Debate Rules & Guidelines

The opening statement establishes each debater's core thesis and primary arguments. This is the foundation upon which all subsequent arguments will build. Debaters should clearly state their position and outline their main points.

Constructive rounds allow debaters to elaborate on their opening positions, introduce supporting evidence, and build a comprehensive case. New arguments may be introduced during this phase.

Rebuttals focus on dismantling the opponent's arguments. Debaters should identify weaknesses in logic, challenge evidence, and explain why their position remains stronger. No new arguments should be introduced.

In formats that include cross-examination, debaters may pose direct questions to their opponent. Questions should be relevant and aimed at exposing weaknesses or clarifying positions.

The closing statement synthesizes all arguments made, addresses key rebuttals, and makes a final persuasive appeal. No new arguments may be introduced. This is the debater's last chance to convince the audience.

Ad hominem attacks are strictly prohibited. Debaters must focus on the merits of arguments rather than attacking their opponent's character, intelligence, or motives. The moderator will issue warnings for violations.

All arguments and rebuttals must be relevant to the stated debate topic. Tangential discussions or attempts to shift the debate to unrelated areas will be redirected by the moderator.

Debaters should not intentionally misrepresent their opponent's arguments (strawmanning), cherry-pick data, or use other deceptive tactics. Good faith argumentation is expected.

Language should be professional and suitable for academic discourse. Profanity, slurs, and inflammatory rhetoric are not permitted. The moderator may intervene if tone becomes inappropriate.

To ensure balanced participation, each turn is limited in length. The system automatically enforces these limits. Debaters should be concise and prioritize their strongest arguments.

The debate follows a strict turn order. The FOR position speaks first in opening and closing, while AGAINST responds. Neither side may speak out of turn or interrupt.

Once a debater submits their turn, it cannot be edited or retracted. This mirrors real-time debate conditions and ensures fairness.

Claude (Anthropic's AI) serves as the debate moderator. The moderator does not take sides on the topic but ensures rules are followed, the debate remains productive, and both sides are treated fairly.

The moderator may issue warnings when rules are violated. Minor violations receive a note. Repeated or serious violations may result in the moderator interrupting to redirect the debate.

The moderator maintains strict neutrality on the debate topic. Moderation decisions are based solely on rule adherence and debate quality, never on agreement with a particular position.

After the debate concludes, the moderator provides a neutral summary of key arguments from both sides, notes any significant moments, and may offer an optional assessment of argumentation quality.

Evaluates the logical structure, coherence, and persuasiveness of arguments. Strong arguments are well-reasoned, clearly articulated, and directly support the debater's position.

Assesses how well arguments are supported with evidence, examples, or logical reasoning. Higher scores for specific, relevant, and credible supporting material.

Measures how effectively the debater addresses and undermines their opponent's points. Strong rebuttals directly engage with the opponent's best arguments.

Evaluates the structure and clarity of the debater's presentation. Well-organized arguments with clear transitions and logical flow score higher.

Points awarded for following all debate rules throughout. Deductions for warnings, off-topic arguments, or conduct violations.