Political debate? It’s he who shouts loudest

“Debate”

v. & n.

v. 1. tr. (also absol.) discuss or dispute about (an issue, proposal, etc.) esp. formally in a legislative assembly, public meeting, etc. 2. a) tr. consider, ponder (a matter). b) intr. consider different sides of a question.

n. 1. a formal discussion on a particular matter, esp. in a legislative assembly, etc. 2. debating, discussion (open to debate).

Having been an English teacher in state education for 27 years in the UK and having had the fortune to work as a teacher, middle manager, consultant and senior leader globally for 12 years, I have come to the conclusion that the way in which we run our government and form policy is outmoded in the 21st century.

I have taught children all over the world to discuss, think critically and debate local and global issues. I have entered them in global debating competitions and, yes, that is the motivation, to “win” - it’s a competition.

Is the ability, based on your educational background, to “win” an argument the basis on which policy should be made? Should we be leaving Europe because Etonians can “win” an argument over the rest of us?

I suggest the constitution is reconsidered and “he who shouts loudest” is silenced.  The patronising  put-downs in Parliament I have heard with my students overseas and since my return have made me embarrassed to be British.

Louise Loxton