Lincoln-Douglas Debate from First Principles

A short primer for the activity.

Ethan Nathaniel Elasky

Abstract

This book will cover every aspect of becoming a great debater. Skills in charisma, sound, organization, micro-argumentation, macro-argumentation, research, argument resolution, and strategy are all necessary. They’re mainly achievable through high-quality and deliberate practice.

Changelog

10 September 2025 : First edition.

Acknowledgements

I would like to thank the people who helped me directly with this project. A major shoutout to Scott Phillips, for answering my detailed questions and for writing the HS Impact blog, which I cite extensively.

I would also like to acknowledge those who have significantly influenced my thoughts about debate, whether through lab, coaching sessions or writing. An incomplete list: Whit Jackson, Paras Kumar, Raffi Piliero, David Asafu-Adjaye, Jacob Nails, Danielle and David Dosch.

Additionally, thank you to the contributors on GitHub who helped improve this project.