Hot tempers and verbal violence in the Knesset sometimes make Israel's legislative body sound more like an unruly crowd at a wrestling match, than the thoughtful, democratic institution it is. As with other democracies, effective government in Israel requires well-mannered debates where members can disagree with each other without being rude or hostile. Unfortunately, political disputes in the Knesset don't always follow the rules. A group of Israeli teens, who are learning the art of argumentation and debate, are determinded to change that.

Troubled by a Lack of Manners

"It's horrendous and disgusting to watch," says Zaki, 15, describing the shouting matches in Israel's parliament. "Besides," he adds critically, "it's not a real argument." Zaki knows a thing or two about arguing; he's a member of an English-speaking debate club that meets after school in Jerusalem. During the 1990s, high school clubs like Zaki's were created throughout Israel by Ann Swersky, an immigrant from South Africa who was appalled by the frequent rudeness she saw in the Knesset.

"I'm afraid that the public has every right to condemn the type of talk we hear in the Knesset," says Zevulun Orlev, a member of the Knesset from the National Religious Party. "I can only say I'm embarrassed by some of my colleagues, who for the sake of a newspaper headline or TV appearance violate all the rules surrounding the proper way of speaking, and seriously harm the Knesset's image in the public's eyes." Some commentators say the verbal violence in the Knesset is only natural considering the very serious issues at stake, but Orlev disagrees. "There's nothing wrong with people raising their voices," he says, "but they can't get so passionate about their position that they lose control."

Debate Clubs teach Civility

Zaki and his friends learn how to debate vigorously without questioning their opponents' personal integrity and motivation. "It's not easy at first," says Mishael Zion, coach of the Israeli Student Debate Team. "Initially, the kids find that they're very good at yelling and shouting, but they soon learn that isn't effective." Zion teaches his debaters to sit silently first, organize their thoughts, and then speak their mind. "That gets them to stop yelling at each other," he adds.

Hayah, 17, from Ofra, learned the lesson well. "I like to talk and argue a lot," she explains boldly. Debating, though, has taught her "to listen to the other side more, and to understand it." The shift in her technique hasn't cramped her style. "I used to think I was always right," she admits. "I still think I'm right," she adds with a mischievous smile, "but now I understand where the other side is coming from."

Courtesy Makes a Comeback

Zaki, who attended the world debate championships in South Africa last year, credits the debate club with helping him make important changes in his personal life, too. "When I first joined," he recalls, "I wrote down my entire speech and read it word for word, while trembling the whole time. But I soon learned to deal with the pressure, and gained self-confidence."

Zaki says that he and his friends believe that debate clubs like theirs "have the power to change the ugly behavior in the Knesset." Zevulun Orlev shares the youngsters' optimism. Such programs, Orlev says, will ensure that "the situation in the Knesset will improve over time."

One thing that might not improve over time, even with strong debate skills, is Zaki's quest to extend his curfew. Does he ever win the argument with his dad about staying out at night? "No," says Zaki, "because parents are still parents, and kids are still kids. But that doesn't stop me from trying."

Tips for Good Debaters

• Recognize a person’s right to ideas different from your own.
• Debate ideas, not personalities.
• Use helpful, not hurtful language.
• Use courtesy titles (Mr., Ms., Sir, etc.) when appropriate.
• Realize that what you say and what people understand may be different.
• Remember that people can agree to disagree.

Three Strikes and You’re Out
Here’s an insider’s look at what happens when a member of the Knesset (MK) loses self-control during a debate.

A CALL TO ORDER
An MK who offends the dignity of the Knesset, or one of its members, is immediately called to order by the Speaker of the Knesset.

DENIAL OF THE RIGHT TO SPEAK
An MK who is cautioned three times during a single session of the Knesset may be stopped from speaking further at that sitting.

EXCLUSION FROM A SITTING
An MK who has been denied the right to speak, and who refuses to cooperate, may be removed (by force if necessary) from a session of the Knesset.

ETHICS COMMITTEE REPRIMAND
An MK may be removed for ten days from the Knesset for failing to follow the rules of courtesy during a debate.