Eloquentiam Libertati Devinctam
The Philodemic: In Brief
The Philodemic Society is Georgetown’s premier on campus debating society. Over 175 years old, the Philodemic Society is more than a student organization, it’s a Georgetown institution. According to our motto, In pursuit of eloquence in defense of liberty, the society has a long history of excellence in debate and public speaking. The Society gathers each and every Week to discuss a preset topic. Topics cover a wide range of issues—cultural, political, and philosophical. The Debates are structured and formal, but require little preparation in of themselves. All are welcome to attend Philodemic Debates.
Philodemic Debates have a unique structure that allow for a dynamic and interactive debating experience for all who attend. Two keynote speeches are given at the start of each Debate, one in the affirmation and the other in the negation of the resolution. These are prepared speeches given by current or newly inducted members of the society for the purpose of laying the groundwork for the Debate and stimulating conversation. After the Keynote Speeches are over and the president reads the house rules, the Debate is opened up to the floor. Quite literally, the Philodemic Room is divided in two—with the negation and the affirmation sitting on opposite sides of the room. Each side trades off speaking—with the President selecting who will speak for that side. Floor Speeches are relatively short and unprepared addresses that anyone attending is allowing to give. Little to no preparation is required or expected for these speeches. Preference is given to society members in order of seniority. After several rounds of floor speeches, the keynoters give their closing remarks, ending the Debate.
(read less)Eloquentiam Libertati Devinctam
The Philodemic: In Brief
The Philodemic Society is Georgetown’s premier on campus debating society. Over 175 years old, the Philodemic Society is more than a student organization, it’s a Georgetown institution. According to our motto, In pursuit of eloquence in defense of liberty, the society has a long history of excellence in debate and public speaking. The Society gathers each and every Week to discuss a preset topic. Topics cover a wide range of...
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