Open debating club

One topic, two positions and the question of which side has the stronger arguments: Welcome to the second edition of our debating club!

After a successful first debate evening in spring, we are now entering the second round! Once again we want to show you: Debating clubs have nothing to do with elite British universities and wood paneling; instead, they follow a simple principle to exchange arguments: The participants of the club are divided into two groups (pro and con) by drawing lots. They then debate, not discuss. What's the difference? It's not about right or wrong, but solely about the persuasiveness of the stronger argument. So that nobody has to be afraid, here are the answers to the most pressing questions:

• What topics are being debated? Anything that concerns our society is possible: from the introduction of a four-day week to minimum qualifications for politicians and the question of whether there should be compulsory voting in Germany. We prepare different topics, you vote democratically on them locally.
• And if I don't know my way around a topic? Don't panic. To ensure that everyone is well prepared, each debate round begins with a short research session (so don't forget your cell phone or tablet).
• Does everyone always debate? Depending on how many people take part in the debating club, some people may watch the other debating teams' exchanges as spectators and vote at the end on which arguments they found most convincing. After each round, there is a changeover so that everyone can actively participate in the debate.
• Why should I take part? Because debating together not only trains your own rhetoric, but also helps you to empathize with other people and strengthen your empathy for other positions.

So come along and debate with us!

By and with the neuland & gestalten team