Debate Night: Pain

Pain, that inevitable part of life we always try to escape, only for it to catch up with us again at the end of our autobiographical story.
In behavioral biology, it may be seen as the internal mechanism that allows organisms with nervous systems to avoid damaging stimuli.
In medicine, it becomes the signal that sends us to a doctor, prompting treatments that range from the safe but ineffective to the addictive yet all too effective.
In psychology, it appears as the mental and emotional responses shaped by negative events, whether long past or painfully recent.

So should we continue our fight against pain?
Or is it time to lower our arms and accept that perhaps pleasure cannot exist without it?

This debate will follow a British Parliamentary format with eight debaters split into four teams of two.

Participants who wish to speak are highly encouraged to bring a paper and pen. You are welcome to participate even if you have no prior debating experience.

We aim for debates that are respectful, constructive, and welcoming:

• Respect ideas and people Listen actively, stay quiet while others speak, and debate arguments, not identities or beliefs.
• Be concise and civil Keep questions short and relevant; avoid hostility, hate speech, or discrimination.
• Respect boundaries and time No unwanted advances or suggestive behavior; arrive on time to avoid disrupting the debate.
• Follow moderators They guide the discussion and ensure fairness.