As many CA kids know, there are three speech clubs on campus: Model UN, Mock Trial, and Debate and Ethics Bowl. Debate and Ethics (run by Audrey Mason ’28, Orly Simon ’27, and Cedric Lin ’27) is unique in that it tackles complex ethical dilemmas and deals in gray areas. Co-head Mason says that the Debate and Ethics Bowl is special because you’re not trying to argue against your opponent, like in other public speaking clubs, but trying to come up with the solution that is optimal for both parties. The Debate and Ethics Bowl is centered around collaboration rather than competition. Later in the year, the club will go to an ethics conference where you have to choose a side on a question involving ethics.
One of the questions they’ve grappled with this year is: Should public land managers prioritize inclusivity and safety for visitors, even if it alters the character of natural environments?
This question sparked a long discussion about whether or not we should pave paths on all mountains, what the best way to pave paths is, would national parks need to comply with a different set of Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) laws, etc. The club all agreed that there should be some sort of accessible way to enjoy nature, but to what extent should we make it accessible? One person raised the point that the more nature you are exposed to, the more appreciation you gain for nature, and the more you are willing to protect the nature around you. Therefore, it would make sense to build as many accessible paths as possible. However, would too many accessible paths ruin what makes the wildness of nature so beautiful?
During this discussion, the room was practically buzzing with ideas. When the club meeting wrapped up, everyone left excited and still thinking about this question. The beautiful thing about ethics is that you never really conclude. You just have to keep continuing the dialogue.
If you want these kinds of scintillating discussions with some cool people, make sure to come out to the next Debate and Ethics Bowl meeting!