Debate vs Argue

I enjoy a good debate, a meeting of the minds with opposing viewpoints, driven by the desire to prevail. Passionately powerful yet informative and respectful. How about you, do you like debates? More often than not an argument is referred to as a debate, but they are not the same, do you know why?

According to an online dictionary: 

A debate is a formal discussion on a particular topic in a public meeting in which opposing arguments are put forward. And an argument is an exchange of diverging or opposing views, typically a heated or angry one. 

Sounds pretty much the same, doesn't it? particularly since the word argument is used in the definition of debate. And emphasis is placed on both having opposing viewpoints. But in my opinion, there are key elements that make them different. The first being emotion and the other being the takeaway.

Emotion is defined as a natural instinctive state of mind deriving from one's circumstances, mood or relationship with others. While takeaway is defined as a key point, or idea to be remembered, typically one emerging from a discussion or meeting. 

Though logically a debate and an argument are based in opposing viewpoints an argument is typically fueled by emotion not logic and as such lacks the formal courtesies that a debate must have to be effective. Also, the takeaway from an argument is likely to be clouded by emotional turmoil whereas the takeaway from a debate usually invokes reflection, thought and if really well done, growth. See the difference? 

Look at it this way, in an argument, emotion causes tempers to flare, and pretty soon one person takes the defensive while the other the offensive. But it solves nothing, points of views are not conveyed, and rationality is out the window. However, in a debate there is time allotted for opposing viewpoints as well as rebuttals, emotion may be present, but it is not the driving force. The driving force is the desire to present an irrefutable case based on logic and facts in order to win over and or quiet your opponent. A good debate should foster learning, thought and growth for both the debaters and the observers. 

Do you agree?

KEC

aka Deo Volente

12/27/2025