Society Debate Topics — page 26
1,516 debate topics, all ages. Debatable motions with arguments for and against. Open the arguments below, pick one at random, or present them full-screen.
- 1251.
Conspiracy theories are damaging to our society
For
- My opponent attempts to refute my claim that civilized governments engage in torture by pointing to this example and claiming it as a conspiracy theory. As he has used George Bush's administration as an example I will focus on this issue as it provides me the opportunity to…
- My premise is simple, I Believe that the prevalence of conspiracy theories expounded online and across Facebook are damaging to our society. This is because these theories distract from the real issues our world is facing and regardless of the veracity of these claims without…
Against
- ! !
- Extended
- 1252.
Americans should work harder rather than slack
For
- I am afraid my opponent is being complacent. Merely asserting "We are "Merica" is not enough to stop foreigners eating Americans" lunch. Unless Americans buck their ideas up quickly I forecast it won't be long before hordes of Mexican savages swarm across the border into the…
- Americans only work 1,790 hours a year, even though the USA is the only developed country not to have the right to annual leave enshrined in law meaning that they work more days per year than other Western nations. (1) Compare that to the sombrero and poncho-clad,…
Against
- Americans work hard enough. After all, we are the best country out there. Finally, WE ARE 'MURICA!
- It would be good if mexicans take our jobs because the Muricans wont need to work.
- 1253.
Athletes are paid more than teachers to maintain the status quo
For
- Professional athletes are paid higher salaries than teachers and doctors because they serve to maintain the status quo. Their roles are considered to be more valuable in that they serve as distractions and offer escapism to the masses. I often hear people complain about…
- .. "I did not 'concede' SQ as my opponent claims, but rather I've decided. .. (I accept my opponent's late definition of status quo), and I do not dispute that corporations and corporate interests exist only within some capitalistic frame. .. "As Con has previously accepted the…
Against
- Catapulting Carcasses - the Status QuoI'm not understanding my opponent's complaints. My opponent has not made explicit arguments as to whether or not the status quo is what he defines it to be, and I've made no arguments to reject his definition (given round 2). If anything,…
- Taking Up Folding Chairs.I did not 'concede' SQ as my opponent claims, but rather I've decided to argue under the hypothetical that the status is what my opponent defines it to be (redundant given the definition of SQ). I more or less still have the capacity to argue what…
- 1254.
Millennials are more narcissistic than previous generations
For
- Well Done! True -- you are digital natives! I concede!!! (and not just because of the whole diego thing!)
- I think you make a valid point. I still don't feel convinced that Generation Me (that's your generation) has what it takes to become Generation We. A study comparing the same age groups of three generations concluded the following: " Millennials were less likely than Boomers…
Against
- I win
- I agree we may have a weakness in politics and caring about politics but many studies show that we are far better in the workplace. A research done my CompTIA showed this: "Millennials are far more likely than Boomers to seek out training and career development, to tout their…
- 1255.
The US federal government should pay reparations to African Americans
For
- Ok well I won't bother putting the other arguments I had planned to make in here because my opponent unknowingly conceded the debate. He misconstrues African Americans for ALL African Americans, which he says is implied, but truly is not. If I say "The US should take in…
- Thanks for accepting! I planned to write more but sense we have 2 rounds after this and I'm unexpectedly very busy I'll just start out with this:Justice (Giving each their due) demands that we give reparations to African Americans. For centuries African American's have…
Against
- Thank You I do not deny that some African Americans have been oppressed. If this argument said "the government should pay financial reputations for some African Americans, then I would have agreed with Pro. However that is not what it said. It said "African Americans." This…
- Hello Thank you for debating with me, I look forward to hearing what you have to say.
- 1256.
Women are superior to men
For
- Even in the bible GOD created Adam first, and told him that he should be in control of everything on earth. Even science has proven that men are superior then women.
- In my personnel opinion Men are and will always be superior then women no matter what.
Against
- The Bible and it's stories are irrelevant to a debate unless you can prove that the stories were real. "Even science has proven that men are superior then women". Proof ? Source ? Until you get proof, both genders will remain equal
- In my opinion, men and women are both equal.
- 1257.
People should not be given names at birth
For
- >Thanks to my opponent, Logical-Master, for his response. >I shall not say anything more on the topic of semantics except that my opponent blatantly used semantics to try to deflect my comment. >My opponent goes back to his burden of proof argument, which is semi-valid. I do…
- .. sort of. .. >My opponent has begun to play semantics with me. I do not know whether this is a test or some other sort of idea but I can still refute it and shall do so. As my opponent say, I am in favor of those who are very young not having the abilities to make large…
Against
- First, in response to PRO suggesting that I have played semantics . . . . . . I have "played" no semantics, ladies and gentleman. My opponent's statement had conflicted with his statement on the same matter in the previous round. In addition, I explained why there was still a…
- First, ladies and gentleman, I'd like you to take note of the words from my opponent in his previous round. He said the following: "Now this is obviously because the baby cannot make decisions like that at such a young age but they can remain unnamed until they can truly make…
- 1258.
Rural areas are more beneficial to society than urban areas
For
- I think most of the successful people in the world are from rural areas. Despite being poor, they are capable of doing much better than people of urban areas. The people in urban areas are very lazy because they get everything in just a blink of their eye. This makes them unfit…
- Hmm... When talking about 1 km. of rural area over 1 km. of urban area, I think then also rural areas are more beneficial. There is a lot of pollution in urban areas at every corner I guess.. At contradiction, rural areas serve us with fresh environment. My opponent said that…
Against
- You say that most successful people in the world are from rural areas. While this may have been true hundreds or even decades ago, it is not true today. In urban areas there are schools, a large producer of successful people. People in urban areas do not get "everything in just…
- Voters, I suggest you vote for me due to lack of sources and correct grammar offered by my opponent. None of his/her points offers any scientific evidence as all. 1km of of rural areas do not exactly provide us with massive amounts of oxygen while cities create scientists,…
- 1259.
Society is too rude to people with learning difficulties
For
- Nothing else to say... Vote for me, please!
- La la la laa... Vote my side please. (Pro!) I'll sit here and twiddle my thumbs, I suppose...
Against
- my argument is this people who should release that these people do have rights like us . to live get married
- 1260.
Individuals have a duty to address social problems
For
- So to my understanding we should whip out a lawyer or head straight to court every time we see a wrongdoing happen? If you or I witness a teenage brawl should we step in? If someone is being murdered or raped what I get from your response is we as a society should stand by,…
- Are you for or against Individual Social Responsibility?A few examples would be... If someone is abusing their child in public should you take individual responsibility and step in or show a blind eye? If you saw someone getting beat up in a park should you step in or call the…
Against
- When Congress and the president negotiated over welfare reform in 1996, a key element of the debate was whether government aid should continue to be an entitlement, a grant the poor receive solely by virtue of being poor.Ultimately, the bill that passed last August changed…
- I do not like Individual Social Responsibility, people should be able to get a lawyer or another family member to help defend them.
- 1261.
Parents should be required to obtain a license
For
- 1. CON's math contains many false assumptions. The assumption that the $5.70 return for every dollar spent is "only applicable in households where child abuse occurs" is untrue. "Every $1 spent on a home visit" includes both households with and without child abuse. Another…
- Licensing parents would reduce traumatic childhoods, promote parenting standards, and be cost effective. CON is worried about tax payer dollars. See in PRO's round 2 speech the evidence for how spending the money to prevent child abuse saves tax dollars in the long run. CON…
Against
- Pro makes several mistakes in his argument which I will elaborate on here. "The assumption that the $5.70 return for every dollar spent is "only applicable in households where child abuse occurs" is untrue. "Every $1 spent on a home visit" includes both households with and…
- Pro's arguments fail in two different ways.1. Not cost effective (Get out your calculators!)Pro gives a fair statistic that the average home visit produces $5.70 for every $1 spent. This return; however, is only applicable in households where child abuse occurs, and the benefit…
- 1262.
Western literature's depictions of Africa are not harmful
For
- Essentially the con argument is that western media and literature causes a sort of "disaster porn" that causes people to become desensitized to the situation at hand- otherwise known as compassion fatuige: this is destructive. However, at this point I disagree. I do not think…
Against
- Go ahead for round 3 - we'll just make this a 2-round debate instead of 3, round 2 doesn't count - you were busy... ... .. .
- It is not that the depictions are a misconception - it is that they cause negative results. Even if EVERY SINGLE claim made by the Western media about Africa's problems are true, it is still destructive because the literature only focuses on the negative, and not the positive.…
- 1263.
Modern society has made people slaves to conformity
For
- Before I start I want to define these terms and make sure that we agree. Conformity: conformity [kənˈfɔːmɪtɪ], conformance n pl -ities, -ances 1. compliance in actions, behaviour, etc. , with certain accepted standards or norms 2. correspondence or likeness in form or…
- jkhklh
Against
- Definition is fine, and I understand what you mean by slaves in a figurative sense. My definition was conceptually the same, so I guess we are agreeing on that for starters. Today my burden is to prove that society today is a slave to conformity My first two points that I will…
- Title says it all, My BOP is that we have not become slaves to conformity, I will be arguing that we, in fact, have progressed to become less following and more leading. Ok, I posted this debate about a month ago, only to have my opponent forfeit every round. (therefore I may…
- 1264.
The American Dream is no longer achievable
For
- Thank you blaze8 for acceoting this debate! Now for my arguments.According to the most latest figrues from the U.S. Census Bureau, 49.2 percent of Americans are getting benefits from at least one government program.[1]The US government has spent 3.7 trillion dollars on welfare…
- Hello to whoever my opponent is.The first round is acceptance, in the second round I precent my arguments and you rebutt them.Thank you.
Against
- First, I would like to say that Pro's points are correct, at least, regarding the specific statistics involved. However, I think it is more important to first define the American Dream. What is the American Dream? Is it to make more money? Is it to work a 9-5 job until…
- I'll accept it. Bear with me, its my first debate on this site. Good luck to us both!
- 1265.
Humanity is nearing an apocalypse of mass global destruction
For
- The United States is in debt and has a weak president that has made every effort to solidify and expound upon that debt. Most of that debt is owed to China. Although the Chinese presently depend upon US economy to sustain their economy, the US is so indebted to them that they…
- Albert Einstein once said that he had no idea what kind of weapons would be involved in WWIII. However, he was certain that WWIV would be fought with sticks and stones. There are many signs that WWIII is nearly upon us. ISIS, Russian aggression, Chinese aggression, Iran nearing…
Against
- Well, there you have it.
- The reason the apocalyptic devastation would need to be nuclear is because this would be by far the most likely type of destruction to cause mass global destruction due to the lasting pollution it leaves behind. This pollution would ensure the inability of civilizations to…
- 1266.
Advertisements should not target children
For
- Hey guys! This will be a 4-round debate, where the 1st round is just detailed by the Con 'accepting' the debate. I will be debating the Pro side :) 2nd Round is where Aff states the case and the conclusion will be in the 4th round (a.k.a the third speaker of a 3v3 debate). Good…
- So in the final part of this debate, there have been a number of key themes that have been echoed throughout the debate, the key themes that both sides wish to win in order to win this debate. 1. The theme of implications arising from advertising, that advertising negatively…
Against
- I was someone disappointed that some of my argument are not fully countered. Many are countered, but not fully. This is the whole thing that I have been trying to point out since Round 2: >Advertising is bad. It will gives bad effect to mature aged person and children. Instead…
- I shall point out flaws in Pros argument: *** My argument: -'exposing children to advertisement because it is impossible to prevent' Pros counter-argument: -'Let us move on to a common case prevalent in state schools all around the world: Bullying. It is undeniable that…
- 1267.
Women should have equal legal rights
For
- also, you are arguing that no, should women have rights. that is not an actual resolution. allahu akbar
- my computer is made in china. you r too triggered. and you r an ignorant swine for getting triggered at a troll. all of the worlds problems are because of whites.l you caused the worlds deadliest wars. you made the worlds deadliest weapons. allahu akbar explosion.
Against
- | My previous attempt at putting this up was reply-bombed by somebody who "accidentally" entered the debate without any intension of competing. | Right. Keep in mind, when I say 'rights', I mean the sort of thing, like, the right to work, the right to travel. Those sort of…
- What are you doing on this site?
- 1268.
Arranged marriages should be outlawed
For
- Shame. All my arguments are extended. Arranged marriages violate the United States Constitution and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, two legally binding documents. Therefore, arranged marriages should be an outlawed practice.
- My opponent is excused for lack of knowledge on the laws of the United States, and instead I will argue it on the bases of the laws set forth by the United Nations, of which India is a member. [1] Unfortunately though, my opponent has seemed to disregard the resolution of this…
Against
- I also would regretfully like to inform him that I would not be able to keep the debate confined to the United States of America as it is a general topic and moreover I am an Indian resident and do not know much about the laws of USA . Therefore i 'll speak on this topic in…
- I want the pro to first present his/her argument !!!!!
- 1269.
Governments should give more financial aid to large families
For
- Money is an important factor . Let's look at France in the year 1994 it's fertility rate was 1.66 , but in 2007 it's fertility rate increased to 1.95 for metropolitan France .Because it increased it's aid to big families ( kindergarten , free public transport) and more flexible…
- Most of eastern European countries have a decreasing population and aging population .I think that countries which have a decreasing population should give demographics as high priority as economic growth . If their are less births today that means that in 25 years their will…
Against
- Again, I stated that financial considerations are relevant. However, your initial statement was that government should provide tax breaks and money for families with children. I have already shown from the recent example in Italy that simply throwing money at people does not…
- I will argue that tax breaks or financial incentives will fail to encourage families to have more children. This sort of scheme is already being tried in Italy, but it has not succeeded in motivating couples to have more children than they previously wanted. It has only spurred…
- 1270.
The word 'genius' is overused in everyday speech
For
- "I would have said more, but you put a really horrible character limit on this." I limited the character count because less is more. I was tempted to go with 500... "I was going to analyse what you said in a lot more detail." I'm feeling generous today, so here's your chance.…
- I'd appreciate if you address my other arguments above. You said "genius" = unique to society". First, genius is defined as exceptional creative power- and while this kind of genius is always unique, that doesn't mean that everything that's unique is always genius. Listen to…
Against
- Hey, Hey I love you and all, but you cant say 'I automatically win'. Last time I checked, people vote on who wins, unless you have rigged that. I addressed your point number 2 in round number 3 and point 3 in some other round. There is no theory behind this kind of genius. Its…
- I would have said more, but you put a really horrible character limit on this. I was going to analyse what you said in a lot more detail. And no. You just said it yourself. 'Genius is defined as exceptional creative power'. That Daffy duck play is creative. Who would think to…
- 1271.
Left-side traffic is no better than right-side traffic
For
- " Having to look past another vehicle (if one is oncoming from the opposite direction) is a valid point. However, since both you and the other vehicle are in motion, the other vehicle will be in your way for a split second." And there can't be multiple vehicles? "At the same…
- The right hand rule is of primary importance in extremely low-traffic situations, in which the risk of accident is, similarly, low. In high traffic situations we have stoplights, and it is in high traffic situations that the most danger occurs by far. Further, though you may…
Against
- I will address his points in their order. 1. My opponent says that the right hand rule is used in low-traffic situations and therefore the risk of accident is similarly low. Respectfully, while such intersections might in fact be generally low-traffic ones, this does not…
- I must say I did not anticipate this line of argument. Road rage is indeed a problem when it comes to road safety. It is somewhat unfortunate, however, that my opponent has provided no support whatsoever for his theory. Let us look at some statistics. According to an Internet…
- 1272.
Parents should let their children choose their own careers
For
- Parents know more as they have seen the world. They know more as they have seen life more whereas children know more about the latest trend. Parents should allow their child to follow his or her dream but if they know that the career which they are choosing won't be a bright…
- My knowledgeable opponent have you ever seen this film - 3 idiots. It's a comedy film I agree, but not only to make film humorous but also to make youth to understand. And it totally depends on career. Career is much more that having a job or earning a living. It is a series of…
Against
- I look forward to this debate :) Resolved: parents should allow their children to choose their career on their own. First, some definitions: Children- A young human being below the age of full physical development or below the legal age of majority (18). Parents- A legal…
- I accept your challenge! Good luck and thank you for creating :)
- 1273.
Governments should raise social services for people in poverty
For
- People living in poverty should be assisted more thoroughly by social services because when determining the poverty line there are many aspects that are not looked . P1: such as the way the poverty line is calculated does not keep up to date with the cost of living in specific…
- They need those things as much as they need food and water and shelter those are not luxuries they are requirements now to get to where they want to be, there maybe census on how many houses have those appliances but they did not measure whether those appliances were gift from…
Against
- People living in poverty should not be assisted by social services because when determining the poverty line there are many aspects that are not looked at. P1: Poverty has declined steadily from an estimated 50 percent of the population in 1964 to 19 percent in 1992. P2: For…
- Whether these people struggle to make make the bills every month, or not but still pay the bill, then they are not considered poor. The luxuries they bought could be a gift or purchased, however it still takes money to use them. By working, these people can afford to pay for…
- 1274.
Indian festivals today prioritize money over tradition
For
- I'll accept this argument on the basis that groups, organizations and Governments can spend their money how they want without the oversight of your moral repugnance.
- Why do men seek expensive wedding rings for their wives? Why are vast amounts of money spent on funerals? Why do some people have extravagant birthday parties? My opponent, indeed, has it right. You can have traditions without spending grand amounts of money. My point is merely…
Against
- India is a country with a vast diversity in religions. All kinds of people live here. Diversity in religion means a lot of festivals are celebrated here. This may seem interesting but there is a rumour that these festivals are all about money and no tradition today. This is not…
- As you say that a tradition loses its importance if it is not properly funded, it is not true because as long as the tradition is alive, we don't need to bother its importance because the community which follows that tradition always works to keep it alive. Take for example…
- 1275.
Today's people are spoiled
For
- I agree with the "sense of entitlement." The U.S. has long had the best of everything; however, the newest generations (Generation X, etc.) seem to have this notion that "Who cares? I can live off my parents/friends/other for life." That is not true. Parents and friends,…
- Think about it. My younger siblings spend more than 2 hours watching TV on weekdays; on the weekends, I could swear that is all I see them doing. They whine and complain when told to do something other than that. To me, that is the very definition of "spoiled."
Against
- I agree with the "sense of entitlement." The U.S. has long had the best of everything; however, the newest generations (Generation X, etc.) seem to have this notion that "Who cares? I can live off my parents/friends/other for life." That is not true. Parents and friends,…
- Spoiled can mean that, but it also has other meanings. Perhaps the operative meaning behind all of this is "sense of entitlement" which exists in other cultures. In Scandinavia and southern Scotland/northern England exists this kinda Ku Klux Klan mentality, in which, many, by…
- 1276.
Childcare should be universal and free
For
- a...a
- I hate KSI and here is why:. http://www.youtube.com...I thought about debating this with some idiot who likes him, but I can't be bothered.
Against
- That's just not possible. Some LEDC's such as Ghana or India states cannot afford to pay for childcare but actually have more important things to attend to such as clean water and irradicating poverty. Even in MEDC's it is hard to do this as it can dramatically effect economy…
- 1277.
Kate Middleton should be considered a good role model
For
- My opponent has made has made very valid points but a specific line caught my attention."She was essentially a nobody before" .....I don't know about you but to me this line shows me that you have to marry a prince to be somebody that unless you marry some from a rich family,…
- Many people think Kate Middleton is a good role model... Sure she's pretty but all she wears are expensive clothes, got married to a prince and lost weight only after two months of giving birth. She used to be a size 10 but now in America she's a size zero. In my opinion she…
Against
- It's sad to see my opponent forfeited the final round. Extend out all of my arguments that I've made thus far.
- My opponent continues with the same line of logic that she had in the previous round. Extend out my responses that where my opponent says that she hasn't done anything and wasn't anything special before, but that's exactly what makes her special: she was a nobody before and…
- 1278.
Tomboys are better than regular women
For
- I never said Tomboys can only have platonic friendships. I said they can have a healthy relationship. Most relationships have problems because the guys and girls are almost the opposite, while Tomboys are called tomboys for a reason. They're a girlfriend who you can watch a…
- Alright, I'll admit I generalized a bit. But it has some merit. I used mostly generalizations to back up my arguments, but basically, Tomboys just have so much going for them. Yes, I know not all regular women go for athletic guys, and I also now not all tomboys go for nice…
Against
- I know you never said it, but intentional or not your argument seemed to imply it. "Most relationships have problems because the guys and girls are almost the opposite." Opposite in interests perhaps, but according to a study conducted by the University of Iowa in 2005,…
- All your arguments are based off of generalizations. While there may be some truth to these generalizations, there is also inaccuracy. It is impossible to assign personality traits to any single group of people and be totally accurate. "It is way easier for a guy to chat with a…
- 1279.
Teenagers should not have curfews
For
- Oh sorry double negatives. Children shouldn't have a curfew because it shows that the parent doesn't trust the child. The child could be just hanging out with friends and when they say it is time for them to go the friend may feel left out. Kids that are more troublesome nay…
- Curfews keep teens out of trouble. If teens stay out all night they will more likely to get kidnapped or caused to do or sell drugs. Teens walking out at night could only cause trouble. Curfew is protecting kids from making mistakes that they would do without curfew.
Against
- I stated above that I believe teens SHOULD have curfew.
- I believe teens should have a curfew. No foul words. No expert debaters. Pro may argue first.
- 1280.
Science and technology have made people's lives happier
For
- There are many types of technology like information technology, biotechnology and medical technology. One of the most influential technologies is medical technology. Medical technology is the application of science and technology to improve the management of health…
- Just think about a world without any technology.No phone,No cookers,no internet,no vehicles.Just Think
Against
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- REBUTTALS ====================== 1. ) My opponent begins his argument by saying, "There are many types of technology like information…
- Back to you, pro.
- 1281.
TV and films influence children more than parents do
For
- The resolution was meant to umbrella those who do watch. Most of the households that do not have TV are the ones who cannot afford it, but they often have DVDs to watch. Those who do not have TV nor see films are those who do not own a television set at all, which is notably…
- Thank you for your acceptance, swatters. I will begin my first argument. I would first like to point out that the influences to which children are subjected from television and films are not strictly negative. There are education and nature programs that are beneficial to early…
Against
- Not all households have TV and/or see films, therefore the parents of those households automatically influence the children more than TV/films do. The resolution did not specify if it meant MOST families or just any specific family.
- You may begin forming your argument. I look forward to debating with you.
- 1282.
Marriage is an outdated institution
For
- Frequency and accessibility of divorce undermines the entire purpose of marriage
- Unreasonable commitment to expect of people
Against
- Remarriage rate shows that even people who go through failed marriages retain faith in the institution of marriage
- Marriage promotes a better way to raise children
- 1283.
Affirmative action promotes racism
For
- My opponent contends in round one that affirmative action policy in fact gives a benefit to what I have been referring to as the 'big picture' and uses this contention as the basis for his argument against the proposition. My opponent asks that I support my claim that…
- My opponent argues that affirmative action is used to assist truly disadvantaged persons regardless of race and therefore does not meet the definition of racism presented in round one. To show this my opponent has posted a link to a web page where a man, is asked for and gives…
Against
- Did you really just overtly shift goalposts on the last turn? The first question is, relative to the big picture, how does a significant change in GDP matter in relation to effectiveness of an educational initiative? (hint: it doesn't. ) Fortunately Pro decided to not back that…
- I'm not one for longevity so straight to the points:"The nature of affirmative action programs is such that they cannot provide an opportunity to any person, black or white, without also taking that opportunity away from another person, whether that other person is black or…
- 1284.
Science should play a larger role in shaping society
For
- First stage is for acceptance and first rebuttal. Question: Why does society deny the benefits of Science? i.e. Parents denying their kids vaccination to prevent disease and illness.
- My opponent has forfeited which means he had to argument to counter what I said. I believe I won...
Against
- Question:Why does society deny the benefits of Science?i.e. Parents denying their kids vaccination to prevent disease and illness.Answer:Because the emotionally value of the benefits of science are outweighed by the emotional reward of remaining loyal to their god.
- 1285.
Children should be permitted to hold part-time jobs
For
- Children can use the money.
- They will have the satisfaction of a job well done.
Against
- they don't have time
- children will be exploited
- 1286.
Being overweight is not beautiful
For
- s
- Do you know how to cancel it?
Against
- My opponent has not made the puirpose of this debatte clear.
- Definitons. Fat: the presence of excess fat in a person or animal Beautiful: pleasing the senses or mind aesthetically Links:http: . http://www.oxforddictionaries.com... . http://www.oxforddictionaries.com... The premise of this debatte is wrong : Fat is not beautiful! What my…
- 1287.
Good public transportation is essential for functional cities
For
- My argument is that Public Transportation is necessary...
- Transportation is necessary for a functional city, without a public transportation network roads would be clogged with cars that carry a small amount of people and cause a high amount of pollution. With Public transportation people can travel together to there destination on…
Against
- Public transportation is not necessary on campus. The housing and campus buildings are very close and easily traversed with walking. There are options such as taxis and bus transportation to get around off campus. The downtown and shopping areas are easy to get around, and the…
- Most public transport, planes, trains, boats, buses and trams usually run on fossil fuels (coal, oil or natural gas) that release greenhouse gases (mainly carbon dioxide (CO2)), or by using electricity generated by burning fossil fuels. This is bad for the environment because…
- 1288.
Men and women should not be viewed as the same
For
- I understand your opinion it is one said by many. You believe that the only difference between men and women is physical. But, this is wrong. I believe that men and women are equal, like you, but I realize men and women aren't the same. Aren't same and equal synonymous? No.…
- As gay marriage continues and as schools let boys use girls bathrooms, society is dangerously destroying sex (male and female). Instead people would like to view them as the same which is a flawed way of thinking.
Against
- In what sense are you talking about being "the same"? Gays or physically? I do agree that girls and boys using each other's bathrooms or anything else. I was reading this on article about a girl who worked at Macy's lost her job because she refused to let a transgender man use…
- I do agree with the whole idea of gays shouldn't be considered the gender they wanna be. We don't need to raise our kids in that way. The Bible says homosexuality is an abomination. God doesn't make mistakes, so you WERE born the gender you were supposed to be! However, I don't…
- 1289.
Fighting never solves anything
For
- Sorry for my forfeit. Anyways, I'll start the case again. Nothing is a concept that describes the absence of anything at all (. http://en.wikipedia.org...) Nothing is clearly not anything but rather the absence of anything, so for my opponent to make the claim that is my burden…
- First I will start with definitions Solve: to clear up or explain (a mystery, crime etc) as in that crime has never been solved (http://www.thefreedictionary.com...) Anything: Any object Fighting: is purposeful violent conflict intended to establish dominance over the…
Against
- I will quickly clarify my rebuttal to pro's theory of how nothing appears differently then anythings. My opponents definition of 'anything' is as follows: Anything: Any object. My sourced definition of 'anything'. –pronoun 1. any thing whatever; something, no matter what: Do…
- I will go over my case, then proceed to arguing my opponents. First my opponent says the incident at the weigh-ins between Chuck Liddel, and Wanderlei Silva was not a fight. I don't recall ever saying that was a fight though. That was merely an example of the dis-like the two…
- 1290.
Parents should be responsible for their children's safety
For
- But, it is the parent's responsibility to look out for their children's safety. Furthermore, let me take an example, if my parents didn't take care of me, i wouldn't be sitting here right now. Next, I think natural selection is for animals not for humans because no parents…
- Parents tend to leave their children alone and therefore making the child an easy prey for kidnappers. Furthermore, sharp things are also left unkept causing the children, for example, knives, children age between 1 to 4 years will be curious and start to play with the thing,…
Against
- I win my opponent didn't even bother to show up
- If you say that the parent must be responsible for their child, what you are really endorsing is slavery. You are saying that a parent must be the slave of a child. If you permit this form of slavery, if you force obligations on individuals towards each others, you are really…
- 1291.
Beauty pageants are more harmful than helpful to girls
For
- Thank you for this debate. Here is my conclusion: I have mentioned how beauty pageants are harmful physically and emotionally, but they also damage the relationship between mother and child, and pageant competitors. The child may begin to see her competitors as enemies and this…
- Thank you for accepting my challenge. Beauty contests are criticized by child psychologists as damaging a child's priorities and perceptions. Children who compete in beauty pageants are often between the age of 2 and 10, but they can be even younger. According to psychologist…
Against
- Conclusion Round: Its the choice of every people who join contests and games on how they will win the game and its not the contest's itself that is the reason why some people are fighting over it. Beauty pageants for sure do not require their players to use botox or any kind of…
- The purpose of beauty is pageant is to expose people, particularly women, in their abilities, and see how they look good inside and outside. "A beauty pageant or beauty contest, is a competition that mainly focuses on the physical beauty of its contestants, although such…
- 1292.
If marriage is legal in the US, same-sex marriage should be too
For
- i appologize for even starting my DDO account. i have closed it because of the horrifying conduct from both sides. i will NEVER in a million years convert to xtianity. Poof. i am gone from DDO.
- Thank you, Taylor, for your quick reply. I wish you the best of luck as we advance in the final round.I am going to start off by refuting Taylor's one and only contention. I certainly hope you have more as it is ludacris. It is impossible for same sex couples to procreate with…
Against
- Don't apologize! I hope that my opponent will realize that it's not a big deal and I am also greatly saddened that opponent's heart has been hardened toward Christianity. However, I accept my opponent's forfeit. I extend all of my arguments, and I hope that any Christians out…
- My opponent doesn't seem to understand the point I am trying to make with my arguments, so I will clarify to make sure I can effectively get the message across to everyone. My opponent has said since the beginning of the debate that religious aspects of marriage should not be…
- 1293.
Modern societies are becoming intolerant while claiming tolerance
For
- A healthy democracy requires a decent society; it requires that we are honorable, generous, tolerant and respectful. Charles W. Pickering Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com... In the end analysis can we truly say that we are truly tolerant, a healthy democracy.
- I believe that the more you push people by political means to create a more utopic all tolerant society, the very opposite shall occur. Take the EU for example, "There is no need to be tolerant to the intolerant" " European Framework National Statute for the Promotion of…
Against
- First I would like to state that I agree with most of your points and that in a sense movements such as the gay rights movement are hypocritical. But if the question is are we tolerant I would say yes we are. From this point on, everything stated is from a US point of view of…
- 1294.
The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world
For
- well let me make the grounds of the debate clear---i will speak and try to prove the point the hand that rocks the cradle is the one that rules the world.the other one has to objetc to it and try to prove it wrong......... What an important job a mother has! The mothers of the…
Against
- We're no strangers to love, You know the rules and so do I, A full commitments what I'm thinking of, You wouldn't get this from any other guy. I just wanna tell you how I'm feeling, Gotta make you understand.. Never gonna give you up, Never gonna let you down, Never gonna run…
- Because my opponent did not respond in the alloted time and failed to respond to my rebuttal, it should be concluded that Negative (Con) wins.
- 1295.
Fame should not be so easily accessible
For
- Con has misinterpreted My whole perception of Fame. She has obviously not paid enough attention to see where im coming from. 1:) she said i" people become famous for bieng jackasses" - that was purely an example of extreme entertainment gone to its next level and offending…
- My opponent Firstly starts her argument by giving her brief introduction on what she sees Fame is. My opponent disagrees that you get famous for " anything" she explains to be known in today's society or even briefly recognised you need to be involved with someone who " is"…
Against
- Pro's last round was a joke. She has done absolutely nothing to defend her case or further her argument against mine. In the last round, I outlined Pro's contentions and here is how she responded: First, she agrees, "Yes! We are paying for their fame! " in reference to famous…
- PRO'S ARGUMENTS: 1) People become famous for being jackasses. 2) We're paying - literally - for people's fame. 3) Megan Fox shouldn't compare herself to Angelina Jolie. 4) Fame makes people arrogant. 5) Famous people are critiqued like crazy; this can damage their career. 6)…
- 1296.
English should be the world's common language
For
- Making English a world language would not mean that people or other countries would have to give up their natural languages. It would just mean that it would be the language of business, and trade around the world. It would become the most known second language of people around…
- English is already the primary language used in business, trade, and on the internet. A universal language it would make it easier for businesses and communication around the world. it make sense that the language should be english because a majority of the internet is in…
Against
- You said previously that English is already the standard language for business, etc. If this is all you want it, which you have seems to have said, why are you debating that it should if it already is?
- All though english has certainly become one of the biggest languages around, (Mandarin Chinese is the only language with more speakers as a first language) but it is also a very weird, contorted language that is very hard to master, and words are hard to learn, especially when…
- 1297.
Beauty pageants should be banned
For
- I was the only one who followed the rules and round settings. Therefore opponent has forfeited all points to me. We must ban beauty contests to protect the contestants. They are bad and it hurts the contestants physically and mentally. Please side with me.
- yes. Beauty pageants are really that bad.
Against
- I fail to understand how I have suddenly broken the rules. If you are reffering to me being unable to post my argument and forfeiting round 2, that was never stated in the rules. I was respectful, I provided links and sources, and I definitely had fun! Please side with me!Thank…
- How can we say that "Beauty pageants are really that bad."? Beauty pageants are not bad just because people have taken them to the extreme. A beauty pageant is not necessarily a bad thing. When a contestant enters a beauty pageant and approaches it with a healthy attitude, they…
- 1298.
People should conform to social norms to preserve self-worth
For
- Ok, sure... Now, social prejudice in an utopian world would be less extreme than it exists today. What do you mean by it's not always right? The stereotypes COULD be untrue, but mostly, they are based off of true things and giving people a sense of "well, I can't do this" can…
- I accept. BoP on you.
Against
- I will be more convinced if you can show me proofs and specific examples if you're on the opposite side.
- I personally think that social prejudice is not always right and people should live the way they want no matter what gender they are and do whatever they love to do, as long as they are good people and don't harm others or do anything that affects the society in the bad ways.…
- 1299.
Awareness campaigns are more effective than laws against caste discrimination
For
- Your argument supports neither of the sides.... And secondly, Laws can never cause awareness in people. Some or other way, Laws bound people to do a particular task. By making Laws we can just force or just make people to protect the untouchai. But Educating or awaring people…
- I agree that laws protect them.... But we can't work without our hands. Similarly, laws could do nothing without people, and people would make use of laws only if they are aware of the happenings in the society. Awareness can be created through films, songs, bhajans , talks and…
Against
- You have ignored my point, which is that laws will CAUSE awareness in the people. Therefore, your rebuttal is incorrect, and also, you have admitted that laws protect people when people are aware. Laws make people aware, and people awareness makes laws useful. Also, laws will…
- You say that by changing the mind set is more important. However, most people are already aware. The problem is people need to follow laws. They know the problem about untouchability. The problem is doing, not knowing. Now, onto my case. Yes, I agree that people should be aware…
- 1300.
Hunter-gatherer societies are preferable to agricultural ones
For
- Sorry that I have procrastinated this long, that's just my style. However, before I start my argument, I ask of my opponent this: *** On balance, it would be preferable to live in a prehistoric hunter-gatherer society rather than a prehistoric agricutural one. This is because…
- FULL RESOLUTION:Resolved: On balance, it would be preferable to live in a prehistoric hunter-gatherer society rather than a prehistoric agricultural one.***Definitions:On balance: considering all aspectsPreferable: more desireableTo live: to pass (life)Prehistoric: of or…
Against
- It is unfortunate that my opponent could not make an argument this round.Hopefully next round he can post something.
- My PointsA. Food SurplusWith the coming of agriculture came food surpluses. What this meant is that DESPITE disease and the occasional natural disaster there would always be enough food to keep the population going. Food quantity did not reduce quality because at the very start…
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?