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Our Name
The 1984 is a debating society founded at the University of St Andrews that takes its name from George Orwell’s 1984. Living in the Scottish Isles, Orwell wrote about a world that was entirely fictitious. As he conceived 1984 from his attic, looking out over the Scottish coast, he instead drew the influence of his dystopia from Gaelic history. 1984 is a work steeped in the language, legacy, and views of Scotland. Like Orwell, The 1984 recognizes its position in Scotland, looking out over the North Sea, as one through which to perceive the world.
About Us
The 1984 is at the heart of passionate debate in St Andrews. Every year, we host two kinds of events:
The 1984 Debates: Every other Thursday, students meet for an hour of unscripted debate on the topic of the week. No preparation, experience, or research of any kind is needed.
Formal Debates: Prestigious guest speakers come to St Andrews to engage with The 1984 in structured discussions and debates.
Formal Events
Read more about The 1984's past Formal Events.
Stay tuned for future debates.
The 1984 Debates
Every other Thursday, students meet to debate our topic of the week. Guided with questions set by our Committee, these debates are intended to feel just like sitting in a living room back home, arguing with friends and family. No prior debate experience or knowledge of the topic is needed, and active listening is just as applauded as verbal participation. No resolution is declared, as we encourage students to continue the conversation beyond the debate.
Debates typically begin at 6:30 p.m. and end within the hour.
Our Quintessential Topics
The 1984 Debates
No. I
Mental health issues are usually self-inflicted.
No. II
Censorship should be encouraged.
No. III
There is no moral difference between a meat eater and a cannibal.
No. XI
Free speech should accommodate hate speech.
No. XIII
Society if right to value thinness.
No. XVII
National security is more important than personal freedom.
The 1984 Schedule
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12pm 2025/2026 Committee Applications Open
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7pm 2025/2026 Committee Recruitment Drinks
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11:30pm 2025/2026 Committee Applications Close
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6:30pm Debate
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Donate
Together, we can make St Andrews the heartbeat of passionate debate. Your considerate donation will go directly to help cover the expenses of our distinguished speakers, ensuring that our ticket prices remain as low as possible.
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