Patterns & Metaphors

Debate

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A formal and highly structured presentation by two teams holding different points of view about an identified issue. Each presenter speaks in turn without immediate response, discussion or interruption, while the audience (described as "the floor") listens. Can be used as a stimulus for Huddle groups, Buzz Groups, and Group Discussion, or as an alternative to a speaker.
Debating procedures: (a) Listen to the expression of the others' views until it is possible to formulate their argument in a way that is acceptable to them. (b) When both parties can do this they then formulate the conditions on which the others' views would be valid. (c) These "dissolving conditions", which tend to dissolve the argument, are then taken by each participant who formulates a concept of how these conditions could actually be determined. (d) The opponents attempt to determine what these conditions actually are.
(e) A matrix showing the different positions and against them, the agreed justifying conditions.
(f) Examination of the errors of judgement that are related and subsequent choice of path.
[Advantages] This process can be a welcomed relief from the strain that synergistic consensus building can impose on a group. It allows and encourages the statement of extremely polarized even polemic arguments in a kind of "dance of disagreement". There is an emphasis on the exposure of weakness in the position of the other side. It can be quite persuasive though those most easily persuaded are usually those who already hold the position that is being advocated. It can help to strengthen the "converted" by increasing their arsenal of effective arguments and developing their skill in presenting their point of view.
[Disadvantages] The focus on "differences" and analytical polarization, can lead to emotionally powerful divisive forces within the group. Form tends to be more important than content and rhetoric tends to preside over reason. It can be very time-consuming, distracting, and conspicuously unproductive. While exhilarating for skilled speakers, it can leave less articulate people intimidated and frustrated, perhaps losing valuable contradictions.