American Debate explores the changing nature of human rights, such as privacy and individual freedom, in a world of constant, hidden danger. A group of teenagers have the quiet predictability of their lives suddenly and inexplicably shattered when they find themselves trapped together with the threat of a weapon in the room. As the story unfolds, the students are forced to deal with the reality that they may need to sacrifice their basic rights in order to insure their safety. When fear takes over, the classroom begins spiraling towards a cataclysmic clash of the dark side of human nature and the better angels of civilization. With a climax that strips the students of their preconceptions about themselves, each other and life in the modern world, American Debate asks the question: How far would you go to protect your freedom?