The debate over the shape of the earth has been going on for a long time

Not really. Last century in small pockets.

Personally, I believe Flat Earth to be an amazingly powerful and intuitive thought experiment

I agree with the spirit of the statement, but in point of fact flat earth research (and science, likewise) is vehemently against "thought experiment" (which is merely mythology, and in no way experiment nor science)

I do not stand one way or the other until I can actually go up there and see for myself.

The world and its shape are down here. You don't need to, and won't benefit from - "going up there". Though if you want to go, it is very easy to do.

That said, there are two options.

Incorrect. This is known as a false dichotomy. There are MANY more possibilities that you are not considering. You should join us on the community I created specifically for such discussions and share your views!

The choice is between truth and fiction

Correct!

that won't change the shape of the earth. It will continue to be whatever it is whether we say its round or flat.

Spot on.

The debate really needs to end

All debate (and argument) does. It is merely base sycophantic pageantry, and is pablum beneath all earnest students and intellectuals. We favor earnest study and rational discourse! Join us - click my username (it's the only community I moderate)!