The Philonomosian Society

Collegiate debate program

Georgetown University

• Georgetown University Hilltop Campus · Washington, DC

Activity: Unconfirmed

GISME describes weekly meetings and the Society showcases a 2025 McGuigan Debate, but no dated activity in 2025–26 or 2026–27 is documented on the public pages.

Verified 2026-11-02.

Claiming and corrections are free. A coach or authorized officer can request access.

How the program debates

The modern Society operates under the Georgetown Institute for the Study of Markets and Ethics after the original group went dormant following the 1931–32 academic year. Weekly resolutions span business, public policy, ethics, law and philosophy. Sessions pair affirmative and negative openings with cross-examination, rebuttals, audience speeches and a closing vote; members choose a cohort but may speak on either side.

Debate formats

Not documented.

Circuits and associations

Not documented.

Joining and participation

Eligibility

Membership is open to Georgetown undergraduate and graduate students across programs.SourceSource

How to join

Applicants choose one of five debating cohorts: Progressive, Liberal, Independent, Federalist or Tory. Members may change cohorts as their views develop.SourceSource

Practice arrangements

Weekly debates are Wednesdays from 8–10 p.m. in room 415 of the Rafik B. Hariri Building.SourceSource

History and achievements

The original society was founded in 1839 and went dormant after the 1931–32 academic year. The current GISME-supported organization reports a revival in 2023.SourceSource

Historical connections and results describe the named program and season. Contact the program for current participation details.