Exactly right. Thanks, Mike. Making a virtue out of not investigating opposing arguments or considering new information was a counterproductive message to learning through debate. It was unfortunate that it ended with the authority figure to the students essentially saying that he sides unequivocally and without want for reason or investigation with the beliefs of one party on the issue being debated.

All in all, though, it was a wonderful debate to have attended. Wish you could have been there, Mike!

Thank you for posting the live-blog. I attended the debate this morning and I'm finding this a great summary to have between the debate and the video release. I'm very impressed with the speed at which you produced your analysis. The closing prayer was disheartening to hear. "I've just heard lots of new facts and arguments and I am not giving them consideration. I'd rather have faith than reason or doubt." Happily, though, I noticed a large number of the older students were not bowed over during the prayer and a few thoughtful younger students too.