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Religion Debate Topics — page 39

3,675 debate topics, all ages. Debatable motions with arguments for and against. Open the arguments below, pick one at random, or present them full-screen.

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  1. 1901.

    Biblical creationism is incorrect

    For

    • My opponent has been unable to post a full response, despite a full 6 days (his + my forfeits) in which to do so, due to technical difficulties. My apologies to my opponent and good luck in fixing my opponent's computer. --- Rebuttal Rebuttals: 3C1A: "His statement is ...…
    • 2C1: "No human ... was present at the foundations of existence, except ... God. ... I cannot assert ... [Biblical Creation] did, or did not happen ... Pro cannot argue that a natural process did, or did not give rise to the universe." 1. Personal experience is often biased and…

    Against

    • Unfortunately, two factors have combined to produce quite an ugly result. 1. I destroyed the OS on my laptop. 2. I am going on vacation tomorrow. I began my rebuttals, but was unable to complete them, and will be unable to defend my position. It is up to my opponent whether…
    • A Defense of Biblical Creationism First I would like to clarify one thing: I have already won. You see, to assert one knows the origins of the universe, as well as the correctness of one particular theory, one has already lost. No human being was present at the foundations of…
  2. 1902.

    An afterlife does not exist

    For

    • Consciousness in an emergent property of a functional brain- this is both true and untrue. By saying this you are saying when people fall unconscious their brain ceases to function. By stating this everyone unconscious is basically dead."Consciousness is an emergent property of…
    • ... the memories other s have of you when you die is a way of living after death. Memory and life are clearly completely different things. In any case, your argument still falls over in a scenario where all people die. In such a scenario, nobody could have any memories of other…

    Against

    • i will no longer paticipate in this argument when my opponent states "that there is no reasonable response that could possibly mean anything significant to Con." that is a insult, therefore i won't finish this debate.
    • Ok. You say I haven't proved anything you said false. Well now I am going to have to disagree with you. You state there is no life after death, I say there is. The bible states that when people die they go to either heaven or hell, thus giving them eternal LIFE. You don't…
  3. 1903.

    Relics of saints should be removed from churches

    For

    • Good day to you, Marauder. I understand that you are not familiar with the Parliament form of debating, so i'll make it a little less-formal. With regards to your first point, I guess I was not able to elaborate my other points on why I am in f of the given motion. Besides from…
    • This debate will follow a parliament form of debating. ____________________________________________________ Status Quo: 1. Relics of saints are being exposed for veneration in different churches, and are kept and safeguarded by people called "Relic custodians" (Latin: Ss.…

    Against

    • Thank you for the allowance of a more formal style for my lack of familiarity with parlament form. I can see where there is concern for keeping a Catholic point of view, if i chose to argue from an athiest perspective arguing that faith is to foolish to consider therfore throw…
    • Hello PavlvsMagnvs! this is my first debate here too. I'm unfamiliar with parliament form and looking at wikapiedia didnt help much. but ill try my best. the motion presented by you have presented is so we can stop... greed I guess, as the ultimate benifit to keeping the relics…
  4. 1904.

    The doctrine of atonement for sins is immoral and illogical

    For

    • "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." A mother working 2 jobs for her children, soldiers in the fields dying for our freedom, doctors putting their own health at stake to heal the inflicted, these are true sacrifices which display…
    • The atonement is an immoral doctrine, specifically "substitutionary atonement" which holds that Christ suffered and died on behalf of humankind. The first round will be for opening arguments. Con will be in favor for a moral atonement doctrine. I will be in favor for an immoral…

    Against

    • 1. "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." - you said "putting their own health at stake to heal the inflicted, these are true sacrifices which display the greatest love" exactly! What did Jesus do? He put his own health at stake to…
    • 1. "Con did not show proof that the atonement through sacrifice is moral." - Not only is it moral, it is the greatest moral act that anyone could have ever committed. "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." John 15:13 2. "If we are…
  5. 1905.

    Catholic teachings contain significant errors

    For

    • Catholics pray to Mary, and don't end their prayers with 'In Jesus' Name' which God clearly wants us to do. I know there is the Trinity, and God means 3 persons in one. So saying God does not just refer to the Father. Babtism and Penance and Eucharist and all that junk is not…
    • First of all Mary the Virgin, and the saints are worshipped. The bible clearly says in the Ten Commandments, have no other gods and do not make yourself a god to worship. Worshipping Mary and the saints clearly violate this law. And the bible does say Mary did have other…

    Against

    • Catholics pray to Mary, and don't end their prayers with 'In Jesus' Name' which God clearly wants us to do. I know there is the Trinity, and God means 3 persons in one. So saying God does not just refer to the Father.Catholics end all prayers with, "In the name of the Father,…
    • I will break down my opponent's arguments piece by piece.First of all Mary the Virgin, and the saints are worshipped. The bible clearly says in the Ten Commandments, have no other gods and do not make yourself a god to worship. Worshipping Mary and the saints clearly violate…
  6. 1906.

    A being that is omniscient, omnipotent and omnibenevolent can exist

    For

    • Most people who look at my resolution will recognize it as the famous problem of evil. The problem of there existing a being(god) who is all powerful, all knowing, and all loving allowing evil to flourish and people to suffer. This being knows when and where all evil, past and…
    • I will be taking the pro position so con will take the position that a being can exist with the above attributes. Round 1- acceptance of debate, definitions Rounds 2 and 3- Arguments and rebuttals Definitions: Omniscient: One having total Natural knowledge within this universe…

    Against

    • I am excited for this debate and grateful for my opponent's desire to debate the topic at hand. My opponent has adjusted to a more common theological framework of definitions, which I am again grateful for.
    • I do want to also scold my opponent for trying to replace the burden of proof. My opponent affirms the resolution: "It is impossible for there to exist a being who is omniscient, omnipotent, and omnibenevolent" I need only point to a scenario whereby that a possibility is…
  7. 1907.

    Noah's ark was a real historical event

    For

    • Acceptance--->|Hello, I'll be happy to listen to your proposition.| I'm fairly confident on the opposing side of this fiasco due to philosophical reasoning's and factual scientific data that is in contrast to the criteria one would have to fall under to to take such a faithful…

    Against

    • CONCLUSIONVote CON!
    • extend all arguments.
  8. 1908.

    Faith schools should be banned because they indoctrinate children

    For

    • By "forced to praise a god" I mean being made to sing hymns etc, and I know it wasn't that bad, but I didn't even go to a faith school, that's just normal state school stuff, it seems to me that public schools (or if you're American, private schools) are worse for…
    • Yes, it's a bit of an equivocation to say indoctrination and brainwashing are the same thing, I apologise, however that's how I felt as a child being forced to praise a god that I was starting to see wasn't really there. Again, I am arguing against indoctrination on principle…

    Against

    • It seems we have run into a philosophical difference here regarding "correct" and "good to know," but I will resist introducing it seeing that it is round 5. "I would argue that that would be a moral infringement, of course it's wrong to teach children things that we know…
    • I would like to begin for thanking my opponent for such a civil, logical debate. Unfortunately, a logical point is not always a sound one, especially when it is attached to emotion: "that's how I felt as a child being forced to praise a god that I was starting to see wasn't…
  9. 1909.

    Religious traditions can change fundamentally over time

    For

    • My opponent has failed to prove whatever it was he was attempting to prove.
    • My opponent opens the second round by pointing out that I misunderstood what he is arguing. I will now do my best to frame his new argument and reply as best I can. My opponent rephrases his initial contention: "I mean horrible diocesans made buy a head / representative of such…

    Against

    • But You see that's not what I meant ! I mean horrible diocesans made buy a head / representative of such religion ! The biggest example is 9/11 it is one of the worlds most known events to happen. Because of that Muslims world wide are known as ' Terrorist's " which in my…
    • When an accurance happens in a religon does it or does it not change the face or " profile " of that religon ?
  10. 1910.

    The world was created in seven days

    For

    • Arguments extended.
    • I extend my arguments.

    Against

    • The book of genesis provides us with an impossible story with Many loopholes. The universe could not have been created in 7 days, even by a supernatural entity (God). If there were no humans to record the event, how did it end up being written down? How could you tell what a…
  11. 1911.

    Biblical teachings justify self-defense

    For

    • I contend that both the new and Old Testament allows for self defense even to the point of killing the assailant.
    • I'm just filling in my slot here.

    Against

    • New testament certainly does not. Jesus says "Love thy enemy as thy own neighbour". "If somebody smite on one of your cheeks, turn to him the other one." This clearly shows that bible does not allow self-defence.
  12. 1912.

    The LDS concept of faith is unreasonable

    For

    • Thank you Varrack for accepting and good luck. Argumentation:The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints places Faith as the first Principle of the gospel. How is faith defined and taught?In Hebrews 11: 1 we read "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence…
    • Resolved: The LDS Concept of Faith is "Unreasonble" Defning Terms: LDS: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, aka MormonsUnreasonable: "without the faculty of reason; deprived of reason."(1)Clarification:Faith is not defined in round one as surely the definition will…

    Against

    • I accept and acknowledge that I am objecting to the charge of the irrationality of faith in the LDS church. If I can show that there is any reason at all behind having faith, the resolution is negated. There appears to be a 6k character limit, so arguments will be shorter than…
    • Thanks for the debate Kasmic. I am glad I was able to participate.Faith and EvidenceThe biggest issue with Pro's case of faith being unreasonable the question of evidence. As I have argued, the process of faith leads up to the revealing of knowledge. Many verses promise that…
  13. 1913.

    Reincarnation is a real phenomenon

    For

    • I concede. (PM me)
    • Sorry I am short on time. Con's round was not much of a rebuttal, but was similar to asking me to expand upon my case without explaining his negation.

    Against

    • Nice. Thanks for the debate, Pro. I negate the resolution due to concession by Pro.
    • Since, to Pro, my rebuttal wasn't much of a rebuttal, I'm going to expand on it here, and I wouldn't mind Pro using the last round for responses/conclusions. *Childhood Memories* None of the sources that Pro provided on childhood memories have explained the methods of Tucker's…
  14. 1914.

    A creator's existence is evident

    For

    • First, You can safely say that the universe behaves like natural objects because the universe is part of this nature. It isn't constantly popping in and out of existence but behaves exactly as natural objects, according to what we see/experience. It has always been like that.…
    • Firstly, your first question: "Why should we prefer your axiom, "everything that begins to exist has a cause", to its inverse, "everything that begins to exist need not to have a cause". I believe everyone should prefer my axiom (it isn't literally mine, by the way. I did not…

    Against

    • Clarification: Human beings, as objects within the universe, can only make observations of other objects that are also contained within the universe. I will be calling objects contained within the universe "natural objects" from this point onward. Furthermore, since it might…
    • Clarification:For the resolution to be true, Pro's arguments must be apparent to everyone who examines them. This is a very simple observation because Pro uses his arguments to imply the validity of the resolution. For his arguments to be apparent, his conclusions within those…
  15. 1915.

    The creation days in Genesis were not 24 hours long

    For

    • DayThe crux of your argument comes from assigning the word "day" one singular definition to fit the entire Bible. For example, by comparing this use of the word day to that in the gospels you are attempting to say that once "day" appears one time in the Bible that definition is…
    • Thank you for accepting. I will be breaking this argument down using scripture.Evidence Against the 24 Hour Day a) The Third DayThen God said, "Let the earth sprout vegetation, plants yielding seed, and fruit trees bearing fruit after their kind, with seed in them, on the…

    Against

    • I hate forfeits. ADDITIONAL ARGUMENTS YOM - we both agree that Yom has three definitions (and that each has been used in various places in the Bible). Both of our arguments rest heavily on our interpretation of that particular word. The definition of yom to be used for any…
    • I will first state my beliefs and then offer a rebuttal to some your statements. Definition of "Day"The Hebrew word for Day is yom has three definitions: a) standard 24-hour day; b) the 12-hour portion of the day which is lit by the sun and occasionally c) an indefinite period…
  16. 1916.

    The New Testament contradicts itself

    For

    • Extension of arguments.Kind regards,TrueScotsman
    • Hi Spencerjoyage14,Thank you for setting up this debate, and I hope that we can discuss these difficult issues by following reason and logic over our emotional inclinations.My Argument will be structured as follows:1. Judas and the Field of Blood2. Jesus and the Centurion3.…

    Against

    • Before I begin today's debate round I would like to define 2 keep words: New Testament and contradiction. The New testament is the 27 books of the Bible canonized by God. Matthew Mark Luke John Acts Romans 1 Corinthians 2 Corinthians Galatians Ephesians Philippians Colossians 1…
    • This debate is about the New Testament Contradicting Itself. First round acceptance, second round case, third round rebuttals (no new points brought up), 4th round crystalizing case points. Standard rules apply.
  17. 1917.

    Scripture teaches that sinners are annihilated in hell

    For

    • R1 is for acceptance. R2 is for opening statements (no rebuttals). R3-R4 is for rebuttal. R5 is for summations.
    • CON did not attempt to address either of my arguments: A1 or A2. I addressed as many of CON's as I could. Therefore, you should vote for PRO in this debate. God would let the rich man suffer temporal punishment for a temporal life of sin. For the third time: the soul is made…

    Against

    • Your problem is you do not have a bible definition of life and death.When Adam sinned, he died immediately. Spiritual death is now lodged in His spirit man. Not ceasing to be aware of his surroundings, but to have the light turned off. Faith was now fear.love was now hate.…
    • I did not see you address why God let the rich man suffer.And you cannot kill the body, it is already dead. It only moves because the spirit man is residing in it. It is merely an earth suit.When we die, we are simply changing locations. Not spiritual conditions.Nowhere does…
  18. 1918.

    There is reason to believe life after death is possible

    For

    • I'd like to begin with Con's first and only point that bears even a semblance of a legitimate contention. With this contention, I will demonstrate that not only has Con failed to make a legitimate argument against my case, but that he his claim tacitly demonstrates that he is…
    • I'd like to start out with Con's strongest point which is, in fact, purporting a two-fold refutation.Con writes:" I would refer you to a book and lecture by Prof. Lawrence Krauss "Something from nothing" Which explains in perfect scientific reason why we have a universe from…

    Against

    • I am also happy he stuck with it all the way. I am new to the site and this is the first time an opponent has stayed through the whole thing. I would have to disagree with his straw man accusation. Is it not the case, as far as misconduct goes, that you stated my argument was…
    • All right, I will keep it simple. B: "Given the terms of my present, conscious, experiencing state, there is reason to believe that future states of consciousness and experience are possible so long as they proceed from the same terms."B1: Terms with respect to experience: 1)…
  19. 1919.

    Humans can achieve a godly state

    For

    • Assuming we both understand supernal to be supernatural: 1.) The New Testament --Humans have the ability to be all-knowing and supernal. [sic]-- Let's break this down. I am arguing the 'ability' to be able to manifest these states at least temporarily, if not at the same time…
    • Humans can achieve a god like state as depicted by the definition of all-knowing or supernal state of being, if not permanently then temporarily. This, to me, is immediately relevant in two major cases which i'll briefly discuss: 1.) The New Testament I believe that we all can…

    Against

    • 1) The New TestamentWhile Jesus may have been part of the Father he was not the Father. The Trinity is 3 in 1, not 1 in 3. While they are connected they are not the same and therefore cannot be given the same characteristics. Jesus was the Word of God but the Word doesn't mean…
    • 1) The New TestamentThe New Testament can be considered as a story, a myth or legend if you will. Since the Bible and the New Testament aren't accepted as fact by the scientific communities in the world it cannot be used to prove that humans have achieved a godly state. If you…
  20. 1920.

    Noah's flood was a real historical event

    For

    • Often those opposed to biblical creation revert to using logical fallacies, but I feel my opponent has expressed his disagreement in a respectful and rational way. The following is my rebuttal of Con's opening arguments. I will use the same titles as him to make my rebuttal…
    • I will present my opening arguments in no particular order and will defend them in the fourth round. IntroductionThe nature of such a historical debate requires a hypothetical approach in which evidence is gathered to demonstrate the validity of a particular model of Earth…

    Against

    • It is sad to see a great debate that ended with a forfeit. Dropped Points Before I proceed to defend my opening arguments, I want to note that pro has dropped two important points: (1) Issue of loss of genetic diversity that results in a species becoming de facto extinct long…
    • This round is for rebuttals to the opening arguments only. As such, I will not defend my opening statements until the next round. Introduction It is certainly true that science relies on predictions. However, I take issue with the idea that if a theory fails to make a…
  21. 1921.

    Women should be allowed to become ordained priests

    For

    • Guardian forfeited the round I presume by not being able to reply quickly enough. I refer them to my previous post and will allow them to make their final comments.
    • "The belief that women should not be ministers or priests is not without knowledge, thought or reason, it is derived from a study of the scriptures. This belief is not preconceived, it is only after study of the Bible that it is accepted." Of course, that is generally where…

    Against

    • Galatians 3:28- "There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. " This is not in direct conflict with the verses I supplied. The Bible is the Word of GOD, and as such, is infallible and unchanging, just as GOD is infallible…
    • 1 Corinthians 14:34-35 says, "Let your women keep silent in the churches, for they are not permitted to speak; but they are to be submissive, as the law also says. And if they want to learn something, let them ask their own husbands at home; for it is shameful for women to…
  22. 1922.

    Baptists and Catholics will both go to heaven

    For

    • I will be arguing that not only do both ends of the spectrum go to heaven, but both can work together to further Christianity. While I may be an Atheist now, I was once a devout Reformed Southern Baptist Christian and I know the ins and outs of Christianity. My disbelief in God…
    • Enjoyed the Forfeit!

    Against

    • I hold that Protestant Denominations are invalid and only Catholics can enter Heaven. I have evidence for this in bible verses, fulfilled biblical prophesy, and writings of the early church. I will start with why Protestantism is invalid and bring forth why Catholicism is…
    • Yes, Point 1 refers to unity. You skipped Point 2 about how no one has jurisdiction to form a sect and break unity without the incredibly audacity of demeaning Paul and Barnabas' authority as beneath them. I will now re-iterate the point of jurisdiction with the earliest known…
  23. 1923.

    Catholicism is not a true religion

    For

    • I pointed out how it's an logical inconsistency to claim that God has infinite mercy, yet at the same time say that one can still be damned to hell. I explained how no act of sin would be so grave that infinite mercy wouldn't allow for forgiveness. You responded with: "its a…
    • "You misunderstand what a Catechism is and the degrees of infallibility." Either something is infallible or it isn't. There are no degrees of infallibility, as there no degrees of truth. Something is either true, or it isn't. It's really simple. Any claim to the contrary is…

    Against

    • Either something is infallible or it isn't. There are no degrees of infallibility, as there no degrees of truth. Something is either true, or it isn'tActually, you aren't right about infallibility. Infallible and true are similar but not the same. Infallible involves the…
    • Your comments once again in bold. Wow, I did not know that the CCC wasn't considered infallible. You misunderstand what a Catechism is and the degrees of infallibility. A catechism is a guide to teach the faith. As such, it contains truths considered infallible. (E.g. Jesus is…
  24. 1924.

    Heaven is preferable to hell

    For

    • The deal is with your perception of the heaven. you may see the heaven as a place in the sky or some where else. this is a misunderstanding of the truth about the heaven . i mean hell and heaven is within you as well god and the devil are the manifestation of yourself. try to…
    • As far as i am concerned , heaven for me means being in a state of bliss when hell means being in a state of misery. Religion on earth , it made to shape our morale epistemology. It is not atheist theory , but the actual reality of what is religion. Beyond that religion gather…

    Against

    • That is really ridiculous. What bliss is there if one can't orgasm or produce adrenalin?In all seriousness, there is no such thing as metaphysical bliss as even something as basic as happiness is a hormonal process so please provide your explanation of the bliss-zone or admit…
    • I don't care if there are 1 trillion virgins, you can't expect a non-physical soul to have sex in a heaven of a religion that prohibits lust as one of the seven deadliest sins.It's clearly not to procreate as that is the entire aim of christian sex so really you can't say that…
  25. 1925.

    Hell would be preferable to Heaven

    For

    • Con has made some great points in his rebuttals, I was tired and realised my debate arguments were due soon, so I apologise for my lackluster performance in that. I have a final rebuttal, and Con may answer it if he wishes to. How am I supposed to enjoy Heaven, knowing friends,…
    • Hey, sorry about how long this has been taking, I've had family stuff going on. My first point will be on the concept of Heaven, as described by the Bible. "Heaven is designed to be a personal paradise where everything and everyone would be to the individual's favor." But…

    Against

    • My opponent has made some pretty weak points in his rebuttal. They can all be rebuted in multiple ways. Pro point 1: In heaven, you would get bored of everything being good. It would be agonizing mentally to succeed at everything. Pro fallacy: Pro does make a good point here.…
    • To start off I would like to make a few things clear. I am an atheist and my interpretation of heaven is coming from any biblical references to it. Since heaven has not been in any current (nor has hell). All evidence will therefore be pulled from the Christian heaven and hell…
  26. 1926.

    Reason is necessary for building strong faith

    For

    • It is interesting that at Gen 1:6-8 the Hebrew word "raqia", is translated " firmament" or "expanse" and carries the thought of something "stretched out" or "beaten out". While it is possible to beat out or stretch solids, in some cases it is unreasonable to rule out a…
    • In my opening argument, I mentioned that the Bible will be used as evidence in this debate. As I pointed out previously, faith is based on accurate knowledge. In the examples you have pointed out, its easy to see that they look contradictory when the passage is not understood…

    Against

    • Firmament On the topic of the firmament. It says in Genesis ""Then God said, "Let there be an expanse in the midst of the waters, and let it separate the waters from the waters." God made the expanse, and separated the waters which were below the expanse from the waters which…
    • That doesn't change the fact that relying on the Bible alone is unreasonable. If you do, then you can claim anything in the book is correct. For example, let's say hypothetically that I feel the wind, and think it's going West. Using this evidence, I could claim the wind only…
  27. 1927.

    Sola scriptura is a false Christian doctrine

    For

    • You never rebutted my argument nor understood it. I never said Chronicles was inaccurate. Your lack of understanding is amazIng. I just said that since Chronicles was written much later, it was based on tradition that's all. Since you have me nothing else to rebut or counter…
    • Yes indeed while the Bible is infallible, not everyone's interpretation is. This is proven true by seeing all the different Christian denominations around the world. With that being said, whose to say that the interpretations of scripture by men like Polycarp and Clement of…

    Against

    • There is so much wrong with your argument.Firstly, you claim the infallibility of the Bible, yet then say that Chronicles is not accurate. You attempt to explain that since the books are not written in the time of the actual events, that they are not accurate. However, by…
    • In Christianity, it is important that we learn directly from the source of God's divine doctrine: the bible. In this Christian debate, as is stated, we both believe that the bible is the divine source of knowledge; it has the stance of all that is good. We therefore have to…
  28. 1928.

    An afterlife is possible

    For

    • Afterlife is a scientific hypothesis. There aren't reliable evidences that mind (the self) is mind
    • I conclude that afterlife is possible because paranormal phenomena is possible and can be better explained with afterlife hypothesis. Brain=mind isn't a good explanation for paranormal. If brain is correlated with mind, but there's no cause-effect relation. Who have means and…

    Against

    • There are no conclusions that support this other than faith, which is unreliable when compared to scientific experimentation.
  29. 1929.

    The Trinity doctrine is unbiblical

    For

    • It appears that you're trying to justify multiple interpretations to be TRUE regarding the Bible. This is not my definition of Biblical. To me, Biblical implies the original faith of Christ, the faith of His Apostles and their followers. Trying to justify an evolution is a new…
    • Thank you for the reply, Well for one, it appears that you agree with me more then disagree. I will keep this short and just outline some statements that I disagree with and why. 1. The passages you quoted are taken out of context. None of them are Messianic prophecies. These…

    Against

    • You're right. The passages that I quoted from OT, to try to imply that Messiah would be from a divine nature, were indeed took out of context and weren't Messianic prophecies. The problem was that I limited myself to google some examples, without making sure of its veracity.…
    • I really appreciate the points presented by Pro and I hope I don't let him down. Before answering Pro's statements, I just want to say that, in my perspective, Trinity is just a way to try to explain God, his existence and interactions with us. But if it gets too confusing or…
  30. 1930.

    Churches should be required to pay taxes

    For

    • I don"t understand how your debate relates to the topic. Did you accidentally put this on the wrong debate? If so fell free to tell me in the comments of this debate. Anyways, Churches make money, And don"t donate that much away. The should be taxed for what they make. That is…
    • Hope you are having a good day! My opponent said, "Church should not pay taxes because they are the center for religions. " Sure churches are the center for religion, But they shouldn't be tax exempt. All places that make money pay taxes, Except churches. Churches make money,…

    Against

    • I feel weird. I feel needed I feel interesting. What do these words describe? Well, Me! What am I? A person! What is plural person? People! What do people do? Go to church! "Take me to church I'll worship like a dog at the shrine of your lies I'll tell you my sins and you can…
    • "When adults respond quickly and consistently to bullying behavior they send the message that it is not acceptable. Research shows this can stop bullying behavior over time. Parents, School staff, And other adults in the community can help kids prevent bullying by talking about…
  31. 1931.

    Reincarnation is not a myth

    For

    • Definition Life: The existence of an individual human being or animal. http://www.oxforddictionaries.com... Argument As defined above life is existence and for existence we need energy. It is energy is what we require for life and when this energy leaves our bodies our body…
    • Definition Reincarnation: The re-birth of a soul in another body. http://www.oxforddictionaries.com... Reincarnation is not a myth because we know that energy cannot be destroyed or created but it can be transferred as stated by the law of conservation of energy so I believe…

    Against

    • I really dont care about this argument so see yah later in another poinless argument
    • Do you belie that when you die you will come back. Reincarnation is bringing life back not energy. I am not a religious person the slightest bit so that might alter my desiccation but is alters it for a reason. Reincarnation is a myth
  32. 1932.

    Natural selection disproves theism

    For

    • Against ConRecall that Con's burden is to show that it's in principle impossible to disprove God by natural selection. That means con supposes that it is impossible for me to show a contradiction between one of God's attributes with a wedge that exists, such as natural…
    • Thank you Phantom for the welcome! ... On to debate mode -Against ConAt first blush, having the ability to make it impossible to disprove oneself, would presuppose the self's existence, not prove it. And if that self (God in this case), is found to be a contradictory idea, then…

    Against

    • It appears there has been some confusion over definitions. I will respond in two ways, (first) that the definition is confusing and my interpretation of it was justified, (two) that my interpretation of the definition was more reasonable than pros and (three) the definition…
    • That's because pro has attributed him with the property of being able to actualize any logical fact. In other words, he would have the ability to make square circles exist. This is in contrast to the more common theistic conceptions of omnipotence where God only has the ability…
  33. 1933.

    The days of Genesis 1 represent literal 24-hour periods

    For

    • Sorry about the delay Well, not the debate I intended to have, but I can try to develop a response. First, why would it be `good` if the creation was not capable of surviving. Yes, plants can survive a day without the light of the sun, but assuming that the sun and moon didnt…
    • This is my first debate, so bare with me... "In Genesis 1 (the creation story) do days represent 24 hour time periods or ages" I will be arguing for the day age approach. Where the days are not 24 hour days, but rather long period of time, potentially millions of years. I will…

    Against

    • My argument is based on, it is neither day = 24 hours, nor day = ages. And it is simple to do. I am aware of the word "yom" it is similar to Arabic "yawm". The word "yom" is also means long period of time, as Arabic word "yawm".Now, let's assume "day" in Genesis means long…
    • We are not debating Quran, but Bible. If you are so sure about contradictions in Quran, let's debate. Show me that contradictions. I am not just saying there is contradictions in Bible, also showing them, and explaining them. God created earth before sun, there was day, night,…
  34. 1934.

    Life after death is probable

    For

    • Sigh I was hoping for an actual debate. Oh well my points are still standing regardless.
    • Well it seems the con has forfeited. My points move onto the next round.

    Against

    • life after death cannot be scientifically proved by any living creature with any kinds of methods and stuff. Saying something about life after life is like talking about how looks like Uranus that no one ever visited. For my first point, let me state that there is no proof that…
  35. 1935.

    Faith should not be considered a virtue

    For

    • If not all then many theistic religions elevate faith as a virtue. However, far from praise worthy, faith is belief in a proposition without evidence and can therefore can be used to justify anything. This is not conducive to building a moral society. A virtue is a behavior…
    • The point I make about Guyana is not that religion is necessarily Causing the country's problems, but rather the point I make is that one cannot look to the evidence you presented and draw the conclusion that secularism lead to a higher degree of suicide in these countries. The…

    Against

    • "A virtue is a behavior which exhibits high moral standards." Doesn't faith already give a high moral standard? Faith is not the belief in God so much as it is the belief in the values which that "God" has engrained into our society. With every different religion comes a…
    • Well let's begin on why I brought up the point of the Swedish Rape Statistics, the reason why I brought it up is to show the results of what the world has witnessed many times over. The idea of a secular leader is good in theory, but in reality we can see the results of…
  36. 1936.

    Deism is an absurd position

    For

    • "The definition of deism you emphasize is constrictive. I have said some deists believe God intervenes in the universe. For example, Benjamin Franklin was deist who believed in miracles." Yes, there who people who identify as Deist who believe in things contradictory to Deism.…
    • "A better definition of deism would be a belief in God based on reason." This implies that all non-deist religions are irrational. Because of this absurd (or at least, unsubstantiated) assertion, Deism must remain defined as the belief in a god who doesn't interfere with…

    Against

    • I'll just end it with why I think deism isn't absurd and the case for deism. I argued that deism is a reasoned approach to faith and that it generally rejects organized religion. My opponent says deism is absurd because it is a belief in a God who doesn't care whether one is…
    • The definition of deism you emphasize is constrictive. I have said some deists believe God intervenes in the universe. For example, Benjamin Franklin was deist who believed in miracles. But let's assume the deist's God doesn't interfere with Nature. What next ? You don't…
  37. 1937.

    Trying to spread atheism or discourage theism is immoral

    For

    • Here's what I think. Morals are subject to opinion. Even when you back it up with logic, something that you consider to be moral is really just a matter of opinion, a case of do unto others as you would have them to unto you. And while I still believe that it's wrong to promote…
    • After considering what you have to say I have come to this conclusion: it is more beneficial to an individual to embrace religion, while it is more beneficial to a society if it embraces atheism. I still feel that religion servers a better purpose in the individuals life. If…

    Against

    • I have given arguments that are based on more than opinion. We have established that most religions are not true. I have shown that truth is a moral issue on consequentialist grounds. I have presented the argument that I cannot in good conscience do anything other than…
    • He concedes that it is to the benefit of a society to embrace atheism. His reservation is that he thinks theism serves the happiness of the individual in a society that is not yet converted to atheism. He has not established that this is true. Regardless, the short term does…
  38. 1938.

    The common concept of heaven and the afterlife is nonsensical

    For

    • sigh*
    • My opponent has forfieted. My questions have not been answered. I extend all arguments.

    Against

    • You get to heaven by basically dieing and believing that Jesus Christ died on the cross for your sins and you give your life to him. You might have done something wrong like stolen or even murdered someone, but that doesn't mean you can't go to heaven. Now think about it, You…
  39. 1939.

    Jesus of Nazareth did not exist historically

    For

    • My opponent has attempted to use their religious beliefs to show that Jesus Christ was not the Son of God. However, this debate is not over whether Jesus was the Son of God, it is about whether he existed. The vast majority of scholars, even those who are not Christians, agree…
    • By the way, I have noticed that Con has accidentally taken the wrong position, and I will allow him to proceed as if he had not. Being that my opponent has now assumed the role of Pro, they obviously have the BoP. I would love to hear your arguments for how Jesus Christ does…

    Against

    • I believe in the old testament and the it clearly states that God's name is Jehovah and that there none before him or after him. that brings me to say that JC can not possibly be a son of God. There is no such thing. The pros and cons thing was a mere mistake. Do not dwell on it.
    • squirrelnuts57 is correct.
  40. 1940.

    Muhammad was the greatest man who ever lived

    For

    • I am going to argue that Mohammed (PBUH) was the greatest man to walk the earth. Greatest meaning : of an extent, amount, or intensity considerably above average.
    • First thing you need to do is to read carefully. I told round 2 for your argument why he is not the greatest man on earth. you made it a rebuttal round . You said: Narrated "Abdur-Rahman bin Al-Aswad: (." "Aisha added, "None of you could control his sexual desires as the…

    Against

    • I'll refute my opponent's arguments regarding Mohammed to be the greatest ever.
    • Refuting Pro...Round #2 here we go! Pro says "There are about 1.5 billion muslim in the world, that makes 23% of the worlds population. Do you know of any other man in the history of man kind who had such great following. His followers are spread in almost every part of the…
  41. 1941.

    Prayer should be allowed in public schools

    For

    • (No offence taken my friend. All is fair in love and savagery. And debating.) Pro, To clarify, I strongly believe that the Christian values are correct. In fact, most religious (non extremist, of course) teach good values to everyone. Buddhism especially so. I meant that…
    • Dear Con, I think you have misinterpreted my point. To develop, I believe that all people can participate in prayer, but it is NOT necessary. If someone wants to ignore it, let them! As an atheist, I took no offence in listening to people pray. TV, books, public places, prayer…

    Against

    • Prayer should not be allowed in public school. As public school is a governmental institution, it must abide by the American rule of separation of church and state. Furthermore, prayer in school has been proven to subject children of opposing faiths and beliefs to…
    • Dear SIgmaGamer, Hi. You state that Christian values are correct and America is a Christian nation. Many Americans do believe that Christianity and its values are true, though many do not. Saying this discriminates against those opposed to Christian values As America is not a…
  42. 1942.

    The story of Noah's Ark is fiction

    For

    • I signed up recently and am new to the operations of this website. The question is something I was recently intrigued by and would like to debate it with another person to learn more.

    Against

    • The end, I guess.
    • Pro does not eppear to have any intentions of continuing this debate.
  43. 1943.

    The popes have an economic left bias

    For

    • there's a difference between theory and practice. what you are talking about is the hypocritical nature of the popes, the practice. i am clearly referring to what the popes teach in theory... in that regard, liberal.
    • pope quotes Quote "Private property does not constitute for anyone an absolute or unconditioned right. No one is justified in keeping for his exclusive use what he does not need, when others lack necessities" You are not making a gift of your possessions to the poor person. You…

    Against

    • There is a difference between theory and practice.Clearly, as I have listed out their actual wealth and investments, and my opponent has listed a series of quotes around a philosophy not followed by actual popes, I have demonstrated practice while my opponent has victim to…
    • Bankers' best guesses about the Vatican's wealth put it at $10 billion to $15 billion. Of this wealth, Italian stockholdings alone run to $1.6 billion, 15% of the value of listed shares on the Italian market. The Vatican has big investments in banking, insurance, chemicals,…
  44. 1944.

    Creationism's claims are valid

    For

    • Since I agree with Con, in general, this is quite difficult to argue. The only thing I can say, to sum this up; All the data, evidence, is the same. The difference is in the results, conclusions, or interpretations. Even though the creationists position, to us, seems illogical,…
    • I enjoyed your argument Con, well done. This is not natural for me, but I'll see how well I can do. I would like to point out that the debate topic is simply "Creationism's Claims Are Valid" with creationism being defined as "The universe and living organisms originate from…

    Against

    • Thanks for that response Pro. Pro says: 1. "The universe and life came about through divine acts." My response: If the universe and life came about through divine acts, why are these divine acts contingent on natural processes? Why does something divine need natural processes…
    • Thanks for taking the debate Pro. I have two problems with Pro's arguments. 1. Pro did not argue for the validity of "specific acts of divine creation," and instead argued for inaccurate "natural processes." 2. Though the words "originate" and "create" are similar in meaning,…
  45. 1945.

    The Holy Spirit is real

    For

    • I will split Round 4 into three parts on my behalf. First I will rebut what you said, second rebuttal of your videos, third will be my conclusion. PART 1 1a. If someone had been supposedly abducted by aliens would you believe it if there were over 5 witnesses all saying the…
    • This round is all rebuttals: "...But I can't prove to you I saw a ghost regardless if you saw one too at another time, in another place. I can't prove to you aliens exist regard if you believe it or not." You cannot feel or experience aliens or ghosts, because according to the…

    Against

    • I believe Pro believes her stuff but doesn't know how express them with dynamic clarity. As I continue to debunk her resolution I will also show her own debating confusion she caused.A. "The debate has been particularly a waste of time and I didn't appreciate my opponent's…
    • 1. You cannot feel or experience aliens or ghosts... all unlike the Holy Spirit therefore irrelevant to the subject.1a. Pro is playing semantics. If someone claims they've been abducted & probed by aliens, the physical element is in play. I'm not arguing alien abductions are…
  46. 1946.

    Witchcraft is distinct from satanism

    For

    • As a Wiccan, the topic of witchcraft is near and dear to my heart. I aggravates me to no end to hear people call witches "devil worshipers" and to see then explode with hatred whenever they see something like the pentagram (which has no connection to any religions "devil"). If…

    Against

    • I think that this debate was a waste of time since my opponent has forfeited all the rounds. Anyways thanks for everything.
    • This will be my final argument since my opponent has forfeited all the rounds. I have pretty much posted truth saying that witchcraft is tied into sadistic belief. I do understand that it is true that not all is tied into sadistic belief but that is how witchcraft was started.
  47. 1947.

    The evidence for a global biblical flood is convincing

    For

    • How certain are you? Because it doesn't say how long Noah had to build the Ark or check all of the animals or any tools to check the animals so what you've just said so far is quite ludicrous to be honest. Again most of the water probably came from underneath the earth also…
    • Genesis 7:11 In the six hundredth year of Noah's life, in the second month, the seventeenth day of the month, the same day were all the fountains of the great deep broken up, and the windows of heaven were opened. And by the fountains of the deep it means the water underneath…

    Against

    • I am certain that Noah didn't take the time to check the animals for diseases for he had no tools or time to do so. Animals can have diseases that are not superficial. I used Mt. Everest as a reference point to display how fast the rain had to fall. The current atmospheric…
    • and as believer would say, in those upcoming events, that is when Noah built the ark, saving all of the animals 2 by 2. Now, if you delve deeper, you can see that this argument is flawed if you take into account other biblical happenings. For instance, diseases can survive in…
  48. 1948.

    The Mahabharata and Ramayana should be read literally

    For

    • go back home you sand monkey

    Against

    • Hope someone sees this and votes for me
    • Well I guess he was troll. So I will keep myself to my first argument. His account has been deactivated.
  49. 1949.

    Predestination is true for every person

    For

    • Thank you for accepting my argument and as another brother in Christ I hope we dont fight to much over theology when are real focus is saving others not to say that theology is not important though that is why there must be debates and arguments about matters that are facing…
    • Romans 9:10-19 10 Not only that, but Rebekah's children had one and the same father, our father Isaac. 11Yet, before the twins were born or had done anything good or bad—in order that God's purpose in election might stand: 12not by works but by him who calls—she was told, "The…

    Against

    • I am disappointed that my opponent has failed to post a closing statement. As I indicated, it seemed that the opponent made a statement and asked for my opinion, which I complied with.
    • I am a little bit fuzzy on your purpose in proposing this debate. In actuality, I only took up your offer because you asked my opinion on the meaning of a certain biblical quote. As such, I really didn't see it as being a debate. The title of the debate would be hard to…
  50. 1950.

    Churches should be allowed to operate gambling businesses

    For

    • Thanks for that, Tyson. I suppose what you are saying is that Christians are supposed to invest their money in a high yield private equity fund rather than go down the bookies and punt it all on a rank outsider in the 3.15 at Newmarket? Well, that may be wise advice but…
    • The churches are always moaning about falling church attendances and dwindling revenues and it is certainly true that churches have been haemorrhaging customers for years (1). Furthermore, with the demographics of the current congregations being so overwhelmingly dominated by…

    Against

    • The gambling industry is immoral. "Gambling has a bad effect on society. It promotes crime, as those who lose their money steal to get more, or get drunk to drown out their sorrow. It contributes to greater poverty, as those who cannot afford to gamble do so anyway. It leads to…
    • "Dishonest gamble money dwindles away, but he who gathers money little by little makes it grow.' Proverbs 13:11

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