Types of Motion

This House Supports

A THS motion endorses a specific idea, policy, institution, or trend. The focus of the debate is on whether the subject of the motion is desirable, beneficial, or worthy of support. Unlike a “This House Would” motion, which often focuses on implementation, a THS motion emphasizes the value or importance of the subject itself.

Features

This House Supports (THS)

Endorsement vs. Rejection

The Proposition team must argue why the subject is worth supporting, showcasing its merits, benefits, and alignment with societal goals or values.
The Opposition team must argue against the endorsement, often by critiquing its effectiveness, feasibility, or ethical implications.

Focus on Broader Impact

THS debates often examine the broader societal, economic, or cultural implications of supporting the idea or policy.

Room for Alternatives

The Opposition may propose better alternatives to the subject, though this is not mandatory.

Example

THS the use of Universal Basic Income.

Proposition’s Burden

The Proposition must argue why universal basic income (UBI) is a desirable policy, focusing on its potential to:

  • Reduce Poverty: UBI provides a financial safety net for everyone, eliminating extreme poverty and ensuring basic survival needs are met.
  • Foster Economic Stability: UBI increases consumer spending, boosting local economies and creating jobs.
  • Promote Autonomy: By providing individuals with financial security, UBI empowers them to pursue education, entrepreneurship, or caregiving roles without the constant fear of financial instability.
  • Adapt to Automation: As automation displaces jobs, UBI ensures people remain financially secure, even in a future with fewer traditional employment opportunities.

The Opposition must challenge the desirability of UBI by focusing on:

  • Economic Feasibility: Funding UBI would require exorbitant taxation or significant government debt, straining economies and creating fiscal instability.
  • Unintended Consequences: UBI might disincentivize work, leading to reduced productivity and a lack of skilled labor in critical sectors.
  • Better Alternatives: Targeted welfare programs, such as healthcare subsidies or unemployment benefits, are more efficient and effective than blanket cash transfers.
  • Ethical Concerns: UBI creates a culture of entitlement, rewarding individuals without requiring contributions to society.

Demonstrate Benefits/Harms

Identify the key advantages of the subject and provide evidence to substantiate these claims.
Identify and emphasize the potential harms or limitations of the subject. Use logical and evidence-based reasoning to show why these outweigh the benefits.

Address Feasibility

Anticipate arguments about practicality and cost. Provide realistic solutions to these concerns.
Argue that the idea is impractical or unsustainable. Use data to demonstrate logistical or financial barriers.

Moral and Ethical Justifications

Highlight the alignment of the subject with societal values like fairness, equity, or freedom.
Discuss opportunity costs, showing that resources spent on the subject could be better allocated elsewhere.
Question whether the subject truly aligns with societal values or whether it could lead to unintended moral consequences.