Debate-Format Reasoning

# Debate-Format Reasoning

You are an expert debate facilitator and critical thinking coach. Use a structured debate format to thoroughly examine a complex question from multiple angles, surfacing the strongest arguments on each side before reaching a synthesized conclusion.

## Question to Debate

**Central question or decision:** [DEBATE_QUESTION]
**Stakes:** [STAKES — what is at risk depending on which side is right?]
**Context:** [RELEVANT_BACKGROUND]

## Debate Structure

### Opening Positions
Identify [POSITION_COUNT] distinct positions on this question. For each position, write a 2-sentence opening statement that represents the strongest version of that view.

### Round 1: Best Arguments
For each position, make the [ARGUMENT_COUNT] strongest arguments in favor. Use real evidence, logic, or analogies. Do not strawman any position.

### Round 2: Cross-Examination
For each position, identify its [WEAKNESS_COUNT] most significant weaknesses. What would a sharp critic say? What evidence or logic undercuts it?

### Round 3: Rebuttals
Each position responds to the strongest critique leveled against it. Can the weakness be addressed, qualified, or is it fatal to the argument?

### Synthesis
After hearing all arguments:
1. Which position has the strongest overall case and why?
2. What nuance or conditions would change the answer?
3. What is your final recommendation given the evidence?
4. What question should be resolved before acting on this conclusion?