The St Andrews Union Debating Society is the only debating society that still runs weekly public debates for free. All students of the University of St Andrews are automatically members of the society which enables them to attend these debates. Throughout the debate you can look forward to hearing our speakers address the motion from interesting and unique angles - and you may well find that you leave the debate thinking something entirely different from when you entered. There is an opportunity for you to voice your own opinions when the debate opens to floor speeches - and a prize for the best one!
The wearing of academic gowns is encouraged. Debates start at 8 PM but doors open at 7:30 PM. Often there are free soft drinks, wine or port for the first few spectators so make sure to get to Parliament Hall early. We look forward to having you along.
The Motion Fails
Proposition: 13
Opposition: 20
Abstentions: 8
Total: 40
Proposition
Professor Mike Hulme studies the epistemic, cultural and historical construction of the idea of climate change, and its discursive and material effects, drawing upon scientific, social scientific and humanities insights.
William Smith is a PhD student in Neuroscience at the University of St Andrews. He is a seasoned UDS competitive debater, and this year’s Father of the House.
Opposition
Professor Stuart Haszeldine is a professor of Carbon Capture and Storage at the University of Edinburgh. He has helped create the UK’s largest University group examining CO2 storage geology.
Aimee Bennington is a third year PhD candidate in Mathematics and Biology at the University of St Andrews. She also works to educate and engage doctoral students in carbon accounting to inform sustainable research and improve emissions data accessibility within industry.
