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theyoungdem won the Face Off.

USA Pit Bull 63 vs theyoungdem

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Ties: 1
Cleveland suburb, OH
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Face Offs: 37
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Ashburn, VA
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This web site should create a real-time chat feature, which would include the opportunity for real-time debates, moderated and voted on by other users

USA Pit Bull 63 said 04/24, 11:09 AM
Stemming from the recent voting controversies and conspiracy theories, I propose an idea that---while not eliminating voter fraud for the current method of voting---would at least provide an opportunity for users to think on their feet and demonstrate true debate skills, as well as a validated system for scoring.

I propose a real-time chat feature, like a lobby/lounge, where users can discuss the issues without having to create threads of 30+ messages on each topic.

But I also propose a special real-time debate forum/format, where a date/time can be set, and perhaps a three-(or some number-)judge panel can observe a live debate of similar style to the current format. Both a character, and a time, limit could be imposed upon each side.

Perhaps others can watch the debate, but not comment/intervene unless they opted to be a judge. After the debate, the judge panel votes for who won --- AND A DETAILED EXPLANATION FOR WHY.

However, after the debate ends, the 3 main arguments from each debater can be transferred to a message-board style posting, like the status quo. Users can vote like normal, and after a few days, both the user vote total and judge results are revealed.

theyoungdem said 04/24, 07:08 PM
That's a good idea. Though, if that would not be possible and people still feel insecure about voting controversies and conspiracies, then the sight should get a panel of say twenty people who aren't debaters but simply vote for the best debaters...that sounds a little unrealistic but if people are so worried, that is the only way we can ensure fairness.

USA Pit Bull 63 said 04/24, 07:25 PM
Thanks, youngdem. It still might not be 100% fair all of the time, but at least it would be accountable, and I think people could easily accept the validity of transparent debates and voting procedures.

Those chosen as judges could also be the moderators and take turns asking the debaters questions (maybe one question for each debater, per judge). Perhaps there could be a ''town forum'' system of questioning; for example, those observing the debate could submit questions to the judges, and the three judges could determine which ones to ask. Or candidates can agree to take a question from one observer at a time, based on random ordering given to observers/users once the debate begins.

While I love the democratic way of never HAVING to reveal your vote or explain why, for the purposes of this site, it would be a great way for not only competitors---but also judges---to articulate their rationale behind their decisions. (And of course, it would be voluntary---as no one would be forced to judge.)

I think it would be interesting to see how the user vote totals compare to the judges'; remember, the judges' votes/rationale would be confidential until after both votes close.

theyoungdem said 04/24, 07:42 PM
Yea, I like your idea of having a chat though. Since you have a point we'd then be debating as we would in real live debates, having to think on our feet and defending our point, while on here we can take advantage of the two day period of which we can conjure up a valid statement. If real debates on t.v. were that long...lets hope they are never that long.

USA Pit Bull 63 said 04/24, 10:35 PM
I'm not saying my proposal should replace the current format, but it could be an additional section to the site. Perhaps it could be a sister site. But it's definitely possible.

It would maximize the best features of the current format. I don't really know what else to say about it, as this is just the beta idea. :)

I, too, am glad televised debates don't last several days. It's hard enough sometimes getting through two hours, especially when we've seen them twenty times already.

Well, let me know what you think of the idea, folks. Thanks for your ideas, too, youngdem.

If we can't make it happen, at least it's a good idea, right?

theyoungdem said 04/27, 03:47 PM
Oh sorry, I forgot about this debate.

But yeah I seriously think we need change in this site, there is alot of potential in it.

Let's all email Time

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I wish I could vote against both of you for this one.

majestik | 04/24/08

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USA Pit Bull 63 vs theyoungdem

This web site should create a real-time chat feature, which would include the opportunity for real-time debates, moderated and voted on by other users

theyoungdem beat USA Pit Bull 63 5 to 3

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