Religion debate motions (page 2)

Page 2 of 3: 200 more religion motions, covering 2016 to 2020. Start at the newest religion motions, or search the whole bank from the motion explorer.

2020 (111 motions)

THP a world without a belief in free will
Tilbury House Online Open 2020 · Open_Final
THW allow "religious duty" as a mitigating defense for crimes
NTU Debate Online Open · 4
THR the rise of celebrity preachers
Circuit Breaker Debate Open · 4
THW allow children who have reached the age of majority to sue their parents for religious indoctrination
Restricted Mara Open · Novice_Semi
THW ban the creation of saviour siblings
Imperial IV · 5
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For the purposes of this debate, a savior sibling is a child who is born primarily for the purpose of providing an organ or cell transplant to a sibling who is affected with a fatal disease
THBT the scientific community should reject the notion of "non-overlapping magisteria"
St Petersburg Online Open · Open_Final
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"Non-overlapping magisteria" is the belief that science and religion describe fundamentally distinct aspects of human experience, and thus represent two different and equally valid modes of inquiry.
This house prefers a world in which people predominantly believe that all decisions, thoughts, and actions of all in the universe are pre-determined.
The Grand Spar May · 1
TH prefers to live in a world where personal success and failure are predominantly seen as a consequence of random factors rather than personal choices
EUDC Challenge IV · Open_Final
THW facilitate religious proselytization in areas of high socio-economic deprivation
BRAC Genders Online · 4
THBT Lebanon should abolish the system of Confessionalism
BRAC Genders Online · Open_Semi
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Confessionalism is a system of government that is a de jure mix of religion and politics. It typically entails distributing political and institutional power proportionally among officially recognized religious communities in the country. Lebanon currently uses the confessionalism system. The President is always Christian, Prime Minister is Sunni Muslim, Speaker of Parliament is a Shia. In the recent countrywide protests that broke out in Lebanon, many but not all of the protestors wanted the system to be abolished.
THP a world where there is no belief in the afterlife
Sumatra Online Debate Open 2020 · Novice_Final
THP a world where entry into Heaven is decided on peer-based evaulation as opposed to religious doctrine
The Debate Open · Open_Final
TH, as a parent belonging to a minority religion, would discourage their children from expressing their faith publicly (e.g. crossing yourself, wearing hijabs, kippahs or other articles of faith, posting on social media, publicly attending mass, synagogues etc.)
Doxbridge 2: Euros Bungaloo · Schools_Final
THP a world where Karmic reincarnation exists
Doxbridge 2: Euros Bungaloo · Open_Final
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Reincarnation is the belief that the non-physical essence of a living being starts a new life in a different physical form or body after biological death. (This assumes the existence of a being's non-physical essence). Karmic reincarnation is the belief that this cycle of rebirth is dependent on the moral worth of a person's words, thoughts and actions during their lifetime. A person who has died after leading a virtuous and morally praiseworthy life (accumulated good karma) will be reborn in a more comfortable context, while a person who has died after leading a life of moral degeneracy (accumulated bad karma) may be reborn as a lower life form (e.g. insect, animal).
That we should stop the practice of requiring community's approval to build houses of worship.
Monash Australs 2020 · Open_Octa
That portrayals of religious deities and prophets in media should receive prior approval from relevant religious authorities.
Monash Australs 2020 · ESL_Quarter
That we, as a Catholic priest, would actively endorse liberal values that do not align with the Catholic Church.
Monash Australs 2020 · ESL_Final
THR the popular belief in free will
Womxn and Gender Minorities Online Debate Open · Novice_Final
THP a world where epistemic humility is widely believed in, as opposed to a world where skepticism is widely believed in.
Womxn and Gender Minorities Online Debate Open · Open_Final
Info slide
For the purposes of this debate, "epistemic humility" is defined as a philosophy which believes in the existence of objective truth but is modest in the perception of how much of this truth is currently known. "Skepticism" is defined a philosophy that is agnostic about the existence of objective truth.
That the Catholic Church should de-emphasise the concepts of Satan and Hell.
Jurassic IV 2020 · Open_Final
You are a cardinal with evidence of corruption in the Vatican. That you should destroy the evidence.
Jurassic IV 2020 · Open_Final
You are a 16th century english Catholic bishop. Henry VIII has established the Anglican Church in opposition to the Catholic Church. You have been invited by the King to join his church as Bishop. That you should join the Anglican Church.
Jurassic IV 2020 · Open_Final
That we shuold genetically design "Philosopher Kings"
Whippersnappa Pre-Australs · 4
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According to Plato, a philosopher king is a ruler who possesses both a love of wisdom, as well as intelligence, reliability, and a willingness to live a simple life. Plato argues that philosopher kings should be the rulers, as all philosophers aim to discover the ideal polis. Plato's idealised polis, the 'kallipolis', is a just city where political rule depends on knowledge, which philosopher kings possess, and not power.
That we should ban the consumption of animals
Whippersnappa Pre-Australs · 5
That we should ban religious practices that cause cruelty to animals.
Whippersnappa Pre-Australs · 5
THR the commercialisation of spirituality
Macquarie Open 2020 · 5
That Lebanon should abolish the confessional system
2020 Commonwealth Debating Championship · 2
TH, as climate activists, would use interpretation of religious texts as a tool for climate action ( Eg invoking stories from the Ramayana's Aranya Kaand to create narratives around forests, etc.
Cross Deb Soc Practice Tournament Ed. 1 · 3
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Our house is on fire!
TH, as the Catholic Church, would prioritize impact investing over direct charity to communities
Taylor's Debate Open · Open_Octa
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Impact investing refers to investments made into companies, organizations, and funds with the intention to generate a measurable, beneficial social or political impact alongside a financial gain.
THW only recruit atheists to be part of the group, and would not allow any religious books or items of worship on board
Astana EUDC 2020 · ESL_Final
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The year is 2140. A distant planet very similar to Earth has been discovered. A group of humans is supposed to embark on a journey to settle the planet.
THR the idolization of individuals who achieved success without going through traditional education (Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, etc)
Sarawak Schools Online Debating Championship 2020 · 1
THP to live in a world where personal success and failure are seen as a consequence of random factors rather than personal choice
DSDC Coherence 2020 · Novice_Final
THP a world in which people exclusively idolise people they know
Manchester IV 2020 · Open_Final
THP a world without the concept of fate and destiny
The Novice Debate · Open_Quarter
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Fate and destiny is the idea that a course of events are predetermined to occur. This concept is often conceived as a predetermined future, whether in general or of an individual.
THP a world in which most people are determinists to a world in which most people believe in free will
East Coast Asians · Open_Final
THW prefer to live in a world where one was mortal but could precisely schedule and plan out one`s death
East Coast Asians · Open_Final
THW hold religious leaders liable when identifiable adult believers are harmed by adhering to doctrinal teachings
MIDP Round Robin 2020 · 1
THO all media and literature that romanticizes mental illness
Cross-DebSoc Pre-ABP Tournament 2020 · 4
THBT democracies should allow people to opt into religious courts that punish them for acts that are deemed to be offences under their religion, as long as they remain members of that religion
IBA DU Nations League · 1
TH, as a religious leader, would deny membership to politicians who vote contrary to our religious teachings
Victoria's Cup · Open_Semi
TH, as Hercules, would go up to the Olympus to live with the Gods
Alternate Pre-ABP · 4
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videoslide: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6xhZ0KE7mS4 Hercules, son of Zeus, was stripped off of his divine power by Hades. Hercules grew among mortals, and fell in love with a mortal woman - Meg, but was always much stronger then his surroundings. He fought off monsters sent in his direction by Hades, earning the badge of a hero, granting him a one time opportunity to join his family of Gods on the Olympus.
Assuming it could be done without placing the burden of secrecy on adults, This House Prefers a world where individuals are unaware of the existence of organized religions for the duration of their childhoods
Bishop Anthony Lobo Championship 2020 · Open_Final
TH, as a prominent religious leader of a major organised religion, would promote any scripture/interpretation/doctrine that says that the determinant factor of entering heaven is good deeds and not the level of faith/piety
Taiwan Online Debate Open · Open_Quarter
THP a world where the belief or disbelief in God or Gods is seen as an involuntary decision
Taiwan Online Debate Open · Open_Quarter
THR the usage of religious appeals as a rallying call for humanitarian causes
Taiwan Online Debate Open · HS_Semi
TH house prefers karmic-based religious systems over religious systems based on eternal reward or punishment/ divine mercy.
The Grand Spar September · 1
That, as a Hobbit, we would go on a grand adventure
Pop Culture Grand Prix · 1a
That, as Rey Skywalker after the battle of Exegol, we would re-start the Jedi Order
Pop Culture Grand Prix · 2
That the Star Wars sequels are better than the Star Wars prequels
Pop Culture Grand Prix · 2
That it is in the interest of the Sith (circa 35 BBY) to abolish the Rule of Two
Pop Culture Grand Prix · 2
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The Rule of Two was a Sith philosophy mandating that only two Sith Lords could exist at any given time: a master to represent the power of the dark side of the Force, and an apprentice to train under the master and one day fulfil their role. The events of The Phantom Menace (the first Star Wars film) begin 3 years after 35 BBY.
That we believe that Donkey and Puss should have had a relationship, not Donkey and Dragon
Pop Culture Grand Prix · Open_Quarter
That, as Melissa, we would reveal the truth to the world
Pop Culture Grand Prix · Open_Quarter
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Avril Lavigne is a famous Canadian singer. After being discovered a few years prior, in 2002 at age 17 she released her first major album Let Go, which topped a number of charts. For the purposes of this debate, assume that in 2003, after struggling with fame, Avril appeared to have died and her record company replaced her with a clone named Melissa. Avril's formative memories were planted in Melissa's mind, but she always felt that something was not right. The record company recently decided to tell Melissa the truth, and have vowed to support her decisions going forward.
That we believe that the ending of Bojack Horseman series should have been him dying at the end of 'The View From Halfway Down'
Pop Culture Grand Prix · ESL_Final
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Penultimate Episode (The View from Halfway Down): A young Beatrice Horseman welcomes her adult son BoJack, and a child-aged Sarah Lynn, into her house. Herb Kazzaz, Crackerjack Sugarman, Corduroy Jackson-Jackson, etc., join them at a dinner party, even though all of these characters (except BoJack) died earlier in the series. The guests discuss the best and worst parts of their lives. A new arrival, introduced as BoJack's father Butterscotch, has the appearance of BoJack's childhood idol Secretariat. Beatrice then invites the guests to a show, at which point BoJack expects to awake from a dream. However, BoJack remains in the dreamscape. In a theatre next door, Herb hosts a talent show featuring the guests, all of whom have their performances interrupted or ended by passing through an empty white door centre-stage. Following Sarah Lynn and Corduroy's performance, BoJack goes outside for an emotional conversation with Butterscotch/Secretariat. Looking down, BoJack sees a silhouette of a horse floating face down in a swimming pool. BoJack starts to remember details of his bender from the previous episode, recalling that he went into the swimming pool and called Diane. BoJack finds himself unable to leave the theatre. Herb suggests that BoJack is not dreaming, but processing his own death. He finds a landline phone, calls out for Diane, and hears her voice through the phone. In their conversation, BoJack remembers that in real life, his call to Diane went to voicemail and he presumably drowned in the pool. Diane's voice agrees to stay on the phone with BoJack as the tar envelops him. Final Episode (Nice While It Lasted): After the events of "The View From Halfway Down", a montage shows that BoJack was saved from drowning by the occupants of his former house. BoJack is convicted of breaking and entering and is sentenced to 14 months in a maximum security prison. A year later, BoJack is granted furlough and is picked up by Mr. Peanutbutter to go to Princess Carolyn and Judah's wedding. BoJack tells Todd that he is comfortable being in jail; he stays out of trouble and is beating his sobriety record. Todd convinces him that once he completes his sentence, he just has to set a new record every day. Bojack asks for representation should he decide to re-enter the business but Princess Carolyn only offers to 'recommend some excellent people'. Later, BoJack climbs onto the roof and finds Diane smoking. BoJack tells her he misses her, and she reminds him of the voicemail he left when he broke into his old house and nearly drowned. She tells him she thought he was dead for seven hours, and how she hates herself for feeling guilty about not taking care of him. BoJack apologizes. Diane reveals that she is happily married to her husband Guy, and they have moved to Houston together. She advises him that there are people who help you become who you are, but they are not meant to stay in your life forever. Then Bojack remarks how it'd be funny if this was the last time they spoke, and that was the last line of the entire series.
That, as Morty, we would sever ties with Rick
Pop Culture Grand Prix · ESL_Final
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Rick and Morty is a popular animated television series. The series follows the misadventures of Rick Sanchez and his grandson Morty Smith, who split their time between domestic life and interdimensional adventures. Rick is an eccentric and alcoholic mad scientist, who eschews many ordinary conventions such as school, marriage, love, and family. He frequently goes on adventures with his 14-year-old grandson, Morty, a kind-hearted but easily distressed boy, whose naïve but grounded moral compass plays counterpoint to Rick's Machiavellian ego. Morty frequently complains about Rick not showing him respect, Rick putting his life in danger, and Rick not giving him enough autonomy. On more than one occassion, Rick has forced Morty to kill. Despite this, Rick truly does love and care for Morty, and the two have a deep understanding of one another where they are otherwise largely misunderstood.
THBT religions should promise reward in the afterlife as opposed to promising material reward in this life, with both outcomes contingent on faithful practice
Yale NUS Pro Ams 2020 · ProAm_Quarter
TH prefers a world in which every individual is perceived to have equal access to a deeper connection with religious deities (as opposed to e.g. religious leaders being perceived to have more such access)
Tilbury House Online Open 2.0 · ProAm_Final
That we regret the culture of fearing death
Karachi Debate Open · 1
That we prefer a world where the internet never existed
Karachi Debate Open · Novice_Semi
TH prefers a world where each believer established their own connection to God,rather than establishing one through organized religion
BDC Pre-Worlds 2020 · Open_Semi
THBT the belief "that religious leaders have a deeper connection with their deities" does more harm than good
The Halycon Debates · Novice_Final
TH as Christians Opposes the commercialisation of Christmas
The Halycon Debates · Novice_Final
TH, as religious leaderships, would shift their strategy from increasing the number of believers towards prioritizing boosting loyalty amongst adherents to the religion.
The Halycon Debates · Novice_Final
THW replace all forms of religious giving (e.g. tithing, zakat) with equal government funding of religious institutions
ILNU Pre UADC · 2
TH, as the current Dalai Lama, W concede to Gyaincain Norbu as the legitimate Panchen Lama
ILNU Pre UADC · 2
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The Dalai Lama is the highest spiritual leader of Tibet and is considered to a living Buddha, the Panchen Lama is the second highest and plays a significant role in finding the next Dalai Lama after a current one passes away. The current Dalai Lama has lived in exile in India since 1959. The Qianlong Emperor instituted a system of selecting the Panchen Lama by a lottery that used a Golden Urn with names wrapped in clumps of barley. This method was used a few times for both positions during the 19th century, but eventually fell into disuse. In 1995, the Dalai Lama chose to proceed with the selection of the next Panchen Lama without the use of the Golden Urn, while the Chinese government insisted that it must be used. This has led to two rival Panchen Lamas: Gyaincain Norbu as chosen by the Chinese government's process, and Gedhun Choekyi Nyima as chosen by the Dalai Lama. However, Nyima was abducted by the Chinese government shortly after being chosen as the Panchen Lama and has not been seen in public since 1995. The Current Dalai Lama now states that after his passing, the office of the Dalai Lama will cease to exist and that there will be no reincarnation in a bid to stop the CCP from appointing their own Dalai Lama via their handpicked Panchen.
THP a world in which all people share the same physical appearance
Smart Debates · 1
This House Believes That minority religions in the West should strongly encourage their congregations to refrain from public display of their faith
Japan BP Open · 4
THR the commercialisation of religious holidays
IIUM Debate Open · 4
TH, as religious minorities, would actively re-imagine their central figures as social activists rather than holy archetypes. For example, Jesus Christ as an activist for the disenfranchised rather than the Son of God
WDF Opens XIV · Open_Final
THW prohibit the teaching of religion to children under the age of majority
TIB-JUDO Pre Eminence · 4
THW 'resurrect' their significant other
Birmingham ESL · Open_Final
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You have recently lost a significant other. A technology has recently been discovered that would allow you to create an imitation of them as an non-sentient AI. They would act and recall memories in an identical way to your loved one. They would exist in an robot body indistinguishable to humans.
THW cease the research and teaching of heliocentrism
Aberstywyth Mini · 5
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You are an Italian scientist and polymath living in the early 17th Century. At this time, Christian organisations have the dominant influence on public opinion, organisations and politics. You are part of a group of humanists who value knowledge and enlightenment, and you have recently scientifically proven that the earth travels around the sun. Noting that the church disagrees with this concept, the Pope gives orders for you to end your studies in this area
THP living the events of the perfect day over and over again, rather than acting differently to pursue different events
Aberstywyth Mini · Open_Final
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Every day you wake up in the same day as the one you have just experienced (February 2nd). As far as you are aware, there is no way to break this loop and you will continue living through the day indefinitely. You can change the actions you take, leading to different outcomes, but otherwise everything else remains the same (this is the plot of the movie Groundhog Day). One day, you decide you have lived through the events of a perfect day
THP a world where the dominant religion is Religion A as opposed to Religion B
Idea Lite · Open_Semi
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For the purposes of this debate, Religion A believes that in absolute determinism where all actions are pre-ordained or are destined to happen. On the other hand, Religion B believes in absolute free will where an individual is able to choose between different possible courses of action.
In religious issues involving a particular religious group (For ex- Triple Talaq or Sabrimala), THBT only members of that religious community should be allowed to file a court case.
La Liberta · Open_Semi
THR the narrative that there is no objective truth
Oxford IV · Open_Final
In secular states with a majority religion, THW use religious/conservative language and rhetoric to spread environmental awareness
Northern Debate Open · 2
As an average religious person, THR the emphasis on piety/performing acts of worship in religion
Northern Debate Open · Open_Final
THP a world where God is seen as fallible, rather than infallible
ADU Novice Championships · Open_Final
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An infallible God is an omnipotent, benevolent God which makes no mistakes. A fallible God remains benevolent, but has the capacity to make mistakes - both morally and in judgement.
THBT social media companies should use algorithms to push individuals away from pseudoscientific beliefs and practices (i.e. Tarot Readings, Astrology and Horoscope, Wicca, Fortune Telling, etc.)
VUBP · 3
THP a world where people believed that God did not intervene at all over one where God has a plan and actively intervened in human affairs
VUBP · HighSchool_Final
THW ban the use of faith-based rehabilitation in prisons
Malaysia National Intervarsity Debating Championship · Novice_Semi
THP a world where epistemic humility is universally embraced
JOVED · 3
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For the purposes of this debate, Epistemic humility is defined as the understanding that what we humans can understand and simulate about this world is limited, and embracing such limitation. It is recognizing that you may not know a great many things—and that this is natural and okay.
THBT as the Christian church would actively recognize that the dogmas taught now is different from what it was in the past
JOVED · Open_Semi
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The dominant dogmas taught in the Christian church has evolved significantly than it was in the past. A few example includes the original obligation for Christians to be circumcised being dropped and the portrayal of Jesus changing from one of a rebellious revolutionary to one of a loving carpenter which are both done to make the religion more appealing to the Romans.
THW prefer a world where the dominant religion is religion X as opposed to religion Y
Malalysia AW*DC · Open_Final
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Religion X believes followers enter heaven based on the sum total of the utility of their deeds upon the world. Religion Y believes followers enter heaven based on the quality of their character / traits and the intentions behind their actions
THW recognise religious indoctrination as a mitigating factor in criminal sentencing
Shanghai International Debate Open · HighSchool_Quarter
THP a world where people predominantly believe that free will does not exist
Shanghai International Debate Open · HighSchool_Final
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Free will is the belief that we are agents who are in ultimate and complete control over our own actions and desires.
THBT organized religious groups should formally recognize scripture that contradicts primary religious texts
Hart House IV · 4
THBT Lebanon should aim to abolish confessionalism.
JPDU Autumn Tournament · Open_Semi
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Lebanon's political system is known as confessionalism. This parcels out political power according to sectarian quotas, with each sect being led by one or several members of prominent political families. It is the product of a decades-old power-sharing arrangement among leaaders of Libya's 18 religious sects, the most important being the Sunni and Shia Muslims and Maronite Christians. In this system, political parties were formed along religious lines and each sect claimed different government ministeries. It is under the domestic and international criticism following the economic crisis and a disasterous explosion at Beirut.
THBT the quest for the meaning of life is overrated
DAV Debate Open · Open_Quarter
THP the worship and belief of multiple deities (eg. Hinduism, Chinese folk religion) to that of a single deity (e.g. Judaism, Christianity, Islam).
DAV Debate Open · Open_Quarter
THS the creation of children's literature which teaches that people are neither good nor evil
ULAB Daring Debates · 1
THBT religious leaders should lead by warning rather than lead by example
NAUDC 2020 · 5
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For the purposes of this debate, to lead by warning is to demonstrate past failures to act in accordance with good principles, and only much later admitting wrongdoing or regret. To lead by example is to demonstrate successful application of good principles in challenging situations, or consistently throughout one's life.
THO the "God's Plan" narrative
Helsinki Pro Am · Open_Final
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The "God's Plan" narrative is an idea dominant in certain monotheistic religions. It preaches that God has a broad plan for the world, and that while people may act with free will within that plan, things will ultimately resolve themselves the way that God intended.
THR the glorification of the institution of marriage
Haradali Women's Open · 2
THW allow religious indoctrination as a legitimate defense for crimes
Alsa Ecomp UI · 2
TH celebrates the racialisation of Christianity
Alsa Ecomp UI · Varsity_Quarter
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Protestantism in Christianity has many denominations across the globe. One of the major contributing factor to some formations of Christian factions is the element of race/ethnicity. In Indonesia, there are many ethnic-based churches like GKJ (Gereja Kristen Jawa), HKBP (Huria Kristen Batak Protestan), Hokimtong, etc, where the churches would adopt their original culture to the ritual. The Black Church formed in the U.S. was mainly initiated as a response to slavery in the past, and maintained its doctrines that revolves around Christianity being a narrative against racial oppression. Figures of Jesus Christ differ from one that is portrayed in China and in Africa, in which Jesus is depicted to look like the respective native inhabitants.
THBT The Vatican should accept and integrate the Darwin's Theory of Evolution in describing the origins of life
Alsa Ecomp UI · Varsity_Quarter
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Darwin's theory of evolution is commonly known as the theory of natural selection. The theory states 2 of the following important concepts. That evolution, the process by which different kinds of living organisms have developed and diversified from earlier forms during the history of the earth, exists. That the environment naturally selects whether a species survive or become extinct based on whether they're genetically equipped to survive in that environment.
As the Catholic Church, THW abolish Priesthood
Alsa Ecomp UI · HighSchool_Octa
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Priesthood is the power and authority of God given to man, including the authority to perform ordinances and to act as a leader in the church.
This House Believes That preachers of Christian faiths should actively prioritise the virtue of 'struggling with God' over 'submission to God'
Alsa Ecomp UI · HighSchool_Octa
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Genesis 32:22-31 depicts a story of Jacob wrestling with a spiritual entity (commonly presumed as an angel or God himself) to insist a blessing to be bestowed upon him. The being wrestled with Jacob till day break and touched the socket of Jacob's hip until his hip was wrenched. Jacob told the being that he wouldn't let go of him until he was given his blessing. The being said 'Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel, because you have STRUGGLED WITH GOD (in some versions: WRESTLED WITH GOD) and with humans and have overcome' and finally gave Jacob the blessing.
THO the glorification of self-reliance in creating narratives of success
Europe Queer Open · 4
THBT governments of secular democracies have an obligation to censor in parts or in whole Holy Scriptures which openly support violence and overt discrimination against minorities
Diliman Pre-ABP · 1
This House prefers a world where religions are more decentralised, as opposed to centralised (e.g. doctrinal differences existing between regions).
ANU Spring · 1b
THW prefer if personal identity was conceptionalised as relational instead of atomised
ANU Spring · Open_Final
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There are two broad ways of describing personal identity: relational and atomised. The relational self is understood as it relates to others. The nature of an individual is determined by how that individual stands in relation to others. The atomised self is one where personal identity is described as discrete and self-contained. An atomised self may interact and cooperate with others but each is a separate unit entire unto itself.
THO New Atheism
FTHN X DNN Open · 4
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New Atheism is a movement arguing that religious beliefs are not only inaccurate, but superstitious and harmful. New Atheists include Richard Dawkins, Christopher Hitchens, and Sam Harris.
THP donation-linked consumerism to conscious consumerism.
FTHN X DNN Open · Open_Final
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For the purposes of this debate, donation linked consumerism refers to the practice of making a small donation after consuming an item made by immoral organizations, people or companies, so that every time their product is consumed, an organization that helps afflicted groups also receives funding (e.g. donating to an anti-domestic violence charity after listening to the music of Chris Brown, who has been convicted of domestic violence; donating to Black Lives Matter after buying clothing from Eddie Bauer, an apparel brand that was called out for being racist towards black customers and accusing them of shoplifting; donating to United Students Against Sweatshops after buying clothing made by Nike, which is known for using sweatshops.) Conscious consumerism refers to the practice of refraining from purchasing items from immoral organizations, people or companies in any way (e.g. not listening to Chris Brown, not buying Eddie Bauer, or not buying Nike)
THW prefer a world where each believer established their own connection to God, rather than establishing one through an organised religion
English Parade 2020 · Open_Semi
THS the use of faith-based rehabilitation in prisons
LUMS Pre-ABP Online 2020 · 2
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Faith-based rehabilitation attempts to reform the conduct and patterns of behaviour of criminals through scriptural teachings, religious stories, and imparting belief in the divine. The process is directly conducted by Official Religious Figures.
TH, as a witch or wizard, would create a Horcrux
The Grand Spar: September · 4
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In the Harry Potter wizarding world, a witch or wizard can create a Horcrux which stores a portion of their soul in an external object (which can be an inanimate object, or a living animal/person) and renders them immortal. Once a Horcrux is created, the mage cannot be killed unless the Horcrux is destroyed beyond physical or magical repair. The creation of a Horcrux requires the mage to commit murder.
THW ban religious proselytisation in areas of high socioeconomic deprivation
Virtual Vancouver WSDC: Orca · 5
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Religious proselytisation is an action with an attempt to convert a community or individual into a specific religion. Often this is done by supplying resources to the people in need and inviting them to learn more about this faith and religious tradition.
THW ban religious or faith-based rehabilitation programmes in prisons
Virtual Vancouver WSDC:Caribou · 3
TH regrets the ascension of the vision of atheism promoted by Richard Dawkins. Infoslide: Richard Dawkins, in his work ""The God Delusion"" argues that the tolerance of religion causes harm to society and individuals
I Rio de Janeiro Pro-Am · 3

2019 (24 motions)

This House prefers a world where everybody believes in the concept of a sleeping God rather than an active God.
The PES Debate Open · Novice_Final
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The concept of a sleeping God is one that assumed that God has gone to sleep after creating the world and is non interventionist in human action. The concept of an active God is one that uses divine intervention in the real world. Motion: Thi
TH, as the Pope, would abolish the concept of Hell
Budapest Open 2019 · 5
THBT the scientific community should reject the view that science and religion are non-overlapping magisteria
Manchester IV 2019 · Open_Final
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"Non-overlapping magisteria" is the belief that science and religion describe fundamentally distinct aspects of human experience, and thus represent two different and equally valid modes of inquiry. According to this belief, scientific inquiry cannot, and should not, encroach on the territory of religious knowledge and experience. Motion: THB
Assuming it could be done without placing the burden of secrecy on adults, THP a world in which individuals are unaware of the existence of organized religions for the duration of their childhood.
NAW*DC · 4
THBT it is in the interest of dominant organised religions for their leaders to declare more progressive interpretations of traditional dogma* *e.g. on dietary and pilgrimage requirements, the acceptability of contraception, same-sex relationships
Athens EUDC 2019 · 4
This House, as religious individual would prefer to be a part of a religious community that proselytizes over the one that does not.
European Round Robin 2019 · 2
TH prefer a world where human life naturally ends at 50
DU IV 2019 · Open_Final
THP a world without a belief in life after death (heaven, reincarnation, past lives, hell, etc).
Hart House IV 2019 · Novice_Final
TH prefers secular governments that exclude all religion from public spaces to those that allow unlimited religious expression.
Barcelona Debating Open 2019 · 5
TH prefers a world where the majority believed in determinism over one where the majority believed in free will.
Barcelona Debating Open 2019 · Open_Final
THW ban religious arbitration courts
Vienna IV 2019 · 3
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In religious arbitration, the two parties involved in a civil dispute consent to have their dispute settled by a religious tribunal, rather than in a civil court. The decisions of the religious arbitration courts are binding.
THP a world in which religious leaders (Priests, Imams, Rabbis etc.) are not seen as having a deeper connection with religious deities (ex: God or Allah) than regular members of the faithful.
UBC IV 2019 · 4
THS THE PRACTICE OF CULTURAL CHRISTIANITY
All-Nigeria Universities Debate Championship 2019 · 4
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Cultural Christianity is a religion that is more social than spiritual. It identifies with certain aspects of Christianity, such as the good works of Jesus, but rejects the spiritual aspects required to be a biblically defined Christian ie family background, personal experience, country of residence or social environment. It also identify Christianity as a way of declaring a religious affiliation as opposed to being Muslim or Buddhist. But Cultural Christians are deists, pantheists, agnostics, atheists and anti-theists who adhere to Christ Values and appreciate Christian Culture.
That, as a Rohingya Muslim fleeing the Myanmar military, we would join ARSA. (Octo-finals) That we regret the custom of giving gifts.
Easters 2019 · Open_Quarters
THR the Reformation
Joynt Scroll 2019 · 4
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The Reformation refers to a period in the 16th century where Christians across Europe challenged the authority and teachings of the Catholic Church. It resulted in many new Protestant denominations being formed including Calvinism and Lutheranism. During this period, Henry VII founded the Church of England (Anglicanism) because the Pope refused to annul his marriage. The Catholic Church subsequently engaged in a series of reforms (the Counter-Reformation)
THBT as the Christian church would teach that the Bible is a historically-based account containing human error, rather than teaching that the Bible is the flawless work of God.
Joynt Scroll 2019 · 4
TH prefers religions that teach salvation is achieved through certain behaviours (e.g. good works, five pillars of Islam), over religions that teach salvation is achieved through faith alone.
Joynt Scroll 2019 · 4
THS the decline of religiosity
Philippines National Debate Championship 2019 · 3
THBT parents should raise their children to prioritize collectivism over individualism.
Philippines National Debate Championship 2019 · 1
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Individualism emphasizes individual autonomy and personal achievement. Collectivism focuses on establishing and nourishing relationships with other people through processes of selfless, helpful and caring behavior.
THP a world in which everyone follows this philosophy
Imperial Novices 2019 · Schools_Final
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Epicurean philosophy states that in order to be happy a person should attempt to reduce the scope of your desires to simple ones which are consistently easily achievable - e.g. Epicurus argues that one should not consume or desire fancy foods because you are not guaranteed to always have them
TH as the Catholic Church would adopt Liberation Theology
4th Mindanao Intervarsity · Open_Semi
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Liberation theology is a movement in the Roman Catholic Church that makes criticism of oppression in the form of socio-economic evils (capitalism, imperialism, feudalism, etc.) as essential to the task of Theology.
THR the glorification of martyrdom
Philippines Intervarsity Debating Championship 2019 · Open_X
THR the act of converting to the religion of your partner as a show of love
Philippines Intervarsity Debating Championship 2019 · 3
THW require isolated religious communities to have their children live outside of their communities for a certain period of time (e.g. for one or two years at the age of 15)
JPDU Spring Tournament · Open_Octa

2018 (26 motions)

TH, as an agnostic, would take the pill.
York IV · Open_Final
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There exists a pill that grants an unwavering belief in the existence of a (generic) afterlife. Motion: TH,
THBT religious institutions should to take custody of children in street situations, even without the consent of their parents
1st Copa Leones de Debate (CLD) at University of Guadalajara · 1
THW prefer a religion which preaches that one's fate in the material world is predetermined rather than one which preaches that choices influence it
Novi Sad EUDC 2018 · Open_Octos
TH prefers a world where everyone believes in free will
Joynt Scroll (NZ Prepared Debating Tournament) · Open_Final
This house would prefer a world where it is commonly believed that free will does not exist.
NZ Easters 2018 · 3
THR the increasing presence of nihilism in popular culture (eg. BoJack Horseman, Rick and Morty etc.)
Sofia Open 2018 · 5
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Nihilism is the philosophical viewpoint that suggests the denial or lack of belief towards what society believes are meaningful aspects of life. Most commonly, nihilism is presented in the form of existential nihilism, which argues that life is without objective meaning, purpose, or intrinsic value. Moral nihilists assert that there is no inherent morality, and that accepted moral values are abstract. Motion: THR
This House Believes That the Pope should be elected by Catholics around the world
China BP · Open_Semis
This House would allow individuals to sue religious institutions in their community for propagating beliefs that cause them significant harm
HWS IV 2018 · Open_Quarters
This House believes that the horrors of history are incompatible with a belief in a Judeo-Christian God
Yale IV 2018 · Novice_Final
This House would prefer a world where memory is permanent and infallible.
Hart House Inter-Varsity 2018 · 4
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Infallible' means 'incapable of being mistaken or being wrong.'
TH encourages fluidity in expressions of identity.
Penguin Invitational 2018 · Open_Semis
THW require all isolated religious communities (eg. Hasidic Jews, Jehovah's Witnesses, etc.) to give all 18-year-olds a 'Rumspringa'.
Brandeis IV · 1
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Rumspringa is an Amish tradition of sending off 18-year-olds to live in the outside world for 1 year, after which they may chose to return or not. Motion: THW
Developing countries should ban the entry of charitable organizations that tie aid or services to religious conversion.
Jewell Debate Tournament · 4
You are presented with a choice before you are born. You can be born into this world, or you can be born into a world without any religion or spirituality. Regardless of your choice, once born, you will not remember having made such a choice. THW choose to be born in a world without religion
Seattle IV 2017 · Open_Final
Where resources are significantly limited, THBT states should actively promote religion in areas of high poverty.
Cambridge IV 2018 · ESL_Semis
TH prefers a world in which all children are conceived with DNA from a global genetic database.
Cambridge IV 2018 · ESL_Final
From behind a veil of ignorance, TH would choose to not be born.
Cambridge IV 2018 · Open_Final
Info slide
The veil of ignorance is a philosophical thought experiment proposed by John Rawl. An individual behind the veil of ignorance has not been born into society yet and has no knowledge about who they will be born as (their socioeconomic class, race, nationality, etc.). The thought experiment is originally used to argue in favour of greater social equality and public good.
THR the prominence of religious rehabilitation programs in prisons
2018 Empire Debates · 5
THP a conception of human rights which derives its authority from a divine being rather than a secular source.
2018 Empire Debates · Open_Final
This House prefers a world where individuals believe salvation stems from faith alone, rather than a world where individuals believe salvation stems from a combination of faith and good works
Northams 2018 · 2
THW ban religious institutions from asking for donations from their followers.
Shanghai International Debate Open · 5
This House Would end all state financial support to religion
Macau Tournament of Champions BP IV · 1
THW not give religious identity the same level of anti discrimination protection as other protected attributes (race, gender, sexuality)
Manchester IV 2018 · 4
THBT liberals should support progressive reinterpretations of religious scriptures as opposed to actively denouncing religion as a whole.
Luzon Intervarsity 2018 · 6
THW incentivise members of religious minorities to enroll in predominantly Catholic schools
Philippines Intervarsity Debating Championship 2018 · 7
THBT people-of-color Evangelical churches should dissociate from their white Evangelical counterparts/leaders which are supportive of Trump
Philippines Intervarsity Debating Championship 2018 · 7

2017 (32 motions)

This house, as the pope, would abolish the requirement for clerical celibacy.
Dutch WUDC 2017 · ESL_Semis
This house would ban advocacy for religious belief in public places
Dutch WUDC 2017 · Open_Octos
TH, as atheists, W stop ridiculing religion
Riga mini · 2
THR the idea that life must have meaning
Galway Open 2017 · Open_Final
TH, as the Catholic church, would sell its cultural artifacts in order to fund poverty alleviation
cornell novice nationals and tournament of love · Open_Semis
This house supports the creation of all-Jewish universities in Europe
Leiden Open · 2
In the near future, scientist Thomas Harbor has discovered conclusive scientific evidence that afterlife exists. It has also been determined that it is impossible to to find out the specific nature of afterlife. Motion: TH, as Thomas Harbor, would destroy the research
Riga Mini, 2nd edition · 3
THO the dominant narrative in popular culture that there exists a soulmate for everyone
Budapest Open 2017 · Novice_Final
THW allow individuals to sue religious organizations for compensation for the harmful effects of choices made as a result of adherence to religious doctrine
Budapest Open 2017 · Open_Semis
THP a world in which all people actively believed in determinism as opposed to a world in which they believed in free will
Empire Debates · Open_Final
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Determinism refers to the doctrine that all events, including human actions and positions in society, are ultimately determined by external causes rather than individual choice. Motion: THP
TH, as a parent belonging to a minority religion, would discourage their children from expressing their faith publicly (e.g. wearing yarmulkes, hijabs or other articles of faith, etc.)
Empire Debates · 4
THW tax religious institutions
Brad Smith Debate Tournament · 1
In conservative countries, THBT the LGBT movement should actively court religious institutions
La Salle IV · Open_Final
THS the existence of dual-legal systems for minority religious communities
IIT Bombay IV · 3
Of religions that promise reward for faithful practice, THW prefer religions that promise reward will come in the afterlife as opposed to those that promise material reward in this life.
HWS North American Universities Debating Championsip · 3
THBT the EU should ban non-stun religious slaughter of animals
KCL IV 2017 · 3
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The EU requires that all healthy animals are stunned (rendered insensitive to pain) before slaughter, except in the cases of religious slaughter. The majority of Kosher and Halal meat comes from animals that were fully conscious at the time of slaughter. Motion: THB
Assuming it was logistically feasible, THW randomly swap all newborn babies at birth.
Durham IV · 3
TH, as the Church of England, would withdraw from the Anglican Communion
Durham IV · Open_Final
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The Anglican communion is the fourth largest Christian communion, consisting of 85 million members. Its largest member is the Church of England and contains a variety of regional and national churches. This includes more liberal churches like the Church of Canada, and less liberal churches like the Church of Uganda. In recent years, there have been efforts to codify the communion, and to unify doctrine over issues such as same-sex marriage and the ordination of women
THW ban the creation of all artificial conscious beings.
Oxford IV 2017 · ESL_Final
Info slide
For the sake of this debate, consciousness is any subjective experience (including sensory experiences, feelings, thoughts and desires). It is everything that we assume humans experience, but forks do not. HYPOTHETICAL SLIDE: research of AI and the nature of consciousness has advanced to the extent that we are now capable of enabling or disabling consciousness in all our artificial intelligences and robots. Enabling consciousness does not change the behavior or decisions of said robot in any way - only allows them to subjectively experience what they're going through, rather than being mechanical machines "with the lights out".
This house prefers a world in which all religions believe in Universal Salvation
Cambridge IV 2017 · 4
TH prefers a world without a concept of an afterlife.
Munich Open 2017 · 5
TH supports the increasing secularisation of the world.
Newcastle IV 2017 · Open_Final
This house believes that secular democracies with substantial religious communities should create special courts where issues can be settled on the basis of religious law
Leiden Novices' Tournament 2017 · Open_Final
Info slide
Religious law refers to ethical and moral codes taught by religious traditions. Examples include Christian canon law, Islamic sharia, Jewish halakha, and Hindu law. Religious law generally decides on particular issues that are important to religion, for example divorces, cases of adultery, ritual prohbitions, dietary norms, how to handle financial disputes etc. In certain countries, there exist courts that decide on particular issues based on religious law. For example in the UK, there exist Sharia councils and Jewish Beth Din courts. In the US, there exists the Judicial Council of the United Methodist church. For these courts to have jurisdiction, both parties in the dispute need to consent to the jurisdiction of the court. These courts can be seen as a form of arbitration.
This House would prefer a world without religious belief.
International Competition for Young Debaters, Finals Day, 2017 · 3
THW ban tithing - Round 5
NZ Easters 2017 · 5
THW require religious organisations to elect their leaders - Round 5
NZ Easters 2017 · 5
THW choose to be born in a world without religion
Seattle IV 2017 · Open_Final
Info slide
You are presented with a choice before you are born. You can be born into this world, or you can be born into a world without any religion or spirituality. Regardless of your choice, once born, you will not remember having made such a choice. Motion: THW c
Imagine that you and you alone discover irrefutable proof that there is no afterlife (including reincarnation). Unless you share the proof, the secret dies with you. THW not share the proof.
Denver IV 2017 · 4
THW stop teaching children that all opinions are valid
Western Regionals 2017 · 2
TH, as God, would end the human population now
BDC Pro Ams 2017 · Open_Final
THR the ridicule and demonisation of guru-based religious orders
NALSAR IV · Open_Final
THW ban all forms of religious proselytization and faith-based rehabilitation programs in prison
NALSAR IV · 1

2016 (7 motions)

This house believes that the global Anglican church should split into two churches, rather than maintain a single communion.
York IV · 4
This house would allow people to opt into religious structures with the power to punish them in this life (e.g., Beth Din courts, or Sharia courts) for infractions.
York IV · Open_Semis
This House Opposes Laicité
Trinity IV · 5
This House prefers a world where the conception of the afterlife is based on karmic balance, rather than divine mercy
John Smith Memorial Mace - English Leg · 5
Info slide
When evaluating the immortal soul, Karmic Balance is a weighing up of the good and bad actions you've done throughout your life, whereas Divine Mercy is the promise of benevolent forgiveness for all earthly transgressions.
THW ban religious or faith-based rehabilitation programmes in prison
Swansea Open · 1
THW ban fortune telling
Leiden Open · 1
To proselytise means to attempt to convert others to your beliefs. This House believes that atheists should proselytise
Nottingham Open · 4

Motions are free. Judged rounds are the product.

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