DB8 Speech & Debate Academy
Unit 7 · Lesson 1 6 min

Questioning & Interaction 1

The Value is the moral goal you want the judge to maximize. Justice, autonomy, morality, security.

Pick something measurable

'Happiness' is too vague. 'Individual autonomy' is sharper — judges can actually test it.

Value ≠ topic

If the topic is healthcare, your Value isn't 'healthcare.' It's something like 'human dignity' or 'societal welfare.'

Pro pick

Veterans often default to Justice or Morality — pick something less expected (e.g. 'epistemic responsibility') to force opponents off-script.

Quick Check
  1. 1. A Value is:

  2. 2. True or False?

    "'Happiness' is a strong, debate-ready Value."

Answer all 2 to check.

Takeaway

The Value sets the moral target. Pick something concrete enough to argue.