The Great Debate Series

Summary: Each week, ZDNet hosts The Great Debate, a real-time look at the big technology topics of the day and what they mean. Bringing together respected tech experts to debate the hottest tech topics of the day, the series aims to emulate an Oxford-style debate, with a dash of Fight Club mixed in. We expect -- and encourage -- your participation in this forum.

Current Debate

Are our children masters or slaves of their smartphones?

Matt Baxter-Reynolds

Matt Baxter-Reynolds

Charlie Osborne

Charlie Osborne

Today's youth and their smartphones are virtually inseparable. What does this relationship mean for the always-connected generation?

Past Debates

Can Windows 8.1 re-start Windows 8?

Ed Bott calls Microsoft's impending OS release an impressive update. Adrian Kingsley-Hughes thinks it's too little, too late.

June 3, 2013 -- 07:00 GMT (00:00 PDT) Moderated by Lawrence Dignan

249 Comments

Should Microsoft buy Nokia?

Two years ago, Nokia ditched Symbian and adopted Windows Phone. What's next for these mobile partners?

May 6, 2013 -- 07:00 GMT (00:00 PDT) Moderated by Jason Hiner

82 Comments

Should kids be taught to program?

Schools should prepare our children to thrive and compete in a digital world. But is coding a requirement for tech fluency?

April 15, 2013 -- 07:00 GMT (00:00 PDT) Moderated by Lawrence Dignan

102 Comments

Windows 8: Can this OS be saved?

Windows 8 was a bold bet by Microsoft to link PC, tablet and phone interfaces. Is it too soon to say the bet flopped?

April 8, 2013 -- 07:00 GMT (00:00 PDT) Moderated by Larry Dignan

677 Comments