What is debate? Debate is an essential activity in democratic societies. More than two thousand years ago, when democracy first flourished in Athens, citizens met regularly in public assemblies where their votes determined the policy and the actions of the state. But their votes were always preceded by debate. They argued about what was morally right, legally right, and the best way to achieve a desired outcome.
The upcoming Debate tournament is designed to encourage cooperation and teamwork. Debaters work together in teams and prepare to debate both sides of an issue. Teams debate a topic of contemporary relevance, for example: should human beings be allowed to use other animals as objects of sport and entertainment, etc. The first team, the “affirmative” team, is expected to uphold the resolution by presenting arguments in its favor. The “negative” team is expected to argue against the resolution and to refute arguments offered by the affirmative.
If this sparks your interest, and you want to represent Bilkent University by participating on the Bilkent University Debate Team in The 4th Turkey inter- universities Debate Tournament, which will be held at Karadeniz Teknik University (KATÜ), come and join! For further information and to join contact with Mehmet Kadir Gülen (535 314-0846, mekagu@hotmail.com).