Debate is a process that involves formal discourse, discussion, and oral addresses on a particular collection of topics, often with a moderator and an audience. In a debate, arguments are put forward for opposing viewpoints. Historically, debates have occurred in public meetings, academic institutions, debate halls, coffeehouses, competitions, and legislative assemblies. Debates have also been conducted for educational and recreational purposes, usually associated with educational establishments and debating societies. These debates emphasize logical consistency, factual accuracy, and emotional appeal to an audience. Modern competitive debate also includes rules for participants to discuss and decide upon the framework of the debate (how it will be judged).
The term "debate" may also apply...
Current Images
View on-wiki →
A debate at the Union Club - c1887.JPG
Cicero Denounces Catiline in the Roman Senate by Cesare Maccari.png
A fresco by Cesare Maccari (1840-1919) depicting Roman senator Cicero (106-43 BCE) denouncing Catili...
Debate televisivo Canal 13 CNN.jpg
Debate televisivo del 19 de octubre de 2005 realizado por CNN en Español y Canal 13.
IsaacCruikshank-DebatingSoc.jpg
Isaac Cruikshank, Debating Society (Substitute for Hair Powder). London: Published by Laurie & W...
Married-state-ca1780.jpg
A panegyric on the happiness and "Pleasures of the Married State", published in London ca. 1780. A ...
Mughal43.jpg
President Ronald Reagan and Walter Mondale during the presidential debate on foreign policy in Louisville.jpg
President Ronald Reagan and Walter Mondale During The Presidential Debate on Foreign Policy in Louis...