Evidence

  • Date 2022-07-18

General Definition: In debate, a supporting argument for why a claim is true, including examples, logic, studies, data, or expert opinion. Evidence may also refer to research in prepped debates. See also “Justification” and “Warrant“.

  • Public Forum: see general definition.
  • World Schools Debate: In WSD, research is not prioritized as much as analysis in “Prepared Motions“, and is not allowed at all for “Impromptu Motions“. The term “Evidence”, however, may still be used to refer generally to supporting arguments. 
  • British Parliamentary: In BP, research is not allowed for “Impromptu Motions”, although the term “Evidence” may still be used refer generally to supporting arguments. 
  • Canadian National Debate Format: In CNDF, research is not prioritized as much as analysis in “Prepared Motions”, and is not allowed at all for “Impromptu Motions”. The term “Evidence”, however, may still be used to refer generally to supporting arguments.