Bringing clarity to the chaos
No echo chambers. Fewer algorithms. Always diverse perspectives.
Our mission is to strengthen our democracy through real debate—replacing polarization with dialogue, outrage with curiosity, and noise with reason.
About
Us
Open to Debate is the nation’s leading nonpartisan, nonprofit media platform dedicated to bringing together people of multiple viewpoints for civil discourse. Our weekly debates cover a variety of pressing topics—from politics to culture, and everything in between—and are available through NPR, YouTube, Substack, and podcast platforms.
350+
debates
Since 2006, we have engaged millions of global audience members through a variety of unique formats that evolve with our discourse.
900+
debaters
Influential voices from across the political and cultural spectrum have taken our debate stage to address today’s most critical topics.
25+
awards
World-renowned organizations, including the Gracies, Webby Awards, and Telly Awards, have recognized the quality of our programming.
330 +
STATIONS
Open to Debate is a one-hour weekly program broadcast on NPR stations across the country. Stations also air individual episodes as specials.
Ways
To Engage
Explore our latest debates—thought-provoking conversations that illuminate today’s most pressing issues and strengthen the culture of civic dialogue.
Live Debates
Upcoming & Recent Debates
November 14, 2025
Generational Divides with Nick Gillespie
Guests:
- Moderator: Nick Gillespie
- For Baby Boomers: Joe Nocera
- For Gen X: Stacey Vanek Smith
- For Gen Z: Kyla Scanlon
November 7, 2025
Is Europe Too Late to Compete in the Chip War?
Debaters:
- Zach Meyers
- Cristina Caffarra
- Geoffrey Gertz
- Eric Baissus
October 31, 2025
Think Twice: The Seven Rules of Trust with Jimmy Wales
With
- Jimmy Wales
October 24, 2025
Should America End Birthright Citizenship?
Debaters:
- Mark Krikorian
- Horace Cooper
- Kris Mayes
- Chris Newman
October 10, 2025
Is War Inevitable?
Debaters:
- Dylan Motin
- Gabrielle Rifkind
October 3, 2025
Wartime Kill Switch: Human or AI?
Debaters:
- Elliot Ackerman
- Laura Walker McDonald
- Michael C. Horowitz
- Jack Shanahan
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