RSA Debate: Lone Voice or Social Cohesion?

The quality of debates today leaves much to be desired. The RSA is stepping into this challenge to provide people an opportunity to debate well. The aim is not “point-scoring,” but to facilitate an exchange and testing of views to enable participants to engage civilly and to learn something from opposing viewpoints.

The format will have three stages. The first will be establishing the topic and parameters of the debate and grouping participants into (up to) 5 groups: Strongly Agree, Agree, Neutral, Disagree, and Strongly Disagree. In the second stage, participants will discuss their position among those who share their position. Here, participants will both seek the strongest arguments they can find and also the nuances and differences within their own position. A representative of each group will share the positions of the group. In the third stage, the groups will be mixed together for people to participate in debates with people who disagree.

The topic for this debate is, “The Lone Voice or Social Cohesion,” inspired by the Hans Christian Anderson fairy tale The Emperor’s New Clothes.

Whether you’re an experienced debater or looking to try something new, come and join us.

To participate in this event, you will need to register for a ticket so that we can manage capacity. Our events are frequently oversubscribed so if you are subsequently unable to attend, please cancel your Eventbrite booking so we can make room for others on the Wait List.

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At the RSA, we strive to create an inclusive and supportive environment for all Fellows. We ask that you fill out the accessibility requirements box in your Eventbrite booking form in advance of our events to ensure that we can accommodate such requirements.

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Host or Publisher RSA Fellowship