The Code of the Debater

IDGE HANDBOOK

I am a debater.  

I will research my topic so that

I may know what I am talking about.

I will respect the subject matter of my debates.

I will choose persuasion over coercion and violence.

                                                               

   I will be a generous winner

  and a gracious loser.

I will remember where I came from,

  and I will apply my criticism

   of others to myself

In a debate, I will use the

best arguments I can

to support the side I am on.

I will seriously consider

the opponent’s views.

In life I will use the best arguments I can

to determine which side I am on.

I will respect other’s rights to freedom of expression,

even though we may disagree.

I will respect my opponents, partners,coach(es),judges,

and tournament officials.

I will be honest about my arguments and my evidence.

I will help those with less experience,

because I am both student and teacher.

I will be an advocate in life,

siding with those in need

and willing to speak truth to power.