Introduction: The introduction, the first impression your thoughts have on the world.
What's the first step to building a great house? It's laying the foundation, solidifying the foundation and establishing a stable framework. In a debate, the "constructive speech" perfectly aligns with this foundation. It's the most crucial step, where both sides first present their positions to the world and present a logical blueprint for their reasoning.
The compelling and logical structure of your opening argument determines the direction of your opponent's rebuttal and the first impression you make on the judges and our GOLA users. A common mistake beginner debaters make is simply spewing out the countless thoughts that come to mind without any order. However, a good debate begins with well-organized writing. In today's column, I'll walk you through a three-step guide to writing a perfect, warm opening argument that will captivate not only your opponent but also anyone passing by.
The three-step structure of a moving introduction
Step 1: Attracting Attention and Defining Clear Terms (Introduction)
An introduction shouldn't simply begin with a resounding "We agree!" Instead, it should serve as a friendly guide, allowing the audience to comfortably immerse themselves in the discussion. It's helpful to provide an engaging background explanation of why this topic is important to discuss in our society today.
However, the most crucial step in Step 1 is defining terms. For example, consider the heated debate at GOLA over lowering the age of delinquency. Both sides must agree on what "lowering the age" specifically means and what the current legal standard for a "juvenile delinquent" is before starting. Otherwise, the proponents will likely think of 12 years old, while the opponents will think of 10, leading to conflicting opinions. Drawing clear boundaries within the debate is the first step toward establishing a proper argument.
Step 2: Presenting Key Arguments Using the ARE Formula (Main Body)
Now that you've established a safe playground, it's time to unleash the powerful weapons you've prepared. In the main body, you should present two to three key arguments to support your position. For this, use the **ARE Structure**, a magical framework proven in countless debate competitions around the world.
- Assertion: Clearly state the core message you want to convey in one line.
- (Example: "Basic income is the minimum safety net to preserve human dignity in the coming AI era.")
- Reasoning: Gently explain your reasoning using common sense and logical reasons.
- (Example: "In a future where jobs are rapidly declining, people need to be guaranteed a livelihood regardless of whether they work or not, so that they can challenge themselves with new creations and learning without being driven to crime.")
- Evidence: Present objective facts that support your reason.
- (Example: "In fact, a two-year basic income experiment conducted by the Finnish government supports this with research showing that recipients' stress levels decreased and social trust increased significantly.")
If you only have claims without supporting evidence, it becomes stubbornness. If you only list evidence without explaining the reasons, it becomes a boring encyclopedia. When these three gears mesh smoothly, your writing gains powerful vitality.
Step 3: Presenting a Hopeful Vision and Concluding (Conclusion)
At the end of your introduction, neatly summarize the arguments you've presented so far. And here's an important tip: don't just summarize. Instead, paint a picture of a positive and hopeful future (vision) that will unfold if your argument is accepted by society.
Leave a moving impression by saying something like, "As these data demonstrate, we can no longer remain stuck in the ways of the past. I'm confident that if our proposals are implemented, more children will stop crying and marginalized neighbors will be able to rise again, creating a warm society." People nod to sharp logic, but ultimately, it's a positive vision and warm sincerity that moves hearts.
A great introduction is completed with consideration for the other person.
What do you think of the three-step argument structure we've explored so far? It may seem a bit complicated, but if you organize your thoughts step by step within this framework, you'll find yourself transforming into an excellent debater before you know it.
True persuasion isn't about subduing your opponent, but rather opening the window of your own thoughts and politely inviting them to join you. The ultimate act of consideration for your debate partner and audience is to diligently consider how to convey your argument more clearly and easily. Remember the ARE formula you learned today and start building your own compelling argument in GOLA's forums right now. We sincerely hope your brilliant ideas will be transformed into magnificent structures on the solid foundation of GOLA.