LESSON II

WHAT DEBATE IS


I. The forms of argumentation:
1. Written.
2. Oral.

II. The forms of oral argumentation:
1. General discussion.
2. Debate.

III. The qualities of debate:
1. Oral.
2. Judges present.
3. Prescribed conditions.
4. Decision expected.

Now, since we have decided upon a definition of argumentation, let us
see what we mean by the term "debate" as it will be used in this work.

We have said that argumentation is the art of producing in the mind of
someone a belief in something in which we wish him to believe.

Now it is obvious that this can be accomplished in different ways.
Perhaps the most common method of attempting to bring someone to
believe as we wish is the oral method. On your way to school you meet
a friend and assert your belief that in the coming football game the
home team will win. You continue: "Our team has already beaten teams