A debate essentially gives two speakers the chance to speak passionately either for (the proposer) or against (the opposer) a motion (the topic for debate).
Our society follows - relatively loosely - a parliamentary style of debate. After the two main opening speeches, the debate is thrown open to the floor. Typically, contributions from the floor might take 45 minutes to 1 hour. The two main speakers then sum up, incorporating and emphasising relevant points taken from the floor, and a vote is then taken to establish which side has made the most convincing argument either for or against.
Our debates typically last for about one and a half hours. The President (who normally holds office for a year) takes on the role of the Speaker in the House of Commons. At our meetings this involves keeping the debate on track and on time (all speeches are gently time constrained) and policing points of order and information. The President will also chair committee meetings and act as a master of ceremonies for the debate evenings as a whole.
Debating topics range widely - we are as happy to tackle the great issues of the day as eternal moral and social problems - or unashamed whimsy! At our January meeting we modify the format slightly, picking the speakers and the motion from the hat during dinner - this enables highly topical subjects to be discussed, although the speakers are not expected to speak as fully, or as long, as usual.
Of prime importance is that each member always respects one another's views, even when they may disagree with them! No matter how much we take opposing sides during the debate everyone walks out the best of friends afterwards.
The Society is now in its summer recess and the next debate will be in September.
"To be confirmed"
Please use the 'Contact us' section to obtain more information about future debates and how you can attend.
