Join the Debate on Truth

32nd Annual Great American Think-Off Question Announced

The New York Mills Regional Cultural Center is pleased to announce the 2025 Great American Think-Off question: “Is there only one truth, or are there many truths?”  

The stage is set for the 32nd annual Great American Think-Off, a nationally renowned philosophy competition that invites participants of all backgrounds to wrestle with life’s most profound questions. 

People devote significant time to searching for ‘the truth,’ whether in our churches, our schools, or our laboratories.  If we search hard enough, will we all come to the same truth? Or does it turn out there are many possible truths, all correct? In this age of AI deepfakes, social media echo chambers, and sophisticated propaganda machines, how do we even know what to believe? Is ‘the truth’ really out there?

This year’s question about truth promises to spark spirited debates and thought-provoking discussions that resonate far beyond the small town of New York Mills, Minnesota, where the live debate will take place on the second Saturday of June.

The Think-Off is an annual event that encourages everyday people to delve into the complexities of philosophical inquiry. Writers, thinkers, and debaters from across the United States are invited to submit essays presenting their arguments on this year’s question. Submissions are due by April 1, 2025, and four finalists will be selected by May 1, 2025 to debate their stance in front of a live audience on Saturday, June 14, 2025.

The Think-Off, known for its inclusive and engaging format, offers a $500 cash prize to each of the four finalists, plus travel expenses and a weekend in New York Mills, along with the chance to win the title of America’s Greatest Thinker. There is no fee to enter.

“This year’s question challenges us to examine the foundations of truth in a world that often feels divided by differing perspectives,” said Betsy Roder, Executive Director of the New York Mills Regional Cultural Center. “The Great American Think-Off is a testament to the power of civil discourse and the enduring human quest for understanding and connection.”

Participants must take a strong stand in their essays, drawing from personal experience and observations when crafting their arguments. Essays should be no longer than 750 words. To enter the contest, submit your essay online at kulcher.org/think-off/submit-your-essay/ (preferred), email [email protected], or mail your essay to NYMRCC, PO Box 246, New York Mills, MN 56567. 

Since its inception in 1993, the Great American Think-Off has gained national recognition for its focus on civil discourse and making philosophy accessible to everyone. Past questions have explored topics such as the nature of humankind, the dangers of science vs. religion, and the role of technology in society. Each year, the event brings together a diverse audience to celebrate the art of debate and the joy of intellectual curiosity.

Don’t miss this opportunity to participate in a uniquely American tradition. Whether you’re a seasoned thinker or a curious newcomer, the Great American Think-Off welcomes all voices to join the conversation and explore what truth means in today’s world.

For additional contest details, information on the past 31 years of civil debate, and to purchase tickets to attend the debate, visit www.think-off.org, or call the Cultural Center at 218-385-3339.

About the Great American Think-Off: 

Now in its 32nd year, The Great American Think-Off is an exhibition of civil disagreement between powerful ideas being explored by everyday people. Designed to bring philosophy down from the ivory towers of academia and be made accessible to all, the contest has received national acclaim including coverage by C-SPAN, the New York Times, and The Today Show. 

The New York Mills Regional Cultural Center, located in the rural farm and manufacturing town of New York Mills, Minnesota, produces this annual philosophy contest and encourages people of all ages and backgrounds to participate. 

To get a better sense of the Think-Off, find details, historical information, and a list of the past 30 years of questions and winners on the event website think-off.org.

About the Cultural Center

The New York Mills Regional Cultural Center is a rural hub for creativity, community vitality, and lifelong learning in the arts. Since its incorporation in 1990, the Center has connected people to artists and rich cultural experiences in rural Minnesota, celebrating the local and being a window to the world. The Center offers visitors intimate opportunities to encounter art and artists in its 80-seat concert listening room, visual art gallery in a historic building, gift store featuring local artists, artist residency program, sculpture park, and a variety of opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive. For more information, call 218-385-3339, or visit www.kulcher.org.