In our current polarized climate, it can seem like America is permanently in a state of political conflict. Off-hand remarks often spark fierce screaming matches on social media, and public opinion surveys show partisanship is high and trust in institutions is low. But while political debate can be divisive, the research suggests that people generally view their experience of it as positive.
Debates are a unique form of conversation, where the participants have a chance to express their views in front of an audience that can react and make up its mind. This gives candidates an opportunity to bolster their message and gain support from voters, as well as to test and challenge the ideas of the other candidate.
Students can explore a range of issues related to the format and production of debates. For example, what is the effect of split screen and cut-away shots? How are audience members included, if at all? What effects are created by use of music and other production techniques?
In addition to discussing the general framework of debates, students can investigate how the moderators are chosen and how questions are selected. The CPD selects moderators based on three criteria: familiarity with the candidates and major campaign issues; extensive live television news broadcast experience; and an understanding that debate should focus on the candidates, their plans and positions on the issues. The CPD does not share the topics or questions with the candidates and campaigns before the debates.