Lincoln Douglas Debate
Lincoln-Douglas Debate is a one-person, persuasive, policy debate on traditional stock issues. It is a communication event, by which we mean the philosophy of the activity is consistent with that which governs other individual events. Competitors in Lincoln-Douglas will be evaluated on their analysis, use of evidence, and ability to effectively and persuasively organize, deliver, and refute arguments. Rapid-fire delivery, commonly called "spread delivery," is considered antithetical to the purpose and intent of this event.
Typically, the membership proposes several different topic areas which are used for an entire season. The membership votes on those areas, selecting one. The LD committee then proposes several resolutions.
The 2009-2010 resolution is:
Resolved: That the United States Federal Government should substantially reform domestic transportation infrastructure.
Time limits for LD debate are:
- 1st Aff. constructive - 6 minutes
- Cross Examination - 3 minutes
- 1st Neg. constructive - 7 minutes
- Cross Examination - 3 minutes
- 1st Aff. rebuttal - 6 minutes
- Neg. rebuttal - 6 minutes
- 2nd Aff. rebuttal - 3 minutes
- Prep time: 4 minutes