UC Debating Society (DebSoc)

About

DebSoc is the University of Canterbury Debating Society. It is the oldest society on campus (founded in 1878) and actually hosted Canterbury's first social event (the Debating Society Dance). DebSoc aims to develop critical analysis, persuasive skills, and public speaking in an informal environment.

Membership is open to all University of Canterbury students, and the society includes students studying a wide range of subjects. DebSoc is particularly useful for students looking to foster skills such as analytical argument, reasoning by analogy and public speaking.

DebSoc offers members the chance to participate and learn the art of debating through a range of events. These include DebSoc's fortnightly amateur tournament (the JB Cup) which exposes beginner and intermediate debaters to a range of styles in a relaxed environment. Also offered are development nights for more experienced speakers aiming to hone their skills in preparation for serious competition. Externally, DebSoc represents Canterbury University at a number of tournaments, both nationally and internationally.

Canterbury DebSoc caters to a range of abilities from beginners looking to improve their confidence, to international competition at the highest levels.

Consider joining if...
You have good chat, or if you think it will be useful to be able to stand up in front of people and make coherent arguments (hint: it will be). Don’t worry if you’ve never done anything like this before. We will teach you (and we are gentle).

Key Events