7 Elements of Debate You Need to Know, Also Understand the Characteristics and Types

Kapanlagi.com - Watching a debate, whether live or on television, always feels tense. This is because in a debate, two or more individuals with different views are brought together to argue. For example, the presidential and vice-presidential debates always attract attention. Although it has become a common spectacle, not many people know the elements of a debate.

In a debate, participants will fiercely defend their arguments. Now, by knowing the elements of a debate, it will be easier for us to follow and understand the course of the debate. Because following the course of a debate can be said to be challenging. Especially if the debate topic is considered distant and uninteresting to us.

There are several elements of a debate, ranging from the topic to the people involved in it. Well, to better understand what debate is, you can read the following discussion, which has been summarized from various sources.

1. Definition of Debate

(credit: freepik)

In the Indonesian Dictionary (KBBI), debate is defined as a discussion and exchange of opinions about something by providing reasons to defend each opinion. Meanwhile, G. Sukadi defines debate as an activity of arguing between individuals or groups of people with the goal of achieving victory.

Based on the two explanations above, it can be concluded that debate is an activity of arguing conducted by two or more people. Each debate participant must defend their arguments with logical reasons until their arguments win and are accepted.

2. Elements of Debate

As mentioned earlier, debate has several elements. The elements of debate include the topic and the people involved. Debate will run smoothly if these elements are fulfilled. The elements of debate include the following.

1. Motion
Motion is the issue or topic raised in the debate.

2. Affirmative Team
The affirmative team is the team that agrees with the motion.

3. Negative or Opposition Team
The negative or opposition team is the team that disagrees and opposes the motion.

4. Neutral Team
The neutral team is the team that provides arguments from both sides, both in support and opposition to the motion raised.

5. Moderator
The moderator is the person appointed to lead and guide the debate.

6. Debate Participants
Debate participants are individuals or a group of people who have the right to determine the final decision together with the debate jury through the voting or polling process.

7. Writer
The writer in this case is the person responsible for writing the conclusion of the debate.

3. Characteristics of Debate

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Apart from its definition and elements, an activity can be categorized as a debate if it meets several characteristics. The characteristics of a debate are as follows.

1. A debate involves a moderator who directs the discussion.

2. A debate presents two perspectives, namely the pros and cons of an issue.

3. In a debate, there is an exchange of arguments to achieve victory for one side.

4. There is a process of defending arguments between the pros and cons.

5. Usually, a question and answer session is provided between the debaters, guided by a moderator.

6. The conclusion or final result of the debate can be obtained through voting or the absolute decision of the debate judges.

4. Purpose of Debate

Debate has become a common activity. It is not only limited to the level of government leadership elections. Debate is also often used as a learning media. This makes sense because debate has several positive purposes, such as:

1. As a means of practicing argumentation to refute others' opinions.

2. As self-training to adopt a critical attitude and thinking, especially regarding the debated topic.

3. As a practice of courage and confidence in expressing opinions in public.

4. As a means of solidifying understanding of the concepts being debated.

5. Improving the ability to respond to or address a problem.

5. Types of Debates

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In practice, debates are divided into several types. Although they still adhere to the elements of debate, these types of debates have different characteristics. Here are some types of debates.

1. Formal Debate
Formal debates are also known as conventional debates or educational debates. Formal debates are conducted with the aim of giving each pro and contra team the opportunity to present their arguments to the audience or participants of the debate. The arguments presented in formal debates must be logical, clear, and related to common interests.

2. Parliamentary Debate
Parliamentary debates are commonly referred to as assembly debates. Parliamentary debates are usually conducted to support a particular law. In parliamentary debates, each participant has the right to express their opinion with strong reasons. However, it must obtain the approval of the debate assembly first.

3. Examination Debate
Examination debates are held with the aim of determining the truth of the previous examination process. This debate takes place by asking several questions related to the topic of discussion. Therefore, each participant who is given a question can determine whether to support or oppose it.

Those are some explanations about the elements of debate, characteristics, and types of debates. Hopefully, it is useful and can increase knowledge.

Ordinary parliamentary debates are conducted to support a particular law. In parliamentary debates, each participant has the right to express their opinion accompanied by strong reasons. However, they must obtain approval from the debate assembly first.

3. Review Examination Debate
Review examination debates are held with the aim of finding out the truth of the previous examination process. This debate takes place by asking several questions related to the topic of discussion. Therefore, each participant who is given a question can determine whether to support or oppose.

Those are some explanations about the elements of debate, including characteristics and various types of debates. Hopefully, it is beneficial and can increase knowledge.

(kpl/psp)