Debate vs Declamation
Although we can view both debate and declamation as formal addresses made by individuals, there are certain differences between them. First, let us define the two words. A debate is a formal discussion on a specific topic, where individuals present opposing views. On the other hand, a declamation is a formal speech that contains a lot of emotion. The key difference between a debate and a declamation is that while a declamation reveals the ideals and a particular point of view of the speaker, a debate presents some opposing views on a single topic. This conflict in ideas cannot be seen in a declamation. This is the key difference between a debate and a declamation. Through this article, let us examine the difference further.
What is a Debate?
A debate is a formal discussion on a specific topic, where individuals present opposing views. In a debate, there are a number of individuals. Within a limited period, each presents his view along with facts. Facts play a key role in debates because it emphasizes that the argument that the individual is making has a rational, factual basis.
Once the individual has created his stance and established a logical and factual basis, he attempts to disprove the opposing views as well. In a debate, there is less room for emotional and ideological opinions. However, it allows the audience to be more informed about the particular topic as they listen to conflicting views. A declamation, however, is very different to a debate.
What is a Declamation?
A declamation can simply be understood as a formal speech that contains a lot of emotion. Unlike a normal speech, the specialty of a declamation is that it is an emotional speech, which has the potential to arouse a reaction in the audience. This is mainly because it creates an emotional connection between the speaker and the audience. The speaker can use various gestures and even verbal attacks in a declamation. The main feature of a declamation is that it presents the ideals of an individual. It may not be a speech full of facts, but a speech that can spur a reaction in others.
When paying attention to the world history, there are number of instances where declamations have been made by famous figures. These speeches have been able to reach across and influence the ideas of the public. One of the famous examples for declamations is the speech made by Martin Luther King (‘I have a dream’).
What is the difference between Debate and Declamation?
Definitions of Debate and Declamation:
Debate: A debate is a formal discussion on a specific topic, where individuals present opposing views.
Declamation: A declamation can simply be understood as a formal speech that contains a lot of emotion.
Characteristics of Debate and Declamation:
Number of Participants:
Debate: A debate needs a number of individuals with opposing views.
Declamation: A declamation is made by a single individual.
Debate: A debate is not an emotional speech.
Declamation: A declamation is an emotional speech.
Facts vs Emotions:
Debate: A debate does not use emotions to create a reaction in the audience. Instead, it presents facts.
Declamation: A declamation creates a reaction in the audience through emotional arousal.
- Debate by Eduardo Frei Ruiz Tagle (CC BY 2.0)
- Martin Luther King Jr. – I have a Dream speech by David Erickson (CC BY 2.0)