Definition and parameter

1. DEFINITION,
PARAMETER

2. Definition
Golden Rule :
Most reasonable definition =
Context + Spirit of the motion
The most reasonable definition creates the best debate.
It is the 1
st
affirmative’s job to offer the most reasonable
definition. His/her role fulfillment is partially assessed
based on how reasonable is the definition offered.
So, it is in the affirmative’s interest to offer the most
reasonable definition.

3. Definition (cont’d)
Context
What is happening in the world or a specific region that
relates to the topic? Those issues should be the focus
of the debate.
Spirit of the motion
What sort of debate was envisioned when this motion
was chosen?
Hint: an issue that would make a good debate.
Your definition must create a reasonably balanced
debate, with enough issues to be sustained over the
course of the debate.

4. Definition (cont’d)
Bad definitions
Truism (true by nature)
Ex: Motion : The sun rises from the East
Def : The sun rises everyday from the East.
What negative can say?
Tautology (self-proving)
Motion: THBT Modern technology is dangerous
Definition : modern technology that when it is operated
will automatically kill millions people is dangerous

5. Definition (cont’d)
Squirreling – not in the spirit of the motion
Motion: THBT PRC should give independence to Tibet
Def: Public Roswell Clinic should let its patient named
Tibet to choose her medication.
Unreasonable place setting
THW send UN Peace-keeping Troops
Def: THW send UN Peace Keeping Troops to help
Diponegoro War at 1825.

6. Definition (cont’d)
Test:
Key question – does it create a good debate?
Can you think of several strong arguments for the
opponent?
Is it reasonable to assert that the opponent should
know about the issue?

7. Definition (cont’d)
Risks of a bad definition:
Definitional challenge  ruins the debate and your
speaker scores!
Confused/angry adjudicators.
Reputation as a team that plays dirty – even if you
didn’t mean to!

8. Definition (cont’d)
Don’t know what the debate is about?
Remember, you’re still required to offer the most
reasonable definition.
You can’t apply the ‘context + spirit of the motion’ rule,
so…
Break down the motion into parts that make sense to
you.
Use principles that apply across the board (ie. role of
government, economic theories, etc.)

9. Parameter
Parameter: it is the limitation of your case
Ex: THBT school tuition should be free
Def: Indonesia students should not pay for SPP
Parameter : for SD students.

10. Your turn…
Make a definition for these topics:
- This House would allow abortion
- This House would ban smoking in public
places
-THBT police who conducts coercion should
be penalized.
-THBT UAN system is not effective.