Salient. An Organ of Student Opinion at Victoria College, Wellington, N.Z. Vol. 10, No. 1. February 28, 1947

Logic Chopping

Logic Chopping

At Victoria, debating ranks high as a popular indoor sport. In fact, if we have developed any traditions at all, then debating is one of them. In the gymnasium, important issues have been hammered at for many years now. But in order that it may carry on, the Debating Society always requires fresh members, whether speaking or listening. It appeals to all freshers to take as active a part as possible in its activities. If you have an opinion on a subject, let's hear it, because it may throw a fresh light on the issue. Don't be frightened out by hearing better speakers than yourself. They all started sometime, and most were probably worse than you at first.

All shades of thought will find their representatives in the VUC Debating Society, but don't expect it ever to decide something once and for all. That is not its function. It aims at getting all aspects of a subject so that a broad whole may emerge. If you have any subject you think should be debated, hand it in to the committee for consideration. If you desire to speak, hand your name in. This year an attempt will be made to stage freshers' debates on pre-war lines in order that new speakers may gain courage in a quieter atmosphere than usually obtains.

This year the demand for space in the gym. exceeds previous years, so it may not be easy to stage a full programme. Those wanting to qualify for Plunket Medal are urged to take part in as many debates as possible early in the year. The Annual Meeting will be held on the second Wednesday in term, March 12, at eight o'clock in the downstairs gym. The first debate will be held on March 28.

The committee will have a good topical subject and looks forward to out doing last year's opening, when 350 strained the tea and biscuit supply at the opening debate.

For those who hope to shine at talking there are various inducements. A copy of the rules will be available later for those wanting them, but there are the Union and New Speaker's Prizes for debating and the Plunket Medal for oratory. The Concert Chamber has been booked for July 12 for the Plunket Medal. Later in the year, Wellington will be host for the annual New Zealand Joynt Scroll debating contest and triennial Bledisloe Medal Oratory Contest.

The Society's committee can only plan according to the support it receives, so come along in force to ensure that 1947 ranks as an outstanding year in debating history at VUC.