Deny Ignorance: debates are back!

[Maxmars]

We are especially grateful for the opportunity to launch our first Deny Ignorance debate!

In short order we will begin.

We must however discuss protocol, which in all cases are subordinate and in addition to the Deny Ignorance Terms and Conditions, which means if you break the T&C will likely be declared in forfeit.

The entire structure of a Deny Ignorance debate creates a focused dialog, affirming or rejecting a proposition.  Each participant will follow a pattern of posts that respect certain boundaries.
 

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When making the opening post – Each member defines the topic in their own words, and proposes their position. Debaters should not directly question their opponent. No links to outside sources are allowed.  There should be no graphic images or media.

The second, third, and fourth set of posts will consist of each participant expanding upon their position, developing their tone, and making an argument. Questions to the adversary are allowed, as are links (no more than two please in any post.) Embedded graphic images are allowed but they must be properly attributed… which still counts as part of the word count.

The fifth (closing) post may include any direct answers, and a summary of their argument, but no links are allowed.

Random staff will be judging the body of the debate and after consultation and consensus, a winner will be declared.

In this debate all post will be limited to 800 words. Each entire link counts as a single word.  Each participant has 24 hours to respond to their opponents post.

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That’s pretty much it for the rules, but a word about ‘rules:’

We are not robots.  Sometimes life won’t be deterred, things happen…

While under normal circumstances missing a deadline, failing to respond in time, is grounds to forfeit a debate; if both debaters agree they can persuade the host to forgo declaring an ‘automatic’ forfeiture of the debate.

However, the judges always have the final word.

Stay tuned for the topic and participants of the first debate... hopefully very soon to follow.

[Maxmars]

In deference to aesthetic form, I will create a separate and new thread to contain our very first debate....


I'm so excited!


 

   

  

   

[IdeomotorPrisoner]

This is a fun argument already. Post being put together now. Great opening topic too. Ready to participate in an argument that's most impossible to spiral into left/right oblivion!!

[putnam6]

This is a fun argument already. Post being put together now. Great opening topic too. Ready to participate in an argument that's most impossible to spiral into left/right oblivion!!

Im enjoying the diversion already, and yes this a topic that is above the LEFT/RIGHT paradigm. 

Opening salvo has been posted

[Maxmars]

I have seen both first posts.... this is going to be great!

[putnam6]

I enjoyed this immensely, and I highly suggest DI members sign up and participate.

perhaps the best part, for me atleast, is it made me read AND not skip over parts but comprehend the reasoning behind the opposing view. In other words, it expanded my perspective even though I still support my original thoughts.