People have long wondered about time travel and all its possibilities. This hypothetical activity has sparked an age-old debate: is it wiser to journey to the past or leap into the unknown future?
Constructive Debater 1 Marie
Venturing into the past would allow us to unlock secrets that shape our present. By witnessing the struggles of our ancestors, we can gain greater empathy for their circumstances. Moreover, we can confirm our present knowledge of history firsthand. Some mysteries we have no way of solving without time travel. So, by traveling to the past, we can empower ourselves to create a more compassionate and informed world. In addition, we may be able to change the outcome of certain tragic events or prevent them from occurring altogether, potentially leading to a better present.
Constructive Debater 2 Charlotte
While the past offers valuable lessons, dwelling on it risks stagnation. The past should remain in the past. Rather than obsessing over historical events, we should embrace the future to foster innovation and progress. Moreover, if we time travel to the future, we may be able to learn what we need to change in the present moment. The allure of the future lies in its uncharted potential. We may discover technological marvels or solutions to global issues. We can return to the present with clear instructions for the steps we need to take to ensure a better future.
Rebuttal Debater 1 Marie
The unpredictable nature of the future might expose us to unforeseen risks. While we may be able to rectify a misstep in the past, tampering with the future could have irreversible consequences. The butterfly effect is a huge concern – small actions may unleash unintended chaos. Focusing on the future might prevent us from living in the present and blind us to the importance of learning from the past. The past, though imperfect, is a familiar landscape, thus easier to read. We would be able to predict what consequences our actions would have.
Rebuttal Debater 2 Charlotte
On the contrary, altering the past would have more severe consequences, particularly concerning the butterfly effect. One human being cannot possibly foresee all the possible changes that would arise from even a minor change in the past. A time traveler could accidentally erase themself or cause more tragedies simply by changing one thing in the past. Journeying to the future is better in that regard. By witnessing the future, we equip ourselves to navigate it more effectively. It is far more practical than dwelling on a past that should remain unchanged.
Judge’s Comments
As of yet, time travel technology does not exist. As such, this debate will remain hypothetical until that time. However, it’s worth considering the implications of time travel. That way, we may be ready when that day comes!
Hannah Kim For The Junior Times
1. According to the passage, what benefits can be gained by venturing into the past through time travel?
2. How does witnessing the struggles of our ancestors contribute to our understanding of history, according to the passage?
3. What is the concern mentioned about tampering with the future, and how does the butterfly effect relate to it?
1. Reflect on the idea that witnessing the struggles of ancestors through time travel could lead to greater empathy. How might this influence the way we perceive historical events and individuals?
2. Explore the ethical considerations of using time travel to change the outcome of historical events. What potential challenges or dilemmas could arise from altering the past?
3. If time travel were possible, would you personally be more inclined to explore the past or the future? Why?
4. Consider the practicality of witnessing the future to navigate it more effectively. How might insights from the future be applied to address present challenges?
Introduction>>
Constructive Debater 1 Marie
Constructive Debater 2 Charlotte
Rebuttal Debater 1 Marie 
Rebuttal Debater 2 Charlotte
Judge’s Comments
