Pros & Cons: A Debater's Handbook

by Trevor Sather (Editor)

Pros and Cons: A Debaters Handbook offers a unique and invaluable guide to current controversies, providing material for debate on a wide range of topics. Arguments for and against each subject appear in adjacent columns for easy comparison, and related topics and suggestions for possible motions are listed at the end of each entry. Since its publication in 1896 the handbook has been regularly updated and this eighteenth edition includes new issues such as censorship of the internet, genetic engineering and the legalisation of prostitution. The introductory essay describes debating technique, covering the rules, structure and type of debate, and offering tips on how to become a successful speaker. The book is then divided into eight thematic sections, where specific subjects are covered individually.

Genres: Philosophy

280 pages, Paperback

First published January 4, 1999

Reviews

[Aviva · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic book to help with debating. It contains an enormous list of topics, additional background information to the topic when necessary, a thorough list of pros and cons, and possible motions.

If you are a debate coach, on a debate team or really interested in debating, get this book.

[Ian "Marvin" Graye · Rating 3 out of 5]

Finally, An Indubitable Proposition

People are debating, when they should be dating.

[eunice · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lots of topics, wide variety! Good for debaters (cheatsheet)
A bit like an encyclopedia though - could be more interesting! Format isn't the best.

[Toshali Gupta · Rating 4 out of 5]

Serves the purpose. Although some of the points mentioned might not be of use to you, but will surely give you both the sides of the debate so pick which ever you have to fight for :)