Why Words Matter…

…In a resolution Helps you decide what to debate A well worded proposition has: Significant and contemporary issues Arguments and evidence available on both sides of the resolution Clear and neutral wording A focus on one idea When starting out your research, identify key words in the proposition to define.

…In a Definition A good definition creates necessary limits. In the debate In your research Not every word in a proposition needs to be defined. Some phrases have a consensus, common understanding, about their meaning. Examples: United States, federal government

Where do you find good definitions? Look at: Common usage – what does the average person on the street think? Authorities – dictionaries and specialized dictionaries Encyclopedias – can provide more information than a dictionary at times Books, articles, or scholarly journals – a more modern or nuanced interpretation Examples – when it’s not easy to put into words, find examples that represent the interpretation you are looking for

A good definition is… Relevant to the field of argument Consistent with common usage Consistent with policymakers Consistent with grammatical standards

Who defines the terms? Affirmative Negative Has the right and responsibility to define the terms of the debate Can either accept the Affirmative’s definitions or attack them. May attack definitions for being: Off topic Too narrow If you attack a definition, you MUST Explain why it is bad Replace it with a definition of your own Explain why your definition is appropriate