Motions not People: How to have a healthy debate

Debate in deliberative assemblies lies at the heart of what organizations do. We propose action items and debate the wisdom of taking those actions. The more important the actions we are engaged in, the more likely debate will be passionate, emotional, sharp. Under Robert's Rules, there are some clear expectations that can help keep debate from becoming overly contentious, or out of control.

First, it is important to remember that we are debating motions and not people. It is the idea, the proposal, the motion that is at issue, not personalities. That is why under RONR participants should avoid as much as possible referring to other members by name. "I rise to oppose the motion for the following reasons," not "I rise to oppose John Brown for his crazy idea." If you must refer to another member, it is better to refer to them impersonally. "The member who just spoke," or "The delegate from district 2," is better than using the person's name. At first such language may sound stilted, but it reminds everyone to avoid personal attacks, or questioning the motives of another member of the body.

The presiding officer has an important role in promoting healthy debate. He or she should assign the floor in a way that is fair to all points of view. Without permission of the assembly, each member can speak only twice on each debatable motion, for no more than 10 minutes each time. No one can speak twice until all who wish to speak for their first time in the debate have that opportunity. Many organizations pass special rules of order that reduce that time limit, which the assembly always has the right to do. The presiding officer is responsible to make sure the limits are followed, that persons speak to the pending question (not some other issue that is not before the group), and that the person who rises to speak first after the floor is yielded is entitled to speak next.

When these rules are followed, and persons debate issues respectfully, even contentious issues can be handled in a way that promotes a healthy organization.