The form of argumentation which is of most practical value to young persons is debating. As an exercise in self-control it is as good as football. The necessity of getting our opponent's point of view is the best possible preparation for dealing with men and women; and if this last advantage were the only one to gain from debating, it alone would be worth all the cost. The acquirement of this ability is itself an education.

186. Terms Used In Debate

Certain terms are used in connection with formal debating which may need brief explanation.

1. The proposition is the statement of the subject of the debate.

2. The affirmative side is the one which attempts to prove that the proposition is true.

3. The negative side attempts to show that the proposition is not true.

4. Colleagues are debaters on the same side.

5. Opponents are debaters on opposite sides.

6. Evidence is the material used in the proof.

7. Burden of proof is the task of proving, which rests on the affirmative throughout, although the term is applied in a slightly modified sense to the obligation of either side.

8. Refutation is the argument which aims directly to disprove the opponents' statements.

9. Rebuttal has practically the same meaning as refutation, but is often applied to the final summary of each side.