Understanding Lincoln-Douglas Debate Structure

May 7, 2025

Debate Structure: Lincoln-Douglas Format

Introduction

  • Discusses the debate structure for collegiate Lincoln-Douglas debate.
  • Covers the logistics of speaking order and format.
  • Encourages watching a sample video for better understanding.

History of Lincoln-Douglas Debate

  • Named after the debates between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas in 1858.
  • Lincoln was an abolitionist; Douglas was opposed to abolition.
  • The original debates had lengthy speaking times which are not used in modern collegiate formats.

Modern Lincoln-Douglas Debate

  • One-versus-one format focused on policy issues.
  • Different from team debates (e.g., collegiate policy team debate and parliamentary style debate).

Basic Structure and Terminology

  • Speech Columns: Each column represents a speech opportunity.
  • Affirmative Speeches: Denoted as 1AC (First Affirmative Constructive), 1AR (First Affirmative Rebuttal), 2AR (Second Affirmative Rebuttal).
  • Negative Speeches: Denoted as 1NC (First Negative Constructive), 1NR (First Negative Rebuttal).
  • Cross-Examination (CX): Opportunity for the opposing debater to ask questions.

Speech Times

  • First Affirmative Constructive: 6 minutes.
  • Cross-Examination by Negative: 3 minutes.
  • First Negative Constructive: 7 minutes.
  • Cross-Examination by Affirmative: 3 minutes.
  • First Affirmative Rebuttal: 6 minutes.
  • First Negative Rebuttal: 6 minutes.
  • Second Affirmative Rebuttal: 3 minutes.

Debate Speech Breakdown

1AC (First Affirmative Constructive)

  • Present the affirmative case using prepared briefs (SHIP: Significance, Harms, Inherency, Plan, Solvency).
  • Read evidence cards; no need for memorized speeches.
  • Followed by cross-examination.

1NC (First Negative Constructive)

  • Present the negative brief in response to affirmative case.
  • Includes on-case arguments like disadvantages or counterplans.
  • Followed by cross-examination.

1AR (First Affirmative Rebuttal)

  • Respond to the negative brief.
  • Not for new arguments, but to refute negative points and strengthen the affirmative case.

1NR (First Negative Rebuttal)

  • Respond to the 1AR.
  • Highlight any affirmative points missed or misunderstood.
  • Summarize the negative case.

2AR (Second Affirmative Rebuttal)

  • Respond to the 1NR.
  • Summarize and reinforce the affirmative case.
  • Shortest speech; focus on efficiency.

Cross-Examination

  • Used to clarify or expose inconsistencies in the opponent's arguments.
  • Ask questions that advance your strategy or reveal flaws.

Constructive vs. Rebuttal Speeches

Constructive

  • First speeches where initial positions and arguments are presented.
  • Each debater has one constructive speech.

Rebuttal

  • Final speeches where arguments are summarized and conclusions drawn.
  • No new arguments allowed.
  • Affirmative gets two rebuttals; negative gets one.

Recommendations

  • Rewatch lecture for clarity.
  • Take detailed notes and engage in class discussions for further understanding.