Debate the argument, not the rules.

In last weeks newsletter I talked about 3 things I learned at the International Public Debate Association National Tournament. I was talking with a friend after the newsletter went out, she mentioned that within 48 hours she’d already quoted one of my points to someone. So I thought I’d make sure you caught it…

Debate the argument, not the rules. In one round a debater said, “the IPDA bylaws 6.1 state he can’t do that.” Buck up camper, not everyone plays by the rules. Not everyone will play by the rules, and you can choose to debate the rules and fairness, OR the resolution at hand. Have a solid argument, back it up with facts, and let the judge decide.

How often do you debate the rule instead of the argument?