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James Baldwin and William F. Buckley Debate, 1965

Before Watching:

  • You may watch the entire debate video if you like, but we suggest beginning at 32:21 and ending at 38:07.
  • In a debate situation, persuasive points and counterpoints are meeting each other directly. Prepare to listen for Baldwin’s addressing specific points made by Buckley or commonly made by others in opposition.

After Watching:

  • Where does he look? How would you describe his eye movement?
  • How does he construct his points?
    • Repetition, extrapolation of phrases.
    • Series of adjectives and images.
  • Where is his stress? What words does he emphasize?
  • When does he pause?
  • How does he move his body in concert with what he says?
  • Is his behavior natural or mechanical?
  • How did he punch the ending?
  • What was his main thesis, and how was it supported?
  • Did he show courtesy to the other side? Did he need to do that?
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