The best debates I’ve seen are by Intelligence Squared. John Donovan appears to be a very skilled moderator. Watching him cut off debaters or re-route the conversation is a pleasure, and shows the difference between an excellent moderator and a passable moderator.
I don’t know all the factors that contribute to Intelligence Squared debates, but I suspect that the pre- and post-debate audience voting, choice of debaters, and good moderation contribute a lot.
The best debates I’ve seen are by Intelligence Squared. John Donovan appears to be a very skilled moderator. Watching him cut off debaters or re-route the conversation is a pleasure, and shows the difference between an excellent moderator and a passable moderator.
I don’t know all the factors that contribute to Intelligence Squared debates, but I suspect that the pre- and post-debate audience voting, choice of debaters, and good moderation contribute a lot.