October 20, 2005

Northwestern, British debaters argue withdrawal from Iraq

Sparks flew Oct. 13, when members of the Northwestern Debate Society took on debaters from the British National Debate Team.

The teams, with some of the world’s best debaters, took opposing positions on whether George Bush and Tony Blair should establish a timeframe for a quick withdrawal of allied forces from Iraq.

The Great Debate took place in McCormick Auditorium at Norris University Center.

The debate format was decidedly more British than American, which made for a lively evening of British/ American rivalry that dates back to the 18th century. The British style of debate typically emphasizes spontaneous reaction, while the American style places a greater value on advance preparation.

Arguing for withdrawal, the Northwestern team of Josh Branson and Tristan Morales argued that that is how America’s image around the world would be best served. They said that it would send a welcome signal of humility, not weakness.

The British team of Sean Owen and Kenneth Fleming, in arguing for remaining in Iraq, pointed to an emerging civil society, elections and a working constitution as signs of progress there.

Earlier this year, the Northwest-ern Debate Society celebrated its 13th first-place victory in the prestigious National Debate Tournament championship and its third first-place victory in the last four years. Members of the British debate team represent the very best college debaters in Great Britain.

The debate about the war in Iraq was part of the University’s Great Debates Series, a project that seeks to stimulate undergraduate awareness of critical issues of the day. The Great Debates are co-sponsored by the Office of the Provost, the University’s debate society and the Center for Student Involvement.