YOU LISTEN. YOU DECIDE.
The audience hears the case for each side and votes on a verdict via smart phone and tablet!

Democracy on Trial is a next-generation debate platform that stresses enlightened ethical and rational conversations about important social issues. Its mission is to create a “Pathway to Resolution” whereby contrasting perspectives are closely examined to produce optimal solutions which bridge ideological differences. Inspired by the leading political ideas of the past and modeled on the courtroom metaphor: 1) advocates “make the case” for solutions to social and political challenges, 2) a moderator/judge ensures that the conversation maintains an ethical and rational focus, and 3) the audience/jury votes on a final “verdict” and offers commentary.

Tonight's topic: General Welfare. To what extent has the well-being of citizens been achieved through government actions vs. through capitalism and free markets?

Advocating for more government intervention: Jared Abbott, Ph.D. student in Political Science at Temple University.
Advocating for the free market: Andrew Barnard, Ph.D student in Political Science at the University of Pennsylvania