If two people in a group start raising their voices at each other and begin using profanities, that's an argument. if the same two people are talking casually over a cup of tea, that's a conversation. And if these two are seriously contemplating over a matter of relevance, its called a discussion. So what's a debate? Is it the same as the previous three or does it have some different components entailed with it. What makes it different and special? Why do we call it an art? Let's find out.
A debate, as the definition goes, is a formal method of interactive and position representational argument which includes persuasion and appeals to the emotions of an audience regulated under rules which enables people to discuss and decide on their differences. Actually it's a broader form of argument and goes even beyond logical argument as it involves conviction of emotions as well as intellect. One misconception to be dispelled immediately "it is not all about argument"
The word argument too modifies to a different definition in the debating world, where it primarily refers to the point or the idea put forward. It is generally called an argument. For instance: my argument is that public display of affection is unacceptable because….. now, the because entails with it the argument or the point put forward which decides on the value of the debate.
Now, a debate can be of different kinds. It's mainly categorized as informal or formal which are subdivided into different categories. An informal debate is a common occurrence where on casual grounds two groups align voluntarily in opposition or agreement to a particular issue and put forth their arguments, convincing the other party about their stand, but a formal debates works under well regulated rules and guidelines which are to be followed by debaters, such as time limit and format rules. Formal debates too are conducted differently in different scenarios.
A debate in a school differs completely from a debate in a parliament house where the debate is channeled in accordance with the British parliamentary procedures. Extemporaneous debates are also a kind of debating style followed in parliamentary debates sometimes where the speaker doesn't have a pre determined text or argument and puts forth his points in situ with spontaneity. These debates basically focus on the strength of the argument and the creative and logical ability to dodge and strike.
The theoretical explanations do not make a good speaker a good debater. For that the ability to form an opinion and passionate belief in that is vital for conviction. The art of debate is like the sport of fencing where the individuals should be aware of the stances of their opponents and should be mentally prepared with the next strike and dodge process, because one mistake can make you lose all. Calculation is imperative and so is the counter strike. For this a firm belief and concrete facts act as the two vital equipments.
So what should one keep in mind while debating? What are the guidelines to follow for an effective debate?
First of all a clear view of your stand and a strong belief and passion about your arguments are the most important things to keep in mind. For that a firm base of facts, instances and evidence is required which makes the debate all the more effective.
Never personally attack your opponents. Break the point but not the person and for that your own clarity of thoughts and expression play a major role and the moment you slur or show under confidence or get overwhelmed with emotions, you lose half the battle. Be firm, but calm and never raise your voice to the extent of being sounded as offensive.
Listen clearly to your opponents arguments because debating is just not a fight to prove yourself right but it's a process of listening and convincing others about your own beliefs with patience (though that's seldom)
Have faith and confidence on yourself before you go for a debate because a war of guns is way easier than a battle of wits. It requires bundles of self assurance and as I say "anybody can debate, it not an art for me, what you really need to have is belief". So be sure of what you wish to say and voice that out with no restraints.
We all can debate, we all do that each day with our own selves. It's a perpetual conflict we face in our minds, each day of our lives. So we all are efficient debaters but what makes some different from others? That is belief and the aim to effect a change. That is the making of a true man of strength and intellect.
