Literific Society Spotlight
by Heidi Kidd
Introduction
The Literary and Scientific Society is a debating society at Queen’s University Belfast that ‘promotes the skills of debate and public speaking’ (Literific website). Combining weekly debating events and a lively social scene, the Literific Society provides an important platform for discourse for all students.
History of the Literific
Formed in 1850, the Literary and Scientific Society is the oldest at QUB. E.L. Godkin, who went on to be editor of The Nation and The Evening Standard, was the founding president. At the time of its founding, it did not act in the contemporary debating structure we see today. It originally took the form of a stage for academic discussion. Following an amalgamation between the Literary and Scientific society and the Debating society in 1885, it acquired the debating format we see today. Due to the contentious political environment in Northern Ireland in the 1900s, the Literific was faced with problems. After taking many forms, it was fully rejuvenated in 2011 and is now the thriving society we see today. With such a rich history, the Literific continues to conserve its powerful legacy of provocative and stimulating discourse.
Debating
Weekly debates are held at 7pm every Thursday during term time, on a variety of topics. With motions ranging from ‘this house would abolish the monarchy’ to ‘this house believes our brains are rotted’, these weekly debates have something for everyone. As well as attending the debates, you can also volunteer to argue for a motion. Debates are generally structured with three speakers for both the proposition and opposition.
Alongside these weekly debates, the Literific also hosts LitTalks and Great Debates. LitTalks involve prominent figures from all aspects of public life coming to deliver thought-provoking dialogue and an ensuing Q&A. From Theresa May to Archbishops, a plethora of notable speakers are hosted. There is also opportunities to get involved in debates with other universities. There are a variety of tournaments and competitions that are available to show off your public speaking skills.
Social events
While some of the debate topics may be serious, the social aspect is anything but that; pints often follow even the most solemn of debates. Pub crawls, drunk debates and fancy formals are among the many social events Literific goers attend. The vibrant social scene is a community that is open to all students regardless of their degree, background, and experience. You don’t need to have any debating experience to attend; everyone is welcome.
Note to all societies; the Literific is hosting the upcoming Grand Tourney. This is a great opportunity for all Queen’s societies to take part in.
Find out more!
To learn more about the Literific, check out their social media and website below. Also check out their term card on the back page of this newspaper, which showcases the upcoming debates for the 2025/2026 spring semester.
Instagram: @qubliterific
Facebook: The Literific
Twitter: @QUBLiterific
Website: https://literific.org
References:
Literific website: https://literific.org
