FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • Every Thursday at 7:00 p.m., we meet in Demosthenian Hall. Meetings are conducted according to Robert’s Rules of Order, following formal parliamentary procedure. Each meeting features three debates: the first focuses on a political topic, the second on a philosophical topic, and the third on a humorous subject. 

  • Members of Demosthenian draft resolutions, our term for debate topics, and present them during meetings. The President selects which members will deliver a resolution, but does not necessarily know the subject in advance. Any member may submit a resolution, and its content remains unknown to the Society until it is formally presented.

  • Guests are highly encouraged to speak at the meetings; however, they are not required to do so.

  • Members are required to wear neat and proper attire, and usually dress in business casual. Guests do not have a dress code but are encouraged to dress business casual.

  • Any student registered at the University of Georgia is eligible for membership in the Society. Undergraduate and Graduate students can join.

  • Information on how to join can be found by clicking here.

  • No! Demosthenian is a non-competitive debate society. We are all here to become better debaters and speakers, and Demosthenian gives everyone that opportunity to do that in a welcoming and encouraging environment. 

  • Members have attendance requirements and must pay dues. Dues are $20 a semester. Members cannot be absent for three consecutive meetings during a semester, or five meetings at any time during a semester. Excused absences are permitted at the discretion of the Secretary.

  • The Demosthenian Literary Society offers countless opportunities to get involved. Throughout the year, we host a wide range of social events, workshops, and special programs designed to engage our members both intellectually and socially. Members may also join one of seven committees, each providing unique leadership and service opportunities.

    Join the Interest GroupMe to receive announcements on upcoming events.

  • In the 19th century, literary societies existed at almost all academic institutions. Literary societies provided students with opportunities to practice rhetoric, analyze literature and politics, and present original work in a formal setting. Literary societies declined in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries as the number and variety of other student organizations increased. Some societies, including Demosthenian, still survive today and operate as independent organizations.