Both Impington Village College and Ely College held their in house debates on Friday 20th October debating the motion 'this house believes that social media is a force for good."
All four teams argued very effectively for and against. Those in favour of the motion argued that social media provides a great way to “build bridges and connect people across the world”; it provides a valuable way to “share news and keep in touch with friends and family”; and it “allows everyone the right to an opinion and to share and comment on world events.” They also highlighted that it offers users a gateway to "build businesses" and "develop communities" as well as "promote good causes." All in favour were in agreement that responsibility for using social media rests with the users.
Those opposing the motion cited concerns over “unrealistic expectations”, "body image pressure" and the “pressure to conform”; They pointed to increasing mental health problems amongst adolescents being linked to social media; the addictive properties of social media and the fact that it encourages “social validation and insecurity”. They also raised concerns about social media being used as a vehicle for widespread scamming as well as the spreading of fake news and terrorist propaganda.
Two winners from each college join those from Kings Ely who qualified for the final last week. Next up is Bottisham Village College!
Lucy Frazer MP said "The students are all putting in such good debating performances. They have done the preparation, are familiar with their arguments and, most importantly, have the confidence to put those arguments forward in front of an audience with great conviction. Credit must be given to all those taking part and I hope whether or not they go through to the final this year, they will continue to practise their debating skills which I'm sure will serve them well in the future. My thanks, as always, to all the teaching staff who support the competition and help and encourage the students to take part"