If it wasn't for debate and discourse no progress would have ever been made.

I think the idea of debate and debating is an incredible tool in the shaping of people and developing themselves as people. i think its a natural process to form and develop ideas and as we all know, everyone is different and thinks in different ways. Debate is never a waste of time because even though obviously great things have come out of conflicting views, i dont think you could ever say that it is not good for a person to express views and debate ideas. like i say, it makes us us! its natural!

what will happen on december 21 2012 ?

A debate is only worthwhile if both parties have reasonably well-developed thinking skills.

Most people, however, aren't in this category. Advertisers aim their commercials at persons with elementary-school thinking ability for a practical reason. Most citizens are in this category.

CreateDebate says it is a "social tool based entirely on participation and democracy". It follows that most debate will be conducted at a low level.

For a debate to be useful, the debaters need to be knowledgeable. A doctor knows more about health issues than an auto mechanic. The mechanic knows more about car maintenance than a doctor. If there is a debate about religion, the principle debaters should have studied religions and know more than the man-in-the-street. Unfortunately, most debates are between people with strong opinions but little knowledge.

You, the reader, are of course the exception! :-)

Devil's advocate here. Debate--especially online--is a futile effort to convince others while they themselves are attempting to convince you. With everyone busy talking, no one listens, nothing is learned, and no progress is made. Rather than wasting time debating, we should be out learning about the world, experiencing truths, and establishing for ourselves why our prejudices exist as they do.