Unit 5: Listening Task #1
Debating Tips: An Interview
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Tim Newfields has taught college students in Asia how to debate for ten years. He was interviewed in Taipei in October 1999. |
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Q: Would you mind if I asked you some questions about debating? A: No problem. Shoot. Q: A lot of people in Taiwan feel debating is impolite. Could you tell us the main difference between a debate and an argument? A: Well, there are many different types of debate. Generally, a debate is like a sport with rules and arguments are often closer to fighting a war. Debates have clear rules about time and content. Usually, both sides equal chances to make their point, and people have to stay within a topic. Q: What advice would you give to those who want to be more successful at debating? A: The first point is to separate issues from personalities. No matter how strongly you disagree with a person you're debating, there's no need to for personal attacks. It is certainly fine to challenge someone else's ideas, but personal attacks aren't what debating is about. Q: Can you illustrate this point? A: Sure. Saying something like, "That idea doesn't make sense." is a fair statement in a debate. However, saying, "You're stupid" is not. Such a statement attacks a person, not an idea. Q: I see. Debates focus on issues, not personalities. What other tips do you have about debating? A: To debate skillfully you need to know a topic in depth. Therefore, if you're going to debate something, first take the time to study it in as much detail as possible. Find evidence to support your claim(s). Often it's good to research opposing views, too, so you can guess what your opponent will say. Q: So researching a topic in depth and learning about opposing viewpoints is helpful. A: Generally. The proverb 'know your enemy' makes sense. Be willing to study other viewpoints. Q: I see. A: A third point about debating is to make sure your ideas are well organized. Mention the most important ideas first, and secondary ones later. And when you make your final statement, mention the key ideas once again. Q: So the order that you present your ideas is important. A: That's right. Think critically about your ideas before you debate them. If you can "think through" your ideas in advance or share them with a friend, you'll be stronger when debating an opponent. Q: OK. This means making sure your ideas are sharp and in good order. A: That's right. However, debates are not won by ideas alone. One final point for success in debating is knowing how to use your voice and body. Use body language to emphasize key points and make sure your voice can be heard by all people. Say main points loudly and slowly so your words better understood. Q: So voice tone and body language are important. A: Without question. Related to this, it's good to use brief pauses at key moments to focus attention. Good speakers know how to use silence as well as words. Q: Thanks for sharing your ideas with us. A: My pleasure. If you remember these points, debating can be enjoyable. And it's often useful in business. |
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Ver. 1.3 - Updated 26 October 1999
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