Spreading (debate)

Spreading is the act of speaking extremely fast during a competitive debating event, with the intent that one's opponent will be penalised for failing to respond to all arguments raised. It is a portmanteau of "speed" and "reading".[1]

The prevalence of spreading is attributed to the fact that "failing to answer all opposing arguments" is an easy criterion for judges to award a win on. Speaking fast and fielding an overwhelming number of distinct arguments is a viable strategy.[2]

The behavior has been recorded in United States debating societies.

See also
  • Gish gallop – Debating technique based on overwhelming the opponent with specious arguments to waste their time

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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