Revisited: Organized Debate of CB topics (in Off-topic)

I tried a few things (unsuccessfully) to get legitimate debate concerning balance related issues going that followed a format allowing for calm friendly discussion, as well as clear concise arguments as to the merits of the individual perspectives.

What do we need to do to structure these debates in such a manner as to make them readable by all by the newest people, so that through them folks can get a better understanding of the game? The animosity currently pervading every topic in forums is loathsome and painful to read. It's left me with a strong desire never to post in General again.

Jon made it clear the wiki isn't the place for it, I tried to bring the debate to chat and found it to be too high traffic and prone to emotional outbursts (pot kettle black anyone?) for decent discussion.

Hmm. Perhaps you could do it through contests, where people submit editorial type entries. Have people pay to post an entry, and collect them all as self contained thoughts.

Maybe get everyone to post in a certain format:

The first post containing the thesis/argument, supporting evidence


All posts thereafter:

Post addressed (1st is default)
agreements/disagreements
supporting evidence
past precedent


Just a format similar to that?

I bet we could find formal debate rules (a la college Debate Team style) somewhere online that apply to forums. I'll google around.

http://www.onlinedebate.net/

We can adapt these:

http://www.uspoliticsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1826

I really think it's viable. We could have great debate/discussion threads going with those rules in play, and I think it would attract a more intelligent, logical crowd to CB.

You would think. But I'm skeptical.

Post it under a contest. Impose rules and an entry fee. Strongest posts win prizes. It could work... right?

I think we should have a debate about it.

Hmm interesting concept this, one i personally hopes comes to fruition, and good luck to those involved in creating such a revolutionary change to the CB experience.
Thanks for your contribution to the community.

As per novice's idea, see the new debate forum.