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112 Persuasive Speech Topics That Are Actually Engaging

What’s covered:, how to pick an awesome persuasive speech topic, 112 engaging persuasive speech topics, tips for preparing your persuasive speech.

Writing a stellar persuasive speech requires a carefully crafted argument that will resonate with your audience to sway them to your side. This feat can be challenging to accomplish, but an engaging, thought-provoking speech topic is an excellent place to start.

When it comes time to select a topic for your persuasive speech, you may feel overwhelmed by all the options to choose from—or your brain may be drawing a completely blank slate. If you’re having trouble thinking of the perfect topic, don’t worry. We’re here to help!

In this post, we’re sharing how to choose the perfect persuasive speech topic and tips to prepare for your speech. Plus, you’ll find 112 persuasive speech topics that you can take directly from us or use as creative inspiration for your own ideas!

Choose Something You’re Passionate About

It’s much easier to write, research, and deliver a speech about a cause you care about. Even if it’s challenging to find a topic that completely sparks your interest, try to choose a topic that aligns with your passions.

However, keep in mind that not everyone has the same interests as you. Try to choose a general topic to grab the attention of the majority of your audience, but one that’s specific enough to keep them engaged.

For example, suppose you’re giving a persuasive speech about book censorship. In that case, it’s probably too niche to talk about why “To Kill a Mockingbird” shouldn’t be censored (even if it’s your favorite book), and it’s too broad to talk about media censorship in general.

Steer Clear of Cliches

Have you already heard a persuasive speech topic presented dozens of times? If so, it’s probably not an excellent choice for your speech—even if it’s an issue you’re incredibly passionate about.

Although polarizing topics like abortion and climate control are important to discuss, they aren’t great persuasive speech topics. Most people have already formed an opinion on these topics, which will either cause them to tune out or have a negative impression of your speech.

Instead, choose topics that are fresh, unique, and new. If your audience has never heard your idea presented before, they will be more open to your argument and engaged in your speech.

Have a Clear Side of Opposition

For a persuasive speech to be engaging, there must be a clear side of opposition. To help determine the arguability of your topic, ask yourself: “If I presented my viewpoint on this topic to a group of peers, would someone disagree with me?” If the answer is yes, then you’ve chosen a great topic!

Now that we’ve laid the groundwork for what it takes to choose a great persuasive speech topic, here are over one hundred options for you to choose from.

• Should high school athletes get tested for steroids?
• Should schools be required to have physical education courses?
• Should sports grades in school depend on things like athletic ability?
• What sport should be added to or removed from the Olympics?
• Should college athletes be able to make money off of their merchandise?
• Should sports teams be able to recruit young athletes without a college degree?
• Should we consider video gamers as professional athletes?
• Is cheerleading considered a sport?
• Should parents allow their kids to play contact sports?
• Should professional female athletes be paid the same as professional male athletes?
• Should college be free at the undergraduate level?
• Is the traditional college experience obsolete?
• Should you choose a major based on your interests or your potential salary?
• Should high school students have to meet a required number of service hours before graduating?
• Should teachers earn more or less based on how their students perform on standardized tests?
• Are private high schools more effective than public high schools?
• Should there be a minimum number of attendance days required to graduate?
• Are GPAs harmful or helpful?
• Should schools be required to teach about standardized testing?
• Should Greek Life be banned in the United States?
• Should schools offer science classes explicitly about mental health?
• Should students be able to bring their cell phones to school?
• Should all public restrooms be all-gender?
• Should undocumented immigrants have the same employment and education opportunities as citizens?
• Should everyone be paid a living wage regardless of their employment status?
• Should supremacist groups be able to hold public events?
• Should guns be allowed in public places?
• Should the national drinking age be lowered?
• Should prisoners be allowed to vote?
• Should the government raise or lower the retirement age?
• Should the government be able to control the population?
• Is the death penalty ethical?

Environment

• Should stores charge customers for plastic bags?
• Should breeding animals (dogs, cats, etc.) be illegal?
• Is it okay to have exotic animals as pets?
• Should people be fined for not recycling?
• Should compost bins become mandatory for restaurants?
• Should electric vehicles have their own transportation infrastructure?
• Would heavier fining policies reduce corporations’ emissions?
• Should hunting be encouraged or illegal?
• Should reusable diapers replace disposable diapers?

Science & Technology

• Is paper media more reliable than digital news sources?
• Should automated/self-driving cars be legalized?
• Should schools be required to provide laptops to all students?
• Should software companies be able to have pre-downloaded programs and applications on devices?
• Should drones be allowed in military warfare?
• Should scientists invest more or less money into cancer research?
• Should cloning be illegal?
• Should societies colonize other planets?
• Should there be legal oversight over the development of technology?

Social Media

• Should there be an age limit on social media?
• Should cyberbullying have the same repercussions as in-person bullying?
• Are online relationships as valuable as in-person relationships?
• Does “cancel culture” have a positive or negative impact on societies?
• Are social media platforms reliable information or news sources?
• Should social media be censored?
• Does social media create an unrealistic standard of beauty?
• Is regular social media usage damaging to real-life interactions?
• Is social media distorting democracy?
• How many branches of government should there be?
• Who is the best/worst president of all time?
• How long should judges serve in the U.S. Supreme Court?
• Should a more significant portion of the U.S. budget be contributed towards education?
• Should the government invest in rapid transcontinental transportation infrastructure?
• Should airport screening be more or less stringent?
• Should the electoral college be dismantled?
• Should the U.S. have open borders?
• Should the government spend more or less money on space exploration?
• Should students sing Christmas carols, say the pledge of allegiance, or perform other tangentially religious activities?
• Should nuns and priests become genderless roles?
• Should schools and other public buildings have prayer rooms?
• Should animal sacrifice be legal if it occurs in a religious context?
• Should countries be allowed to impose a national religion on their citizens?
• Should the church be separated from the state?
• Does freedom of religion positively or negatively affect societies?

Parenting & Family

• Is it better to have children at a younger or older age?
• Is it better for children to go to daycare or stay home with their parents?
• Does birth order affect personality?
• Should parents or the school system teach their kids about sex?
• Are family traditions important?
• Should parents smoke or drink around young children?
• Should “spanking” children be illegal?
• Should parents use swear words in front of their children?
• Should parents allow their children to play violent video games?

Entertainment

• Should all actors be paid the same regardless of gender or ethnicity?
• Should all award shows be based on popular vote?
• Who should be responsible for paying taxes on prize money, the game show staff or the contestants?
• Should movies and television shows have ethnicity and gender quotas?
• Should newspapers and magazines move to a completely online format?
• Should streaming services like Netflix and Hulu be free for students?
• Is the movie rating system still effective?
• Should celebrities have more privacy rights?

Arts & Humanities

• Are libraries becoming obsolete?
• Should all schools have mandatory art or music courses in their curriculum?
• Should offensive language be censored from classic literary works?
• Is it ethical for museums to keep indigenous artifacts?
• Should digital designs be considered an art form? 
• Should abstract art be considered an art form?
• Is music therapy effective?
• Should tattoos be regarded as “professional dress” for work?
• Should schools place greater emphasis on the arts programs?
• Should euthanasia be allowed in hospitals and other clinical settings?
• Should the government support and implement universal healthcare?
• Would obesity rates lower if the government intervened to make healthy foods more affordable?
• Should teenagers be given access to birth control pills without parental consent?
• Should food allergies be considered a disease?
• Should health insurance cover homeopathic medicine?
• Is using painkillers healthy?
• Should genetically modified foods be banned?
• Should there be a tax on unhealthy foods?
• Should tobacco products be banned from the country?
• Should the birth control pill be free for everyone?

If you need more help brainstorming topics, especially those that are personalized to your interests, you can  use CollegeVine’s free AI tutor, Ivy . Ivy can help you come up with original persuasive speech ideas, and she can also help with the rest of your homework, from math to languages.

Do Your Research

A great persuasive speech is supported with plenty of well-researched facts and evidence. So before you begin the writing process, research both sides of the topic you’re presenting in-depth to gain a well-rounded perspective of the topic.

Understand Your Audience

It’s critical to understand your audience to deliver a great persuasive speech. After all, you are trying to convince them that your viewpoint is correct. Before writing your speech, consider the facts and information that your audience may already know, and think about the beliefs and concerns they may have about your topic. Then, address these concerns in your speech, and be mindful to include fresh, new information.

Have Someone Read Your Speech

Once you have finished writing your speech, have someone read it to check for areas of strength and improvement. You can use CollegeVine’s free essay review tool to get feedback on your speech from a peer!

Practice Makes Perfect

After completing your final draft, the key to success is to practice. Present your speech out loud in front of a mirror, your family, friends, and basically, anyone who will listen. Not only will the feedback of others help you to make your speech better, but you’ll become more confident in your presentation skills and may even be able to commit your speech to memory.

Hopefully, these ideas have inspired you to write a powerful, unique persuasive speech. With the perfect topic, plenty of practice, and a boost of self-confidence, we know you’ll impress your audience with a remarkable speech!

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150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics for Students in 2024

April 1, 2024

Do you know that moment in your favorite film, when the soundtrack begins to swell and the main character stands up and delivers a speech so rousing, so impassioned, it has the entire room either weeping or cheering by the time it concludes? What distinguishes the effectiveness of such a speech is not only the protagonist’s stellar delivery but also the compelling nature of the subject matter at hand. Choosing an effective persuasive speech topic is essential for guaranteeing that your future speech or essay is as moving as these . If this sounds like a tall order, have no fear. Below you’ll find a list of some of the best and most interesting persuasive speech topics for high school students to tackle, from the playful (“Pets for President”) to the serious (“Should We Stop AI from Replacing Human Workers?”).

And if you’re craving more inspiration, feel free to check out this list of Great Debate Topics , which can be used to generate further ideas.

What is a Good Persuasive Speech?

Before we get to the list, we must address the question on everyone’s minds: what is a persuasive speech, and what the heck makes for a good persuasive speech topic? A persuasive speech is a speech that aims to convince its listeners of a particular point of view . At the heart of each persuasive speech is a central conflict . Note: The persuasive speech stands in contrast to a simple informative speech, which is intended purely to convey information. (I.e., an informative speech topic might read: “The History of Making One’s Bed,” while a persuasive speech topic would be: “Why Making One’s Bed is a Waste of Time”—understand?)

And lest you think that persuasive speeches are simply assigned by your teachers as a particularly cruel form of torture, remember that practicing your oratory skills will benefit you in all areas of life—from job interviews, to business negotiations, to your future college career in public policy or international relations . Knowing how to use your voice to enact meaningful change is a valuable skill that can empower you to make a difference in the world.

Components of a Great Persuasive Speech Topic

The ideal persuasive speech topic will inspire the audience to action via both logical arguments and emotional appeals. As such, we can summarize the question “what makes a good persuasive speech topic?” by saying that the topic must possess the following qualities:

• Timeliness and Relevance . Great persuasive speech topics grapple with a contemporary issue that is meaningful to the listener at hand. The topic might be a current news item, or it might be a long-standing social issue. In either case, the topic should be one with real-world implications.
• Complexity . A fruitful persuasive speech topic will have many facets. Topics that are controversial, with some gray area, lend themselves to a high degree of critical thinking. They also offer the speaker an opportunity to consider and refute all counterarguments before making a compelling case for his or her own position.
• Evidence . You want to be able to back up your argument with clear evidence from reputable sources (i.e., not your best friend or dog). The more evidence and data you can gather, the more sound your position will be. In addition, your audience will be more inclined to trust you.
• Personal Connection. Do you feel passionately about the topic you’ve chosen? If not, it may be time to go back to the drawing board. This does not mean you have to support the side you choose; sometimes, arguing for the opposing side of what you personally believe can be an effective exercise in building empathy and perspective. Either way, though, the key is to select a topic that you care deeply about. Your passion will be infectious to the audience.

150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics

• Should tech companies regulate the development of AI systems and automation to protect humans’ jobs?
• Should we limit screen time for children?
• Is it ethical for AI models like Dall-E to train themselves on artists’ work without the artists’ permission?
• Should the government regulate the use of personal drones?
• Is mass surveillance ethical? Does its threat to civil liberties outweigh its benefits?
• Are virtual reality experiences a valuable educational tool?
• Do the positive effects of powerful AI systems outweigh the risks?
• Do voice assistants like Siri and Alexa invade individuals’ privacy?
• Are cell phone bans in the classroom effective for improving student learning?
• Does the use of facial recognition technology in public violate individuals’ privacy?
• Should students be allowed to use ChatGPT and other AI tools for writing assignments?
• Should AI-generated art be allowed in art shows or contests?
• Who holds responsibility for accidents caused by self-driving cars: the driver or the car company?

Business and Economy

• Should we do away with the minimum wage? Why or why not?
• Is it ethical for companies to use unpaid internships as a source of labor?
• Does the gig economy benefit or harm workers?
• Is capitalism the best economic system?
• Is it ethical for companies to use sweatshops in developing countries?
• Should the government provide free healthcare for all citizens?
• Should the government regulate prices on pharmaceutical drugs?
• Should the government enact a universal base income?
• Should customers be required to tip a minimum amount in order to ensure food service workers make a living wage?
• Should someone’s tattoos or personal appearance factor into the hiring process?
• Should US workers have more vacation time?
• Is big game hunting beneficial for local communities?
• Should we legalize euthanasia?
• Is it ethical to use animals for medical research?
• Is it ethical to allow access to experimental treatments for terminally ill patients?
• Should we allow genetic engineering in humans?
• Is the death penalty obsolete?
• Should we allow the cloning of humans?
• Is it ethical to allow performance-enhancing drugs in sports?
• Should embryonic stem cell collection be allowed?
• Do frozen IVF embryos have rights?
• Should state and federal investigators be allowed to use DNA from genealogy databases?
• Should the government limit how many children a couple can have?
• Is spanking children an acceptable form of discipline?
• Should we allow parents to choose their children’s physical attributes through genetic engineering?
• Should we require parents to vaccinate their children?
• Should we require companies to give mandatory paternal and maternal leave?
• Should children be allowed to watch violent movies and video games?
• Should parents allow their teenagers to drink before they turn 21?
• Should the government provide childcare?
• Should telling your children about Santa Claus be considered lying?
• Should one parent stay home?
• Should parental consent be required for minors to receive birth control?
• Is it an invasion of privacy for parents to post photographs of their children on social media?

Social Media

• Should social media platforms ban political ads?
• Do the benefits of social media outweigh the downsides?
• Should the government hold social media companies responsible for hate speech on their platforms?
• Is social media making us more or less social?
• Do platforms like TikTok exacerbate mental health issues in teens?
• Should the government regulate social media to protect citizens’ privacy?
• Is it right for parents to monitor their children’s social media accounts?
• Should social media companies enact a minimum user age restriction?
• Should we require social media companies to protect user data?
• Should we hold social media companies responsible for cyberbullying?
• Should schools ban the use of social media from their networks?
• Should we be allowed to record others without their consent?
• Do online crime sleuths help or hurt criminal investigations?

Education – Persuasive Speech Topics 

• Would trade schools and other forms of vocational training benefit a greater number of students than traditional institutions of higher education?
• Should colleges use standardized testing in their admissions processes?
• Is forcing students to say the Pledge a violation of their right to freedom of speech?
• Should school districts offer bilingual education programs for non-native speakers?
• Should schools do away with their physical education requirements?
• Should schools incorporate a remote learning option into their curriculum?
• Should we allow school libraries to ban certain books?
• Should we remove historical figures who owned slaves from school textbooks and other educational materials?
• Should we have mixed-level classrooms or divide students according to ability?
• Should grading on a curve be allowed?
• Should graphic novels be considered literature?
• Should all students have to take financial literacy classes before graduating?
• Should colleges pay student athletes?
• Should we ban violent contact sports like boxing and MMA?
• Should sports leagues require professional athletes to stand during the national anthem?
• Should sports teams ban players like Kyrie Irving when they spread misinformation or hate speech?
• Should high schools require their athletes to maintain a certain GPA?
• Should the Olympic committee allow transgender athletes to compete?
• Should high schools ban football due to its safety risks to players?
• Should all high school students be required to play a team sport?
• Should sports teams be mixed instead of single-gender?
• Should there be different athletic standards for men and women?
• In which renewable energy option would the US do best to invest?
• Should the US prioritize space exploration over domestic initiatives?
• Should companies with a high carbon footprint be punished?
• Should the FDA ban GMOs?
• Would the world be a safer place without nuclear weapons?
• Does AI pose a greater threat to humanity than it does the potential for advancement?
• Who holds the most responsibility for mitigating climate change: individuals or corporations?
• Should we be allowed to resurrect extinct species?
• Are cancer screening programs ethical?

Social Issues – Persuasive Speech Topics

• College education: should the government make it free for all?
• Should we provide free healthcare for undocumented immigrants?
• Is physician-assisted suicide morally justifiable?
• Does social media have a negative impact on democracy?
• Does cancel culture impede free speech?
• Does affirmative action help or hinder minority groups in the workplace?
• Should we hold public figures and celebrities to a higher standard of morality?
• Should abortion be an issue that is decided at the federal or state level?
• Should the sex offender registry be available to the public?
• Should undocumented immigrants have a path to amnesty?
• Do syringe services programs reduce or increase harmful behaviors?
• Should there be a statute of limitations?
• Should those who are convicted of a crime be required to report their criminal history on job and housing applications?

Politics and Government

• Is the Electoral College still an effective way to elect the President of the US?
• Should we allow judges to serve on the Supreme Court indefinitely?
• Should the US establish a national gun registry?
• Countries like Israel and China require all citizens to serve in the military. Is this a good or bad policy?
• Should the police force require all its officers to wear body cameras while on duty?
• Should the US invest in the development of clean meat as a sustainable protein source?
• Should the US adopt ranked-choice voting?
• Should institutions that profited from slavery provide reparations?
• Should the government return land to Native American tribes?
• Should there be term limits for representatives and senators?
• Should there be an age limit for presidential candidates?
• Should women be allowed in special forces units?

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics

• Should schools have uniforms?
• Can video games improve problem-solving skills?
• Are online classes as effective as in-person classes?
• Should companies implement a four-day work week?
• Co-ed learning versus single-sex: which is more effective?
• Should the school day start later?
• Is homework an effective teaching tool?
• Are electric cars really better for the environment?
• Should schools require all students to study a foreign language?
• Do professional athletes get paid too much money?

Fun Persuasive Speech Topics

• Should we allow pets to run for public office?
• Does pineapple belong on pizza?
• Would students benefit from schools swapping out desks with more comfortable seating arrangements (i.e., bean bag chairs and couches)?
• Is procrastination the key to success?
• Should Americans adopt British accents to sound more intelligent?
• The age-old dilemma: cats or dogs?
• Should meme creators receive royalties when their memes go viral?
• Should there be a minimum drinking age for coffee?
• Are people who make their beds every day more successful than those who don’t?

Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics

• Is the movie ranking system an effective way to evaluate the appropriateness of films?
• Should the government place a “health tax” on junk food?
• Is it ethical to create artificial life forms that are capable of complex emotions?
• Should parents let children choose their own names?
• Creating clones of ourselves to serve as organ donors: ethical or not?
• Is it ethical to engineer humans to be better and more optimized than nature intended?
• Should we adopt a universal language to communicate with people from all countries?
• Should there be a penalty for people who don’t vote?
• Should calories be printed on menus?
• Does tourism positively or negatively impact local communities?
• When used by non-Natives, are dreamcatchers cultural appropriation?
• Should companies require their employees to specify pronouns in their signature line?
• Should commercial fishing be banned?
• Are cemeteries sustainable?
• Is it okay to change the race, culture, and/or gender of historical figures in movies or TV shows?

I’ve Chosen My Topic, Now What?

Once you’ve selected your topic, it’s time to get to work crafting your argument. Preparation for a persuasive speech or essay involves some key steps, which we’ve outlined for you below.

How to Create a Successful Persuasive Speech, Step by Step

• Research your topic. Read widely and smartly. Stick to credible sources, such as peer-reviewed articles, published books, government reports, textbooks, and news articles. The right sources and data will be necessary to help you establish your authority. As you go, take notes on the details and nuances of your topic as well as potential counterarguments. Research the counterarguments, too.
• Choose an angle. For example, if you chose the topic “Should we limit screen time for children?” your speech should come down firmly on one side of that debate. If your topic is frequently debated, such as abortion, capital punishment, gun control, social media, etc. try to find a niche angle or new research. For example, instead of “Should abortion be legal?” you might consider “Should you be able to order abortion pills online?” Another example: “Should the death penalty be banned?” might become “How long is it ethical for someone to stay on death row?” If you do some digging, even the most cliche topics have incredibly interesting and relatively unexplored sub-topics.
• Create an outline. Your outline should include an introduction with a thesis statement, a body that uses evidence to elaborate and support your position while refuting any counterarguments, and a conclusion. The conclusion will both summarize the points made earlier and serve as your final chance to persuade your audience.
• Write your speech. Use your outline to help you as well as the data you’ve collected. Remember: this is not dry writing; this writing has a point of view, and that point of view is yours . Accordingly, use anecdotes and examples to back up your argument. The essential components of this speech are logos (logic), ethos (credibility), and pathos (emotion) . The ideal speech will use all three of these functions to engage the audience.

How to Practice and Deliver a Persuasive Speech

• Talk to yourself in the mirror, record yourself, and/or hold a practice speech for family or friends. If you’ll be using visual cues, a slide deck, or notecards, practice incorporating them seamlessly into your speech. You should practice until your speech feels very familiar, at least 5-10 times.
• Practice body language. Are you making eye contact with your audience, or looking at the ground? Crossing your arms over your chest or walking back and forth across the room? Playing with your hair, cracking your knuckles, or picking at your clothes? Practicing what to do with your body, face, and hands will help you feel more confident on speech day.
• Take it slow. It’s common to talk quickly while delivering a speech—most of us want to get it over with! However, your audience will be able to connect with you much more effectively if you speak at a moderate pace, breathe, and pause when appropriate.
• Give yourself grace. How you recover from a mistake is much more important than the mistake itself. Typically, the best approach is to good-naturedly shrug off a blip and move on. 99% of the time, your audience won’t even notice!

Good Persuasive Speech Topics—Final Thoughts

The art of persuasive speaking is a tricky one, but the tips and tricks laid out here will help you craft a compelling argument that will sway even the most dubious audience to your side. Mastering this art takes both time and practice, so don’t fret if it doesn’t come to you right away. Remember to draw upon your sources, speak with authority, and have fun. Once you have the skill of persuasive speaking down, go out there and use your voice to impact change!

Looking for some hot-button topics in college admissions? You might consider checking out the following:

• Do Colleges Look at Social Media?
• Should I Apply Test-Optional to College?
• Should I Waive My Right to See Letters of Recommendation?
• Should I Use the Common App Additional Information Section?
• High School Success

Lauren Green

With a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing from Columbia University and an MFA in Fiction from the Michener Center for Writers at the University of Texas at Austin, Lauren has been a professional writer for over a decade. She is the author of the chapbook  A Great Dark House  (Poetry Society of America, 2023) and a forthcoming novel (Viking/Penguin).

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 105 interesting persuasive speech topics for any project.

General Education

Are you struggling to find good persuasive speech topics? It can be hard to find a topic that interests both you and your audience, but in this guide we've done the hard work and created a list of 105 great persuasive speech ideas. They're organized into ten categories and cover a variety of topics, so you're sure to find one that interests you.

In addition to our list, we also go over which factors make good persuasive speech topics and three tips you should follow when researching and writing your persuasive speech.

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

What makes certain persuasive speech topics better than others? There are numerous reasons, but in this section we discuss three of the most important factors of great topics for a persuasive speech.

It's Something You Know About or Are Interested in Learning About

The most important factor in choosing and creating a great persuasive speech is picking a topic you care about and are interested in. You'll need to do a lot of research on this topic, and if it's something you like learning about, that'll make the process much easier and more enjoyable. It'll also help you sound passionate and informed when you talk, both important factors in giving an excellent persuasive speech.

It's a Topic People Care About

In fourth grade, after being told I could give a persuasive speech on any topic I wanted to , I chose to discuss why the Saguaro cactus should be the United State's national plant. Even though I gave an impassioned talk and drew a life-size Saguaro cactus on butcher paper to hang behind me, I doubt anyone enjoyed the speech much.

I'd recently returned from a family vacation to Arizona where I'd seen Saguaro cacti for the first time and decided they were the coolest thing ever. However, most people don't care that much about Saguaro cacti, and most people don't care what our national plant is or if we even have one (for the record, the US has a national flower, and it's the rose).

Spare yourself the smattering of bored applause my nine-old self got at the end of my speech and choose something you think people will be interested in hearing about. This also ties into knowing your audience, which we discuss more in the final section.

It Isn't Overdone

When I was in high school, nearly every persuasive speech my classmates and I were assigned was the exact same topic: should the drinking age be lowered to 18? I got this prompt in English class, on standardized tests, in speech and debate class, etc. I've written and presented about it so often I could probably still rattle off all the main points of my old speeches word-for-word.

You can imagine that everyone's eyes glazed over whenever classmates gave their speeches on this topic. We'd heard about it so many times that, even if it was a topic we cared about, speeches on it just didn't interest us anymore.

The are many potential topics for a persuasive speech. Be wary of choosing one that's cliche or overdone. Even if you give a great speech, it'll be harder to keep your audience interested if they feel like they already know what you're going to say.

An exception to this rule is that if you feel you have a new viewpoint or facts about the topic that currently aren't common knowledge. Including them can make an overdone topic interesting. If you do this, be sure to make it clear early on in your speech that you have unique info or opinions on the topic so your audience knows to expect something new.

105 Topics for a Persuasive Speech

Here's our list of 105 great persuasive speech ideas. We made sure to choose topics that aren't overdone, yet that many people will have an interest in, and we also made a point of choosing topics with multiple viewpoints rather than simplistic topics that have a more obvious right answer (i.e. Is bullying bad?). The topics are organized into ten categories.

Arts/Culture

• Should art and music therapy be covered by health insurance?
• Should all students be required to learn an instrument in school?
• Should all national museums be free to citizens?
• Should graffiti be considered art?
• Should offensive language be removed from works of classic literature?
• Are paper books better than e-books?
• Should all interns be paid for their work?
• Should employees receive bonuses for walking or biking to work?
• Will Brexit hurt or help the UK's economy?
• Should all people over the age of 65 be able to ride the bus for free?
• Should the federal minimum wage be increased?
• Should tipping in restaurants be mandatory?
• Should Black Friday sales be allowed to start on Thanksgiving?
• Should students who bully others be expelled?
• Should all schools require students wear uniforms?
• Should boys and girls be taught in separate classrooms?
• Should students be allowed to listen to music during study hall?
• Should all elementary schools be required to teach a foreign language?
• Should schools include meditation or relaxation breaks during the day?
• Should grades in gym class affect students' GPAs?
• Should teachers get a bonus when their students score well on standardized tests?
• Should children of undocumented immigrants be allowed to attend public schools?
• Should students get paid for getting a certain GPA?
• Should students be allowed to have their cell phones with them during school?
• Should high school students be allowed to leave school during lunch breaks?
• Should Greek life at colleges be abolished?
• Should high school students be required to volunteer a certain number of hours before they can graduate?
• Should schools still teach cursive handwriting?
• What are the best ways for schools to stop bullying?
• Should prostitution be legalized?
• Should people with more than one DUI lose their driver's license?
• Should people be required to shovel snow from the sidewalks in front of their house?
• Should minors be able to drink alcohol in their home if they have their parent's consent?
• Should guns be allowed on college campuses?
• Should flag burning as a form of protest be illegal?
• Should welfare recipients be required to pass a drug test?
• Should white supremacist groups be allowed to hold rallies in public places?
• Should assault weapons be illegal?
• Should the death penalty be abolished?
• Should beauty pageants for children be banned?
• Is it OK to refuse to serve same-sex couples based on religious beliefs?
• Should transgender people be allowed to serve in the military?
• Is it better to live together before marriage or to wait?
• Should affirmative action be allowed?
• Should prisoners be allowed to vote?
• Should Columbus Day be replaced with Indigenous Peoples' Day?

Government/Politics

• Should the government spend more money on developing high-speed rail lines and less on building new roads?
• Should the government be allowed to censor internet content deemed inappropriate?
• Should Puerto Rico become the 51st state?
• Should Scotland declare independence from the United Kingdom?
• Whose face should be on the next new currency printed by the US?
• Should people convicted of drug possession be sent to recovery programs instead of jail?
• Should voting be made compulsory?
• Who was the best American president?
• Should the military budget be reduced?
• Should the President be allowed to serve more than two terms?
• Should a border fence be built between the United States and Mexico?
• Should countries pay ransom to terrorist groups in order to free hostages?
• Should minors be able to purchase birth control without their parent's consent?
• Should hiding or lying about your HIV status with someone you're sleeping with be illegal?
• Should governments tax soda and other sugary drinks and use the revenue for public health?
• Should high schools provide free condoms to students?
• Should the US switch to single-payer health care?
• Should healthy people be required to regularly donate blood?
• Should assisted suicide be legal?
• Should religious organizations be required to pay taxes?
• Should priests be allowed to get married?
• Should the religious slaughter of animals be banned?
• Should the Church of Scientology be exempt from paying taxes?
• Should women be allowed to be priests?
• Should countries be allowed to only accept refugees with certain religious beliefs?
• Should public prayer be allowed in schools?

Science/Environment

• Should human cloning be allowed?
• Should people be allowed to own exotic animals like tigers and monkeys?
• Should "animal selfies" in tourist locations with well-known animal species (like koalas and tigers) be allowed?
• Should genetically modified foods be sold in grocery stores?
• Should people be allowed to own pit bulls?
• Should parents be allowed to choose the sex of their unborn children?
• Should vaccinations be required for students to attend public school?
• What is the best type of renewable energy?
• Should plastic bags be banned in grocery stores?
• Should the United States rejoin the Paris Agreement?
• Should puppy mills be banned?
• Should fracking be legal?
• Should animal testing be illegal?
• Should offshore drilling be allowed in protected marine areas?
• Should the US government increase NASA's budget?
• Should Pluto still be considered a planet?
• Should college athletes be paid for being on a sports team?
• Should all athletes be required to pass regular drug tests?
• Should professional female athletes be paid the same as male athletes in the same sport?
• Are there any cases when athletes should be allowed to use steroids?
• Should college sports teams receive less funding?
• Should boxing be illegal?
• Should schools be required to teach all students how to swim?
• Should cheerleading be considered a sport?
• Should parents let their children play tackle football?
• Will robots reduce or increase human employment opportunities?
• What age should children be allowed to have a cell phone?
• Should libraries be replaced with unlimited access to e-books?
• Overall, has technology helped connect people or isolate them?
• Should self-driving cars be legal?
• Should all new buildings be energy efficient?
• Is Net Neutrality a good thing or a bad thing?
• Do violent video games encourage players to become violent in real life?

3 Bonus Tips for Crafting Your Persuasive Speech

Of course, giving a great persuasive speech requires more than just choosing a good topic. Follow the three tips below to create an outstanding speech that'll interest and impress your audience.

Do Your Research

For a persuasive speech, there's nothing worse than getting an audience question that shows you misunderstood the issue or left an important piece out. It makes your entire speech look weak and unconvincing.

Before you start writing a single word of your speech, be sure to do lots of research on all sides of the topic. Look at different sources and points of view to be sure you're getting the full picture, and if you know any experts on the topic, be sure to ask their opinion too.

Consider All the Angles

Persuasive speech topics are rarely black and white, which means there will be multiple sides and viewpoints on the topic. For example, for the topic "Should people be allowed to own pit bulls?" there are two obvious viewpoints: everyone should be allowed to own a pit bull if they want to, and no one should be allowed to own a pit bull. But there are other options you should also consider: people should only own a pit bull if they pass a dog training class, people should be able to own pit bulls, but only if it's the only dog they own, people should be able to own pi tbulls but only if they live a certain distance from schools, people should be able to own pit bulls only if the dog passes an obedience class, etc.

Thinking about all these angles and including them in your speech will make you seem well-informed on the topic, and it'll increase the quality of your speech by looking at difference nuances of the issue.

Know Your Audience

Whenever you give a speech, it's important to consider your audience, and this is especially true for persuasive speeches when you're trying to convince people to believe a certain viewpoint. When writing your speech, think about what your audience likely already knows about the topic, what they probably need explained, and what aspects of the topic they care about most. Also consider what the audience will be most concerned about for a certain topic, and be sure to address those concerns.

For example, if you're giving a speech to a Catholic organization on why you think priests should be allowed to marry, you don't need to go over the history of Catholicism or its core beliefs (which they probably already know), but you should mention any research or prominent opinions that support your view (which they likely don't know about). They may be concerned that priests who marry won't be as committed to God or their congregations, so be sure to address those concerns and why they shouldn't worry about them as much as they may think. Discussing your topic with people (ideally those with viewpoints similar to those of your future audience) before you give your speech is a good way to get a better understanding of how your audience thinks.

More Resources for Writing Persuasive Speeches

If you need more guidance or just want to check out some examples of great persuasive writing, consider checking out the following books:

• Lend Me Your Ears: Great Speeches in History by William Safire—This collection of great speeches throughout history will help you decide how to style your own argument.
• The Essentials of Persuasive Public Speaking by Sims Wyeth—For quick direct tips on public speaking, try this all-purpose guide.
• Talk Like TED: The 9 Public-Speaking Secrets of the World's Top Minds by Carmine Gallo—This popular book breaks down what makes TED talks work and how you can employ those skills in your own presentations.
• We Should All Be Feminists by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Make Good Art by Neil Gaiman—These two recent speeches by contemporary writers offer stellar examples of how to craft a compelling (and engaging) argument.

Conclusion: Persuasive Speech Ideas

Good persuasive speech topics can be difficult to think of, but in this guide we've compiled a list of 105 interesting persuasive speech topics for you to look through.

The best persuasive speech ideas will be on a topic you're interested in, aren't overdone, and will be about something your audience cares about.

After you've chosen your topic, keep these three tips in mind when writing your persuasive speech:

• Do your research
• Consider all the angles
• Know your audience

What's Next?

Now that you have persuasive speech topics, it's time to hone your persuasive speech techniques. Find out what ethos, pathos, logos, and kairos are and how to use them here .

Looking to take your persuasive technique from speech to sheets (of paper)? Get our three key tips on how to write an argumentative essay , or learn by reading through our thorough breakdown of how to build an essay, step by step .

Want a great GPA? Check out our step-by-step guide to getting good grades in high school so you can have a stellar transcript.

Interested in learning about other great extracurricular opportunities? Learn more about job shadowing , community service , and volunteer abroad programs.

Still trying to figure out your courses? Check out our expert guide on which classes you should take in high school.

These recommendations are based solely on our knowledge and experience. If you purchase an item through one of our links, PrepScholar may receive a commission.

Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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Have any questions about this article or other topics? Ask below and we'll reply!

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125+ Persuasive Speech Topics To Amaze Your Audience

Reviewed by:

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 4/26/24

This article provides a comprehensive list of persuasive speech topics and answers to some of your frequently asked questions about speech topics. 

Persuasive writing is hard, and it’s even harder to try to come up with an engaging topic that interests you and your audience. 

Not only do you have to convince your audience to take your side on subjects that are often pretty divisive, you also have to persuade them to take your side of the argument. The first step to making a successful persuasive speech that will amaze your audience is having a strong topic.  

Keep reading for 125+ persuasive speech topics. 

125+ Topics for a Persuasive Speech

Persuasive speech ideas are harder to come up with than you may think. There is a fine balance between interesting your audience, interesting to you, unique and fresh, all while being thought-provoking without being outright offensive. 

Here is a breakdown of various topics for persuasive speeches, organized by categories, to inspire you. 

1. Arts & Culture

Art and culture are always hot topics amongst individuals and groups. There are many interesting arguments and stances on both topics, and many people have strong opinions when it comes to the subject matter. 

See below for prompts for persuasive speeches about art and culture: 

• Is graffiti art? 
• Should art classes be mandatory for all students?
• Should we keep reading classic literature that is offensive? 
• Should there be a distinction between ‘high’ and ‘low’ literature?
• Are romcoms and erotica series like Fifty Shades of Grey empowering for women?
• Is reading actually more beneficial than watching TV or playing video games?
• Is there any benefit or relevance to teaching high school students Shakespeare?
• Should video games be considered a high form of entertainment?
• Are biographical movies of deceased musicians and artists ethical?
• Is modern music really worse than older music?
• Should paparazzi be banned and unable to sell their photos?

Topics in arts and culture are always fun to debate and discuss because you have the opportunity to talk about your favorite pieces of media!

2. Economics

Economics is a hotly debated topic. There is no shortage of compelling, engaging arguments involving economics. 

Here are some good persuasive speech ideas on the topic of economics: 

• Is capitalism a functional, ethical economic system? 
• Should everyone, despite their income, be taxed at the same rate?
• Can we introduce another economic system to our society? 
• Should each state, the federal government, or individual companies be responsible for setting a living wage?
• Should minimum wage be doubled?
• Should everyone adapt to the four-day work week?
• Should people who make under a certain amount per year not be taxed at all?
• Should governments encourage and reward people for shopping locally? 
• Should advertisements be banned during TV and media programming aimed at kids?
• Has modern consumerism gone too far?

Economics is a great topic for a persuasive speech because it affects our everyday lives in so many ways. There are tons of research and perspectives to help support your argument. 

3. Education

Many people feel strongly about education and there are many sides and perspectives that come into play: teachers, parents, students, student athletes, and more. 

Here is a list of some engaging topics to write a persuasive speech on:

• Should post-secondary education be free?
• Should taking a year off between high school and college be mandatory?
• Is it fair to take cell phones away from kids in middle/high school while they are in class?
• Should school uniforms be mandatory in all high schools?
• Should cursive writing still be taught in schools?
• Do frats and sororities actually serve their purpose? 
• Should programming and coding be introduced to young students?
• Should school lunches be free?
• Is college/university necessary anymore?
• Does the education system prepare students for adult life?
• Should gyms be mandatory for all students?
• Do schools need to do a better job at teaching students a second language?
• Should schools teach sign language?
• What age should students be taught sex ed?
• Should distant learning be encouraged, or avoided at all costs?

Education is another great topic to write a speech about because it intersects with economics, culture , and politics . These topics will guarantee an engaged audience. This is a popular topic for high school students who are learning about tuition and scholarships at their top colleges! 

4. Environment

Since the release of Al Gore’s “An Inconvenient Truth” and Greta Thunberg’s unapologetic activism, climate change has been at the forefront of many political, economic, and cultural conversations. 

If environmental issues spark your interest, consider writing on one of the topics below:

• Can we ever live in a truly ‘green’ and environmentally friendly society?
• Should water bottles be banned?
• Are businesses responsible for implementing environmentally friendly production and products?
• Should there be a carbon tax?
• Should electric cars be mandatory in the near future?
• Should we switch over to entirely renewable energy?
• Do low-income families have the same duties to be eco-conscious as high-income families do? Should plastic bags and single use plastic be completely banned?
• Should car racing be banned?
• Should fast fashion be banned?

The environment and climate change are becoming, if not already, some of the most pressing issues of our day. 

Ethics may be one of the most difficult topics to write a persuasive speech about because the topics tend to cover sensitive subject matter. However, ethics are also some of the most compelling and complex topics to explore. 

Here are some potential topics for a persuasive speech about ethics:

• Is animal testing ethical?
• Is drinking coffee unethical?
• Are animal shelters that allow euthanization ethical?
• Should more people try to adopt a vegetarian/vegan diet?
• Is the death penalty ethical? 
• Can racism ever truly be eliminated?
• Can the prison system genuinely contribute to the improvement and rehabilitation of individuals?
• Should justice systems and incarceration facilities focus on rehabilitation over punishment? 
• Should cosmetic plastic surgery be covered by insurance?
• Are morals objective or subjective?
• Should zoos and circuses be banned?
• Should fur coats be illegal?
• Are censorship laws ethical?
• Is it ethical to genetically modify an embryo? 
• How should we, and who is responsible, for addressing the homelessness crisis? 
• Should minors who commit violent crimes be charged and tried as adults?

Tackling a persuasive speech on ethics is a challenge, as many of these topics are complex and sensitive. It can also be difficult to wrap up a speech on such huge ethical debates. 

However, these topics also provide some of the most riveting and energizing debates - if you’re up to the challenge, you should definitely try to tackle one of these topics. 

From fitness to food prices to economic privilege, there are tons of debatable topics regarding health. Here are just some of the potential topics you can write a speech on:

• Are individuals solely responsible for their own health?
• Should prescription medications be free?
• Should sugary drinks like pop be taxed at higher rates?
• Should Starbucks be allowed to advertise their high-calories and high sugar drinks?
• Should the government regulate the prices of fruits and vegetables?
• Should fast food restaurants regulate and reduce their portions?
• Should gym memberships be free?
• Should the government change and restructure the work week to reduce stress?
• Should nurses be paid more?
• Should smoking be banned?
• Should insurance companies fully cover rehabilitation stays for health issues like eating disorders?

People have varying opinions and understanding of health, which makes these topics very engaging and interesting to write about.

7. Politics

It goes without saying that almost every political issue is debatable. 

• Do we actually live in a truly democratic society?
• Should there be a minimum wage or a living wage?
• Should the legal voting age be decreased?
• Does the pay gap exist?
• Are younger politicians more effective?
• Should there be stricter gun laws?
• Should Presidents be able to serve more than two terms?
• Should everyone get the day off work to go vote?
• Should political party funding be regulated?
• Should political smear campaigns be banned?
• Is there a political bias in mainstream media?
• Should you date someone with opposing political views? 
• Is the government spending too much on the military sector?

Politics are all about persuading people to take a side, which makes it a strategic topic for delivering a moving persuasive speech. 

Sports is another big topic that people care a lot about. There are sports related matters that are questioned everywhere: sports on TV, the Olympics, college sports and athletics, and athletic sponsorships . 

Below is a list of captivating sports topics for a persuasive speech: 

• Should the pay for professional teams be based on audience viewership? 
• Are professional sports getting too violent? 
• Are athletes overpaid?
• Is cheerleading empowering or exploitative? 
• Should children be allowed to compete in competitive sports?
• Should we continue spending millions of dollars on the Olympic Games?
• Do people put too much importance on high school and college football?
• Should alcohol and tobacco ads be banned during sports?
• Is betting on sports teams ethical?
• Should high school and college athletes be paid?

Sports is a topic that people don’t often think of as controversial. However, your audience is bound to be engaged and contemplating your argument as you present your speech. 

9. Technology

As the world increasingly moves to online spaces, and technology advances faster than ever before, technology is another hot topic that people have a lot of thoughts and opinions on. 

• Should all workplaces offer hybrid/remote work?
• Should we pursue Artificial Intelligence?
• Do we need to put resources into travelling to space?
• Should parents monitor their children’s online activity?
• Is it okay for phones to use facial recognition and fingerprint technology?
• Is technology actually addicting?
• Can we blame technology for increased stress and anxiety?
• Are security cameras and body cameras an invasion of privacy? 
• Should the internet be surveilled or managed?
• Should video game chats be surveilled or even banned?
• Are machines replacing human labor? 
• Should cloning be outlawed/banned?

As technology continues to advance and expand into our personal lives, it is a great topic to write a unique persuasive speech on. 

Having a unique and creative speech topic discussing one of your interests can make it stand out more! Think about extracurriculars you participate in, podcasts you enjoy, or fascinating facts you’ve learned. Don’t be afraid to think outside of the box. 

• What makes a hero?
• Are we headed towards World War 3?
• Did humans really land on the moon?
• Are serial killers born or made?
• Can good and evil be separated neatly?
• Is cancel culture a positive or negative thing?
• Can money buy happiness?
• How to become a millionaire
• How to become more confident
• How to live to be 100
• How to survive an apocalypse
• Do extraterrestrial beings exist?
• Why students should start investing at 16
• The true history of… (event of your choice, such as the Chernobyl disaster, the Black Plague, Salem Witch Trials, etc.)

Exploring these kinds of diverse and intriguing topics will not only capture your audience's attention but will also allow you to share your passions with your peers! 

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

The best persuasive speech topics are topics that are not overdone, and topics that the speaker is genuinely passionate and knowledgeable about. 

Persuasive speech topics should also be a bit controversial (this does not mean offensive) because the topic and speech itself should be thought-provoking. The more people are emotionally invested in the topic, the better. 

For example, while you can try to persuade your audience that strawberry ice cream is better than chocolate ice cream, it’s unlikely that many people have a strong emotional investment in that topic. Without an emotional investment, audiences will be sitting listening to your speech thinking: “so what?” 

On the other hand, a topic like “Should government’s set limits on how many children a family can have in overpopulated countries?” is emotionally charged and truly matters to people. 

FAQs: Persuasive Speech Topics

After reading through all the possible topics you can write a persuasive speech on, you may still have some questions before you get going. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about persuasive speech topics. 

1. What Are Some Easy Persuasive Topics?

Any persuasive topic can be easy to write about if you are passionate about your stance. The more passionate and knowledgeable you are about your topic, the easier it will be to research and write. 

There are also easy persuasive topics that are more lighthearted than controversial, which some people may find easier to debate and write about. Some easy persuasive topics include: 

• Should everyone have a three-day weekend?
• Should every public place have free Wi-Fi?
• Does social media do more harm than good?
• Should kids get paid for getting high grades?
• Do we need more holidays?

These topics are all fun to debate, which makes it easy to write a persuasive speech or essay. Whereas some persuasive topics can be complex and sensitive, the topics listed above are pretty straightforward, which makes them easier to discuss than more complex topics. 

2. What Is a Good Persuasive Speech Topic For School?

A good start to finding a good speech topic for school is looking for a topic that involves something related to school. For example, you can look into talking about school uniforms, class sizes, tuition and scholarships, and school sports, just to name a few. 

Having a speech topic related to school is a good idea for school because your audience (teachers and peers) are directly in that environment as well. This means they will likely be more engaged as the topic, whether they agree or disagree, is relevant to their everyday lives. 

3. What are Three Examples of a Persuasive Speech Topic?

Any of the above topics listed in this article are examples of persuasive speech topics. Three specific examples that have not been listed are:

• Is social media to blame for the rates of depression and anxiety amongst youth?
• Do young adult romance novels encourage harmful and toxic relationships to their target audience?
• Should children under 18 have total control over medical decisions made about their bodies?

These topics are examples of persuasive speech topics because you need to take a clear stance in order to answer the question. The point of a persuasive speech is to convince or persuade the audience that your side of the argument is valid and should be considered, so the topic needs the individual to take a specific stance. 

As briefly touched upon before, your topic needs to interest your audience for a successful persuasive speech. While you should make sure your topic isn’t overdone, you don’t want to go with something too ‘safe’ as that will most likely bore your audience. 

Final Thoughts

Coming up with a topic for a persuasive speech may be the most difficult part of the writing process. 

Read over our list of topics and pick out a few topics that genuinely interest you. From there, do some preliminary research on each topic and see which one has the strongest evidence to support your argument. Then, you’ll be good to start writing your persuasive speech that will amaze your audience!

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April 5, 2024

235+ Ideas for persuasive speech topics

How to choose a great persuasive speech topic, inspiration and ideas, and example presentations for you to get started

Co-founder, CEO

Creating a great persuasive speech starts with picking the right topic. 

Some of these ideas are supposed to be funny, some are “easier” to create a speech around, and all of them offer the ability to take multiple sides or present multiple points of view.

Here are 235 of the best ideas for persuasive speech topics, categorized by topic area.

How to pick a topic for your persuasive speech

To make a great persuasive speech, you should pick a topic that meets the following criteria:

• You’re interested in the subject matter - Life is short! Don’t spend a bunch of time researching something that you don’t want to learn about.
• There are multiple perspectives - If there’s no need to persuade anyone, it’s not going to be a very effective speech.
• It’s relevant - Whether it’s relevant to your friends, classmates, or current events, there’s a reason to bring up this topic.
• You can bring insight - Whether you have a personal experience, unexpected facts, or can debunk some commonly misunderstood beliefs, surprising and educating your audience is one of the best ways to create an effective persuasive speech.

How to write a persuasive speech

The first step to writing your persuasive speech is to do a bit of research to understand the different viewpoints on the topic, form your personal opinion based on the facts, and then create a rough outline of your speech.

Depending on how long your presentation is , you will probably want to have 2 or 3 key points as well as supporting information about each of them.

Once you have the key points written out, you can write your full speech and create an accompanying presentation, if needed.

Create a first draft of your presentation with Plus AI

If you want to get a jump start on a first draft of the speech or presentation, you can also use a tool like Plus AI to quickly create a starting point for you, and edit it from there.

Most popular persuasive speech ideas

Here are some of the most popular ideas for persuasive speeches, based on topics we have seen in the past:

• Is student debt forgiveness a good idea?
• Should students be allowed to use AI ?
• Would universal basic income improve the day-to-day life of everyone?
• Should AI systems always be able to explain their decisions ?
• Are politicians getting too old to be effective?
• Is social media bad for you?
• Can money buy happiness ?
• Should religion be taught in schools?

Here’s an example presentation on whether students should be allowed to use AI .

Easy persuasive speech ideas

Here are some topics that should be easier persuasive speech ideas for students because you may already have a point of view or personal experiences that could enhance the content of your presentation.

• Should students be allowed to use AI tools?
• Should you exercise every day?
• Should we reduce the use of single-use plastics?
• Should voting be mandatory?
• Should schools teach kids a foreign language?
• Should schools teach financial management and other practical skills?
• Are phones and social media affecting how kids grow up?
• Should the government invest more money in space exploration?

Persuasive speech ideas about society

Here are some ideas for speeches about society and how we live where it could be interesting to share different points of view.

• Are romantic movies good for feminism? 
• Would universal basic income improve the day-to-day life of most people?
• How can education reduce social inequality?
• Is there still a stigma when people have mental health issues?
• Do people enjoy the commercialization of holidays?
• How should countries trade off the need for safety vs. privacy?
• How has reality TV changed dating?
• Why is religion becoming less important in modern society?
• Are communities stronger in urban areas or rural areas?
• Should schools encourage students to be politically active?
• Are we headed towards World War 3
• Is cancel culture a bad thing?

Persuasive speech ideas about AI

AI is a hot topic these days, and people have a lot of different opinions on AI. Here are some ideas that can help you find the perfect topic for a persuasive speech about AI.

• Should intelligent AIs have "human rights"?
• Who should be at fault if an AI system makes a bad decision?
• Will AI destroy jobs or lead to new forms of work for people?
• Who is the creator of an AI-generated artwork / book / song?
• Does AI increase inequality?
• How should people handle misinformation in the age of AI?
• Should AI systems always be able to explain their decisions?
• Will AI change the way we interact with other people in social situations?
• Should AI developers be reponsible for making AI behave ethically?
• Should there be a global regulatory framework for AI? 
• If AI performs better than human doctors, should it be allowed to make medical decisions?

Persuasive speech ideas about the environment

Given the media’s polarized coverage of climate change (see what I did there 😄), there are no shortage of opinions on the environment. Here are some interesting speech ideas on the environment.

• Should cities ban items like plastic bags and plastic straws?
• How should corporations be held responsible for climate change?
• Why is investing in renewable energy important?
• Should all endangered species be protected?
• Should farmers be forced to adopt water conservation policies?
• Are electric vehicles a failure?
• Should "fast fashion" be regulated in order to protect the environment?
• How can overfishing be prevented?
• Is nuclear energy a good solution or a threat?
• Is ecotourism good for local economies and ecosystems?
• Who should decide what makes a building "green"?
• Is "organic" a meaningless word today?
• Can technology solve our environmental problems?
• Should we limit the use of pesticides and chemicals in agriculture?
• Should countries limit the import and export of water?

Persuasive speech ideas about arts and culture

If you’re looking to do a persuasive speech on art or culture, there are certainly a lot of different opinions and interesting media assets you could share with your audience.

Here’s an example slide deck created by Plus AI on whether NFTs should be considered “art.”

• Should NFTs like Bored Apes be considered art?
• Has the quality of music gotten worse over time? 
• Should we keep reading literature that is offensive?
• Should people study video games as a form of art?
• Should paparazzi be allowed to invade celebrities' privacy?
• Should the government fund more arts and culture programs?
• When should art be censored?
• When does cultural exchange become cultural appropriation?
• Is AI-generated art really art?
• Is graffiti on public buildings art or vandalism?

Persuasive speech ideas about ethics

Ethics and moral dilemmas are a classic set of topics for persuasive speeches. Here are some of the traditional questions that often come up in this category as well as some newer ones based on the latest trends and news.

• Is political lobbying moral and ethical? 
• Is testing products on animals unethical?
• Should people be allowed to sell their kidneys?
• Should capital punishment exist as a form of justice?
• Should people have the right to euthanasia? 
• Is selecting for or against certain traits in embryos genetic engineering?
• Should governments be allowed to use torture in the name of national security?
• How should AI and robotic systems be used in warfare?
• What moral obligations do humans have towards animals and pets?
• What types of performance-enhancing treatments are ethical in sports?
• How should self-driving cars approach situations like the "trolley problem"?
• Are parents allowed to make decisions in the best interest of their children?
• Should prostitution be legal?

Persuasive speech ideas about health

People generally have a lot of opinions about their bodies and how to take care of them. Many debates come from other people having different opinions. Here are some persuasive speech ideas about healthcare and medicine.

• What should be taught in health education in schools? 
• Should we legalize more drugs and other illicit substances?
• Does the government have the right to declare vaccines mandatory?
• Does social media have positive impacts on mental health? 
• Would universal healthcare be a positive impact on our country?
• Who should be held responsible for the opioid crisis?
• Should the government discourage people from drinking alcohol?
• Are there benefits to cannabis use? 
• Should clinical trials use placebos?
• What is the best way to encourage people to exercise more? 
• Should pharmaceutical companies make drugs cheaper?
• How should organ transplants be allocated?
• Is alternative medicine legitimate?
• Is it ethical to develop life extension technologies?

Persuasive speech ideas about politics

Could there be a topic that needs more persuasive dialogue than politics? Here are some interesting speech ideas on the topics of politics and government.

We used Plus AI to generate this presentation on whether politicians are getting too old to be effective.

• Should we institute a mandatory military service or civil service program?
• Is there too much spending on the miltary?
• Should there always be term limits on elected officials? 
• How should we control the influence of money in politics?
• Should political campaigns be funded by the state?
• Do independent political candidates improve elections?
• How should we change our national immigration policies?
• How should public officials be held accountable for their actions?
• Should social media platforms be allowed to take sides in politics?
• Should our country be more focused on self-sufficiency or globalization?
• Are state-sponsored assassinations acceptable for national security?
• Should prisoners have the right to vote?

Persuasive speech ideas about sports

It might be hard to think about a fun topic like sports in the context of making a speech, but here are a few ideas on topics that can be both academic and relate to your passion in sports.

• Is there too much importance placed on football?
• Is betting in sports ethical? 
• Are athletes paid too much?
• Should athletes be allowed to take performance-enhancing drugs?
• Should physical education be a compulsory subject in school?
• Should female athletes be paid the same as male athletes?
• Do replays and other technologies enhance sports or take away from the experience?
• How important is racial representation in sports?
• Are animal sports like horse racing or bullfighting ethical?
• Are youth sports too commercialized?
• Should high school and college athletes be compensated?
• Should transgender athletes compete in gender-specific competitions?
• Is the celebrity culture of sports stars detrimental to the sport?

Persuasive speech ideas about technology

Technology is becoming one of the most important topics in the stock market, in politics, and in our everyday lives. Here are some ideas on interesting topics to present on in tech.

• Will cryptocurrency lead to stronger financial systems? 
• Should private companies be allowed to use facial recognition technology?
• Will automation hurt the economy and workforce?
• Should we place limits on the development of AI technology?
• Who should pay for space exploration?
• Should AI deepfake technology be banned?
• Can an AI be sentient?
• Should social media companies be allowed to collect so much user data?
• Is it ethical for scientists to develop gene editing technologies?
• Should AI companies be allowed to impersonate well-known public figures?
• How should tech companies handle censorship and content moderation?
• Is it good to pursue technology-driven solutions to immortality? 
• Has technology improved the quality of the average person's life over the last 10 years?
• Is lab-grown meat the future of food? 
• Should cloning be illegal?

Persuasive speech ideas about happiness

If you are going to be doing some research for this persuasive speech, you might as well learn something useful - like how to be happy! Here are some ideas on speeches about happiness:

• Can money buy happiness?
• Is the journey or the destination more important in being happy?
• What are the best ways to pursue happiness?
• Are older people happier?
• Is happiness a better measure of a country's success than economic output?
• Would teaching children mindfulness and mediation make them happier?
• Is volunteering one of the best ways to be happy?
• Does more choice lead to better decisions?
• Would getting rid of technology make people happier?

Persuasive speech ideas about work

Workaholics rejoice! If you want to spend some quality time researching and talking about work, here are some ideas.

• Is work life balance real? 
• Should companies offer unpaid internships?
• Do gig economy companies exploit their workers?
• Should companies be allowed to ask their employees to work after hours?
• Should companies monitor their employees' social media?
• Is the glass ceiling real or outdated?
• Is at-will employment a good thing for the economy?
• Are mandatory retirement ages discriminatory?
• Is remote work temporary or here to stay? 
• Should companies be allowed to use IQ tests and personality tests in hiring?
• Is outsourcing to lower cost locations ethical?
• Should employees be compensated purely on performance?
• Are DEI programs successful?
• Is it ethical for CEOs to get paid 1,000x more than employees?
• Are unions a good thing for workers?
• Should companies be responsible for employees' mental health?
• Would companies be more efficient with a four day workday?

Persuasive speech ideas about religion

Is it okay to talk about religion in a persuasive speech? Depends on the context, but sure! These are all about sharing your opinions and helping other people to understand your views.

Want to get a head start on your presentation? Here’s an example slide deck of whether churches should be classified as non-profits.

• Should churches be classified as non-profit organizations?
• Should religion play a role in the government?
• Is it moral to attempt to convert others to your religious beliefs?
• Can science and religion coexist?
• What happens if religious beliefs conflict with laws?
• How should religions promote interfaith dialogue?
• How should people deal with religious extremism?
• Is the commercialization of religious holidays bad?
• Should religious symbols be displayed in public spaces?
• Were any religious wars like the crusades morally justified?
• Should governments fund religious schools?
• Should religious groups be exempt from medical treatments or military service?

Persuasive speech ideas about animals

Here are some speech ideas if you want to talk about animals and find cute pictures of pets.

• Should animals be used in research instead of humans? 
• Is it ethical to use animals in entertainment and agriculture? 
• Is factory farming an unethical way to raise animals?
• Should pet ownership be regulated?
• Is it okay to hunt animals for sport? for subsistence?
• How should people manage invasive species? 
• Should people be allowed to keep exotic animals as pets?
• Is it moral to breed animals in captivity? If the animals are endangered?
• Should we respect cultural practices that involve the killing of animals?
• Are animals intelligent or self-aware?
• Should puppy mills be banned?

Persuasive speech ideas about mental health

Mental health is a serious topic, and if you want to do a speech on mental health, here are some idea starters.

• How should we destigmatize mental illness?
• Should we teach kids about mental health from an early age?
• How should schools support students dealing with mental health issues?
• Should employers give employees mental health days?
• Why is there a crisis in loneliness and mental health?
• Do conservatives have better mental health than liberals?
• Could we solve homelessness and crime by focusing on mental health?
• Should the government fund more mental health research?
• Is technology a major driver of the decrease in mental health?
• How can mental health be better integrated into primary care?

Funny persuasive speech ideas

If you’re looking for funny topics for a speech, you’re probably a lot more funny than the guy who is writing this blog post, but here are some ideas we came up with.

• What is the best fast food chain?
• What is the best Netflix reality show?
• Are McFlurrys better than Blizzards?
• Does every adult need a nap time? 
• Are cats better than dogs?
• Should you procrastinate?
• Should teenagers run the government?
• Is tea better than coffee?
• Are night owls more intelligent?
• Is chocolate the best food group? 
• Does toilet paper go over or under the roll?
• Should you shower at morning or at night?
• Should you take your shoes off in the house? 
• Is there evidence that the earth is flat?
• Should we get rid of Daylight Savings Time?
• Should dessert be the first course of every meal?

If you’re worried about coming up with an original idea for your persuasive speech, hopefully this list gives you some ideas and inspiration. 

If you’re done and ready to get started, check out Plus AI for Google Slides and Docs as a way to create a first draft of your speech and slide deck!

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Persuasive Speech Topics: The Best 150 Ideas

Plus, a step-by-step guide for writing and delivering your speech.

Persuasive speech topics can inspire an audience and influence change in your community, town, or city. Whether you are giving a presentation at a large conference or converting a college essay into a speech to be given at your high school's auditorium, delivering a persuasive speech is not an easy task. We are here to guide you through this difficult process and provide you with 150 persuasive speech topics that can help you prepare your own inspirational presentation.

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Article Contents 13 min read

The art of persuasion.

The art of oratory is one of the oldest and most compelling persuasion tactics in human history. The power of speech has been used for centuries by men and women to negotiate peace, start revolutions, and inspire generations. At the source of change, we often witness a great speaker or speech that affected people’s worldviews. King Solomon, Socrates, Cicero, Elizabeth I, Napoleon, Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King, were all powerful speakers who changed the course of human history.  

Luckily, not every persuasive speech happens on such a grand scale. You do not have to become Napoleon to change the lives of people who hear what you have to say. You might have experienced this yourself – perhaps you have had a teacher who instilled in you a great passion for the study of physics during his lectures? Or you happened to attend a political, grassroots gathering where you heard a speech that changed your attitude towards homelessness or poverty. Or maybe your classmate's presentation revealed something about a novel you were reading in class that made you reflect on your own life and the people in it.

The power of a speech lies in your conviction and delivery of the topic you choose to discuss. A persuasive speech topic can be anything you are passionate about. Yes, it is true; whether you want to discuss the repercussions of the Cuban Revolution or analyze the power of K-pop in popular culture, it is up to you to enthrall the audience with your topic. The key to any successful speech is your confidence and enthusiasm. So, let’s start by examining what makes a speech persuasive.

To deliver a speech takes a lot of guts – not everybody is comfortable with public speaking. But to deliver a good speech takes conviction. Think of it like this: you must believe in the importance of your speech topic to discuss it. This must be something you care about and believe in; otherwise, your topic must be something that drives your curiosity, and you believe that it must be examined further.

Conviction stirs your desire to share this topic with others – you are convinced that other people will similarly find this topic fascinating! Whether it is the importance of recycling or bike lanes, the conviction is what will become the backbone of a successful and persuasive topic choice, as well as drive your desire to give a speech in the first place.

With conviction comes passion. These two elements of a successful speech are intimately intertwined. If you believe in the importance of something, you will be passionate about sharing it with the public.

If we look at some of the most famous speeches in human history, you will notice that conviction and passion are the driving force that makes these speeches legendary. Whether it's Cicero's defense of the Republic in the Roman Senate or Martin Luther King's speech in the defense of civil rights almost two millennia later, both these speakers believed in the importance of their convictions and were passionate about sharing their beliefs. In these cases, even despite the threats of death.

Unbiased Expertise

Conviction and passion should also drive your need to know everything there is to know about your topic. To give a persuasive speech, you must not only show confidence and excitement but demonstrate that you are an expert in the topic of your choice. Granted, if you are a high school student or an undergraduate who's been assigned to deliver a speech in less than 2 weeks, you are not going to become a world-renowned expert in your subject matter. However, as I pointed out, your speech topic should be something you are already passionate about, so you must have done some research and have some knowledge of your topic.

A persuasive speech should be based on facts. It should deliver arguments and counterarguments to show many sides of the issue you choose to discuss. For example, if you choose to discuss the importance of bike lanes, you can present several arguments in support of creating more bike lanes in your town or city, such as safety, decrease in traffic, environmental benefits, etc. However, make sure to include arguments that also show the other side of the issue, such as having to close down several major streets in your city to reconstruct the roads to fit in the new bike lanes and the side-effects of construction for businesses. Presenting both sides of the issue will show your comprehensive knowledge of the topic and demonstrate your professionalism.

Using the bike lanes topic as an example, I want to emphasize that showing unbiased research and knowledge of your topic can win the audience’s favor. You can, and should, still have your own opinion on the matter and defend your conviction in the speech but presenting the audience with both sides of the story is a tactic that will make them trust you.

Additionally, knowing both sides of the coin shows that you have come to your conviction after long and thorough research. You are not just presenting an uneducated opinion.

Taking care of the substance of your speech is the first step. While learning how to properly deliver your speech may seem less important, even the most well-researched and factually based speech will seem weak if the orator does not engage the public.

Though they certainly help your confidence, conviction and passion do not always result in strong delivery. This is understandable since public speaking is not everyone’s forte. While you may be animated and absorbing when you speak of your topic with friends, gripping an audience full of strangers is different.

There are three potential goals of any persuasive speech:

To familiarize your audience with a topic they have never considered before and inspire them to research it on their own. "}]" code="timeline1">

When you think about it, these objectives are pretty ambitious. Delivery plays a huge part in achieving these goals. It will be hard to move your audience to pursue any of these goals without clear articulation, professionalism, and charisma.

Strong delivery can be developed. Yes, there are those to whom oratory skills come more naturally, but this is rather an exception than the rule. Many successful orators were terrified of public speaking but worked hard to overcome their fears. A good example of this is King George VI of England. Before taking the throne in 1936, he was already an infamously bad speaker. The King trained to keep his speech impediment and nerves at bay once he was crowned and delivered one of the most inspiring speeches against Adolf Hitler and the Third Reich at the beginning of World War II.

Now that you know what makes a speech topic persuasive, let's go over a step-by-step formula that will help you choose the right topic for you. 

• Brainstorm where your convictions lie and what you are passionate about. You must reflect on what interests, hobbies, news, events, individuals, and activities of yours could be developed into a persuasive, strong narrative. 
• Narrow these down to 2 or 3 topics that are particularly important or riveting to you. 
• Now comes the practical side of the brainstorming process: take a moment to think whether preparing a comprehensive and compelling speech on this topic is feasible in the amount of time you have available. Consider the following questions: Are the topics of your choice well researched by you? Do you know these topics well? If you are not well-versed in the topic of your choice, do you have enough time to do research to present a comprehensive and complete narrative? Do you have enough time to form a well-developed stance about this topic? A thesis? Will you be able to cover several sides of this topic in the amount of time you have available?
• If you have answered “No” to these questions regarding each of the topics you had in mind, you must go back to the drawing board. 
• If you have come up with a topic that results in a positive response to all the questions mentioned in step 3, you might have found the winner.
• Start by developing a thesis, i.e., the main message of your speech. Without a thesis, you will not have a strong speech. 
• Develop arguments that endorse your thesis and support them with facts. Remember, a strong speech must be based on facts, rather than opinions and unsubstantiated statements.
• Research counterarguments to your thesis. While you may not personally support these, you must present a well-rounded picture of the issue you are discussing. 
• You can finish off your speech by responding to the counterarguments in a way that reinforces your thesis. Don't forget to re-emphasize your main message in the closing paragraphs of your speech.

Know your audience

It is always a good idea to know who your audience is. Whether you are giving a speech in your high school, or traveling to attend an undergraduate conference, reflect on who will be listening to your speech. Before you sit down to write it, consider whether you can give yourself the freedom to use technical language, jargon, or make inside jokes on the matter. In general, I would advise you to avoid overly technical or niche language. It is never a good tactic for making a persuasive speech – this might alienate a large part of your audience.

However, if you are delivering a speech to a like-minded audience, you may use "industry lingo". For example, if you are delivering a speech at a video game convention, it is likely that many, if not most, attendees will be familiar with the terms and vocabulary you use. You will be able to strengthen your speech by using language that unites you with your audience. In this case, you are encouraged to engage the public by making inside jokes, using niche terminology, and creating a relatable experience with your speech.

Knowing your audience will allow you to develop a language for your speech. It will also allow you to gauge how deep you can delve into the topic of your choice. For example, if you are a young physics aficionado who is giving a lecture on black holes to your sophomore classmates, you might want to consider the fact that many of them have never studied physics in depth. This may help you shape your speech into something accessible and interesting for others.

If you are unsure about who your audience might be, try researching it. It is always good practice to know whom you will be addressing. Not only will it help you prepare the speech, but it will also ease your anxiety about the day of your speech delivery.

Hook the audience

Your opening sentences can hook the audience and guarantee their attention. While it will be the substance of your speech that keeps them listening to you, the opening must be captivating for your speech to have a chance for success.

So, what do I mean by hooking the audience with your opening? For example, you can state a shocking statistic about your topic. It will be especially impactful if it is related to your audience’s experiences, geographical area, community, or hot-topic issue. Here’s an example for an opening sentence for a speech about the importance of bike lanes:

“Last year, the city of Toronto recorded 715 serious accidents involving cyclists, with over 5% of these accidents resulting in a fatality."

Now, if I was living in Toronto, I would be surprised to hear such information; especially, if I have never thought about this before. I am saddened by this statistic and would like to learn how we can help prevent these accidents.

Let’s examine another opening. This time, we will consider a speech topic involving a historical event. For example, if you are captivated by the mystery of Princess Anastasia of the Russian royal family, the House of Romanov, you might start your speech thusly:

“The question of whether the Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna Romanova survived the brutal execution of her entire family by the Bolsheviks is one of the greatest mysteries of the 20th century.”

This sentence performs several tasks:

The opening sentence is your chance to establish yourself as the expert! You will seem like the authority on this topic, especially if you can pronounce the Princess's name without mistakes. "}]" code="timeline2">

Coming up with a strong opening sentence is not easy, but very worthwhile for delivering a persuasive speech. If you are having trouble finding the right opening sentence, you do not need to wait to start writing your speech. If you are stuck, move on to the main body of your speech and return to creating a captivating opening later.

To be persuasive, your speech must have a thesis. A thesis is the main argument you are trying to convince your audience of, or simply put, the purpose of you giving the speech. Without a thesis, your speech will be aimless, chaotic, and most likely, unengaging.

And while you can write your introduction after the main body of your speech is ready, you cannot write your speech without a thesis. It will be the landmark, the leading light, of your speech. Everything you say and every fact and argument you include in your essay must support your thesis. Certainly, you will be able to bring up alternative points of view later in the speech, but as we already discussed, your objective is to persuade the audience that your thesis is the correct one.

Let’s return to our bike lanes example. If you are a proponent of bike lanes, your thesis should be more than “Bike lanes are good”. While this can be considered a thesis, it is pretty thin. Instead, find a way to make your thesis compelling, include a supporting statistic, or a benefit of having bike lanes. For example: 

“Having more bike lanes in our city will not only reduce traffic by X% but also allow our city to be at the forefront of the environmentally friendly initiatives happening all over our country.” 

This thesis is clear and introduces the audience to some of the main points of the speech. The listeners get a concise prelude to what the speech is about and what it stands for.

Research and Arguments

Research is always conducted before you sit down to write. While you may have some general knowledge about your topic, remember that you are trying to be as persuasive as you possibly can be. This means that you need the latest statistics, the most up-to-date information, and the strongest support from experts in the field. 

Tip: keep in mind your thesis as you are writing. All your arguments and facts must be in support of the main purpose of your essay. While you should present alternative points of view in your speech to make it well-rounded and unbiased, a strong speech must contain arguments that make it clear that your thesis is the correct one.

Concluding your speech has a twofold purpose. In addition to persuading the audience of your thesis, you must complete your narrative. Give the audience some closure about the topic. On the other hand, you must leave them even more interested in learning about your research. In other words, they must be compelled to explore on their own.

Tip: your conclusion cannot be a dry summary of your thesis and arguments. While you must restate your thesis in the conclusion, you are strongly encouraged to incite an emotional response from your audience. For example:

“More bike lanes will alleviate the heavy traffic and relieve our city from car fumes and soot. It is our responsibility to start making our city more eco-friendly. These small steps will inspire even more initiatives across our hometown and lead to a brighter, greener, future."

In this example, the audience is not only reminded of the main purpose of the speech but is also encouraged to think of other green initiatives that can help their town. The author does a good job of invoking responsibility for the future to encourage their audience to act. 

Want to learn how to choose persuasive speech topics? Check out our infographic:

Now, let’s go over 150 persuasive speech topics that can inspire your own essay and presentation! Note that these are questions that should help you form ideas, arguments, and most importantly, theses. Rather than giving you the thesis upfront, we are encouraging you to come up with your own opinion and answers to these questions.

Your speech should be between 15 to 20 minutes long. Anything longer may lose your audience's attention. If applicable, don't forget to factor in some time after your presentation for questions from the audience.

The best way to approach the choice of topic is to reflect on your convictions and passions. If you are truly interested in a topic, your excitement will be felt by the audience.

Of course, you must be interested in your topic, first and foremost. Secondly, your speech must demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that will allow the audience to believe that you know what you are talking about. Thirdly, your delivery will have a great effect on whether you succeed in persuading the audience. Even a well-researched speech will suffer from poor delivery.

Firstly, only practice can really help you improve. Once you have written your speech, read it over several times. Do not memorize it, but rather, remember the structure, the flow of your arguments, your main points. Then start practicing pronouncing your entire speech in front of the mirror. Do this until you are quite confident with the content of the essay. Then, you can start practicing with family members, your friends, and classmates. Ask for their feedback: can they hear you well? Are you being articulate? Does your speech have a logical flow? Did they understand your thesis? Their feedback can help you modify not only your content, but also your presentation.

Your speech should take the form of an academic essay: introduction, main body, and conclusion.

Your speech must have a thesis, otherwise it will be meandering and pointless. A thesis will guide you and keep your essay/presentation well-structured. A thesis is what you will be arguing for (or against, if it's a negatively stated thesis) throughout your speech. And while you can include some alternative points of view in your speech, your thesis will inform every argument you make in the speech.

Typically, you should avoid using overly technical language. Even if you are presenting at a professional conference in front of peers, there is a chance that some of your audience will be unfamiliar with the professional terminology. To be inclusive, you should avoid niche language.

To be frank, there is no such thing. You can make a great speech on any topic of your choosing! Your research, your delivery, and your passion will determine whether your speech is successful.

Acknowledging opposing views and presence of debate will demonstrate your thorough knowledge of the topic. Additionally, you will demonstrate that you came to your conclusion/thesis after researching the topic, rather than simply forming an uneducated opinion.

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How to win over hearts and minds: Persuasive speech topics and tactics

Crafting a persuasive speech can be a daunting task, especially when you’re searching for that perfect topic to ignite passion in both yourself and your audience. Our blog is here to guide you through the process with a carefully curated selection of persuasive speech topics designed specifically for students who are eager to make a difference or practice their persuasion skills. Mastering the art of persuasion can elevate your communication skills to new heights and allow you to drive change and influence opinions for the better. 

What makes persuasive speech effective?

How to start building a persuasive speech, authenticity is key, research and evidence , matching your audience , controversy sells, 40 persuasive speech topics to get you started .

Persuasive speech is not just about speaking or aimlessly arguing a point; it’s about swaying opinions, inspiring action, and leaving a lasting impact. What makes a persuasive speech truly effective? It’s a combination of factors, beginning with a crystal-clear purpose. Before you even begin crafting your message, you must define your objective—whether it’s to change minds, prompt action, or ignite passion. The next key step is understanding who you’re speaking to. Tailoring your message to resonate with their values, concerns, and beliefs increases the likelihood of your argument landing with impact. But it’s not just about what you say; it’s also about how you say it. Compelling content is the cornerstone of any persuasive speech. Finally, It’s the facts, statistics, anecdotes, and emotional appeals that support your argument and captivate your audience.

When delving into the realm of persuasive speech topics, the options are as diverse as they are vast. Consider your audience and the overarching message you aim to convey. Your topic should align with the interests, values, and concerns of your listeners, ensuring maximum impact. 

Take a moment to brainstorm ideas that you’re passionate about, topics that you’d be willing to argue vehemently for, even in a room of skeptics. Most importantly, don’t forget to factor in your own personality and beliefs when crafting your argument. Authenticity is key; choose topics that resonate with you personally, as this genuine connection will enhance your persuasiveness and credibility. After all, if your argument doesn’t feel authentic to you, how can you expect to convince others of its validity? So, as you embark on your quest for the perfect persuasive speech topic, keep these considerations in mind, and let your passion and authenticity shine through in your argumentation.

Authenticity can take a speech from merely compelling to truly unforgettable. When you speak from the heart, your sincerity shines through, captivating your audience and forging a genuine connection. Authenticity begins with choosing a topic that resonates with you on a personal level, a subject that ignites a fire within you and compels you to speak out. Whether it’s a cause you’ve championed for years or a newfound passion that stirs your soul, authenticity means speaking your truth with unwavering conviction.

Passion, on the other hand, is the fuel that drives your persuasive efforts. It’s the energy that propels you forward, infusing your words with power and vitality. When you’re passionate about your topic, your enthusiasm is contagious, drawing your audience in and inspiring them to share in your fervor. 

It’s not only about what you say, but also how you say it. Your body language, tone of voice, and facial expressions all communicate your sincerity and passion. Maintain eye contact with your audience, use gestures to emphasize key points, and let your voice reflect the depth of your emotions. When your delivery aligns with the authenticity and passion of your message, your persuasive power knows no bounds.

Research and evidence are the bedrock upon which persuasive speeches are built. In the realm of persuasion, facts speak louder than words, and compelling evidence lends credibility to your arguments. Before stepping onto the stage, it’s essential to conduct thorough research on your chosen topic, delving deep into the facts, statistics, and expert opinions that support your position. By arming yourself with a wealth of evidence, you not only strengthen your argument but also demonstrate to your audience that your stance is grounded in objective reality and makes you credible.

But not all evidence is created equal. When selecting evidence for your persuasive speech, it’s crucial to prioritize quality over quantity. Focus on finding a few key points that support your argument, and use real-life stories to bring your evidence to life and make it relatable to your listeners. 

Tailoring your persuasive speech to match the educational level of your audience is a critical aspect of effective communication. If your audience is more educated, take the time to familiarize yourself with the terminology, history, and nuances of your topic. Dive deep into the subject, gathering insights and information that will bolster your argument and command respect from your audience. 

Conversely, if your audience has a lower level of education, it’s essential to simplify your argument without oversimplifying or patronizing. Break down complex concepts into bite-sized pieces, using clear and straightforward language that everyone can understand. Imagine you’re explaining the topic to a friend or family member, focusing on clarity and accessibility. Remember, if you can’t explain it simply, you may need to revisit your own understanding of the topic.

Controversy is often the hallmark of persuasive speech topics, as it’s where the most pressing issues and passionate debates reside. While it may be tempting to shy away from controversial topics for fear of backlash or discomfort, addressing them head-on can lead to powerful and impactful speeches.

Historically, many influential speeches have addressed controversial topics with courage and conviction. One notable example is Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech delivered during the Civil Rights Movement in 1963. In this iconic address, King fearlessly confronted the racial injustices of his time, calling for equality, unity, and social justice. Despite facing opposition and resistance, King’s speech resonated deeply with millions of people, galvanizing support for the civil rights cause and paving the way for significant legislative changes.

When tackling controversial topics, it’s essential to approach them with sensitivity, empathy, and a commitment to fostering constructive dialogue. Rather than avoiding difficult conversations, embrace them as opportunities to educate, challenge assumptions, and inspire change. By shining a light on contentious issues, you can spark meaningful discussions, raise awareness, and advocate for progress.

Below, we present a selection of persuasive speech topics to kick-start your brainstorming process. It’s important to note that this list isn’t exhaustive, but rather a starting point to help you gather your thoughts. Remember to prioritize authenticity and passion when choosing your topic, select something that truly resonates with you. Your genuine connection to the topic will enhance your persuasiveness and make your speech more compelling.

• Should college athletes be paid?
• Can money buy happiness? 
• Should the voting age be lowered to 16?
• Should there be universal healthcare?
• Is animal testing ethically justifiable?
• Do we need stricter gun control laws?
• What are the implications of artificial intelligence on employment?
• Why should we support LGBTQ+ rights and equality?
• Has technology impacted human relationships for better or worse?
• Should public schools have uniforms?
• Should we increase the minimum wage?
• Would removing tenure and job-protection from professors improve or reduce the quality of higher education?
• Should offensive and inappropriate language be removed from classic literature?
• Should there be a mandatory retirement age?
• Would three-day weekends increase work productivity?
• Is capitalism a harmful or beneficial economic system?
• Are charter schools hurting or helping low-income communities?
• Is homeschooling beneficial or harmful to children?
• Should we switch to the metric system?
• What is the most important book every high school student in America should read?
• Should fuel-run vehicles be banned?
• Should we ban all genetically modified foods?
• Are private, for-profit prisons a threat to prisoners’ rights?
• Should prisoners have the right to vote?
• Should everyone receive free internet?
• Should the government regulate the use of personal drones?
• Is mass surveillance ethical? Does its threat to civil liberties outweigh its benefits?
• Are cell phone bans in the classroom effective for improving student learning?
• Is it ethical for companies to use unpaid internships as a source of labor?
• Does the gig economy benefit or harm workers?
• Should we legalize euthanasia?
• Is it ethical to use animals for medical research?
• Is it ethical to allow access to experimental treatments for terminally ill patients?
• Should we allow parents to choose their children’s physical attributes through genetic engineering?
• Should we require parents to vaccinate their children?
• Should social media platforms ban political ads?
• Should school districts offer bilingual education programs for non-native speakers?
• Does affirmative action help or hinder minority groups in the workplace?
• Should institutions that profited from slavery provide reparations?
• Should social media companies enact a minimum user age restriction?

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454 Persuasive Speech Topics: Easy, Fun, & Controversial Ideas for Students

Every day, we create and consume persuasive messages. For example, when we argue about what movie to watch or where to go on the weekend. But how often do we pause to consider how we form our arguments or perceive the ones we hear from others? Public speaking on persuasive topics provides us the chance to do so.

Persuasive speeches do not inform the audience on the issue but rather convince them to take action or change their attitudes. In this article, we’ll discuss the structure of the persuasive speech. You’ll also find many compelling topics for public speaking that can come in handy and motivate the audience to change!

🔝 Top 10 Persuasive Speech Topics in 2024

✍️ persuasive speech outline, 😊 easy persuasive speech topics.

• 🎒 Speech Topics for High School
• 🎓 Speech Topics for College

⭐ Good Persuasive Speech Topics

💊 medical persuasive speech topics.

• 🍃 Environmental Speech Topics

⚖️ Ethical Persuasive Speech Topics

➡️ problem solution persuasive speech topics, 😜 funny persuasive speech topics, 🤔 controversial persuasive speech topics, 📝 persuasive essay topics, ❓ persuasive speech faq, 🔗 references.

• Why should society accept the AI revolution?
• Free education should be accessible to everyone.
• Social media impacts social behavior.
• Sports should be a part of children’s life.
• The death penalty should be canceled.
• Fashion and style reveal the inner world of the person.
• Every country should have open borders.
• Teenagers are addicted to Instagram and Snapchat.
• Solo travel is the best method to explore oneself.
• Should teachers teach kids in middle school about sex?

Delivering persuasive speeches is not that easy. It usually requires thorough preparation and thoughtful structuring to convey your message clearly and motivate the audience to make a move. We have prepared a detailed outline to help you create an effective persuasive speech. Check out the table below to learn its key components!

• Money cannot buy love and loyalty.
• Higher education should be free for everyone .
• Online communication is better than offline.
• Students should not wear the uniform .
• Use of cell phones while driving should be banned .
• Youngsters should respect their elders.
• Why should lying be banned?
• Gay marriage should not be legal .
• Selfies in tourist locations should be taxed.
• iOS is better in use than Android .
• Should the federal government legalize the use of marijuana ?
• Gender should not matter in the sports industry .
• Why should people colonize Mars ?
• Why should same-sex marriage be a norm ?
• People should visit dentists several times per year.
• Educational institutions should promote inclusivity .
• Should societies impose monogamy ?
• Adventures are better than routine life.
• Memes are a quick way to brighten up the mood.
• Why humans should not visit Mars .
• Offensive jokes should be forbidden.
• Nightclubbing is a waste of time.
• Tattoos should be considered fine art .
• Why should Halloween as the event be canceled?
• A good sense of humor helps make new acquaintances.
• Why celebrities should avoid political topics .
• Why does time pass faster on vacation?
• Life exists after death.
• Why celebrities should be apositive role model .
• Vaping should be banned in public places.

🎒 Persuasive Speech Topics for High School

• Dating a coworker should be illegal.
• Should parents spank their children ?
• Jealousy destroys all types of relationships.
• Procrastination plays a vital role in the working process.
• Should we restrict the Internet usage by children ?
• Why shouldn’t parents force their kids to go to church?
• Small businesses should be protected by law.
• Should US public schools have a longer year ?
• Why are online bloggers beneficial to society?
• Owning a business leads people to feel lonely and isolated.
• Adult children should support elderly parents .
• Bitcoin should be used as legal currency.
• Technology doesn’t make us lazy.
• Why you should not have grades in school .
• Why should the death penalty still be used as a punishment?
• People should buy only electric vehicles .
• Cigarette manufacturers should be prohibited .
• Kids under the age of 13 should have an 8 PM curfew .
• Police brutality against black people should be punished.
• Censorship issue: books should never be banned .
• People should have hobbies to be satisfied with life.
• Having a role model is essential for constant self-improvement.
• Why should marriage be based on love and not arranged ?
• Why is creativity crucial in the SMM industry ?
• The payment for commonalities should be decreased.
• Why should evolution be taught in schools ?
• Planning prevents procrastination.
• Listening to music while driving decreases the rate of car crashes.
• English language learners should be immersed in English .
• Lotteries should be illegal, the same as gambling and casinos.

🎓 Persuasive Speech Topics for College

• The government should take serious measures to prevent the issue of child pornography .
• Should Mormon children be returned to their homes ?
• Enormous coffee consumption can cause anxiety or panic attacks.
• The three-day weekends can increase work productivity .
• All police officers should wear a body camera .
• Why texting on the road is the leading cause of car accidents?
• The number of ads on the billboards should be cut.
• Should public servants have the right to strike ?
• Democracy as the government structure has a lot of pitfalls.
• Foreign aid from the United States should aim to support global peace.
• Why juveniles should be tried as adults .
• Affirmative action should be taken to redress historical and ingrained inequalities.
• The government should promote the spread of charter schools .
• Should casinos be legal in Texas ?
• The Black Lives Matter movement has played a vital role in preventing vigilante violence.
• COVID-19 vaccines should be mandatory to protect people at risk.
• Should parents have the right to choose their children based on genetics ?
• Genetic engineering can be used for the treatment of genetic diseases.
• White nationalism should be canceled.
• Should guns be banned from college campuses ?
• Why does routine make people feel healthier and more energetic?
• Food preferences have the power to connect people around the world.
• Individuals should not be allowed to sell their body organs .
• Positive childhood memories play a crucial role in a person’s development.
• Each individual should have a sense of purpose.
• Should aid to developing countries be stopped ?
• Border security should be a priority in ensuring national safety.
• Extreme weather disasters are the consequences of global warming.
• Should we rely on eye-witness testimonies to identify crime-suspects ?
• Why does applying sunscreen reduce the risks of skin cancer ?

Whether you want to change the opinion of your audience or motivate them to action, here are some fascinating and thought-provoking topics that are perfect for persuasive speeches:

• Year-round school is better for academic success .
• Should academic achievement be a primary concern for college admission ?
• The use of fossil fuels should be banned to stop global warming.
• The drinking age should be raised to 25 years old.
• Why should marijuana be legalized and crack or cocaine remain illegal ?
• Abortion should be legalized at the federal level.
• Why is a strong middle class crucial to economic development?
• Should social norms change at the brink of the new era ?
• Prisoners should be allowed to vote after being acquitted.
• Violent video games promote aggressive behavior in teenagers.
• Why should bullies be expelled from school ?
• Parents should not track the location of their children.
• Why is conflict necessary for change in a relationship?
• Drinking age should be lowered to 18 years .
• The prices of pharmaceutical drugs should be affordable for elders.

Persuasive Speech Topics about Music

• Every person who has good hearing may sing.
• Discusison of why we should keep vocal fry .
• Why does classical music still play a vital role in music art?
• The lyrics of a song should elicit emotions in the audience.
• Legalizing free downloads of music and movies .
• Music is an effective way to communicate with the masses.
• Pirating music is a severe danger to the country’s economy.
• Can music be an enhancement to education ?
• Rap music has a bad influence on people’s behavior.
• Music should be an anchor to positive emotions.
• How does music reinforce stereotypes ?
• Songs with violent lyrics should be banned for teenagers under 18.
• Music has the potential to be the most effective therapy for mental illnesses.
• Does music distract students or help them ?
• Why should patriotic songs inspire people to feel passionate about their country?

Sports Persuasive Speech Topics

• Coaches should be more active in athlete health management.
• Should athletes be held to a higher moral standard ?
• Why should hunting animals be banned as a sport in all countries?
• Extreme sports with severe consequences should be outlawed.
• Should football be banned for being too violent and dangerous ?
• Heavy training and burnout put young athletes at risk of serious injury.
• Alcohol and tobacco advertising during athletic events should be forbidden.
• Reasons why kids should not play football .
• The success of the football team depends on coaching skills.
• College athletic teams should have sponsorship from the government.
• College athletes should not be paid .
• Terrorist countries should not be allowed to host international sporting activities.
• Why do stress and anxiety make athletes more vulnerable to injuries?
• Should Russian athletes be allowed to play in tournaments ?
• The pay for men and women athletes should be equal.

Social Media Persuasive Speech Topics

• Social media dating should be treated more seriously.
• Should social media be banned ?
• Social media is to blame for the proliferation of online sexual exploitation.
• Why does Internet communication impact politics and social awareness?
• YouTube comments: users should have a choice .
• Instagram and TikTok make people more selfish.
• The use of social networks should be banned for elementary school students.
• Lemon coffee trend on TikTok shouldn’t be done .
• Social media causes severe mental disorders.
• Why do social networks lead to problems with self-esteem ?
• Should online shaming be considered a problem ?
• Instagram is the best place to earn money in the modern world.
• The key benefit of social media is the freedom of speech .
• Social media for children: threat or opportunity ?
• People should be more cautious with using social networks.

The field of medicine provides many intriguing and interesting persuasive speech topics for students! You can check some of them below:

• Healthcare should be a right, not a privilege.
• Should parents avoid vaccinating their children ?
• Why should health insurance cover dentistry?
• Artificial intelligence positively influences the healthcare industry.
• Mandatory overtime for nurses should be eliminated .
• Medical aid for dying should be legalized.
• Organ donation and transportation should not be forbidden.
• Why we should all be wearing face masks .
• Marijuana should be legalized for medical purposes .
• COVID-19 vaccination protects children and adolescents.
• Should we withhold life support ?
• Healthy eating habits positively impact physical health.
• E-cigarettes lead to lung cancer and cardiovascular disease.
• Should physician-assisted suicide be legal ?
• The quality of prenatal and postnatal care should be improved.
• Animal testing in medical research should be canceled.
• Should COVID-19 vaccines be mandatory ?
• Sex education is crucial in preventing teenage pregnancy .
• Childhood obesity comes from the lack of nutrition education in schools.
• Should patients have access to truthful information ?
• Regular medical checkups lower the chance of premature mortality.
• People should regulate the amount of sugar intake to promote a healthy lifestyle.
• Competence for nurses: why is it important ?

Mental Health Persuasive Speech Topics

• Employers should create healthy work environments for their workforce.
• Social media as a cause of anxiety and depression .
• Children experience mental health issues less often than adults.
• Stress at work leads to severe psychological issues.
• Does social media use contribute to depression ?
• Music therapy should be widely used in healing and recovery processes.
• Implicit bias shapes the way medical providers interact with patients.
• Hypnotherapy as an effective method for treating depression .
• Regular sport and a healthy diet promote good mental well-being.
• Why do open discussions on mental health help cope with anxiety?
• Substance abuse: the cause of social problems .
• Promoting a person’s social-emotional well-being leads to lower crime rates .
• Raising awareness of mental health reduces suicide rates .
• Why is anxiety not related to personal weakness ?
• Mental healthcare professionals should encourage self-care to avoid burnout.

Psychology Persuasive Speech Topics

• Trauma-focused psychotherapy is the most effective method of treating people with PTSD .
• Psychology: when we should trust our senses .
• Why do family relationships affect behavior patterns in children?
• Burnout at work is the leading cause of mental disorders.
• Is creativity a modern panacea from boredom and depression ?
• People should not work as psychologists without higher education.
• The harm reduction treatment model is a great alternative to abstinence.
• Is Islamic spirituality a key to psychological well-being ?
• Why is it a bad idea for therapists to text clients?
• The social pressure from peers leads to a mental breakdown.
• Psychological testing: beneficial or harmful ?
• War veterans should take therapy for PTSD.
• Marketing firms use human behavior patterns to their advantage.
• Psychology: does a criminal mind exist ?
• Happy childhood does not guarantee good mental health.

🍃 Environmental Persuasive Speech Topics

The environment takes an important place in our lives. We can make beneficial changes and save the Earth for future generations by highlighting numerous persuasive environmental topics in our speeches! Here are some of the most relevant ones:

• Eco-fashion is an effective way to save the Earth.
• Clear cutting in rainforest should be limited .
• Plastic pollution poses a danger to the marine ecosystem.
• Why does overpopulation negatively impact the environment?
• Seven things you should know about the eco-friendly bags .
• Eco-tourism helps conserve natural resources and raise environmental consciousness.
• People should care about e-waste in our digital age.
• Reasons why plastic bags should be banned .
• Why do plant-based diets positively affect people’s mental and physical health?
• Rural development contributes to widespread pollution and wildfires.
• Should the Green New Deal be embraced ?
• Buying sustainable production has a positive effect on biodiversity promotion.
• Quality of life highly depends on the quality of the environment.
• Water recycling: why is it important ?
• Every person should plant a tree beside the house.
• Littering should be punished with heavy fines.
• Renewable energy: why do we need it ?
• Covid-19 has played an essential role in the environment’s recovery.
• Developed countries are responsible for global warming .
• Why hunting is environmentally beneficial .
• We should aim toward a paperless society.
• A carbon tax should be necessary to preserve the environment.
• Biodiversity on the Earth: why is it crucial for the environment ?

Persuasive Speech Topics about Food

• Fast-food restaurants should ban the usage of palm oil.
• Should Americans adopt a vegan lifestyle ?
• Why should the use of chemicals in agriculture be decreased?
• Factory farms increase the instance or exacerbation of asthma cases .
• Should food manufacturers label all GMOs ?
• Food waste significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions.
• People should form mindful consumption habits and proper food storage techniques.
• Eating home-cooked food is essential .
• Seasonal eating has a positive impact on reducing transportation emissions.
• Plastic food packaging should be banned around the world.
• Is fast food really harmful and can it be healthy ?
• The government should take water-saving measures at the national level.
• Why can optimizing energy usage in food processing save the environment?
• Genetically modified foods: how safe are they ?
• A responsible food system contributes to the long-term health of our planet.

Persuasive Speech Topics About Animals

• People should prioritize the protection of endangered species .
• Animals should have the same rights as humans: pros and cons .
• Zoos should be closed to prevent animal abuse.
• Beauty companies that encourage animal testing should be banned.
• Animal welfare: why animals should be treated with kindness and respect .
• Why are animal sports banning campaigns ineffective?
• Young kids should be taught how to take care of animals.
• Save animals: experimentation should be stopped .
• Spending time with pets reduces stress and depression.
• Domestic animals should be vaccinated as necessary.
• Animal use in scientific testing should be stopped .
• Pets should be adopted from the shelter rather than bought in a shop.
• Why should pets be microchipped?
• Should animals be used for research ?
• Flies, bees, and other insects are essential to the ecosystem.

Ethical persuasive speech topics provide a compelling platform for discussing our world’s moral issues and inspiring significant change. Below are the best persuasive speech topics on ethics themes that can come in handy!

• People should live together before marriage.
• Philosophy prospectus: why should we be moral ?
• LGBT people should be permitted to serve in the military .
• Why should suicide commitment be legal?
• Should parents be responsible for children’s crimes ?
• Vaccinations against infectious illnesses should be made mandatory in schools.
• Why is lying appropriate when it comes down to survival?
• Why should I be moral when it is not in my best interest to do so ?
• A sugar tax can assist in reducing the spread of diet-related health issues.
• People should be legally responsible for their moral decisions and actions.
• Should Kant be criticized for his absolutism ?
• Why should graffiti be considered art?
• Wearing natural fur and leather is unethical in the modern world.
• Should children be tried as adults for murder ?
• Children should be protected from using inappropriate websites.
• Each person should own a gun for personal protection.
• Ethical dilemma: should gene editing be performed on human embryos ?
• Kids should be taught ethics in elementary school.
• Religious organizations should be required to pay taxes.
• Should behavior be made illegal because it is considered immoral ?
• Innovative gadgets make teenagers lazy and rude.
• Terminally ill patients should have access to euthanasia .
• Should the powerful have a right to rule over the weak ?

Business Persuasive Speech Topics

• Harassment is one of the most significant ethical challenges in business .
• Biometric security should be mainstream in firms .
• Abuse of leadership negatively affects company development.
• Why are transparency and trustworthiness crucial in business financial performance?
• Should companies disclose key executives’ medical problems ?
• Extraverts are worse entrepreneurs than introverts.
• Companies should foremost create a good working environment for their employees.
• Should companies engage corporate social responsibility ?
• Smoke breaks should not be allowed during the working process.
• Why is working for a rival a wise decision?
• Should marketers test advertising ?
• Political relationships should not be used for business development .
• Free perks to employees positively influence overall productivity.
• Why should businesses embrace remote work ?
• Each business should take corporate social responsibility .

Political Persuasive Speech Topics

• Psychological therapies should be government funded.
• Should illegal immigrants be made legal citizens ?
• Why is torture an inappropriate method to receive a confession in prison?
• Welfare recipients should be obliged to submit to a drug test.
• Why gun control laws should be scrapped .
• Political corruption should be punished with the death penalty.
• Why should the government fund partisan organizations?
• Why should Bernie Sanders be a president ?
• The voting age should be decreased to 16 years old.
• Why is there never a good enough cause to declare war?
• Military policy that should be changed .
• Prostitution should be legalized and protected by the law.
• Illegal immigration significantly impacts terrorism act rates.
• Chinese one-child policy: why it should not be relaxed .
• Health insurance should be mandatory by law.

Persuasive Speech Topics About Education

• Teachers should use social networks to communicate with students.
• Should Canada provide free tuition for university students ?
• Why is higher education overrated?
• Exams should no longer be used to assess the skills of students.
• Why should vocabulary lessons be taught ?
• Online learning is more effective than attending classes at school.
• University bribes affect hardworking students.
• Should stimulants be prescribed to boost grades ?
• Why do teachers assist students in cheating during exams ?
• Teachers’ preferential treatment in schools should be punished.
• Should the US adopt the British tradition of a gap year ?
• Parents and students should report bullying and cyberbullying cases.
• Students should not be allowed to have their phones with them during school.
• Should concealed handguns be allowed in Texas classrooms ?
• Immigrants without documents should be permitted to attend public schools.

Problem-solution topics convince audiences to actively engage in discovering practical and effective answers to challenges affecting our society. Check out some ideas below!

• How can we deal with climate change ?
• Should Georgia legalize gambling to raise revenue ?
• Maintaining peace and security is critical for poverty prevention.
• Filtration and disinfection as methods to solve the water pollution issue.
• Have “three-strikes” laws been effective and should they be continued ?
• How can a rise in public awareness decrease human rights violation cases?
• Taking baths as a way to reduce anxiety and stress.
• Why should immigrants receive social services ?
• How can the government solve the problem of wage inequality ?
• Buying e-books as a way to protect the environment.
• Where and how sex education should be conducted among the young people ?
• Government sanctions are crucial to reducing child labor .
• How can we provide adequate salaries for qualified teachers?
• The Right-to-Die bill: why all states should pass it .
• Interactive games as a way to increase attention in class.
• International cooperation is vital to combat cyber threats .
• Should the province of Nova Scotia increase its minimum wage ?
• Donating as a method to reduce global poverty .
• How to deal with misinformation and fake news in the digital age?
• How should we deal with the rising cost of education ?
• Planning strategies are essential to solve the problem of overpopulation.
• How can gender inequality be stopped at school or the workplace?
• Animal transplantation and commerce in organs should be used to reduce the shortage in organs .
• Increasing access to cheap internet infrastructure as a way to narrow the digital gap.
• How can we solve the problem of doping in sports ?
• E-cigarettes smoking: threat or solution ?
• Good school culture as a modern approach to reducing truancy .
• Reading out loud helps improve the critical thinking of students .
• Assisted suicide as a solution in end-of-life care .
• How can we make the media ethical and responsible?

Funny persuasive speech topics perform two functions: entertain and persuade the target audience. We have prepared a list of the cleverest ideas for you to use in your speech!

• Video games should be considered a sport.
• Should apartments ban dogs based on breed ?
• Why is the Moon landing fake?
• Eating dessert first positively impacts people’s well-being.
• Feminism: how a man should look at a woman .
• The homework for high school students should be canceled.
• Laughing is the best therapy for depression.
• Why should pitbulls not be banned ?
• People in the future should have personal robots.
• Why should children be allowed to choose their bedtime?
• Should people under 18 get a tattoo ?
• Instagram kills individuality in teenagers.
• Why should schools have pizza breaks between classes?
• Should plant-based dairy be labeled as milk ?
• Parents should not be allowed to comment on their kids’ wardrobe choices.
• The consumption of junk food should be controlled on the federal level.
• The United States government should release more UFO information to the public .
• Comic books should be used to teach Mathematics.
• The mismatched socks impact academic performance during exams.
• Should spamming be illegal ?
• The government should create insurance for breakups.
• The Loch Ness Monster should be protected from annoying tourists.
• Should people be paid to stay healthy ?
• Why can sarcastic jokes save the conversation?
• Men should always go on compromise with their wives.
• Gender stereotypes: should real men wear pink ?
• Rap music provokes aggressive behavior among teens.
• Why breaking up via social media should be illegal?
• Online dating should not be classified as dating .
• Binge-watching Netflix should be practiced during the lessons.

Controversial persuasive speech topics provoke listeners’ critical thinking and encourage dynamic discussion. Check the best persuasive speech topics on controversial themes below!

• Why does a bad first date lead to a strong and long relationship?
• Why should flogging be brought back ?
• The dream job topic is the lightest way to talk about work.
• Aliens should share their secret technologies with NATO.
• Ukraine should not join the European Union .
• Only intelligent speakers should have freedom of speech.
• Atheism is not a religion but rather a philosophical position.
• Should college education be free for all US citizens ?
• Why is nuclear energy ingrained as part of the power grid in the US?
• Terrorists are generally more sadistic than religious.
• Why cameras should be placed in public places .
• Everyone should be able to possess a gun .
• Why is it crucial to be selfish from time to time?
• Should schools distribute condoms ?
• People should pass the test on political awareness before voting.
• Gay people should be permitted to adopt children.
• Should the sale of human organs be legalized ?
• Why is feminism irrelevant in the 21st century?
• Schools should provide free birth control for teenagers .
• Should gay and lesbian couples be allowed to adopt ?
• Children as young as 12 should be allowed to work.
• Why should human cloning be allowed?
• Should the US resume a millitary draft ?
• The show The Kardashians is harming society.
• Why are most conspiracy theories fake?
• What should society censor ?
• The Big Bang Theory movie deepens viewers’ knowledge of science.
• McDonald’s should be opened in every town around the world.
• Why should abortion be included in the national healthcare plan ?
• Why is writing an autobiography a good idea?

Need to write a persuasive essay ? Do not panic! Here are some additional persuasive topics that you can use for your writing:

• Negative news on TV increases the level of stress.
• Should sex and violence be restricted on television ?
• Leisure time should be spent with benefits for physical and mental health.
• Daydreaming develops learning skills in students.
• Why the government should not have bailed out banks .
• Every person should be required to participate in national public service.
• Cell phone radiation is hazardous to people’s health.
• What qualities should a leader have ?
• More money should be invested in space exploration .
• Alternative medicine should be outlawed.
• Mandatory job drug test should be allowed .
• Why can stalkers be dangerous?
• Parents should not buy a lot of candies for their children.
• Which country should the US invest in, Australia or Mexico ?
• Students should plant trees to contribute to a greener environment.
• Why is your biggest failure the most beneficial lesson for you?
• Why should we look at race when trying to understand fascism ?
• Countries that started the wars should pay reparations .
• Pineapple on a pizza should be canceled.
• Why Guantanamo Bay should stay open .
• Why should you and your parents never be friends on Instagram?
• Starting a day by making a bed increases productivity during the day.
• Why the Pantheon should be preserved .
• TikTok is an entertaining social network as well as educational.
• Using curse words should be taxed.
• Should net neutrality be protected or discontinued ?
• Dreaming is the first step in achieving the goal.
• Stereotypes and biases are not appropriate in the modern world.
• Should Turkey enter the European Union ?
• Why are politics bad role models for children?

What Is a Persuasive Speech?

A persuasive speech is a type of communication with the audience where the speaker tries to persuade them by appealing to logic, ethics, or emotions. The speaker must provide clear arguments to back up their point of view. In contrast to informative speeches, persuasive speeches do not try to give information. Instead, they motivate audiences to think or behave differently.

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech?

Various qualities characterize effective persuasive speeches:

• Attention-grabbing introduction . Convincing speakers immediately draw the listener into their messages by starting with a brief intriguing statement supported by evidence.
• Authority to speak . The audience usually heeds speakers’ messages if they establish their expertise and credibility.
• The logical order . The speaker should put the arguments logically and sequentially to control the information flow.
• Effective conclusion . The final part of the speech is the last chance to convince the audience, so it must summarize key points and include a call to action.

What to Write a Persuasive Speech on?

To find a perfect topic for your speech, follow the steps below:

• Think of something that is important to you or has a life-changing effect.
• Try to understand what makes you happy or angry about this theme.
• Write down ways in which you can make a difference.

That’s it! Now you know which topic has the potential to inspire action or change among the target listeners!

What Are Good Persuasive Speech Topics?

If you want to rock the stage as a public speaker, aim at topics that are controversial and risky. Human cloning, polygamy, workplace romance, and abortion are just a few examples. Like no other, such topics provoke the audience to take action and change. In addition, they raise deep concern in listeners’ minds and show alternative viewpoints on the issue.

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• Top 10 Controversial Psychiatric Disorders | LiveScience
• Mental Health Myths and Facts | SAMHSA
• Select a Research Topic: Current Events and Controversial Issues | Southern Adventist University
• Persuasive Speeches: What Are You Questioning? | UNC Greensboro
• 100 Persuasive Speech Topics for Students | ThoughtCo
• Persuasive Speech Topics on Relationships | Classroom
• Unique Persuasive Speech Topics for College | YourDictionary
• How to Slay Your Speech | University of Alaska Fairbanks
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50 Persuasive Speech Topics

Empower your voice: crafting compelling persuasive speech topics + 50 examples.

In the realm of human interaction, persuasion reigns supreme. From ancient orators captivating crowds in the Agora of Athens to modern-day politicians rallying supporters, the ability to persuade others is an invaluable skill that transcends time and culture. Whether you’re aiming to sway opinions, inspire action, or effect change, mastering the art of persuasion is essential.

Setting the Stage: The Power of Persuasion

Imagine standing before a sea of faces, each one waiting with bated breath to hear your words. In that moment, you hold not just their attention but also the potential to shape their thoughts, beliefs, and actions. This is the power of persuasion – the ability to influence others through compelling rhetoric, logical arguments, and emotional appeals.

Throughout history, persuasive communication has been the driving force behind momentous events and transformative movements. From Martin Luther King Jr.’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech to Susan B. Anthony’s impassioned pleas for women’s suffrage, persuasive speech has served as a catalyst for social progress and positive change.

Understanding the Importance of Persuasive Speech Topics

At the heart of every persuasive speech lies a carefully chosen topic – a focal point around which arguments are crafted, evidence is presented, and minds are swayed. But what makes a persuasive speech topic truly compelling? Why is it that some topics have the power to captivate audiences while others fall flat?

The importance of persuasive speech topics cannot be overstated. They serve as the foundation upon which the entire speech is built, guiding the direction of the argument and shaping the audience’s perception. A well-chosen topic not only captures attention but also resonates with the values, beliefs, and concerns of the audience, making it more likely to elicit a favorable response.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve deep into the art of crafting compelling persuasive speech topics. We will explore the characteristics of effective topics, discuss strategies for brainstorming and selecting the right topic, and provide practical tips for structuring and delivering persuasive speeches.

From understanding your audience and tailoring your message to conducting thorough research and honing your delivery skills, this article will equip you with the tools and techniques you need to become a masterful persuader. Whether you’re a student preparing for a class presentation, a professional advocating for a cause, or simply someone who wants to communicate more persuasively, this guide is your roadmap to success.

So, without further ado, let us embark on a journey into the art of persuasion and discover the secrets to crafting persuasive speech topics that leave a lasting impact.

What Makes a Persuasive Speech Topic Compelling?

In the vast landscape of public speaking, the success of a persuasive speech hinges greatly on the topic chosen. A compelling persuasive speech topic possesses certain qualities that captivate the audience, evoke emotion, and provoke thought. Let’s explore what sets these topics apart, starting with defining persuasive speech topics and then delving into the elements that make them truly compelling.

Defining Persuasive Speech Topics

Persuasive speech topics are subjects or issues that the speaker aims to advocate for or convince the audience to support. Unlike informative speeches that focus on imparting knowledge, persuasive speeches seek to influence the audience’s beliefs, attitudes, or actions. These topics typically revolve around controversial issues or matters of significance, where differing viewpoints exist and where persuasion can make a meaningful impact.

Identifying the Elements of Compelling Topics

• Relevance: Compelling persuasive speech topics are relevant to the audience’s interests, concerns, or values. They address current or timeless issues that resonate with the audience on a personal or societal level.
• Controversy: Controversial topics spark debate and arouse strong emotions, making them inherently compelling. They invite differing perspectives and challenge the audience to critically evaluate their own beliefs.
• Significance: Topics that address pressing societal issues or have real-world implications tend to be more compelling. They highlight issues of importance and urgency, motivating the audience to take action or reconsider their stance.
• Novelty: Unconventional or unique topics can pique curiosity and intrigue the audience. Presenting fresh insights or unconventional solutions to familiar problems can make a topic stand out and capture attention.
• Personal Connection: Topics that relate to the audience’s personal experiences, challenges, or aspirations are inherently compelling. They create a sense of empathy and resonance, fostering a stronger emotional connection with the audience.
• Feasibility: Compelling topics offer practical solutions or actionable steps that the audience can implement. They inspire hope and optimism by demonstrating tangible ways to address the issue at hand.
• Ethical Considerations: Topics that appeal to moral values or ethical principles often resonate deeply with the audience. They challenge the audience to reflect on their own values and consider the ethical implications of their beliefs or actions.

Examples of Effective Persuasive Speech Topics

• The Importance of Mental Health Awareness in Schools
• Addressing Climate Change: The Urgency of Renewable Energy Transition
• The Benefits of Universal Healthcare: Ensuring Access to Quality Medical Services
• Combatting Cyberbullying: Strategies for Creating Safer Online Spaces
• Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace: Embracing Differences for Organizational Success
• The Case for Legalizing Marijuana: Examining Economic, Social, and Health Impacts
• Overcoming Food Insecurity: Solutions for Hunger Relief and Sustainable Agriculture
• Raising Awareness about Animal Cruelty: Advocating for Ethical Treatment of Animals
• Reducing Plastic Pollution: Transitioning to Sustainable Packaging Alternatives
• Empowering Women in STEM: Breaking Barriers and Promoting Gender Equality
• The Dangers of Fast Fashion: Promoting Sustainable and Ethical Clothing Practices
• Fighting for LGBTQ+ Rights: Ensuring Equal Rights and Protections for All Individuals
• Enhancing Mental Health Support for Veterans: Addressing the Challenges of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• The Impact of Social Media on Mental Well-being: Navigating the Pitfalls and Promoting Healthy Habits
• Promoting Financial Literacy Education in Schools: Equipping Students with Essential Money Management Skills
• Reducing Gun Violence: Exploring Policy Solutions for Safer Communities
• The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence: Balancing Innovation with Ethical Considerations
• Promoting Sustainable Tourism: Preserving Natural Resources and Cultural Heritage
• Empowering Indigenous Communities: Addressing Historical Injustices and Promoting Cultural Preservation
• Tackling Homelessness: Strategies for Providing Shelter, Support, and Opportunities for the Homeless
• The Need for Comprehensive Sex Education: Promoting Healthy Relationships and Preventing Teenage Pregnancy
• Addressing Income Inequality: Strategies for Closing the Wage Gap and Promoting Economic Equity
• Promoting Mental Health Support in Schools: Breaking the Stigma and Providing Resources for Students
• Protecting Endangered Species: Conservation Efforts and Habitat Restoration Initiatives
• The Importance of Civic Engagement: Encouraging Voter Participation and Advocacy for Change
• Reducing Plastic Waste: Implementing Policies for Recycling and Single-Use Plastic Bans
• Promoting Sustainable Transportation: Encouraging Cycling, Walking, and Public Transit Use
• The Impact of Fake News on Democracy: Promoting Media Literacy and Critical Thinking Skills
• Addressing Mental Health Stigma in Minority Communities: Culturally Competent Approaches to Support
• Promoting Fair Trade Practices: Ensuring Ethical Treatment of Workers and Sustainable Production Methods
• The Benefits of Meditation and Mindfulness: Promoting Mental Well-being and Stress Reduction
• Fighting Human Trafficking: Supporting Victims and Combatting Modern-Day Slavery
• Promoting Body Positivity: Embracing Diversity and Challenging Beauty Standards
• The Case for Renewable Energy Investment: Creating Jobs and Reducing Dependence on Fossil Fuels
• Reducing Prescription Drug Prices: Ensuring Access to Affordable Medication for All
• Promoting Arts Education in Schools: Nurturing Creativity and Cultural Appreciation
• Addressing Food Deserts: Strategies for Improving Access to Healthy, Affordable Food Options
• Supporting Small Businesses: Stimulating Local Economies and Fostering Entrepreneurship
• The Importance of Comprehensive Immigration Reform: Ensuring Fair and Just Policies
• Promoting Gender-Neutral Language: Creating Inclusive Spaces and Challenging Gender Stereotypes
• Reducing Plastic Pollution in Oceans: Innovative Solutions for Cleaning Up Marine Debris
• The Benefits of Community Gardens: Promoting Healthy Eating and Community Engagement
• Addressing Mental Health in the Workplace: Creating Supportive Environments and Reducing Stigma
• Promoting Renewable Energy Adoption: Incentivizing Solar, Wind, and Hydroelectric Power
• Supporting Refugee Resettlement: Providing Safe Havens and Opportunities for Integration
• The Importance of Accessible Education: Ensuring Equal Opportunities for Students with Disabilities
• Addressing Police Brutality: Promoting Accountability and Reforming Law Enforcement Practices
• Promoting Sustainable Fashion: Supporting Ethical and Eco-Friendly Clothing Brands
• Reducing Teenage Smoking: Implementing Tobacco Control Measures and Anti-Smoking Campaigns
• The Case for Universal Basic Income: Addressing Poverty and Income Inequality through Financial Support

These examples illustrate the diverse range of topics that can be explored in persuasive speeches. Each topic has the potential to spark meaningful conversations, challenge societal norms, and inspire positive change. By selecting a compelling persuasive speech topic and crafting a persuasive argument, speakers can effectively engage their audience and make a lasting impact.

Choosing the Right Persuasive Speech Topic

Selecting the appropriate topic for your persuasive speech is crucial to its success. The right topic can captivate your audience, engage their emotions, and compel them to action. In this section, we will explore three key factors to consider when choosing a persuasive speech topic: understanding your audience, assessing personal interest and expertise, and balancing emotion and logic.

Understanding Your Audience

One of the first steps in choosing a persuasive speech topic is to understand your audience. Consider who they are, what they care about, and what motivates them. Tailoring your topic to resonate with your audience’s interests, values, and beliefs can increase the likelihood of your message being well-received.

Ask yourself the following questions:

• Who is my audience? Are they peers, colleagues, community members, or a mixed group?
• What are their demographics, such as age, gender, education level, and socio-economic background?
• What are their interests, concerns, and priorities?
• What are their existing attitudes or opinions on the topic?
• What kind of language and tone will resonate with them?

By understanding your audience’s perspective, you can choose a topic that speaks directly to their needs and interests, making your speech more persuasive and impactful.

Assessing Personal Interest and Expertise

Another important consideration when selecting a persuasive speech topic is your own personal interest and expertise. Choose a topic that you are genuinely passionate about and knowledgeable about. Your enthusiasm and expertise will shine through in your delivery, making your speech more compelling and convincing.

Reflect on the following:

• What topics am I genuinely interested in or passionate about?
• What subjects do I have expertise or experience in?
• What topics align with my personal values and beliefs?
• What topics am I comfortable discussing and defending?

Selecting a topic that you are passionate about will not only make the speech-writing process more enjoyable but will also enable you to speak with authenticity and conviction, which can resonate strongly with your audience.

Balancing Emotion and Logic

Finally, when choosing a persuasive speech topic, it’s essential to strike a balance between emotion and logic. Persuasive speeches are most effective when they appeal to both the rational and emotional sides of the audience’s psyche.

Consider the following:

• How can I evoke emotion in my audience, such as empathy, compassion, or outrage?
• What logical arguments, evidence, and reasoning can I present to support my stance?
• How can I use storytelling, anecdotes, or real-life examples to make my arguments more relatable and compelling?
• How can I address potential counterarguments and objections in a logical and persuasive manner?

By combining emotional appeals with logical reasoning, you can create a persuasive speech that resonates with your audience on both an intellectual and emotional level, increasing its impact and persuasiveness.

Choosing the right persuasive speech topic involves understanding your audience, assessing personal interest and expertise, and balancing emotion and logic. By considering these factors carefully, you can select a topic that resonates with your audience, aligns with your interests and expertise, and effectively persuades them to take action or change their beliefs.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid in Choosing Persuasive Speech Topics

While selecting a persuasive speech topic, it’s crucial to navigate potential pitfalls that can undermine the effectiveness of your message. In this section, we’ll discuss three common pitfalls to avoid: choosing overly controversial topics, neglecting research or evidence, and ignoring counterarguments.

1. Overly Controversial Topics

While controversy can sometimes spark engagement and discussion, choosing an overly controversial topic can backfire. Topics that are too divisive or polarizing may alienate portions of your audience, making it challenging to effectively persuade them. Moreover, overly controversial topics may overshadow the message you’re trying to convey, focusing attention on the controversy itself rather than the substance of your argument.

To avoid this pitfall, consider the following:

• Aim for topics that are relevant and significant but not needlessly provocative.
• Choose topics that have a reasonable degree of consensus or common ground, allowing for constructive dialogue.
• Consider the diversity of your audience and select topics that are inclusive and respectful of differing viewpoints.

By opting for topics that strike a balance between relevance and controversy, you can engage your audience without risking alienation or polarization.

2. Lack of Research or Evidence

One of the hallmarks of persuasive speech is the use of research and evidence to support your arguments. Failing to conduct thorough research or provide credible evidence can weaken the persuasiveness of your speech and undermine your credibility as a speaker. Without solid evidence to back up your claims, your arguments may come across as unsubstantiated opinions rather than persuasive assertions.

To avoid this pitfall, make sure to:

• Conduct comprehensive research on your chosen topic, gathering data, statistics, and expert opinions from reputable sources.
• Use a variety of evidence types, including empirical studies, expert testimony, and real-life examples, to bolster your arguments.
• Attribute your sources accurately and transparently, demonstrating integrity and trustworthiness as a speaker.

By grounding your arguments in solid research and evidence, you can enhance the credibility and persuasiveness of your speech.

3. Ignoring Counterarguments

Persuasive speakers acknowledge and address opposing viewpoints rather than dismissing them outright. Ignoring counterarguments can make your speech appear one-sided and diminish its persuasiveness. By anticipating and refuting potential objections, you demonstrate critical thinking skills and a willingness to engage with differing perspectives, which can strengthen your argument and enhance your credibility.

• Identify potential counterarguments or objections that your audience may have.
• Acknowledge opposing viewpoints respectfully and accurately, demonstrating understanding and empathy.
• Present counterarguments in a fair and balanced manner, then refute them with logic, evidence, and reasoning.
• Use counterarguments as opportunities to strengthen your own position and clarify your message.

By addressing counterarguments head-on, you can bolster the persuasiveness of your speech and build trust with your audience.

In conclusion, by avoiding common pitfalls such as choosing overly controversial topics, neglecting research or evidence, and ignoring counterarguments, you can enhance the effectiveness of your persuasive speech and increase your chances of influencing your audience.

Mastering the art of persuasive speech topics is an essential skill for effective communication and advocacy. Throughout this guide, we’ve explored the various facets of crafting compelling persuasive speech topics, from understanding the audience to avoiding common pitfalls. By following the principles outlined here, you can elevate your persuasive speaking abilities and make a meaningful impact on your audience.

Effective persuasive speech topics are those that resonate with the audience’s interests, values, and concerns while also aligning with your own passions and expertise. They strike a balance between emotion and logic, appealing to both the heart and the mind. Moreover, persuasive speech topics should be supported by thorough research and evidence, lending credibility and authority to your arguments.

Choosing the right persuasive speech topic involves careful consideration of the audience’s perspective, your personal interests and expertise, and the balance between controversy and consensus. By selecting topics that are relevant, significant, and inclusive, you can engage your audience and inspire them to action or change.

Additionally, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls such as choosing overly controversial topics, neglecting research or evidence, and ignoring counterarguments. By navigating these pitfalls with diligence and foresight, you can strengthen the persuasiveness of your speech and enhance your credibility as a speaker.

In essence, persuasive speech topics have the power to inform, inspire, and persuade. Whether you’re advocating for social change, promoting a cause, or seeking to influence opinions, the right persuasive speech topic can be a catalyst for positive action and meaningful dialogue. With practice and dedication, you can become a masterful persuader, wielding the power of words to effect change in the world. So, go forth, craft your persuasive speech topics thoughtfully, and let your voice be heard.

March 21, 2024

Can't find what you're looking for?

700+ Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics to Wow Your Audiences

The hardest part of speeches is to decide on the topic! The most comprehensive list of persuasive speech topics is here! Choose your topic and let Decktopus create a presentation based on this topic.

What's Inside?

What is a persuasive speech?

Before talking more in-depth, we need to understand what a persuasive speech is. A persuasive speech is a type of speech where the speaker aims to convince or persuade the audience. The aim is to adopt, accept, or change beliefs about a particular viewpoint or take an action. The ultimate goal is to influence the audience's attitudes, behaviors, or opinions on a specific topic.

The Structure of a Persuasive Speech

A persuasive speech includes arguments, evidence supporting the arguments, and examples.It often includes an introduction to the topic, the body with main points and supporting details, and a conclusion that reinforces the key message. 

• Introduction: In the introduction, the speaker should introduce themselves and their credibility about this topic. After introducing yourself, give your thesis statement in a way that will grab the audience’s attention and show your expertise on the topic. In the end, state the main argument or the idea of the speech.
• Body: In the body part, the ideas introduced in the introduction should be supported. This part should include supporting evidence and examples. The listeners should be able to understand the logical reasoning behind your argument. Thus, you may also mention the counterarguments and your position against them.
• Conclusion: In the last part, as in the conclusion, key points should be summarized, the main argument should be concluded, and a memorable closing statement should be given. In the end, the main aim is to leave audiences as persuaded!

Persuasive Speech vs. Informative Speech

A persuasive speech is different from an informative speech. In an informative speech, the goal is to give information about a specific topic. Whereas in a persuasive speech, the speaker presents a conflict and favors a side of their speech.

We've launched new course at Decktopus Academy : " Mastering the Basics: Public Speaking For Beginners ." This comprehensive series is designed to equip you with fundamental skills, effective structuring, impactful delivery techniques, and the strategic use of humor.

Whether you're new to public speaking or looking to refine your skills, this course is your go-to resource. Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance your communication skills. After all, effective communication is the secret sauce behind every successful leader! Explore the course details here !

How to Deliver a Persuasive Speech

Tips and tricks to wow your audience, 1. decktopus.

Every speech needs powerful visuals! Decktopus can create your speech and turn it into a presentation simultaneously! Decktopus is a one-click solution for your persuasive speech!

Decktopus is an AI-powered presentation tool with multiple features. With its easy-to-use interface, all you have to do is answer five basic questions! After, a slide ready to present will be ready for you! This slide will include necessary information about your topic, images, logos, graphs, and titles!

To create an AI-powered slide in Decktopus, all you have to do is follow these 3 steps: 

Go to Decktopus . Sign in to Decktopus with your e-mail or Google account. On the Dashboard, you can choose to create your slide from scratch, create with a template, or create with AI. Click on the “Create with AI” option.

Try Decktopus AI now!

Follow the instructions by Decky! Answer the four questions with the help of our trusted AI. These questions are: 

• What is your presentation about?

• Who is your audience?

• What is the aim of this deck?

• Which template would you like to use?

Enter your persuasive speech topic, and let Decktopus create a powerful presentation for you!

Now, you have a slide ready! You can present it immediately, or you can make adjustments on Decktopus ! 

You can change the template, titles, texts, fonts, colors, images, graphs, or positions of the elements! Everything is possible! 

2. Choose the Right Topic

Choosing the appropriate topic is one of the most important parts of persuasive speeches. You should consider your interest and your audience's interest as well! 

Think about a topic that you will enjoy when preparing for the speech and also presenting it. You will focus and research this topic for hours! So, choose what you are passionate about! 

Also, consider your audience! Think about your audience's thoughts about the specific topic. Try to come up with an interesting but not strongly opposed topic!

3. Organize Your Speech Carefully

The format of your speech is as important as its content! Try to divide your speech into separate parts. Your speech should move smoothly from one part to another. This will captivate your audience and keep their attention! You may also consider creating an outline for this purpose.

List of Good Persuasive Speech Topics

In this blog, we combined a long list of persuasive speech topics divided into categories. Choose your topic carefully! After that, visit Decktopus 's website and create the best presentation for your speech! 

Persuasive Speech Topics about Arts, Humanities and Culture

• Should tattoos still be considered “unprofessional”?
• Importance of performing arts for holistic development 
• Graffiti: Art or Nuisance 
• Importance of art and culture 
• Museums are the dying reservoir of arts and culture 
• Entry to museums should be free 
• The slow death of ancient art forms 
• Modern art lacks authenticity
• Is it ethical for museums to keep indigenous artifacts?
• Should digital designs be considered an art form? 
• Should abstract art be considered an art form?
• Should graffiti be considered art?
• Should all national museums be free to citizens?
• Should an artist comply with the rules set by society while working on a project?
• Funding the Arts: Investing in Creativity as a Public Good
• Art Censorship: Where Should We Draw the Line?
• The Role of Public Art in Community Engagement

Best Literature and Movies Persuasive Speech Topics

• Should offensive language be censored from classic literary works?
• Should we keep reading classic literature that is offensive? 
• Can a movie persuade you with something you don’t believe in?
• Is creating films and documentaries about criminals glorifying them and inspiring some to become criminals themselves?
• Should there be a distinction between ‘high’ and ‘low’ literature?
• Are libraries becoming obsolete?
• Do romantic movies and books glorify an unrealistic idea of love and lead to heartbreak?
• Books are the only source of learning 
• Who is a hero? What are the “heroic” qualities?
• Living underwater: A reality or science fiction?

Psychology and Mental Health Persuasive Speech Topics

• Is music therapy effective?
• Does watching TV shows or movies about teenage suicide encourage it or prevent it?
• Simple ways to overcome stress.
• Should art and music therapy be covered by health insurance?
• Should art and music therapy be prioritized over traditional talk therapy?
• How can writing a journal help you become a better person?
• Does watching reality television affect people’s mental health?
• Can action movies cause unwanted stress?
• Reality shows affect people’s mental health.
• Reading inspirational and humorous quotes improves your mood
• Can child abuse and traumas lead to future mental disorders?
• Can family history make children more prone to stress and anxiety?
• Personality disorders among teens. Are they easy to identify?
• How our differences make us unique
• Is empathy better for our social relationships?
• Learning from your mistakes
• Social media affects people’s self-image and self-confidence
• Phobias of children, teens, and adults. What are the similarities and differences?
• When is it right to give children medications to overcome mental issues?
• Suicide among teenagers. Is the media affecting it?
• Studying psychology stresses students.
• Peer pressure is the cause of a lot of mental problems during the teenage years.
• The Necessity of Mental Health Education in High Schools
• Workplace Mental Health: Employer Responsibilities
• Social Media's Role in Adolescent Mental Health
• De-stigmatizing Mental Health in Sports Culture
• Mental Health First Aid: As Crucial as Physical First Aid?
• The Impact of Sleep on College Students' Mental Health
• Access to Mental Health Services for the Homeless
• The Correlation Between Creativity and Mental Health
• Mental Health Screenings as a Standard in Annual Physicals
• The Role of Nutrition in Mental Well-being

Motivation and Self-Growth

• Following dreams is hard 
• Goal setting is important for success 
• Overcoming stage fright is crucial for success 
• Importance of creating a positive vibe 
• Sustainable living is a source of motivation 
• Happiness can be measured 
• Personal experience is more important than rote learning 
• Exposure to violence leads to demotivation 
• Video games increase motivation 

Persuasive Speech Topics about Travel

• Airline tickets should be cheaper 
• Travel brings new experiences 
• Travel makes you more inclusive 
• Eco-tourism is important for sustainable development 
• Flying first class is a once-in-a-lifetime experience 
• Traveling in a guided group is monotonous 
• Traveling and studying abroad are positive experiences.
• Solo travel allows the best way to self-exploration 
• Antarctica should not be open to tourists 
• Environmentally endangered sites should not allow tourism 
• Tourism boosts the local economy

School Policies and Education System 

• Should schools place greater emphasis on the arts programs?
• Should all schools have mandatory art or music courses in their curriculum?
• Schools should host annual arts festivals 
• Should performing arts be made credit-based?
• Should art be a compulsory discipline? 
• Should art classes be mandatory for all students?
• Should all students be required to learn an instrument in school?
• Should classes about mental health and wellness be added to the school curriculum?
• At what age or grade should sex education be taught in schools?
• Should school funding be dependent on taxes of district residents, or should all schools receive an equal amount of funding from the state?
• What are the benefits of year-round schools?
• Are charter schools hurting or helping low-income communities?
• Is homeschooling beneficial or harmful to children?
• Should students on the Autism spectrum be integrated into regular classrooms?
• What should be the qualifications for books to be banned from schools?
• Are grades an accurate representation of learning?
• Should we switch to the metric system?
• What are the benefits of making preschool free to all families?
• Is forcing students to say the Pledge a violation of their right to freedom of speech?
• Should we ban certain books from school libraries?
• Should we remove historical figures who owned slaves and support slavery from school textbooks and other educational materials?
• The Importance of Cultural Exchange Programs in Education
• Should bullies in schools be expelled?
• Should students be allowed to listen to music during study hall?
• Should all elementary schools be required to teach a foreign language?
• Should schools include meditation or relaxation breaks during the day?
• Should boys and girls be taught in separate classrooms?
• Should grades in gym class have an effect on a student’s GPA?
• Should teachers get a bonus when their students score well on standardized tests?
• Should children of undocumented immigrants be allowed to attend public schools?
• Should elementary schools teach at least one foreign language?
• Should schools still teach cursive handwriting?
• What are the best ways for schools to stop bullying?
• Should post-secondary education be free?
• Should programming and coding be introduced to young students?
• Should school lunches be free?
• Does the education system prepare students for adult life?
• Should gyms be mandatory for all students?
• Do schools need to do a better job of teaching students a second language?
• Should schools teach sign language?
• What age should students be taught sex ed?
• Should distant learning be encouraged or avoided at all costs?
• Should schools have longer recess time?
• Should schools make swimming lessons mandatory?
• Proper research is needed to write a short essay.
• High-school and middle-school students should be trained to do presentations.
• Improving students’ presentation skills
• Should uniforms be obligatory in schools?
• Should there be separate classrooms for boys and girls?
• Students sent to boarding schools: A responsibility and a risk
• Does homework fulfill its purpose, or is it just a burden for students?
• The positive possible effect of spending a year as an exchange student
• Cell phones shouldn’t be allowed in schools
• Taking a year off school. Can it help you?
• Hilarious games in the class can help shy students get along with others
• A student’s grade: Is it a fair method of evaluation?

High Schools

• Should school districts offer bilingual education programs for non-native speakers?
• Should schools do away with their physical education requirements?
• Would trade schools and other forms of vocational training benefit a greater number of students than traditional institutions of higher education?
• Should taking a year off between high school and college be mandatory?
• Should high schools mandate a certain number of volunteer hours for students?
• Should schools incorporate a remote learning option into their curriculum?
• What is the most important book every high school student in America should read?
• What are the benefits of teaching art and music classes in high school?
• How can sex education be taught more effectively?
• Should advanced math classes in high school be replaced with more practical courses on financial literacy and understanding taxes?
• The importance of volunteering in your community 
• The benefits of implementing mindfulness exercises in schools 
• Why high school students should learn financial literacy 
• Should school uniforms be mandatory in all high schools?
• The need for comprehensive sex education in schools 
• Extracurriculars are a waste of time 
• The importance of promoting mental health awareness among teenagers
• Is there any benefit or relevance to teaching Shakespeare to high school students?
• Is it fair to take cell phones away from kids in middle/high school while they are in class?
• Should schools prohibit the use of cell phones on school grounds?
• Should independent learning be offered as a larger option in high school?

College and Career

• Should the cost of college be reduced?
• Are income-share agreements better for students than taking out student loans?
• Should college athletes be paid like professional athletes are?
• Are same-sex colleges beneficial or antiquated?
• Should everyone go to college?
• What are the benefits of taking a gap year before starting college?
• Would removing tenure and job protection from professors improve or reduce the quality of higher education?
• Has the traditional college model become outdated in the age of the Internet?
• Should you pursue a career based on your passions or a career based on earning potential?
• Should colleges use standardized testing in their admissions processes?
• The advantages of studying abroad during college 
• The impact of technology on higher education 
• The benefits of participating in internships during college 
• Why college students should engage in extracurricular activities 
• The importance of developing critical thinking skills in college
• Should Greek life at colleges be abolished?
• Do frats and sororities actually serve their purpose? 
• Is college/university necessary anymore?
• Computer-based learning is the most effective. 
• Gamification and virtual reality are the future of education 
• MCQs are better than essay tests 
• Only main papers should be considered for grading 
• Academics are the only criteria for individual success 
• Rote learning is the best way to get good grades 
• Conceptual clarity beats rote learning 

Good Persuasive Speech Topics about Music

• Why guitar music is superior to everything else
• Metal is modern classical music, and you don’t know it
• Why music makes everything we do easier
• Music is becoming more repetitive, here’s how
• Is modern music really worse than older music?
• Are biographical movies of deceased musicians and artists ethical?
• Digital music should be free to download and listen
• Song lyrics affect our lives in a number of ways
• Should online music be free of charge?
• Lyrics in a song can impact our lives.

Persuasive Speech Topics about the Fashion Industry

• Pop fashion is getting influenced more and more by alternative subcultures
• Clothes don’t define a person, but they help people look at you differently
• How fashion trends differ from one culture to another
• You can’t buy fashion taste no matter how rich you are
• Why are women the leaders in the fashion industry?
• Men shouldn’t wear pink. 
• Eco-fashion is the future. 
• Fashion reveals the true identity 
• Sustainable clothing is the way to go 
• Clothes define a person 
• Jewelry defines your worth 
• Fashion is an important part of society 
• Certain fashion brands have a negative influence on society 
• The fashion industry has the greatest influence on teenagers 
• Celebrity-endorsed fashion brands are the best
• Why are skinny jeans for men even a thing?

Government Politics and Society

• Should voting become mandatory?
• The world needs younger politicians, not 70-year-olds
• What could politicians do to appeal to younger generations of voters?
• Should prisoners have the right to vote?
• Would it be better in the U.S. if elected politicians were younger?
• Should the police use rubber bullets instead of real bullets?
• Are private, for-profit prisons a threat to prisoners’ rights?
• Should U.S. military funding be increased or decreased? 
• Should there be stricter or looser restrictions to qualify for welfare assistance?
• Is our current two-party political system good enough or in need of replacing?
• Should major corporations be eligible for tax breaks?
• How can the current policy on undocumented immigrants in America be improved?
• Should it be illegal for politicians to receive donations from large corporations?
• Should undocumented immigrants have the same employment and education opportunities as citizens?
• Should there be a penalty for people who don’t vote?
• Should everyone be paid a living wage regardless of their employment status?
• Should supremacist groups be able to hold public events?
• Should guns be allowed in public places?
• Should prisoners be allowed to vote?
• Should the government raise or lower the retirement age?
• Can the government promote non-college education for a higher income?
• The problem of spending on biological weapons
• Is the government really taking the right steps to eliminate cultural sensitivity?
• To vote or not to vote: A question asked by a lot of people
• Obesity in children is related to living a fast-paced life. What is the role of the government?
• Getting a driving license: Is one test per lifetime enough?
• Should smokers pay a health tax?
• Is the government spending too much on the military sector?
• Should the government run a campaign to promote cultural diversity and tolerance?
• Should the government be able to control the population?

Persuasive Speech Topics about Ethics

• Is the death penalty ethical?
• Juvenile delinquency is acceptable. 
• Prostitution should be legal. 
• Underage driving should be punishable by law 
• Beauty pageants for children should be banned 
• Prisoner’s right to vote 
• Doctor-assisted suicide should be legal.
• Should we legalize euthanasia?
• Is it ethical to use animals for medical research?
• Is it ethical to allow access to experimental treatments for terminally ill patients?
• Should we allow genetic engineering in humans?
• Is the death penalty obsolete?
• Should we allow the cloning of humans?
• Is wearing fur unethical?
• Should prostitution be legalized?
• What is the solution for the mistreatment of farm and circus animals?
• Should guns be allowed on college campuses?
• Should terminally ill individuals have access to Euthanasia?
• Should people be required to shovel snow from the sidewalks in front of their houses?
• Should product testing on animals be required?
• Should white supremacist groups be allowed to hold rallies in public places?
• Should ethics be taught as a mandatory high school class?
• Should beauty pageants for children be banned?
• Do parents deceive children by telling them about Santa Claus?
• Is it ethical to allow performance-enhancing drugs in sports?
• Voting rights should not be universal 
• Guns should be banned from college campuses 
• The death penalty should be abolished 
• Substance abuse is a cause of social evils 
• Underage alcohol consumption should lead to prison time
• Creating clones of ourselves to serve as organ donors: ethical or not?
• Is it ethical to engineer humans to be better and more optimized than nature intended?
• Is it ethical to create artificial life forms that are capable of complex emotions?
• Racism will always exist no matter how hard we try

Social Issues

• College education: should the government make it free for all?
• Should we provide free healthcare for undocumented immigrants?
• Is physician-assisted suicide morally justifiable?
• Does social media have a negative impact on democracy?
• Does cancel culture impede free speech?
• Does affirmative action help or hinder minority groups in the workplace?
• Should we hold public figures and celebrities to a higher standard of morality?
• Should all public restrooms be all-gender?
• Should the national drinking age be lowered?
• Should paparazzi be banned and unable to sell their photos?
• Should tattoos be regarded as “professional dress” for work?

Social Media

• Should social media platforms ban political ads?
• Do the benefits of social media outweigh the downsides?
• Should the government hold social media companies responsible for hate speech on their platforms?
• Is social media making us more or less social?
• Do platforms like TikTok exacerbate mental health issues in teens?
• Should the government regulate social media to protect citizens’ privacy?
• Is it right for parents to monitor their children’s social media accounts?
• Should social media companies enact a minimum user age restriction?
• Should we require social media companies to protect user data?
• Should we hold social media companies responsible for cyberbullying?
• Should schools ban the use of social media from their networks?
• Media has a negative influence on teenagers 
• Media influences political decisions 
• The impact of social media on mental health and self-esteem 
• The benefits of using social media for networking and professional development 
• The importance of digital literacy and online safety education 
• The role of social media in promoting social and political activism
• The need to practice responsible social media usage 
• Should there be an age limit on social media?
• Should cyberbullying have the same repercussions as in-person bullying?
• Are online relationships as valuable as in-person relationships?
• Does “cancel culture” have a positive or negative impact on societies?
• Are social media platforms reliable information or news sources?
• Should social media be censored?
• Does social media create an unrealistic standard of beauty?
• Is regular social media usage damaging to real-life interactions?

Entertainment (TV Shows, Video Games, and More)

• Reality shows are a source of exploitation 
• Reality shows are anything but real 
• Reality shows are scripted 
• Reality shows dilute important topics of discussion
• TV shows influence human behavior 
• TV shows reflect the society around 
• Reality shows reduce human IQ 
• TV shows are a great source of motivation 
• Are romcoms and erotica series like Fifty Shades of Grey empowering for women?
• Is reading actually more beneficial than watching TV or playing video games?
• Should video games be considered a high form of entertainment?
• Do violent video games encourage players to become violent in real life?
• Are paper books better than e-books?
• Video games cause a lot of stress.
• People who spend their time playing video games are more prone to depression.
• Video games can enhance people’s brain and muscle coordination
• Children who play video games have faster responses
• How will gaming look ten years from now?
• Virtual reality affects people’s perception.
• Living without computers is impossible.
• A video game can be the easiest way to teach kids.
• Watching people playing video games is as fun as watching real sports like football matches.
• Will playing video games cause behavior problems?
• The gaming industry is affecting every aspect of our lives
• Video games are not popular among kids only
• Playing video games with random people online
• Can video games improve problem-solving skills?

Environment and Conservation

• Should fuel-run vehicles be banned?
• How does it benefit nature to reduce human paper consumption?
• What is the biggest current threat to the environment, and how would you suggest we remedy it?
• Should disposable diapers be banned?
• Environmental pollution is a global concern. 
• Developed nations are to blame for global warming 
• The greenhouse effect threatens human existence 
• Limiting the use of natural resources and fossil fuels 
• Should fracking be legal?
• A complete switch to renewable energy is the way to go 
• Using plastic is self-defeating 
• Humans are to blame for environmental degradation 
• What is the best type of renewable energy?
• Should plastic bags be banned in grocery stores?
• Carpooling can save the environment. 
• Noise pollution is detrimental to human development 
• More political and legal measures should be taken to protect the environment
• Businesses have a serious obligation to protect the environment
• There should be a strict policy against polluting the ocean
• Should there be government policies against the use of disposable diapers?
• Recycling paper is going to save our planet
• Are we taking the right measures to get over the global warming issue?
• The Case for a Four-Day Workweek to Reduce Carbon Emissions
• Why Every Neighborhood Should Have a Community Garden
• Banning Plastic Straws: Just the Tip of the Environmental Iceberg
• The Impact of Fast Fashion on Our Planet
• Should Public Transit Be Free to Combat Climate Change?
• The Role of Personal Responsibility in Global Waste Reduction
• The Environmental Cost of Cryptocurrency Mining
• Can we ever live in a truly ‘green’ and environmentally friendly society?
• Should water bottles be banned?
• Are businesses responsible for implementing environmentally friendly production and products?
• Should there be a carbon tax?
• Should electric cars be mandatory in the near future?
• Should we switch over to entirely renewable energy?
• Do low-income families have the same duties to be eco-conscious as high-income families do? Should plastic bags and single-use plastic be completely banned?
• Should car racing be banned?
• Should fast fashion be banned?
• Should offshore drilling be allowed in protected marine areas?

Conservation of Animals and Animal Rights

• Should it be okay to own exotic animals as pets?
• Should hunting be made illegal?
• Keeping an animal away from its home will affect the environmental balance
• Should animal testing be illegal?
• Should people be allowed to own pit bulls?
• Should people be allowed to own exotic animals like tigers and monkeys?
• Should "animal selfies" in tourist locations with well-known animal species (like koalas and tigers) be allowed?
• Should puppy mills be banned?
• Should zoos and animal theme parks (such as SeaWorld) be closed?
• There should be strict penalties to protect endangered species 
• Urban Beekeeping: A Solution to Declining Bee Populations
• What is better: Buying pets or Adoption?
• Why is Elephant riding unethical?
• Should there be a ban on animal testing?
• Testing products on animals: is it ethical or not?
• Is it right to keep animals in zoos?
• Should we use products made with animal fur?
• Euthanizing stray animals: is it ethical?
• Can a companion or service animal change someone’s life?
• Is it rational to be scared of harmless yet frightening or unusual animals?
• Keeping wild and exotic pets away from their natural habitat. Is it ethical?
• Should we spay pets to control their overpopulation?
• Keeping uncommon animals at home. Is it good for them?
• Ten ways we can help animals live better

Great Persuasive Speech Topics about Family 

• Should children have the right to virtual and physical privacy from their parents?
• “It takes a village to raise a child.” How important is a community in raising children?
• Should we require parents to vaccinate their children?
• Should we require companies to give mandatory paternal and maternal leave?
• Is it better for a young child to attend daycare or stay home with a parent?
• Should children be told to believe in Santa Claus and the Tooth Fairy?
• Should the government limit how many children a couple can have?
• Is spanking children an acceptable form of discipline?
• The benefits of family meals and regular family time 
• The importance of open communication within families 
• The impact of divorce on children and ways to support them 
• The benefits of spending quality time with grandparents 
• The role of parental involvement in a child’s education
• Nature vs. nurture—which is the most powerful influence on a person’s character?
• Should parents have to give approval in order for their minor children to receive birth control?
• How does learning about family ancestors impact you in the present and future?
• Should parents teach their kids about sex, or is it the responsibility of the school system?
• What is the most beneficial parenting style, and why?
• How to run a business with your family?
• Should children and teens be worried more about their privacy or safety?
• Can video games be used in educating children and teens?
• Having an older/younger sibling. The perks and the challenges
• Is internet censorship for kids a must?
• Children will still read books if they are interesting enough
• The Benefits of Family Game Night on Child Development
• Should Parents Limit Screen Time or Control Content?
• The Importance of Teaching Financial Literacy at Home
• Family Meals: A Solution to Better Communication and Health
• The Role of Grandparents in Modern Family Structures
• Balancing Work and Family: A Modern Dilemma
• Encouraging Children to Participate in Household Chores

Persuasive Speech Topics about Religion

• Should cults receive protection under freedom of religion?
• What are the benefits of belonging to a religious community?
• Should parents force their children to go to church or let them decide for themselves?
• Studying religion is a motivational act
• Awesome stories about the ancient gods and goddesses
• Should the religious slaughter of animals be banned?
• How to overcome conflicts and arguments between people who believe in different religions?
• Should the argument that God exists be discussed in a classroom?
• Emotional stories from the Bible can help people renew their belief
• New age spirituality: A fact or a myth
• Current vs. ancient interpretations of the Bible
• Children should be allowed to choose their religion
• Should religious organizations be required to pay taxes?
• Is atheism a problem of the 21st century?
• Should religion be taught as a high school subject?
• Should the Church of Scientology be exempt from paying taxes?
• Should religious leaders be involved in politics?
• Should priests be allowed to get married?
• Should women be allowed to be priests?
• Should public prayer be allowed in schools?
• Should countries be allowed to only accept refugees with certain religious beliefs?
• Should students sing Christmas carols, say the pledge of allegiance, or perform other tangentially religious activities?
• Should nuns and priests become genderless roles?
• Should schools and other public buildings have prayer rooms?
• Should animal sacrifice be legal if it occurs in a religious context?
• Should countries be allowed to impose a national religion on their citizens?
• Should the church be separated from the state?
• Does freedom of religion positively or negatively affect societies?

Science and Technology

• Should we allow parents to choose their children’s physical attributes through genetic engineering?
• Will robots reduce or increase human employment opportunities?
• Does technology make kids lazy?
• What age should children be allowed to have a cell phone?
• Does electronic use make people less creative?
• Is Net Neutrality a good thing or a bad thing?
• Should human cloning be allowed?
• Should self-driving cars be legal?
• Should genetically modified foods be sold in grocery stores?
• Should parents be allowed to choose the sex of their unborn children?
• Should vaccinations be required for students to attend public school?
• Should the US government increase NASA's budget?
• Should Pluto still be considered a planet?
• Are search engines replacing libraries?
• Should all new buildings be energy efficient?
• What is the influence of technology on humanity’s future?
• Should all workplaces offer hybrid/remote work?
• Should we pursue Artificial Intelligence?
• Should tech companies regulate the development of AI systems and automation to protect humans’ jobs?
• Should we limit screen time for children?
• Is it ethical for AI models like Dall-E to train themselves on artists’ work without the artists’ permission?
• Should the government regulate the use of personal drones?
• Is mass surveillance ethical? Does its threat to civil liberties outweigh its benefits?
• Are virtual reality experiences a valuable educational tool?
• Do the positive effects of powerful AI systems outweigh the risks?
• Do voice assistants like Siri and Alexa invade individuals’ privacy?
• Are cell phone bans in the classroom effective for improving student learning?
• Does the use of facial recognition technology in public violate individuals’ privacy?
• Do we need to put resources into traveling to space?
• Should parents monitor their children’s online activity?
• Is it okay for phones to use facial recognition and fingerprint technology?
• Is technology actually addicting?
• Can we blame technology for increased stress and anxiety?
• Are security cameras and body cameras an invasion of privacy? 
• Should the internet be surveilled or managed?
• Should video game chats be surveilled or even banned?
• Are machines replacing human labor? 
• Should cloning be outlawed/banned?
• Spending money to explore space is going to improve life for humans
• The scientific world is changing way too fast
• Which renewable energy option would the US do best to invest in?
• Should the US prioritize space exploration over domestic initiatives?
• Should companies with a high carbon footprint be punished?
• Should the FDA ban GMOs?
• Would the world be a safer place without nuclear weapons?
• Does AI pose a greater threat to humanity than it does the potential for advancement?
• Are electric cars really better for the environment?
• Google is the death of libraries 
•  Social media is an end of face-to-face conversations  
• AI is the future of technology 
• Technology is changing our lives 
• Limiting screen time for adults 
• The government should regulate internet usage 
• Technology has made life better 
• Internet chat rooms are not safe 
• Humans are addicted to technology 
• Internet fraud awareness: Must for cybersecurity 

Convincing Speech Topics for Business

• The importance of people’s skills for the success of your business
• Are introverts better entrepreneurs?
• How can a mentor affect your success as an entrepreneur?
• Understanding your position in the market. How can it affect your current and future business plan?
• Social media is going to affect your marketing plan
• Why should you go after your passion in business?
• Starting a successful business with no money
• The value of unorthodox business ideas
• Using feedback from unhappy customers to enhance your sales
• The importance of delegation
• Employers ask for their employees’ social media accounts. Is it right or wrong?
• Employers shouldn’t ask questions related to an employee’s personal life
• Most businesses advertise the same way and lack boldness
• Brilliant ways to make money in the 21st century

Ideas of Persuasive Speech Topics about Sports

• Should colleges pay student-athletes?
• Should we ban violent contact sports like boxing and MMA?
• Should sports leagues require professional athletes to stand during the national anthem?
• Should sports teams ban players like Kyrie Irving when they spread misinformation or hate speech?
• Should high schools require their athletes to maintain a certain GPA?
• Should the Olympic Committee allow transgender athletes to compete?
• Should high schools ban football due to its safety risks to players?
• Sports can boost learning effectiveness
• Competitive sports teach us a lot about life
• Why we should consider gamers as professional athletes
• Reasons why women's sports don’t get that much attention
• Football is a dangerous sport.
• Why are sports so popular globally?
• Why is soccer the most popular sport in the world?
• Everyone likes sports; they just haven’t found the one they like
• Physical training is objectively good for everyone
• How performance-enhancing drugs are used in professional sports
• Why are professional athletes paid so well
• Is it ethical to sell/buy players in sports?
• Are the Olympics still the most important sports event?
• Studying martial arts is good for the mind and health.

Health and Medicine

• Using genetically modified foods is bad for our health
• Using painkillers is not healthy
• The power of crystal healing can improve our mental and physical health
• Cancer is the most important disease that doctors should research now
• How your diet can cause the onset of different health conditions
• Using supplements should be controlled
• Coming up with guidelines that control stem cell research
• How can science be used to improve the lives of physically challenged individuals?
• A migraine is usually overlooked at school or in the workplace
• Alternative medication: The truth and the myths
• Infertility in couples is related to stress and unhealthy lifestyles
• Mental health issues affect the whole of society
• The food industry is the reason behind obesity
• Everyone should donate blood at least once a year
• How to overcome back pain? Different treatment options
• Using a mouthwash after brushing your teeth is essential for your dental health
• Do cell phones affect our brains?
• Non-smokers should be first on the organ transplant lists
• Is biohacking good for your health?
• Diet beverages do not actually make you lose weight
• Using the right amount of salt in your food is going to affect your health
• Keeping your immune system strong is a must
• How to save lives: The answer is organ donation
• Should minors be able to purchase birth control without their parent's consent?
• Conventional vs organic produce: does it really make a difference in your health?
• Should governments tax soda and other sugary drinks and use the revenue for public health?
• Should we teach yoga and meditation in public schools?
• Should high schools provide free condoms to students?
• Should massages be seen as necessities rather than luxuries?
• Should hiding or lying about your HIV status with someone you're sleeping with be illegal?
• Keto vs. Paleo vs. Vegan: which diet is better?
• Should a patient be allowed to deny medical care?
• Should the US switch to single-payer health care?
• Top things to do in order to improve the way your body and brain function
• Why Every Adult Needs a Nap Time Just Like Kindergarten
• The Art of Procrastination: Why It’s a Skill, Not a Flaw
• How Being Lazy Can Actually Make You More Efficient
• Why We Should Have a National 'Talk Like a Pirate' Day
• The Conspiracy Theory That Socks Disappear in the Dryer
• Pets Should Have Social Media Accounts: The Pros
• Why Teenagers Should Give Technology Advice to Adults
• Coffee vs. Tea: The Ultimate Showdown for Morning Supremacy
• How Horoscopes Can Solve All Your Work and Love Troubles
• Why We Should Elect a Cat as the Next President
• Should universal health care be freely given to everyone? 
• Should soda and candy be banned from school campuses?
• Should tobacco products be completely banned in America?
• Is a plant-based diet better than a meat-based diet?
• Should addiction counseling and treatment be covered by health insurance?
• Would taxing fast food help combat obesity?
• Should we ban all genetically modified foods?
• What would be the benefits of making all birth control methods (e.g. condoms, the pill) free of charge?
• Should homeopathic and alternative medical treatments be covered by health insurance?
• Should we do away with the minimum wage? Why or why not?
• Is it ethical for companies to use unpaid internships as a source of labor?
• Does the gig economy benefit or harm workers?
• Is capitalism the best economic system?
• Is it ethical for companies to use sweatshops in developing countries?
• Should the government provide free healthcare for all citizens?
• Should the government regulate prices on pharmaceutical drugs?
• Should the government enact a universal base income?
• Brexit will fuel the UK economy 
• There should be no minimum wage 
• Political unrest decelerates economic growth 
• You need to start saving for retirement now.
• Economics as a discipline must be mandatory 
• The economic growth of China is a model to follow 
• Free trade agreements are bad for labor 
• The economy is defined by a few rich industrialists 
• Foreign labor slows down the economy 
• Import duty should be removed 
• Exports boost economic growth

Funny and Easy Persuasive Speech Topics

• Should we allow pets to run for public office?
• Does pineapple belong on pizza?
• Would students benefit from schools swapping out desks with more comfortable seating arrangements (i.e., bean bag chairs and couches)?
• Is procrastination the key to success?
• Should Americans adopt British accents to sound more intelligent?
• The age-old dilemma: cats or dogs?
• Should meme creators receive royalties when their memes go viral?
• Is the movie ranking system an effective way to evaluate the appropriateness of films?
• Should the government place a “health tax” on junk food?
• Should parents let children choose their own names?
• Should we adopt a universal language to communicate with people from all countries?
• We are living better than ever, but we still complain
• The prison system doesn’t create better humans
• Being untidy doesn’t make you creative or special
• We should have a royal family.
• Bigfoot is real.
• Bitcoin and other digital currencies are the future
• Spending time with your grandparents
• Texting while driving should be illegal
• Using single-use plastic containers should be banned
• School days should start later in the day
• Immigration laws should be more lenient
• Living with refugees from other countries
• Students should be able to pick their schools
• Should a student be allowed to skip school if they want to?
• Paying more taxes: Is it a good or a bad thing?
• Should human beings control the weather?
• Blaming your younger sibling for the mess you made
• Which music is your mind playing in the background during intense situations?
• Just because we have opinions doesn’t mean they are valuable
• Putting an Instagram filter on your selfie doesn’t make you a photographer
• Why do stuff when you can play video games?
• “Be a musician,” they said, but nobody came to my gig
• Did you do something wrong? Blame it on your zodiac sign
• I have plans for the weekend! sleep and watch movies
• It's important to grow things in a garden.

Frequently Asked Questions

1) what are some easy persuasive speech topics.

Choosing a topic is relative for everyone. Our advice is if you have a specific interest, choosing that as a persuasive speech topic may be easier for you. In other case, here are three topics that are easy and interesting to make a presentation on:

2) What are some examples of persuasive speech topics for students and teens?

As students spend most of their time in school, it may be easier to make a persuasive speech about revisions to school policies. All your classmates and teachers surely will understand you! Here are our recommendations:

3) What are some persuasive essay topics?

In our list above, you can find 700+ persuasive speech topics! After, create your slide with Decktopus . Decktopus will not only create a slide for you but also fill the slide with appropriate text, graphs, and images! 

4) What are some persuasive speech topics for school and college?

Considering a topic that includes schools and/or colleges may be a good idea for you! Your audience will mostly consist of peers, fellow classmates, and teachers, who are all familiar with the school environment. For college, consider these topics: 

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Speech And Debate

Persuasive Speech Topics

Last updated on: Nov 20, 2023

Persuasive Speech Topics - 150+ Topics for Students

By: Cordon J.

11 min read

Reviewed By: Melisa C.

Published on: Sep 22, 2020

Finding perfect persuasive speech topics for  writing a speech  can be challenging. Since the students have to keep in mind their interest level and the interest of the audience.

However, it’s not impossible.

Unique and compelling topic ideas can play an important role in engaging and persuading the audience.

On this Page

What is a Persuasive Speech?

A persuasive speech aims to educate the audience about a particular topic. The main purpose of a persuasive speech is to convince your audience of your points of view.

When writing a persuasive essay, the most important thing to remember is the selection of the topic. You can write about an idea that will engage your audience and would be interesting for them.

The persuasive speech topics should be bold and should serve the purpose of your speech. This will also help them understand your purpose for writing the piece in the first place.

Persuasive Speech Topics for Students

• Should we give away the pet that harmed someone else?
• Should we use horses for transportation in the city?
• Reasons for not keeping forest animals as pets.
• Should drivers apply for a driver’s license know how to drive a manual automobile?
• Advertisements should be changed; they play with our minds.
• Should animal selfies in tourist locations be allowed?
• Should animal slaughter for religious purposes be allowed?
• Self-driving cars: legal or not?
• Should plastic bags at grocery stores still be used?
• Should NASA’s budget be increased?

Discover Captivating Topics in a Click!

Persuasive Speech Topics for University Students

• How to procrastinate to avoid work?
• Why do men consider women to be not funny?
• College parking should be added to the tuition fee.
• Do vegetarians really love animals?
• How can you get someone to stop being annoying?
• Medical experiments shouldn’t be done on animals.
• It isn’t ethical to date your coworker.
• Women getting paid less is justified
• Child pornography laws should be improved and made much stricter.
• The Kardashians are more influential than the president.

Persuasive Speech Topics for College Students

• Ipads and tablets should replace textbooks and other college books.
• Students should always take detailed notes during a lecture.
• College students should attend all lectures and not skip classes.
• Students must be careful about what they post on social media.
• Elderly people are at more risk for identity theft.
• Students should consider opting for their passion as their major.
• Taking a gap year is an intelligent choice.
• Students should take summer classes to get ahead of schedule.
• Students should enhance their vocabulary and not rely on auto-correct.
• Can the internet crash worldwide?

Persuasive Speech Topics for High School

• Community service should be compulsory for everyone.
• Is it okay to get your pet neutered?
• Should school field trips be within the same city or country?
• Exams shouldn’t be introduced until College.
• Palm oil: good or bad?
• Is education in prison any good?
• Disposable diapers are dangerous for the environment, thus must be banned.
• Young adults and children should be kept away from chat rooms on the internet.
• Should all kids be taught how to cook?
• Should C++ be eliminated from the face of the earth?

Persuasive Speech Topics for Kids

• Boxing should be legal.
• Playing instruments in school should be a part of teaching.
• Kids required to learn basic essay writing skills
• Fangirls don’t know anything about sports.
• Athletes should be careful with how they spend their money.
• Public schools should not restrict kids from wearing a uniform.
• How to convince your mom to bake pizza for you
• Comparing Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi is foolish.
• How to convince your dad to buy you Xbox
• We should have a six months summer break twice a year.

Good Persuasive Speech Topics

• Does consuming coffee cause any harm?
• Plastic surgery is becoming a habit instead of a medical procedure.
• Social networks cause more damage than good.
• The free media should be controlled.
• Lack of financial education is a real problem in society.
• Therapy depends on the patients’ dedication.
• The death penalty should be banned.
• Surrogacy should be promoted more.
• How has Artificial Intelligence improved our daily lives?
• Men are unable to understand women.

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That's our Job!

Persuasive Speech Topics About Mental Health

• Genetically modified foods have a bad effect on people’s mental health.
• People experiencing mental health problems should not be considered mad.
• Mental health problems are nothing to be ashamed of.
• Ten effective ways to prevent mental health
• Working out at home isn’t effective.
• People shouldn’t be mean towards the opponent team.
• What are the five most common mental health problems?
• You should not be rude towards others.
• A bipolar patient should be treated with care.
• People with autism can lead healthy and normal life.

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics

• Same-sex schools are better than co-ed school systems.
• Parents should go through their kid’s belongings daily to look for drugs.
• Teenage kids shouldn’t be given birth control pills without their parents' permission.
• Students involved in cyberbullying should be expelled from school.
• Kids under the age of 17 should have a 9 PM curfew.
• It should be mandatory that kids should learn a second language.
• Children of single parents are not confident.
• One child policy should be implemented to control the population.
• Breastfeeding in public places should be allowed.
• There should be free WiFi in public places.

Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics

• Are internet relationships beneficial for college students?
• Women and men have different perspectives on love and relationships.
• Is it possible to maintain a long-distance relationship?
• Should you live with your fiancé before marriage?
• Teens should have more freedom of using cell phones.
• Jealousy can destroy all relationships, no matter how strong.
• Why is it challenging to break up with dishonest partners these days?
• Counseling is a great solution for handling damaged relationships.
• Men cheat more in comparison to women.
• The secret to having a fruitful relationship is intimacy.

Sports Persuasive Speech Topics

• Are gaming consoles and violent video games hurting the youth?
• Men are competing against women.
• Athletes should be made to take a drug test frequently.
• Gender shouldn’t matter in sports.
• Should Male and female athletes be paid equally?
• Should marching band be considered a sport?
• Parental pressure and its effect on athletic kids.
• Should swimming be taught to every student in school?
• Should boxing be made illegal?
• Cheerleading should not be considered a sport.

Persuasive Speech Topics on Health and Fitness

• Preventing and treating violence against children.
• Solutions and reasons for mental illness in society.
• How do various genres of music affect the brain?
• Depression impacts the immune system of a person.
• How does insomnia impact overall health?
• Is there an alternative to animal testing?
• The significance of placebos in medicine.
• The pros and cons of medical marijuana.
• Is it safe for children to become vegetarians?
• Fast food is the major reason for obesity among children.

Funny Persuasive Speech Topics

• Playing it by the rules is boring and for losers.
• Acting on your rage shouldn’t be a thing.
• Having a cupcake in both hands is a perfect example of a balanced diet.
• Growing up is an option.
• Being honest with your parents can get you in trouble.
• Girls are as smart as boys.
• Life is a test with no preparation and retakes.
• There is no such thing as love at first sight.
• Pick-up lines can come in handy at times.
• Christmas is a pagan holiday, not a Christian one.

Controversial Persuasive Speech Topics

• Can money buy happiness?
• Have we lost the art of listening?
• Does kindness make the world a better place?
• Should people keep their complaints to themselves?
• What is more important: talent or hard work?
• When should you compromise?
• Can society be moral without religion?
• Violent video games create aggressive teenagers.
• Can the government be trusted?
• Should world leaders place morality above all else?

Persuasive Speech Topics about Environment

• Solutions for reducing the impact of global warming.
• Is it possible to handle the population explosion?
• How do humans destroy forests?
• The potential dangers of GMO food.
• Is it safe to utilize nuclear power?
• Can flood impact be predicted?
• Previously undiscussed impacts of earthquakes.
• How can minimizing paper waste help to preserve trees?
• Fossil fuels are ruining the atmosphere.
• Exotic animals should be allowed to live in their natural habitat.

Unique Persuasive Speech Topics

• What is happening in the field of space exploration?
• Why is Pluto not a planet?
• The United States should make further technological advancements.
• Should Apple Music always be free?
• Too much screen time will make children lazy.
• Why are people so addicted to the internet?
• How is deforestation impacting the planet?
• High school students should be taught a foreign language.
• How can we expand renewable energy on a global scale?
• Assisted suicide should be allowed for terminally ill patients.

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Informative Persuasive Speech Topics

• Should you go after your passion for business with little experience?
• Is the history of the Bible correct?
• Why is driving a sports car not practical for everyday use?
• Transgender people should be allowed to join the military.
• Is preschool necessary?
• Is it ethical to pay a surrogate?
• Why is alien abduction real?
• Anime should be taught at school.
• The main cause of obesity in America is the fast-food industry.
• Pink should be a gender-neutral color.

Simple Persuasive Speech Topics

• Libraries should be closed down, and everyone should get unlimited access to e-books.
• Can you really trust a therapist?
• Love plays the greatest role in our lives.
• How important is the brand name for their success?
• Polygamy should be banned everywhere.
• Schools should not have physical punishments.
• Assigning a police officer at every club can decrease drinking while driving.
• Netflix is the reason for eyesight problems in young adults today.
• Can looks impact your success in life?
• Minors shouldn’t be allowed to work in the fashion industry.

General Persuasive Speech Topics

• Facts that prove there’s life on other planets.
• Is it possible for humans to survive on Mars?
• China’s government shouldn’t put restrictions on the number of kids a couple can have.
• Distance learning should replace traditional schools.
• Can clones replace actual humans?
• Is acupuncture a valid medical technique?
• Self-driving cars should be legal.
• Factory farming should be banned.
• How do puppy mills affect us?
• Entry to museums should be free.

What are Good Persuasive Speech Topics?

It is important to know the criteria for good persuasive speech topics if you want to write on an interesting and engaging topic.

The first step is to look for something that you find compelling.

You have to research your topic to write an impressive and persuasive speech. It will be easier if your selected speech idea matches your interest level.

Secondly, the audience is also equally important.

Who is this speech for? Is it for your peers and your instructor?

Once you identify your audience, you will be better equipped to write your speech. Think about how you can make your speech relatable yet unique.

Choosing a topic that is too simple might be a mistake. The reason is that it may cause your audience to lose interest in what you are saying. If you choose a common topic for your speech, then use a different angle for this. You can explain it from a different perspective to your audience.

Since it is not something new, some unique information will be interesting. Research is crucial to know what catchy and fun persuasive speech topics you want to write about. The research will also allow you to write well and appear well informed about your subject.

Being familiar with your subject matter will allow you to write it in a better way. This aspect is really important to convince your audience.

Now that you have explored the list of our best public speaking persuasive speech topics, you can choose one for your speech. Select a topic that will help you to write an engaging, outstanding, and impressive speech.

Once you have decided on a topic to talk about, polish your skills by learning some important factors of persuasive speech. Start writing your speech and make an impressive public appearance.

If you feel that you do not have enough skills for writing your persuasive speech, you can hire professional help. You can provide your topic of interest to the essay writers. They will conduct research and write a persuasive speech for you.

The essay writers at  5StarEssays.com  will provide you with the best persuasive speech that will help you impress your audience. Our  write my essay  website is the one that you need for writing an impressive speech.

Or if you are in a but of a hurry, we have AI powered essay writer for your help that can help you generate a speech within 90 seconds!

Cordon. is a published author and writing specialist. He has worked in the publishing industry for many years, providing writing services and digital content. His own writing career began with a focus on literature and linguistics, which he continues to pursue. Cordon is an engaging and professional individual, always looking to help others achieve their goals.

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Persuasive Speech Outline, with Examples

March 17, 2021 - Gini Beqiri

A persuasive speech is a speech that is given with the intention of convincing the audience to believe or do something. This could be virtually anything – voting, organ donation, recycling, and so on.

A successful persuasive speech effectively convinces the audience to your point of view, providing you come across as trustworthy and knowledgeable about the topic you’re discussing.

So, how do you start convincing a group of strangers to share your opinion? And how do you connect with them enough to earn their trust?

Topics for your persuasive speech

We’ve made a list of persuasive speech topics you could use next time you’re asked to give one. The topics are thought-provoking and things which many people have an opinion on.

When using any of our persuasive speech ideas, make sure you have a solid knowledge about the topic you’re speaking about – and make sure you discuss counter arguments too.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• All school children should wear a uniform
• Facebook is making people more socially anxious
• It should be illegal to drive over the age of 80
• Lying isn’t always wrong
• The case for organ donation

Read our full list of  75 persuasive speech topics and ideas .

Preparation: Consider your audience

As with any speech, preparation is crucial. Before you put pen to paper, think about what you want to achieve with your speech. This will help organise your thoughts as you realistically can only cover 2-4 main points before your  audience get bored .

It’s also useful to think about who your audience are at this point. If they are unlikely to know much about your topic then you’ll need to factor in context of your topic when planning the structure and length of your speech. You should also consider their:

• Cultural or religious backgrounds
• Shared concerns, attitudes and problems
• Shared interests, beliefs and hopes
• Baseline attitude – are they hostile, neutral, or open to change?

The factors above will all determine the approach you take to writing your speech. For example, if your topic is about childhood obesity, you could begin with a story about your own children or a shared concern every parent has. This would suit an audience who are more likely to be parents than young professionals who have only just left college.

Remember the 3 main approaches to persuade others

There are three main approaches used to persuade others:

The ethos approach appeals to the audience’s ethics and morals, such as what is the ‘right thing’ to do for humanity, saving the environment, etc.

Pathos persuasion is when you appeal to the audience’s emotions, such as when you  tell a story  that makes them the main character in a difficult situation.

The logos approach to giving a persuasive speech is when you appeal to the audience’s logic – ie. your speech is essentially more driven by facts and logic. The benefit of this technique is that your point of view becomes virtually indisputable because you make the audience feel that only your view is the logical one.

• Ethos, Pathos, Logos: 3 Pillars of Public Speaking and Persuasion

Ideas for your persuasive speech outline

1. structure of your persuasive speech.

The opening and closing of speech are the most important. Consider these carefully when thinking about your persuasive speech outline. A  strong opening  ensures you have the audience’s attention from the start and gives them a positive first impression of you.

You’ll want to  start with a strong opening  such as an attention grabbing statement, statistic of fact. These are usually dramatic or shocking, such as:

Sadly, in the next 18 minutes when I do our chat, four Americans that are alive will be dead from the food that they eat – Jamie Oliver

Another good way of starting a persuasive speech is to include your audience in the picture you’re trying to paint. By making them part of the story, you’re embedding an emotional connection between them and your speech.

You could do this in a more toned-down way by talking about something you know that your audience has in common with you. It’s also helpful at this point to include your credentials in a persuasive speech to gain your audience’s trust.

Obama would spend hours with his team working on the opening and closing statements of his speech.

2. Stating your argument

You should  pick between 2 and 4 themes  to discuss during your speech so that you have enough time to explain your viewpoint and convince your audience to the same way of thinking.

It’s important that each of your points transitions seamlessly into the next one so that your speech has a logical flow. Work on your  connecting sentences  between each of your themes so that your speech is easy to listen to.

Your argument should be backed up by objective research and not purely your subjective opinion. Use examples, analogies, and stories so that the audience can relate more easily to your topic, and therefore are more likely to be persuaded to your point of view.

3. Addressing counter-arguments

Any balanced theory or thought  addresses and disputes counter-arguments  made against it. By addressing these, you’ll strengthen your persuasive speech by refuting your audience’s objections and you’ll show that you are knowledgeable to other thoughts on the topic.

When describing an opposing point of view, don’t explain it in a bias way – explain it in the same way someone who holds that view would describe it. That way, you won’t irritate members of your audience who disagree with you and you’ll show that you’ve reached your point of view through reasoned judgement. Simply identify any counter-argument and pose explanations against them.

• Complete Guide to Debating

4. Closing your speech

Your closing line of your speech is your last chance to convince your audience about what you’re saying. It’s also most likely to be the sentence they remember most about your entire speech so make sure it’s a good one!

The most effective persuasive speeches end  with a  call to action . For example, if you’ve been speaking about organ donation, your call to action might be asking the audience to register as donors.

Practice answering AI questions on your speech and get  feedback on your performance .

If audience members ask you questions, make sure you listen carefully and respectfully to the full question. Don’t interject in the middle of a question or become defensive.

You should show that you have carefully considered their viewpoint and refute it in an objective way (if you have opposing opinions). Ensure you remain patient, friendly and polite at all times.

Example 1: Persuasive speech outline

This example is from the Kentucky Community and Technical College.

Specific purpose

To persuade my audience to start walking in order to improve their health.

Central idea

Regular walking can improve both your mental and physical health.

Introduction

Let’s be honest, we lead an easy life: automatic dishwashers, riding lawnmowers, T.V. remote controls, automatic garage door openers, power screwdrivers, bread machines, electric pencil sharpeners, etc., etc. etc. We live in a time-saving, energy-saving, convenient society. It’s a wonderful life. Or is it?

Continue reading

Example 2: Persuasive speech

Tips for delivering your persuasive speech

• Practice, practice, and practice some more . Record yourself speaking and listen for any nervous habits you have such as a nervous laugh, excessive use of filler words, or speaking too quickly.
• Show confident body language . Stand with your legs hip width apart with your shoulders centrally aligned. Ground your feet to the floor and place your hands beside your body so that hand gestures come freely. Your audience won’t be convinced about your argument if you don’t sound confident in it. Find out more about  confident body language here .
• Don’t memorise your speech word-for-word  or read off a script. If you memorise your persuasive speech, you’ll sound less authentic and panic if you lose your place. Similarly, if you read off a script you won’t sound genuine and you won’t be able to connect with the audience by  making eye contact . In turn, you’ll come across as less trustworthy and knowledgeable. You could simply remember your key points instead, or learn your opening and closing sentences.
• Remember to use facial expressions when storytelling  – they make you more relatable. By sharing a personal story you’ll more likely be speaking your truth which will help you build a connection with the audience too. Facial expressions help bring your story to life and transport the audience into your situation.
• Keep your speech as concise as possible . When practicing the delivery, see if you can edit it to have the same meaning but in a more succinct way. This will keep the audience engaged.

The best persuasive speech ideas are those that spark a level of controversy. However, a public speech is not the time to express an opinion that is considered outside the norm. If in doubt, play it safe and stick to topics that divide opinions about 50-50.

Bear in mind who your audience are and plan your persuasive speech outline accordingly, with researched evidence to support your argument. It’s important to consider counter-arguments to show that you are knowledgeable about the topic as a whole and not bias towards your own line of thought.

Persuasive Speech

Persuasive Speech Topics

Good Persuasive Speech Topics & Ideas for Debaters

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Are you stuck searching for persuasive speech ideas that will truly grab your audience's attention? You're not alone.

Picture this: You're tasked with delivering a speech, and you're worried about making it memorable. The problem? Finding the right topic.

Fear not! We've gathered a number of persuasive speech topics, neatly categorized for your convenience. Whether it's for a competition or a project, we've got the right topics for you.

So let’s dive into the topics!

• 1. What is a Persuasive Speech?
• 2. Persuasive Speech Topics for Students
• 3. Science and Technology Persuasive Speech Topics
• 4. Environment Persuasive Speech Topics
• 5. Health and Medicine Persuasive Speech Topics
• 6. Mental Health Persuasive Speech Topics
• 7. Bioethics Persuasive Speech Topics
• 8. Economy and Work Persuasive Speech Topics
• 9. Persuasive Speech Topics About Media
• 10. Persuasive Speech Topics About Government and International Relations
• 11. Policy Speech Topics for Students
• 12. Law and Politics Persuasive Speech Topics
• 13. Persuasive Speech Topics on Business
• 14. Public Speaking Persuasive Speech Topics
• 15. Arts and Culture Persuasive Speech Topics
• 16. Religion Persuasive Speech Topics
• 17. Sports Persuasive Speech Topics
• 18. Persuasive Speech Topics About Automotive
• 19. Persuasive Speech Topics About Travel 
• 20. Persuasive Speech Topics About Music & Fashion
• 21. Easy Persuasive Speech Topics About Education
• 22. Persuasive Speech Topics About Workplace
• 23. Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics
• 24. Funny Persuasive Speech Topics
• 25. Persuasive Speech Topics About Animals
• 26. Controversial Persuasive Speech Topics
• 27. What Makes A Good Persuasive Speech Topic?
• 28. How To Create And Deliver A Compelling Persuasive Speech

What is a Persuasive Speech?

A persuasive speech aims to influence or convince an audience to adopt a specific viewpoint or take a particular course of action. It's all about using words to sway opinions, inspire change, and ignite a spark of conviction in the minds of listeners.

Components of a Great Persuasive Speech Topic

When crafting a persuasive speech, it's crucial to consider the three fundamental elements that make a topic truly compelling that are;   ethos pathos, and logos :

• Ethos: Establish your credibility and trustworthiness as a speaker. Your audience needs to believe that you are knowledgeable, sincere, and reliable in your stance.
• Pathos: Appeal to the emotions and empathy of your listeners. A persuasive topic should evoke feelings and resonate with the audience on a personal level.
• Logos: Build a logical and rational argument. Provide sound reasoning, evidence, and facts to support your position, ensuring that your audience can follow your line of thought.

Incorporating these elements into your speech topic will help you connect with your audience and effectively convey your message with conviction and impact.

Watch this video to learn how to organize a persuasive speech!

Persuasive Speech Topics for Students

Wondering what some good topics for a persuasive speech are? 

It can be hard to choose a perfect topic for your speech. But don’t worry, we have done the hard work for you. Just keep reading this blog, and you will get to know what are the good topics for persuasive speech.

Unique Persuasive Speech Topics for University Students

• Graffiti is the art of the future.
• A helmet is necessary for bike riders.
• People should not use their phones while driving.
• Easy steps for staying happy and healthy.
• Money can’t buy happiness.
• Wild animals should be tamed.
• Why we should have a balanced diet.
• Benefits of exercise. 
• Why should Black Friday sales start on Thanksgiving?
• We should learn from the wisdom of our elders.

Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics for College Students

• College education should be free for students belonging to low-income families.
• Psychological issues can never justify mass shootings.
• Following one’s comfort level is more important than the following fashion.
• Bragging about expensive possessions depicts immorality.
• The tax rate should be double for rich people.
• College students should be regularly provided with mental health counseling.
• Classrooms should have background music to help the students focus on learning in a better manner.
• Should athletes be paid less? 
• Cell phones should not be allowed in classrooms.
• People should not be allowed to change their names after high school.

Best Persuasive Speech Topics for High School Students

• Exchange programs make the students more appreciative of the world and different communities.
• Working part-time on weekends should be compulsory for teenagers.
• Introverts are the best motivational speakers.
• Modern youth have developed addictive personalities.
• Religious discussions should not be allowed in schools.
• Students should learn at least three foreign languages.
• Writing research papers is a better way of learning than tests.
• Money cannot ensure happiness.
• Positive thinking makes life easier and happier.
• Violent video games should be banned in the United States.

Science and Technology Persuasive Speech Topics

• The ethics of artificial intelligence.
• The impact of 5G technology.
• Space exploration and its value.
• Climate change mitigation technologies.
• Privacy in the digital age.
• The future of renewable energy.
• Genetic engineering and ethical dilemmas.
• Cybersecurity in the modern world.
• The impact of social media on society.
• The role of technology in education.

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That's our Job!

Environment Persuasive Speech Topics

• The importance of recycling.
• Protecting endangered species.
• Reducing plastic waste.
• The impact of deforestation.
• Promoting sustainable agriculture.
• The need for clean energy.
• Combating air pollution.
• Conserving water resources.
• The urgency of addressing climate change.
• Preserving natural habitats.

Health and Medicine Persuasive Speech Topics

• The importance of vaccination.
• Mental health awareness.
• The benefits of organic food.
• Healthcare for all.
• The opioid crisis.
• The impact of fast food on health.
• The need for more organ donors.
• Alternative medicine options.
• Obesity and its effects.
• Access to affordable healthcare.

Mental Health Persuasive Speech Topics

• Organic foods are good for health.
• Junk food should be avoided to protect ourselves.
• A morning walk is essential for good health.
• A healthy diet has some great effects on the mind’s health.
• College cafes should offer only healthy foods.
• Alcohol and tobacco products have bad effects on health.
• People who smoke cigarettes are more likely to die early.
• Animal testing in medical research should be legalized.
• The amazing effects of eating a sufficient amount of vegetables and fruits regularly.
• Why is dieting not a good option to lose weight?

Bioethics Persuasive Speech Topics

• Bioethics in medical research: Standardized testing of ethical standards.
• Cloning and ethical concerns: Different points of view.
• Organ transplantation ethics: Examining various perspectives.
• End-of-life decisions and ethical dilemmas.
• Genetic testing dilemmas.
• Animal testing and ethics.
• Reproductive technologies: Ethical considerations.
• Privacy in healthcare and ethical principles.
• Human enhancement ethics.
• Ethical standards in environmental issues.

Economy and Work Persuasive Speech Topics

• Universal basic income for economic stability.
• The impact of automation on jobs.
• Raising the minimum wage.
• The gig economy and worker rights.
• Reducing income inequality.
• The future of remote work.
• The benefits of financial literacy education.
• Global outsourcing and job loss.
• The importance of supporting small businesses.

Persuasive Speech Topics About Media

• Advertisements should not be aimed at children.
• How the media is encouraging cyberbullying.
• The media is responsible for the moral degradation of teenagers.
• Certain TV shows should have an age restriction.
• How the media is helping to prevent corruption.
• Media could become an educational resource.
• The media is to be blamed for eating disorders.
• The media should not promote certain beauty standards.
• How advertising helps in promoting the product.
• Freedom of the press has gone too far.

Persuasive Speech Topics About Government and International Relations

• The impact of social media on modern diplomacy
• Should countries abandon national borders and embrace global citizenship?
• The role of international organizations in promoting world peace
• Government surveillance vs. personal privacy: finding the balance
• The pros and cons of foreign aid: are we really helping?
• Challenges of cybersecurity in an interconnected world
• The power of economic sanctions in international diplomacy
• Climate change: a global responsibility for every nation
• The role of the United Nations in resolving global conflicts
• Is globalization benefiting or harming developing nations?

Searching for farewell speech writing tips? Visit the link!

Policy Speech Topics for Students

• Ban car racing in mass pollution areas.
• Domestic Violence Drug Policy.
• Equal Employment Opportunities.
• Sexist images of women should be banned.
• Smokers should be treated like drug addicts.
• What should be the minimum age for the voter?
• Why should meals in school be free?
• Why invading North Korea is a no-go plan.
• Stop clothing and textile sweatshops.
• Punish severely pupils taking drugs.

Law and Politics Persuasive Speech Topics

• Charity is used as the source of converting black money into white money.
• Detaining people on the suspicion of terrorism is justified.
• Military service should not be compulsory.
• Physician-assisted suicide should be a punishable crime.
• Violent crime offenders should be sentenced to death.
• Illegal immigrants should be instantly deported.
• Foreigners should not be allowed to buy the property.
• Surveillance should not compromise the privacy of the citizens.
• Rapists and pedophiles should be hanged to death immediately.
• Burning sketches and flags during protests should be punished.

Persuasive Speech Topics on Business

• Why should businesses analyze their target groups?
• How do social media advertising techniques work?
• How to start a business with a little investment?
• Why should you not do business with a family member?
• Why do introverts make good leaders?
• Why does the HR department need to be polite and understanding?
• Why do sales and customer service departments need to be paid more?
• What does it take to be a successful businessman?
• What are small businesses successful and profitable?
• How to do business analysis before starting a business?

Public Speaking Persuasive Speech Topics

• Should schools still teach cursive handwriting?
• Should prisoners be allowed to vote?
• What is the best type of renewable energy?
• The danger of texting and driving.
• Why should you buy a Japanese car?
• Why should alcohol be illegal?
• More recycling should be encouraged.
• The trade deficit with China is dangerous.
• Should only native plants be grown in gardens?

Arts and Culture Persuasive Speech Topics

• Modern art lacks authenticity.
• Can action movies cause stress?
• Importance of art and culture
• The effectiveness of art and music therapy
• Should graffiti be considered art?
• Should art and music therapy be required for students?
• Should all students be required to learn an instrument in school?
• Is music therapy effective?
• Should art be necessary for students?
• Importance of performing arts 

Religion Persuasive Speech Topics

• The role of religion in modern society.
• Religious freedom and its limits.
• The impact of religion on mental health.
• The relationship between science and religion.
• Religious tolerance and coexistence.
• The influence of religion on politics.
• The rise of non-religious beliefs.
• Religious rituals and their significance.
• The effects of organized religion on individuals.
• Exploring the concept of the afterlife.

Sports Persuasive Speech Topics

• College players should be treated as professional players.
• Professional sports should be financed privately.
• Drug tests should be compulsory in all professional sports.
• The support crew should be considered sportspeople.
• Media and society are less interested in women's sports.
• Cheerleaders cannot compare with professional players.
• Safety precautions for athletes should be upgraded.
• Team names should not reflect ethnic and cultural affiliations.
• Sports means depicting your limit and not winning or defeating.
• Professional female players should get more opportunities for financial support than male players.

Persuasive Speech Topics About Automotive

• The minimum driving age should be 18.
• Everyone should take driving courses.
• What are the best car seats for pets?
• Drivers should avoid the usage of cell phones while driving.
• You should drive in your lane.
• Watch out for animals on the road while driving.
• How to travel with your pet?
• Are sports cars really dangerous?
• Bike and bicycle riders should wear helmets.
• Why are Japanese cars in trend nowadays?

Persuasive Speech Topics About Travel 

• The perks of being an air hostess.
• Tourism is ruining historical places.
• Traveling should be cheaper.
• Pets should be allowed to travel with their owner.
• You should visit a new place every six months.
• Switzerland is the most beautiful place on the face of this earth.
• Why you should not visit the Bermuda Triangle.
• Tourism plays an important role in presenting a better image of a country.
• How to travel to Mars?
• Airline tickets should be cheaper.

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Persuasive Speech Topics About Music & Fashion

• Should white people listen to rap?
• Jazz is an extinct music genre.
• Good song lyrics can inspire people.
• How do fashion trends differ in society?
• Jewelry defines your worth
• Marketing high fashion.
• Men shouldn’t wear pink
• Music has its own language
• Fashion and music are different from each other
• Fashion and music of 1987

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics About Education

• School or college bullies should be rusticated immediately.
• Coeducation makes students more competitive.
• Homosexuals should have separate educational institutes.
• Online teaching is not as constructive as regular teaching.
• Kids should be taught ethics and moral values in school.
• Schoolkids should be taught about the prevention of rape.
• Sex education must be compulsory in high school.
• How can we make social media more educational?
• Teachers should take a basic skill test every year to renew their certifications.
• Poor students should get a free college education.

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Persuasive Speech Topics About Workplace

• Interns should always be paid for their work.
• Part-time workers should have the legal right to claim annual paid leave.
• How to deal with bullying in the workplace?
• A friendly environment is important for the growth of a company.
• Everyone should do a retail job once in their life.
• Hardworking employees should be rewarded with performance awards.
• All employees should get basic first aid training.
• Everyone should learn basic survival skills.
• The theory has no importance if it can’t be implemented.
• Personal hygiene is essential for good health.

Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics

• Energy drinks are far away from providing energy.
• Watching television is more beneficial than reading books.
• Health benefits and transport facilities should be free for senior citizens.
• Confidence is the key to success.
• Urban life is more tiring and energy-consuming than rural life.
• Neutral behavior is the best coping mechanism.
• The first impression is never the last impression.
• Little conflicts strengthen and make relationships healthier.
• Credit cards should not be issued to people under 30.
• All US citizens should do community service.

Great Persuasive Speech Topics for Teens

• Nuclear disarmament is necessary to restore world peace.
• The salaries of single parents should be higher than for other employees.
• Cyberbullying is the major cause of suicide among youngsters.
• Stalkers and paparazzi should be sentenced to life in prison.
• Genetically modified food products are less nutritious than natural products.
• Why can’t we quit fossil fuels?
• Birth control pills worsen the health of women.
• Everyone should donate blood at least once a year.
• The media should not promote beauty standards.
• Foster parents’ homes should be regularly inspected.

Persuasive Speech Topics for Kids

• The zoo or aquarium should not be closed on public holidays.
• Uniforms should not be mandatory for public schools.
• Schools should have a free period for video games.
• My pet is very obedient.
• Why shouldn't kids play R-rated games?
• Why can't kids be Santa?
• Why do I love my dad more than I love my mom?
• Where babies come from.
• The worst fruit on the earth.
• How do rainbows work?

Persuasive Speech Topics Related to Food and Beverages

• Kids should not eat fast food.
• People are required to learn cooking skills.
• There should be a period for cooking in school and college.
• Benefits of growing our own vegetables.
• Benefits of eating fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Why we need to stay away from processed foods.
• Frozen foods are not good for health.
• Energy drinks do not provide any energy.
• Artificial sugary drinks should be replaced with fruit juices.
• An apple a day keeps the doctor away.

Funny Persuasive Speech Topics

• Funny pick-up lines help in the development of a serious relationship.
• Endless memes can be made on my mother.
• Life is troublesome due to your horoscope.
• Girls are more interested in diamonds than makeup.
• Guys are more interested in sports than their girlfriends.
• You are not enjoying student life if you do not procrastinate.
• It is your major duty to annoy your parents.
• Life is useless without indulging in troubles without your friends.
• Guys are more interested in gossip than girls.
• Never add your parents on Facebook.

Want to leave your audience entertained? Click the link and enjoy a list of entertaining speech topics !

Persuasive Speech Topics About Animals

• Taming wild and exotic animals is unethical.
• Emotional support animals provide several health benefits.
• Animals should have protection laws.
• Why do bunnies make the perfect pet even for a small apartment?
• Why do animals make the best companions?
• The benefits of pets.
• Why should emotionally disabled people have emotional support animals?
• How do service animals differ from emotional support animals?
• Why are dogs more loyal than humans?
• How do birds and fishes provide support to emotionally disturbed people?

Controversial Persuasive Speech Topics

• Animal testing of drugs is necessary for ensuring the safety of humanity.
• Cosmetic surgery, being an unhealthy obsession, should be banned.
• Human behavior is the product of society and not of nature.
• The death penalty is the only solution for controlling the crime rate in society.
• The legal age for drinking, driving, and voting should be set at eighteen years.
• Corruption and bribery run in today’s economy.
• Do you think immigration laws need to be revised?
• Job Discrimination based on Hair Color/Style.
• Our constitution should protect hate speech.
• Regulations on applying safety devices.

Family Persuasive Speech Topics

• Family traditions are important.
• We are over-scheduling our kids
• How to run a family business?
• What is the most beneficial parenting style, and why?
• Why do I love my family?
• Should schools do more to teach family values?
• Families should start every morning with yoga.
• Laws for child abuse
• Parents should teach their children to stay polite
• It’s okay to say no to children.

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What Makes A Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

To craft an effective persuasive speech, consider the following key factors:

• Relevance: Choose a topic that is current and matters to your audience. It should be relatable to their lives and interests.
• Controversy: Controversial subjects often make for compelling speeches. They engage the audience and spark discussions.
• Credible Sources: Ensure that you have access to reliable information and sources to support your arguments.
• Audience Understanding: Consider the beliefs and values of your audience. Tailor your topic to resonate with them.
• Clarity of Position: Your stance should be clear and concise. Ambiguity can weaken your persuasive impact.

How To Create And Deliver A Compelling Persuasive Speech

The following principles will help you choose persuasive topics effectively and deliver speeches that leave a lasting impact on your audience.

• Research Thoroughly: Gather robust evidence and data to support your claims. The more you know, the more convincing you'll be.
• Structure Your Speech: Organize your speech with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. This structure helps your audience follow your arguments.
• Craft Engaging Openings: Begin with a captivating hook, a story, or a startling fact to grab your audience's attention.
• Use Persuasive Techniques: Employ ethos, pathos, and logos to appeal to reason, emotions, and credibility.
• Address Counterarguments: Acknowledge opposing views and refute them logically.
• Practice and Feedback: Rehearse your speech multiple times and seek feedback to improve your delivery.
• Confidence: Believe in your message, and your audience will be more likely to as well.
• Engage the Audience: Encourage participation, ask questions, and use rhetorical devices to keep your audience involved.
• End with a Call to Action: Conclude with a clear call to action, telling your audience what you want them to do or believe.

Let’s sum it up!

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50 Topics for a Persuasive Speech

5-minute read

• 13th January 2023

Some find writing a persuasive speech to be intimidating, but it’s an opportunity to share your position on a topic you care about and to invite listeners to support (or at least appreciate) your way of thinking. You’ll benefit from a clear position, credible evidence, and careful consideration of your audience.

Your first step is to pick a topic. Whether you’re a teacher creating an assignment or a student deciding what to speak about, our list of 50 suggested persuasive speech topics and tips are a good starting place.

Choosing a Topic

●  It’s more enjoyable to research and write a speech about a topic that genuinely holds your interest. It’ll make for better delivery, too. Passion is contagious! On the other hand, boredom and a lack of enthusiasm come through easily in vocal tone.

●  Avoid tired, overdone issues. If you’ve heard it all before, there’s a good chance your audience has, too. Pick something current and relevant to your listeners . If you go with a popular topic, try to approach it from a fresh angle.

●  Issues that contain multiple viewpoints are preferable to simplistic good/bad debates. Most reasonable people would agree that “bullying is bad.” But they might learn something new if you share recent research on bullying and offer different approaches to tackling it.

Let’s look at some interesting speech topics, categorized by subject.

Should free speech on the internet be restricted?

At what age should children have access to smartphones?

Does texting hinder interpersonal skills?

Should parents limit their children’s screen time?

Should laws prohibit using devices while driving?

Is there a link between device usage and decreased mental health?

Should the number of US Supreme Court Justices be increased?

Should voting be compulsory?

Should Election Day in the US change from Tuesday to the weekend?

Should the electoral college system be abolished?

Should election procedures be standardized in all states?

Should the Senate filibuster be abolished?

Should the death penalty be legal?

Should states be allowed to have different abortion laws?

Should the legal age to own an assault rifle be raised?

Should the US conduct a voluntary gun buyback program?

Are governments doing enough to address climate change?

Is student loan forgiveness fair?

Should the US invest in high-speed rail similar to those in Japan and Europe?

Should plastic bags be banned in grocery stores?

What is the greatest threat to international stability?

What can be done to prevent cyber threats?

Is the two-party political system of the US failing?

Should the US adopt a single-payer universal health care system?

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Should minimum wage be a factor in the cost of health care?

Is healthcare a human right?

Should access to abortion be required by healthcare providers?

Do school shooter drills damage students’ mental health?

Should vaccinations be required for students to attend public school?

Should employers offer incentives and bonuses to employees who bike or walk to work?

Do school uniforms offer any advantages?

Are school dress codes gender biased?

Are standardized test scores given too much importance in schools?

Do college entrance exams privilege those with higher socio-economic status?

Should teachers be allowed to keep firearms in their classrooms as protection against active shooters?

Should indigenous languages be taught in schools?

Should immigrants have access to free language classes?

Should books ever be banned in schools?

Should elementary schools be required to teach a foreign language?

Should schools be cellphone free?

Should volunteering before graduation be compulsory?

Should school cafeterias serve more plant-based foods?

Should parents let their children play tackle football?

Should college sports teams receive less money?

Should there be more female priests or pastors of churches?

Should churches and other religious organizations pay taxes?

Should all priests be allowed to marry?

Should prayer be permitted in public schools?

On balance, does religion create more conflict or foster peace?

Should there be exceptions to the freedom to practice any religion?

Persuasion Isn’t All or Nothing

People often think persuasion means getting others to agree with you, but persuasion is more nuanced than that. You might persuade someone to go beyond sympathy and act. You might highlight the gray areas of a typically black and white debate.

When total agreement is out of reach, you can settle for agreement in part. Consider your audience thoughtfully when you decide on your goals and remember that you have options.

Step Up with Confidence

We hope these suggested persuasive speech topics have the wheels of your mind turning. Whether it’s for a speech or an argumentative essay , getting your ideas on paper and editing them is a necessary part of the process. Our editors are here to help you confidently put out your best work. Submit a free sample today .

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Effective communication skills are more crucial than ever, especially for this decade where persuasive communication has considered as one of your strongest traits. It empowers individuals to express their thoughts clearly and confidently, making a lasting impact on their audience.

Due to its powerful communication, academic experts have included persuasive speeches in the coursework. Whether you are a student preparing for academic challenges or seeking to ignite change, mastering the art of persuasive speeches is essential.

Persuasive speech is a form of public speaking that not only nurtures self-expression but also engages diverse audiences to express thoughts on specific subjects. It strengthens the ability to stand up for one’s beliefs. Considering the importance of persuasive speech in academics, we wrote this blog on top persuasive speech topics for 2024 to help you improve your persuasive speech skills. 

In academic settings, persuasive speeches are used to present research papers, participate in debates, or deliver compelling arguments. The ability to communicate persuasively is key to achieving success in these endeavors. By developing effective persuasive speech skills, you can captivate your audience, convey your ideas with clarity and conviction, and leave a lasting impact. 

This blog aims to provide you with a thoughtfully curated list of good persuasive speech topics for 2023. We understand that selecting the right persuasive topic can be overwhelming, but fear not because we have done the hard work for you. We strive to be your primary source for generating persuasive speech ideas.  

Our meticulously chosen lists of topics for persuasive speech are designed to inspire you with thought-provoking ideas. Each persuasive topic reflects the pressing issues and trends of the year, ensuring that you have relevant and engaging subjects to explore. However, we don’t stop there! We also offer valuable tips and strategies to assist you in crafting a compelling speech that resonates with your audience. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced speaker, this blog will be your companion in choosing the best persuasive speech topics. 

Moreover, understanding your challenges to write down persuasive speeches, our experts suggest you can take the help of an Instasolving USA assignment help . The experts will help you to nail your speech.

What is a Persuasive Speech?

A persuasive speech is a special kind of speech that aims to convince the audience to accept a specific viewpoint, take a particular action, or change their beliefs or behavior on a certain topic. The main goal of a persuasive speech is to persuade, influence, or motivate the listeners by presenting a strong argument supported by logic, evidence, and emotions to pursued them to get convinced about your topic.  

A persuasive speech follows a structured format, including an introduction, body, and conclusion. In the introduction, the speaker grabs the audience’s attention, establishes credibility, and clearly states the main argument or idea. The body of the speech provides supporting evidence, examples, and logical reasoning to strengthen the central message.

This section may also address counterarguments and refute opposing viewpoints to strengthen the speaker’s position. Finally, the conclusion summarizes the key points and restates the main argument, leaving the audience with a memorable and persuasive closing statement. 

It’s important to remember that it’s unrealistic to expect everyone in the audience to adopt the speaker’s viewpoint after a single speech instantly. In a democracy, everyone has the right to their own opinion. However, a persuasive speech aims for complete understanding and agreement from the speaker’s perspective within certain limits. 

Components of a Persuasive Speech

A persuasive speech comprises essential components that aim to persuade the audience. These key components are Ethos, Logos, and Pathos; each plays a crucial role in crafting a compelling argument. Let’s explore the significance of each component in detail

• Ethos: Ethos refers to the speaker’s credibility and trustworthiness. It involves showing expertise, knowledge, and authority on the persuasive topic. This can be achieved by presenting qualifications, personal experiences or citing credible sources. Establishing ethos helps build confidence and enhances the persuasive impact of the speech.  
• Logos: Logos employs logical reasoning and evidence to support the main argument. It involves presenting facts, statistics, expert opinions, and logical arguments. The use of logos appeals to rationality and intellect. Providing well-researched evidence and logical explanations strengthens the argument and convinces the audience of the viewpoint’s validity.  
• Pathos: Pathos aims to evoke emotions and establish a connection with the audience. It involves the use of storytelling, vivid descriptions, and emotional language. Pathos appeals to feelings, values, and empathy. By tapping into the audience’s emotions, Pathos helps create an emotional bond, making the argument more relatable and persuasive. This emotional connection can influence attitudes, beliefs, and actions.  

Ethos, Logos, and Pathos form a powerful trio in a persuasive speech topic when effectively combined. Ethos establishes credibility, Logos provides logical reasoning and evidence, whereas Pathos appeals to emotions. By incorporating these components, speakers can create a persuasive argument that resonates with the audience and increases the likelihood of achieving the desired outcome. 

Importance of Persuasive Speeches for Students   

Persuasive speeches are highly important for students as they offer valuable skills and benefits. Firstly, they help students develop strong communication skills, enabling them to express their thoughts and ideas effectively. By crafting persuasive speeches, students learn to organize their arguments, choose compelling language, and engage their audience. These skills are not only valuable in your academic carrier but also help you in your personal and professional life.  

Furthermore, persuasive speeches promote critical thinking among students. Researching the topic, gathering evidence, and analyzing different perspectives enable students to think critically and evaluate information. They learn to anticipate counterarguments and present well-reasoned viewpoints, enhancing their ability to think logically and make informed decisions.

3 Types of Persuasive Speech Topics

1. factual persuasive speech:  .

Factual persuasive speeches involve presenting information and evidence to convince the audience about specific persuasive topics or points of view. These speeches rely on facts, statistics, research findings, and expert opinions to support the speaker’s argument. The goal is to present a compelling case based on objective evidence and logical reasoning. Factual persuasive speeches are effective when the speaker needs to educate the audience, debunk myths, or raise awareness about important issues. 

2. Policy Persuasive Speech:  

Policy persuasive speeches focus on advocating for specific actions or changes in policies, laws, or regulations. These speeches aim to persuade the audience to support a particular course of action or influence decision-makers to implement a specific policy. Persuasive policy speech topics require a thorough understanding of the issue, including its implications, potential benefits, and possible drawbacks. Presenting a well-reasoned argument and proposing practical solutions are essential in this type of persuasive speech ideas.  

3. Value Persuasive Speech:  

Value persuasive speeches aim to persuade the audience to adopt or embrace a particular set of values, beliefs, or moral principles. These speeches tap into persuasion’s emotional and ethical aspects, appealing to the audience’s sense of right and wrong, justice, or personal convictions. Value persuasive speeches often touch upon sensitive and controversial topics, such as social justice, environmental ethics, or personal integrity. They require the speaker to deeply connect with the audience, employing storytelling, personal anecdotes, and compelling arguments to sway their values and beliefs on persuasive topics. 

What Makes Good Persuasive Speech Topics?   

Good topics for persuasive speeches possess several key qualities that make them engaging, impactful, and compelling to the audience. Here are three cost effective essential aspects to consider when choosing topics for a persuasive speech:

1. Simple and Easy Topic:  

Good persuasive speech topics should be simple and easy to understand for both the speaker and the audience. It should be accessible to many people, regardless of background or expertise. By choosing a straightforward and uncomplicated persuasive topic, the speaker can effectively convey their message and ensure the audience can easily grasp the main points. This simplicity facilitates clarity and encourages active engagement from the listeners. 

2. New Topic:  

The interesting persuasive speech topics should be new and current, addressing the pressing issues and trends of the time. By selecting a relevant and up-to-date topic, the speaker can capture the audience’s attention and demonstrate the significance of the subject matter. New persuasive topics are more likely to resonate with the audience and generate a sense of relevance and urgency. They allow the speaker to tap into the listeners’ collective consciousness, fostering a connection and a sense of shared importance. 

3. Interesting Topic:  

The best persuasive speech topics should be interesting and captivating to both the speaker and the audience. It should pique curiosity, spark discussions, and evoke emotions. Choosing inherently interesting persuasive speech topics for the speaker will enhance their enthusiasm and passion, which will be conveyed to the audience. Interesting persuasive topics for speech often challenge conventional thinking, present unique perspectives, or shed light on lesser-known aspects of a subject. They encourage active participation and inspire the audience to think critically and engage with the speech more deeply. 

How to Choose a Persuasive Speech Topic?

Choosing good topics for a persuasive speech is crucial for persuasive speech ideas that captivate your audience. Follow these steps to choose a persuasive speech topic that is engaging and impactful: 

• Identify your interests: Start by considering persuasive topics that genuinely interest you. It’s easier to speak passionately and persuasively about subjects you are personally devoted to. 
• Research current issues: Stay updated on current events and trending persuasive topics. Look for pressing issues that spark debates or controversies. These topics will likely engage your audience and make your speech more relevant. 
• Consider your audience: Understand your audience’s demographics, interests, and concerns. Tailor your persuasive topic to resonate with their needs and perspectives. It will also help you connect with them on a deeper level. 
• Brainstorm ideas: Generate a list of potential persuasive speech topics based on your interests and the needs of your audience. Don’t limit yourself at this stage; let your creativity flow freely. 
• Evaluate the feasibility: Assess the feasibility of each good persuasive topic by considering the availability of credible sources, relevant data, and supporting evidence. Ensure that you can gather enough information to support your arguments effectively. 
• Narrow down your options: Review your list and prioritize the topics for persuasive speech that align with your interests, audience, and feasibility criteria. Choose the most compelling and well-rounded options. 
• Test for significance and impact: Ask yourself if the chosen persuasive topics for speech have the potential to make a meaningful impact or persuade others. Consider the importance and relevance of each topic in the context of the current social, political, or environmental landscape. 
• Choose the final topic: Based on the previous steps, select the persuasive speech topic that ticks all the boxes: it aligns with your interests, resonates with your audience, is well-researched, and carries significance and impact. 

Top Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024  

The foundation of good persuasive speech ideas lies in the topic you select. Therefore, make sure that the persuasive speech topics for 2023 that you choose are close to your heart. Undoubtedly, you need to believe in the topic to appeal emotionally to the audience and sway their support. 

You can’t convince the audience unless you are confident about what you are saying. Therefore, begin your search for good persuasive speech topics for 2023 with a solid understanding of the topic. Without a deeper understanding and a sound knowledge of the topic, you cannot make a compelling argument. So, complement your understanding with impressive storytelling technique to ensure that you have a good narrative through which you can persuade your audiences easily.  

Thus, let’s delve into the list of good persuasive speech topics for 2023 that you must check out: 

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 in Arts

• Importance of performing arts for holistic development 
• Should art be a compulsory discipline? 
• Graffiti: Art or Nuisance 
• Importance of art and culture 
• Should performing arts be made credit based 
• Museums are the dying reservoir of arts and culture 
• Entry to museums should be free 
• Schools should host annual arts festivals 
• The slow death of ancient art forms 
• Modern art lacks authenticity 

Best Persuasive Speech Topics for High School Students:  

• The importance of volunteering in your community 
• The benefits of implementing mindfulness exercises in schools 
• Why high school students should learn financial literacy 
• The need for comprehensive sex education in schools 
• The importance of promoting mental health awareness among teenagers 

Best Persuasive Speech Topics for College Students:  

• The advantages of studying abroad during college 
• The impact of technology on higher education 
• The benefits of participating in internships during college 
• Why college students should engage in extracurricular activities 
• The importance of developing critical thinking skills in college 
• Emerging Technologies: Blockchain, AI, and Their Societal Impact
• Global Health Issues: Strategies for Pandemic Preparedness
• Cultural Diversity and Inclusion in the Modern World
• Ethical Implications of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics
• Space Exploration: Benefits and Risks for Humanity
• The Future of Work: Gig Economy and Remote Working Trends
• Sustainable Practices in Food Production and Consumption
• The Role of Youth in Shaping Political Landscapes
• The Impact of Globalization on Local Cultures and Economies
• Mental Health Awareness in a Digital Age

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 on Academics  

• Books are the only source of learning 
• Computer-based learning is the most effective 
• Gamification and virtual reality are the future of education 
• MCQs are better than essay tests 
• Extracurriculars are a waste of time 
• Only main papers should be considered for grading 
• Academics are the only criteria for individual success 
• Rote learning is the best way to get good grades 
• Conceptual clarity beats rote learning 
• Sports can boost learning effectiveness 

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 on the Economy  

• Brexit will fuel the UK economy 
• There should be no minimum wage 
• Political unrest decelerates economic growth 
• Economics as a discipline must be mandatory 
• The economic growth of China is a model to follow 
• Free trade agreements are bad for labor 
• The economy is defined by a few rich industrialists 
• Foreign labor slows down the economy 
• Import duty should be removed 
• Exports boost economic growth 

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 on Entertainment  

• Reality shows are a source of exploitation 
• Reality shows are anything but real 
• Media has a negative influence on teenagers 
• Media influences political decisions 
• TV shows influence human behavior 
• TV shows reflect the society around 
• Reality shows reduce human IQ 
• TV shows are a great source of motivation 
• Reality shows are scripted 
• Reality shows dilute important topics of discussion

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 on Ethics  

• Juvenile delinquency is acceptable 
• Prostitution should be legal 
• Underage driving should be punishable by law 
• Beauty pageants for children should be banned 
• Prisoner’s right to vote 
• Voting rights should not be universal 
• Guns should be banned from college campuses 
• The death penalty should be abolished 
• Substance abuse is a cause of social evils 
• Underage alcohol consumption should lead to prison time 

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 on Environment  

• There should be strict penalties to protect endangered species 
• Environmental pollution is a global concern 
• Developed nations are to blame for global warming 
• The greenhouse effect threatens human existence 
• Limiting the use of natural resources and fossil fuels 
• A complete switch to renewable energy is the way to go 
• Using plastic is self-defeating 
• Humans are to blame for environmental degradation 
• Carpooling can save the environment 
• Noise pollution is detrimental to human development 

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 on Fashion  

• Men shouldn’t wear pink 
• Eco-fashion is the future 
• Fashion reveals the true identity 
• Sustainable clothing is the way to go 
• Clothes define a person 
• Jewelry defines your worth 
• Fashion is an important part of society 
• Certain fashion brands have a negative influence on society 
• The fashion industry has the greatest influence on teenagers 
• Celebrity-endorsed fashion brands are the best 

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 on Motivation  

• Following dreams is hard 
• Goal setting is important for success 
• Overcoming stage fright is crucial for success 
• Importance of creating a positive vibe 
• Sustainable living is a source of motivation 
• Happiness can be measured 
• Personal experience is more important than rote learning 
• Exposure to violence leads to demotivation 
• Video games increase motivation 
• Motivating teamwork and cooperation  

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 on Travel  

• Airline tickets should be cheaper 
• Travel brings new experiences 
• Travel makes you more inclusive 
• Eco-tourism is important for sustainable development 
• Flying first class is a once-in-a-lifetime experience 
• Traveling in a guided group is monotonous 
• Solo travel allows the best way to self-exploration 
• Antarctica should not be open to tourists 
• Environmentally endangered sites should not allow tourism 
• Tourism boosts the local economy 

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 on Technology  

• Google is the death of libraries 
•  Social media is an end of face-to-face conversations  
• AI is the future of technology 
• Technology is changing our lives 
• Limiting screen time for adults 
• Government should regulate internet usage 
• Technology has made life better 
• Internet chat rooms are not safe 
• Humans are addicted to technology 
• Internet fraud awareness: Must for cybersecurity 

Good Persuasive Speech Topics on Family:  

• The benefits of family meals and regular family time 
• The importance of open communication within families 
• The impact of divorce on children and ways to support them 
• The benefits of spending quality time with grandparents 
• The role of parental involvement in a child’s education 

Good Persuasive Speech Topics on Social Media:  

• The need to practice responsible social media usage 
• The impact of social media on mental health and self-esteem 
• The benefits of using social media for networking and professional development 
• The importance of digital literacy and online safety education 
• The role of social media in promoting social and political activism

Good Persuasive Speech Topics on Education:  

• The importance of arts education in schools 
• The benefits of personalized learning approaches 
• The need for inclusive education and accommodating diverse learning styles 
• The impact of standardized testing on students and alternative assessment methods 
• The benefits of early childhood education and its long-term effects 

Good Persuasive Speech Topics on Sports:  

• The benefits of participating in team sports for physical and mental health 
• The importance of gender equality in sports 
• The impact of sports on character development and leadership skills 
• The benefits of including adaptive sports programs for individuals with disabilities 
• The role of sports in fostering community and promoting social integration 

Good Persuasive Speech Topics on Politics and Government:  

• The importance of voting and civic participation in a democratic society 
• The impact of climate change policies on future generations 
• The need for stricter gun control laws to ensure public safety 
• The benefits of implementing universal healthcare 
• The importance of promoting diversity and inclusivity in political representation 

Best Tips for Writing a Persuasive Speech  

• Understand your audience: Research and analyze your audience’s demographics, beliefs, values, and knowledge of good persuasive topics. It will also help you tailor your arguments and appeals to resonate with them. 
• Choose a compelling topic: Select persuasive topics that are interesting, relevant, and align with your audience’s interests and concerns. Also, make sure you are passionate about it and can effectively argue for or against it. 
• Conduct thorough research on your chosen topic: Gather credible and up-to-date information from reliable sources to support your arguments. You can also use sources such as books, articles, studies, and expert opinions to strengthen your speech. 
• Develop a clear thesis statement: Craft a concise and powerful thesis statement that clearly states your position on the topic. This will serve as the main focus of your speech and guide your arguments. 
• Structure your speech: Organize your persuasive speech ideas into an introduction, body, and conclusion. Start with a captivating opening to grab your audience’s attention, present your arguments logically and coherently in the body, and end with a solid and memorable conclusion. 
• Use persuasive techniques: Incorporate rhetorical devices, such as ethos (credibility), pathos (emotions), and logos (logic), to appeal to your audience’s emotions, intellect, and sense of credibility. You can also use storytelling, examples, statistics, and quotes to make your arguments more compelling. 
• Anticipate counterarguments: Address potential counterarguments and provide counterpoints to strengthen your position. Consider opposing viewpoints and refute them with solid evidence and reasoning. 
• Engage your audience: Use engaging language, vocal variety, and body language to keep your audience interested and attentive. Encourage interaction through questions, rhetorical prompts, or audience participation. 
• Rehearse and revise: Practice your speech several times to improve your delivery and ensure smooth transitions. Revise and refine your content, eliminating unnecessary information or weak arguments. 
• Conclude with a call to action: End your speech with a clear call to action, urging your audience to take a specific step or adopt your viewpoint. Motivate them to act upon your persuasive message by leaving a lasting impression. 

For further enhancement of your persuasive speech, consider enlisting the assistance of a reputable speech writing service . Speech writers will help you refine your arguments, structure your speech effectively, and ensure your message resonates with the audience. Investing in professional speech writing greatly elevates the impact and effectiveness of your persuasive speeches as a student. 

Final Verdicts on Good Persuasive Speech Topics  

Choosing the best persuasive speech topics is essential for delivering impactful speeches in 2023. By exploring this blog’s discussed components, types, and tips, you can effectively engage your audience and make a meaningful impact. Remember to strike a balance between logical appeals and emotional connections to captivate your listeners. 

If you find yourself in need of assistance in crafting a persuasive speech that hits the mark, consider seeking help from TutorBin. With a network of subject matter experts, we offer support in refining your arguments, structuring your speech, and engaging your audience effectively. Their expertise can provide valuable guidance, helping you deliver a compelling and persuasive presentation. 

Embrace the power of persuasion, choose your persuasive topic wisely, and captivate your audience with amazing speeches in 2023. Make a difference with your persuasive voice and leave a lasting impact. 

Most Popular FAQs on Persuasive Speech Topics!  

How do i choose a persuasive speech topic  .

Choosing persuasive speech topics involves considering your personal interests, researching current issues, and understanding your audience. It’s essential to select persuasive topics that you are passionate about and that resonate with your audience. Additionally, staying updated on current events and trends can help you identify relevant and impactful topics. 

How do I make my persuasive speech engaging?  

To make your persuasive speech engaging, you can incorporate storytelling techniques, use visual aids, and involve the audience through interactive elements. Balancing logical appeals with emotional connections can help capture the audience’s attention and keep them invested in your speech. 

Can I get help with writing a persuasive speech?  

Yes, you can seek help with writing a persuasive speech. Online homework help websites like TutorBin offer assistance from expert writers who can guide you in developing persuasive arguments, structuring your speech, and engaging your audience effectively. They can also help you refine your ideas, improve your delivery, and make your speech more impactful. 

What are some good persuasive speech topics?  

• Climate change: Addressing the urgency of reducing carbon emissions and adopting sustainable practices. 
• Cyberbullying: Raising awareness about the impact of online harassment and promoting digital empathy. 
• Voting rights: Advocating for equal access to voting and the importance of civic engagement. 
• Mental health stigma: Breaking down stereotypes and promoting understanding and support for mental health issues. 
• Gender equality: Highlighting the importance of equal opportunities and challenging gender stereotypes. 

What are the best examples of a persuasive speech topic?  

• The benefits of adopting a plant-based diet for personal health and the environment. 
• The need for stricter gun control laws to reduce gun violence in society. 
• The importance of early childhood education in setting a solid foundation for future success. 
• The impact of social media on mental health and the need for responsible usage. 
• The benefits of renewable energy sources in mitigating climate change and creating a sustainable future. 

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60 Persuasive Essay and Speech Topics

Whether you’re in high school or in college, there will be some point in time where you will be asked to write a persuasive speech. Knowing how to write a persuasive speech may come in handy during the course of your career, depending on which career you choose.

Writing a persuasive speech isn’t always easy. You’ll need to find a topic that will interest you as well as your audience, and sometimes that can be difficult to do.

There are so many options for you to choose when you’re trying to decide what to write about. So how do you choose the right topic?

Pick a topic that you have a genuine interest in; you’ll be doing a lot of research on that topic. If it’s a topic that you have an interest in, you’ll have more fun writing about that topic and writing may seem a bit easier. Your audience will also see that you are interested in the topic and you’ll have more enthusiasm when writing the speech and presenting it. You’ll also want to make sure to pick a topic that the audience will have an interest in, otherwise, you may lose their attention.

Choose a topic that you’re familiar with. This will make it easier for you to research and write about.

Also, make sure that you choose a topic that is relatable to your audience. People like to hear about solutions to issues within their community and country. It’s easier for your audience to connect with you when you’re speaking about an issue that they care about.

Ready to pick a topic?

We put together a list of persuasive speech topics covering a wide range of categories to help you write that perfect persuasive speech.

Arts/Culture

• Are paper books better than e-books?
• Should all students be required to learn an instrument in school?
• Should all national museums be free to citizens?
• Should art and music therapy be covered by health insurance?
• Why public schools need art classes more than ever.
• Should offensive language be removed from works of classic literature?
• Should the federal minimum wage be increased?
• Should tipping in restaurants be mandatory?
• Should all interns be paid for the work?
• Reasons to buy products manufactured in your country.
• Why the American retirement and pensions systems need to change.
• Why you should buy goods and produce from local producers and small sellers.
• How outsourcing work to foreign countries hurts our economy.
• Should all schools require students to wear uniforms?
• Why students who bully others should be expelled.
• What are the best ways for schools to stop bullying?
• Why cell phones should be prohibited on school grounds.
• Ways to increase student interest in learning.
• Should students be required to complete community service hours before graduating?
• Why the arts and music programs are just as important as math and science.
• Should people with more than one DUI lose their driver’s license?
• Should assisted suicide be legal for people who suffer from terminal illness?
• Should assault weapons be illegal or legal?
• Should the death penalty be abolished?
• Reasons why cannabis should be legalized or illegal?
• Reasons to go or not to go to war.
• Should product testing on animals be allowed?

Government/Politics

• Should voting be made mandatory?
• Should the President be allowed to serve more than two terms?
• Should there be term limits for Congress?
• How to nation’s justice system needs to be improved.
• Should people who receive state aid such as food stamps be required to have a drug test?
• Should convicted drug users be sent to a recovery program instead of prison?
• Why a wall should or should not be built between the United States and Mexico.
• Should assisted suicide be legal?
• How eating fast food can do as much harm to your health as smoking or doing drugs.
• How going to the gym alone will not help combat obesity.
• Why insulin should be made free to anyone dependent on it.
• Should female minors be allowed to get birth control without telling their parents?
• Should stem cell research be allowed to help cure diseases?
• How regular exercise can improve your health.
• Should the US have a universal health care system?
• Should public prayer be allowed in schools?
• Does religion have a place in the government?

Science/ Environment

• Should animal testing be illegal?
• Why we should use reusable bags
• Should recycling be made mandatory?
• Should Pluto be considered a planet?
• Reasons why not or why you should donate your body to science.
• Should genetically modified foods be sold in stores?
• Should human and animal cloning be allowed?
• Should professional athletes be required to pass regular drug tests?
• Should college athletes be paid?
• Should self-driving cars be legal?
• Does technology make kids lazy?
• How technology has changed the way we communicate with our friends and family.
• Is telemedicine a good or bad thing?
• Would you let your small child use a tablet or smartphone? Why or why not?
• Do you think video games help children learn and develop thinking skills?
• Do video games make people more violent?

Extra Tips to Create Your Persuasive Speech

1.Know your position When you begin writing your speech, you need to state your position on the subject from the start, whether you agree with the subject or you don’t agree. Use a strong and clearly worded statement in your opening paragraph stating why you agree or why you don’t agree with the subject

2. Know your audience. It’s important to know who you will be presenting your speech to so you’ll know who you need to persuade. When you’re writing your speech, think about what your audience may already know about the topic and what areas of that topic they may care about the most.

3. Research your topic. A strong argument requires solid evidence. Without evidence, your speech may not be very persuasive. Being able to give hard facts will make your speech more convincing and strong. Also, be sure to give facts from more than one source.

Test Prep Resources: Accuplacer test , TSI Practice test , Civil Service exam , GRE test

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Jay Willis joined Mometrix as Vice President of Sales in 2009, and has developed several key strategic relationships that have enhanced the distribution of Mometrix products. With nearly 20 years of sales experience in the publishing industry, his dedication to providing the highest quality experience for customers, coupled with his sales and marketing expertise, has resulted in significant growth of the Institutional Sales division. Learn more View all posts by Jay Willis

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Writing a Persuasive Speech and Choosing a Winning Topic

We all want to be heard, to get a chance to share our opinion with others and to be valuable. Choosing the best persuasive speech topic gives people a chance to attract the attention of the audience and to hold it until the last word.

And even if you were never asked to write a persuasive speech before, trust our  paper writing service – it’s a rather common task and sooner or later you’ll need to perform a speech at a graduation party, during class debates or on a job interview.

When the speech follows all the rules and requirements, it will surely persuade the audience to accept or at least agree with your points of view. A strong speech will prove that you have thoroughly studied the subject and that your ideas are valid and credible. Unfortunately, most of the students are not able to find a good topic for an upcoming persuasive speech, so they feel lost and stressed. But don’t worry, today will give you a list of the most brilliant persuasive speech topics, so you can write an outstanding piece and conquer the minds and hearts of the audience.

The Best Persuasive Speech Topics in 2020

Writing any type of creative assignment starts with selecting a proper topic. And persuasive speech is not an exception. Thus, you’ll need to devote enough time coming up with a great idea and then using all your skills to write an outstanding piece. Sometimes teachers or tutors assign a topic but most of the time you’ll have to do it on your own. That is why when planning persuasive speech writing, make sure you have additional time for choosing the most suitable topic.

First, you should know that there are three different types of persuasive speech:

• Value persuasive speech, which argues if a topic is right from a moral point of view;
• Factual persuasive speech, which uses facts and arguments to support a certain idea;
• Policy persuasive speech, which is used to advance laws, electoral programs, and so on.

So, once you decided which type of persuasive speech you are going to write, it’s the right time to choose an interesting topic. Make sure that it is relevant for the major and will be interesting for your audience. For example, if you are in high school and your major is literature, it’s unlikely that you’ll get a high grade about discussing the benefits and drawbacks of the current retirement plan.

You can write about outstanding personalities or literature characters, historical or contemporary events, society processes, etc. The only limit when choosing a persuasive speech topic is your imagination! So now let us help you with selecting a great idea by providing a list of the most popular and recent persuasive speech topics.

Simple Persuasive Speech Topics

• Our mind is not fed by money;
• We always learn from defeats, not from victories;
• Changes are a crucial part of our lives;
• Any problem is a chance to improve;
• Books are our best friends;
• Practical experience is more valuable than theoretical knowledge;
• Can public figures be happy?
• Humanity should be an organic part of nature;
• Contribution of faith to the happy life;
• We should stick to the truth without any exceptions;
• Can betrayal be forgiven?
• Etiquette as a glue for society;
• Can a person be called kind if he doesn’t respect others?
• Irresponsibility may kill;
• Indifference is what kills humanity;
• People, who live in harmony with themselves;
• Dreamers achieve better results in adult life;
• Can material achievements replace spiritual ones?
• Always listen to your conscience when making a decision;
• Importance of language in our daily lives;
• A person is the basis of any country;
• Art is the main form of self-expression;
• A fit and a healthy individual doesn’t need to do sports;
• Reading love stories won’t make you smarter;
• Every person has the right to choose how to live.

Strong Persuasive Speech Topics

• Are we the ones to blame for global climate changes?
• Why should we all do sports?
• Is it interesting to live?
• Is it necessary to be rich?
• Who is an educated person?
• We are all intelligent in our own way;
• Successful people wear expensive clothes;
• Never betray people that trust you;
• Humanity is in danger;
• How to communicate during official events;
• Can I be considered kind if I don’t do charity?
• Being responsible is important for life success;
• Why teenagers are so frivolous about their future?
• Bad people never change;
• Importance of compassion;
• Bullying at schools and colleges;
• Are modern youngsters involved in politics?
• What makes a happy family;
• Evaluation of a social climate in a group;
• Self-destructive behavior of modern students;
• Education as the most important social institution;
• Why youth is prone to have an unorganized lifestyle?
• The world is kind and honest;
• Slang is an important part of a language;
• A language that is not used, is dead.

Controversial Topics for a Persuasive Speech

• Define freedom;
• What work is harder – intellectual or physical?
• What differs politeness from etiquette?
• Is it simpler for realists to survive in the modern world?
• Absence of bad habits is the only way to maintain good health;
• What should we listen to – our feelings or mind?
• Dress code for businessmen;
• Differences between male and female logic;
• What is better in rendering emotions: facial expressions or gestures?
• Ways to greet each other in various languages;
• Is it necessary to take vengeance on the people that hurt you?
• It’s time to unite and solve ecology problems;
• Modern youth;
• Accepted clothes in society;
• Role of women in the 21st century;
• Is higher education a guarantee of a better life?
• Does success in life mean wealth?
• Understanding the problems of children and their parents;
• Is the virtual world predominantly harmful?
• Comparison of men 100 years ago and now;
• Herbal treatment vs evidence-based medicine;
• Mistakes we all make;
• Being lonely or being self-sufficient?
• Our power is in unity;
• Euthanasia should be legalized.

Topics for a Persuasive Speech at High School

• Are we living in a cyber world?
• Youth lasts until the childhood ends;
• Beauty in advertising is nothing but a lie;
• We are the only live beings in the universe;
• Have you ever tried bean-made chips?
• Who is the luckiest actor nowadays?
• Who is the most overrated person at the moment?
• Do you like snow-made ice-cream?
• Swimming with whales – the best experience ever;
• How did wolves turn into dogs?
• Billboards distract drivers;
• India is the most unique country in the world;
• Can you count the stars?
• Making water out of the air;
• The tallest person on Earth;
• Should we all learn from our own mistakes?
• Stress can be avoided;
• What is the magic word you often use?
• Is it possible to remain beautiful until retirement?
• Talking on the phone when driving;
• If you’re adult it doesn’t mean that you’re serious;
• The main difference of a child from a parent;
• Zoos – a place of excitement or a jail?
• How to achieve everything in life;
• The best occupation in the entire world.

More Persuasive Speech Topics for a Great performance

• Social media greatly impacts our self-esteem;
• Team sports is a great teacher to our children;
• What are the qualities every hero should possess;
• Is learning from our own mistakes so important?
• Spending quality time with friends;
• The best way of making money;
• Underwater villages: will they ever exist?
• Writing messages when driving should have strict punishments;
• Using plastic should be prohibited;
• Should children have more days off from school?
• Modern immigration laws are not effective;
• What can we learn from refugees;
• How to reduce stress when we don’t have time for yoga or shopping;
• Is it possible to control the weather?
• Should we pay more or fewer taxes?
• Can students miss classes if they don’t have a serious reason?
• Students must have the right to choose a school on their own.

Persuasive Speech Topics on Education

• What is needed to write a great essay;
• All students should be taught how to perform in front of the audience;
• How to improve public speaking skills;
• Should uniforms be compulsory in all schools?
• Should boys and girls study separately?
• Advantages and disadvantages of boarding schools;
• Why is it so good to be an exchange student and live in a different culture for some time?
• Cell phones must be banned at schools;
• Can take some time off school help students decide who they are?
• Table games as another way of bonding students;
• Is the modern grading system an objective way to evaluate knowledge?
• Learning several foreign languages at high schools;
• Which classes would you add to the curriculum and why?

10 Tips for a Persuasive Presentation

Powerful presentation is persuasion. here's how to elevate your impact..

Posted May 11, 2024 | Reviewed by Ray Parker

• Presentations aim to effect change. It's essential to be clear about what change you want to see.
• Powerful presenters embrace and extend empathy to seek first to understand their audience.
• Substance and style both matter to create an audience-informed communication experience.
• Persuasive presentations are relevant, reasoned, real, and resonant.

How many of us realize that giving a presentation or making a speech is all about persuasion , influence, and emotional intelligence ? Impactful presenters understand the power of empathy to understand and engage their audience, the efficiency and kindness of having a clear objective and message, and the importance of substance and style—all as a way to connect in a way that engages and inspires.

Much has been written on the power and behavioral science of persuasion, not least by expert Robert Cialdini. His bestselling book Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion explains seven research-based universal principles of influence .

From my experience as a leadership coach working with thousands of people worldwide, I have compiled a list of ten essentials to elevate our presentation.

1. Maintain an "other" focus. What do you know about your audience and how can you find out more? Ask yourself what kind of a speaker will appeal to your audience, what arguments are likely to resonate with them, and what feelings you want to inspire so the audience will positively respond to your ask. If your audience is predominantly data-driven, you may want to use more evidence-based arguments. If the audience is mixed, a combination of data, authority, and storytelling may be more appropriate. Extend Daniel Goleman’s three types of empathy to gather intelligence , understand your audience, and tailor your intervention to connect more profoundly.

2. Determine a specific objective: Presentations aim to effect change in some way. What change do you want to see in your audience? Every presentation aims to change the audience in some way. For instance, gaining their approval for a certain investment, soliciting their buy-in for a change, or creating a sense of enthusiasm for an idea or initiative. The purpose of a presentation is to bring about change so make sure you are clear on what kind of change you want to bring about.

3. Design a grabber: Our attention spans have shrunk as we have more and more competing demands on our attention . If you want to get someone’s attention you need to grab it at the outset and try and hold on. You can do this in a number of different ways. Throw out a question that demands a response from the audience. Give a surprising fact or statistic, or quote from a well-known figure. Tell a story or an anecdote. A good grabber captures the attention of everyone there, and makes them focus on what you have to say.

4. Crystalize your message and construct your arguments : Your message is the heart of your speech. Craft a brief phrase that clearly defines your proposal in 10-12 words. For example, “This post is about crafting presentations that inspire and engage others to elevate their presentations.” Make it memorable by choosing inspiring words, symbols, catchy expressions, something that will remain in the audience's mind. As Brené Brown says: “Clear is kind,” and a clear message provides a path to develop your ideas.

When you have a clear and concise message, it helps you formulate your arguments. Think of developing your arguments using the rule of three —three compelling arguments to convince but not overwhelm your audience.

5. Prepare a call to action: Remember, we want to change our audience in some way, so we need to make our ask in a clear and concrete manner.

Consider your call to action in terms of what you want your audience to think/feel/do:

• Think—“I want you to think about how you can improve your presentations.”
• Feel—“I want you to feel enthusiastic and motivated so that you can elevate your power to persuade.”
• Do—“I want you to try out some of these tips and tools for yourself.”

6. Craft a memorable closing: Close the speech in an elegant and memorable way. We need people to remember what we've told them, so prepare it well. This is not the time to improvise. Try to connect your closing to your opening grabber, which makes the presentation more memorable. Good preparation means preparing everything to the very end—finish well.

7. Plan your delivery: A dynamic speaker draws listeners in by using vocal variety (tone, intonation, speed, volume, pace, pauses, silence) and body language (posture, gestures, expression, and movement) to highlight important points and hold the audience’s attention. Be intentional: How will you use your voice and your body to emphasize a thought or idea? Think about it: If you increased the time you spent on style or delivery by 20 percent, what would it mean for the impact you make?

8. Think about how you will engage your audience : You want the audience to feel considered throughout. Include pauses so they can process what’s being said; connect with individuals throughout the room and make deliberate eye contact while speaking, especially when delivering key points. Read and respond to the audience by changing how you deliver as you go based on the audience’s nonverbal communication .

9. Rehearse and Practice: Practice is one of the most crucial elements of presenting—and probably the most neglected one. If this is new to you start by reading your presentation in front of a mirror to get comfortable speaking your presentation. Next, video yourself and watch out for nervous or distracting habits to eliminate them and identify any areas where you can improve your delivery. If you are feeling brave, practice in front of an audience and ask for feedback.

10. Prepare your success rituals and mantra: Public speaking and/or stage fright can feel debilitating for some. Have your calm-down ritual prepared and ready to go before you start your presentation. This might be a certain gesture, a power pose, breathwork, or a mantra. Try this tip: Identify three adjectives to describe how you would like to show up during this presentation. This sets an intention and helps focus our cognitive and emotional resources on success.

Powerful presenters embrace and extend empathy to seek first to understand their audience. They use this intelligence to carefully make choices about substance and style to create an audience-informed communication experience that feels relevant, reasoned, real, and resonant and creates a pathway for change.

Palena Neale, Ph.D. , is a women’s leadership coach, lecturer, and founder of unabridged, a boutique leadership development practice.

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Free Speech Still Applies at Universities

Bad or hateful opinions aren’t against the law.

My conundrum begins with the base concept that there is no such thing as hate speech according to the First Amendment. I believe something very different than the encampment protesters at Columbia. But I believe in defending their right to protest legally just as much. Makes for some uncomfortable times, but it’s the thought that counts.

There are no laws against “hate speech.” Some people have developed an alternate understanding of free speech, with students in particular believing “offensive” speech should not be protected, particularly when the offense is directed at groups defined by race, religion, ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation. But the 1A says a speaker can call people names and insult them by their religion. What many people think and say is hateful. It is in fact carefully thought out to inspire hate, to promote hate, to appeal to crude and base instincts. Indeed, that is the point. Free speech means just that, with any limited restrictions content-neutral. So there’s nothing in the law per se preventing people from holding and/or shouting anti-Semitic views.

(BONUS: Much of what follows applies to Donald Trump’s own statements to the mob on January 6. His so-called inflammatory statements that morning are protected by much of the same law as the Gaza encampment people. It should make a college age ACLU donor proud to know her $25 contribution with Mom’s credit card helps the Gaza encampment people, Israel supporters, and Trump all at once.)

But what about when that anti-Semitism extends to calls to violence, horrible stuff like signs asking for counter-protesters to become Hamas’s next victims? Brandenburg v . Ohio precludes speech from being shut down as incitement to violence unless 1) the speech explicitly or implicitly encouraged the use of violence or lawless action; 2) the speaker intends that their speech will result in the use of violence or lawless action; and the important one, 3) imminent use of violence or lawless action is the likely result of the speech. (A hostile reaction from a crowd doesn’t count.)

A second type of speech excluded from First Amendment protection and often wrongly labeled hate speech are “fighting words” : speech that instantly “inflict[s] injury or tend to incite an immediate breach of the peace.” This must be directed at a specific individual; offensive speech to a crowd doesn’t count.

The upshot is that, apart from some very narrow definitions of violence-inducing words, the obligation exists to the concept of free speech independent of the content of that speech. This is also one of the most fundamental precepts of free speech in a democracy. There need be no protections for saying things that people agree with, things that are not challenging or debatable or offensive; free speech is not really needed for the weather or sports.

But what about anti-Semitic speech such as “From the river to the sea [wipe out the Jews]?” Isn’t this the equivalent of that bit about “shouting ‘fire’ in a crowded theater”?

The Fire! line comes from the Supreme Court decision in Schenck v . United States and is often cited as justification for limiting free speech. Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes said “the most stringent protection of free speech would not protect a man in falsely shouting fire in a theater and causing a panic. The question in every case is whether the words used are used in such circumstances and are of such a nature as to create a clear and present danger.”

The full decision says the First Amendment doesn’t protect false speech that meets three conditions: 1) the speech must be demonstrably false; 2) it must be likely to cause real harm, not just offense or hurt feelings, and 3) must do so immediately, a “clear and present danger.” This interpretation of the First Amendment has been adjudicated to impose a high barrier to restrictions on what can be blocked or banned, and over the years has allowed flags to be burned in front of veterans and real Nazis to march among Holocaust survivors, and—yeah—the “river to the sea” thing. None of this extends to trashing a building or blocking a public highway.

Schenck was what jurists call bad law , in that it sought to use the Espionage Act against a Socialist pamphleteer to stop free speech, not to protect it. (The pamphleteer was determined to be a clear and present danger in wartime.) The case was eventually overturned. The Supreme Court has set a very high bar against restricting speech based on the idea that what is being said leading to violence.

But colleges and universities are not the government. Many are private institutions like X and Facebook that are not subject to the 1A. So shouldn't they have the right to censor their students, the way X can censor tweets and Facebook block users?

Academic administrators like to rely on the idea of “time, place, and manner” in their restrictions on speech. But public funding invokes the First Amendment for schools, though obviously if a school exists that accepts zero public dollars, that’s another story. The legal argument extending the First Amendment to institutions accepting Federal funding is Rosenberger v . University of Virginia , where the Supreme Court held that the University could not fund all student publications except those addressing religious views because such a policy violated the institution’s constitutional obligation not to discriminate against particular viewpoints.

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Universities like Columbia, which accept pubic funds, are avoiding the 1A by claiming their protesting students are trespassing or violating school Codes of Ethics that specify time, place, and manner of protests. Whether the latter would stand up in court is an open question.

There is no legal or other justification for banning speech based on who it may offend or threaten; in fact, quite the opposite. Wendell Holmes declared a “marketplace of ideas”—all ideas, not just popular ones. Free speech is messy as hell, but it is our essential defense against fascism, whether from the left or the right.

Even in the week before finals.

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Two Harms of Hate Speech and the Limits of Counter-Speech

April 16, 2024 | by Sam Jackson

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For more than a decade, we’ve been debating how to respond to hate speech – broadly  understood as “offensive discourse targeting a group or an individual based on inherent characteristics (such as race, religion or gender).” 1 The status quo in the United States holds that governments may not restrict speech outside of narrow exceptions (for things like threats, defamation, and obscenity), 2 and hate speech in general doesn’t fit into those exceptions, though some examples of hate speech might, like if the hate speech is likely to incite “ imminent lawless action ”. Non-governmental actors engaged in content moderation, such as social media platforms, are generally understood to be legally permitted to restrict speech according to their own rules, though whether and how companies exercise this legal right is a matter of ongoing debate.  

One response to hate speech is the “ marketplace of ideas ” model, which  argues that the most  effective way to defeat loathsome ideas is to challenge them with other ideas, because good ideas will defeat bad ones on a level playing field. 3 Additionally, according to this approach, restrictions aren’t effective, are too blunt, and will be weaponized by those in power against legitimate critics. And it’s certainly true that  authoritarian  regimes have weaponized terms like terrorism to outlaw dissent, while risk-averse platforms  remove  content from activists that documents hate crimes, violence against civilians, and other violations of human rights. This framework of competition has long been a dominant metaphor to understanding approaches to the regulation of speech in the United States, although  experts have increasingly  pushed  back against it in recent years. 

Persuasive hate speech  

This marketplace approach is rooted in understanding hate speech primarily as persuasive communication of ideas that downplays the immediate harms of that speech. And indeed, some hate speech is persuasive, aiming to change minds. For example, some “academics” peddle pseudo-scientific research arguing that racial minorities are intellectually inferior or pose threats to White people. 4 Part of the purpose of this kind of work is to persuade non-believers of the truth of their hate speech.  

For counter-speech to defeat hate speech in this framework, we need to think of hate speech as something with a “truth value” (i.e., statements that can be said to be true or untrue) that can be contested. In this understanding, counter-speech can become a kind of competitor in the marketplace: calling out hate speech as unacceptable states our values and, at least indirectly, attempts to convince others that our values are good. 

Expressive hate speech  

However, some hate speech is less concerned with “truth value” and more concerned with making targets feel unsafe or unwelcome. 5 When someone uses a racial slur, they are not (primarily) saying anything of substance other than “I believe you belong to this racial group, and I do not like people who belong to this racial group.” 6 While there is persuasive potential in this kind of hate speech (for example, convincing bystanders that the target is part of a harmful minoritized group, or that it is permissible to use racial slurs), that persuasion is secondary to the immediate goal of harming the target.  

At the same time, even the most persuasive of hate speech also has expressive outcomes. When prominent public voices argue, for example, about whether trans folks should be permitted to use bathrooms that correspond to their gender identity, trans folks justifiably hear expressions of the idea that trans people aren’t normal and deserve to have their autonomy disproportionately restricted by the government. 

Just as targets can hear expressive hate within persuasive hate speech, they can hear expressive solidarity within persuasive counter-speech: when an ally argues that legislating bathroom access for trans folks is unjust, trans folks could also hear expressions of affinity and belonging. 

Countering Hate Speech  

As we think about hate speech interventions, we must consider the different types of harms that come with different forms of hate speech. If an instance of hate speech seems more persuasive than expressive in function, counter-speech that argues against the truth propositions in that hate speech might be a reasonable response. For example, in response to assertions that Latinx immigrants are violent criminals, scholars can collect and publish data to  investigate  crime  rates among immigrants versus non-immigrants, using our best relevant evidence to contradict the truth value of the incorrect assertion about immigrant crime. 

However, research on fact-checking and debunking warns about backlash to information correction. For example, when people see negations of false statements (such as “Mexican immigrants are  not  rapists”), they tend to remember the false statement without remembering its negation; e.g., in this example, people would remember “Mexican immigrants are rapists,” forgetting the “ not ” part of that statement. This happens through a few possible  mechanisms , including a tendency to believe that familiar information is true regardless of its truth. That is, the more we hear something, the more we believe it is true, even if we heard about it in the context of refuting the piece of information and including a tendency to forget negation (i.e., forgetting the “ not ” in the above example). 7 As  observers have pointed out in the context of recent fabricated controversies related to DEI efforts, saying that “’malfunctioning doors have nothing to do with DEI’ is still a sentence with both ‘malfunctioning doors’ and ‘DEI’ in it.” A better alternative, according to this perspective, is to change the terms of the discussion to shine a light on the hateful ideas driving the fabricated controversies: don’t say that the racist is wrong, spend your time pointing out the racist’s racism. But this is still engaging in the marketplace of ideas, in a certain sense: rather than a straight competition between two versions of the same “product” (i.e., idea), this is like pointing out the unsanitary conditions in the competitor’s factory.  

Regardless of what we think of the metaphor of the “marketplace of ideas,” we must be clear about what harms we want to reduce and how those harms manifest. Counter-speech against expressive hate speech can only be effective if it undoes the immediate harms of hateful expression, taking someone who was made to feel unsafe and unwelcome and demonstrating that they have support and community. This is the Paxlovid of dealing with hate speech: just as the antiviral medications in Paxlovid reduce the chances that someone will have severe complications from COVID-19 once they’ve already been infected, persuasive counter-speech can perhaps reduce some of the harms that have already been caused by hate speech. But as we know from COVID, prevention efforts (like mask wearing) are more efficient and effective than treatment. 

This distinction between expressive and persuasive hate speech can hopefully lead us to better understand the different types of harm associated with hate speech. 8 Deep knowledge of problems is critical to designing interventions that can address those problems. But unpacking complexity doesn’t necessarily directly lead to better interventions. Though distinguishing expressive hate speech from persuasive may make sense conceptually and might be analytically useful when examining individual cases, I’m not sure that we can distinguish these forms at scale. Identifying expressive hate speech, especially outside of the clearest examples, is challenging for a number of reasons, not least of which is that it’s difficult to know what effects an instance of hate speech will have on those who are the target of the attack until after they have experienced those effects (at which point it’s too late for prevention and we have to think about reducing negative effects after the fact). Instead, this distinction can help us better understand the shortcomings of the marketplace of ideas approach to thinking about harmful speech. 

There are more fundamental hurdles to leveraging the expressive-persuasive distinction for content moderation purposes, though. Most importantly, most instances of hate speech likely contain some degree of both expressive content and persuasive content; there are probably relatively few instances that are pure expression or pure persuasion. 9 The primary utility of deploying this distinction in cases of mixed persuasion and expression is in recognizing that any intervention is likely to only address some of the harms associated with a particular example of hate speech. 

1 As with so many concepts related to extremism, there is considerable debate about the definition of hate speech among experts. Further complicating this, some (but far from all) nation states have laws criminalizing hate speech that also attempt to define the term but within the specific legal and sociopolitical contexts of the nation in question. For an approachable overview, see Caitlin Ring Carlson’s Hate Speech .  

2 Unless, it seems, the government action is led by Republicans alleging anti-conservative bias in content moderation practices based on only anecdotal evidence. The Supreme Court heard challenges to state laws along these lines from Texas and Florida in February 2024. https://www.texastribune.org/2024/02/26/texas-social-media-law-supreme-court/ .  

3 Maitra and McGowan summarize some other objections to certain flavors of the “marketplace of ideas” framework, including the idea that such counter-speech expectations often fall on those who are targeted by hate speech even though these folks tend to suffer from discrimination that can limit their ability to talk about issues related to hate speech. 

4 One prominent example is Kevin MacDonald, an evolutionary psychologist who has openly advocated white supremacy for years and retired as a full professor from the faculty of California State University – Long Beach in 2014. https://daily49er.com/news/2014/04/14/controversial-psychology-professor-to-retire-in-the-fall/ https://www.irehr.org/2016/08/30/who-is-kevin-macdonald/ .  

5 The idea that speech itself can directly harm has been the subject of scholarly attention for decades. For example, Richard Delgado wrote about what would later be called “assaultive speech” in 1982. See https://scholarship.law.ua.edu/fac_articles/360/ .   

6 “I do not like people who belong to this racial group” is perhaps the mildest of negative sentiments implied by the use of a racial slur. In reality, the negative sentiment is likely to be more severe, along the lines “I believe people who belong to this racial group are inherently inferior to other people” or “I believe people who belong to this racial group do not deserve basic human dignity.” 

7 The tendency to forget negation leads to a very nuts-and-bolts semantic suggestion: counter-speech should use positive antonyms (e.g., “trans women are women”) rather than negating the original words of the speech being countered (e.g., “trans women are not men”). See https://search.issuelab.org/resource/misinformation-and-fact-checking-research-findings-from-social-science.html , pp. 14-15. 

8 Expressive hate speech might refer to the same types of harmful speech as the term “assaultive speech,” a question I intend to take up in future work. 

9 Pure persuasion might be more common than pure expression: propaganda containing hate speech could be understood as pure persuasion, especially if the intended audience of that propaganda is a member of the speaker’s in-group rather than a member of their out-group. 

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