BeIR/webis-touche2020 huggingface dataset:
Resolved: we must remove the usa patriot act

I think you're wrong about you being the life based vote. A life without freedom is not one worth living, The government is essentially devaluing life through the use of acts like the patriot act. They devalued that victims life far before I ever stated it. If anything, revoking this act brings more value to our lives. Also I rebuke your leaning toward a death being some sort of indefinite value that cant be matched by other damages. They are all linked in my eye. We are talking decimals vs. whole numbers ... not life vs. money. A death = 1. Being out funds for necessities may damage my life by .01. We are talking a couple hundred deaths vs billions of .01's. They add up. Your disregard for smaller damages in light of a save from death is admiral in fantasy, but not practical. It is not a good measure of the damage to everyone else. This is getting people to support causes with less yield often take convincing and empathy. It takes you asking the people to make an make an unreasonable assumption (that they could fall victim terrorism or how would they feel if someone they loved died) when in reality they never have to face this threat. Their chances of being the one falling victim to one of those caught terrorists is so incredibly low that it takes a scare tactic on the side of your government security to get people to support such an improbability. Im in no way a terrorist supporter, but i can identify with them that the only way to fight a superpower from a stance of low power and have such the high impact that they do is through the use of scare tactics. Cause the community to change itself internally than actually attack it. The patriot act does exactly this. Changes our very principles and foundation, they thing they hate and envy so much. The downfall of the their enemy being the ultimate goal. The downfall of their structure, core ideologies, and beliefs being intermediate goals. If we succumb to acts like this ... they are winning. Plain and simple.
Resolved: we must remove the usa patriot act

My opponent brings up how a lot of money could be lost using patriot act measures but even if that's true which is hard to tell its worth it to save a life. Yes maybe that one person couldn't bring that much money to the table but consider this. That person can't be brought back but money can be made again and again and as the dollars value is actually decreasing anyway. I have shown the following key benefits of patriot act 1. Protects power grids 2. Stops counter terrorism operations including transport of dangerous weapons 3. Patriot act allows businesses and other private organizations to share threats which in turn enhances security 4. Causes businesses to report fraud and protects borders as a whole 5. "According to a 29-page report to Congress released by Atty. Gen. John Ashcroft, Justice Department terrorism investigations have resulted in charges against 310 people and have yielded 179 convictions or guilty pleas. The report says the Patriot Act was central to those cases.-Washington post From what I can see this debate is mostly money vs life based. So if you value money over 1 person go pro but if you value all these benefits coming off the patriot act then go con
Resolved: we must remove the usa patriot act

To reiterate my first point, the 'Trojan' would be that a section defining that selective search and seizure of information could be performed by the government as long as they say it was in the name of anti-terrorism security. This opens up a huge backdoor for abuse of power. Stringing the seized data to a conviction is enough to make it seem legit. To that point, we define info sec breech damage by how many were exposed to a breach. The government breached billions of users data to score 1 arrest? Think of the collateral damage there. If only 1person lost $20 in a Target credit card breach ... we don't call it only $20 in damage. Everyone numbers who were exposed get lumped in there. Their data had value ... even if the average person can't fathom a dollar value for it. Proprietary company info gets exposed when the feds get involved ... that has value. The marketing damage that ensues from a gov't audit when there's a breach ... has value. I feel bad putting a dollar amount on a life here, but companies like that lost more money, more capital, more resources than that person saved ever would have brought to the table. I don't mourn him in this convoy though as I feel I've stuck up for him and placed his best interests most highly in my first point, which was how his privacy and anonymity be paramount. If anything is a deterrent to terrorism or any other targeted attack, I would think ones anonymity be the most effective. Info sec is one of those constantly progressive ' bigger stick' things. The more the government consolidates data and makes cross company access easier and more accessible ... the more easily an adversary can exploit it, leading to the need for a 'bigger stick'. A slope towards more power relinquished by the people.
Resolved: we must remove the usa patriot act

I will attack my opponents points first then back up case some his intro/clarification thing He says privacy should be valued over just 100 lives... what he has to relize is that even if something is small and saves a little lives it still saves lives and should be valued. What if one of those 100 lives was him or me or any of you reading this debate or a child of someone who may be a parent reading this debate then we would value this death problem even more. main arguments against privacy thing 1. government should value tranquility I would be scared if a government valued privacy over saving lives anyday.. the government must ensure tranquility of people and besides if you have nothing to hide nothing to fear. 2.heavy oversight Also heavy oversight to ensure info. isn't shared. 3. Publics view of the patriot act Most people don't even know what the patriot act is so privacy isn't an issue with them anyway they are more worried about the NSA which has more access so people aren't effected by this and I am sure they are fine with it since the patriot act unlike the NSA is actually working 4. Some parts of patriot act could be removed Some parts of the patriot act could be removed to ensure less privacy is violated a certain amount of privacy or things must be accessed to stop terrorist activity and I have shown successful results above so its worth it and again possible ways to lower privacy violated Now moving on to my opponents first point: Honestly I am a bit confused by wording of this point so my opponent can you please explain it to me on next round or whenever so I can address or talk about it? my opponents 2nd point: I disagree I agree yes budget problems can be an issue but solution is to donate more money to ensure patriot act continues to make progress in counter terrorism operations. The patriot act has stopped transport of terrorist equipment in places especially on the border, has protected power grids and electricity in general from hackers, and saves lives, it also causes businesses and other private organizations to share threats which in turn enhances security. So yeah solution would be to help them with budget to ensure these trends continue. his 3rd point: I think he is saying these instances are fake or played out Honestly that's not true and if their budget really is small they couldn't afford to waste money on fake terrorist attacks/instances (now if this isn't what you said then please clear it up for me next round or on your next speech.)
Resolved: we must remove the usa patriot act

I'm glad you're already in agreement with the fact that it has an overwhelmingly large flaw as being anti-privacy. I'll start by stating how much more important it is that all people have this right than the few hundred 'saves' the Washington Post recorded. 1) A light deterrent to terrorism with a Trojan built in. It was released at the most opportune time to snake some extra government power past a scared public in the Bush era. Even the fact that you think 179 convictions to be significant is a sign of how scared we were. 2) It inherently decreases security by giving it up and putting it all in the hands of an organization who can't balance their own bank account or make any sound judgment in the best interests of its people. There should be no trust that they will act in your best interests. They are most assuredly more interested in company data than the person whos identity was compromised. 3) Again, one incident. The terrorist attacks we feel are aimed at us are just backlash from that same governments actions. They brought it about, played clean-up with this act and slipped in a government win in the process. There are more people being affected by the act negatively than positively.
Resolved: we must remove the usa patriot act

Yes the patriot act has certain things that should be repelled or changed such as privacy. In fact some things in the patriot act that scare the living crap out of me. But there is one beneficial part of it that shouldn"t be eliminated and that is the protection this act provides for American citizens. 1.Stops terrorism "Protects power grids from being hacked by terrorist, power grids allow electricity and energy for people"s homes-Washington post "According to a 29-page report to Congress released by Atty. Gen. John Ashcroft, Justice Department terrorism investigations have resulted in charges against 310 people and have yielded 179 convictions or guilty pleas. The report says the Patriot Act was central to those cases.-Washington post "Information-sharing facilated by the Patriot Act was critical to the successful dismantling of terror cells in Portland, Ore., and Virginia. The information-sharing provisions contained in the act assisted the prosecution in San Diego of those involved with an al-Qaida drugs-for-weapons plot involving "Stinger" anti-aircraft missiles. Source=NY times "The act also aided in the prosecution of Enaam Arnaout, who had a relationship with Osama bin Laden and used his charity organization to obtain funds illicitly from unsuspecting Americans for terrorist groups-NY times 2.Enhances security "Patriot act allows businesses and other private organizations to share threats which in turn enhances security "Causes businesses to report fraud and protects borders as a whole 3.Saved lives "The patriot act has even helped crime domestically by saving lives "The report provides as examples lengthy accounts of non-terrorism cases in which the Patriot Act played a central role, including investigations of a couple who allegedly defrauded widows and orphans, and of an Indiana man accused of filming the sexual abuse of his 13-year-old daughter. Sensenbrenner highlighted the case of the Wisconsin woman, 88, who was kidnapped in. She was rescued after officials used the Patriot Act to obtain information from Internet service providers.-Washington post Conclusion: Yes solution would be to keep most of patriot act and remove areas where we can where they violate privacy to much. Since it saves lives and stops terrorism benefits outweigh privacy cost anyway.
Cats Are Better Than Dogs

This is odd, considering I love cats more than I do dogs, but I decided I will post my own opinion regarding the matter. Dogs are just as self sufficient as cats. Sure, they might require a doggy door or being tied up outside, but they are capable of being on their own for long periods of time. Not all dogs are overly energetic, in fact, I've had a lot of dogs that weren't. I even have a few cats that are more energetic than my dogs. The whole dogs-are-hyper is a stereotype. Of course, there are quite a few perceived to follow it though. I actually have a dog now that is practically a loner. He would rather lie around and entertain himself (he is healthy). Going by the stereotypical nature, dogs could help those who are in desperate need for love and company. If you clean your cat's litter box, you do have to get close in order to clean it just as you would a dog's mess in the backyard. Just as there are scoopers for the litter box, there are some designed for dog waste too. In this aspect, I would consider it equal. Cats may have been worshiped as gods in Ancient Egypt, but dogs were also considered sacred and associated with Anubis. Dogs are also worshiped in Hinduism, too. There have also been dog cultists throughout history in which dogs were worshiped. Being Man's best friend is a benefit. As for fitting four cats into bed, you can also fit four chihuahuas or even toy poodles in bed with you. There are small dogs, also. Quiet Dog Breeds: Collie (speaks when necessary), Bernese Mountain Dog, Mastiff, Whippet, Italian Greyhound, Great Dane, Newfoundland. While some dogs can be loud, cats can be too. From cats being in heat and to the several noisy cat breeds out there. And also: The ASPCA studied the average costs of pet ownership and here's how the numbers shook out: Small dog: $1,314 the first year, $580 per year after Medium dog: $1,580 the first year, $695 per year after Large dog: $1,843 the first year, $875 per year after Cat: $1,035 the first year, $670 per year after Small dogs are cheaper as the years went on. http://www.webvet.com... All animals have personalities and shouldn't be forced into stereotypes.
Cats Are Better Than Dogs

While you shouldn"t leave your cat alone for the long term, it is perfectly acceptable to work fairly long hours or go away overnight without having to worry about your cat, as long as they are left with everything that they need. Cats are self sufficient and don"t mind spending time alone, whereas dogs get bored and upset if they are left to their own devices for more than a few hours! While you will need to clean out your cat"s litter tray if you provide one, other than this, cats take care of their own toileting provision, and bury their waste! Dogs, on the other hand produce rather potent offerings, and dog owners have to get up close and personal with it in order to clear it up safely! This line says it all, really. Dogs might be man"s best friend, but in ancient Egypt, cats were worshipped as Gods, something that cats have never forgotten. Quite where we went wrong along the way by considering that cats are simply companions and pets now as opposed to the regal, mystical beings that they actually are is hard to define, but the humble mutt simply cannot compete with this one! Meow! Cats are incredibly finicky about their cleanliness, and spend large portions of their days washing themselves and getting their fur just so. Dogs on the other hand, heartily enjoy disgusting stinky messes, and will often make a beeline for the nearest puddle, pile of fox pooh or reeking, decaying carcass, and take great delight in rolling around in it, against the wishes of their owners! Cat mathematics dictates that you can fit four or more cats comfortably into a double bed and still have room for yourself! Trying to squeeze yourself into bed alongside of a spread-eagled Saint Bernard dog, however, can prove to be more of a challenge and can lead to the odd sleepless night spend on the sofa! With the occasional exception of very vocal cats such as the Siamese or the Bengal, cats are very quiet animals who do not make a big noisy fuss! Cats do not bark at the sound of the doorbell, howl along to the radio, or otherwise talk back so loudly that your neighbours can hear them. Shhh! Even feeding the largest, hungriest of cats will work out cheaper than feeding a dog, and the savings don"t stop there! Everything about caring for a cat costs less than the equivalents for a dog, including insurance, veterinary treatments, boarding, bedding, and flea and worming treatments. Even the littlest of dogs need room to stretch their legs and a large enough home to contain them comfortably, while even the largest of cats is happy in the smallest of places! Even if you live in a studio apartment or a tiny house, the chances are that you have room for a cat
ENVIRO DEBATE TOURNEY: Recycling helps the enviroment!

Hello! I would like to thank Subutai for hosting this tournament. I would like to greet my opponent DanT, hello sir. We will both attempt to entertain you with a duscussion about the enviroment. Our resolution is: RESOLUTION: Recycling helps the enviroment! In this debate I will be supporting that recycling does help the enviroment. DanT will attempt to show that recycling does not help the enviroment. DEFINITIONS: Recycling- return (material) to a previous stage; to use again. http://oxforddictionaries.com... Enviroment- the surroundings or conditions in which a person, animal, or plant lives or operates. http://oxforddictionaries.com... Helps- improve (a situation or problem); be of benefit to. http://oxforddictionaries.com... RULES: 1) No semantics or trolling. 2) Be respecful. 3) No forfeited rounds. 4) All sources must be in debate or alternate source. 5) Winner will be who makes the best argument. 6) BOP is equally shared. ROUNDS: 1) Acceptance and introductions 2) Opening arguments(no rebuttals by Con) 3) Remaining arguments and rebuttals 4) Closing rebuttals(no new arguments) I am looking forward in debating DanT and I now send it to Con for acceptance. *Please make comments in comments section, Con, if you have issues.
Androids Are Better Than iPhones

====VOTERS====Unfortunately my opponent has forfeited this debate... Please extend all of the arguments above, and look to those in the conclusion of this debate.I feel you should vote for me for the following reasons:1. I have proven that the Iphone is technologically more advanced the the Android.2. I have proven that the Iphone has better features, music, and apps than the Android.3. My opponent has dropped arguments several times in all of her speechs. She hasn't defended the arguments made on her case, so we must assume she agrees that the Iphone is better than the android.I thank my opponent for the time and effort put forth into this debate, and wish her good luck in the voting period.Thankyou.
Androids Are Better Than iPhones

I will be going over voters. 1. I feel I have won this debate because I have succesfully refuted all of my opponents arguments. 2. My opponent has dropped my entire case, and only brings it up in the last round, which I argue is unfair. 3. I have succesfully refuted each one of my opponents arguments, all of which she does not respond to. 4. I have proved that the iphone is far superior to the android. Given my opponent has no rebuttals, please extend my arguments both on my case, and her case. Thank you for taking the time to read this debate!
Androids Are Better Than iPhones

"Iphone technology is far more advanced than that of the Android." Actually they are neck-in-neck when it comes to how successful of a device they are. From the same article my opponent used and refers to, Androids statistically exceed iPhones in these following categories: Sending photos directly to other phones: +7.9% Captured Video: +22.5% Uploaded Video To Computer: +8.9% Sent Video Directly To Another Phone: +6.3% Sent Video Via Email: +6.7% Uploaded Video To The Web: +6.7% Based on these statistics, iPhones are poor choices for phones especially pertaining to video. In these other 6 categories, iPhones are only beating Android by slight percentages. Photos: +2% Network services: +2.5% Transferring photos: +8.2% Sending photos to email: +6.1% Social Netwroking: +4.9% Sending photo's to web: +1.8% http://zapp5.staticworld.net... Music: Yes, iPhones are better when it comes to basic playback of music. However, when I made reference to syncing, I said that on iPhone's it's not easy to share the music unless you download an extra app like Bump that allows it. Features: Actually texting is a lot easier on Androids due to the Swype keypads that they have. All one has to do is swipe their finger across the letters and they are texting. It's much faster. http://swypeforandroid.net... Also, the screen-size of the android is much bigger than the iPhone. This makes it a lot easier on the eyes to read in comparison to the smaller screen of the iPhone. Also, the web and data speed of the Androids are much better then iPhones. An article from fox 5 news covers this aspect. They stated: "The iPhone 4S may have a fancy new dual-antenna system and the ability to reach 14.4 Mbps (theoretically) on AT&T, but it gets blown away by 4G Android phones. For example, the AT&T iPhone 4S delivered speeds as high as 5.3 Mbps but averaged 2.2 Mbps. Both the T-Mobile Galaxy SII (12.6 Mbps) and the Motorola Droid Bionic (11.6 Mbps) are faster." Apps: When it comes to games on iPhones, it is highly more successful then androids, however, with social networking, Android wins. This is because androids allow people to have these widgets on the home screens which we can quickly type a status update or a tweet or update a picture without having to sign in again or open up the full application. Also, we get these widgets for when we want to stream music from music apps like Pandora, Slacker Radio, or Rhapsody. It makes it much easier to access these apps as well so that we can access more than one app at once. Besides that, the apps on the android market are more of a wide variety and not as redundant as the Apple Market. Also, they aren't as expensive either considering that most apps on the android market are free. Iphone apps can be pretty expensive. http://www.msnbc.msn.com... http://www.foxnews.com...
Androids Are Better Than iPhones

Yes, I can agree with my opponent that the Iphone is more advanced than the Android. However, according to statistics, with an android phone, you can acquire much more free applications and save money compared to apple. In 2011, 65.9% of android apps were free compared to the iPhone market having only 33.8% of their apps as free. http://android.appstorm.net... Also, iPhones free apps aren't even that great nor do they have much of a range or variety of decent apps. They limit you to the basics. Yes, I agree that for good quality apps, you should have to pay. However, on the Android market at least, they allow you to try a "Lite" version of an application before you purchase it. This allows the customers to check out the game before the spend money on the full app. Also, on an android, your allowed to buy an app and test it for some time (approx. 15 minutes) and go back and click to receive a full refund if you don't like the application. This feature is not on an iPhone. Another popular distinction between the androids and the iPhones are that iPhones need to be synced all the time. With an android, any changes you make via a computer will automatically change on your cell phone or tablet as well. However, for iPhones you always have to sync the device to the computer and enter your username and password for everything. One other flaw to iPhones is that, for the longest time, no one could share their music because of the way iTunes was set up. Nobody could share playlists or songs from their phones because the music was in iTunes. However, they updated a popular app that many people now use called Bump It in order to share music. However, with an android phone, we can share music without having an extra app. All this does is make things a step more difficult for the iPhone users. Finally, according to a NY Times article at the end of 2011, "While Android was initially overshadowed by the popular iPhone from Apple, its user numbers are now soaring. In 2010, global sales of Android phones reached 67.2 million units, ahead of iPhones, which sold 46 million units, according to the research company Gartner." http://topics.nytimes.com... Therefore, in my defense, Android sales and popularity at one point were inferior to iPhones. However, they have shown to improve overall and triumph over them as of now.