The Debater's Guide, Fourth Edition

Contents

ix Contents Preface xi 1. The Value of Debate 1 The Advantages for Society 1 The Advantages for You 2 2. Understanding the Process 6 The Proposition 6 Ground Rules for Debating 9 Sequence of Speeches 10 Time Limits 11 The “Clash” Process 12 The Prima Facie Case and the Debate Clash 14 Budgeting Time in the Clash Process 16 Speakers’ Duties 17 Understanding the Debate Process 18 3. Underlying Concepts for Case Building 20 The Problems of Proof 20 The Three Burdens 22 Structural Elements 24 4. Research and Reasoning 29 Acquiring Knowledge 29 A Comment on Purchased Evidence 35 Developing Proof 36 5. Constructing Affirmative and Negative Cases 45 Constructing the Affirmative Case 45 Constructing the Negative Case 59 The Stock Cases 63 x Contents 6. Speakers’ Responsibilities in Presenting the Debate 67 Constructive Speeches 68 Rebuttal Speeches 73 Tracking the Clash of Arguments 76 7. Refutation and Defense 79 The Purpose of Refutation 79 Methods of Direct Refutation 81 Common Errors in Reasoning 84 Summary of Principles of Direct Refutation 86 Organization 86 Defense against Rebuttal 89 Word Choice in Refutation 90 Seven Guiding Principles 92 8. Cross-Examination 94 Goals 95 Types of Questions 99 Answering Questions 101 Applications 102 9. Effective Presentation 105 Verbal and Nonverbal Factors 105 Special Problems in Delivery 113 Epilogue: The Ideal Debate Speaker 118 Glossary 121 Index 127 ...