Product Description

Pros and Cons offers a unique and invaluable guide to current controversies, providing material for debate on a wide range of topics. Arguments for and against each subject appear in adjacent columns for easy comparison and related topics and suggestions for motions are listed at the end of each entry. Since its first publication in 1896 the handbook has been regularly updated and this 18th edition includes new issues such as censorship of the internet, genetic engineering and legalisation of prostitution. The introductory essay describes debating technique: covering the rules, structure and types of debate and offering tips on how to become a successful speaker. The book is then divided into 6 thematic sections, where specific subjects are covered individually.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #156127 in Books
• Published on: 1999-04-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 263 pages

Customer Reviews

an essential for every debater
An excellent book, although I do feel distinctions should be made for some of the topics e.g. nationalism - which is very different in different parts of the UK. Moreover, I think this book would be greatly improved by having a small bank of highlighted stats to support every theme - a lack of stats being the thing most likely to hinder an experienced debater who already knows most of the arguments. Certainly, however, it remains indispensable for reference in short notice debating and is well worth owning.

An invaluable tool
This book is an excellent resource for anyone who is activly involved in debating. Although this book does include an explenation into the principles of debating it is not a "teach yourself" volume and will be of little use to a novice. It is also important to remember that the book does not contain every conceivable motion and should be regarded as a source of information an not a speech-writer. (the book does not include written speaches, only a list of pros and a list of cons for the included motions) On the whole i would have to say that this book is an exellent aid to any one participating in a debate. However it is an aid and not an automatic spechwriter. One must also remember that it is not an "index of possibel motions" and features a selection of motions. - A GREAT BUY

Useful, thoughtful, well structured.
I found this book to be an excellent example of constructive aid without instruction. Each topic is laid out clearly and the major arguments are discussed with clarity and thoughtfulness. As a basic source for argument material it is second to none; the clash of arguments is clearly and intelligently laid out and the essence of an issue is easily understood after one reading. I would recommend this text particularly to coaches and novice debaters; it gives excellent insights into the issues of the day and is eminently useable at both schools and university level.

Alex Deane, Cambridge Union Society