DebateHub Rules and Guidelines
Our platform is dedicated to fostering constructive, respectful, and educational debates. To ensure a positive experience for all users, please follow these guidelines.
General Conduct
Respect All Participants
Treat all participants with respect regardless of their views, background, or experience level. Personal attacks, harassment, or discriminatory language will not be tolerated.
Focus on Ideas, Not People
Challenge ideas, not individuals. Criticize arguments rather than attacking the person making them.
Maintain Academic Integrity
Be honest in your arguments. Do not intentionally misrepresent facts or sources to support your position.
Use Appropriate Language
Maintain a professional tone. Profanity, offensive language, and slurs are prohibited.
Debate Formats
Oxford Style
A formal debate with proposition and opposition sides. Includes opening statements, rebuttals, cross-examination, and closing arguments. Strict time limits apply.
Lincoln-Douglas Style
A one-on-one debate format focused on logical arguments and value positions rather than factual evidence. Includes constructive speeches, cross-examinations, and rebuttals.
Round Table Discussion
A less formal format where multiple participants discuss a topic from various perspectives, with a moderator guiding the conversation.
Time Structure
Each debate format has specific time allocations for different phases. The platform timer will keep track of these limits automatically.
Argument Guidelines
Logical Structure
Present arguments with clear reasoning. Identify premises and conclusions, and explain how they connect.
Avoid Logical Fallacies
Familiarize yourself with common logical fallacies and avoid them in your arguments. Examples include ad hominem attacks, straw man arguments, and false dichotomies.
Address Counterarguments
Acknowledge and respond to opposing viewpoints directly. Do not ignore or misrepresent counterarguments.
Balance Depth and Breadth
Aim for a balanced approach that addresses key points thoroughly rather than covering too many points superficially.
Source Citations
Required for Factual Claims
Provide sources for factual claims, statistics, or specific information. General knowledge or logical arguments may not require citation.
Credible Sources
Use reliable, preferably peer-reviewed or well-established sources. News articles, academic papers, government reports, and data from reputable organizations are recommended.
How to Share Sources
Use the resource sharing feature to upload documents or share links. Include page numbers or timestamps when referencing specific information within a source.
Recent and Relevant
When applicable, use current information. For topics where historical context is important, clearly indicate the timeframe.
Moderation
Supervisor Role
Each debate room has a supervisor who ensures rules are followed, manages the debate flow, and intervenes if necessary.
Time Management
Supervisors enforce time limits and ensure all participants have equal opportunity to speak.
Content Monitoring
Supervisors may remove inappropriate content or issue warnings for rule violations.
Technical Support
Supervisors can assist with technical issues and ensure the platform features are working correctly for all participants.
Rule Violations
Warning System
First violations typically result in a warning. Repeated or severe violations may lead to removal from the debate or temporary account suspension.
Reporting Mechanism
Participants can report rule violations by clicking the report button next to any message or using the report feature in participant profiles.
Appeal Process
If you believe a moderation action was taken unfairly, you can submit an appeal through the help center.
Permanent Bans
Severe violations, including harassment, hate speech, or threats, may result in permanent platform bans.