Debate Topics Generator

Practice debate with 705+ topics across 22 categories

One-on-one value debate format popular in high school

Your Debate Topic
This house believes that democracy is the best form of government
Politics & GovernmentbeginnerMotion#1

Practice History

How to Use

  • • Select a debate format (Pro/Con, Lincoln-Douglas, Parliamentary, etc.)
  • • Filter by topic type: Motions, Flip topics, or Policy Resolutions
  • • Choose your side and practice arguing that position
  • • Use the built-in timer with format-specific speech lengths
  • • Track your practice history to see your progress

Debate Formats Explained

Pro/Con (Simple)

Basic debate format with one speaker for each side

Sides: Pro vs Con
Lincoln-Douglas (LD)

One-on-one value debate format popular in high school

Sides: Affirmative vs Negative
Parliamentary (Parli)

British-style debate with government and opposition

Sides: Government vs Opposition
Policy (CX)

Team debate focused on specific policy proposals

Sides: Affirmative vs Negative
Public Forum (PF)

Accessible team debate on current events

Sides: Pro vs Con
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Lincoln-Douglas Debate Topics

Lincoln-Douglas (LD) debate is a one-on-one competitive debate format that focuses on philosophical and value-based arguments. Named after the famous 1858 debates between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas, this format is popular in high school debate competitions.

LD Debate Speech Times

  • • Affirmative Constructive: 6 minutes
  • • Cross-Examination: 3 minutes
  • • Negative Constructive: 7 minutes
  • • Cross-Examination: 3 minutes
  • • Affirmative Rebuttal: 4 minutes
  • • Negative Rebuttal: 6 minutes
  • • Affirmative Final Focus: 3 minutes

Key Features of LD Debate

  • • One-on-one format (single debater per side)
  • • Focus on values and philosophical frameworks
  • • Topics typically involve ethical questions
  • • Preparation time: 4 minutes total