The Art of Debate

Contrary to popular belief and what we see in real life, a debate is not a competition of who can get louder or more aggressive.

A debate is defined as a formal discussion on a particular matter within a particular context, in which the sides involved argue for or against the matter at hand, that usually ends with a vote.

The key to a good debate is “listening”. Listening in a debate allows for both sides to understand and internalize one another’s arguments, in order to refute in a logical and relevant manner. Arguments based on a factual base rather than emotions are more powerful and appealing to audience interest and intellect. None of the presented arguments in a debate are an absolute truth, thus both perspectives should be accepting of opposition and disapproval.

Political debates in which candidates become aggressive usually make for good TV and ratings, but they fail to fulfill the criteria for a healthy productive debate because they do not stimulate voter interest or educate their voters. As a result, they often score low on the voters’ assessment of the their intellect and morals.

What is said in a debate is only a small percentage of the message received. 55% of the message or impression sent comes from body language, which includes hand gestures, eye contact, and tone of the voice. The body reveals what words fail to deliver.