The Debating Chamber

Since its foundation in the 17^th century, the Society, often referred to as ‘The Phil’, has concerned itself with the art of oratory, teaching young people the skills of public speaking and the value of free speech. Traditionally, members of the Society meet in this, The Chamber of The Graduates’ Memorial Building every Thursday evening to debate a topical motion, discuss a paper or hear an address. Most of the ground floor of The GMB is given over to Ireland’s most-​renowned debating chamber. For over a century, this vast and beautiful room has played host to the events and meetings of the Society, from intellectually-​charged debates to the awarding of Honorary Patronages to such illustrious figures as Desmond Tutu, Salman Rushdie, Al Pacino, and John McCain.
The Society’s debating tradition continues to this day, with topical motions argued within The Chamber every Thursday evening. Some of Trinity College’s most renowned figures have played a role in the history of the Society, from Bram Stoker, J.B. Yeats and Egbert Udo Udoma to J.P. Mahaffy, Earnest Walton and Oscar Wilde.
This esteemed history adds to the overwhelming celebrated ambience that the room radiates.