The Department of Philosophy

 

"No cause is left but the most ancient of all, the one, in fact, that from the beginning of our history has determined the very existence of politics, the cause of freedom versus tyranny."

 

~Hannah Arendt

DEBATE AT EDGEWOOD COLLEGE


THE EAGLES DEBATE TEAM

The Eagles Debate Team is Edgewood College’s only competitive debate team. We focus on parliamentary debate (both World’s and National Parliamentary Debate Association formats), the fastest growing debate form in the United States. In parliamentary debate the topic changes each round, and debaters argue for both value arguments (e.g. “Healthcare is a moral imperative”) and policy debates (e.g. “The United States should change course in Afghanistan”). Teams of two then establish either a Government (for the motion) or an Opposition (against the motion) position on the motion and defend that position throughout the round. Parliamentary debate emphasizes a broad liberal arts education and thinking on your feet to make thoughtful, substantive arguments.

ACTIVITIES

In debate at Edgewood College you will have the opportunity to travel to different schools for nationally sponsored debate tournaments and regional scrimmages. Over the last five years members of the Eagles Debate Team have attended tournaments at Northern Illinois University, Wheaton College, and Loyola University. We have also participated in debate scrimmages with Marquette University, Ripon College, and Lakeland College, held public on-campus debates, and debate regularly in our weekly meetings. This semester we are experimenting with mock trial. Students can take debate for two credits, one credit, or just for fun.

WHO CAN JOIN?

Debate is open to any Edgewood College student from any major. Prior debate experience is not necessary. Our regular practices are Friday afternoons from 4:00 to 6:00 in Predolin 306.

THE BENEFITS OF DEBATE

Debate has been recognized as a fundamental part of a liberal arts education throughout the history of the liberal arts. This represents an unbroken tradition going back well over two thousand years. Debate promotes critical thinking, public speaking, research skills, and a broad knowledge base: in sum a well-rounded, liberal arts education. But above all debating with friends, organizing events, and traveling with the team is just plain fun.

For more information contact Dr. Daniel Mortensen,
dmortensen@edgewood.edu, 663-3403, Steve Simons (SSimons@edgewood.edu) or just show up to a meeting.