Debating has become somewhat of an elitist discipline. It is practised most at top schools and universities, meaning many young people miss out on the opportunity to learn how to debate effectively. Learning to debate can open up a range of career opportunities by encouraging critical thinking, a clear writing style for essays and speeches, and confidence in speaking to large groups.

This book aims to introduce young people to debating and an overview of the themes they will likely encounter.

The Greater London Youth Foundation has been running debating sessions face to face and online for many years. Over this time, various philosophical, political, and social ideas and concepts have come up. Often, time does not allow for in-depth tuition during sessions. We don’t expect everyone to know everything about everything. After all, knowledge is a work in progress, but this book will give a basic grounding to debaters and those who would like a reminder about some topics. There’s an A-Z of definitions and a few notable people who have significantly influenced the world. Although a slim volume, there are also more than 100 debate topics that we have used during our sessions for you to try.

Eve Baker is the Chief Executive Officer and Founder of the Greater London Youth Foundation, a charity for young people. She is a writer, psychologist, therapist, lecturer, and consultant in youth work studies and management.