Ben Shapiro became particularly well known for his university debates, television appearances and online videos. It is fascinating to watch him grill some of the most established figures in World media and journalism, making them appear almost like schoolboys struggling to keep up with his rapid-fire questioning.
I like the contrast between his youthful appearance and his debating style. He looks almost like a schoolboy himself, but the moment he opens his mouth, he can make much older and more experienced interviewers look like schoolboys.
See how he does it and watch this short clip: Piers Morgan being humiliated
What is at the heart of his debating power?
Ben Shapiro doesn't beat around the bush. He gets straight to the point, fires questions like bullets and leaves very little room for waffle. Watching him debate is like watching a verbal fencing match: quick moves, sharp attacks and an opponent constantly forced to defend their position.
He is concise and factual. He doesn't waste his breath on fluff or unnecessary embellishments. Some people believe that using big words and sophisticated expressions makes them sound superior. But if those impressive words aren't backed by equally impressive ideas, what is the point?
Shapiro is sharp, quick-witted and unapologetically direct. He doesn't appear intimidated by status, seniority or reputation. He challenges people regardless of who they are and argues fierlessly for his beliefs.
Ben's Best Practices
His debating style is unmatched; its main characteristics are:
Very rapid speech
Extensive use of facts and statistics
Asking pointed, direct questions, thus forcing people to explain and defend their arguments
Challenging inconsistencies by identifying contradictions and exposing them
Short, memorable statements like:
"Facts don't care about your feelings." - A punchy contrast between evidence and emotion
"That's a change of topic." - Exposes an attempt to avoid the original question
"Let's be clear about what we're discussing." - Brings the conversation back under control
Elocution and public-speaking perspective
Ben demonstrates an important lesson: the power of speech lies not in how complicated your vocabulary is, but in how clearly, confidently and effectively you express your ideas.
He uses:
Speed: Speaks extremely quickly, making it very difficult for opponents to interrupt
Articulation: Precise consonants and clearly defined words
Structure: Builds arguments through a sequence of questions and answers
Contrast: Uses opposing ideas to make his arguments memorable
Confidence: Maintains a highly assertive debating style
How can you develop these skills?
You might not agree with everything Ben Shapiro says, but there is no denying that his debating style offers valuable lessons in verbal communication.
The ability to articulate your thoughts clearly, speak fluently, structure your arguments and deliver your message with confidence is not something people are born with. It can be developed through regular practice
Here are my BaTCS apps to help you sharpen your articulation and fluency:
British English
Get Rid of Your Accent UK1 App (iOS / Android) – ideal for mastering Received Pronunciation (RP).
Fluent English Speech App (iOS / Android) – designed to help you develop natural English intonation.
Business English Speech (iOS / Android) – helps you develop professional vocabulary and business communication in RP.
American English
American Accent App (iOS / Android) – practise American pronunciation and articulation.
Fluent American Speech (iOS / Android) – develop fluency and natural American English intonation.
Yours
Olga Smith