions would be cast out, etc., (but I don't see how we'd even get as far as electing a militant atheist). Are you arguing that an…
  36. 2086.

    Russia would defeat the United States in a war

    For

    • Now, my opponent states that the invasion will begin from Alaska, across the Bering Strait. This means that many troops and vehicles would have to be flown over to Alaska. This would give Russia time to prepare. Russia's naval mine warfare force consists of 34 ships. (Second…
    • I will be arguing that Russia would defeat the USA in a war. These will be the conditions for our debate. 1. No nuclear weaponry. Just "traditional" warfare. 2. No allies, just 1 v 1, Russia vs. USA. 3. US is the aggressor (realistic considering America's aggressive war…

    Against

    • I accept this debate and as per rules I state that the US invades across the Bering Strait from Alaska.
    • I am unable to finish this debate, so please give my opponent the conduct point. Sorry.
  37. 2087.

    ISIS could trigger a third world war

    For

    • According to you it is correct but day by day few people are joining ISIS . If At all they acquire a nuclear weapon the whole world is in trouble .And also they are spreading terror groups in Libya and other countries and if at all you drop bomb recently the attacks on Paris .…
    • yes due to day to day fights and killing there should be next world war coming up against terror

    Against

    • You said that if they get a nuclear weapon the world is in trouble. That is very unlikely. Nuclear weapons are very difficult and expensive to acquire. Then where would you launch it? It is inconvenient and unrealistic. And if ISIS had any sense they would not launch a nuke…
    • First off, I would like to introduce myself. I am HRSuperior and I accept your debate. I hope there will be no foul play in our session. Now personally I disagree with you. There are many things we must consider when we are talking about a third world war. The whole world needs…
  38. 2088.

    Party affiliation should disqualify candidates from government office

    For

    • Whatever, c*nt
    • blah blah blah its like im talking to a f*cking brick wall. forget it

    Against

    • My opponent has resorted to name calling now. I believe I should be voted for with arguments, because I actually offered something besides just opinion, as well as awarded conduct.
    • What, were you expecting me to concede this easily? You offered no good argument so far. You haven't even proved your claims that they disregard the working class and minorities. I would agree with you, but you have offered weak points so far. I'm not just a brick wall, I do…
  39. 2089.

    The United States should be considered terrorists if the Taliban are

    For

    • I. Code BoundThis was the argument I was expecting the opposition to make. The US is bound by a code to respect citizens lifes, yet, this begs the question, why do civilians keep dying under the US military? This is the real question we need to ask ourselves. Just because…
    • I. Terrorism is ObjectiveA lot of people try to disregard all arguments by saying they're subjective. Augustine of Hippo disagreed with these people, and I have for a long time myself. Defintions are not interchangable. They simply aren't. The phrase, "If it looks like a duck,…

    Against

    • I will not argue points I or II because they areimpacts from war in general, I wont ever really argue point II but this is where your argument becomes flawed. In your 3rd point you state "We project military strength, use flame warfare tactics in combat, and have several…
    • I accept:Definition Of Terrorist: those who commit violent acts, intended to create fear (terror); and deliberately target or intentionaly disregard the safety of non-combatants with an overall goal to oppress individuals through violence.
  40. 2090.

    Guns should be banned in the United States

    For

    • In conclusion: Guns are not a necessity for defense because there are non-violent, yet powerful, alternatives, such as tazers. These work just as well in defending your self, family, and property as a gun, because there is equal opportunity for attack between both the attacker…
    • I won't say anything new, because my opponent hasn't, but maintain my stance that guns should be banned because they are too unsafe for innocent lives, and there are also defensive non-lethal alternatives.

    Against

    • 1. Guns are necessary for the safety of a home to protect yourself and your property. 2. Guns serve as a weapon for self defense when ever the police fail to provide the services of protection to the general public. 3. Guns should not be banned because criminals will now be the…
    • Rebuttal. 1. "guns are mostly just able to be used as a scare tactic for criminals, rather than being any good for actual defense." A pencil is nothing more than just a writing utensil, but it is not going to make you fail your test right? It is all in the hands of the…
  41. 2091.

    Another revolutionary war will occur in the United States

    For

    • First, welcome to the debate, if this is indeed one, for as I see it you have presented no argument against my premise at all. In any case let me address a few of your points, then I will move on. 1.) Rebuttal: Impossible. The U.S. constitution was drafted in 1787, signed in…
    • The answer, of course, is yes. But why do I believe this? Because history repeats itself, and that is exactly what is going on today as we speak. Let me explain further. You see, in 1775, Great Britain decided to implement a thing called the Stamp Act, which many Americans at…

    Against

    • Opponent forfeits.
    • All arguments extended into final round.
  42. 2092.

    Democrats should control the US government

    For

    • The current state of the United States is an advantage to the government. But is it an advantage to the people? Republicans claim to be 'liberal', but they very much are and support extreme conservatism. While they do support liberal values as well, the United States is overrun…

    Against

    • Well for anyone still reading - we've come to the end of this "debate" and I am the only person continuing to post. As such it seems only right that voters yield their votes to my position. Thank you for your interest.
    • Thank you for your time and attention.
  43. 2093.

    Democracy has failed as a system of government

    For

    • Defense of R2:Specifications:I referred to a specific type of monarchy (hereditary and based on private property) that historically existed and thus cannot be considered unrealistic. This was specifically permitted in the rules. The Wikipedia page was for supplemental…
    • On the Definition of Democracy:Con's definition of democracy is invalid because he fiats in the assumption that people will actually control the government. This is equivalent to me stipulating that the monarch will be a nice person. His definition describes monarchy just as…

    Against

    • A Defense of Round 2:Definition of Democracy: Pro asserts that my definition of democracy is invalid because it assumes people will "actually" control the government. This is a cynical contention. A democracy is a government where the citizenry control the acts of governance.…
    • Specifications of the Monarchical System Pro's definition of monarchy has very little to do with his given source. Nowhere in the Wikipedia article (which is not the most credulous source, since he can edit it) is there mention of "private property", which is integral to the…
  44. 2094.

    Barack Obama would have defeated George W. Bush in an election

    For

    • I don't have trouble, but I am pretty sure you do. One point i have to make like I made before Obama made a point and promised America a lot of things and I have the list to prove it. Here is the first 100 days of Barrack obama in office, because i know you are to familiar with…
    • See this is the problem I am not talking about violence at all. This is the problem. Two in some of our native tongue that is why English is a hard language you will not understand. Three I am getting back to the debate in our last round you said nothing about bush wining…

    Against

    • Okay, finally you provide a bit of evidence! However, you failed to tie your evidence to your premise, which is that Barack (note: not "Barrack") would "destroy Bush in an election". I have shown that Obama wouldn't destroy Bush in an election and you offered no argument. Also…
    • First of all, it's perfectly obvious that you think the English language is hard to understand, and you don't need to tell us that you have trouble speaking it. If you were looking for a debate about the winner of an Obama-Bush election, you shouldn't have made your premise:…
  45. 2095.

    Citizens should have a right to own guns

    For

    • Yes there should be gun rights. We should be allowed to own as many guns of whatever type we want. I win.
    • I win this round.

    Against

    • We should have the right to protect ourselves if someone is trying to get into our house and they have a gun well we have one to. You are saving not only yourselves but others that could be in danger as well
    • I believe that you should have the right to own guns.
  46. 2096.

    Gun control laws should be stricter

    For

    • I'm also very new to this site and I thank you for debating with me, also I do live in the U.S. While its true that criminals break the law stricter laws will make fewer criminals break the law. Also while it is true we have background checks and some limitations on firearms we…
    • First, of I would like to say how it will work and good luck to the challenger 1st Round: Opening 2nd Round: Rebuttals 3rd Round: Speech 4th Round: Rebuttals 5th Round: Closing speech Now I will start. There are many reasons why we should have gun control. One reason is that…

    Against

    • Could you state what gun control you think we need. If you create more laws and regulation and do not enforce them like the ones we have now then what is the point, all that would be accomplished would be making it harder for law abiding citizens to get firearms. I am not sure…
    • I am a little new to this site and will try to to best I can to get my point across on this platform. Be for I get stated you should know that some gun control is necessary but not to the extent that it has been presented by many. I believe you live in the U. S. so this…
  47. 2097.

    Obama's policies hindered the US economic recovery

    For

    • I'm glad Con stepped up and took the debate challenge. The issues we are discussing are important, especially with elections coming up. We know the Obama recovery policies have failed because the U.S. is sorely lagging other nations: "According to the Trading Economics website,…
    • The full resolution is, "President Obama and the Democrats in Congress could have adopted different laws and policies to lead the United States into a more effective economic recovery." This challenge is intended for an experienced debater; please do not accept the challenge if…

    Against

    • 1. The economic stimulus package was not a failure. Yes, indeed the Obama administration did say that if the stimulus package was passed that the unemployment rate would not surpass 8%, and obviously it was wrong. However, the only thing that proves is that the administration…
    • 1. Yes, I believe we both can agree that in any recession a drop in consumer spending occurs. However, throughout this debate you have suggested that the reason our businesses aren't hiring is because they are worried about the future of regulations. Meaning that fundamentally…
  48. 2098.

    Immigration reform is good for the country

    For

    • I will be arguing in favor of Immigration reform. Reason 1. The Economy The Immigration bill that was recently passed by the Senate is proven to be extremely helpful to the economy by creating more jobs, lowering the deficit, and growing the GDP. The CBO (Congressional Budget…
    • As I said in my last argument, they will go to the back of the line of the people looking for jobs. They can ask to be lawyers and doctors all they want but it will never happen because they need years of schooling only to be put behind citizens born in the U.S. Not to mention…

    Against

    • I do think immagrents should come leagly but i dont think it should be very "user frendly" i think they should apply or even ahving bidings to enter they should action citizenship to Want to be American Citizens it would clear up a lot i see immagrents here all the time that…
    • Yes they are ubskilled so they will ask wich jobs earn a lot of cash $$ "" "" "" i6;m1;k3; and those are lawyers and dr.s and theu will be terrible at it and cause mayham giving out bad prascriptions and losing court cases etc. If they want to come i support that thats what our…
  49. 2099.

    The United States should adopt stricter gun control

    For

    • Rebuttals-My opponent's rebuttal of the self defense dropping case is almost completely anecdotal. She just explains why she thinks thats the reason self defense cases have gone down. Because she lists no other factual reason then her rebuttal has no case-My opponent fails to…
    • My side will argue that a Gun Ban will save lives and be better for citizens. We wont be arguing for unconstutionality however.1. It wouldnt affect personal defense situationsPeople using guns for personal safety is extremely rare. A study recently conducted that out of the…

    Against

    • Self defense cases may have dropped in recent years, but I believe this has something to do with what the average person and jury believes to be a 'justifiable homicide.' The very definition of self defense seems to be changing. When a police officer shoots back at a criminal,…
    • Gun control can be defined in many different ways. Background checks, banning automatic or semi-automatic guns, or the banning of guns altogether all fit under the range. I decided to argue to banning fire arms to make the topic more specific, and that is a perfectly valid…
  50. 2100.

    Sweden should significantly reduce immigration

    For

    • I would like to remind people NOT TO VOTE IN THIS DEBATEI would also like to express to Triangle that once he returns I would like to have this debate again, and I was enjoying throughly.
    • Given the circumstances, rather than an argument, I would like to appeal to Airmax to reconsider the ban on triangle.128k.triangle.128k is a good debater, an active member and a credit to the DDO community. This ban should be considered a loss to all those who enjoy DDO.

    Against

    • Due to me facing a ban, me and BrendanD19 have agreed to tie and have a rematch. Please do note vote on this debate.
    • 1. ModerationWhile the Sweden Democrats have questionable roots and have stemmed from fascism, they have changed to be very different over the past several years. Since 1995, Mikael Jansson (former member of the Centre Party) had joined the Sweden Democrats and had helped to…

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?

More question collections

Questions adapted from args.me corpus (CC BY 4.0), edited for clarity. This collection may be reused under the same terms — see sources & licenses.