WHY SHOULD YOU DEBATE?

Areebah Bint Ayaz

Debating is an activity that brings forth the art of reading, thinking and speaking collected in
one dwelling. The activity is a discussion led by formal rules to examine ideas and persuade
people with one’s viewpoint. We are constantly debating with peers around us; therefore, it
is with certainty that the skills and experiences gained from participating in intellectual
dialogue hold immense value in today’s world. I would like to cover two points that
symbolize why I like to debate, and why you should too.
The essence of discourse revolves around convincing others that your proposed model or
idea is most suitable for the given circumstances. How will you be able to persuade the
judge and an audience of your stance if you cannot convince yourself first? This brings us to
the first core reason - it is a game of self-confidence.
One can tremendously boost their confidence by participating in debates. But before we
delve deeper, we must understand how people gain self-confidence. Some may say
knowledge of a specific topic gives them confidence because they can handle tough
questions and answer with relevant pieces of information. Others may rely on the countless
hours of practice they have completed beforehand. Regardless of your confidence
production mechanism, deconstructing arguments and presenting ideas with conviction will
surely contribute to an increased level of confidence in your daily activities.
Although debating is rigorous, thoughtful and intellectually challenging it gives people a
voice. A voice used as an outlet for the proposal of revolutionary ideas and policies - a voice
used to better the world. Debating provides a platform for those who have the potential to
change the world through creative solutions and comprehensive policies.
In March of 2019, I judged several debates in Round One of the World Scholars Cup, Dubai. I
witnessed passionate speakers that knew what to say, how to say it, and when to say it. The
experience reminded me that consensus is not just an end goal of a debate, but the very
essence of it. The young debaters respected each other’s viewpoints and successfully
identified points of contention; they were not ruthless but instead kind.
I am pleased to see that the ideas of our future leaders are built on a foundation of harmony
and tolerance. I like to be involved in debates because I can experience moments like these.
But we should all bear in mind that individual interests differ from one to another.