The Weekly Debates
The weekly debates occur every Thursday night on campus at 8:00 pm during the school year in the Philodemic Room, 208 Healy Hall.
Membership
To become a member, an interested Georgetown undergraduate must attend and give three floor speeches in one semester, or four speeches over two semesters. The individual is then invited to give a keynote address at a debate. Additionally, each individual is assigned a mentor to familiarize him or her with the traditions of the Philodemic Society and assist in preparation of the induction keynote. After giving a keynote speech at a Philodemic debate, the lady or gentleman is inducted into the Society.
Structure
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.
A Society
Even though the structured Debate ends with the closing keynote speeches, the discussion is far from over. The Philodemic Society is truly a society, which distinguishes us from other Debating Groups on collegiate campuses. After every Debate, the society journey’s to Martin’s Tavern on Wisconsin Avenue, to continue discussion, open new one’s, and enjoy each other’s company. Some of the society’s most memorable moments occur in the warm and friendly atmosphere of Martin’s Tavern.
Martin’s Tavern
New members and returning members are welcomed to join the Society after the Debate (and after the room has been put back to order) in our weekly trip to Martin’s Tavern. It’s a great place to continue the debate, open up new discussions, meet new people, and enjoy some great food. Please feel free to join in on this wonderful Philodemic tradition immediately following (well, kind-of) the debate.
Attire
Proper attire for weekly debates is “Western Business Attire.” For men, this means a minimum of a sports jacket or blazer, a shirt and tie, dress pants, and dress shoes. If you do not have a jacket, a shirt and tie is permissible. A jacket without a tie does not qualify. Sneakers are also not appropriate. For women, this generally means a skirt or pants suit, although similar attire is fine. If you are dressed inappropriately, the President may pass over you in favor of someone properly attired, regardless of your seniority.
