Group 65 Debate Framework

Visions Group 65
The Great Decriminalization
Debate
Vanderbilt Visions
Fall 2009

Agenda
Welcome
4:00 – 4:10 Welcome and Survey
4:11 – 4:14 Introductory Remarks
After
4:47 – 4:50 Audience Survey
4:50 - ???
Discussion
matt.hall@vanderbilt.edu
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The Debate (4:15)
4:16 – 4:19 Group For: Opening Remarks
4:20 – 4:22 Group Against: Opening Remarks
4:23 – 4:26 Group For: Arguments
4:27 – 4:30 Group Against: Arguments
4:31 – 4:34 Group For: Response
4:35 – 4:38Group Against: Response
4:39 – 4:42 Group For: Closing Remarks
4:43 – 4:46 Group Against: Closing Remarks

Why a Debate?
Promotes Civil Discourse
Democracy thrives on Debate
We must know how to debate
Technology Polarizes
Far Right / Far Left Blogs
Internet allows for selection of sides
Talk Radio
Talk Shows
We must re-engage civil society
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The Oxford Style Debate
A proposition is put forward
The audience states its collective stance
The debate occurs
3 rounds of 3 minutes
For and against
Open, Response, Close
The audience states its collective stance
The side that has the greatest movement wins the debate
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Decriminalization by Region
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Marijuana in TN
In TN, possession of Marijuana is a Class A Misdemeanor and can carry with it a fine of up to $2,500 and a jail sentence of up to 11 months and 29 days.
Issues to Consider
Health, Benefits, Toxicity, and Addiction
Gateway to Others
Criminal Justice System
Impact on Communities
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The Proposition
TCA 39-17-408 Schedule II Controlled Substances
TCA 39-17-417 Controlled Substances Offenses
The state of TN should decriminalize the marijuana offenses outlined in the above two statutes.
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Further Information
Links
http://delicious.com/matthew_hall4/Group65
Youtube Videos:
http://tinyurl.com/marijuanadebate
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