Spreading (debate)

Spreading is a term used in competitive debating in the United States—a portmanteau of speed reading—to refer to competitors speaking extremely fast.[1]

The prevalence of spreading is attributed to 'failing to answer all opposing arguments' being an easy criteria for judges to award a win on, thus speaking fast and fielding an overwhelming number of distinct arguments is a viable strategy.[2]

Its usage is prevalent in both policy debating and the varsity level of debate. It is common practice for one who is spreading to 'flash' (give a copy of their case on a flash drive) to their opponent.

References

  1. ↑ McCordick, Jack (26 September 2017). "The Corrosion of High School Debate—And How It Mirrors American Politics". American Magazine.
  2. ↑ "Debatable". Radiolab. 11 March 2016.
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