MEI Debate

FAMOUS FRIDAYS: One of the founders of western philosophy, Socrates is credited with the creation of Socratic debate, a form of dialogue, which is used to stimulate critical, thinking into illuminate ideas

FAMOUS FRIDAYS: In a critical moment in the second 1992 presidential debate, candidate Bill Clinton showcased his political skills by engaging in a personal conversation with an audience member.

FAMOUS FRIDAYS: In 1938, future Supreme Court Justice Robert Jackson and Wendell Willkie engaged in a radio debate. Willkie's performance was so impressive that when he later challenged incumbent Franklin Roosevelt to a series of debates in 1940, FDR declined.

FAMOUS FRIDAYS: Winston Churchill. Known for his powerful speeches during World War Il, Churchill was a master of debate and argument.

TECHNIQUE TALK TUESDAYS: An Appeal to Emotion employs emotional language or vivid imagery to sway the audience's feelings, bypassing logical arguments. By tapping into emotions, this technique seeks to garner support for a stance based on sentiment rather than concrete evidence or reasoning.

TECHNIQUE TALK TUESDAYS: The Slippery Slope argument exaggerates potential negative consequences of a specific action, aiming to create fear or unease about a decision. By painting a bleak future, this technique seeks to build opposition and discourage support for a particular course of action.

This weeks meeting is CANCELED!

FAMOUS FRIDAYS: These two legendary speakers met seven times in Illinois during a Senate contest in
1858. Each had to make a one-hour opening statement followed by a 90-minute rebuttal
- outside and without microphones! Their debates set the gold standard for political discourse.

TECHNIQUE TALK TUESDAYS: The Appeal to Authority relies on citing a respected figure or expert to support your argument. This technique assumes that the audience will be more likely to accept the position if it is endorsed by someone credible.

FAMOUS FRIDAYS: Archbishop Desmond Tutu is a renowned figure in debate and public speaking. His famous quote, "Don't raise your voice. Improve your argument," encapsulates his approach to debate.

TECHNIQUE TALK TUESDAYS: A Red Herring introduces irrelevant information or side issues to divert attention from the main topic, confusing or misleading the audience. This technique aims to make it challenging for opponents to stay focused on the original debate subject.

Malcolm X was a prominent civil rights activist in the United States during the 1960s. He was a charismatic leader known for his advocacy of black empowerment, self-defense, and separatism. Initially a member of the Nation of Islam, he later broke away and embraced a more inclusive approach to achieving racial equality before his assassination in 1965.