Round Table (Meaning and Explanation)

We explain what a round table is, its objective, participants and other characteristics. Also, differences with a debate.

What is a round table?

A round table is a type of group dynamic in which a topic of common interest for the participants is addressed, so that they carry out a discussion in which their points of view are held exactly equal.

Its name derives from this last meaning, since at a round table there are no positions of power (traditionally, people of authority sit at the head of the table), but rather everyone who sits at it is at the same level.

Round tables are common in different contexts and events, such as conferences, fairs, television shows and negotiations, always around a specific topic. There may or may not be a moderator, and the debate takes place according to rules agreed in advanceto ensure that the exchange of ideas is peaceful and civilized. Logically, these debates must take place at a (physical) table, although it is not always round.

In the Western imagination, the mention of the round table of the Knights of King Arthur is famous, part of a cycle of medieval stories starring the defenders of the kingdom of Camelot, ruled by King Arthur. The king and his closest military nobles sat at this table, as well as, according to certain versions, the magician Merlin.

Characteristics of round tables

Round tables, in general, are characterized by:

Explore a topic of interest to all participants (and for the audience), bringing together various opinion leaders or specialists whose different positions will be presented and contrasted with each other.
Attendees are on the same level as each other, and there may or may not be a formal moderator to make things easier. Each one will have the same opportunity to present their arguments. and after participating in the debate.
There may or may not be questions open to the publicgenerally at the end of all interventions.

The duration of a round table generally covers three phases:

Openingin which the participants are identified and the public is introduced to the topic to be discussed, and the rules for participation in the event are given.
Exposurein which each participant intervenes, in turns, to offer their particular approach to the subject. If there is, the moderator will then make a quick summary of what each one has said.
Closingin which each speaker gives final opinions, draws conclusions, asks questions of the other or argues in favor of his or her position. The moderator, if any, then highlights the conclusions obtained and offers participation to the audience.

Objective of a round table

The objective of a round table is approach a topic from diverse, generally contradictory, perspectivesand try to establish a common perspective or at least some kind of working conclusions. Unlike other types of debate, the round table should not necessarily solve the problem or offer solutions, but it should present each of the positions and establish the bases for future and possible debates.

Participants of a round table

The participants in a round table (between three and six people usually) They are very informed people on the matter to be discussed.whether they are specialists in the matter or not, and They generally have different points of view or contrasting with each other. The physical presence of the audience and the moderator are optional.

Round table and debate

round table debate — Debates usually take place in a more confrontational atmosphere than round tables.

A distinction is commonly made between a round table and a debate itself. This difference lies in the fact that The round table invites negotiation without hierarchiesthat is, at the same level between the participants, and therefore encourages the obtaining of more or less conciliatory conclusions.

Instead, Debates usually consist of oral confrontations of antagonistic ideasexhibited by two or more participants who occupy opposite positions (even physically). The debates are open to comments and refutations, interruptions and comments between their participants, and in general to a more hostile and confrontational environment.