There is some confusion between the purpose of a debate and a discussion, and people frequently state that they are taking part in a debate when it is actually a discussion.
A debate seeks to impart knowledge and convince through argument between selected speakers, and the chief function of the audience is to listen rather than to talk
The purpose of a discussion is to extract ideas from the audience, whose function is to express those ideas in speech.
Debates are destructive as they present one-sided opinions and demolish reasoned arguments, whereas discussions are constructive and encourage the expression of opinion. The procedure therefore differs as follows:
In a public debate, the principal speakers are only concerned with answering each other and the period after their speeches is merely an opportunity for them to prepare their closing remarks while the audience discuss the subject under the guidance of the chairman. The audience need not and usually do not take any part in the discussion unless they wish to clarify previous points.
The Opener, in winding up, often refers to points raised in discussion and thanks supporters; but, if he had to take part, he might forget his opponents' points which he has no opportunity to answer until the end.
Discussion is very different. Speakers are there to present a reasoned case for or against the motion; and to help the audience to reach a conclusion the chairman often sums up their points before inviting the co-operation of the audience - which is never done in a debate; and during the general discussion, the principal speakers answer questions.
It is widely recognized today that speech is necessary to clarify thought, as it is the natural method of forming nebulous emotions into practical ideas.
Discussions take us a step further and crystallize collective thought into combined action. They are the modern method of self-education, designed to meet the ever-increasing desire for a clearer grasp of current problems, so necessary to counter the isolation of individual thought which can easily lead to prejudiced and unbalanced judgement.
A debate seeks to impart knowledge and convince through argument between selected speakers, and the chief function of the audience is to listen rather than to talk
The purpose of a discussion is to extract ideas from the audience, whose function is to express those ideas in speech.
Debates are destructive as they present one-sided opinions and demolish reasoned arguments, whereas discussions are constructive and encourage the expression of opinion. The procedure therefore differs as follows:
In a public debate, the principal speakers are only concerned with answering each other and the period after their speeches is merely an opportunity for them to prepare their closing remarks while the audience discuss the subject under the guidance of the chairman. The audience need not and usually do not take any part in the discussion unless they wish to clarify previous points.
The Opener, in winding up, often refers to points raised in discussion and thanks supporters; but, if he had to take part, he might forget his opponents' points which he has no opportunity to answer until the end.
Discussion is very different. Speakers are there to present a reasoned case for or against the motion; and to help the audience to reach a conclusion the chairman often sums up their points before inviting the co-operation of the audience - which is never done in a debate; and during the general discussion, the principal speakers answer questions.
It is widely recognized today that speech is necessary to clarify thought, as it is the natural method of forming nebulous emotions into practical ideas.
Discussions take us a step further and crystallize collective thought into combined action. They are the modern method of self-education, designed to meet the ever-increasing desire for a clearer grasp of current problems, so necessary to counter the isolation of individual thought which can easily lead to prejudiced and unbalanced judgement.
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