Sylvan Debating Club
The Sylvan Debating Club, also known as simply "the Sylvans" is a free speech society in which topical issues are discussed. Founded in London in 1868, it meets twice monthly and employs a traditional motion-based debating format.
The Sylvans are a diverse group who meet in a central London pub. With a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives, the debates cover topics in-depth in a friendly atmosphere of mutual respect. Through this the Sylvans take a fresh view on the important issues, always incorporating a wide range of perspectives, with speeches from the audience making up two-thirds of the debates. This generates a deeper understanding of the topic: crowd wisdom, not echo chamber.