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Short History

Debating societies emerged in London in the early eighteenth century, and soon became a prominent fixture of national life. The origins of these societies are not certain in many cases, although by the mid-18th century, London fostered an active debating society culture. Debating topics covered a broad spectrum of topics while the debating societies allowed participants from both genders and all social backgrounds, making them an excellent example of the enlarged public sphere of the Age of Enlightenment. Debating societies were a phenomenon associated with the simultaneous rise of the public sphere, a sphere of discussion separate from traditional authorities and accessible to all people, that acted as a platform for criticism and the development of new ideas and philosophy

Debate is a process that involves formal discussion on a particular topic. In a debate, opposing arguments are put forward to argue for opposing viewpoints. Debate occurs in public meetings, academic institutions, and legislative assemblies, It is a formal type of discussion often with a MODERATOR and an audience, in addition to the debate participants.

This group is for those who enjoy reading, talking and learning(for me the basis of debate), and want to brush up on their ideas and presentation skills. We Have three formats that we use, first format is that we choose a topic/question, and then we ask two members to go away, research the chosen topic/question then come back and each give up to a 10 minute presentation of their response. Then the other members present at the meeting can respectfully question and debate their responses. Second called At The Drop Of A Hat, which is that we pull questions out of a hat which have been previously submitted by debators and then discuss and thirdly a Debator chooses a topic, does a presentation and then we discuss.......I will hasten to add, my reasoning behind this group is not only to develop my own skills, but also to show/learn that it is possible for people to have opposing views and still effectively communicate and move forward together despite differing views. The topics will be varied to suit all tastes and I look forward to many suggetions from the group itself. Hope to see you soon

Roy

Groups near Maidstone, G5