Theoretical Observations

– apply theory to the resolution’s circumstances

Theoretical Observations draw on accepted theories in political science, economics, international relations, and other academic disciplines. This Framework aims to describe how the resolution would play out in the real world. Theory can help the judge understand the resolution and provide a logical foundation for your arguments. Most of us don’t walk around knowing how countries relate to one another or the basics of macroeconomics. So it’s safe to assume your judge doesn’t either. As Zoffer explains, theory can help “tell the story” of the resolution for the judge.

Theoretical observations should explain a complicated resolution or policy in more relatable terms. A good theoretical observation will:

– Identify the actor, the action type, and the stimulus for the action in the resolution.
– The theory applied will answer the question “What result should be expected of affirming or negating the resolution?”
– Apply the theory in concrete, specific ways to the resolution’s circumstances.
– Give real world examples to prove the theory’s validity.
– Describe a pattern of actions and results.
– Provide the judge a way to prefer your arguments through the lens of the theory; illustrate how the judge can prefer your side if the theory is applied to competing arguments in the debate.

Theoretical observations are most useful for topics that concern political actors, foreign policy, economic policy, and risk/threat analysis. Theory draws on historical precedent to predict future action. These topics are broad and require analysis of multiple variables. For these reasons, theory can provide clarity to a complex topic. Always make sure your theory is accepted in academic circles.

Theoretical Observations are only as valuable as your clear explanation and application of the theory. The material available on a single theory can fill an entire textbook or take a significant part of a college course to explain. Therefore when you try to apply a theory to a resolution within a four minute case, you must make sure that your reasoning and your explanation is concise and clear. You also risk not fully establishing a Theoretical Observation in this limited time and leave your Observation open to refutations. Due to the nature of a theory, there are always going to be examples that disprove the hypothesis it presents. Carefully select when to use a Theoretical Observation and how you will use this type of Framework.

Also, the theory must be simple to explain so that it clarifies the round. Don’t confuse the judge. Finally, use a theory that you and your partner understand. Debating a concept you don’t understand will only lead to embarrassment. Your best check for clarity is to explain the theory to your parents – unless they happen to be an expert in that field. If you cannot explain it in an intelligible way to your parents, then your options are to improve your explanation or select another theory.

To select a theory, first identify the actor and action of the resolution. Then, figure out the stimulus or reason behind the possible action. The stimulus often is the intended goal of the action or the context that creates the need for action. From these details you should find a theory that encompasses the actor, action, and stimulus of the resolution and helps explain the relationship between these variables.