Debating is by no means the same as entering into a full-on
argument. In fact, you will need to develop a succinct, effective argument,
which will gain you support and kudos, rather than blindly attacking your
opponent.
From Cicero to Churchill, history’s great debaters have
helped shape the world we live in and resolve many of society’s issues. Here
are 12 ways that debating can help you in your life for years to come.
1. Be a better critical thinker
While you might not debate on a day-to-day basis, chances
are you will get involved in small disagreements and differences of opinion.
Debating, instead of arguing, can help you defuse a rapidly escalating
situation. Rather than raising your voice, take a step back and choose your
words wisely.
Debating helps you to develop essential critical thinking
skills – the ability to make reasoned and well thought out arguments in
addition to questioning the evidence behind a particular stance or conclusion.
Critical thinking will help you become curious about new ideas while also
retaining a level of scepticism and building a healthy attitude to questioning.
It will also help you to become more humble – well, you can’t be right all the time!
2. Articulate your thoughts
Ever had that feeling when you just can’t get your words out
quickly enough? Debating can help you become even better at explaining a whole
variety of topics. From explaining complex mathematical equations to the
plotline of your favourite book, debating helps you to identify your audience
and choose the appropriate tone. Too formal a tone will only alienate you from
your listeners, while being too relaxed might undermine your own arguments. The
ability to articulate and plan your thoughts is key in debating, producing a
well- planned out and sharp argument.
3. Education is key
In any debate the argument matters, even if you don’t agree
with it on principle. The manner in which you deliver your winning speech is
also incredibly important: keeping calm and maintaining eye contact are all
proven as effective debating techniques. Last but not least is the method in
which you put your debate together. Are your arguments coherent? Do they make
sense?
A good debater will keep all of these in mind in addition to
the core elements they have acquired through education (reading and finding
sources, writing and drafting a speech, speaking confidently and being able to
listen) – useful both inside and outside the classroom.
4. Think on your feet
Think outside of the box, challenge your opponent and be
ready to identify any loopholes in their counter-argument. The ability to think
on your feet and respond to questions and comments is essential while debating
– hesitating could cost you precious time and points. In fact, the ability to
think on your feet could stand you in good stead in any situation which life
throws at you, when time is of the essence and a decision needs to be made
fast.
5. Conflict resolution
A good debater will remain focused and won’t stray from the
issue they are discussing. Just like any successful orator, remember who it is
you want to keep on side, and present a personable argument – you will appear
instantly much more amenable and likeable.
Knowing how to lose graciously and accept your failings are
important skills, both in debating and during everyday life. This will also
help resolve any conflicts before they have a chance to begin. So, accept any criticism
that comes your way. It will make you a much more polished and proficient
speaker – and human being – in the long term.
6. Show some empathy
A successful speaker will always maintain a degree of
empathy while debating – you might not believe in what you have been assigned,
but empathy will help you understand and accept the beliefs of others. Nobody
is asking you to agree with the other party’s argument, but empathy is an
important life skill, helping you to improve your relations on a personal and
professional level.
7. Keep your emotions in check
A good debater will also remember to retain an element of
poise and composure – addressing the issue rather than getting carried away
emotionally. In fact, managing your emotions will not only stand you in good
stead while debating. It is no easy skill to manage, but will gain you respect
in every walk of life.
8. Construct meaning out of complex situations
Debating will also help you learn how to construct meaning
out of, what are usually, rather complex topics. From world peace to banning
nuclear energy, taking the time to research the subject and carefully construct
the points you want to make will help you construct a better argument.
Finding solutions to a previous problem and compiling
creative solutions and ideas are also key skills for any good debater. Thinking
outside of the box and making the best of a bad situation are excellent traits
to have, meaning you are prepared and ready to take on any challenge, no matter
what the size.
9. Presentation skills
Presentation plays a crucial part in how others perceive you
as an individual, and more importantly, as competition.
Consider what you are going to say, speak slowly and with
clear enunciation. It will make for better reasoning and a clearer
understanding of what you say. Good presentation skills will earn you instant
respect both while debating and in future situations.
10. Confidence boost
Good presentation skills will also help boost confidence – helping
you to shine at interviews or work related events. If you are confident you
feel more able to take on increased responsibility and even take some risks –
helping you to stand out as an individual. A polished overall presentation and
confident speaking manner will make you a memorable individual.
11. Be more socially conscious
Debating is a skill which requires any individual to be much
more politically and socially aware of current affairs. In fact, debating also
requires you to address a whole range of diverse social issues and viewpoints.
Being more socially and politically aware is not only important while debating
but it will also ensure that you connect and relate better to others, both
socially and in the workplace.
12. An expanded worldview
Debating not only touches on political and social topics, it
can also help individuals acquire a totally different worldview too. Debating
means students study topics that they wouldn’t normally consider, meaning they
have a deeper understanding of the society and the world which we live in. An
expanded worldview also encourages students to be proud of their talents and
achievements, in addition to being more appreciative of the opportunities that
await them.
Being more conscious of the world we live in will stand you
in good stead for the future – even if you don’t win the debate this time.
[This article was written by St John’s-Ravenscourt School.
Over the last 28 years, students at the Canadian school have been named World
Debating Champion on 14 occasions. Students of all ages and skill levels practice
various forms of debate and travel across the country and the world competing.]