Debate and Discussion
For more formal discussion for politics, religion, current affairs and other matters
364 topics in this forum
-
- 4 replies
- 977 views
my subject choices are as follows: Math HL Econ HL Eng HL Psy SL Phy SL Spanish ab careers I'm considering are journalism or economics, with the off chance of law. Any advice?
Last reply by footballfan12, -
- 44 replies
- 4.7k views
I'm doing a TOK presentation, about the Theory of Evolution, and I, obviously, need to relate it to TOK. So I was wondering why people did/did not believe in the Theory of Evolution. There is two types of arguments, the classic arguments, and the others ( Why people think differently) which I have assiociated with those ways of knowing: Reason, Intuition and faith So, could you answer the question which is in the Topic Title, and give reasons why?
Last reply by Richard Bankole, -
- 23 replies
- 2.6k views
As we know unfortunatley racism still exist and is still a problem in places such as U.S, Australia and South Africa, why do you think its still here and what can be done about it
Last reply by OMGIBISFUN, -
- 8 replies
- 1.6k views
Hi Guys As you probably know, being an IB student, taking hard IB subjects (like literature, Hl math, physics or sciences) means quote heavy sleep deprivation and sleeping really little on a daily basis, even on weekends. I've gone many long nights doing work and I would stay up all night doing work if I could and weren't so tired during the day. All the lack of sleep made me think: Should we eliminate sleep in the future? I mean about 1/3 of all our life is devoted to sleep (8 hours a day average), so if scientists focus on a way so that we don't have to sleep any longer and don't have any negative consequences, it would be the equivalent of living about 30 years longer…
Last reply by Emilia1320, -
- 6 replies
- 1.4k views
To what extent do you agree with this statement.
Last reply by turtle turtle, -
- 14 replies
- 1.8k views
I recently discussed with a person, who tought that art is utterly useless, and all public arts funding should be stopped. I don't fully agree, since art may not be useful, but some things can be done just because one wants, just like others enjoy sports or mathematics. Please share your toughts and don't feel offended by this topic, I just want some toughts and discussion. If you feel poll is lacking something let me know and I can add it ^^
Last reply by THEliberator, -
- 6 replies
- 1.5k views
Dear readers, Welcome to this discussion it's a very weird topic and its been bothering me since the day i was managed to ask questions. Have you ever thought about the very beginning of time and the universe, I myself am not a very big believer in god and religion, it's not my thing. I am in love with Physics and to me it's a key in answering a lot of this big questions. The main question's that has been bothering me is what was before the big bang? How did energy just come to be (as stated in Conservation of Matter in chemistry is that matter can't be created or destroyed.) so how did this matter come to "life"? When exactly did time start, was it before the Big Bang …
Last reply by Vioh, -
Technology is good for the individual?
by Guest Ngod- 5 replies
- 1.4k views
I need some points that oppose the statement: Technology is detrimental to the individual. Explain points that you give if you can.
Last reply by IB_taking_over, -
- 0 replies
- 670 views
So a couple of days ago, this video was uploaded depicting some kids in a school bus bullying a Sikh boy. You hear the little girl calling him a "Terrorist" repeatedly. This happened in the US state of Georgia. So he was assumed to be Muslim, who is to blame for this lack of awareness? Parents, teachers or the kids themselves? And, how do you think discrimination based on race and religion can be effectively curbed in a multicultural society such as the US? Looking forward to reading your responses!
Last reply by Great Polar Bear, -
- 7 replies
- 1.4k views
I was looking up some stuff that we'd discussed in class about how far technology has advanced that there are robots taking over our jobs. There are Dr. Robots, construction robots, cleaning robots...etc. And the stats make it scary to think that in the next 20, 35, 50 years, many humans won't be needed to do these jobs. What will happen to our economies? How would that affect the human state of mind (depression, laziness)? Any thoughts on this arguably scary prospect that we could find ourselves in during our working years?
Last reply by Great Polar Bear, -
- 16 replies
- 1.5k views
I was thinking about this. I mean, society expects girls to be soft, pretty, thin etc. and expects guys to be strong, muscular, emotionless. I've been lucky that my parents dont really care about that, and ive had a chance to show emotion all the time, but I have friends whose parents have been like "your a boy, you shouldnt cry". or "Your a girl, if your not thin, what will people say?" So what do you guys think? Is society unreasonable?
Last reply by Great Polar Bear, -
So a lot of people at my school have been talking about how if someone doesn't work hard, but still gets an A in a class (without cheating), they don't deserve the grade as much as someone who has to study a lot to get the same grade. I know how it feels to be on both sides, as certain subjects are challenging for me while others are more intuitive, and I found this almost offensive. Curious to hear other people's thoughts on this.
Last reply by geiszlers, -
-
- 3 replies
- 1.1k views
Hi guys! Title of this topic might seem a little bit harsh, but so is my opinion. Here we go, me I don't know really how many times already I have came into contact with the following: IB really wants student to know about poor and exploited. German B SL, I had two classes about how the jeans in their process of production are made all over the world often by poor and overused people, so then they can be found in Europe with attractive prices. Or there was a class bout the cacao platations workers in Ivory Coast in Africa, paid nothing for their hard work. Then it was in economics, when we have wathced a one hour long video about coffee production, and how giant corporat…
Last reply by yii yann, -
- 362 replies
- 28.4k views
I just spent the last 30 minutes reading an old thread on God and the correlation between intelligence and religious beliefs. Personally, I am very well educated and top of my class and yet I still have strong religious beliefs. But this is besides the point, I only use myself as an example. This question is generally directed to anyone who is atheist, agnostic, or just is completely unsure! (But of course anyone feel free to answer, I'd also love to hear the religious side of the argument!) So, in essence of saving time I'll be direct; If anyone out there doesn't believe in God, why? I honestly just want to hear your opinion and what lead you to your beliefs. Was it lack…
-
- 107 replies
- 23.7k views
What's more important? This is something that has badgered me for a long time. Especially for the sciences and math, I feel like I am exerting myself much more than many of my classmates and yet some of their results are much better than mine. I know someone who is extremely talented at math. He never makes a deliberate attempt to study but is able to score high because his brain is literally a sponge for math; he assimilates everything in class with ease and is able to apply that knowledge almost effortlessly when it comes to the IB questions where most would have some problems with thinking critically. To me, a lot of people say that hard work is all it takes. I still b…
Last reply by behaaa, -
- 9 replies
- 2.6k views
Hey, so today, in ITGS there was a huge debate, I was alone, against two people, arguying whether computers could think or not. So, I think computers cannot think, as thinking is considered as a "mental act" . I gave the argument that they are programmed to obey commands, made by human beings, and this is what can even give Artificial Intelligence for video games, anyways, what do you guys think?
Last reply by Emilia1320, -
- 25 replies
- 9.9k views
The IB, of course, claims that it is not a political organisation but there is a lot of evidence to the contrary. For instance the IB is totalitarian. Not only does it want to educate you academically but it wants to mould your personality, via CAS and TOK especially, to become an internationalist global citizen. It also seems to preach moral/cultural relativism; just look at the IB mission statement. The International Baccalaureate aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect. To this end the organization works with schools, governments and internatio…
Last reply by Emilia1320, -
- 14 replies
- 2.4k views
I was reading an article and I wondered, is there a difference between just noticing an attractive person and objectifying a person?
Last reply by King112, -
- 4 replies
- 943 views
As technology rises every year, (And this was one of my English B HL presentation Topic) most of the time, we use technology to help us, wordprocessors, search engines wikis, forums etc.. However, does this new way of making researches, homework and classwork really benefit us?
Last reply by Flow4421, -
- 10 replies
- 1.2k views
would segregated schools by gender be better, I was just wondering this
Last reply by ibprincess, -
- 0 replies
- 791 views
Are you in support of the Dark web? Against it? Why? Why not? Personally, I support it because circumvention of arbitrary legal restrictions Freedom of speech Net neutrality PM me for more info as this is a quite controversial subject
Last reply by Esteban, -
- 15 replies
- 1k views
Federal Investigators accused North Korea of conducting the hacking attack on Sony today. They hacked Sony because of a movie that was set to release on Christmas Day, called The Interview. It was a comedy surrounding the assassination of North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un. This is said to be the first known breach of private U.S. computers by North Korea. North Korea has publicly stated that they have no involvement in the matter, but stated that it was a good action by the hackers. The group that claims responsibility for the attack calls themselves the Guardians of Peace. They sent messages to Sony executives thanking them for canceling the release of The Interview. …
Last reply by alefal, -
- 0 replies
- 1.7k views
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=60YN8honuDs This is a documentary done by IB students on consumerism and the concept of Planned/Perceived obsolescence. It focuses on Planned Obsolescence the most though, but does briefly talk about perceived obsolescence as well. I think they did an amazing job with it all. I just really wish planned obsolescnce and perceived obsolescence would stop being used. Its so manipulative, and its really unfair for us as individuals to continue being tricked in this way by top franchises, businesses and just the media in general. I'd like to leave this here for those who don't know what these concepts/theories mean: Consumerism: the theo…
Last reply by usernamed, -
- 0 replies
- 716 views
Although we live in a global age, stereotypes and misinformation about different peoples, cultures, and countries exist nearly everywhere. As an American, I have seen people, businesses, and government agencies make decisions, both consciously and subconsciously, based off of stereotypes. Do you believe that there are any untrue stereotypes/misinformation about your identity (be that nationality, race, gender, sexuality, religion, etc.)? Why do you think these stereotypes exist? Do you know of any stereotypes about others that you have found to be untrue? What role do you think stereotypes play in our society? Lastly, is there something you wish more people knew about…
Last reply by chybug, -
- 3 replies
- 967 views
Greetings everybody, If you can read the title than I felicitate you on your achievements for comprehending the topic of discussion. It's been on my mind for some time now. Napoleon Bonaparte, a man recognized for his valor, military intelligence and his Empire. Hitler is...(you should know who he is, you're IB!! ). Now I have a very limited knowledge on what Napoleon did, however I recognize that he is a man who took over a fairly large portion of Europe, and is presently known as one of the best tacticians the world has conceived (next to Genghis :3 ). I already know about Adolf Hitler's achievements in warfare, however will we reach a point in time where we recogn…
Last reply by Thrashmaster, -
- 34 replies
- 4.6k views
Answer the poll.
Last reply by King112, -
- 8 replies
- 4.6k views
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rymHYhlbBmw I think Emma has a great point here - how are we to achieve equality when often half the world isn't invited to the conversation? I will talk a bit about first world feminism here. It is time we stopped the "us versus them" mentality. When fighting for rights, we unknowingly develop this attitude, and it is simply not helpful for the cause. This mentality causes many actually egalitarian men to develop a disdain for the feminist cause. Men - I will be the first (apart from Emma) to say that there are prejudices against you too. It is not fair for me to constantly talk about inequality against me, when there are many ag…
-
- 3 replies
- 776 views
My question is: Why do people like Ellen Degeneres, Neil Patrick Harris, and Elton John get to be homosexual publicly, and not be chastised for it, while if your average joe wanted to marry the love of his life, he'd have to move to a different state? Is that really fair? I don't understand why everything is okay for celebrities. Like they're allowed to be gay, they're allowed to be drug addicts and criminals, and they get away with a month in jail and a suspension from participation on TV or in movies. Tell me exactly how right it sounds for Michael from down the street to have to appeal to a court to be able to marry his soulmate, or for Mary to be able to marry Catheri…
Last reply by Sandwich, -
What do you know about ISIS?
by Guest- 16 replies
- 1.8k views
Hi everyone! I've joined Model United Nations as an extracurricular activity and we're having our first debate about ISIS. As of what I know from the news in my country, ISIS is an extremist group who is trying to convert everyone they meet into Islam. HOWEVER, as I do research, I've read in many sources that ISIS had a long history and was actually funded by the USA before they got their name now. A senior even told me that ISIS is not at all evil, because from the sources she learnt from (and she's very passionate about this) she found out that many Western countries are believing in the "lies that the US set up". She told me that a country can actually make mon…
Last reply by Blackcurrant, -
- 5 replies
- 1.4k views
can we mail our IA's, EE's etc etc to our teachers? will it become plagiarized if it sent in turn it in if it is our own work??
Last reply by IBfreakingout!, -
- 1 reply
- 979 views
Hello guys! I am anonymous and I want to know if the IB Organization is bribable? If I would give the IB Organization 1 billion dollars (1'000'000'000 dollars), would they award me a diploma with 45 points? PS: I personally believe everyone is bribable. If someone tells you they are not bribable, then this is a lie. They just say they are not bribable because they know you would never have that much of something (like money) they demand of you to actually corrupt them. I feel it is ethically correct to ask this question and feel there is nothing wrong with it. If you ban me, I don't give a ****.
Last reply by Sandwich, -
- 5 replies
- 1.1k views
Is politics a human science?
Last reply by Thrashmaster, -
- 16 replies
- 3k views
A friend and I were talking about Pride and Prejudice today during lunch, and character traits came up when talking about Darcy and Bingley. Darcy is very reserved, Bingley more openly emotional - in my opinion, perhaps overly so - but which is better? My friend is actually quite like Bingley and says emotional, I am much more like Darcy and prefer objectivity. Do you think, in real life, it's better to wear your heart on your sleeve so everyone sees all your feelings, or is it better to have a rather detached approach to life?
Last reply by sgg, -
- 47 replies
- 4.7k views
since ib students should be "knowledgeable" i would like to tell you that several hours ago a palestinian senior boy just like us was killed by israeli defence forces, several hours after he left his school. He had plans for the future just like us, he wanted to go to a university just like anyone of us, but now and because there is no one to ask the israeli soldier why did you kill the boy he will not be able to do any of his dreams. So i would like everybody to know whats going on in palestine and how people in our age die for no reason. And this photo shows the boy at his last moments today! btw the soldier meant to kill him since he shoot him in his heart. Image (not…
Last reply by SallyShariff, -
- 34 replies
- 4k views
Simple enough, do you guys think a communist system will ever prosper in the modern world? China does not count - yes, technically they are still a socialist state, but their economics has shifted towards traditional capitalist markets to incentivise growth and trade, and it was worked tremendously well for them. Think back to the fifties and sixties, with the Great Leap Forwards, etcetera.. Mao's much more Communist ideals (communal agriculture, for instance) resulted in a catastrophic famine and regression of the economy. Capitalist ideals saved them. I'm not just interested in economics though - socially, do you think Communism is superior to the more hierarchical West…
Last reply by Excalibre, -
- 6 replies
- 1.5k views
7 goals? 4 goals in 6 minutes against Brazil, who were at home (and previously had not lost at home in 42 years)? Speechless. Just speechless. I really wanna hear people's thoughts on this game.
Last reply by IctEcon, -
- 3 replies
- 1.3k views
Hey guys, I am from Turkey, and I've been keen on researching about Armenian Genocide. I need a poll for a project, so I would be glad if you can take a few seconds to answer. I'm not gonna give you my own opinion so that it wouldn't influence you. "Armenian Genocide" is stated (by Armenia) to be a planned murder of Armenian race by the Ottoman Empire (old-Turkey) in the 20th century.
Last reply by Clockwork, -
- 10 replies
- 2.9k views
I was having a discussion with the boyfriend today, regarding feminism. He told me that while feminism is absolutely crucial in developing countries, it has simply become an "excuse for everything" for women in developed countries. He says that as a group, women have lost sight of the ideals of feminism and instead started classifying every single problem we face under the label of sexism. Unfortunately, for every argument I brought up, he provided a valid counter argument. It wasn't some "anti-feminist" arguments, but well thought-out rebuttals. The more he explained his point of view, the more I was inclined to agree with him. A fair proportion of women do seem to…
Last reply by Andy Sebastian, -
- 2 replies
- 1.6k views
Hey Guys, I found a neat article about how individuals with mental disorder who have committed a crime can have their punishments alleviated or even exempt. Here it is: http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/andrewbrown/2013/nov/12/brain-states-criminality-heart-humanity-located What do you guys think???
Last reply by Arrowhead, -
- 4 replies
- 1.2k views
Turkish people will hear me on this one, a coalmine "accident" just happened in Soma several days ago. (correct me if you see any information wrong) According to the news articles, there had been an explosion in the power unit of the mine station, killing hundreds of people working in there. But there are a lot more rumors going on about this, such as there was fire in one unit, but it was covered with concrete, then there was a lot of pressure in the unit, causing an explosion. Nearly 350 people were dead, and 400 people (last time I checked) were saved. Another terrible rumor is, local forces will not save trapped people anymore. They will cover the fire with lye, le…
Last reply by baltacimustafa, -
- 6 replies
- 2k views
What happens to our exams after it has been collected by the IB co-ordinator? My IB coordinator sort of 'hinted' to today that he read a completed paper, this would of course mean he went through it after collection. This is purely out of curiosity, thanks. It also opens up the possibility of teachers having a look at your paper before the sending off, wondering what you guys with any relevant/informative knowledge think about this.
Last reply by I3lackAngel, -
- 6 replies
- 1.2k views
After watching this documentary: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kC_RYgkkmcM I'm curious about your thoughts on this.
Last reply by Clockwork, -
- 2 replies
- 710 views
Hello, I was trying to download a sample IA that is related to my IA topic from the main site, and what I got as response was that am not permitted to use the service... please someone tell me what to do ...I need help
Last reply by Gaby, -
- 3 replies
- 1.7k views
Hi everyone, I was wondering if the IAs that are sent in paper for moderation are put through turnitin once they get to the moderators? Thanks
Last reply by iamyourmum, -
- 4 replies
- 1.2k views
Hi all, I have recently submitted my english A written task (Creative writing) and at first I was pretty glad it was over... But when I think about it, I only briefly mentioned my inspiration which was a video in my rationale and did not make a proper reference for anything. Even though I did not copy and paste any content, I am still very worried that the IB will take it as plagiarism as the content of my written task was inspired by the video and they share certain similarities. I really need your advice/help...
Last reply by Seohyun, -
i liked the idea of those of you who asked what everone thought of americans and australians... so i thought i realy would like to know what you guys think about the arabs and muslims....say it honestly please....because we seem to feel that the world is taking this very mistakable impression on us...so...give me your opinions please:)...+ reason.....and i will answer if i have anything to reply..thanks (i already gave my opinion on americans...but australians....i dont really know much about them to judge)
Last reply by sberkmetin, -
-
- 3 replies
- 2.5k views
Hey, guys! So for my HL1 film final, we have to produce a documentary. Mine is on whether or not IB kids believe IB is worth all of the hard work and stress. If you could, please answer these questions and explain if necessary. Thanks! 1.) Why do you think IB will/will not be worth it? 2.) How do you cope with the stress? 3.) Would you suggest IB to another student? Why or why not? 4.) Any advice for others in IB/advice you wish you were given?
Last reply by flinquinnster, -
The Ukrainian Crisis: Dangerous?
by Guest- 3 replies
- 898 views
Hey! Recently I was having a short discussion on the ongoing Ukrainian Crisis. The impasse of diplomatic discussions seem to have provoked a flurry of speculations. I guess we got a bit carried away, and our discussion ended with the possibilty of a World War, with involvement of nuclear warfare. (Somehow North Korea wriggled it way in.) I wanted to know what are are your speculations? Will the issue resolve peacefully? Or a war might ensue? (P.S. I hope I'm not offending anyone. This is just out of pure curiosity.)
Last reply by Maks123456, -
- 5 replies
- 906 views
Familiar with the World Schools' Style format of debate? I wanted to know what you've found effective so far as writing speeches are concerned. How would you construct your speech and make it organized with rebuttals and arguments? Would you "flow" the debate (drawing out columns and writing arguments as the debate evolves) or would you do something else ...? I've been using flashcards all this while and I haven't gotten my speeches to being as organized as I would want them to be. Thanks
-
- 47 replies
- 7.8k views
So I was thinking about this today (because I'm morbid like that) and I was wondering what you guys thought. Is having a death penalty justified? Do we, as humans, have the right to decide when another person's life should be ended? I personally believe in the death penalty, I believe it to be a necessary social device to maintain control and order, but I also think it should be a sentence used sparingly at best (i.e. no going all crazy Texan). It should be reserved for those criminals who have committed crimes of the worst sort: crime against humanity; war crimes; genocide; torture; jus cogens violations, etc. Adolf Hitler-esque criminals that is. I think it's incredibly…
Last reply by Sandwich,
