Hopkins Political Union

Johns Hopkins' Political Debate and Discussion Society

Who We Are

The Johns Hopkins Political Union (HPU) is the university’s only political dialogue and debate society—dedicated to fostering robust debate, thoughtful discussion, and civic engagement across ideological lines. In collaboration with the SNF Agora Institute at Johns Hopkins, HPU seeks to cultivate a vibrant campus culture of informed and civil debate—grounded in the principles of free expression and viewpoint diversity.

We welcome anyone with an interest in civics or politics—whether left, right, libertarian, or anywhere in between—to listen, engage, and contribute to the dialogue.

FOUNDING PURPOSE AND MISSION

The Hopkins Political Union (HPU) was founded to elevate civic dialogue, champion viewpoint diversity, and promote rigorous intellectual debate at Johns Hopkins University.

Despite being a world-class institution, Johns Hopkins has long lacked a central forum for open political debate, civil disagreement, and the free exchange of ideas among students and faculty. HPU was created in 2024 to fill this void—to bring together students from across the political spectrum in the spirit of civic debate and engagement.

The Union was launched in collaboration with the SNF Agora Institute at Johns Hopkins, Hopkins College Republicans, Hopkins College Democrats, and the Heterodox Academy chapter at JHU.
DEBATE STRUCTURE AND FORMAT

Each meeting of the Hopkins Political Union follows a structured, yet welcoming format designed to encourage thoughtful dialogue and the open exchange of ideas. Sessions are 90 minutes in length and are guided by a semi-formal discussion model—not competitive or parliamentary debate. Our goal is not to win arguments or convert opinions, but to foster understanding, challenge assumptions, and engage earnestly across differences.

Format Overview:

Each session centers around a question—framed to invite both affirmative and opposing viewpoints. Topics may range from hot-button current events to deeper issues in public policy or political philosophy. Students are encouraged to suggest and shape future topics.

Opening Segment (10 minutes):

The invited moderator—from either the SNF Agora or the Heterodox Academy—introduces the session with a brief overview of the topic, its framing, and both the affirmative and negative positions. A pre-debate poll is conducted to capture students' initial stances.

Discussion Phase (60 minutes):

Participants engage in alternating rounds of argument and response. Students may speak for up to 4 minutes, with alternating turns for the affirmative and negative sides. Priority is given to students who have not yet spoken.

Participants may signal an immediate challenge or rebuttal by raising a single finger. These responses take precedence and promote dynamic, responsive exchange.

Reconciliation & Synthesis (Final 15 minutes):

In the closing segment, a second poll is conducted to gauge shifts in opinion. Students then reflect together to explore points of agreement, articulate respectful disagreements, and identify deeper philosophical or policy tensions. This segment seeks to foster synthesis, civil understanding, and common ground.