Types of Motion
This House Regrets
A THR motion expresses regret over a past event, trend, policy, or phenomenon, focusing on its negative consequences. Unlike motions that ask for action or principle, THR debates focus on evaluating the outcomes of something that has already occurred. The debate hinges on whether the phenomenon was ultimately harmful or beneficial.
This House Regrets
Focus on Hindsight
THR motions rely on analyzing events retrospectively, using evidence to argue whether the outcomes were harmful or beneficial.
Emphasis on Consequences
The debate evaluates the impacts—both tangible and intangible—of the phenomenon, considering social, economic, cultural, or political dimensions.
No Call for Action
Unlike "This House Would" or "This House Believes That" motions, THR motions do not propose a solution or policy. Instead, the focus is on whether the event should be viewed as regrettable in hindsight.
Proposition’s Burden
The Proposition must demonstrate that the portrayal of anti-heroes has led to significant harm, such as:
- Normalization of Negative Behavior: Argue that media glorifying morally ambiguous characters like Walter White or Tony Stark creates a culture that justifies unethical actions.
- Erosion of Clear Moral Standards: Claim that these portrayals blur the line between good and bad, leading to moral relativism in society.
- Harmful Role Models: Highlight how young or impressionable audiences may emulate these flawed characters, perpetuating toxic behaviors or justifying unethical decisions.
Opposition’s Burden
The Opposition must argue that the portrayal of anti-heroes has had positive effects or that the negatives are overstated. For example:
- Nuanced Storytelling: Defend anti-heroes as vehicles for complex, engaging narratives that explore human flaws and ethical dilemmas.
- Social Commentary: Argue that anti-heroes highlight systemic issues, such as Breaking Bad’s critique of healthcare access or capitalism, sparking important societal conversations.
- Audience Maturity: Suggest that audiences are capable of distinguishing fiction from reality, minimizing the risk of harmful influence.
How to approach a THR Motion?
Establish Harm or Highlight the Positives
Identify the primary harms caused by the phenomenon. For example, if the motion is about anti-heroes, argue that their glorification promotes moral ambiguity and harmful societal norms.
Emphasize the benefits of the phenomenon. For example, argue that anti-heroes have led to more diverse and thought-provoking storytelling, allowing audiences to grapple with complex moral questions.
Use Retrospective Evidence
Provide examples of how the phenomenon has led to observable harm. For instance:
Research shows that viewers who admire anti-heroes are more likely to justify unethical behavior in real life.
Anti-heroes have become aspirational figures in online communities, promoting toxic behavior like arrogance or manipulation."
Provide Comparative Analysis
Compare the phenomenon to alternatives or other trends, demonstrating that it is not uniquely harmful or that the positives outweigh the negatives.
Contextualize the Debate
Place the phenomenon in its broader context, showing that its effects are part of larger societal dynamics.