Examines the level of clash in the 1988 presidential debates through use of content analysis. Compares the findings regarding clash in 1988 with those from past decades. Concludes that criticisms of debates are overstated and that clash is a product of format as well as other factors. (SR)

Discusses how an examination of the 1988 Presidential Debates offers important insights for debate coaches and participants, noting that weaknesses in the debates highlight debate community values. Urges debate coaches and critics of public argument to use the links between those two roles, and make more contributions to public arguments. (MM)

Compares data from a content analysis of the 1996 and 2000 presidential debates with news coverage of those debates. Concludes that the average newspaper story in 2000 only reported 7% of what the candidates said in a debate. Suggests that voters cannot expect to obtain an accurate or complete representation of presidential debates from media…

Compares respondents who watched the first 1996 presidential debate with respondents who did not. Finds (1) those who watched the debate could more accurately recognize issue positions of Clinton and Dole than nonwatchers; (2) differences in the groups' assessment of character traits of the leading candidates; and (3) more respondents gave policy…

Reports the findings of a national survey of high school debaters regarding their perceptions of the efficacy of debate participation. Concludes that the high school debaters reported advantages similar to those cited by collegiate debaters and that high school debaters were more concerned about perceived negative stigma associated with debate…