Debate online. Real opponents. Real spectators.

Every debate starts from a topic written as a question, for example whether the standard workweek should drop to four days. Each topic has two sides with their own labels, so a debate is between two clear positions rather than a vague argument. You can browse all topics, grouped by category, before you commit.

Anyone with an account can propose a topic. A person on our team approves it before it appears, which keeps the list readable and the questions fair.

In a live debate you pick a side and join the queue for that topic. When someone joins the opposite side, you are matched into a room and the debate starts. Messages, voice notes and images appear in real time. Spectators can follow along but cannot post.

Live debates suit people who can spend a focused stretch of time. Scheduled events put a topic and a start time on the calendar so that people can arrive together.

If you cannot be online at the same moment as your opponent, debate by turns. A debate has six written turns, and each person has 24 hours for each turn. You can edit your latest argument until your opponent has answered it. You can start a challenge, wait for someone to take the other side, or invite a particular person.

Turn-based debates reward thought over speed. You have time to check a claim, find a source and write a proper answer, and your opponent can be on the other side of the world.

Debate the argument, not the person. State your claim, give a reason, answer the other side's strongest point rather than the weakest one, and be willing to say when a point lands. Debates end with ratings: each person rates the other on politeness, thoughtfulness, ease of talking to, honesty and open-mindedness, and the ratings build a reputation.

Topics are written as questions with two clear sides. Current examples on the site include whether the standard workweek should drop to four days, whether social media should be banned for under-16s, whether nuclear power is the answer to climate change, whether companies should force employees back to the office, and whether a universal basic income is a good idea. The list grows as people propose new ones, and the topics page groups them by category.

If you have never debated online before, start small and follow these steps.

Messages are not screened before delivery. In any debate you can report a message or a person with the flag icon and block anyone you do not want to hear from. A person on our team reviews reports, and serious violations lead to suspension or a permanent ban.

People under 18 debate only people under 18, and adults debate only adults. Watching public debates and public events is open to everyone.