What is the structure of a debate?

The structure of a debate, as explained by Tim Ferriss and his guest Ann Miura Ko on the Tim Ferriss Show, typically follows a standardized format with specific roles and timings for each participant. Here's a breakdown of the typical debate structure:

1. Resolution Announcement: The topic or resolution to be debated is announced, often with a philosophical element. Examples might include "The principle of majority rule ought to be valued above the principle of minority rights."

2. Initial Presentations:

   • Affirmative Case: The affirmative side begins by presenting arguments in support of the resolution.
   • Cross-Examination: The negative side then cross-examines the affirmative, asking questions based on their arguments.

3. Negative Case:

   • The negative side presents its case, opposing the resolution and rebutting the points made by the affirmative.
   • Cross-Examination: The affirmative side cross-examines the negative.

4. Rebuttals and Closing Arguments:

   • Both sides give rebuttals to address the arguments presented by the opposition.
   • The affirmative side typically has the final rebuttal followed by closing statements from both parties, with speeches getting progressively shorter.

Judgments are made based on these presentations, examining both the logical consistency of the arguments and sometimes the presentation style, depending on the audience (e.g., parent judges vs. experienced coaches) 1 2.