I have a question for those who are against topping: If topping is bad then why is SCROG one of the most quickly spreading techniques for maximizing yield and uniformity in your growing space? I understand where both sides of this argument are coming from... but you cannot discount the advances in this science the last few decades. I have been strictly outdoor for my whole life, but now that I am indoors with limited space I have adapted my tried and true ways to include topping in order to maximize yield per square foot of space.
I think in the end we are all arguing about personal preference but I do believe that topping has its place and is a viable way to modify your garden profile while maximizing yield potential.