Debates

Schedule

Thursday, Dec 1: classtime used by groups to prepare for debates
Friday, Dec 2, by 5 PM: each group sends in a 4-6 page outline of both sides of the debate along with their side preference
Friday, Dec 2: after receiving outlines I will send email with sides assigned according to preferences or coin flip
Tuesday, Dec 6:  A debates F, B debates E
Thursday, Dec 8: C debates G

Please email me slides at least 1 hour prior to your debate so I can have them on the machine and ready to go.

Topics

A v F: RFID and privacy (Tuesday, Dec 6).   Official documents such as passports and driver's licenses should be equipped with RFID chips.

B v E: Computer security and liability (Tuesday, Dec 6).  Software providers should be legally liable for damages cause by security flaws in their software.

C v G: Copyright policy (Thursday, Dec 8).  The government should require that authors register their works in order to receive copyright protection.

Structure of debate:

Affirmative.The affirmative side leads off with a 5-6 minute statement in support of the resolution. This can be split between two people and should be supported with Powerpoint slides.

Negative. The negative side follows with a 5-6 minute presentation arguing against the resolution. This can be split between two people and should be supported with Powerpoint slides.
Negative rebuttal. Another member of the negative team now has 3 minutes to rebut the arguments given in the affirmative presentation. Slides are optional.

Affirmative rebuttal. Another member of the affirmative team has 3 minutes to rebut the arguments given in the negative presentation. Slides are optional.