u/Adventurous-Bad625

Just for some context, I am a current 2,3 and 4 in the WSD format - what I say here might not apply to other formats. To me it just feels as if debate, especially in crossfire or heavy rebuttal speeches, is locked behind talent. Personally I have anecdotal experience as I am only a second year in debate and I have far surpassed people who have 4+ years of experience. It makes sense to me as well, think about it, coming up with on the spot refs and POI/CF responses can be highly dictated by quick thinking that is determined in large by just intelligence as a whole. What are yall's thoughts? Can you reach a higher level in the long run despite a lower intelligence level? I personally think not.

Just for some context, I am a current 2,3 and 4 in the WSD format - what I say here might not apply to other formats. To me it just feels as if debate, especially in crossfire or heavy rebuttal speeches, is locked behind talent. Personally I have anecdotal experience as I am only a second year in debate and I have far surpassed people who have 4+ years of experience. It makes sense to me as well, think about it, coming up with on the spot refs and POI/CF responses can be highly dictated by quick thinking that is determined in large by just intelligence as a whole. What are yall's thoughts? Can you reach a higher level in the long run despite a lower intelligence level? I personally think not.