Harford County Speech and Debate League
Discussion Topics for 1/11/12 - next Wed @ Fallston!
1. On January 1, 2012, eight states increased minimum wages to keep pace with inflation. Overall increases range from 28 to 37 cents. This seemingly small change has big impact both for employees and for businesses. Minimum-wage helps counter the impact of flat or falling wages. The economy benefits when poor people get a raise because they typically spend that money immediately; however, the raise also helps offset another trend in low-wage industries: many businesses maintain labor budgets by cutting employee hours. In what ways can businesses and their employees cooperate to benefit themselves and their clients?
2. The U.S. economy has reached gridlock between polarities in economic theory: liberals vs. conservatives, democrats vs. republicans, and Tea Party vs. Occupy movements. Over the past several decades, legislation by opposing sides has created extreme inconsistencies and has yielded the current economic downturn, which negatively affects not only the U.S. economy, but also the global economy. Currently, the acute disillusionment of vast numbers of people reflects that polarities have generated an unsustainable economic structure. History shows that when two sides entrench, both lose. What NEW ideas, systems, and processes might our leaders develop to create an innovative economy that represents universal human values and promotes growth, success, and mutual stewardship? What strategies can feasibly result in a win-win economic situation?
3. The impact of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan continues to affect the local community and our country as a whole. Returning from combat can present great challenges for veterans as they transition back to the lives and families they left behind. Many veterans also experience Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), an anxiety disorder that can occur after a traumatic or life-threatening event. Since the Iraq and Afghanistan wars began, close to a quarter-million combat veterans have been treated by the Veterans Administration for PTSD. Symptoms may manifest immediately after the event or sometimes years later. As many as one in three veterans who have had traumatic experiences may develop this “invisible” disease that often requires intensive, long-term treatment. Effects are not limited to costs in quality of life for veterans, their families, and their communities, but extend to our national responsibility to take care of the men and women who have served our country. What can we do individually and nationally to ensure that veterans reintegrate successfully and receive the best health treatment possible?
4. Research over the past two decades has analyzed the sleep patterns of teens. Several school systems around the country have shifted school schedules to accommodate the sleep needs of teens while many other school systems have considered the situation but have not made the change. Modifications to school schedules affect not only teens themselves, but also families, school staff, and the business community/employers. What can teens, families, members of the school community, and the community overall do to meet the needs both of teens and of the larger community?
5. HOT TOPIC!!!!! Look for a substantial local, national, and/or international news story released within a day or so of the discussion. Students should prepare by familiarizing themselves with various timely news stories.
