the american Lyceum
Debate Rules
1. Three minutes to make three points.
Each participant has a 3-minute opening statement to present their recommended policy ideas. This is longer than most presidential debate segments & is optimized for statements of logic, not mere sound bites.
2. Strict rules & time-limits. Debates will never reward bullying by allowing open microphones, and never award uneven speaking time.
3. Cross-examination.
Structured give-and-take helps focus thinking and listening, rewards logic and evidence.
4. Yes-and, Positive, Common Ground.
Resolutions are open questions, rather than binary. Also, scoring by moderators, viewers, and even participants will engage positive recognition of the best arguments made by all.
Each participant has a 3-minute opening statement to present their recommended policy ideas. This is longer than most presidential debate segments & is optimized for statements of logic, not mere sound bites.
2. Strict rules & time-limits. Debates will never reward bullying by allowing open microphones, and never award uneven speaking time.
3. Cross-examination.
Structured give-and-take helps focus thinking and listening, rewards logic and evidence.
4. Yes-and, Positive, Common Ground.
Resolutions are open questions, rather than binary. Also, scoring by moderators, viewers, and even participants will engage positive recognition of the best arguments made by all.
