[eDebate] Resoluting AFF Ground - Why K is the solution, not just the problem

[Charles Olney]

> So, I agree with Joe that most teams will debate the topic, I just doubt that a lot of them will debate the resolution as it is voted on.

These affs are topical.

The large majority of "K affs" have a plan text.  The plan text is
usually topical (or at least as topical as any other "regular" plan
text).  They respond to T arguments.  They'll debate whether or not
the plan increases or decreases consumption, whether or not it's an
energy policy, whether or not they are economic assistance to Turkey.

At best, they don't meet the word "should."  But really, come on.

People who are angry about these affs are angry based on disagreements
about the framework, not because the affs aren't topical or
resolutional.  You have a different opinion of what debate ought to
look like.  You don't have a different opinion of what the topic is.

When we get over this knee-jerk "you're not
topical/resolutional/whatever" hurdle, we can actually start
addressing these framework questions on their own terms.  It's an
important first step.  In short, the ability to recognize the
difference between Berkeley SS or Northwestern BM on the aff and a
team that says "debate bad" is HUGE.  One team is concerned about
being topical.  One team thinks it's bad to be topical.  Both teams
have a place in the community, but those places are very different.

On a related, note:
The framework fight was a good one.  It lasted for several years and
somehow managed to win a lot of debates.  It's a losing battle,
though.  Recognize that in the 2005-2006 debate season, to be truly
successful, it's no longer an option to stick your head in the sand
and cry "I'm not interested in what you have to say."

Or, at least it will no longer be an option as soon as Klinger
graduates.  That boy sure can debate him some framework.

It'll last for a while longer, and people will still be winning
debates on it many years into the future, but framework arguments are
the new PICs bad.  Community consensus will change and it'll only be a
few folks who refuse to accept it.

Given that, basing topic decisions on the desire or belief that K affs
will fade is ludicrous.

If you decide that you want to encourage topical K affs and discourage
anti-topical ones, you'll be best served by a topic that provides a
space for topical K affs.

If you're not concerned with it, by all means have a containment good
topic.  Just don't be suprised if you find yourself fondly remembering
the days when most K affs WERE topical.

Also, I agree with Chorkey for the most part.  These are not list
topics.  List topics are often good.  A good list topic is great.  If
we're going to not do a list, area topics are not much of a
compromise.

And seriously, check out the Johnny Boy song.  One of the best songs
I've heard in years.

Charles

-- 
And I just can't help believing
Though believing sees me cursed
--Johnny Boy
"You Are the Generation Who Bought More Shoes and You Get What You Deserve"