[Points: What it is—how it is conducted—its utility—evils to guard against.]
A debating society is one in which two different sets of people argue on a particular topic, one in favour of it and the other against. The topic is announced in advance so that the competitors may come prepared with their points on the date fixed. After both the blocs have advanced their arguments in favour of and against the proposal, the President sums up the arguments and closes the debate with his own views.
A debating society is very necessary for school and college stu dents. To win in the debate they have to consult different books and acquire up-to-date information on the different aspects of the subject fixed. Then they have to think deeply over the information they have acquired, pick out the important points and arrange them logically and systematically. This increases not only their knowledge but also their power of thinking and reasoning.
A debating society also helps the students to get over their initial nervousness and speak fluently and effectively. It teaches them also to accept defeat with composure and thus win the respect of even their opponents. Students learn to feel the pulse of the audience and profit by it. All these enable them to shine in life as lawyers, politicians, orators, professors, etc.
There are a few points about which a debator must have particular care. He must not talk at random and must not drag his arguments too long. This tires the audience. He may occasionally meet with taunts in the midst of his speech. This should not be allowed to ruffle him. On the contrary he should take it in a sporting spirit.
So a debating society is a must for every school and college be cause it enables the students to have their first lessons in public speaking and oratory.
