Jeremy Keeshin

English Debates: Listening Assignment

I listened in on the debate for the resolution: Gay marriage undermines the
institution of marriage between the Affirmative, Erika and Lisa versus the Negative,
Sarah and Mackenzie. The areas of clash and points of dispute consisted mostly of the
arguments over stability of marriage, equal rights, and interpretation of the bible. The
side that was able to more effectively argue there case was the Negative because it
showed how the institution would remain strong and not be undermined by gay marriage.
The most compelling evidence brought up by the negative side was that marriages
between heterosexual couples that cannot procreate are still allowed, while marriages
between homosexuals are not allowed, and that creates an unfair double standard. This
overrode the opposition’s argument that marriage was based in the sole purpose of
reproduction. Also a persuasive argument by the negative was that heterosexual
marriages often end in divorce, and homosexual relationships would bring more stability
to the institution of marriage because it is more about the relationship. The delivery for
both sides was similar, and at times during the cross examination, the sides laughed, but it
did not take away from the debate.