Problem is, we need more true debate

Jim Slusher's thoughtful essay about the ideal of a "more perfect union" being based on faith in debate seems to be based on a shaky premise. Is there any faith in debate in today's American culture? Not in Congress, where deals are cut and votes lined up without any substantive debate in either the House or the Senate.

Not in our courts of law, where the vast majority of cases are settled by plea bargaining, not by a process where evidence is presented, arguments articulated and a judge or jury decides.

Not on editorial pages, where political columns are unencumbered by rebuttals or objective analysis. Indeed, rigorous debates where evidence-based constructive speeches are presented, debaters cross examine the opposition, and rebuttals provide refutation and critical analysis, are extracurricular activities supported by only a small number of high schools and include a small number of student participants.

How can faith in debate become more of a pillar of our democratic culture? Point-counterpoint discussion in both print and broadcast media would help. Integrating the rigorous tools of debate into high school curricula for all students, including debating both sides of issues, would help.

And replacing the "Presidential debate" circuses with traditional debate formats would be a positive step. Without initiatives like these, faith in debate will remain at a low level and our democracy will remain stuck in its current quagmire.

George Peternel

Arlington Heights