First Try on Bio Tech Case
After downloading a ton of free evidence from the NDCA (see previous post here) I was reviewing what cases seemed to make the most sense to me. One that stood out was the bio technology case.
Basic idea behind the case is that Africa’s agriculture can’t quite seem to produce enough food to feed the continent. As such, massive hunger and famine ensue. One potential solution would be to introduce genetically modified crops that would be resistant to disease, better able to withstand drought, etc… A way the US Federal Government could assist is through taking back patents issued by the US to biotech companies that restrict the ability for African scientists to research biotech.
There are quite a few strong negative case strategies against this case. First, you have topicality – While I included some cards that public health = food, there are some strong cards on the other side as well. Second, a major weakness of this case is that you are basically diving right into a genetically modified food debate where there is strong evidence on both sides. The negative file includes two great turns – honeybees and superweeds. But sometimes this plays to the AFF advantage since you are hopefully well prepared to debate GM foods. Third, another major weakness is the classic research and development disadvantage. This case basically guts incentive for companies to R&D biotech if the USFG is just going to take back patents that make companies the $$$ to fund their research. You’ll definitely want to have answers ready for that disadvantage.
Overall, I always like patent debates. I think there are good arguments on both sides and lots to talk about. Please leave any comments you have regarding the case below and we can figure out how to make it stronger!
Here is the 1AC shell, some AFF answers (extensions to read after the 1AC in the debate if you have time!), and a first attempt at a NEG file. Whenever you write up a case you always want to shoot for these three files so you are ready no matter what happens at a tournament. If someone happens to run biotech against you, you’ll need the neg file too!
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