Take My Point!™ (Debate Game)

This event moves away from the usual, competitive debate format toward a more cooperative style, encouraging growth through shared understanding. "Take My Point!" carries a double meaning: on one hand, players also score by conceding strong arguments from others, turning acceptance into a winning move. On the other hand, it alludes to the ancient Greek method of discourse, where philosophers like Socrates sought truth by trying to absorb the best arguments from all sides. Here, acknowledging the strength of an opponent’s point is seen as an opportunity for intellectual growth, rather than a loss, capturing the game's spirit of building knowledge together.

Note that this event is cohosted with Joy in Being Wrong, and there is a board game group that meets in the same area. We'll be talking in the couch area in the back, behind the pool table.

We're in the early stages of designing the game and will test out the rules below. Here is an early iteration of the game's rules:

## Rules

Try a new debate game that rewards conceding logical points.
### Game Title: Take My Point!
Number of Players: 4-10
Game Duration: 30-60 minutes
Contents:

• 1 Moderator Guide
• 100 Debate Cards with topics
• 1 Timer
• 1 Scoreboard
• Dry erase markers
• Rules Booklet
• Internet-enabled device for research (optional)

Objective:
Sharpen your debating skills by presenting compelling arguments, making insightful concessions, and utilizing fact-checking to strengthen your points. Earn the most points by demonstrating intellectual humility, adaptability, and depth of knowledge.
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### Setup:

1. Choose a Moderator: Rotate the moderator role each round to give everyone a chance to participate.
2. Draw a Debate Card: Select a topic from the deck to begin the round.
3. Assign Sides: Split into two teams, with each team supporting one side of the argument.

### Game Play:
#### Round Structure:

• Research Phase (5 minutes): Teams use this time to research their topic using an internet-enabled device. No arguing or discussing with the opposing team during this phase.
• Phase 1 – Initial Argument (5 minutes): Each team presents their arguments, supporting their side of the topic.
• Phase 2 – Argument Switch (5 minutes): Teams switch sides and argue from the opposite perspective.

#### Scoring:

• Arguments: Each convincing argument earns 2 points.
• Concessions: Each meaningful concession earns 3 points.
• Fact-Checking Bonus: Correctly use a verified fact (academic journals) to support an argument challenged by the opponent team, or sucessfully refute an opponent will add 2 extra points per fact.

Intellectual Honesty Bonus: If one of your arguments is not challenged by an opponent, and you admit that it is merely not supported by evidence, you earn 3 points. Earn 5 points if you find empirical evidence actually refuting one of your own unchallenged points.

#### Special Rules:

• Interruption Policy: Each team is allowed one free interruption per round to challenge or question the opponent. Subsequent interruptions cost 1 point each.
• Concession Window: After each argument phase, there is a 1-minute concession window where teams can acknowledge the strong points made by their opponents. This does not count against their argument time.

### Winning the Game:
After completing the designated number of rounds, tally the scores on the scoreboard. The player or team with the highest score wins, showcasing their ability to argue persuasively, adapt their views, and utilize facts effectively.
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### Tips for Success:

• Use Research Time Wisely: Focus on gathering key facts that directly support your arguments or can potentially refute the opposition.
• Balance Arguments and Concessions: While making strong arguments is crucial, thoughtful concessions can yield higher points and demonstrate a deep understanding of the topic.
• Manage Interruptions Strategically: Use your free interruption wisely to make significant points or queries that can alter the course of the debate.

### Conclusion:
The game is designed for players who enjoy rigorous debate and the process of exploring and understanding complex issues. This game challenges participants to think critically, react adaptively, and engage respectfully, making it a perfect choice for intellectual entertainment and educational purposes.
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This streamlined set of rules ensures that each element of the game—from research to argumentation to scoring—is clearly defined, making it easy for new players to understand and enjoy the game.