The Debate: Sleepwalking as a Competitive Sport

 

Debate this proposition: Sleepwalking should be considered a competitive sport.

The Debate: Sleepwalking as a Competitive Sport

Moderator: Welcome, everyone! Tonight's debate is a peculiar one. We're here to discuss the proposition: "This house maintains that sleepwalking should be considered a competitive sport." On the affirmative side, we have Ms. Luna, a champion of unconventional sports. Opposing the motion is Dr. Somnus, a leading expert in sleep disorders. Let's begin!

Ms. Luna: Thank you, moderator. Sleepwalking is a fascinating human phenomenon with untapped potential. Imagine the spectacle! Blindfolded participants navigate obstacle courses, assemble puzzles, even create art, all while unconscious. The skill and precision displayed are undeniable!

Dr. Somnus: (chuckles) Ms. Luna, with all due respect, sleepwalking is a medical condition, not a skill. Sleepwalkers are in a state of partial arousal, often disoriented and at risk of injury. Turning this into a competition is not only unethical but dangerous.

Ms. Luna: Safety measures can be implemented, of course. Soft padding, a controlled environment – these are standard precautions in extreme sports. Think of the challenge! Competitors would have to train extensively in their waking state, developing a subconscious "muscle memory" for tasks.

Dr. Somnus: Training someone to walk unconsciously? That's not training, Ms. Luna. It's manipulating a sleep disorder. What about the ethical implications? Should we exploit someone's vulnerability for entertainment?

Ms. Luna: Not at all! Think of the potential for sleep research. Studying these peak performers could unlock secrets about the subconscious mind, leading to advancements in sleep therapy and other medical fields.

Dr. Somnus: While that's an interesting proposition, putting people under such stress could distort the very phenomena we're trying to study. There are far safer ways to conduct sleep research.

Ms. Luna: But wouldn't the competition itself be thrilling? The unpredictability, the sheer audacity of it all! Imagine a sleepwalker scaling a wall, their subconscious mind guiding them. It would push the boundaries of human potential.

Dr. Somnus: Or imagine a sleepwalker falling and injuring themselves. The potential for harm far outweighs any entertainment value. Let's focus on promoting healthy sleep habits, not exploiting a condition that requires understanding and treatment.

Moderator: Thank you both for a stimulating debate. The floor is now open for audience questions!