Types of Motion
This House Believes That
A THBT motion requires debaters to assert or challenge a value judgment or principle. The central task in this type of debate is to evaluate whether the principle or value embedded in the motion is true, morally sound, or beneficial to society. Unlike policy-oriented motions, THBT motions do not necessitate a specific course of action but instead, explore the underlying ideas or priorities.
This House Believes That
Value Oriented
THBT motions emphasize principles, philosophies, or beliefs. The debate focuses on abstract reasoning rather than the feasibility of implementing a policy.
Subjectivity
These motions often involve subjective evaluation, requiring debaters to make compelling ethical, philosophical, or societal arguments.
Focus on Broader Implications
The debate should examine the motion's impact on different stakeholders, its societal implications, and its long-term consequences.
Proposition’s Burden
The Proposition team must argue why systemic change is the correct priority for climate activism. This includes demonstrating that systemic change is more effective, impactful, or ethical compared to individual action.
Proposition can argue that:
- Systemic change addresses root causes, such as corporate emissions and unsustainable policies, which are responsible for the majority of climate harm.
- Individual actions, while important, often shift the burden of responsibility onto ordinary people without addressing structural barriers.
- Historical examples of successful activism, such as the civil rights movement or labor reforms, show that systemic change is necessary for widespread impact.
Opposition’s Burden
The Opposition team must highlight the flaws in prioritizing systemic change or argue why individual action is equally or more valuable.
Opposition could argue that:
- Individual actions create grassroots momentum, build public awareness, and foster a culture of responsibility, which are prerequisites for systemic change.
- Systemic change often relies on slow political processes, making individual actions critical in the short term.
- A binary choice between systemic change and individual action is unnecessary, as both approaches can coexist and complement each other.
How to approach a THBT Motion?
Define the Value or the Principal
Clearly articulate the value embedded in the motion. For example, in the climate activism motion, the value might be "effectiveness in combating climate change." Establish why this value is critical to achieving the motion's goals.
Use Comparative Analysis
Compare the principle in the motion with opposing values or priorities. For example, compare the effectiveness of systemic change versus individual action in addressing climate issues. Highlight why the alternative is less effective, less moral, or has harmful consequences.
Address Counterarguments Proactively
Always try and address the arguments from the other side preemptively, giving yourself an edge.