Debate is contention in argument; strife, dissension, quarrelling, controversy; especially a formal discussion of subjects before a public assembly or legislature, in Parliament or in any deliberative assembly.[1]
Debate is a method of formally presenting an argument in a disciplined manner.[Is this a fact or an opinion?] Through logical consistency, factual accuracy and some degree of emotional appeal to the audience are elements in debating, where one side often prevails over the other party by presenting a superior "context" and/or framework of the issue. The outcome of a debate may depend upon consensus or some formal way of reaching a resolution, rather than the objective facts.[according to whom?] In a formal debating contest, there are rules for participants to discuss and decide on differences, within a framework defining how they will interact.
Debating is carried out in assemblies of various types to discuss matters and to make resolutions about action to be taken, often by voting.[citation needed] Deliberative bodies such as parliaments, legislative assemblies, and meetings of all sorts engage in debates. In particular, in parliamentary democracies a legislature debates and decides on new laws. Formal debates between candidates for elected office, such as the leaders debates that are sometimes held in democracies.[citation needed] Debating is also carried out for educational and recreational purposes, usually associated with educational establishments and debating societies.[2][citation needed] The major goal of the study of debate as a method or art is to develop the ability to debate rationally from either position with equal ease.[Is this a fact or an opinion?]
Informal and forum debate is relatively common, shown by TV shows such as the Australian talk show, Q&A,[according to whom?] the quality and depth of a debate improves with the knowledge and skills of its participants as debaters.[original research?] The outcome of a contest may be decided by audience vote, by judges, or by some combination of the two.[citation needed]