50 Argumentative Essay Topics

Illustration by Catherine Song. ThoughtCo. 

  • M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
  • B.A., History, Armstrong State University

An argumentative essay requires you to decide on a topic and take a position on it. You'll need to back up your viewpoint with well-researched facts and information as well. One of the hardest parts is deciding which topic to write about, but there are plenty of ideas available to get you started.

Choosing a Great Argumentative Essay Topic

Students often find that most of their work on these essays is done before they even start writing. This means that it's best if you have a general interest in your subject, otherwise you might get bored or frustrated while trying to gather information. (You don't need to know everything, though.) Part of what makes this experience rewarding is learning something new.

It's best if you have a general interest in your subject, but the argument you choose doesn't have to be one that you agree with.

The subject you choose may not necessarily be one that you are in full agreement with, either. You may even be asked to write a paper from the opposing point of view. Researching a different viewpoint helps students broaden their perspectives. 

Ideas for Argument Essays

Sometimes, the best ideas are sparked by looking at many different options. Explore this list of possible topics and see if a few pique your interest. Write those down as you come across them, then think about each for a few minutes.

Which would you enjoy researching? Do you have a firm position on a particular subject? Is there a point you would like to make sure to get across? Did the topic give you something new to think about? Can you see why someone else may feel differently?

50 Possible Topics

A number of these topics are rather controversial—that's the point. In an argumentative essay, opinions matter and controversy is based on opinions, which are, hopefully, backed up by facts.   If these topics are a little too controversial or you don't find the right one for you, try browsing through persuasive essay and speech topics  as well.

  • Is global climate change  caused by humans?
  • Is the death penalty effective?
  • Is our election process fair?
  • Is torture ever acceptable?
  • Should men get paternity leave from work?
  • Are school uniforms beneficial?
  • Do we have a fair tax system?
  • Do curfews keep teens out of trouble?
  • Is cheating out of control?
  • Are we too dependent on computers?
  • Should animals be used for research?
  • Should cigarette smoking be banned?
  • Are cell phones dangerous?
  • Are law enforcement cameras an invasion of privacy?
  • Do we have a throwaway society?
  • Is child behavior better or worse than it was years ago?
  • Should companies market to children?
  • Should the government have a say in our diets?
  • Does access to condoms prevent teen pregnancy?
  • Should members of Congress have term limits?
  • Are actors and professional athletes paid too much?
  • Are CEOs paid too much?
  • Should athletes be held to high moral standards?
  • Do violent video games cause behavior problems?
  • Should creationism be taught in public schools?
  • Are beauty pageants exploitative ?
  • Should English be the official language of the United States?
  • Should the racing industry be forced to use biofuels?
  • Should the alcohol drinking age be increased or decreased?
  • Should everyone be required to recycle?
  • Is it okay for prisoners to vote (as they are in some states)?
  • Is it good that same-sex couples are able to marry?
  • Are there benefits to attending a single-sex school ?
  • Does boredom lead to trouble?
  • Should schools be in session year-round ?
  • Does religion cause war?
  • Should the government provide health care?
  • Should abortion be illegal?
  • Are girls too mean to each other?
  • Is homework harmful or helpful?
  • Is the cost of college too high?
  • Is college admission too competitive?
  • Should euthanasia be illegal?
  • Should the federal government legalize marijuana use nationally ?
  • Should rich people be required to pay more taxes?
  • Should schools require foreign language or physical education?
  • Is affirmative action fair?
  • Is public prayer okay in schools?
  • Are schools and teachers responsible for low test scores?
  • Is greater gun control a good idea?
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Essay on Contemporary Issues

Students are often asked to write an essay on Contemporary Issues in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Contemporary Issues

What are contemporary issues.

Contemporary issues are problems or challenges that society is facing today. These issues can be local, national, or global. They often involve topics like the environment, technology, social issues, and politics. Understanding these issues can help us make better decisions for our future.

Environmental Issues

One of the biggest contemporary issues is environmental problems. These include climate change, pollution, and loss of biodiversity. Climate change is causing extreme weather events, like hurricanes and droughts. Pollution is harming our air, water, and land. Loss of biodiversity means many animal and plant species are disappearing.

Technological Issues

Technology is changing our lives in many ways. But it also brings new challenges. For example, cybercrime is a growing problem. This includes things like hacking and identity theft. There are also concerns about privacy and data security. We need to find ways to use technology safely and responsibly.

Social Issues

Social issues are another important contemporary issue. These include things like poverty, inequality, and discrimination. Many people lack access to basic needs like food, shelter, and healthcare. Inequality means some people have much more wealth and power than others. Discrimination is when people are treated unfairly because of their race, gender, age, or other characteristics.

Political Issues

Political issues can also be considered contemporary issues. These can include things like corruption, lack of democracy, and conflicts between nations. It’s important for people to be informed about these issues and to participate in the political process. This can help ensure that governments are accountable and responsive to their citizens.

250 Words Essay on Contemporary Issues

What are contemporary issues.

Contemporary issues are problems that we face in today’s world. These problems affect a lot of people, and they are often the subject of a lot of debate. They include things like climate change, inequality, and technology use.

Climate Change

Climate change is one of the most pressing contemporary issues. It refers to long-term changes in temperature and typical weather. Many scientists believe that human activities contribute to climate change. As a result, we see more extreme weather events, like hurricanes and droughts, that can harm people, animals, and our environment.

Inequality is another important contemporary issue. This can mean that people don’t have the same opportunities because of their race, gender, or how much money they have. It can affect many parts of life, like jobs, education, and health. Many people are working hard to fight against inequality and to ensure that everyone has the same opportunities.

Technology Use

Technology use is a newer contemporary issue. As more people use smartphones, tablets, and computers, we need to think about how this affects us. Some people worry that we spend too much time on these devices and not enough time talking to each other. There are also concerns about privacy and how data is used.

In conclusion, contemporary issues are problems that affect us all and are the subject of much debate. By understanding these issues and thinking about how we can solve them, we can make the world a better place. It’s important for everyone, including students, to learn about these issues and think about how they can help.

500 Words Essay on Contemporary Issues

Introduction to contemporary issues.

Contemporary issues are topics that are important in the present time. These are problems or challenges that we face today. They can be about many things like politics, society, environment, or technology. Understanding these issues can help us make better decisions and improve our world.

In the world of politics, there are many current issues. One of them is the fight for human rights. In many parts of the world, people are not treated equally. They do not have the same rights as others because of their race, religion, gender, or beliefs. This is a big problem that we need to solve.

Another political issue is corruption. Some people in power use their position for their own benefit, not for the good of the people. This is wrong and it harms society. We need to fight against corruption to make our world better.

Social issues are problems that affect people in society. One example is poverty. Many people in the world do not have enough money to live a good life. They struggle to get food, shelter, and education. This is a sad reality that we need to change.

Another social issue is discrimination. Some people are treated badly because they are different. This can be because of their skin color, their gender, their age, their religion, or other things. Discrimination is not fair and it hurts people. We need to respect and value everyone’s differences.

Our environment is facing many challenges. One of them is climate change. The world is getting warmer and this is causing problems like more extreme weather and rising sea levels. This is a big threat to our planet and we need to take action to stop it.

Another environmental issue is pollution. Many places in the world are dirty and polluted. This is bad for our health and for the health of the planet. We need to clean up our environment and stop polluting it.

Technology is changing our lives in many ways. But it also brings some problems. One issue is privacy. With so much information online, it is hard to keep our personal data safe. We need to find ways to protect our privacy in the digital world.

Another technological issue is the digital divide. Not everyone has access to the internet and digital devices. This is not fair and it can make it harder for people to learn and work. We need to make sure that everyone can benefit from technology.

Contemporary issues are important topics that we need to understand and address. By learning about these issues, we can work together to solve them and make our world a better place. Remember, change starts with understanding and action.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

  • Essay on Consumer Rights
  • Essay on Consumer Culture
  • Essay on Conservation Of Animals

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130 + best current event essay topics & current event essay example, bob cardens.

  • July 29, 2022

This article covers a list over 130 Current Event Essay Topics and a Current Event Essay Example. It also discusses the ho to choose a Current Event Essay Topic that best fits your interests.

Current events essays are common assignments given by English professors which means learning to write them is a key to passing and succeeding in English class. Writing an essay may seem like a simple assignment, but when it is due tomorrow, a blank word document and piles of books can seem paralyzing.

What You'll Learn

Current Event Essay

A current events essay is a written description of a recent situation, issue, or happening. Current events essays are often assigned by English professors as a way to teach students about the research, writing, and editing process.

Properties of Current Events Essays

  • Are written in standard essay format
  • Include in-text citations and follow a specific citation format
  • Summarize a recent or upcoming event known to the public

You may also be interested to read about Argumentative business essay topics

How to choose your topic

Sometimes a current events essay assignment will provide specific instructions about what topic to write about.

Other times, students will have more flexibility in choosing a topic. Be sure to carefully review your assignment’s rubric and instructions.

If you will be choosing your own topic, make note of the following before you narrow down topic choices:

1. Do the instructions place any time constraints on your topic? In other words, does your current event have to be something that happened within the last year or can it be something that happened five years ago?

2. Does your topic need to relate to a specific industry or genre such as politics, sports, or business?

3. Are there any analytical components that are supposed to be addressed by your essay or are it purely descriptive?

How to Research Efficiently

Tackling the research process can, no doubt, feel a bit intimidating. Here are some basic steps for getting started:

1. Know how many sources you will need  so that you can allow enough time to research.

2. Choose credible sources.  This will depend on the instructions you are given. some professors allow business or media articles while others will only want scholarly sources.

3. Know exactly what you are looking for  before you start your research. Jot down three or four main bullet points of what you will be looking for while you are researching.

Think of these points like a road map. They will guide your reading so you know what passages will be relevant to your paper.

Usually, you will be looking for information that relates to the  What, Where, When, Who, Why,  and  How  aspects of your topic.

Best Current Event Essay Topics

Politics current event essay topics.

  • How will Black Lives Matter affect the 2020 elections?
  • Should the police be defunded?
  • How is the Trump presidency changing international relationships?
  • How should the U.S. respond to cyber hacking by Russia, China, and other countries?
  • Should the United States raise the minimum wage for workers?
  • How can cities in the U.S. be better designed to create a safer and more economically productive community?
  • Is the U.S. economy becoming stronger or weaker?
  • How will COVID-19 change working in America? Around the world?
  • Getting “off the grid” is a current trend. What is the benefit of becoming self-sufficient? Is it worth the cost?
  • Does better health care for everyone make a better and stronger economy in the U.S.?
  • Does it make sense to give U.S. citizenship to all babies born in the United States?
  • Gallup polls show that Americans view Unemployment and the economy as the top problem in the United States. Does evidence suggest they are right?
  • What are the different sides of the current debate over immigration reform in the U.S.?
  • Does the United States have a good or a poor educational system compared to the rest of the world?
  • How important is it to reduce the Federal budget deficit?
  • What will be the most important issues in the next Presidential election cycle?
  • What is causing the increasingly high cost of healthcare in the United States?
  • Should the U.S. continue using drone strikes against terrorists?
  • How is the current U.S. drought going to affect the fire season and food supply?
  • Should the death penalty be outlawed throughout the U.S.?
  • Should the U.S. aggressively work to change towards alternative energies like solar and wind power?
  • What is the best way to create new jobs in the United States to get people back to work?
  • Is the United States responsible for keeping peace around the world? What role should the U.S. play in preventing or intervening in wars and abusive governments?
  • Should the United States fund college education more for people? What should be the rules for the repayment of loans?
  • Should the United States make it easier for educated people or people with valuable skills to immigrate to the United States?
  • How can the Borders of the United States be made more secure? How important is border security?
  • Should it be easier for people to become United States citizens?
  • What infrastructure projects should be the top domestic priority in the United States?
  • How has the high incarceration rate in the United States affected the economy? What Federal and State policies have driven up this incarceration rate?
  • How has the Black Lives Matter movement affected the debate about racism in the United States?

You may also be interested to read about Argumentative Essay Topics about Social Media

Sports Current Event Essay Topics

  • Should sports teams play to empty stands rather than not play at all?
  • How will COVID-19 affect sports in the future?
  • Should college football players receive a salary or other compensation for their playing?
  • Should the owner of a professional team be held accountable for the comments he makes in a private conversation?
  • Is it worth it for a city to invest in building a bigger and better stadium for its professional sports team?
  • What is the value of a college sports team for a college? How does this help the college in terms of getting financial support from alumni? Attracting students? Supporting the economy of their community?
  • What is the difference between sports and entertainment?
  • How have new technologies made by watching sports different? Is the experience of watching sports better or worse than it was before?
  • Which is more interesting to watch, college or professional sports?
  • What sports should be taken out or added to the Olympic games?
  • Should performance-enhancing drugs be allowed in sports? What should be the rules about these drugs? Should athletes who used them in the past before they were outlawed be prevented from being entered into Hall of Fame?
  • Is racism in sports a problem?
  • Should athletes protest racism in America by not participating in the National Anthem or Pledge of Allegiance?
  • Is participating in organized sports a good or bad idea for young people?
  • Is it better for young people to specialize in one sport from a young age? Or should they try a variety of sports?
  • Choose your favorite sport. What is the best way for coaches to identify the best talent in their specific sport? Are there better ways to pick a team?
  • How much of a role do parents play in developing top talent in their children? What is the best way parents can help develop their children’s sports career? What are the worst mistakes parents make?
  • Can fan-owned teams solve sports problems?

World Issues Current Event Essay Topics

  • How will COVID-19 change the world economy?
  • Is WHO and organization that provides the information we can trust?
  • Is the International Space Station a good way to bridge differences between nations, or is it vulnerable to become a political tool?
  • Are we heading towards a 3rd World War?
  • Is N.A.T.O. and an effective organization?
  • How can the International Community prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons? How important is it that Iran not be allowed nuclear weaponry?
  • What is the effect on Africa on the fact that many children have been forced to be soldiers?
  • Is the EU going to survive the current economic problems countries have been having? Should the EU nations separate their economies?
  • Is violence along the border of Mexico getting better?
  • How can ethnic killings be stopped in Sudan?
  • Is China easing up in restrictions for Religion or not? Are human rights better or worse in China than in the past?
  • Should women’s issues be more important in international affairs?
  • Is China about to overtake the United States economically?
  • What is the effect of piracy on the stability of world commerce? How important is it to stop African pirates?
  • Is there a better way to fight the war against drugs internationally?
  • Is China starting to deal with their pollution problem?
  • How has social media helped positively influence the world?
  • Is India a poor nation or an emerging superpower?
  • How can we stop the world population from reaching 9 billion in 2050? Is it important to work to limit world population growth?
  • Should the world follow Bhutan’s development model?
  • How healthy is the Indian Judicial System?
  • Why do African nations have so many civil wars?
  • Has foreign aid hurt Africa more than helping it?
  • How has the influence of western media hurt underdeveloped nations?
  • Does Colonialism still affect the nations that were colonized? Pick a nation and explain the continuing problems in that nation due to the history of being colonized.

Health and Medicine Current Event EssayTopics

  • What can we do to better prepare ourselves for pandemics in the future?
  • What are the lessons the medical community will learn from COVID-19?
  • Are E-Cigarettes less harmful than smoking?
  • Why do people oppose the Affordable Care Act?
  • Does spending time on media cause children to have mental health problems?
  • How is the job of frontline health workers like pharmacists, nurses, and doctors going to change?
  • Is it possible to get AIDS infection rates to zero?
  • What is preventing the world from eradicating polio?
  • How are new technologies changing health care?
  • What are the current trends in research about helping people break out of addictive behaviors?
  • Traditional Chinese Medicine birth practices like eating the placenta (which in Western countries is usually encapsulated by being steamed dried and ground into pills) are becoming popular among some celebrities. What is the benefit of this practice? Is there any scientific evidence it works?
  • Does making a city a “no smoking zone” really benefit health? Does it stop people from smoking, or help them quit? Does it result in fewer smokers in that city?
  • What is the best diet for people with heart disease in their family history?
  • The length of the average life continues to increase. What does current research say about the best lifestyle for someone who wants to live to be 100?
  • Research is finding that what we think a medicine or food will do sometimes affects the way our body reacts. What is the evidence that our mind controls our body?
  • Current health food trends include eating “superfoods” or going “gluten-free.” Take a current food trend and investigate the scientific evidence that this helps people have better health.
  • What is the benefit of taking a daily low dose of Aspirin for older people?

As you continue, thestudycorp.com has the top and most qualified writers to help with any of your assignments. All you need to do is  place an order  with us. (Current Event Essay Topics )

Current event essay topics

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Media and Entertainment Current Event Essay Topics

  • How has Twitter changed Entertainment news? What are the most recent scandals made bigger because of Tweets?
  • Is it inevitable that teenage stars eventually turn to drugs, alcohol, or other destructive behavior?
  • Are female stars fighting back effectively against being judged by their looks, and especially by their weight?
  • Which celebrity does the best job of seeming to be authentic? Is there a celebrity who seems to be as nice as they appear? How can fans know?
  • How have shows like “Project Runway” influenced fashion? Have they motivated people to become more creative and personal in what they wear?
  • In what way does the attention of the media on religious figures like The Pope affect the way they behave?
  • Are the recent Christian movies helping win the culture wars?
  • Why are cooking shows like “Chopped” popular?
  • What is the best recent film adapted from a novel?
  • What are the best movies in the current year? Do the Academy Awards winners reflect the very best movies?
  • Is recap culture hurting television?
  • Recently, scripts from pro-wrestling have been released showing that the storyline is written even though the wrestling is improved. Analyze how pro-wrestling is similar to other forms of live or taped entertainment.
  • Which current actors from Bollywood or other film industry outside of the U.S. seem most likely to make it big in Hollywood?
  • Does getting involved in a scandal hurt or help a celebrity’s career?
  • Does being on American Idol, The Voice or other singing contest help an artist’s career? Do winners do better than other contestants?
  • Pick one of the current Reality T.V. shows to investigate. How “Real” are these shows? What is done for entertainment value more than for depicting real life? Do these shows hurt or help the people on them?

Controversial Issues Current Event Essay Topics

  • Affirmative Action
  • Alternative medicine
  • America’s global influence
  • Artificial intelligence
  • Assisted suicide
  • Bilingual education
  • Capital punishment
  • Charter schools
  • Childhood obesity
  • Civil rights
  • Climate change
  • Cryptocurrency
  • Cyber bullying
  • Drug legalization
  • Eating disorders
  • Factory farming
  • Foreign aid
  • Freedom of speech
  • Genetic engineering
  • Health insurance
  • Immigration
  • Labor unions
  • Minimum wage
  • Nuclear energy
  • Organic food
  • Offshore drilling
  • Outsourcing
  • Racial profiling
  • Reparations
  • Screen addiction
  • Self-driving cars
  • Sex education
  • Smart speakers
  • Social security
  • Standardized testing
  • Urban agriculture
  • Violence in the media
  • Women’s rights
  • Zero tolerance policies

Current Event Essay Example

The negative social impacts of “tomorrowland music festival” essay.

“Tomorrowland” is among the biggest global music events that were first launched in 2005. Despite the benefits of this festival for the local community, such as increased economic activity and employment, “Tomorrowland” has also been criticized for the presence of drugs on-site, the issues with cleaning up the location after the festival, local community’s quality of life, and noise pollution.

According to Turner (2017), during events such as Tomorrowland, “police generally occupy a low-key role at festivals with a focus on the seizure of drugs, rather than arrests” (241). Hence, the youth attending this event is exposed to drugs and seeing people around them be under the influence.

Another issue with Tomorrowland is the effect that this festival has on the local community. According to Pavluković et al. (2018), the governments and organizers of festivals usually cite the economic benefits of these events but fail to acknowledge the discomfort the locals feel. An obvious environmental impact is trash left behind by the visitors, which requires the administration of the festival to invest in clearing the site after “Tomorrowland” is over.

Adbulredha et al. (2017) argue that major music festivals generate substantial quantities of solid waste, an estimated “0.89 kg per guest” (p. 388). This problem affects the environment negatively since this waste includes non-recyclable objects or items that need to be collected and send for recycling.

Finally, noise pollution due to the powerful sound systems used by “Tomorrowland’s” performers, which can affect the hearing of the people attending the festival and cause discomfort to the community members, is also a problem.

Overall, although “Tomorrowland” is an important cultural event that has multiple benefits, it also endangers the youth and the environment and causes discomfort for the locals.

Abdulredha, M., Al Khaddar, R., Jordan, D., Kot, P., Abdulridha, A., & Hashim, K. (2018). Estimating solid waste generation by hospitality industry during major festivals: A quantification model based on multiple regression.  Waste Management, 77 , 388-400. Web.

Pavluković V., Armenski T., Alcántara-Pilar J.M. (2019) The impact of music festivals on local communities and their quality of life: Comparation of Serbia and Hungary. In A. Campón-Cerro A., J. Hernández-Mogollón, & J. Folgado-Fernández (Eds.), Best practices in hospitality and tourism marketing and management. Applying quality of life research (pp. 217-237). Springer.

Turner, T. (2017). Space, drugs and Disneyfication. An Ethnography of British youth in Ibiza. [Doctoral dissertation, Coventry University]. CURVE.

You can also check out Best Classification Essay Topics 

Related FAQs

1. what are the components of a current events essay.

A well-written, “current events essay” has four main components: Research: Make sure that you’re getting your news from a reputable source. Online news sources like Google News and any national news syndication Web site are good, convenient sources from which to gather reputable information and compile research data.

2. How to write a narrative discussion analysis article about current events?

The eply a narrative discussion analysis article, Current Event, include: (1)’s significance, relevance, relationship PUBLIC ADMINISTATION, (2) student’s opinion article’s public administration issue / problem, (3) supported (4) -text reference citations pages text 300 words.

3. How to write an essay about a recent event?

Select a recent article. Your task is to write about a current event; therefore, you have to choose the material that is one or two days old, maximum, one week old. The topic must be appropriate.

4. How to write a summary for a current event assignment?

Choose an article that is fresh since the assignment is to write about a current event. In addition, choose an article on the correct topic and make sure that the article gives enough information. Prepare to write the summary by reading the entire article.

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Essay On Social Issues

500 words essay on social issues.

Social Issues is an undesirable state which opposes society or a certain part of society. It refers to an unwanted situation that frequently results in problems and continues to harm society . Social issues can cause a lot of problems that can be beyond the control of just one person. Through an essay on social issues, we will learn why they are harmful and what types of social issues we face.

Essay On Social Issues

Drawbacks of Social Issues

Social issues have a lot of drawbacks that harms our society. They are situations that have an adverse and damaging result on our society. They arise when the public leaves nature or society from an ideal situation.

If you look closely, you will realize that almost all types of social issues have common origins. In the sense that they all are interconnected somehow. Meaning to say, if one solves the other one is also most likely to resolve.

Social issues have a massive lousy effect on our society and ultimately, it affects all of us. In order to solve some social issues, we need a common approach. No society is free from social issues, almost every one of them has some social issue or the other.

For instance, in India, you will find a lot of social issues which the country is facing. It ranges from the caste system to child labour and gender inequality to religious conflicts. Thus, we are going through a critical time where we all must come together to free our society from undesirable social evils.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Major Social Issues

There are a lot of social issues we are facing right now, some more prominent than the others. First of all, poverty is a worldwide issue. It gives birth to a lot of other social issues which we must try to get away with at the earliest.

Further, countries like India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and more are facing the issue of the caste system since times unknown. It results in a lot of caste violence and inequality which takes the lives of many on a daily basis.

Moreover, child labour is another major social issue that damages the lives of young children. Similarly, illiteracy also ruins the lives of many by destroying their chances of a bright future.

In developing countries mostly, child marriage still exists and is responsible for ruining many lives. Similarly, dowry is a very serious and common social issue that almost all classes of people partake in.

Another prominent social issue is gender inequality which takes away many opportunities from deserving people. Domestic violence especially against women is a serious social issue we must all fight against.

Other social issues include starvation, child sex abuse, religious conflicts, child trafficking, terrorism , overpopulation, untouchability, communalism and many more. It is high time we end these social issues.

Conclusion of the Essay on Social Issues

A society can successfully end social issues if they become adamant. These social issues act as a barrier to the progress of society. Thus, we must all come together to fight against them and put them to an end for the greater good.

FAQ on Essay on Social Issues

Question 1: What is the meaning of social problem?

Answer 1: A social problem refers to any condition or behaviour which has a negative impact on a large number of people. It is normally recognized as a condition or behaviour that needs to be addressed.

Question 2: What are the effects of social issues?

Answer 2: Social issues affect our society adversely. Most importantly, it disturbs the harmony of society and gives rise to hostility and suspicion. Moreover, it creates large-scale social dissatisfaction, suffering and misery.

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839 Social Issues Essay Topics, Lists, & Good Ideas

18 January 2024

last updated

Social issues essay topics mean contemporary matters that affect society at large. They encompass many subjects, including poverty, racial and gender inequality, LGBTQ+ rights, immigration, climate change, and gun control. These topics offer an in-depth exploration of societal constructs, systems, and beliefs that shape the human world, encouraging critical thinking and fostering empathy toward diverse perspectives. Moreover, discussing hot issues allows people to identify societal imbalances and injustices while proposing solutions for a better and inclusive future. Thus, social issues essay topics can foster personal growth, broaden horizons, and serve as a platform to initiate dialogue and action on pressing problems or challenges in the global community.

Best Social Issues Essay Topics

  • Racial Profiling and Its Impact on Modern Society
  • Addressing Gender Inequality in the Workplace
  • Implications of Cyberbullying in the Digital Age
  • The Effect of Mass Media on Body Image
  • Balancing Privacy Rights and National Security in Surveillance
  • Modern-Day Human Trafficking: A Hidden Crime
  • Climate Change: Examining Environmental Racism
  • Immigration Policies: Social and Economic Impacts
  • Cultural Appropriation in Fashion and Entertainment
  • Violence in Video Games: Correlation to Real-World Aggression
  • Youth Unemployment: A Rising Social Issue
  • Religious Freedom vs. Societal Safety: The Thin Line
  • Universal Basic Income: Solution for Poverty?
  • Decriminalizing Drugs: The Portuguese Model
  • Impacts of Technological Advancements on the Job Market
  • Examining the Glass Ceiling Phenomenon
  • Body Shaming: A Social Media Issue
  • Exploring Mental Health Stigma in Society
  • Consumerism and Its Effect on Climate Change
  • Evaluating LGBTQ+ Rights Across Different Cultures
  • Dissecting the Prison Industrial Complex in the US
  • Effects of Single-Parenting on Child Development
  • Social Implications of Genetically Modified Organisms
  • Income Inequality: Impacts on Health and Longevity
  • Discrimination in the Housing Market: A Hidden Problem

Easy Social Issues Essay Topics

  • Economic Consequences of Child Labor
  • Substance Abuse: A Social or Medical Issue?
  • Ageism and Its Impact on Employment Opportunities
  • Cybersecurity Threats: A Growing Social Concern
  • The Digital Divide: Rural vs. Urban Internet Access
  • Child Obesity: The Role of School Meals
  • Modern Slavery: A Global Issue Hidden in Plain Sight
  • Understanding the Roots of Homelessness in Developed Countries
  • Food Insecurity in First-World Nations: Causes and Consequences
  • Influence of Social Media on Political Polarization
  • Effects of Fast Fashion on Third-World Workers
  • Assisted Suicide: Ethical Dilemma or Human Right?
  • Transgender Rights in Sports: A Critical Examination
  • Terrorism and Its Impact on Social Cohesion
  • Stereotypes and their Influence on Criminal Justice
  • Understanding Social Exclusion in Public Schools
  • Internet Censorship: Freedom of Speech vs. National Security
  • Affordable Housing Crisis and Its Social Implications
  • GMOs: A Solution for World Hunger or an Ecological Disaster?
  • Social and Economic Impacts of Automation on Manufacturing Jobs
  • Cultural Relativism: Understanding Human Rights Across Different Societies
  • Privacy Issues Arising From Facial Recognition Technology
  • Parental Rights vs. Child Protection in Medical Decisions
  • Disability Discrimination in Employment: A Silent Crisis

839 Social Issues Essay Topics, Lists, & Good Ideas

Interesting Social Issues Essay Topics

  • Social Impacts of Modernization on Indigenous Communities
  • Stigmatization of Sex Work: Society’s View and Legal Status
  • Animal Rights: Ethical Concerns Surrounding Factory Farming
  • Influence of Television on Children’s Behavioral Development
  • Political Corruption: Effects on Social Trust and Development
  • Internet Addiction: A 21st Century Mental Health Issue
  • Food Deserts: Addressing Urban Nutritional Inequality
  • Ethical Dilemmas in Biomedical Engineering and Cloning
  • Social Consequences of Aging Populations in Developed Countries
  • Regulating Big Tech: Balancing Innovation and Privacy
  • Analyzing Sexism in the Advertising Industry
  • Impacts of Remote Work on Social Interaction and Mental Health
  • Capital Punishment: A Justified Measure or a Human Rights Violation?
  • Global Water Crisis: Social and Health Impacts
  • Adoption Laws: Discrimination Against Single and LGBTQ+ Parents
  • Refugees and Asylum Seekers: A Humanitarian or Security Issue?
  • Waste Management: Social and Environmental Implications
  • The Role of Education in Preventing Youth Crime
  • Social Implications of Autonomous Vehicles on Traffic and Employment
  • Cultural Impacts of Westernization in Non-Western Countries
  • Animal Assisted Therapy: Evaluating Benefits and Ethical Concerns
  • Euthanasia: Medical, Legal, and Ethical Perspectives

Social Issues Research Topics

  • Misinformation Spread: Impacts on Democracy and Public Health
  • Child Soldiers: An Unresolved Global Crisis
  • Identity Theft: The Growing Concern in Digital Age
  • Pandemic and Its Impact on Mental Health
  • Reality TV: Influence on Perception of Body Image and Relationships
  • Genetic Engineering: Balancing Potential Benefits and Ethical Concerns
  • Deconstructing Toxic Masculinity: A Psychological Perspective
  • Roles of Non-Governmental Organizations in Social Change
  • Media’s Influence on Perception of Police Brutality
  • Importance of Financial Literacy in Youth Empowerment
  • Addressing Period Poverty: The Hidden Barrier to Education
  • Sports and Nationalism: The Social Impact of International Competitions
  • Intersectionality in Feminism: Need for Inclusion in Activism
  • Childhood Vaccinations: Public Health Necessity or Parental Choice?
  • Social Media Influencers: Impacts on Youth and Consumer Behavior
  • Obesity Epidemic: Fast Food Industry’s Responsibility
  • Parenting Styles and Their Effect on Child’s Mental Health
  • Impacts of Microfinance on Poverty Alleviation
  • Cyberstalking: The Hidden Dangers of the Internet
  • Juvenile Delinquency: Factors and Prevention Strategies
  • Examining the Ethical Implications of Human Cloning
  • The Changing Dynamics of Family Structure in Modern Society
  • Online Education: Impacts on Accessibility and Quality of Learning

Social Argumentative Essay Topics

  • Analyzing the Impact of Cyberbullying on Teen Mental Health
  • Evaluating Measures for Reducing Plastic Waste in Urban Areas
  • Addressing Racial Profiling Within Law Enforcement Agencies
  • The Role of Affordable Housing in Mitigating Homelessness
  • Necessity for Implementing Universal Basic Income
  • Exploring the Efficacy of Gun Control Legislation
  • Harnessing Technology for Elderly Care: An Imperative Approach
  • Balancing Freedom of Speech With Hate Speech Regulations
  • Prioritizing LGBTQ+ Rights in Contemporary Societies
  • Reforming Education Systems to Promote Equality
  • Human Trafficking: A Global Challenge Requiring Immediate Action
  • The Growing Threat of Food Insecurity in Developed Nations
  • Combatting Domestic Violence: Effectiveness of Current Legal Measures
  • The Stigma Around Mental Health and Its Societal Impact
  • Mandatory Vaccinations: A Necessary Evil or a Personal Choice?
  • Unveiling Hidden Poverty in Affluent Societies
  • Addressing Racial Disparities in Health Care Delivery
  • Gender Pay Gap: A Persistent Social Issue
  • Bridging the Digital Divide: Strategies and Solutions
  • Potential Dangers of Unregulated AI Technologies
  • Climate Change Denial: An Analysis of Its Sociopolitical Impact
  • Child Labor in Developing Countries: Causes and Solutions
  • Public Health Challenges of Obesity in Children
  • Socioeconomic Impacts of Drug Addiction

Persuasive Speech Topics on Social Issues

  • Restorative Justice as a Solution to Overcrowded Prisons
  • Empowering Women Through Microfinance in Developing Countries
  • Environmental Racism: An Underexplored Aspect of Social Inequality
  • Suicide Rates Among Veterans: A Hidden Crisis
  • Implementing Sustainable Practices in Urban Development
  • The Effect of Advertising on Consumerism and Waste Generation
  • Systemic Bias in the Workplace: A Closer Look
  • Income Inequality: Examining the Effects on Social Mobility
  • Substance Abuse Prevention Programs in Schools
  • The Consequences of Child Neglect on Future Generations
  • Addressing Stigmatization of HIV/AIDS Patients
  • Ethical Issues Surrounding Assisted Suicide Legislation
  • The Role of Social Structures in Perpetuating Poverty
  • Evaluating the Impact of Religious Discrimination on Society
  • The Influence of Socioeconomic Status on Academic Achievement
  • Advocacy for Animal Rights in Modern Industrial Farming
  • Transgender Rights: Overcoming Legal and Social Barriers
  • The Effect of Climate Change on Global Poverty
  • Exploring Ethical Issues in Genetic Engineering
  • Refugees and Asylum Seekers: A Challenge for Global Cooperation
  • Accessibility Challenges in Public Transportation for Disabled Individuals
  • Overcoming Barriers to Mental Health Services for Marginalized Communities
  • Addressing Child Malnutrition in Low-Income Countries

Social Issues Essay Topics on Abortion

  • Historical Perspectives on Abortion Laws Globally
  • Ethical Dilemmas: The Clash Between Personal Beliefs and Abortion
  • Abortion Stigma: Understanding Its Roots and Effects
  • Abortion and Religion: A Complex Intersection
  • Public Policies Impacting Abortion Rights: A Comparative Analysis
  • Emotional Consequences Experienced Post-Abortion
  • Legal Implications of Restrictive Abortion Laws
  • Safeguarding Women’s Health: The Role of Safe Abortion Services
  • Evaluating the Economic Factors That Influence Abortion Decisions
  • Exploring Medical Advancements in Abortion Procedures
  • Adolescents and Abortion: Addressing the Legal and Social Implications
  • Diverse Perspectives on Abortion: A Multicultural Examination
  • Understanding the Relationship Between Abortion and Mental Health
  • The Battle Between Pro-Life and Pro-Choice: An Ongoing Debate
  • Sex Education’s Influence on Abortion Rates
  • Roles of Feminism in the Fight for Abortion Rights
  • Medical Ethics and Abortion: A Critical Examination
  • Abortion’s Societal Impact: A Quantitative Study
  • Dissecting the Stance of Various Political Parties on Abortion
  • Access to Abortion Services: Disparity in Urban and Rural Areas

Social Issues Essay Topics on Animal Rights & Animal Welfare

  • Unveiling the Truth: Animal Testing in Cosmetic Industries
  • Captivity vs. Conservation: The Dilemma of Zoos
  • From Farm to Plate: The Reality of Factory Farming
  • Whales in Danger: Consequences of Commercial Whaling
  • Shedding Light on Fur Trade: Ethical Concerns and Alternatives
  • Animal Rights in Fashion: Examining the Use of Leather
  • Exploring Ethical Dimensions: Use of Animals in Medical Research
  • Wild At Heart: The Controversy Surrounding Trophy Hunting
  • Lessons from Wildlife: The Impact of Habitat Destruction
  • Outlawing Animal Cruelty: Legislation Across Different Countries
  • Paws in Pain: The Distressing World of Puppy Mills
  • Silent Sufferers: Effects of Climate Change on Animals
  • Revealing the Dark Side: Illegal Animal Trade and Smuggling
  • Spotlight on Animal Welfare: Importance of Veterinary Care
  • Fins at Risk: Shark Finning and Its Ecological Consequences
  • The Stolen Freedom: Circuses and Animal Entertainment Industry
  • Livestock’s Long Journey: Animal Welfare in Transport
  • Animal Rights vs. Religious Customs: A Delicate Balance
  • Raising Awareness: The Role of Media in Animal Rights
  • Laying Bare: The Deplorable Conditions of Animal Shelters
  • Elephant Tusk Trade: A Dire Threat to Biodiversity

Consumption & Development Social Issues Topics

  • Inequities in Global Resource Distribution: The Ethical Dilemma
  • Technological Progress: Is It a Boon or a Bane for Sustainable Consumption?
  • The Dark Side of Fast Fashion: Exploitation and Waste
  • Climate Change: Impact on Global Food Security and Consumption
  • E-Waste Management: Solutions for a Growing Global Concern
  • Plastic Pollution: Analyzing Current Measures and Future Alternatives
  • Economic Growth versus Environmental Conservation: Can They Coexist?
  • Unchecked Tourism: Deciphering Its Impact on Natural Resources
  • Overpopulation and Consumption: The Unsustainable Global Footprint
  • Modern Agriculture’s Roles in Overconsumption and Soil Degradation
  • Fast Food Culture: A Critical Look at Health and Environment
  • Socioeconomic Disparities: How Do They Influence Consumption Patterns?
  • The Rise of Electric Vehicles: Assessing Environmental Impact and Sustainability
  • Impacts of Consumerism on Mental Health: Unmasking the Materialistic Culture
  • Consumption in the Digital Age: E-Commerce and Its Environmental Consequences
  • Urban Sprawl: Analyzing Its Effects on Natural Resources and Wildlife
  • Influences of Advertising on Consumer Behavior: A Critical Analysis
  • Access to Clean Water: A Global Crisis of Consumption and Pollution
  • Global Supply Chains: Assessing Labor Exploitation and Sustainability
  • The Role of Government Policies in Controlling Resource Overconsumption

Social Issues Topics on Cultural Appropriation & Stereotyping

  • Identifying the Line Between Cultural Appreciation and Cultural Appropriation
  • Stereotypes and Their Impact on Multicultural Relationships
  • Consequences of Racial Stereotypes in Media Representation
  • Commercialization and Exploitation of Indigenous Artifacts: Is It Cultural Appropriation?
  • Stereotyping in Advertising: A Social Issue Worth Investigating
  • Cultural Appropriation in the Fashion Industry: A Matter of Concern?
  • Dissecting the Influence of Stereotypes on Academic Achievement
  • Roles of Stereotyping in Gender Bias and Discrimination
  • Music Genres: The Unseen Consequences of Cultural Appropriation
  • Stereotypes in Children’s Books: Effects on Young Minds
  • Influence of Cultural Appropriation on Traditional Cuisine and Recipes
  • Roles of Stereotyping in Perpetuating Social Inequalities
  • Cultural Appropriation in Yoga and Mindfulness Practices: Is It Problematic?
  • Examination of Racial Stereotypes in Sports and Athletics
  • Analyzing the Consequences of Cultural Appropriation in Hair and Beauty Trends
  • Impact of Stereotyping on Mental Health and Self-Esteem
  • Cultural Appropriation in Hollywood: Does It Harm or Help Cultural Understanding?
  • Stereotypes in Video Games: Reflection of Society or Cause of Bias?
  • Ethics of Cultural Appropriation in Literature and Fiction
  • Stereotyping in Job Interviews: Its Effect on Employment Opportunities
  • Linguistic Stereotypes and Their Consequences on Communication

Social Issues Topics on Cultural Property

  • Protection of Indigenous Artifacts: Upholding Cultural Integrity
  • Ethics of Art Repatriation: Addressing Historical Injustices
  • National Museums’ Roles in Preserving Cultural Property
  • Legislation Governing Cultural Heritage: An International Perspective
  • Exploitation of Cultural Resources: Implications for Native Communities
  • Antiquities Trade and Cultural Property: A Critical Analysis
  • Cultural Patrimony: The Need for Enhanced International Cooperation
  • Digitization of Cultural Property: Challenges and Opportunities
  • Illicit Traffic of Cultural Goods: A Global Concern
  • Respecting Intangible Heritage: Measures for Cultural Safeguarding
  • Modern Architecture as Cultural Property: Preservation Challenges
  • Safeguarding Underwater Heritage: Issues in Maritime Archaeology
  • War Effects on Cultural Heritage: A Case Study
  • Postcolonial Dynamics in Cultural Property Ownership
  • Religious Institutions and the Preservation of Cultural Property
  • Consequences of Tourism on Cultural Sites and Artifacts
  • Climate Change Impact on Cultural Heritage Sites
  • Archaeological Excavations: Ethical Considerations in Cultural Property Handling
  • Historical Sites and Urban Development: A Balancing Act
  • Sacred Objects Repatriation: Ethical Dilemmas

Current Social Issues Topics in America

  • Unequal Access to Healthcare: A Crisis in American Communities
  • Evaluating the Implications of Police Reform Movements
  • Climate Change and Its Effect on US Coastal Cities
  • Dissecting the Racial Disparities in American Public Education
  • Homelessness Crisis: Solutions and Strategies for American Urban Areas
  • Obesity Epidemic: America’s Unseen Public Health Dilemma
  • Addressing the Wage Gap: Women’s Fight for Economic Equality
  • The Struggle for LGBTQ+ Rights and Recognition in America
  • Cybersecurity Threats: The Invisible War on American Infrastructure
  • Investigating the Opioid Epidemic: Its Socioeconomic Ramifications
  • The Future of Immigration Policy and Its Impact on American Society
  • Free Speech vs. Hate Speech: Striking a Balance in the Digital Age
  • Childhood Obesity: A Growing Issue in American Society
  • Veterans’ Struggles: The Unaddressed Trauma and Its Consequences
  • Gun Control and Second Amendment Rights: A Polarizing Debate
  • The Role of Technology in Exacerbating Income Inequality
  • Confronting Racism in American Sports: A Silent Scourge
  • Democracy and Disinformation: The Threat of Fake News
  • Youth Suicide Rates: The Silent Epidemic in American Schools
  • Implications of Artificial Intelligence on the American Job Market
  • Challenges Facing Indigenous Peoples: Reservations, Rights, and Resources

Social Issues Essay Topics on Disability & Accessibility

  • The Role of Universal Design in Fostering Inclusivity
  • Exploring the Physical Barriers That Hinder Accessibility
  • The Effect of Societal Attitudes on Disability Acceptance
  • Modern Technology’s Impacts on Accessibility for the Disabled
  • Employment Opportunities and Disability: A Global Perspective
  • Understanding Disability Representation in Media
  • Disability Rights Movements: Their Evolution and Impact
  • Societal Implications of Disability Stereotypes
  • Investigating the Intersectionality of Disability and Race
  • Disabilities and Education: Tackling Systemic Challenges
  • Mental Health and Its Relation to Disability
  • Accessibility in Public Transportation: An Unsolved Problem
  • Sports Participation and Its Significance for Disabled Individuals
  • Chronic Illness: Unseen Disabilities and Societal Perception
  • Inadequacies in Health Care Services for People With Disabilities
  • The Influence of Disability on Social Identity
  • Assessing the Current State of Assistive Technology
  • Cultural Perspectives on Disability: A Comparative Study
  • Barriers to Effective Disability Legislation: Overcoming Challenges
  • Disability Advocacy: Celebrating Prominent Figures and Their Contributions

Social Issues Topics on Discrimination & Prejudice

  • Unraveling the Causes and Consequences of Religious Discrimination in Contemporary Society
  • Ageism in the Workplace: An Overlooked Issue in the Modern Professional Environment
  • Investigating Homophobia: The Role of Media in Shaping Attitudes Toward the LGBTQ+ Community
  • Ethnic Prejudice in Education: Analysis of Its Impact on Minority Students’ Performance
  • Stereotypes in Advertising: Their Influence on Consumer Perception and Bias
  • Discrimination Against Immigrants: Exploring Its Socioeconomic Consequences
  • Intersectionality: The Complex Overlay of Gender, Race, and Class Discrimination
  • Roles of Legislation in Reducing Workplace Discrimination: A Comparative Study
  • Body Shaming: Prevalence and Impact on Mental Health in Adolescents
  • Cyberbullying and Online Hate Speech: The New Frontier of Discrimination
  • Colorism: A Forgotten Aspect of Racial Discrimination in Society
  • Disparity in Criminal Sentencing: Examining Racial Bias in the Justice System
  • Prejudice Toward Mental Health: Evaluating Society’s Misunderstandings and Fear
  • Parental Discrimination: The Unseen Prejudice Against Single Fathers in Society
  • Obesity Stigma: The Social and Psychological Impacts of Weight Discrimination
  • Ableism in Popular Media: Effects on Perception of Disabled Individuals
  • Wealth Inequality: The Role of Discrimination in the Widening Socioeconomic Gap
  • Transgender Rights: Unpacking Discrimination in Public Policy and Healthcare
  • Xenophobia and Its Influence on Nationalistic Politics
  • Linguistic Discrimination: The Unaddressed Bias Against Accents and Dialects
  • Socioeconomic Discrimination: Implications for Access to Quality Education

Social Issues Topics About Education & Access to Education

  • Exploring the Digital Divide: Impact on Rural Students’ Access to Education
  • Gender Bias in Educational Resources: A Global Perspective
  • Implications of Socioeconomic Status on Educational Attainment
  • Understanding Disability-Inclusive Policies in Modern Education Systems
  • Effectiveness of Online Learning for Underserved Communities
  • Analyzing Racial Disparities in Standardized Testing
  • Mitigating the Influence of Poverty on Student Performance
  • Unraveling the Impact of Cultural Differences in Bilingual Education
  • Diversity in School Curricula: The Need for Greater Representation
  • Cyberbullying: Its Effect on Student Mental Health and Academic Performance
  • Improving Immigrant Student Assimilation Through Culturally Sensitive Teaching Methods
  • College Affordability: The Rising Student Debt Crisis
  • School-to-Prison Pipeline: Effects of Zero Tolerance Policies
  • Inequalities in Education: Comparing Urban and Rural Schools
  • Reducing High School Dropout Rates: Successful Intervention Strategies
  • Reforming Educational Policies for LGBTQ+ Students
  • Evaluating Mental Health Support in Schools
  • Public vs. Private Education: Impact on Student Success
  • The Role of Technology in Modernizing Classroom Infrastructure
  • Promoting Female Participation in STEM Fields

Environmental Social Issues Topics

  • Consequences of Deforestation on Global Biodiversity
  • Climate Change: Its Impact on Polar Ice Caps
  • Analyzing Plastic Waste: Threats and Alternatives
  • Overpopulation: Evaluating Its Effect on Natural Resources
  • Water Scarcity: A Deep Dive Into Its Global Impact
  • Impacts of Urbanization on Natural Habitats
  • The Significance of Green Architecture in Reducing Carbon Footprint
  • Industrial Pollution: Evaluating Its Effect on Air Quality
  • The Importance of Sustainable Agriculture in Maintaining Soil Health
  • Coral Reefs: Threats and Conservation Strategies
  • Ocean Acidification: The Invisible Climate Threat
  • Endangered Species: Exploring the Role of Poaching
  • Genetic Modification in Agriculture: Boon or Bane for Biodiversity
  • E-Waste Management: A New Global Challenge
  • Pollution Control: Scrutinizing the Efficacy of International Laws
  • Landfill Dilemmas: Exploring the Potential of Waste-to-Energy Technologies
  • Invasive Species: Assessing Their Impact on Native Ecosystems
  • Food Waste: A Hidden Contributor to Greenhouse Gas Emissions
  • Renewable Energy: A Possible Solution to Fossil Fuel Dependence
  • Hydropower Projects: Weighing Environmental Costs Against Energy Benefits
  • Sustainable Tourism: Balancing Economic Growth and Environmental Preservation

Feminism Social Issues Topics

  • Evolution of Feminism in the 21st Century: A Historical Perspective
  • Unveiling the Multidimensional Impact of Cyberfeminism
  • Feminist Literary Criticism: An Examination of Its Influence on Modern Literature
  • Intersectionality: A Pivotal Factor in Feminism
  • Dissecting the Representation of Women in the Media
  • Glass Ceiling Phenomenon: A Feminist Analysis
  • Analysis of Feminism’s Role in Promoting Equal Educational Opportunities
  • Unpacking the Implications of Feminist Legal Theory
  • Unveiling Men’s Roles in the Feminist Movement: A Contemporary Perspective
  • Analysis of Body Positivity: A Feminist Perspective
  • Understanding the Intersection of Feminism and Environmental Justice
  • Exploring the Gender Pay Gap Through the Lens of Feminism
  • Queer Theory and Feminism: An Unfolding Narrative
  • Ecofeminism: An Analysis of Its Relevance in the Modern World
  • Transnational Feminism: Exploring Its Impact on Global Gender Equality
  • Impacts of Feminist Economics on the Global Financial System
  • Dissecting the Influence of Feminist Activism on Social Change
  • Gender Stereotypes: Feminism’s Response to Societal Norms
  • Exploring the Role of Feminism in Promoting Reproductive Rights
  • Comparative Analysis of Feminist Movements Across the Globe

Social Issues Essay Topics About Gender Identity & Transgender

  • Understanding the Struggles of Transgender Teens in Public Schools
  • Intersectionality in the Transgender Community: Race, Class, and Gender
  • Gender Dysphoria: Psychological Perspectives and Treatment Approaches
  • Public Restroom Access: A Crucial Issue for Transgender Individuals
  • Fostering Safe Spaces: Inclusion of Transgender People in Sports
  • Media Representation: Portrayal of Transgender Characters in Film and Television
  • Debunking Myths: Unraveling Misconceptions About Non-Binary Identities
  • Transgender Rights: Analyzing Global Legal Landscapes
  • Queer Theory and Its Influence on Transgender Studies
  • Gender Affirmation Surgeries: Accessibility and Ethical Dilemmas
  • Workplace Discrimination: Challenges Faced by Transgender Employees
  • Religious Perspectives: Understanding Transgender Acceptance in Different Faiths
  • Bias in Healthcare: Addressing Transgender Medical Discrimination
  • Parental Support: Influence on Transgender Youth Mental Health
  • Evolution of Language: The Importance of Pronouns in Transgender Identities
  • Activism’s Role in Advancing Transgender Equality and Justice
  • Fashion Industry: Promoting or Hindering Transgender Inclusivity?
  • Racial Disparities: Exploring Transgender Experiences Within Minority Groups
  • Military Service: Transgender Inclusion and Barriers
  • Legislation Impact: Tracing Changes in Transgender Rights Over Time
  • Education Reform: Incorporating Gender Identity Into School Curriculum

Social Issues Topics About Gun Control & Second Amendment

  • Influences of Media Portrayals on Gun Control Attitudes
  • Evaluating the Effectiveness of Current Gun Control Measures
  • The Second Amendment: A Historical Perspective
  • School Shootings and Proposed Gun Control Solutions
  • Rights of Individuals vs. Societal Safety: A Critical Analysis
  • Roles of Firearms in Domestic Violence Cases
  • Arguments for Stricter Gun Control Laws in the United States
  • Mental Health Considerations in Gun Control Discussions
  • Diverse Opinions on Gun Control: A Comparative Study
  • Gun Control Policies: A Comparative Analysis Between States
  • Perspectives on Concealed Carry Laws Across America
  • Examining the Link Between Gun Ownership and Crime Rates
  • Impacts of Gun Control on Suicide Rates
  • Gun Shows and the Loophole in Gun Control Laws
  • Stand-Your-Ground Laws: An Examination of Gun Rights
  • Gun Control Debate: Rural vs. Urban Perspectives
  • Racial Disparities in Gun Control Enforcement
  • Influence of Political Parties on Gun Control Legislation
  • Constitutional Interpretations of the Second Amendment
  • Gun Control Laws and Their Effect on Hunting Culture

Social Issues Topics About Healthcare & Access to Healthcare

  • Exploring the Implications of Mental Health Stigma in Healthcare Access
  • Impacts of Socioeconomic Status on Quality of Medical Care
  • Evaluating the Role of Education in Preventive Healthcare
  • Assessing Challenges Faced by the Homeless in Obtaining Essential Medical Services
  • Childhood Obesity: Tracing the Societal and Systemic Contributors
  • Unpacking the Barriers to Healthcare in Rural Communities
  • Telemedicine: Assessing its Effect on Health Equity
  • Roles of Health Insurance in Shaping Healthcare Accessibility
  • Gender Disparities in Healthcare: A Critical Examination
  • Health Literacy: Its Influence on Patient-Care Provider Interactions
  • Analyzing the Intersectionality of Race, Gender, and Healthcare Access
  • Effects of Pandemics on Healthcare Inequality
  • Transgender Health: Overcoming Challenges in Access and Understanding
  • The Influence of Immigrant Status on Healthcare Access
  • Comparing Global Health Systems: Lessons for Improved Access
  • Food Insecurity and Its Link to Chronic Health Conditions
  • Reproductive Rights: A Deep Dive Into Accessibility and Quality of Care
  • Tackling Ageism in Health Services: A Study on Elderly Care
  • Health Disparities Among Indigenous Populations: Causes and Solutions
  • Holistic Healthcare: How Accessibility to Alternative Medicine Matters
  • Substance Abuse Treatment: A Study on Access and Stigma

Health-Related Social Issues Essay Topics

  • Stigma Attached to Mental Health Disorders in Society
  • Obesity Epidemic: Societal Factors and Solutions
  • Impacts of Socioeconomic Status on Nutritional Choices
  • Alcoholism and Its Societal Consequences
  • Social Implications of Ageing Population Dynamics
  • Vaccination Hesitancy: A Public Health Crisis
  • Intersection of Racism and Health Inequalities
  • Domestic Violence: Hidden Health Crisis in Homes
  • Effects of Urbanization on Public Health
  • Bullying and Its Influence on Adolescent Mental Health
  • Climate Change: Potential Impact on Global Health
  • Exploring Substance Abuse Within Marginalized Communities
  • Roles of Education in Promoting Sexual Health
  • Chronic Illness and Social Isolation: A Silent Dilemma
  • Investigating the Link Between Poverty and Disease Prevalence
  • Health Insurance: The Great Divide in Medical Access
  • Gender Disparities in Health: Biological or Societal?
  • Exploring the Correlation Between Illiteracy and Poor Health
  • HIV/AIDS Stigmatization: A Barrier to Effective Treatment
  • Roles of Government Policies in Obesity Prevention

Social Issues Essay Topics About Homelessness & Housing Insecurity

  • Addressing the Root Causes of Housing Instability: Poverty and Inequality
  • The Intersection of Race and Homelessness in Society
  • Promoting Social Inclusion for the Homeless Community
  • Innovative Approaches to Sheltering the Unhoused
  • Breaking the Cycle of Homelessness: Rehabilitation Programs
  • Supporting Homeless Veterans: Ensuring Their Well-Being
  • Substance Abuse and Its Impact on Homelessness
  • Rethinking Urban Development to Address Housing Insecurity
  • The Role of Education in Preventing Homelessness
  • Legal Rights and Protections for Individuals Experiencing Homelessness
  • The Link Between Homelessness and Food Scarcity
  • LGBTQ+ Youth Homelessness: Upholding and Supporting Vulnerable Communities
  • Improving Healthcare Access to Reduce Homelessness
  • Overcoming Housing Challenges in Rural Areas
  • Gentrification and Its Effects on Housing Instability
  • Safe Spaces for Homeless Families With Children
  • Homelessness and the Aging Population: Ensuring Support and Dignity
  • Natural Disasters and Their Impact on Housing Insecurity
  • Challenging Stereotypes: Changing Perceptions of Homelessness
  • Collaborative Solutions to Homelessness: Public-Private Partnerships
  • Housing First Approach: A Pathway to Stability

Social Issues Topics About Human Trafficking & Modern Slavery

  • Unveiling the Dark Reality: Exploring the Causes and Consequences of Human Trafficking
  • International Cooperation: Strengthening Efforts to Combat Modern Slavery
  • Gender, Race, and Class: The Intersectionality of Human Trafficking
  • Shaping Public Opinion: Media’s Influence on Raising Awareness about Human Trafficking
  • Linkages Between Global Migration and Human Trafficking
  • Preventing Human Trafficking: The Vital Role of Education
  • Strengthening Legal Frameworks and Policies against Human Trafficking
  • Corporate Social Responsibility: Addressing Human Trafficking in Supply Chains
  • Healing and Recovery: Understanding the Psychological Impact on Human Trafficking Survivors
  • Complex Nexus: Exploring the Connection Between Human Trafficking and Sexual Exploitation
  • Unmasking the Hidden Reality: Investigating Human Trafficking and Forced Labor
  • Grassroots Movements for Change: The Role of NGOs in Combating Human Trafficking
  • Breaking the Cycle of Exploitation: Human Trafficking and Child Labor
  • Bridging the Gap: Human Trafficking and Human Rights
  • Emerging Challenges and Opportunities: Technology’s Impact on Human Trafficking
  • A Harsh Reality of Modern Warfare: Human Trafficking in Conflict Zones
  • Identifying and Prosecuting Human Traffickers: Law Enforcement’s Crucial Role
  • Addressing the Root Causes: Exploring the Role of Demand in Human Trafficking
  • Protecting Vulnerable Populations: Human Trafficking and Labor Migration
  • An Alarming Nexus: Human Trafficking and Organ Trafficking

Humanity Social Issues Topics

  • Gender Inequality: Challenging Societal Norms
  • Combating Racism and Promoting Equality in Society
  • Mental Health Stigma: Breaking the Silence
  • Human Rights Violations and the Importance of Advocacy
  • Overcoming Discrimination Based on Sexual Orientation
  • Economic Disparities: Addressing Wealth Inequality
  • The Power of Empathy in Fostering Social Change
  • Access to Healthcare: Bridging the Gap
  • Eradicating Child Labor: A Pathway to a Better Future
  • Challenges of Immigration and Refugee Integration
  • Promoting Ethical Practices in the Business World
  • Social Media and Its Impact on Human Connection
  • Tackling Food Insecurity: A Humanitarian Imperative
  • Promoting Cultural Diversity in a Globalized World
  • Addressing Human Trafficking: Protecting the Vulnerable
  • Disability Rights and Inclusion: Building an Accessible Society
  • The Role of NGOs in Addressing Humanitarian Crises
  • Challenging Ageism: Valuing the Wisdom of the Elderly
  • Ending Domestic Violence: Empowering Survivors
  • Fighting Corruption: Preserving Societal Integrity
  • Overcoming Religious Intolerance: Promoting Interfaith Dialogue

Illiteracy Social Issues Topics

  • Overcoming Educational Disadvantages: Illiteracy and Poverty
  • Digital Divide: Overcoming Barriers to Illiteracy
  • Empowering Women through Literacy Education
  • Illiteracy and Its Effect on Health and Access to Healthcare
  • Education for All: Tackling Illiteracy Challenges
  • Harnessing Technology to Combat the Illiteracy Crisis
  • The Role of Parental Involvement in Reducing Illiteracy
  • Social Exclusion and Illiteracy: A Vicious Cycle
  • Bridging the Gap: Accessible Education in Rural Areas
  • Early Childhood Literacy Programs: Building a Strong Foundation
  • Illiteracy and Environmental Sustainability: Raising Awareness
  • Media Literacy: Breaking Illiteracy Barriers to Information
  • Empowering Refugees through Literacy Education
  • Addressing Illiteracy in the Aging Population
  • Illiteracy and Crime: Disrupting the Connection
  • Indigenous Communities and Literacy: Empowering Cultural Heritage
  • Innovative Approaches to Adult Literacy Programs
  • Illiteracy’s Role in Perpetuating Gender Inequality
  • Language Access in Adult Literacy Initiatives
  • Overcoming Stigma: Transforming Perceptions of Illiteracy

LGBT Social Issues Topics & Ideas

  • Intersectionality: Exploring the Experiences of LGBTQ+ People of Color
  • Religion and Homosexuality: Bridging the Gap
  • LGBTQ+ Representation in Media: Significance and Challenges
  • Conversion Therapy: Harmful Effects on LGBTQ+ Individuals
  • Aging and Healthcare Access for LGBTQ+ Individuals
  • Workplace Equality: Upholding LGBTQ+ Rights
  • Parental Acceptance and Support for LGBTQ+ Youth
  • Education and LGBTQ+ Inclusion: Fostering Acceptance
  • Homosexuality and the Criminal Justice System: Challenges and Progress
  • Protecting and Empowering LGBTQ+ Refugees
  • LGBTQ+ Activism: Historical Milestones and Future Directions
  • Bisexuality: Challenging Stereotypes and Biphobia
  • Non-Binary Identity: Embracing Gender Non-Conformity
  • LGBTQ+ Representation in Politics and Leadership
  • Transgender Healthcare: Addressing Barriers and Disparities
  • LGBTQ+ Families: Diverse Dynamics and Parenting
  • Homelessness and Housing Discrimination Among LGBTQ+ Individuals
  • LGBTQ+ Pride Parades: Celebration, Solidarity, and Resistance
  • Isolation and Support for LGBTQ+ Elders
  • Asexuality: Beyond the Binary Norms and Misconceptions
  • Combating LGBTQ+ Hate Crimes: Strengthening Legislation and Awareness

Social Issues Essay Topics on Mental Health & Mental Illness

  • Addressing Mental Health Disparities Among Marginalized Populations
  • Understanding the Relationship Between Trauma and Psychiatric Conditions
  • Promoting Mental Health Support in Educational Institutions
  • Examining the Role of Genetics in Mental Health Disorders
  • Integrating Mental Health Care into Primary Healthcare Systems
  • Challenging Gender Stereotypes and Societal Expectations Surrounding Mental Health
  • The Influence of Socioeconomic Factors on Mental Well-Being Outcomes
  • Advocating for Mental Health Education in Academic Settings
  • Exploring the Link Between Substance Abuse and Psychiatric Disorders
  • The Role of Art Therapy in Enhancing Mental Health
  • Investigating the Connection Between Mental Health and Homelessness
  • Supporting Children and Adolescents Coping With Mental Health Challenges
  • Breaking the Cycle: Mental Health in the Criminal Justice System
  • Addressing Mental Health Stigma Within the LGBTQ+ Community
  • The Impact of Nutrition on Mental Well-Being
  • Exploring the Effects of Climate Change on Psychological Health
  • Promoting Mental Health in Rural Communities
  • Examining the Intersectionality of Mental Health and Disability
  • The Relationship Between Exercise and Emotional Wellness
  • Supporting Veterans Dealing With Psychological Challenges

Social Issues Topics About Migration & Immigration

  • Enhancing Access to Healthcare for Undocumented Individuals
  • Effects of Immigration Policies on Family Unity
  • Assessing the Link Between Immigration and Crime Rates
  • The Economic Contribution of Immigrant Entrepreneurs
  • Balancing National Security and Humanitarian Responsibility in Migration Policies
  • Examining the Impact of Migration on Cultural Diversity and Identity
  • The Role of Social Services in Assisting Migrants
  • Implications of Climate Change on Migration Patterns
  • Promoting International Cooperation in Managing Migration Flows
  • Explaining the Effects of Immigration on Wage Disparities
  • Addressing the Integration Challenges Faced by Immigrant Women
  • Assessing the Economic Impact of Deportation Policies
  • Media’s Influence on Public Perception of Immigration
  • The Role of Education in Immigrant Integration and Empowerment
  • Securing Borders and Enforcing Immigration Laws
  • Analyzing the Impact of Brain Drain on Developing Nations
  • Non-Governmental Organizations’ Assistance to Migrants
  • Rights and Responsibilities of Immigrants in Host Countries
  • The Impact of Immigration on Social Welfare Systems
  • Language Acquisition and Immigrant Integration
  • Exploring the Effects of Migration on Housing Markets

Peace and War Social Issues Topics

  • Healing the Wounds: Restorative Justice in Post-War Communities
  • Education as a Catalyst for Peaceful Coexistence
  • Media’s Roles in Influencing Public Perception of Conflict and Harmony
  • Safeguarding Human Rights in Times of Armed Strife
  • Environmental Degradation: Implications for Peaceful Societies
  • Ethics of Intervention: Balancing Sovereignty and Responsibility
  • Economic Disparity: A Driver of Conflict
  • Addressing the Underlying Causes of Strife: Social, Economic, and Political Factors
  • Empowering Women for Lasting Peace: Achieving Gender Equality
  • Religion’s Influence on Peaceful Coexistence: Bridging Divides or Exacerbating Tensions?
  • Cyber Warfare: Emerging Battlegrounds and the Imperative for Digital Harmony
  • Curbing Arms Trade: Mitigating Weapons Proliferation for Global Security
  • Refugee Crises: Humanitarian Responses and the Quest for Peace
  • Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Mediating Conflict and Fostering Reconciliation
  • Nationalism’s Roles in International Relations: Building Bridges or Deepening Divisions?
  • Nuclear Disarmament: The Urgency of Global Collaboration
  • Ensuring Accountability for War Crimes: Pursuing Justice for Victims
  • Promoting Peace through Education: Instilling a Culture of Nonviolence
  • Complexities of Peacekeeping: Triumphs, Trials, and Lessons Learned
  • Art and Literature: Conveying Messages of Peace and Facilitating Healing

Social Issues Essay Topics on Police & Criminal Justice

  • Community Impacts of Mass Incarceration: Reevaluating Strategies
  • Balancing Rehabilitation and Punishment in Criminal Justice Systems
  • Juvenile Justice: Empowering Youth Through Rehabilitation
  • Examining the Consequences of Privatizing Prisons
  • Safeguarding Civil Liberties: Evaluating Police Militarization
  • Disrupting the School-to-Prison Pipeline: Fostering Equal Opportunities
  • Achieving Gender Equality in the Criminal Justice System
  • Bridging the Gap: Mental Health Support in the Criminal Justice System
  • The Ethics of Capital Punishment: Alternatives and Reflections
  • Enhancing Public Safety: Police Training and De-Escalation Tactics
  • Restorative Justice: Healing Communities, Reducing Recidivism
  • Promoting Equity: Reforming Bail Systems
  • Rethinking Drug Policies: Consequences and Alternative Approaches
  • Collaboration and Trust: Strengthening Community Policing
  • Combating Cybercrime: Law Enforcement’s Evolving Role
  • Preserving Innocence: Addressing Wrongful Convictions
  • Addressing Sentencing Disparities: Pursuing Fairness
  • Transparency and Accountability: Police Internal Affairs
  • Successful Reintegration: Rehabilitation Programs for Offenders
  • Balancing Privacy and Security: The Impact of Technology in Policing
  • Combating Hate Crimes: Bias Awareness and Law Enforcement

Pornography Social Issues Topics

  • Addiction to Sexual Material: Understanding and Treating the Issue
  • Feminist Perspectives on Obscene Material and Objectification
  • Pornography and Its Influence on Adolescent Development
  • The Economic Implications of the Adult Entertainment Industry
  • Representations of Gender in Erotic Media and Their Impact
  • Media Literacy and Critical Thinking: Analyzing Sexual Content
  • The Connection Between Adult Material and Violence Against Women
  • Addressing Consent and Boundaries in Explicit Productions
  • Sexualized Media and Body Image Issues: Unrealistic Standards
  • Education’s Roles in Preventing Harmful Sexual Content Consumption
  • The Intersection of Pornography and Technology: Challenges and Solutions
  • Cultivating Healthy Sexual Expression in the Age of Explicit Material
  • The Erosion of Intimacy in Long-Term Relationships: Pornography’s Role
  • The Impact of Sexual Material on Youth Sexual Education
  • Addressing the Demand for Exploitative Content: Legal and Social Approaches
  • Media Responsibility: Portrayal of Sexuality Beyond Obscenity
  • Pornography and Sexual Violence: Unraveling the Connection
  • Rehabilitation and Support for Individuals Affected by the Adult Entertainment Industry
  • The Role of Social Media in the Accessibility and Consumption of Sexual Content
  • Educating about Consent: Empowering Individuals to Make Informed Choices

Social Issues Essay Topics About Poverty & Income Inequality

  • Addressing Poverty and Reducing Income Disparities
  • Implementing Effective Policies for Economic Equality
  • Ensuring Equal Opportunities for Economic Advancement
  • Bridging the Wealth Gap: Strategies for Equity
  • Alleviating Poverty Through Sustainable Development
  • Tackling Income Inequality: Fair Wealth Distribution
  • Empowering Marginalized Communities in Overcoming Poverty
  • Reducing Income Disparity: A Holistic Approach
  • Combating Poverty Through Education and Skill Development
  • Promoting Social Mobility to Address Income Inequality
  • Breaking the Cycle of Poverty: Empowering Future Generations
  • Strengthening Social Safety Nets for the Impoverished
  • Increasing Wages: A Step Toward Reducing Income Inequality
  • Raising Awareness About Poverty and Wealth Disparities
  • Encouraging Corporate Responsibility to Address Poverty
  • Advocating Affordable Housing for Poverty Alleviation
  • Empowering Women to Overcome Income Disparities
  • Promoting Financial Inclusion to Reduce Poverty
  • Addressing Income Inequality in Developing Nations
  • Overcoming Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Wealth and Poverty
  • Enhancing Healthcare Access for Vulnerable Populations

Racism Social Issues Topics

  • Uniting Communities: Building Bridges to Eradicate Racial Prejudice
  • Addressing Implicit Bias: Challenging Stereotypes and Racial Profiling
  • Racial Injustice Within the Criminal Justice System: Reforming Policies and Practices
  • Equality in the Workplace: Fostering Diversity and Inclusion
  • Eradicating Hate Speech: Promoting Respectful Communication
  • Racism in Healthcare: Ensuring Equitable Access and Quality Treatment
  • Environmental Racism: Protecting Marginalized Communities From Toxic Exposure
  • The Role of Education in Combating Racism: Promoting Cultural Understanding
  • Racism and Mental Health: Addressing the Psychological Impacts
  • Promoting Racial Justice in Immigration Policies
  • Racial Disparities in Wealth and Economic Opportunities: Bridging the Gap
  • Segregation in Residential Areas: Promoting Integration and Equality
  • Challenging Colorism: Overcoming Prejudice Based on Skin Tone
  • The Intersectionality of Racism and Sexism: Empowering Women of Color
  • Racial Profiling and Policing: Ensuring Fair and Just Law Enforcement
  • Inequality in Voting Rights: Safeguarding Democracy for All
  • Racism and Sports: Promoting Inclusivity and Fair Play
  • Historical Reparations for Racial Injustices: Acknowledging Past Wrongs
  • Addressing Racism in the Digital Sphere: Countering Online Hate
  • Racism in Immigration Policies: Promoting Fairness and Compassion

Social Issues Essay Topics Related to Social Media

  • Analyzing the Effectiveness of Social Media in Facilitating Social Movements
  • Shaping Public Opinion and Perception: The Role of Social Media
  • Recognizing and Managing the Consequences of Social Media Addiction
  • Empowering Marginalized Communities Through Online Activism
  • Unmasking Misinformation: Combating Fake News on Social Media
  • Exploring Social Media’s Impact on Interpersonal Connections
  • Transforming Education: Leveraging Social Media for Learning
  • Enhancing Cybersecurity on Digital Platforms: Safeguarding Users
  • Social Media and Online Activism: A Comparative Study
  • Ethics and Data Collection on Social Media: An Analytical Perspective
  • Bridging Political Polarization through Social Media Engagement
  • Analyzing the Influence of Social Media on Youth Culture and Identity
  • Mobilizing Communities for Change: Social Media and Civic Engagement
  • Fostering Inclusivity: Promoting Diversity on Digital Platforms
  • The Dark Side of the Internet: Cyberstalking and Online Harassment
  • Navigating Social Media Algorithms: Challenges and Strategies
  • Balancing Freedom of Expression and Hate Speech on Digital Platforms
  • Global Perspectives on Digital Activism: The Power of Social Media
  • Social Media’s Influence on Political Campaigns and Elections
  • Environmental Activism in the Digital Age: Leveraging Social Media
  • Promoting Online Safety and Digital Citizenship on Social Platforms

Justice Essay Topics on Human Rights Issues

  • Privacy in the Digital Age: Balancing Security and Individual Rights
  • Criminal Justice Reform: Addressing Systemic Injustices
  • Promoting LGBTQ+ Rights: Striving for Inclusion and Acceptance
  • Eradicating Child Labor: Protecting the Future Generation
  • Climate Change and Human Rights: Mitigating Environmental Injustices
  • Disability Rights: Promoting Inclusivity and Accessibility
  • Indigenous Peoples’ Rights: Recognizing and Preserving Cultural Heritage
  • Freedom of Speech: Navigating the Boundaries of Expression
  • Refugees and Asylum Seekers: Ensuring Protection and Support
  • The Right to Healthcare: Overcoming Barriers to Access
  • LGBTQ+ Adoption Rights: Fostering Loving Families
  • Racial Profiling: Combating Discrimination in Law Enforcement
  • Workers’ Rights: Empowering Labor in the Global Economy
  • Right to Religious Freedom: Respecting Diverse Beliefs
  • Genital Mutilation: Eliminating Harmful Traditional Practices
  • Social Media and Human Rights: Navigating the Online Landscape
  • The Right to Adequate Housing: Addressing Homelessness
  • Children’s Rights in Armed Conflict: Protecting Innocence
  • The Right to Water: Combating Water Scarcity and Inequality
  • Combatting Hate Crimes: Promoting Tolerance and Unity

Social Justice Essay Topics

  • Environmental Injustice: A Call for Sustainability
  • Eradicating Hunger: Addressing Food Insecurity
  • Affordable Housing: Combating Homelessness
  • Access to Quality Healthcare: A Social Justice Imperative
  • Reforming Prisons: Reducing Mass Incarceration
  • Comprehensive Immigration Reform: Upholding Migrant Rights
  • Combating Islamophobia: Promoting Religious Tolerance
  • Ending Exploitation of Child Labor: Ensuring Access to Education
  • Breaking Mental Health Stigma: Expanding Support Services
  • Respect for the Elderly: Combating Ageism
  • Safeguarding Online Spaces: Combating Cyberbullying
  • Equal Pay for Fair Work: Closing the Gender Wage Gap
  • Native American Rights: Preserving Indigenous Cultures
  • Combating Human Trafficking: Ensuring Justice for All
  • Access to Clean Water: Addressing Underserved Communities’ Needs
  • Animal Rights: Advocating Ethical Treatment
  • Protecting Religious Minority Rights: Eliminating Discrimination
  • Prisoners’ Rights: Rehabilitation and Reintegration
  • Accessible Transportation: Empowering People With Disabilities
  • Ensuring Voting Rights: Expanding Electoral Participation
  • LGBTQ+ Housing Equality: Eliminating Discrimination

Social Issues Essay Topics on Science

  • Socioeconomic Disparities in Access to Healthcare and Breakthroughs
  • Effects of Artificial Intelligence on Job Market Dynamics
  • Gender Equality in Science: Overcoming Stereotypes and Biases
  • Combating Misinformation in Scientific Research
  • Contributions of Science to Sustainable Development Goals
  • Balancing Public Interest and Corporate Influence in Science and Politics
  • Challenges of Science Communication in the Digital Era
  • Promoting Science Education and Equity in Underprivileged Communities
  • Advancements in Renewable Energy Sources
  • Technological Innovations and Social Inequality
  • Addressing Food Insecurity Through Agricultural Science
  • Ensuring Ethical Standards in Clinical Trials and Human Experimentation
  • Accessibility in Science: Inclusive Solutions for Persons With Disabilities
  • Science and Social Justice: Examining Biases in Research and Outcomes
  • Roles of Science in Public Health Crises, such as Pandemics
  • Influence of Corporate Funding on Scientific Research
  • Ethical Considerations in Animal Testing for Scientific Research
  • Science and Cultural Diversity: Recognizing Indigenous Knowledge Systems
  • Breakthroughs in Mental Health Treatment and Reducing Stigma
  • Ethics of Human Enhancement Technologies

Social Issues Topics About Substance Abuse & Addiction

  • Combating Human Trafficking: Addressing a Global Crisis
  • Overcoming Substance Dependency: The Path to Recovery
  • Breaking the Cycle: Ending Child Abuse
  • Addressing the Root Causes of Substance Abuse
  • Empowering Survivors: Supporting Victims of Abuse
  • Domestic Violence in LGBTQ+ Relationships
  • The Role of Education in Preventing Substance Abuse
  • Exploring the Link Between Childhood Trauma and Addiction
  • The Economic Burden of Substance Abuse on Society
  • Challenging Gender Stereotypes in the Context of Abuse
  • Effective Intervention Strategies for Combatting Substance Abuse
  • Elder Abuse: Protecting the Vulnerable in Society
  • Addiction as a Disease: Shifting Perspectives and Approaches
  • Raising Awareness: The Importance of Public Campaigns against Abuse
  • Overcoming Stigma: Supporting Individuals in Recovery
  • Media Influence on Substance Abuse and Violence
  • Healing through Art: The Therapeutic Potential for Survivors
  • Preventing Substance Abuse in Teenagers: A Holistic Approach
  • Breaking the Silence: Encouraging Reporting of Abuse Cases
  • Substance Abuse in the Workplace: Impacts and Solutions
  • Digital Abuse: Navigating the Dark Side of Social Media
  • Tackling Substance Abuse in Prisons: Rehabilitation vs. Punishment

Technology & Privacy Social Issues Topics

  • Digital Surveillance: Protecting Individual Privacy in the Digital Age
  • Ethical Implications of Facial Recognition Technology in Public Spaces
  • Cyberbullying: Addressing Online Harassment and Protecting Users
  • The Impact of Social Media on Privacy and Personal Relationships
  • Artificial Intelligence: Balancing Innovation and Privacy Concerns
  • Data Breaches and Cybersecurity: Safeguarding Personal Information
  • The Right to Be Forgotten: Ensuring Digital Privacy and Data Erasure
  • Online Privacy Policies: Transparency and User Consent
  • Privacy vs. National Security: Striking a Balance in the Digital Era
  • Digital Divide: Bridging the Gap in Access to Technology and Privacy Protection
  • Online Harassment: Combating Threats and Protecting Users’ Safety
  • Internet Service Providers: Preserving Net Neutrality and User Privacy
  • Algorithmic Bias: Examining the Ethical Implications of Automated Systems
  • Government Surveillance: Protecting Civil Liberties in the Digital World
  • Internet of Things: Privacy Challenges and Security Risks
  • Online Identity Theft: Preventing Fraud and Identity Misuse
  • Location Tracking: Privacy Implications and Personal Safety
  • Privacy in Health Tech: Balancing Benefits and Confidentiality
  • Children’s Online Privacy: Safeguarding Vulnerable Users
  • Privacy and Biometric Data: Ethics and Consent in Digital Identification

War & Violence Social Issues Essay Topics

  • Psychological Effects of War on Veterans and Their Families
  • Promoting Peace Education to Prevent Violence
  • Rebuilding Societies After Civil Wars: Challenges and Opportunities
  • Nonviolent Resistance Movements: Lessons From History
  • War Crimes and International Criminal Justice
  • The Arms Trade and its Influence on Global Conflicts
  • Ethical Considerations of Drone Warfare
  • Exploring the Link Between Poverty and Violence
  • Peacekeeping Operations: Successes and Failures
  • Protecting Children’s Rights in Times of War
  • Resolving Ethnic and Religious Conflicts Through Dialogue
  • Preventing Radicalization and Extremism in Post-War Societies
  • Diplomacy’s Roles in Conflict Resolution
  • Media Censorship in War Zones: Implications for Democracy
  • Rehabilitation and Reintegration of Former Child Soldiers
  • Environmental Devastation Caused by Warfare
  • Addressing Domestic Violence During and After Armed Conflicts
  • NGO Contributions to Peace and Reconciliation Efforts
  • Exploring the Link between Economic Inequality and Violent Conflict
  • Ethical Dilemmas Surrounding Torture in War
  • Disrupting Education Systems in Times of War

To Learn More, Read Relevant Articles

502 ethics essay topics & ideas, 568 reflective essay topics & good ideas.

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List of Social Issues and Topics for Students

social issues list

Think of the world as a place with social ties, which faces constant social, political, ethical, economic, environmental problems. This blog article will cover some common examples of social issues that can inspire you to choose the best topic for your research paper, essay, or term paper.

Whether you are in high school, college, or university, chances are that you will write a social issues paper. If you are a social work student, you are highly likely to be assigned a social issue essay.

The trick is to begin from a social issue or problem, explore widely what the media, news, and people are saying about a given issue, then apply concepts from class to narrow down to a topic.

These social issues are also subjects of policy briefs. Think of global problems, then start narrowing them down to continental, regional, national, and finally within the state or community. Most importantly, these issues should be represented in national, local, and international news. Your instructor most likely gave samples too, so peruse through your notes for ideas.

If you need some inspiration, let's define social issues, then explore a list of different issues before delving into topic ideas.

What is a Social Issue?

A social issue refers to a problem that affects a large population of people in society. It is a combination of different problems in present-day society, primarily in which people strive to find solutions.

They can also be defined as social conditions that disrupt normalcy in society.

Social problems result from many contributing factors that are beyond the control of an individual or individuals. If left unresolved, social issues birth conflicts based on a different point of view regarding what is morally right and what is incorrect decision either at the personal or group level.

Specific social issues are rampant in given countries, while others can be generic. For instance, the United States is known for police brutality, racism, hate crimes, obesity, overcrowded prisons, junk foods, hunger, homelessness, opioid pandemic, and wealth inequality.

For an issue to be considered a social issue or problem:

  • It has to be one that can be solved or averted through joint action of community or society members
  • Has to be recognized by the public as a problem
  • Must affect a large segment of the population that recognizes it as a valid concern
  • Has to be against the generally accepted values in society

List of Recent/Current/ Hot Social Issues

When assigned to write an essay, research paper, or term paper on social issues, you should think of writing a problem-solution essay . Here is a list of the most common or important social issues to kickstart you with your writing.

Here is a list of social issues that have captured the attention of everyone in the world.

  • Covid-19 vaccine
  • Mandatory vaccination for Covid-19
  • Vaccine development and distribution
  • Israeli-Pakistani conflict
  • War in Syria
  • Al-Qaeda takeover of Afghanistan
  • Increased unemployment in the United States
  • Increased unemployment in developing nations
  • Increased demand of nurses and healthcare personnel in developed nations
  • Australian travel ban for people outside its territory
  • UK and US ban for people from places with high covid-19 infections
  • Travel restrictions for people from countries with low vaccination rates
  • Russia is accused of meddling in other countries' election processes
  • Unrests and strikes after elections
  • More deaths announced because of COVID-19
  • Political hand in vaccination and covid-19 information
  • Politics in manufacture and distribution of vaccines
  • Change in the global economy because of the pandemic
  • Social norm shifts because of the global pandemic
  • The Black Lives Matter social movement has captured the attention of the world. The protests follow a series of police brutality cases in America.
  • Social media made the BLM movement vibrant
  • The Centers for Disease Control Center (CDC) shows that over 97 million people cannot access quality healthcare services globally.
  • Both governments and non-governmental organizations are at the forefront to combat this.
  • It can be attributed to shortages of healthcare personnel, poor healthcare policies, and poor healthcare systems.
  • Overpopulation is also a contributing factor as the demand for healthcare services increases
  • Poverty leads to a lack of access to universal healthcare packages
  • The world has recorded many cases of racism. From advertisements to killings of people from a given race, there has been an increase in racism and discrimination.
  • We have witnessed xenophobia and Islamophobia
  • Religious discrimination has also taken the lead recently, with Muslims being blamed for terrorism
  • Countries are slowly taking a stance on the issue of LGBTQ
  • The chief issue has been the adoption rights of same-sex parents
  • Some countries have criminalized same-sex relationships
  • Climate change is an ongoing issue that raises emotions and controversy.
  • It is a significant social issue that affects the entire world population.
  • Issues such as hurricanes, tsunamis, severe storms, warmer winters, increased sea levels, wildfires, and drought are attributed to pollution.
  • The global population is experiencing an outburst
  • Experts warn that there will be a strain on resources in coming years
  • Over 1 billion people are living in extreme poverty
  • The world is projected to have over 9 billion people by 2030
  • Overpopulation increases the scarcity of resources such as farmable lands
  • Overpopulation leads to starvation, poverty, and homelessness
  • Movement from country to country has increased
  • Increased numbers of asylum seekers from countries such as Afghanistan and Haiti
  • The United States has many immigrants, making immigration a social issue
  • The UK is considering increasing strictness to immigration
  • There is a refugee crisis as people are barred from entering some countries
  • The National Association of Social workers prioritizes the right to vote as a social justice issue
  • There is debate on the age limit to vote
  • People are not coming out to exercise their right to vote
  • There are issues with US' electoral college system
  • Obesity is a prevalent issue in society. It is a social problem deriving from a lifestyle change.
  • Childhood obesity and adult obesity is on the rise
  • At least 2-3 people are considered overweight, while one in every six kids aged between 6 and 19 years are obese
  • Obesity is linked to CVD, diabetes, cancers, depression, and other disorders.
  • Terrorist organizations are mushrooming every day
  • Suicide bombing
  • Counterterrorism strategies
  • Terrorists disrupting normalcy, such as Boko Haram that capture school going children
  • Radicalization of youths to join terrorist groups
  • Recruitment of terrorists through social media
  • Kidnappings
  • Weapons of mass destruction
  • Biological terrorism
  • Bombing of aircrafts
  • Political assassinations
  • International and domestic/home-grown terrorism
  • Increased organ trafficking
  • Women being trafficked more than ever
  • Sex trafficking of young girls
  • Many people are being recruited to be drug mules
  • Drugs are affecting many people
  • The proliferation of online education technology
  • Digital illiteracy
  • Digital divide
  • Use of Skype, Zoom, and Google Classroom
  • Inequality in accessing online education

Topics inspired by Social Issues/Problems

When writing an essay or research paper, you can pick topics related to the social issues we have highlighted above. Here are some topics

  • Factors leading to sexual abuse
  • Sexual abuse of minors on the rise
  • Sexual abuse of the elderly
  • Sexual abuse of nurses and frontline healthcare workers
  • Sexual abuse of the homeless
  • Sexual abuse by the clergy
  • Sexual abuse in prisons
  • Role of media in curbing sexual abuse
  • Causes and consequences of early pregnancies
  • Causes and solutions to teenage pregnancy
  • The link between teenage pregnancy and drug abuse
  • How desperation leads to early pregnancy
  • Sex education and teenage pregnancy
  • Impacts of teenage pregnancies
  • Teenage pregnancy and abortion.
  • Female genital mutilation

Over 200 million women have undergone FGM. In addition, there is a risk of 3 million girls undergoing the same even if they are below 15 years. FGM is rampant in over 30 countries .

  • Prevalence of female genital mutilation in the developed world
  • How culture impacts FGM practices
  • Can movies help fight FGM?
  • Health consequences of FGM
  • Medicalization of FGM
  • Complications after FGM
  • Psychological consequences of FGM
  • FGM and early marriages
  • FGM and depression among women and girls
  • FGM and education continuity among women
  • Increased trans-country crimes
  • Advancement in global financial crimes
  • Money laundering and organized crimes
  • More deaths in the hands of criminals
  • Increased identity theft cases
  • Increase stalking because of social media

General Social Issue Topics for Essays

As long as an issue affects many people, it can be the major subject of your essay. For example, the social justice issues that affect the majority; are significant and have many topic ideas.

  • Causes, consequences, and solutions to PTSD among veterans
  • Mental health issues among military families
  • Overcrowding in prisons
  • Consequences of breach of privacy.'
  • Bullying in schools
  • Toxic workplaces
  • Unfavorable work policies
  • Increased prostitution due to unemployment and poverty
  • Increased school dropout rates
  • Shortage of school drivers
  • Increased childhood obesity
  • Racial profiling in America
  • Football hooliganism
  • Shortage of access to clean water
  • Shortage of healthcare personnel
  • Shortage of teachers
  • Stigmatization of people living with AIDS
  • Increased air pollution
  • Increased droughts
  • Human-animal conflicts
  • Microplastics in water bodies
  • The increased cost of living
  • Sexism in the media
  • Police brutality in America
  • Increased gender-based violence
  • Impacts of domestic violence
  • Swelling student loan debt
  • Flint water crisis
  • Homelessness in America
  • Social media bullying
  • Gangs in big cities
  • Poor waste management in cities
  • Growing fast-food and shrinking organic foods
  • Inequality in organic food distribution in America
  • Corruption in governments
  • Corruption at FIFA
  • Increasing date rapes
  • Aggression in children
  • Sexual abuse and racial discrimination in sports
  • Destruction of natural and cultural heritage
  • Overrepresentation of indigenous people in prisons
  • Poor access to healthcare by indigenous populations
  • Hate speech and fake news on social media
  • Segregation in the USA
  • Stigmatization of people with disability
  • Misogyny in the Middle East countries
  • Assault of domestic workers in the Middle East countries
  • Money laundering in developing nations
  • Stigmatization of people with mental health and their families
  • Ethnic cleansing in today's society
  • Pornography and child sex trafficking
  • Labeling as a form of discrimination in society
  • Social class wars in the current society
  • Sex tourism, its causes, impacts, and consequences
  • Drug addiction among teenagers
  • Discrimination of access to vaccination
  • Surveillance of people in society as a breach of privacy
  • Ageism targeting specific races
  • Body shaming on social media
  • Increased natural disasters due to pollution
  • Accidents and drunk driving
  • Malnutrition among children
  • Consequences of cultural isolation
  • Green energy and green hoax
  • Greenwashing by multinational corporations
  • Labor exploitation through sweatshops
  • Immigration challenges
  • Displacement of people for infrastructural development
  • Mobility in cities
  • Political and religious extremism
  • Abortion issues
  • Increased religious intolerance
  • Consequences of problem neighborhoods
  • Breastfeeding in public
  • Separation of parents and children at the border
  • Racial profiling in the criminal justice system
  • Politically motivated poor infrastructure
  • Food insecurity in America
  • Legalization of medical marijuana
  • Increased marketing of junk food to children
  • Private prisons in America
  • Food shortage in Africa
  • Consequences of deprived neighborhoods
  • Food aid in war-torn countries
  • Consequences of drunk driving
  • Consequences of driving when texting
  • Persecution of religious captives
  • Homicides due to gun violence
  • Inequality in the American workplaces
  • Tax evasion by large companies
  • High cost of healthcare access
  • Causes and consequences of femicide
  • Low access to colleges for poor children
  • Racial profiling in college admissions

You cannot miss an idea from the societal issues list to write your essay, research paper, or term paper about.

  • Best research paper topics for university students.
  • Psychology research topics and ideas.

Parting Shot!

Having listed the most popular social issues that the entire world faces, you can now see how we ended up with topics from these issues. When assigned an essay, you can start from a single social issue, research widely, and develop a topic, thesis, and a befitting essay title.

If you feel like you could use some help, our paper writing service has essay writers you can pay to write your social issues essay. Whether it is an argumentative , compare and contrast, problem-solution, or synthesis essay , our essay writing service has experts who can ace it.

If the process of choosing a topic sounds complex for you, there are people who can do it in an instant. The good thing is that we are a fast essay service . Therefore, we can handle urgent essay requests.

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A List of 470 Powerful Social Issues Essay Topics

In modern societies, people do everything to live peacefully. Still, tensions often arise. We call them social issues when they start negatively impacting a specific group of people. Poverty, discrimination, and addiction are examples of such problems. We need to confront them to ensure equal treatment for everyone.

Our specialists will write a custom essay specially for you!

Our professional custom writing team created this article to help you write a social issues essay. This comprehensive social issues topics list covers various current problems in America and in the world. Choose among 450 social topics, and get down to writing!

  • 🔝 Top 10 Topics

✅ How to Write About Social Issues

  • 🌐 Social Media Issues Topics
  • 🏥 Health-Related Issues
  • 🌳 Environmental Issues
  • 🔫 War & Violence
  • 🚓 Police & Criminal Justice
  • 👨👩 Gender-Related Issues
  • 🧔🏿 Racism Topics
  • ✈️ Migration & Refugees
  • ⚖️ Human Rights Topics
  • 🗽 Social Issues in America

🔝 Top 10 Social Issues Topics

  • Types of prisoner rights violations.
  • Can vaccinations be mandatory?
  • What makes overpopulation a threat?
  • Online education as a cause of obesity.
  • The economic effect of rising sea levels.
  • The effects of Gender Pay Gap on economy.
  • Ways to stop racial discrimination in schools.
  • Can increase of employment help reduce poverty?
  • Women empowerment and social development.
  • Can mobile clinics make healthcare more accessible?

Writing on topics related to social issues involves thorough research. It also requires sympathy and tact. Following this guide will help you not to step on anybody’s toes.

  • Research papers call for an in-depth analysis. Make sure to reference several sources to back up your claims.
  • Essays revolve around your opinion. Here, good arguments are crucial.
  • Pick the topic . It can be either contemporary or historical. It’s better to choose something you’re interested in. If nothing comes to mind right away, use a writing topic generator .
  • Do research . Consult encyclopedias, find books on the topic. It will help you formulate ideas and outline the first draft.
  • Consider your audience . How much do they know about your subject? How invested are they? Understanding your readers will help you be more considerate.
  • Even if you have strong feelings about your subject, keep your tone neutral. Make sure not to condemn those who hold opposite views.
  • Highlight what you personally think is right. Remember that you can’t control how other people will react.
  • Be frank. Ask yourself: who am I? How do my experiences fit into my topic? Your honest answers will add unique insights to your paper.
  • Double-check your paper. Does everything you wrote logically flow? Does your argumentative structure make sense? Does it support your thesis? If possible, let your assignment sit for a day. You can edit it later with a fresh perspective.

These are the basics you need if you want to write about social issues. Now you can start your research! The first step is to pick one of the excellent topics about social problems from the list below.

🌐 Social Issues Essay Topics Related to Social Media

  • Security issues of social media .
  • Should Instagram be age-restricted?
  • Social networks’ impact on friendships.
  • Disadvantages of being an influencer .
  • Is there freedom of speech in social media?
  • Should social media ban fake information?
  • How harmful is social media dependency?
  • Should employers check employees’ accounts?
  • Online ethics and business Facebook accounts.
  • The effect of the cancel culture on mental health.
  • Cyberbullying: victim and abuser in the online environment.
  • Should children be allowed to have social media accounts?
  • Your opinion on memorial pages on social networks for the deceased.
  • Ways to stay safe on the internet.

Cyber abuse.

  • How should social media websites deal with hate speech ?
  • Is removing abusive content censorship?
  • Explore the correlation between social media and mental disorders.
  • Does Instagram change the way we perceive our lives?
  • Is modern society forcing us to participate in social networking ?
  • What is identity theft ?
  • Personal isolation and technology in communication.
  • The risks of microtransactions in online gaming .
  • How does your digital presence influence your real life?
  • Why do some people become dependent on social media ?
  • Are online networks promoting stalking ?
  • Discuss the digital divide in Washington.
  • Is Twitter’s cancel culture doing more harm than good?
  • How do marginalized groups benefit from social media?
  • How important is data safety?
  • Are people on social media more aggressive than in real life?
  • Does the internet shorten our attention span ?
  • Ways in which social media impacts your interactions with other people.
  • Marketing, social media, and you: how do influencers impact your buying behavior?
  • Explore the effect of the internet on students’ lives.
  • Is Reddit right to allow outrageous content under the principle of free speech ?
  • Politics and Twitter: the consequences of Donald Trump’s tweets .
  • Does banning online networks from the workplace increase productivity?
  • What basic ethical principles go overboard on the Internet ?
  • In how far do social media trends reflect on the general public?
  • Social media and youth: does it make puberty harder?
  • The influence of social media platforms on democracy.
  • What would happen if we could rate everyone online? (Think Community ’s episode “App Development and Condiments”)
  • Does Instagram inspire a healthy lifestyle ?
  • Why are likes so important?
  • Debate the effects of speaking out in online communities.
  • Are Facebook’s profile picture frames a good way of showing support?
  • Debate social media policies and code of conduct.
  • Is YouTube spreading propaganda?
  • Did you ever do something because you’ve read about it on the internet?
  • Are Twitter hashtags skewing the political discourse?
  • Examine the gendered experiences of people on the internet.
  • How do you make yourself heard on social media?
  • Evaluate the usefulness of Facebook’s Safety Check feature.
  • Discuss the pros and cons of TikTok challenges.
  • How does participating in Instagram challenges for social justice help?

🏥 Health-Related Social Issues Topics to Write About

Our health largely depends on the social security system. With access to good healthcare services, we are less likely to develop preventable diseases. Unfortunately, issues are common in the health sector. These interesting essay writing prompts will help you explore social problems related to health:

  • Are employers not paying enough attention to their employees’ mental health ?
  • What should a person do if they can’t afford medical treatment?
  • Why do some countries have higher obesity rates than others?
  • Should abortion be legal or illegal?
  • Debate whether a ban on tobacco advertising would help decrease smoking.
  • What makes Americans start doing drugs ?
  • Compare projects that help people overcome their addictions .
  • What is the worst substance to be addicted to?
  • Who should care for the elders ?
  • Should hospices be free?
  • Examine why HIV in seniors remains widely unrecognized.
  • Should we change the drinking age limit?
  • Whose health is mostly affected by pollution ?
  • Should parents avoid vaccinating their children?
  • What does it mean to die with dignity ?
  • Should women get extra vacation days at work because of their periods?
  • Explore the origins of the pro-life movement .
  • Should non-smokers receive additional break time?
  • Ways to make navigating easier for visually impaired people .
  • Discuss stigma against mentally challenged individuals.
  • The benefits of over-the-counter contraception.
  • Must women who breastfeed in public cover themselves up?
  • Psychoactive drugs in the treatment of psychological diseases.
  • Disabilities and stigmatization: how does being disabled affect one’s social status?
  • Does gender play an important role in one’s health?
  • What health issues are affecting African Americans and Hispanics?
  • Expectations and motherhood: being a childfree woman in a kid-centered society.
  • How does being malnourished affect a child’s psyche in the long run?
  • Investigate suicide rates in Pakistan.
  • Discuss the social acceptance of autism spectrum disorders .
  • Sociology and psychological diseases: the relationship between circumstance and mental health.
  • Write about fad diets and their impact.
  • How does the society you live in discriminate against older adults?
  • Why is access to quality healthcare unevenly distributed?
  • Who should decide when to stop life-prolonging treatments?
  • Is homeopathic treatment for children acceptable?
  • Describe why going to psychotherapy is widely stigmatized.
  • What are the social determinants of health?
  • Why is access to healthcare in rural areas so scarce?
  • Is the propagation of mindfulness and self-care on social media improving our health?

Smoking is.

  • Examine the connection between poverty and health problems.
  • Where does our society’s general obsession with weight come from?
  • Do cultural norms promote drinking alcohol to an unhealthy extent?
  • Is coffee a drug?
  • How does the depiction of drug use in the media influence the youth?

🌳 Environmental Social Issues Essay Topics

Environmentalism is not just about saving nature. A damaged environment has adverse effects on humanity and its future. Changing weather and frequent natural disasters affect millions of people. Many are forced to flee their homes. Essays on this subject can cover activism or sustainability.

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  • Is Extinction Rebellion’s form of protest too radical?
  • What to avoid when traveling in the age of climate change .
  • How can we ensure global access to drinking water ?
  • The impact of bottled water on the environment.
  • Water conservation methods in sub-Saharan Africa.
  • The influence of tourism on cultural heritage sites.
  • How does society need to change in the future to slow down climate change ?
  • What caused the rise in climate activism in recent years?
  • Innovation vs. tradition: getting traditional farmers to implement new sustainable technology.
  • Describe the importance of waste reduction for our ecosystems.
  • How can we use our natural resources responsibly?
  • Discuss what a sustainable diet is like.
  • The role of packaging in marketing, food safety, and environment.
  • Why do people deny human-made climate change ?
  • Why should sociologists study the environment?
  • What made us reliant on single-use plastic products?
  • Discuss green infrastructure in water management.
  • Debate how Greenpeace influences political decision making.
  • In your opinion, what’s the best environmental organization to donate to?
  • How successful is PETA in helping animals?
  • Should mandatory volunteer work substitute compulsory military service?
  • Urban gardening as a means to ensure food security .
  • The effect of self-driving electric vehicles on urban environments.
  • Compare types of sustainable futuristic cities in literature.
  • How does global warming impact indigenous peoples in South America?
  • What effects does a deteriorating environment have on labor conditions?
  • Explain what Oxfam does.
  • How does globalization impact sustainable agriculture?
  • What are the most significant achievements of environmental activists in recent years?
  • What makes politicians hesitant to take action against climate change ?
  • Investigate what happened to the population of Isle de Jean Charles.
  • Climate refugees: examine the disasters that cause people to flee their homes.
  • What are the unintentional consequences of climate-related relocation projects?
  • Explore the connection between nature and religion.
  • Ecology and economics: ways to find a balance.
  • Communities and health: how the way we handle the environment impacts the spread of disease.
  • Investigate methods for responsible consumption.
  • Why is sustainable development important for societies?

World Health Organization.

  • Contrast the methods of various environmentalist movements.
  • The world’s overpopulation: causes and effects.
  • Why can it be difficult to convince older generations to take action against climate change ?
  • What are the best things everyone can do to protect the environment ?
  • The role of zoos in wildlife endangerment.
  • How do changing weather patterns impact our homes?
  • What caused the increase in natural disasters over the last decade?

🔫 Social Issues Topics: War & Violence

Scientists still debate if violence is a part of human nature. Wars and terrorist attacks are disastrous events that traumatize millions of people. Still, it’s crucial not to forget about more subtle forms of violence. These include emotional neglect, bullying, and brutality in medical care.

  • What are the main reasons for nations to wage war?
  • Mental disorders and vulnerability to homicidal death.
  • The restoration of Germany after the Second World War.
  • Domestic violence in 20th century Canada.
  • Describe the most common types of violence against teenagers.
  • How does a country’s political situation impact domestic violence ?
  • Do splatter movies promote violent behavior ?
  • Should girls dress modestly to avoid being abused?
  • What is the use of war monuments?
  • The issue of girl education in India.
  • How does war influence the development of children?
  • Analyze the accuracy of the events depicted in Sam Mendes’ film 1917 .
  • Everything Quiet on the Western Front and the youth’s attitude towards fighting.
  • The treatment of veterans in your community.
  • Why do people join the army?
  • Connection between school bullying and problems in adult life.
  • What are the most common reasons for murder ?
  • How can a family move on after their child has been kidnapped?
  • Why are veterans more likely to commit suicide than average citizens?
  • Is human trafficking modern-day slavery?
  • Investigate how citizens of Cape Town deal with the high crime rate in their city.
  • What events can lead to an increase in crime?
  • Explain the socio-economic aftermaths of the Afghanistan war .
  • Examine the success of Columbia’s DESEPAZ program.
  • What is the origin of domestic violence?
  • Do schools in your country work effectively to discourage abusive behavior towards girls?
  • Why do men tend not to report domestic violence ?
  • How does emotional neglect impact children?
  • What are the best ways to prevent street violence?
  • Is there a connection between the strictness of gun laws and homicide rates ?
  • Why do women hesitate to report rape cases?
  • Rape and sexual harassment in the military .
  • An overview of Japanese mafia culture.
  • The connection between education and violence.
  • Who profits from war?
  • Are the US military expenses justified?
  • What does the “guns vs. butter” model describe?
  • Give examples of cultural norms justifying violence.
  • In how far has globalization impacted violent behavior ?
  • What triggers aggression against healthcare workers?
  • Ways to manage verbal abuse in social care.
  • Examine the Chinese phenomenon of Yi Nao.
  • Investigate the recent decriminalization of domestic abuse in Russia.
  • What was the impact of the #metoo movement ?
  • Bullying and sexual harassment at workplace.

🚓 Police & Criminal Justice Topics to Write About

Everyone should feel safe in their community. That’s what a country’s criminal justice system is for. But humans can make mistakes and be biased. Not everyone feels protected by the current system. What can we do to change that? Explore this question in one of the following creative topics:

  • What does the phrase “ defund the police ” mean?
  • What makes you feel safe in your community?
  • Describe the social standing of police officers in your country.
  • Examine if there’s evidence of structural racism in the police.
  • Is it possible to achieve true equality ?
  • Are all professions in criminal justice equally prestigious?
  • Discuss the concept of juvenile crimes.
  • Debate castration as a punishment for sexual offenders.
  • The influence of the internet on human trafficking .
  • What could the police be substituted with?
  • How does racial profiling work?
  • Should people who abuse drugs go to jail?
  • How do people become homeless in big cities?
  • Discuss the legitimization of prostitution.
  • What causes governments to oppose gay marriage ?
  • The safest ways to deescalate riots.
  • What are the best methods to discourage people from committing crimes ?
  • Define civil disobedience and its goals.
  • Victimology and traditional justice system alternatives.
  • What makes white-collar crimes more socially acceptable than others?
  • Reintroducing prisoners to society: obstacles and consequences.
  • Would society profit from the abolition of prisons?
  • What are the advantages of community services ?

Montesquieu quote.

  • How does crime differ in various social classes?
  • Justice for women: the legacy of Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
  • How do prejudices influence criminal justice mechanics?
  • Human services issues from the point of income inequality.
  • Why was the Hong Kong national security law installed?
  • How did legalizing all drugs affect Portuguese society?
  • What are the prominent civil rights issues in your country?
  • The Captain of Köpenick : the psychological effect of uniforms.
  • Why was racial segregation widely accepted in America?
  • How do witness protection programs work?
  • The right to privacy vs. safety: a case for surveillance cameras.
  • How can one save their reputation after committing a crime?
  • Compare the four deviance theories in sociology .
  • To what extent can biology explain criminal behavior ?
  • Do police officers need guns?
  • Should law enforcers need to request permission before using firearms ?
  • How did dismantling the police department in Camden, NJ impact crime?
  • Explore the connection between militarization and police violence.
  • What does the principle of qualified immunity entail?
  • Debate the use of body cameras by police officers .
  • Police violence and subterfuge.
  • What are the social benefits of jury duty?

👨👩 Gender-Related Social Issues Essay Topics

Even today, a lot of people are systematically disadvantaged because of their gender. This problem manifests itself not only in the infamous gender pay gap. For example, in the US, transgender people are banned from serving in the army. And in some countries, women are still denied fundamental rights. If you want to get to the heart of contemporary controversial issues, this section is for you.

  • Why is the number of women in positions of power still low?
  • Are quotas the only way to guarantee equal hiring processes?
  • Pros and cons of unisex bathrooms.
  • Why are matriarchal societies rare?
  • Describe how the patriarchy holds back women.
  • Conflicting theories: gay marriage and feminism.
  • Does feminism need to be radical?
  • How does gendered marketing affect child development ?
  • Should insurance companies pay for sex reassignment therapy?
  • Reasons why some people have problems with they/them pronouns.
  • What does it mean to be non-binary?
  • Investigate the treatment of women in Saudi Arabian society .
  • What makes a profession traditionally female?
  • Should women be more encouraged to join the military ?
  • Why is it more challenging for men to get full custody ?
  • Find historical examples of women who made a change in their society.
  • Should professors be required to include more women authors in their reading material?
  • Examine the treatment of the transgender community in healthcare.
  • Is gender a purely social construct?
  • What can a woman do to become more empowered ?
  • Can a patriarchal society ever achieve true gender equality ?
  • Are Disney princesses good role models?
  • Examine the representation of gender variety in popular TV shows.
  • Gender identity: promotion of equality for sexual orientation.
  • Discuss the connection between gender-biased language and oppression.
  • Why are sexist marketing practices still legal?
  • Should girls capitalize on their attractive looks?
  • Define the term “gender blindness.”
  • Do school uniforms promote gender inequality?
  • Bibiana Steinhaus: a female referee.
  • Discuss how the battle of the sexes impacted society.
  • Should men be entitled to more extended paternity leave ?
  • Can religion ensure equality?
  • How do stereotypes against women decrease their chances of getting hired?
  • Why do millions of women still have to choose between having a family or a career?
  • Explain the gender dynamics in development.
  • Should men and women play and compete in mixed sports teams?
  • What do beauty pageants teach girls?
  • Debate the importance of LGBT studies.
  • What causes gender dysphoria?
  • Do blockbuster films have the responsibility to advocate for equality?
  • Does society need gender roles to function properly?
  • What makes same-sex marriage a controversial topic in many countries?
  • Examine adoption laws for gay couples.
  • Compare gender-based violence in the UK vs. Iran.

🧔🏿 Social Topics for Essays on Racism

Slavery is abolished everywhere in the world. Still, it didn’t put an end to racism. There’s a lot of racial bias fueled by insecurity and ignorance. Because of this, ethnic minorities rarely enjoy equal opportunities. An essay on racism can raise awareness of the problem by shedding light on racial injustice.

  • How has racism changed over the past hundred years?
  • Queer of color: history and theory.
  • Who were the Khmer Rouge ?
  • Trace the development of anti-discrimination laws in your country.
  • What caused populist groups to gain popularity in recent years?
  • Did Donald Trump’s presidency increase racism towards Latin Americans?
  • What socio-economic issues do African American families face?
  • Is there a connection between racism and social progress?
  • Would there be no racism without colonialism ?
  • Discuss subtle forms of everyday racism.
  • Should women in teaching positions be allowed to wear hijabs ?
  • Nelson Mandela and the fight against apartheid .
  • What makes people scared of minorities ?
  • Who benefits from structural racism ?
  • Find out how racism manifests itself in your native language.
  • Compare the types of social segmentation.
  • Is the use of the n-word in hip hop empowering?
  • How did imperialism impact Okonkwo’s life in Things Fall Apart ?
  • In which areas of life are black Americans institutionally disadvantaged?
  • Is it appropriate for white people to wear hoop earrings?
  • The best ways to educate children about race.
  • How does cultural appropriation become harmful?
  • Racial prejudice in the movie industry.

Mahatma Gandhi quote.

  • Your position on companies renaming well-known brands to avoid claims of racism .
  • Discuss the problem of racism at institutional and interactional levels.
  • Will racism ever end?
  • Is “All lives matter” a racist statement?
  • How does environmental racism affect the living conditions of minorities?
  • Investigate the historical persecution of the Romani people.
  • What makes people racist nowadays?
  • The internet’s contribution to alleviating racism.
  • Cultivation of racism in the American society.
  • How much of a problem is reverse discrimination?
  • Trace the history of lynching and mob violence against blacks in the American South.
  • Who was Leo Frank?
  • How does discrimination differ in rich vs. developing countries?
  • Racism as a barrier to educational opportunities.
  • Does social media help fight racist bias?
  • How to responsibly handle classic movies and literature with racial prejudices .
  • What constitutes a healthy national identity ?
  • How does modern television portray minorities ?
  • Does your country’s healthcare system disadvantage minorities ?
  • Investigate what happens to the Rohingya people in Malaysia.
  • Is antisemitism still a problem in your country?
  • Does nationalism always lead to racism?

✈️ Social Awareness Topics on Migration & Refugees

Migration can have a beneficial effect on a host country’s economy. For instance, migrants can provide vital additional workforce. But an overflow of newcomers can also lead to problems. Most notably, it affects a nations’ cultural and social landscapes. “How should we deal with refugees?” is one of the most challenging political questions today.

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  • How has migration changed over the past 20 years?
  • Mexican immigration as a political controversy.
  • Why do migrants from the Middle East face more prejudice than those from Central Europe?
  • Describe the types of events that can cause major forced displacement .
  • How should governments plan for migration?
  • Why do many people in Europe have a negative attitude towards refugees ?
  • Why are foreign workers important to every nation’s economy?
  • Effective ways to integrate displaced people.
  • Critique Arizona’s new immigration laws.
  • Have refugee camps ever been a solution to the problem?
  • What drives people to immigrate illegally ?
  • Should the US’ sanctuary cities be dissolved?
  • Describe the notion of ecological migration.
  • Should Europe take in more refugees ?
  • Compare resettlement models in Canada vs. Australia.
  • What’s the difference between expats and migrants?
  • What factors make illegal immigration undesirable?
  • Has the public perception of migrants changed over the past years?
  • How important is it that immigrants speak their host country’s language?
  • What does social integration ideally consist of?
  • Discuss Chinese settlement patterns in America.
  • The advantages of dropping visa restrictions.
  • How did 9/11 affect the public’s perception of the global movement?
  • Is it morally right to marry someone just for their passport?
  • Do illegal immigrants negatively impact their host country’s society?
  • Does migration cause destabilization?
  • What does the claim “no one is illegal” advocate?
  • How does the American green card lottery work?
  • Should a child born in a foreign country automatically receive citizenship ?
  • American society wouldn’t exist without immigration . Why is it still so hostile towards foreigners?
  • Explore the link between global movement and the spread of diseases.
  • Should the government use taxpayer money to upskill refugees ?
  • Immigrants in Toronto: social and economic challenges.
  • Can expats from a distinct cultural background ever integrate into a country that doesn’t share their norms?
  • Discuss the importance of diversity to society.
  • Is there a connection between immigration rates and crime?
  • Should expats be eligible for welfare programs ?
  • Where’s the line between cultural appropriation and integration?
  • Can binational relationships work?
  • How do you become a stateless person?
  • What rights do asylum seekers have in your country?
  • Is immigration from developing countries a threat to wealthier nations?
  • Explore moral panics associated with other ethnicities.
  • What makes Europe attractive to expats?
  • Describe the common prejudices refugees have to face in Australia.

⚖️ Social Justice Essay Topics on Human Rights

You probably agree that every human deserves access to fundamental rights. Unfortunately, these are continually under threat. And it doesn’t always happen far away from you. Women, the LGBT community, and many others fight for their rights every single day.

  • Are limitations of human rights during crises justified?
  • Should we strive to achieve the same rights globally?
  • Is male circumcision shortly after birth a violation of human rights?
  • How do you prevent low-income families from sending their children to work ?
  • Capital punishment vs. the right to live.
  • Can dictatorships ensure human rights ?

Martin Luther King Jr. quote.

  • Is using sensitive language incriminating our freedom of speech?
  • Describe the achievements of Amnesty International.
  • Should Europe stop business interactions with countries that violate human rights ?
  • Examine effective ways to combat food shortages in the Global South.
  • How can governments secure freedom of speech ?
  • Should access to the internet be included as a fundamental human right?
  • Are restrictive laws concerning hijabs violating religious freedom ?
  • Charlie Hebdo and its Muhammad cartoons: did they go too far?
  • When does satire become harmful?
  • Examine how human rights are treated in the pornography industry.
  • Why are LGBT people around the world not granted the same rights as everyone else?
  • Balancing labor conditions and demand: human rights in the economy.
  • Who protects stateless persons?
  • What has changed since the first declaration of human rights?
  • How was slavery justified back in the day?
  • Why do women in many countries still not have the same rights as men?
  • The Handmaid’s Tale : how is the society in Gilead structured?
  • Discuss how vital the rights to freedom of thought and expression are.
  • To which rights should prisoners have access to?
  • Debate the fairness of the utilitarian approach.
  • How do NGOs help to ensure human rights in Somalia?
  • Human rights and the Bible : how does the church get away with violations?
  • Define different perspectives on what constitutes freedom .
  • What are the most significant human rights issues today?
  • Ethics and the media: exploiting personal tragedies for attention.
  • Prisoners are humans, too: rights violations in Guantanamo.
  • Is combating climate change a human rights issue?
  • Are cruel traditions such as honor killings justified if they are socially accepted?
  • How successful is the European Commission of Human Rights?
  • Is the death penalty a justified measure nowadays?
  • Should pets have the same rights as humans?
  • Define the difference between civil and human rights.
  • If there’s gay pride, why shouldn’t there be straight pride?
  • Unequal privilege: legal, religious, and social factors.
  • What would happen if education were free and accessible to everyone?
  • State terrorism vs. critical terrorism.
  • Did globalization make us freer?
  • Is the wellbeing of the majority more important than the wellbeing of a minority?
  • When, if ever, should men and women have different rights?

🗽 Current Social Issues Topics in America

With its variety of races and cultures, America faces many social issues. Its deeply divided political parties add more fuel to the fire. African American rights and police brutality are some of the most pressing issues in the US today.

  • Consequences of fortifying the American-Mexican border wall.
  • Should illegal immigrants always be deported when found?
  • Is the democratic system in the US in need of reform?
  • What are the social causes of obesity in the USA?
  • Negative side effects of the war on drugs .
  • How important is bipartisan cooperation?
  • What difference does it make if Russia meddled in the 2016 elections?
  • Police brutality: reasons and countermeasures.
  • Discuss the importance of reducing medical costs.
  • Racism and the police: is it an institutional problem?
  • What are the strictest cultural taboos in American society?
  • Are there enough women in American leadership positions?
  • Is sexism a significant problem in the States?
  • Describe the consequences of voter fraud.
  • Should schools teach students to be more patriotic ?
  • Discuss prescription drug abuse in America.
  • College student debt : is it a fair price to pay for a good education?
  • Will police presence in schools help curb violence?
  • What drugs should be legalized vs. remain illegal?
  • Debate the quality of political education in your state.
  • Is fake news a severe problem?
  • Financial literacy as a compulsory subject in high school.
  • How do you destigmatize taboo topics in society?
  • Why do conversations about periods make people feel uncomfortable?
  • Social causes of eating disorders in adults.
  • Discuss how various religions can live together peacefully.
  • Describe the NIMBY phenomenon.
  • What are the benefits and limitations of needle exchange programs?
  • Find reasons why peaceful protests turn into violent riots.
  • Are students in the US nowadays under too much stress ?
  • What are the harmful effects of urban sprawl ?
  • Can your vote make a difference?
  • Do American schools need to offer better sex education classes?
  • What makes people believe the Earth is flat ?
  • Why do conspiracy theories spread so quickly nowadays?
  • Traffic in California: reasons to invest in public transport.
  • Are charter schools better than public schools?
  • Compare the most prominent social movements currently active in America.
  • The legacy of Occupy Wall Street.
  • Describe the pros and cons of the Green New Deal.
  • How successful is special education in the US?
  • What causes gentrification in American cities?
  • Is immigration a strain on the American job market ?
  • Tackle the problem of prison overcrowding.
  • Investigate the effects of ableism in the States.

That’s all we’ve got for you. We hope this article was helpful. Good luck with your essay writing!

You might also be interested in:

  • 512 Research Topics on HumSS (Humanities & Social Sciences)
  • 147 Social Studies Topics for Your Research Project
  • 480 Sociology Questions & Topics with Bonus Tips
  • 560 Unique Controversial Topics & Tips for a Great Essay
  • 193 Interesting Proposal Essay Topics and Ideas
  • 197 Motivational & Inspirational Essay Topics
  • 165 Bullying Research Topics: Qualitative & Quantitative 

🔍 References

  • Lifestyles & Social Issues: Encyclopedia Britannica
  • Controversial/Contemporary Issues: How to Write a Research Paper: Campbell University
  • 3 Insights Into Writing about Social Issues: Jane Friedman
  • Key Issues: eSafety Commissioner
  • Top 10 Most Common Health Issues: University of Rochester Medical Center
  • Top 10 Most Important Environmental Issues: Iberdrola.com
  • War: Social Problems: University of Minnesota
  • Violence: a Global Public Health Problem: WHO
  • What Are the Biggest Problems Women Face Today?: Politico Magazine
  • Issues: National Center for Transgender Equality
  • List of Issues about Racism: The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights
  • Potential implications of Increasing Significance of Migration: EU
  • The Biggest Issues Facing Migrants Today — and What We Can Do to Solve Them: World Economic Forum
  • How Americans See Major National Issues: Pew Research Center
  • Social Issues and Human Rights: United Nations Environment
  • Crime & Criminal Justice: Brookings
  • Social Problems: Oxford Academic Press
  • Criminal Justice: ProPublica
  • Structural Racism in America: Urban Institute
  • Racism and Health: American Public Health Association
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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 113 perfect persuasive essay topics for any assignment.

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Do you need to write a persuasive essay but aren’t sure what topic to focus on? Were you thrilled when your teacher said you could write about whatever you wanted but are now overwhelmed by the possibilities? We’re here to help!

Read on for a list of 113 top-notch persuasive essay topics, organized into ten categories. To help get you started, we also discuss what a persuasive essay is, how to choose a great topic, and what tips to keep in mind as you write your persuasive essay.

What Is a Persuasive Essay?

In a persuasive essay, you attempt to convince readers to agree with your point of view on an argument. For example, an essay analyzing changes in Italian art during the Renaissance wouldn’t be a persuasive essay, because there’s no argument, but an essay where you argue that Italian art reached its peak during the Renaissance would be a persuasive essay because you’re trying to get your audience to agree with your viewpoint.

Persuasive and argumentative essays both try to convince readers to agree with the author, but the two essay types have key differences. Argumentative essays show a more balanced view of the issue and discuss both sides. Persuasive essays focus more heavily on the side the author agrees with. They also often include more of the author’s opinion than argumentative essays, which tend to use only facts and data to support their argument.

All persuasive essays have the following:

  • Introduction: Introduces the topic, explains why it’s important, and ends with the thesis.
  • Thesis: A sentence that sums up what the essay be discussing and what your stance on the issue is.
  • Reasons you believe your side of the argument: Why do you support the side you do? Typically each main point will have its own body paragraph.
  • Evidence supporting your argument: Facts or examples to back up your main points. Even though your opinion is allowed in persuasive essays more than most other essays, having concrete examples will make a stronger argument than relying on your opinion alone.
  • Conclusion: Restatement of thesis, summary of main points, and a recap of why the issue is important.

What Makes a Good Persuasive Essay Topic?

Theoretically, you could write a persuasive essay about any subject under the sun, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you should. Certain topics are easier to write a strong persuasive essay on, and below are tips to follow when deciding what you should write about.

It’s a Topic You Care About

Obviously, it’s possible to write an essay about a topic you find completely boring. You’ve probably done it! However, if possible, it’s always better to choose a topic that you care about and are interested in. When this is the case, you’ll find doing the research more enjoyable, writing the essay easier, and your writing will likely be better because you’ll be more passionate about and informed on the topic.

You Have Enough Evidence to Support Your Argument

Just being passionate about a subject isn’t enough to make it a good persuasive essay topic, though. You need to make sure your argument is complex enough to have at least two potential sides to root for, and you need to be able to back up your side with evidence and examples. Even though persuasive essays allow your opinion to feature more than many other essays, you still need concrete evidence to back up your claims, or you’ll end up with a weak essay.

For example, you may passionately believe that mint chocolate chip ice cream is the best ice cream flavor (I agree!), but could you really write an entire essay on this? What would be your reasons for believing mint chocolate chip is the best (besides the fact that it’s delicious)? How would you support your belief? Have enough studies been done on preferred ice cream flavors to support an entire essay? When choosing a persuasive essay idea, you want to find the right balance between something you care about (so you can write well on it) and something the rest of the world cares about (so you can reference evidence to strengthen your position).

It’s a Manageable Topic

Bigger isn’t always better, especially with essay topics. While it may seem like a great idea to choose a huge, complex topic to write about, you’ll likely struggle to sift through all the information and different sides of the issue and winnow them down to one streamlined essay. For example, choosing to write an essay about how WWII impacted American life more than WWI wouldn’t be a great idea because you’d need to analyze all the impacts of both the wars in numerous areas of American life. It’d be a huge undertaking. A better idea would be to choose one impact on American life the wars had (such as changes in female employment) and focus on that. Doing so will make researching and writing your persuasive essay much more feasible.

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List of 113 Good Persuasive Essay Topics

Below are over 100 persuasive essay ideas, organized into ten categories. When you find an idea that piques your interest, you’ll choose one side of it to argue for in your essay. For example, if you choose the topic, “should fracking be legal?” you’d decide whether you believe fracking should be legal or illegal, then you’d write an essay arguing all the reasons why your audience should agree with you.

Arts/Culture

  • Should students be required to learn an instrument in school?
  • Did the end of Game of Thrones fit with the rest of the series?
  • Can music be an effective way to treat mental illness?
  • With e-readers so popular, have libraries become obsolete?
  • Are the Harry Potter books more popular than they deserve to be?
  • Should music with offensive language come with a warning label?
  • What’s the best way for museums to get more people to visit?
  • Should students be able to substitute an art or music class for a PE class in school?
  • Are the Kardashians good or bad role models for young people?
  • Should people in higher income brackets pay more taxes?
  • Should all high school students be required to take a class on financial literacy?
  • Is it possible to achieve the American dream, or is it only a myth?
  • Is it better to spend a summer as an unpaid intern at a prestigious company or as a paid worker at a local store/restaurant?
  • Should the United States impose more or fewer tariffs?
  • Should college graduates have their student loans forgiven?
  • Should restaurants eliminate tipping and raise staff wages instead?
  • Should students learn cursive writing in school?
  • Which is more important: PE class or music class?
  • Is it better to have year-round school with shorter breaks throughout the year?
  • Should class rank be abolished in schools?
  • Should students be taught sex education in school?
  • Should students be able to attend public universities for free?
  • What’s the most effective way to change the behavior of school bullies?
  • Are the SAT and ACT accurate ways to measure intelligence?
  • Should students be able to learn sign language instead of a foreign language?
  • Do the benefits of Greek life at colleges outweigh the negatives?
  • Does doing homework actually help students learn more?
  • Why do students in many other countries score higher than American students on math exams?
  • Should parents/teachers be able to ban certain books from schools?
  • What’s the best way to reduce cheating in school?
  • Should colleges take a student’s race into account when making admissions decisions?
  • Should there be limits to free speech?
  • Should students be required to perform community service to graduate high school?
  • Should convicted felons who have completed their sentence be allowed to vote?
  • Should gun ownership be more tightly regulated?
  • Should recycling be made mandatory?
  • Should employers be required to offer paid leave to new parents?
  • Are there any circumstances where torture should be allowed?
  • Should children under the age of 18 be able to get plastic surgery for cosmetic reasons?
  • Should white supremacy groups be allowed to hold rallies in public places?
  • Does making abortion illegal make women more or less safe?
  • Does foreign aid actually help developing countries?
  • Are there times a person’s freedom of speech should be curtailed?
  • Should people over a certain age not be allowed to adopt children?

Government/Politics

  • Should the minimum voting age be raised/lowered/kept the same?
  • Should Puerto Rico be granted statehood?
  • Should the United States build a border wall with Mexico?
  • Who should be the next person printed on American banknotes?
  • Should the United States’ military budget be reduced?
  • Did China’s one child policy have overall positive or negative impacts on the country?
  • Should DREAMers be granted US citizenship?
  • Is national security more important than individual privacy?
  • What responsibility does the government have to help homeless people?
  • Should the electoral college be abolished?
  • Should the US increase or decrease the number of refugees it allows in each year?
  • Should privately-run prisons be abolished?
  • Who was the most/least effective US president?
  • Will Brexit end up helping or harming the UK?

body-sparkler-us-flag

  • What’s the best way to reduce the spread of Ebola?
  • Is the Keto diet a safe and effective way to lose weight?
  • Should the FDA regulate vitamins and supplements more strictly?
  • Should public schools require all students who attend to be vaccinated?
  • Is eating genetically modified food safe?
  • What’s the best way to make health insurance more affordable?
  • What’s the best way to lower the teen pregnancy rate?
  • Should recreational marijuana be legalized nationwide?
  • Should birth control pills be available without a prescription?
  • Should pregnant women be forbidden from buying cigarettes and alcohol?
  • Why has anxiety increased in adolescents?
  • Are low-carb or low-fat diets more effective for weight loss?
  • What caused the destruction of the USS Maine?
  • Was King Arthur a mythical legend or actual Dark Ages king?
  • Was the US justified in dropping atomic bombs during WWII?
  • What was the primary cause of the Rwandan genocide?
  • What happened to the settlers of the Roanoke colony?
  • Was disagreement over slavery the primary cause of the US Civil War?
  • What has caused the numerous disappearances in the Bermuda triangle?
  • Should nuclear power be banned?
  • Is scientific testing on animals necessary?
  • Do zoos help or harm animals?
  • Should scientists be allowed to clone humans?
  • Should animals in circuses be banned?
  • Should fracking be legal?
  • Should people be allowed to keep exotic animals as pets?
  • What’s the best way to reduce illegal poaching in Africa?
  • What is the best way to reduce the impact of global warming?
  • Should euthanasia be legalized?
  • Is there legitimate evidence of extraterrestrial life?
  • Should people be banned from owning aggressive dog breeds?
  • Should the United States devote more money towards space exploration?
  • Should the government subsidize renewable forms of energy?
  • Is solar energy worth the cost?
  • Should stem cells be used in medicine?
  • Is it right for the US to leave the Paris Climate Agreement?
  • Should athletes who fail a drug test receive a lifetime ban from the sport?
  • Should college athletes receive a salary?
  • Should the NFL do more to prevent concussions in players?
  • Do PE classes help students stay in shape?
  • Should horse racing be banned?
  • Should cheerleading be considered a sport?
  • Should children younger than 18 be allowed to play tackle football?
  • Are the costs of hosting an Olympic Games worth it?
  • Can online schools be as effective as traditional schools?
  • Do violent video games encourage players to be violent in real life?
  • Should facial recognition technology be banned?
  • Does excessive social media use lead to depression/anxiety?
  • Has the rise of translation technology made knowing multiple languages obsolete?
  • Was Steve Jobs a visionary or just a great marketer?
  • Should social media be banned for children younger than a certain age?
  • Which 21st-century invention has had the largest impact on society?
  • Are ride-sharing companies like Uber and Lyft good or bad for society?
  • Should Facebook have done more to protect the privacy of its users?
  • Will technology end up increasing or decreasing inequality worldwide?

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Tips for Writing a Strong Persuasive Essay

After you’ve chosen the perfect topic for your persuasive essay, your work isn’t over. Follow the three tips below to create a top-notch essay.

Do Your Research

Your argument will fall apart if you don’t fully understand the issue you’re discussing or you overlook an important piece of it. Readers won’t be convinced by someone who doesn’t know the subject, and you likely won’t persuade any of them to begin supporting your viewpoint. Before you begin writing a single word of your essay, research your topic thoroughly. Study different sources, learn about the different sides of the argument, ask anyone who’s an expert on the topic what their opinion is, etc. You might be tempted to start writing right away, but by doing your research, you’ll make the writing process much easier when the time comes.

Make Your Thesis Perfect

Your thesis is the most important sentence in your persuasive essay. Just by reading that single sentence, your audience should know exactly what topic you’ll be discussing and where you stand on the issue. You want your thesis to be crystal clear and to accurately set up the rest of your essay. Asking classmates or your teacher to look it over before you begin writing the rest of your essay can be a big help if you’re not entirely confident in your thesis.

Consider the Other Side

You’ll spend most of your essay focusing on your side of the argument since that’s what you want readers to come away believing. However, don’t think that means you can ignore other sides of the issue. In your essay, be sure to discuss the other side’s argument, as well as why you believe this view is weak or untrue. Researching all the different viewpoints and including them in your essay will increase the quality of your writing by making your essay more complete and nuanced.

Summary: Persuasive Essay Ideas

Good persuasive essay topics can be difficult to come up with, but in this guide we’ve created a list of 113 excellent essay topics for you to browse. The best persuasive essay ideas will be those that you are interested in, have enough evidence to support your argument, and aren’t too complicated to be summarized in an essay.

After you’ve chosen your essay topic, keep these three tips in mind when you begin writing:

  • Do your research
  • Make your thesis perfect
  • Consider the other side

What's Next?

Need ideas for a research paper topic as well?   Our guide to research paper topics has over 100 topics in ten categories so you can be sure to find the perfect topic for you. 

Thinking about taking an AP English class? Read our guide on AP English classes to learn whether you should take AP English Language or AP English Literature (or both!)

Deciding between the SAT or ACT? Find out for sure which you will do the best on . Also read a detailed comparison between the two tests .

Need more help with this topic? Check out Tutorbase!

Our vetted tutor database includes a range of experienced educators who can help you polish an essay for English or explain how derivatives work for Calculus. You can use dozens of filters and search criteria to find the perfect person for your needs.

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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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15 Persuasive Essay Topics About Controversial Issues

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Controversial issues can be a great way to get your students engaged, and they also make perfect persuasive essay topics.

Whether your goal is to explore the controversial issue itself or to teach the mechanics of persuasive writing, controversial issues and persuasive essays go hand in hand.

In order to write a good persuasive essay, you need to feel passionately about an argument. Having a good prompt and a good issue let’s you do that.

The flip side is that to show you really understand a controversial issue, you have to make an argument about it. A persuasive essay is the perfect summative assessment to see whether a student really understands the issue and can articulate their opinion.

Below, I’ll share a list of 15 persuasive essay topics and writing prompts that you can use with your class. If you scroll down to the bottom, I’ll also wrap up with some other methods and resources that can help you teach these controversial issues and how to write argumentative essays.

List of Persuasive Essay Topics and Writing Prompts

So, without further ado, here’s a list of questions that would make great writing prompts for a persuasive essay.

Should the Government Ban or Regulate Indecency on Television?

This is a controversial issue as old as the airwaves. As long as there’s been radio and television, there have been arguments about what is acceptable and what is obscene.

If you’re studying constitutional law or taking AP U.S. Government, you’re probably familiar with George Carlin and his famous “ Seven Dirty Words ” bit. But for the average student, this persuasive writing topic is still relevant.

Think about the music you hear on the radio. What is bleeped out? Why do we have “dirty” and “clean” versions of hit songs? Why are some television shows allowed to curse, be violent, and have nudity, while others don’t?

You could definitely take this broader topic and make it more specific and timely by relating it to a current hit song or television show that your students are in to.

But however you phrase it, whether or not the government should regulate indecency on television is a great persuasive essay topic.

Should Voters Be Required to Show Identification?

For the last few years, this has been an increasingly hot topic as individual states have moved to implement various forms of voter ID laws. On the face of it, this sounds reasonable, but underneath the surface there are arguments about voter suppression and exclusion.

Is voter fraud a problem that needs to be dealt with? An answer to this question should likely depend on some research about the extent to which people are impersonating voters to enter the voting booth.

What kind of ID should be required? Different types of ID have different requirements to obtain them, and so this choice matters to.

Finally, how do you deal with the potential for discriminatory exclusion? Some people – the elderly, the young, low income – are more likely to not have ID, and for some people it can be a financial burden to secure the documentation necessary to get an ID.

Here’s a great, short NY Times Op-Doc video about the issue, which leans more to the “against” side of voter ID laws .

This ongoing policy debate about Voter ID laws makes for a great argumentative essay topic.

Should Race Be a Factor in Admissions to Universities?

Affirmative action has been a controversial issue for decades. Initially, the debate was over whether or not strict racial quotas were an appropriate way to make up for centuries of discrimination and segregation.

These early forms of affirmative action were struck down by the Supreme Court in Regents of the University of California vs Bakke , but other forms of affirmative action survived. Bakke affirmed that universities could use race as one factor in their admissions, and universities have been trying to strike the proper balance since.

A few years ago, the U.S. Supreme Court weighed in again – in Fisher v. University of Texas – and upheld more holistic processes designed to ensure diversity. But in the aftermath of Fisher , a group of students have brought a case against Harvard that is likely destined to find itself at the Supreme Court soon.

Which begs the original question – is it appropriate for a University to use race as a factor in admissions in order to guarantee diversity of its student body?

Should the Government Limit the Amount of Money Spent on Political Campaigns?

The influence of money in politics is another issue that has been fought out in the Supreme Court over the last 50 years. Money in politics is nothing new, and there are plenty examples of its corrupting influence in the early history of the United States.

But since the 1970’s, the federal government has struggled to strike a proper balance between regulation and free speech. Early campaign finance laws sought to restrict spending, and that was ultimately overturned. More recently, McCain-Feingold (aka BCRA) tried to funnel campaign spending into committees that have strict disclosure and contribution regulations.

Much of that came to an end with Citizens United , and since 2010 there has been a renewed surge of “dark” money in politics. So there’s really two parts to this question – a) should there be restrictions on how much money people can contribute and/or spend and b) does the public have a right to know who is contributing money to whom?

One way or another, the question of campaign finance is a great persuasive essay topic.

Should the Government Publicly Finance Campaigns?

Related to the previous question, you might also use this question as an argumentative essay prompt – should the government avoid the influence of money altogether by publicly funding campaigns?

There are some examples to look at. In 1974, the federal government set up a Presidential Election Campaign Fund, and candidates can use it to get matching dollar amounts if they agree to certain restrictions. But since Citizens United , the program has largely fallen out of favor.

New Jersey is one of several states with a public funding option for gubernatorial campaigns, and Arizona and Maine have more comprehensive systems offering public funding for state legislative elections. But these laws have also been challenged in court, and part of Arizona’s public financing law was struck down by the Supreme Court in 2011.

A simple version of this persuasive essay topic would focus on whether or not the government should publicly finance campaigns, while a more complex version might touch on how the government could do it in a way that withstood judicial scrutiny.

Should the United States Intervene When Foreign Dictators Use Chemical Weapons on Their Own People?

This is a more narrow version of the general question – should the United States intervene in foreign countries or mind its own business?

In some historical cases – like World War II and the Holocaust – it seems pretty obvious that intervention is a good idea. But in the present moment, it’s a little harder to identify that dividing line.

There have been a number of recent cases along these lines – Syria, Iraq, Bosnia & Herzegovina. Students will likely have a huge range of opinions on the issue, with some being fiercely isolationist and others advocating intervention on the slightest chance of abuse.

This is one of my favorite persuasive essay topics because it links up so directly with a theme that I talk a lot about in class – conflict. Read more about teaching with themes here.

Should the Federal Government Raise the Minimum Wage to $15 per hour?

The federal minimum wage is $7.25, and it’s been there since 2009. With the Fight for $15 movement is gaining steam around the country, this would make a great persuasive writing topic.

What once seemed kind of crazy is slowly becoming more realistic. First, some progressive cities took the lead, like Seattle. Now, some states are following suit – including New Jersey and Illinois.

Of course, there’s still plenty of pushback against this idea and a national minimum wage hike doesn’t seem to be in the cards in the near future. But a student could certainly take a side and stake out an argument – and maybe even send it to their legislature.

This is another one of the persuasive essay topics that relates directly back to a major theme in social studies – this time the theme of economics, and whether or not the economy is fair. Read more here about essential questions related to economics.

Should Congress Require Annual Standardized Tests in Schools?

Here’s another essay topic that’s particularly relevant for students. Every student knows the pain of testing – in fact just this morning, I spent several hours proctoring the New Jersey Student Learning Assessment (NJSLA).

Testing has been around a long time, but the frequency of it increased – and was required nationwide – after the 2001 reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (aka “No Child Left Behind”). Congress took another look at the issue with the next reauthorization – the Every Student Succeeds Act – but they ended up leaving the testing mandate alone.

So what do your students think? Ask them and have them write an argumentative essay about it.

You could also put a twist on this question by focusing on the use of tests as an exit requirement. There’s no federal mandate for this, but some states do require students to pass a standardized test to graduate. For older students, this surely a topic about which they’ll have an opinion.

Should the United States Grant Asylum to Refugees?

This is another age old question that has taken on new relevance. From the beginning of its history, the United States took in people who could be considered refugees. Historically, the greatest test of this question may be the Holocaust, and early on the United States failed that test.

You can watch this PBS Frontline episode, Forever Prison , to learn about the plight of Haitian refugees to the United States in the 1990’s. More recently, there are refugees looking to come to the United States from the Middle East and from Latin America. If your students spend any time watching the news, they’ve surely heard something about this.

This topic could revolve around what people are fleeing from. Should we only accept refugees from religious persecution and human rights abuses? What about crime or poverty? Or natural disasters?

It’s a complex question that gets to the heart of the immigration policy debate – and makes a perfect argumentative essay prompt.

Should the Government Have Access to Encrypted Devices and Communications Platforms?

The topic of government surveillance pops up in the news from time to time. Under Bush, there was the warrantless wire-tapping, the use of phone metadata, and the FBI snooping on e-mails.

More recently, this question focuses on access to encrypted communication platforms – like WhatsApp. To your students, these are probably just convenient ways to chat with each other. But to people with security concerns, they’re also a way to make sure that no one is listening in on their conversations.

There could be some good reasons for that. There could also be some bad reasons. Apparently terrorist groups like ISIS have used these encrypted communication platforms to plan attacks, which begs the question – should the government have some kind of backdoor to get in?

Some students will shrug this off and think it’s no big deal, while others will probably react with quite a bit of concern.

Should the Federal Government Permit or Ban the Death Penalty?

This is a good argumentative essay topic to use in conjunction with the Bill of Rights. The Eighth Amendment says no cruel unusual punishment – which should mean no death penalty, right?

Of course, there’s a historical angle to this. The death penalty was widely accepted in 1789, so you can make an argument that the Eighth Amendment doesn’t forbid it.

But there’s also the angle of justice and equity. In the 1970’s, through a series of court cases, the death penalty was deemed arbitrary and capricious – because it tended to be used more against certain offenders (i.e. African Americans).

This led to some reforms, and some states have continued to use the death penalty. Texas is leading the way on that front. Other states, however, have banned it, while others have put a moratorium on executions because of concerns over the method of execution.

Should Hate Speech Be Protected by the First Amendment?

This is another great writing prompt to use with the Bill of Rights, and it’s one that’s sure to elicit strong reaction from your students.

Supreme Court caselaw has held that speech – even hate speech – is protected by the First Amendment. A pivotal case in this vein was Brandenburg v. Ohio . In that case, the Court decided that speech could only be limited if it created an imminent danger, not because it was hateful.

Another way to frame the question is to focus on social media platforms. Recently, Facebook, Twitter, and other companies have come under fire for allowing White Supremacists to share various forms of hate speech on their platforms. One could then make a connection to any number of violent incidents throughout the country (or the world).

So if the government can’t regulate hate speech because of the First Amendment, does a platform like Facebook have an obligation to do so? Great topic for a persuasive essay.

Should the Government Send a Manned Mission to Mars?

I love space, so this question really appeals to me. Fifty years ago, people might have thought JFK was crazy when he planned to send a man to the moon. I’m sure there were plenty of heated debates about that.

Today’s frontier is a bit further away, but is it any more crazy? Sure, there are some technological leaps that need to be taken before it’s possible. But in the early 1960’s, putting a man on the moon may have seemed crazy, too.

But it’s an important question for the space program. What’s next? Back to the moon, on to Mars, or something else? Or should we just hang out on Earth for a while and try to fix what we’ve got here?

Maybe it’s the science fiction fan in me, but I just think this is a great topic to think about. I’d love to see what students would write about this in an argumentative essay.

Should the Federal Government Have to Balance the Budget?

This is a question that should come with a heavy dose of economics and economic policy. But it’s one worth asking. It could also be a good vehicle for teaching some of these concepts that might otherwise seem boring and wonky.

You could also connect this back to history. When you teach about the early years of the nation and Alexander Hamilton’s role as the Secretary of the Treasury, there’s undoubtedly something that comes up about the National Debt. Instead of talking about that in historical isolation, you can connect that today and think about the current federal budget.

This is also back in the news this week, with moderate Democrats (i.e. the Blue Dog Coalition backing a concept that has traditionally been more closely associated with Republicans. Perhaps it’s a blip on the national scene and the topic will fade away, but if it’s in the headlines why not use it as a persuasive essay topic?

Should the Voting Age be Lowered to 16?

We’ll end with this one because it has a direct impact on students. Should teenagers be allowed to vote?

A few years ago, this might have sounded crazy. But over the last few years there have been several municipalities that lowered their voting age to 16. At the federal level, Rep. Ayanna Pressley introduced an amendment to a bill on federal election reform that would have lowered the age for participation in Congressional and Presidential elections.

There’s also a historical angle to this question. Once upon a time – not all that long ago – you couldn’t vote at 18. To today’s students it may seem like a fait accompli , but the 26th Amendment that lowered the voting age was less than fifty years ago. At the founding of the country, some states required voters to be as old as 25.

So let students wrestle with this writing prompt in an argumentative essay and put together an argument for (or against) lowering the voting age.

Other Methods and Resources for Teaching Controversial Issues and Persuasive Essays

A big piece of teaching how to write a persuasive essay is the topic, but – especially with controversial issues – it also helps to teach some background about the topics.

One place you can look for resources for these questions is C-SPAN’s Classrooms Deliberations . These are in depth lessons on current policy debates that come scaffolded with C-SPAN videos and other resources. Some of these questions are featured in these Deliberations lessons, and this can be a great place to find the factual resources your students need to write good arguments.

Two other methods that you could think about using with these controversial issues are Take a Stand and A/B Writing . With the Take a Stand activity, students arrange themselves on a continuum based on how they feel about a question. With A/B writing, students choose a statement to agree with and write down their reason for choosing it. Either method is a great way to get students to start thinking about a topic that’s going to turn into a persuasive essay.

Finally, a lot of these issues are things that are debates that are playing out in the country right now. If you follow the news, you’re bound to hear about many of these issues on a weekly basis. Better yet, if you teach current events on a regular basis in your class, you can have your students relate what they’ve learned in the news to these essays. Here are some resources on how to use CNN10 to teach current events in your class .

Which Issue Have You Used From These Persuasive Essay Topics?

Have you used one of these topics in your class? How did you students respond?

Do you have another controversial issue that you’ve used as a topic for a persuasive essay? What was it?

Drop a line in the comment below and share with our readers.

1 comments on “15 Persuasive Essay Topics About Controversial Issues”

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  • Anna H. Smith
  • November 27, 2020

I really appreciate this website. I have learned some inciteful writing information. I feel strongly that I can go forward with the information that I have gained from this post. Great persuasive controversial essays you have shared. Thanks very much.

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Popular request:

Best social issues topics for your essay – find them here.

November 13, 2019

Social issues influence people within a society, and people strive to find solutions to them. Often, they are the consequences of factors extending beyond an individual’s control. Social issues are the source of a conflicting opinion on the ground of what is perceived as morally correct or incorrect personal life.

social-issues-topics

Different individuals and societies have different perceptions. Therefore, what is considered a social problem in one culture may be an entire typical event in another community.

Some Social Issue Tips You Include in Your Essay are:

  • Religion. Different religious settings and places of worship have bonds that bring their followers together. Some of these religious groups also tend to be healthy and glued together by the values they share.
  • Gender identity. How we identify ourselves makes a huge social difference in the way we interact with one another. For example, lesbian bars are social meeting places for lesbians. Some joints only attract men or women.
  • The government and social life. The government follows our posts on social media, therefore hindering what we can and cannot post. The government does this to control political comments that may stir hatred in the country.
  • War. Various wars have created a rift in different social settings; for example, people from Arabian countries are strictly on what they can post on social media.
  • Family and single parenthood. Single-parent families also cause social issues in different social settings. Family, primarily single parenthood, may affect growth in children, especially criticism from their peers, and may also affect the children’s mental and emotional health.
  • Drugs and alcohol abuse. Drugs may have a significant effect on people’s health and emotional issues because of addiction and changes they may have on an individual’s behavior in society.
  • Social media and bullying. Bullying can cause suicidal thoughts and changes in a person’s behavior.
  • Materialism. Fashion and lifestyle trends can have an impact on how both teenagers and adults communicate with each other in society.
  • Obesity and social life. Body shaming is also an issue that affects how people interact in a social setting.
  • Education. Educational disparity, which also impacts one’s financial status, may also be a cause for social differences in society.
  • Social life and the economy. Social life and finances can also be a line between people in some social setups.
  • Poverty and social life. Economic and financial status may also cause a difference among people.
  • National pride and identity. These two also determine how people communicate with one another.
  • The internet versus social life. The internet also differentiates how people interact with one another.
  • The power of advertisements. Different types of products also define different types of people.
  • Suicide and social media. Social media has been one of the major causes of suicidal thoughts.
  • Procrastination. Students, for example, may put off assignments for other fun activities. While procrastination may improve one’s social life, it may ruin their academic performance.
  • Racism. Racism is one of the types of categorization in the contemporary world that ultimately affects how people interact socially.
  • Gender discrimination and anti-harassment movements that are popular, especially at places of work, social media, or other social settings, also affect people’s social lives.
  • The issue of pornography is also some social issues that may affect how people interact with each other.
  • Isolation of people living with HIV/AIDS. Symptoms like HIV/AIDS and other diseases also determine whether people are accepting or disapproving others in their social circles.

List of Current Social Issues

Current social issues refer to the numerous modern-day problems that have hit conventional media as well as social media headlines. They include the following:

  • The question of abortion
  • Gay marriage
  • Marital rape
  • Government mandates
  • The frequent power advertisement
  • Obesity and social life
  • Poverty and social life
  • Materialism
  • Social media propagating bad vices, especially among the youths
  • Cyberbullying
  • Social stratification
  • Sex work also referred to as paid rape
  • Beauty standards

Social Issues in America

Considering the great diversity in America, there are issues with the following:

  • An expensive educational system that does not meet the needs of society
  • Inequality in terms of wealth and income
  • Equality of standing, concerning race, sexual orientation, ethnicity or religion
  • Accessible and affordable healthcare
  • Unfair law enforcement and a lousy prison system
  • The fight over the need for guns
  • Unemployment
  • Illegal migration
  • Discrimination and racism
  • Environment and climate change

Causes of Social Issues

These are the general factors that affect society. They transform an individual’s real lives. The principal objectives of social problems are poverty, rapid population growth, unemployment, urbanization, lack of education, gender discrimination, as well as superstitious beliefs.

In most cases, people practice and promote social injustices because they are ignorant of the adversities. Nonetheless, several organizations are working on trying and eliminating these social problems. Below are some of the causes of social issues:

  • Rapid population growth – this is the increase in the number of individuals. Human migration and demographic factors cause rapid population growth as well as increasing the birth rate. Often, population growth comes with an increase in unemployment and poverty.
  • Urbanization – refers to the population shift from rural to urban areas. People believe that living in a city can provide opportunities, diversities, and market place completion. Yet, with urbanization comes enormous social, economic, and environmental changes. It comes with an increased cost of living, stress, and negative social aspects that result from a mass.
  • Lack of education – people with poor education, are at risk from a lifetime of extensive manual work and mental healthcare, poor diet, living conditions, and social situations. Due to lack of education, people do not take care of themselves because they are less educated about topics such as family planning and good hygiene.
  • Unemployment – this occurs when a person who is actively searching for employment is unable to find work. The reason why unemployment is one of the causes of social problems is that it leads to frustration — leading the victims into burglary, looting, murder, theft, robbery, etc.
  • Poverty – this is the lack of a certain amount of material possessions or money. With poverty comes the lack of food, health services, basic human needs, and others.
  • Superstitious beliefs – certain superstitious beliefs are deeply rooted in some societies which promote social problems. The beliefs in various traditions may also impact an individual’s progress. Superstitious beliefs happen because people are innocent; they are not conscious of the consequences of their beliefs and practices. Such people are very gullible. Hence, they are easily convinced and cheated.
  • Gender discrimination profoundly influences our societies. The males finalize most decisions. In most cases, perception may not be visible on the surface.

Social issues transform almost every aspect of society. Therefore, while writing an essay on social problems, you need to pick a topic that is most appealing to you. Selecting a topic is vital and goes a long way in determining your grade. So, before choosing any topic, make sure you pick a topic you find interesting and one that you can research and write on with ease. Here are examples of essay topics on social issues:

  • Define racism and describe the impact it can have on society.
  • Write a persuasive essay explaining how social media has impaired face-to-face conversations.
  • Write an essay and demonstrate the challenges single parents face.
  • Define gender and explain how it impacts the lives of people around you.
  • Explain five stereotypes used towards the LGBT people.
  • Explain how teen pregnancy and how it affects young girls.
  • Does domestic violence affect children?
  • Discuss the causes of bullying in school.
  • Why is prostitution not legal in many countries
  • Explain how cybercrime affects people’s lives

There are more examples of social issues essay topics on different categories, which include the following:

Social Justice Essay Topics:

  • Is ageism similar to racism?
  • What are the consequences of deprivation of health?
  • Do convicts still get punished even after serving time?
  • How fair are labor laws?
  • What is society’s perception of domestic violence towards men?
  • Is discrimination towards pregnant women on the rise?

Pornography Essay Topics:

  • Dealing with pornography addiction
  • Children and pornography.
  • Shaming of pornstars in society.
  • Is suicide common in the porn industry?
  • How a society treats pornstars who cross over to other industries
  • Does pornography addiction affect family life?

Migration and Immigration Topics:

  • Refugees in the world
  • What are the consequences of building a wall between Mexico and America?
  • Living undocumented: the deportation of illegal immigrants
  • What is the history of Australian immigration?

Peace and War Topics:

  • Impact of war on terrorism in society
  • Is society keen on peace education?
  • What role do women play in war?
  • War crimes across the world.
  • What role does the media play in wartime?

Discrimination and Prejudice Topics:

  • Stereotypes in the US.
  • Racial profiling: How does it affect society?
  • Discrimination in sports
  • Hate speech in the job market
  • White privilege in society
  • Perception of same-sex couples

Cultural Property Topics:

  • Cultural heritage theft
  • Protection of cultural heritage
  • Food culture and the differences it stirs in society

Illiteracy Topics:

  • Illiteracy in the digital age
  • Problems caused by illiteracy
  • How does emotional illiteracy affect families?
  • Examples of illiteracy and how they affect American society

Violence Topics:

  • The effect of political unrest on domestic violence.
  • Rape culture in society
  • How gangs and violence affect Miami

Consumption and Development Topics:

  • Overconsumption in the US
  • The consumption culture in America
  • Consumption in different industries.

In conclusion, writing essays on social issues is not a big challenge, as some students believe. The secret in writing, such as essay, is to understand or have an idea about a specific social issue you wish to handle. But in case you’re not ready to write such an essay on your own, don’t be afraid to ask for help of the best writing service out there.

It’s time to nail your grades! Get your 20% discount on social issues writing assignment with promo “ ewriting20 ” – and enjoy your college life!

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UN chief calls for global action to defend women’s rights amid disturbing trends

Beneficiaries of a UNICEF Livelihood Empowerment against Poverty (LEAP) programme in Ghana.

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The UN Secretary-General on Monday highlighted the urgent need to defend women's rights which are under threat, citing a reversal in hard-won progress, increasing violence against women and a growing digital gender divide.

Addressing the opening of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), the pivotal forum dedicated to promoting and safeguarding the rights of women and girls worldwide, Secretary-General António Guterres stressed the disproportionate impact of wars on women.

“In conflict zones around the globe, women and girls are suffering most from wars waged by men,” he said, urging immediate ceasefires and humanitarian aid.

He emphasized the appalling situation in Gaza, where over two-thirds of those killed and injured during Israel’s offensive are reportedly women and girls. He also noted shocking testimonies of sexual violence against Palestinian women in detention settings, house raids and checkpoints in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.

In Israel, he added, last week’s report released by UN Special Representative Pramila Patten highlights horrific sexual violence against women and girls and indications of sexualized torture during the terror attacks launched by Hamas and other armed groups on 7 October.

Mr. Guterres also voiced concern over the situation faced by women in other countries, including Afghanistan and Sudan.

“In Afghanistan, the Taliban has issued more than 50 edicts suppressing women’s and girls’ rights. In Sudan, scores of women have reportedly been subjected to rape and other forms of sexual violence in the ongoing conflict,” he said.

Women peacemakers

Secretary-General Guterres stressed that despite evidence that women’s full participation makes peacebuilding much more effective, the number of women in decision-making roles is falling.

“The facts are clear: Women lead to peace,” he said, calling for more funding and new policies to boost women’s participation and investment in women peacebuilders.

Secretary-General António Guterres opens the sixty-eighth session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW68).

Digital gender divide

The UN chief also emphasized a growing digital gender divide, noting the dominance of men in digital technologies, particularly in Artificial Intelligence.

He warned that male-dominated algorithms could perpetuate inequalities into various aspects of life, noting that women’s needs, bodies and fundamental rights are often overlooked in the design of systems by male leaders and technologists.

“It’s time for governments, civil society and the Silicon Valleys of the world to join a massive effort to bridge the digital gender divide and ensure women have decision-making roles in digital technology at all levels,” he urged.

Breaking glass ceilings

Mr. Guterres also drew attention to the pressing need for women to hold leadership roles, particularly in financial institutions.

He highlighted the stark gender disparity in finance, with over eight  of ten finance ministers and more than nine out of ten central bank governors being men.

The Secretary-General emphasized that dismantling structural barriers is crucial for achieving gender parity in leadership roles.

“Overwhelmingly male-dominated financial institutions need to dismantle the structural barriers that are blocking women from leadership roles,” he said.

Drawing parallels with the UN’s successful achievement of full gender parity among senior management and leaders worldwide, he urged governments, banks and businesses to replicate these efforts, emphasizing that change does not happen by accident.

Call to action

The Secretary-General concluded his address by urging the international community to unite in the fight for gender equality, emphasizing that the CSW serves as a catalyst for transformative change.  

He called for collaborative efforts to end poverty in all its dimensions.

“Let’s do it by investing in women and girls, betting on women and girls, and pushing for peace and dignity for women and girls everywhere,” Mr. Guterres said.

General Assembly President Dennis Francis addresses the opening of the sixty-eighth session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW68).

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The President of the General Assembly, Dennis Francis, continued the call to action, highlighting the urgency of intensifying efforts to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

With the world currently lagging attaining the Goals, particularly the Goal to eradicate extreme poverty (SDG1), Mr. Francis revealed a stark reality:

“Currently, one in every ten women lives in extreme poverty – I repeat – one in every ten women,” he said.

Underscoring the need for a multidimensional approach, the Assembly President urged equal access to resources, gender-responsive social protection policies, and measures to end gender-based discrimination inhibiting women’s leadership and decision-making roles.

68th session

The 68th session of the Commission on the Status of Women is taking place from 11 to 22 March at the UN Headquarters, in New York, under the priority theme, “Accelerating the achievement of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls by addressing poverty and strengthening institutions and financing with a gender perspective.”

Held every year, CSW is the largest global gathering of civil society representatives, government officials, policy makers and experts to take stock of progress on gender equality, discuss pressing issues and agree on actions to transform the lives of women and girls everywhere.

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Pakistan: Five major issues to watch in 2023

Subscribe to the center for middle east policy newsletter, madiha afzal madiha afzal fellow - foreign policy , center for middle east policy , strobe talbott center for security, strategy, and technology @madihaafzal.

January 13, 2023

1. Political instability, polarization, and an election year

Politics will likely consume much of Pakistan’s time and attention in 2023, as it did in 2022. The country’s turn to political instability last spring did not end with a dramatic no-confidence vote in parliament last April that ousted then Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan from office. Instability and polarization have only heightened since then: Khan has led a popular opposition movement against the incumbent coalition government and the military, staging a series of large rallies across the country through the year.

The struggle for power in Pakistan continues into 2023. While the incumbent government has not ceded to Khan’s demand for early elections, country-wide elections are constitutionally mandated to be held by October this year. It benefits the government politically to hold them off as long as it possibly can as it tries to dig itself out of Pakistan’s urgent economic crisis and its lackluster domestic performance (its diplomatic foreign policy approach has fared better, but that may not matter for elections). The last year has cost it precious political capital, and Khan’s party did very well in a set of by-elections held in July and October. The state has tried to mire Khan and his party in legal cases, relying on a familiar playbook used against opposition politicians in Pakistan, albeit to limited effect, with the courts’ involvement.

Khan’s party still controls two of Pakistan’s four provinces, Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), and the incumbent federal government’s (extra-legal) efforts to try to wrest power from it in Punjab, the largest province, have been unsuccessful (thanks to the courts). The year is off to a dramatic start, with Khan’s party initiating the process to dissolve the Punjab and KP assemblies this month to pressure the federal government into early elections.

For politics-obsessed Pakistan, the biggest question remains who will win the next general election. Will former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif (brother of current Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif) return to Pakistan to run as the head of his party, the PML-N? Can Imran Khan win on the strength of his popular support, despite his confrontation with the military? Regardless of the outcome, we can say this much given the histories of the main contenders: The direction of the country is unlikely to change.

2. A precarious economic situation

Pakistan’s economy has been in crisis for months, predating the summer’s catastrophic floods. Inflation is backbreaking, the rupee’s value has fallen sharply, and its foreign reserves have now dropped to the precariously low level of $4.3 billion, enough to cover only one month’s worth of imports, raising the possibility of default.

An economic crisis comes around every few years in Pakistan, borne out of an economy that doesn’t produce enough and spends too much, and is thus reliant on external debt. Every successive crisis is worse as the debt bill gets larger and payments become due. This year, internal political instability and the flooding catastrophe have worsened it. There is a significant external element to the crisis as well, with rising global food and fuel prices in the wake of Russia’s war in Ukraine. The combination of all these factors has spelled perhaps the greatest economic challenge Pakistan has ever seen. Yet the government has been mired in politicking, and the release of a $1.1 billion loan tranche from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) remains stalled as Islamabad has pushed back on the IMF’s conditions. The government has now resorted to limiting imports and shutting down malls and wedding halls early, small measures that fail to adequately address the problem.

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Pakistan may end up avoiding default for the time being with IMF help and loans from friendly countries, especially Saudi Arabia and other Gulf nations. But those won’t address the clear underlying malaise of the economy – and the fact that something fundamentally will need to change, in terms of how much the economy produces versus how much it spends, to avoid default down the road. But none of Pakistan’s political parties seem to have the political will or ability to bring about such change.

Pakistan must reportedly pay back $73 billion by 2025; it won’t be able to do so without debt restructuring.

3. Flood recovery

A “ monsoon on steroids ” – directly linked to climate change – caused a summer of flooding in Pakistan so catastrophic that it has repeatedly been described as biblical. It left a third of the country under water – submerging entire villages – killed more than 1,700, destroyed homes, infrastructure, and vast cropland, and left millions displaced.

More than four months after the worst of the flooding, nearly 90,000 people are still displaced from their homes, and the floodwater is still standing in some areas. It would be enormously difficult for any country to recover from such a disaster and rebuild lost infrastructure, including roads and schools, let alone a government dealing with a cash crunch like Pakistan’s.

But the Pakistani government – in particular the foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, who has visited the United States twice since the summer, and the minister for climate change, Sherry Rehman – has done an admirable job bringing awareness of the flooding catastrophe to the world stage. A donors’ conference Sharif co-hosted with the United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres in Geneva this month raised pledges for more than $9 billion for flood recovery over the next three years (the money is mostly in the form of project loans). Pakistan has also played an important role in discussions about the devastating effects of climate change on developing nations, spearheading the effort to place loss and damage on the agenda at COP27 for the first time, and pushing for COP delegates in Egypt to agree to a loss and damage fund.

With billions of dollars in help promised, the government has passed one hurdle. But the road for recovery ahead will be tough: Displaced people are still sleeping under open skies in Sindh province. Implementing a sustainable recovery will require enormous capacity, resources, and transparency in a country already mired in other troubles.

4. Mounting insecurity

The Pakistani Taliban (or TTP), the terrorist group responsible for killing tens of thousands of Pakistanis from 2007 to 2014, have been emboldened – predictably so – by a Taliban-ruled Afghanistan, and once again pose a threat to Pakistan, albeit in a geographically limited region (for now). The group engaged in at least 150 attacks in Pakistan last year, mostly in the northwest. Because the TTP have sanctuary in Afghanistan, the Pakistani state increasingly finds itself out of options when it comes to dealing effectively with the group. The state’s negotiations with the TTP have failed repeatedly, as they are bound to, because the group is fundamentally opposed to the notion of the Pakistani state and constitution as it exists today. The Afghan Taliban have, unsurprisingly, also not proved to be of help in dealing with the TTP – and Pakistan’s relations with the Afghan Taliban have deteriorated significantly at the same time over other issues, including the border dividing the two countries.

At this point, Pakistan’s first preference will be to strike kinetically at TTP targets within its borders, but that will be limited by TTP movement across the border into Afghanistan. That movement is what leaves Pakistan with the difficult-to-resolve TTP issue and complicates things beyond the military operation it launched against the group in 2014. Still, the Pakistani Taliban at this point is not the biggest threat Pakistan faces, given the country’s major political and economic challenges – but left unchecked, it could morph into a significant crisis.

5. Civil-military relations

Pakistan has a new chief of army staff as of November 29 last year. General Asim Munir replaced General Qamar Javed Bajwa, who had held the all-powerful post for six years (due to a three-year extension). The appointment of the army chief was a subject of considerable political contention last year; a major part of the reason Khan was ousted from power was his falling out with the military on questions over the appointments of top army officials.

All eyes are now on how civil-military relations shape up under Munir. Under Bajwa, the military solidified its control over all manner of policy behind the scenes. Bajwa presided over a close “same-page” relationship with Khan; when that frayed, the PML-N was eager to take Khan’s place as the military’s ally and head of the civilian government. Bajwa left office saying the army would no longer be involved in political matters; few in Pakistan believe him. With politics set to dominate the agenda this year and an election imminent, Munir has a chance to show the country whether he will follow in his predecessor’s footsteps, or chart a new course for civil-military relations in Pakistan. Pakistan’s history indicates the former.

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The House passed a TikTok ban bill. But is the app really a national security threat?

Bobby Allyn

Bobby Allyn

essay on current issues

Devotees of TikTok gather at the Capitol in Washington, as the House passed a bill that would lead to a nationwide ban of the popular video app if its China-based owner doesn't sell. J. Scott Applewhite/AP hide caption

Devotees of TikTok gather at the Capitol in Washington, as the House passed a bill that would lead to a nationwide ban of the popular video app if its China-based owner doesn't sell.

The House of Representatives passed legislation on Wednesday giving TikTok two choices: find a buyer for the immensely popular video app, or face a nationwide ban in the U.S.

President Biden has indicated he would sign the law, but first it must clear the Senate, where it faces an uncertain future. Several other anti-TikTok efforts in the Senate have stalled, and it is too soon to tell whether the House's legislation will meet a different fate.

Why the House voted to ban TikTok and what could come next

Why the House voted to ban TikTok and what could come next

Whatever happens with this measure, it marks the first time a chamber of Congress has passed a bill that could shut down a social media platform, a move that civil liberties advocates say tramples on the free speech rights of millions of American users.

TikTok, which is owned by Beijing-based tech giant ByteDance, views the House legislation as an existential threat but not a novel attack, since the social media app has fended off numerous other attempts to put it out of business.

So what is different this time?

Here's a breakdown of what you need to know.

What exactly does the House bill do?

The bill gives ByteDance six months to find a buyer for TikTok.

If the company cannot sell the app in that time, it will become illegal for app stores and web-hosting companies to offer TikTok, as long as it remains under the control of a "foreign adversary."

That, in turn, would force Apple and Google to remove TikTok from app stores. It would also require internet service providers to make TikTok inaccessible on internet browsers in the U.S.

New DOJ Filing: TikTok's Owner Is 'A Mouthpiece' Of Chinese Communist Party

New DOJ Filing: TikTok's Owner Is 'A Mouthpiece' Of Chinese Communist Party

There is no way to make TikTok disappear for the 170 million Americans who have already downloaded it. But removing TikTok from app stores would mean that users would not be able to download any further software updates. And experts say without the ability to update regularly, the app would become slow, glitchy, buggy and rife with other problems to the point where using it at all would be just about impossible.

In other words, TikTok would die a slow, gradual death, rather than a swift demise.

What will the House bill mean for TikTok users?

In the short term, users will likely not notice any changes. The app will work as it always does for the millions of Americans who enjoy it.

And even if the Senate passes a companion bill, and Biden signs it into law, there is a six-month deadline to sell, which could be prolonged by court challenges.

Trump's TikTok Deal: What Just Happened And Why Does It Matter?

Trump's TikTok Deal: What Just Happened And Why Does It Matter?

In the event that TikTok does become illegal in the U.S., it would be tricky to access the app, but there will be workarounds.

People could turn to virtual private networks, or VPNs, to shield their location and get past restrictions. The technique is popular in places like Russia and China, where governments have prohibited many popular internet apps and services.

Who could buy TikTok if ByteDance is forced to sell?

Very few companies.

As one of the most popular social media apps in the world, ByteDance would sell TikTok at a hefty price. TikTok is likely worth tens of billions of dollars, an amount only the biggest tech companies — like Google, Meta, Microsoft or Amazon — could afford.

Federal judge blocks Montana's TikTok ban before it takes effect

Federal judge blocks Montana's TikTok ban before it takes effect

But the prospect of TikTok being acquired by a Big Tech firm raises instant antitrust concerns, since the Biden administration has taken a tough stance against tech industry mergers that serve to inflate the size and influence of already massive companies.

What's more, TikTok's sale would require the approval of China, which has said it would strongly oppose the forced sale of its first-ever global sensation of an app.

As the Senate considers a companion bill, it is possible that lawmakers in Washington would use the House bill as leverage to try to force TikTok to find a non-Chinese buyer, but talks over selling the app have been going on without a resolution for years.

What is the case that TikTok poses a national security risk?

Many in Washington, including lawmakers from both parties and top intelligence officials, fear the Chinese government could use TikTok to spy on Americans, push pro-China propaganda, or use the service to interfere in U.S. elections.

To date, lawmakers have not offered any evidence of the Chinese Communist Party using TikTok as a weapon against American interests.

Some critics of the bill say it is misguided if the goal is keeping Americans' data out of the hands of the Chinese government.

"The same kind of data that are collected by TikTok can easily be obtained by anyone who wants them by data aggregators and data brokers," said Jameel Jaffer , executive director of the Knight First Amendment Institute at Columbia University.

"The ban will be ineffective because China can access the same kind of information about Americans without TikTok," he said.

But have there been developments that have troubled officials in Washington?

ByteDance admitted in 2022 that former employees — but not government officials — had surveilled Americans on TikTok, including several journalists who were writing critical stories about the company.

And last year, a former ByteDance executive said in a court filing that the Chinese government has in the past been granted a "superuser" credential on TikTok, and that it was used to spy on Hong Kong protesters in 2018, something the company denies.

While neither incident shows that the Chinese government has used TikTok for espionage or disinformation campaigns on U.S. users, the developments have fueled a growing worry that Beijing could order that the app's algorithm be manipulated to shape what millions of American users see when they scroll.

What has TikTok said in response?

TikTok has long claimed it has never received an inquiry for Americans' data from Chinese authorities, saying it would deny any such request.

The company has also touted an initiative dubbed "Project Texas," saying that all U.S. user data has been transferred to servers controlled by Austin-based software company Oracle. TikTok also says Americans' data is now being monitored by third-party auditors in the U.S.

TikTok officials go on a public charm offensive amid a stalemate in Biden White House

TikTok officials go on a public charm offensive amid a stalemate in Biden White House

The plan, essentially a data firewall, was intended to ensure that Chinese officials cannot access Americans' personal information.

But under Chinese law, companies still have to turn over personal user data once it is sought by government officials.

This is why national security officials in Washington, who have been investigating TikTok's ties to Beijing for five years, have not approved the plan.

There is a consensus in the White House that any move TikTok takes short of complete divestiture from China is unacceptable.

If the House bill eventually becomes law, won't there be a legal challenge?

It is all but certain that TikTok will try to have a ban overturned in the courts.

Legal experts say shutting down a social media platform in the name of national security is something that can only be accomplished if the security threat is overwhelming.

Otherwise, it will likely be considered an infringement of the First Amendment rights of millions of Americans, if the government cannot show that the speech constraint is justified.

"Restricting Americans' right to access information or ideas on a media platform from abroad implicates the First Amendment. There's really no dispute about that," said Jaffer with the Knight First Amendment Institute

Previous attempts to shutter TikTok in the U.S. have not been successful.

Three separate federal district judges have blocked efforts to ban TikTok — two courts during the Trump administration, and one U.S. court more recently in Montana.

Judge Wendy Beetlestone found in 2020 that TikTok's national security threat is "phrased in the hypothetical."

In late 2023, judge Donald Molloy said that a crusade by officials in Montana to block TikTok within the state's borders had a "pervasive undertone of anti-Chinese sentiment."

Many constitutional scholars say banning TikTok requires clearing nearly insurmountable legal hurdles.

What evidence does the government have against TikTok?

If officials in Washington declassify national security information about TikTok, that could change the public's understanding of the app's threat.

Yet some lawmakers are already questioning the basis for targeting TikTok.

A handful of members of Congress who left a closed-door briefing about TikTok with top national security officials in the Biden administration a day before the House vote said officials did not back up the notion that TikTok is dangerous with any new information.

"Not a single thing we heard in today's classified briefing was specific to TikTok," Sara Jacobs, a Democratic from California told the Associated Press. "These are things that are happening on all social media platforms."

If the bill eventually becomes law and ends up in court, the government will have to demonstrate on what basis it is making a national security case against TikTok, Jaffer said.

"You can't restrict Americans' constitutional rights on the basis of secrets," he said.

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Competence or Experience The Missing Voice in Pediatric Decision-Making

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Photo ID 129550171© Katarzyna Bialasiewicz|Dreamstime.com

INTRODUCTION

One night in 2016, I fell sound asleep, then awoke to painkiller-induced, nightmarish hallucinations in the ICU. Despite being unable to identify myself or surroundings, I can clearly remember the discordant beeping of hospital monitors, acrid smell of saline wash, and taste of sickly sweet orange amoxicillin syrup. I was unaware that, the morning after I’d fallen asleep, I’d skied off an unmarked 30-foot cliff, breaking my legs, jaw, eye socket and nose, rupturing my right ear canal, and shattering nearly all of my teeth. Over the years that followed, I was fortunate enough to receive care from skilled, compassionate physicians. This not only allowed me to return to ski racing, but to dream of becoming a surgeon. Having grown older and thus more aware throughout my years as a pediatric patient, I’ve developed a nuanced understanding of what treatment made me feel heard.

In fact, I found the most radically varying aspect of my care to be the degree to which I was addressed as a conscious, capable individual versus an extension of my parents. This is unsurprising as the proper amount of authority lended to pediatric patients persists as highly disputed in bioethics. Over the course of this paper, several perspectives will be considered in order to evaluate the current position of the pediatric patient in medical decision-making. First, the ambiguity of maturity and reactions to pediatric autonomy will be considered through the Mature Minor Doctrine, especially important in the refusal of life-saving therapies. Next, the need for improved pain management, rooted in the misalignment of experienced and perceived pain in pediatric patients. Finally, this paper will prove, through the lenses of communitarianism and mosaic decision-making, the need for a more nuanced approach to pediatric care that structurally accounts for the patient’s voice without neglecting their place within a greater network. Therefore, there exists a great need for a more direct, balanced integration of pediatric patients’ as well as revisiting prevailing notions of where pediatric patients stand in relation to reason and experience.

To begin, Fleischman’s Pediatric Ethics opens with an exploration of what makes pediatric bioethics distinct. [1] Fleischman quickly runs into the most problematic of principles in the treatment of pediatric patients– autonomy. The ethical ambiguity of the degree of autonomy to offer pediatric patients and at what point in their lives is a central point of conflict. Many in favor of expanded authority point to the neurobiological similarity between young adults and late teenagers. [2] Furthermore, while parents are treated as natural decision-makers for their children, there are several cases of minors facing pressure to undergo medical treatment against their wishes. [3] , [4]  In response to these concerns, the Mature Minor Doctrine was created, a common law exception to the parental consent requirement. The doctrine allows a minor “to refuse or consent to medical treatment if [they possess] sufficient maturity to understand and appreciate the benefits and risks of the proposed medical treatment.” [5] The doctrine has spurred extensive and impassioned bioethical discourse, especially in relation to the refusal of life-saving therapies.

In “Health Care Decisionmaking by Children'', Ross draws a clear distinction between the notion of competence, often cited in psychological justifications of the Mature Minor Doctrine, and sound judgment. [6]  Her points against child liberationists can be simplified as follows: (a) children need time to develop virtues that preserve their life-time autonomy versus their present-day autonomy, (b) pediatric patients possess “limited world experience and so [their] decisions are not part of a well-conceived life plan,” [7] and (c) it serves parents and children alike for parents to make decisions in line with their view of a good life. I find all three points convincing, but each of them to be uniquely rooted in this same, critical lack of experience possessed by pediatric patients. I can attest to this. There were times where I suffered so desperately that I longed for relief by any means. I even told my mother that I was content only hearing out of one ear, willing to do anything to prevent another surgery. Now, I am fearful to imagine a world where, at my lowest, I had full autonomy.

Hence, the broad aversion to expanded pediatric autonomy is largely rooted in potential misuse, especially in the possibility of a unilateral, misinformed decision in favor of death via refusal of life-sustaining therapy. [8] , [9] Yet, one might argue, the desire for death has concrete rationale beyond lack of life experience— pain and suffering. As Foley describes, “The public's fear of pain and the media's portrayal that physician-assisted suicide and euthanasia are the only reliable options for pain relief… demand that health care delivery systems commit their efforts to improve pain relief at an institutional level.” [10]  Indeed, the issue of insufficient pain management is all too common in pediatrics. One study comparing postoperative pain assessments surveyed 307 patients, 207 of whom were verbal. Across the board, nurses’ pain estimations produced significantly lower pain scores than parents and children, and were consistently closer to estimated pain scores of independent observers. [11] In another study, a total of 356 nurses across 22 Japanese PICUs were surveyed, and despite possessing a median of 4 years of experience, a mere 32.6% expressed confidence in their ability to accurately assess pain. [12]   It is alarming and telling that even in verbal pediatric patients, pain is significantly underestimated by medical personnel, reflecting a real gap in pediatric patient-professional communication. I can, again, personally attest to this. In the children’s ward, I was offered only Tylenol for severe nerve pain in my legs that kept me awake most nights.

Relatedly, the spirited debate in response to the Mature Minor Doctrine is somewhat disproportionate. Despite the suggestion of various commentators that the law broadly recognizes the doctrine or that states are trending in its direction, only eight states have adopted a mature minor exception, and even these states condition this authority greatly. [13] With this in mind, a crucial issue is illuminated– an aversion to the pediatric patient voice altogether. As Flesichman writes, “Children should be informed about the nature of their condition, the proposed treatment plan, and the expected outcome… appropriate to their developmental levels.” [14] Hence, it is vital to curtail pediatric autonomy in complex and life-threatening choices, but it is worth seriously considering that the current landscape might excessively minimize or avoid pediatric patients’ expression, merely serving to inform them rather than account for their voice.

The experience that pediatric patients do possess, in the form of knowing their body, past medical experiences, and thus present pain-related needs, is systemically underrepresented. This is a pressing issue. Before considering expansion of the pediatric voice, though, it is first important to consider the manner in which the patient’s capacity is further complicated by their role within a larger community. It is worthwhile explicitly mentioning communitarianism, a prevailing school of thought in modern bioethics, defined by Callahan as “a way of… assum[ing] that human beings are social animals… and whose lives are lived out within deeply penetrating social, political, and cultural institutions and practices.” [15] Pediatric patients present a uniquely communitarian case as the perspectives of parents and the needs of patients’ families are vital considerations in offering care. The pediatric patient’s role in a larger family unit and community should be kept in focus so long as the well-being of the patient isn’t compromised, such as in potentially life-threatening religious preferences, as the obligation of the physician is, first and foremost, to the patient.

Nonetheless, the status quo demands a more thoughtful and structural accounting of the pediatric voice to ensure that they feel heard and empowered in complex decision-making and regular care alike. Hence, it is necessary to develop and evaluate clinical models and frameworks that directly account for the pediatric voice, that integrate pediatric patients’ input as continuous, regular, and required elements of treatment. For instance, there may be promise in a model similar to that of mosaic decision-making, a means of restoring the capacity of reemergent patients following brain injury. Rather than enabling complete surrogate authority, the model would enable a pediatric patient’s emergent voice to be accommodated but to not “speak beyond its range and capabilities” via group deliberation between surrogate and patient, a medical professional, and a patient advocate. [16] Opting for such a model would enable the active involvement of pediatric input without excessively empowering the patient in a manner that neglects their communitarian role and lack of experience.

In the heated response to the largely unenforced mature minor doctrine, one finds the invaluable and lacking factor of experience in pediatric patients, especially in decisions to withdraw or refuse life-sustaining medical treatments. In this same response, however, one finds a sharp aversion to the pediatric voice, reflected in pervasive under-medication. Deficits in pain management must be addressed to more effectively treat discomfort, an effort bolstered by a more structural accounting of the pediatric voice and thus pain-related needs. Finally, frameworks that regularly involve the pediatric patient perspective while valuing their communitarian importance and lacking experience, such as the mosaic model, hold real promise moving forward.

[1] Fleischman, Alan. Pediatric Ethics: Protecting the Interests of Children. (Oxford: Oxford University Press, September, 2016), p. 1-16.

[2] Coleman, Doriane & Rosoff, Philip. “The Legal Authority of Mature Minors to Consent to General Medical Treatment.” (Itasca: American Journal of Pediatrics, March  2013), p. 1.

[3] Hawkins, Susan. “Protecting the Rights and Interests of Competent Minors in Litigated Medical Treatment Disputes.” (New York: Fordham Law Review, March 1996), p. 1.

[4] Derish, Melinda & Heuvel, Kathleen. “Mature Minors Should Have the Right to Refuse Life-Sustaining Medical Treatment.” (Boston: The

Journal of Law, Medicine & Ethics, January 2021), p. 1-14.

[5] Derish, Melinda & Heuvel, Kathleen. “Mature Minors Should Have the Right to Refuse Life-Sustaining Medical Treatment.” p. 7.

[6] Ross, Lainie. “Health Care Decisionmaking by Children. Is It in Their Best Interest?” (Garrison: The Hastings Center Report, November-December 1997), p. 1-5.

[7] Ross. “Health Care Decisionmaking by Children''. p. 5.

[8] Penkower, Jessica. “The Potential Right of Chronically Ill Adolescents to Refuse Life-Saving Medical Treatment - Fatal Misuse of the Mature Minor Doctrine.” (Chicago: DePaul Law Review, 1996), p. 1-8.

[9] Burk, Josh. “Mature Minors, Medical Choice, and the Constitutional Right to Martyrdom.” (Charlottesville: Virginia Law Review, September 2016), p. 1-15.

[10] Foley, Kathleen. “Pain Relief Into Practice: Rhetoric Without Reform.” (Alexandria: Journal of Clinical Oncology, 1995), p. 1-3

[11] Hla et. al. “Perception of Pediatric Pain: A Comparison of Postoperative Pain Assessments Between Child, Parent, Nurse, and Independent Observer.” (Melbourne: Pediatric Anesthesia. 2014) p. 1-5.

[12] Tsuboi et. al. “Nurses' perception of pediatric pain and pain assessment in the Japanese PICU.” (Tokyo: Pediatrics International, February 2023), p. 1-3, 10-12.

[13] Coleman, Doriane & Rosoff, Philip. “The Legal Authority of Mature Minors”. p. 1-3.

[14] Fleischman, Alan. Pediatric Ethics . p. 115.

[15] Callahan, Daniel. “Principlism and communitarianism.” (Garrison: The Hastings Center  Report, October 2003), p. 2.

[16] Fins, Joseph. “Mosaic Decisionmaking and Reemergent Agency after Severe Brain  Injury”. (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, September 2017), p. 6.

Jonathan Tenenbaum

Third place winner of Voices in Bioethics' 2023 persuasive essay contest. 

Disclaimer: These essays are submissions for the 2023 essay contest and have not undergone peer review or editing.

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The Philippines economy in 2024: Stronger for longer?

The Philippines ended 2023 on a high note, being the fastest growing economy across Southeast Asia with a growth rate of 5.6 percent—just shy of the government's target of 6.0 to 7.0 percent. 1 “National accounts,” Philippine Statistics Authority, January 31, 2024; "Philippine economic updates,” Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, November 16, 2023. Should projections hold, the Philippines is expected to, once again, show significant growth in 2024, demonstrating its resilience despite various global economic pressures (Exhibit 1). 2 “Economic forecast 2024,” International Monetary Fund, November 1, 2023; McKinsey analysis.

The growth in the Philippine economy in 2023 was driven by a resumption in commercial activities, public infrastructure spending, and growth in digital financial services. Most sectors grew, with transportation and storage (13 percent), construction (9 percent), and financial services (9 percent), performing the best (Exhibit 2). 3 “National accounts,” Philippine Statistics Authority, January 31, 2024. While the country's trade deficit narrowed in 2023, it remains elevated at $52 billion due to slowing global demand and geopolitical uncertainties. 4 “Highlights of the Philippine export and import statistics,” Philippine Statistics Authority, January 28, 2024. Looking ahead to 2024, the current economic forecast for the Philippines projects a GDP growth of between 5 and 6 percent.

Inflation rates are expected to temper between 3.2 and 3.6 percent in 2024 after ending 2023 at 6.0 percent, above the 2.0 to 4.0 percent target range set by the government. 5 “Nomura downgrades Philippine 2024 growth forecast,” Nomura, September 11, 2023; “IMF raises Philippine growth rate forecast,” International Monetary Fund, July 16, 2023.

For the purposes of this article, most of the statistics used for our analysis have come from a common thread of sources. These include the Central Bank of the Philippines (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas); the Department of Energy Philippines; the IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP); and the Philippines Statistics Authority.

The state of the Philippine economy across seven major sectors and themes

In the article, we explore the 2024 outlook for seven key sectors and themes, what may affect each of them in the coming year, and what could potentially unlock continued growth.

Financial services

The recovery of the financial services sector appears on track as year-on-year growth rates stabilize. 6 Philippines Statistics Authority, November 2023; McKinsey in partnership with Oxford Economics, November 2023. In 2024, this sector will likely continue to grow, though at a slower pace of about 5 percent.

Financial inclusion and digitalization are contributing to growth in this sector in 2024, even if new challenges emerge. Various factors are expected to impact this sector:

  • Inclusive finance: Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas continues to invest in financial inclusion initiatives. For example, basic deposit accounts (BDAs) reached $22 million in 2023 and banking penetration improved, with the proportion of adults with formal bank accounts increasing from 29 percent in 2019 to 56 percent in 2021. 7 “Financial inclusion dashboard: First quarter 2023,” Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, February 6, 2024.
  • Digital adoption: Digital channels are expected to continue to grow, with data showing that 60 percent of adults who have a mobile phone and internet access have done a digital financial transaction. 8 “Financial inclusion dashboard: First quarter 2023,” Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, February 6, 2024. Businesses in this sector, however, will need to remain vigilant in navigating cybersecurity and fraud risks.
  • Unsecured lending growth: Growth in unsecured lending is expected to continue, but at a slower pace than the past two to three years. For example, unsecured retail lending for the banking system alone grew by 27 percent annually from 2020 to 2022. 9 “Loan accounts: As of first quarter 2023,” Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, February 6, 2024; "Global banking pools,” McKinsey, November 2023. Businesses in this field are, however, expected to recalibrate their risk profiling models as segments with high nonperforming loans emerge.
  • High interest rates: Key interest rates are expected to decline in the second half of 2024, creating more accommodating borrowing conditions that could boost wholesale and corporate loans.

Supportive frameworks have a pivotal role to play in unlocking growth in this sector to meet the ever-increasing demand from the financially underserved. For example, financial literacy programs and easier-to-access accounts—such as BDAs—are some measures that can help widen market access to financial services. Continued efforts are being made to build an open finance framework that could serve the needs of the unbanked population, as well as a unified credit scoring mechanism to increase the ability of historically under-financed segments, such as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), to access formal credit. 10 “BSP launches credit scoring model,” Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, April 26, 2023.

Energy and Power

The outlook for the energy sector seems positive, with the potential to grow by 7 percent in 2024 as the country focuses on renewable energy generation. 11 McKinsey analysis based on input from industry experts. Currently, stakeholders are focused on increasing energy security, particularly on importing liquefied natural gas (LNG) to meet power plants’ requirements as production in one of the country’s main sources of natural gas, the Malampaya gas field, declines. 12 Myrna M. Velasco, “Malampaya gas field prod’n declines steeply in 2021,” Manila Bulletin , July 9, 2022. High global inflation and the fact that the Philippines is a net fuel importer are impacting electricity prices and the build-out of planned renewable energy projects. Recent regulatory moves to remove foreign ownership limits on exploration, development, and utilization of renewable energy resources could possibly accelerate growth in the country’s energy and power sector. 13 “RA 11659,” Department of Energy Philippines, June 8, 2023.

Gas, renewables, and transmission are potential growth drivers for the sector. Upgrading power grids so that they become more flexible and better able to cope with the intermittent electricity supply that comes with renewables will be critical as the sector pivots toward renewable energy. A recent coal moratorium may position natural gas as a transition fuel—this could stimulate exploration and production investments for new, indigenous natural gas fields, gas pipeline infrastructure, and LNG import terminal projects. 14 Philippine energy plan 2020–2040, Department of Energy Philippines, June 10, 2022; Power development plan 2020–2040 , Department of Energy Philippines, 2021. The increasing momentum of green energy auctions could facilitate the development of renewables at scale, as the country targets 35 percent share of renewables by 2030. 15 Power development plan 2020–2040 , 2022.

Growth in the healthcare industry may slow to 2.8 percent in 2024, while pharmaceuticals manufacturing is expected to rebound with 5.2 percent growth in 2024. 16 McKinsey analysis in partnership with Oxford Economics.

Healthcare demand could grow, although the quality of care may be strained as the health worker shortage is projected to increase over the next five years. 17 McKinsey analysis. The supply-and-demand gap in nursing alone is forecast to reach a shortage of approximately 90,000 nurses by 2028. 18 McKinsey analysis. Another compounding factor straining healthcare is the higher than anticipated benefit utilization and rising healthcare costs, which, while helping to meet people's healthcare budgets, may continue to drive down profitability for health insurers.

Meanwhile, pharmaceutical companies are feeling varying effects of people becoming increasingly health conscious. Consumers are using more over the counter (OTC) medication and placing more beneficial value on organic health products, such as vitamins and supplements made from natural ingredients, which could impact demand for prescription drugs. 19 “Consumer health in the Philippines 2023,” Euromonitor, October 2023.

Businesses operating in this field may end up benefiting from universal healthcare policies. If initiatives are implemented that integrate healthcare systems, rationalize copayments, attract and retain talent, and incentivize investments, they could potentially help to strengthen healthcare provision and quality.

Businesses may also need to navigate an increasingly complex landscape of diverse health needs, digitization, and price controls. Digital and data transformations are being seen to facilitate improvements in healthcare delivery and access, with leading digital health apps getting more than one million downloads. 20 Google Play Store, September 27, 2023. Digitization may create an opportunity to develop healthcare ecosystems that unify touchpoints along the patient journey and provide offline-to-online care, as well as potentially realizing cost efficiencies.

Consumer and retail

Growth in the retail and wholesale trade and consumer goods sectors is projected to remain stable in 2024, at 4 percent and 5 percent, respectively.

Inflation, however, continues to put consumers under pressure. While inflation rates may fall—predicted to reach 4 percent in 2024—commodity prices may still remain elevated in the near term, a top concern for Filipinos. 21 “IMF raises Philippine growth forecast,” July 26, 2023; “Nomura downgrades Philippines 2024 growth forecast,” September 11, 2023. In response to challenging economic conditions, 92 percent of consumers have changed their shopping behaviors, and approximately 50 percent indicate that they are switching brands or retail providers in seek of promotions and better prices. 22 “Philippines consumer pulse survey, 2023,” McKinsey, November 2023.

Online shopping has become entrenched in Filipino consumers, as they find that they get access to a wider range of products, can compare prices more easily, and can shop with more convenience. For example, a McKinsey Philippines consumer sentiment survey in 2023 found that 80 percent of respondents, on average, use online and omnichannel to purchase footwear, toys, baby supplies, apparel, and accessories. To capture the opportunity that this shift in Filipino consumer preferences brings and to unlock growth in this sector, retail organizations could turn to omnichannel strategies to seamlessly integrate online and offline channels. Businesses may need to explore investments that increase resilience across the supply chain, alongside researching and developing new products that serve emerging consumer preferences, such as that for natural ingredients and sustainable sources.

Manufacturing

Manufacturing is a key contributor to the Philippine economy, contributing approximately 19 percent of GDP in 2022, employing about 7 percent of the country’s labor force, and growing in line with GDP at approximately 6 percent between 2023 and 2024. 23 McKinsey analysis based on input from industry experts.

Some changes could be seen in 2024 that might affect the sector moving forward. The focus toward building resilient supply chains and increasing self-sufficiency is growing. The Philippines also is likely to benefit from increasing regional trade, as well as the emerging trend of nearshoring or onshoring as countries seek to make their supply chains more resilient. With semiconductors driving approximately 45 percent of Philippine exports, the transfer of knowledge and technology, as well as the development of STEM capabilities, could help attract investments into the sector and increase the relevance of the country as a manufacturing hub. 24 McKinsey analysis based on input from industry experts.

To secure growth, public and private sector support could bolster investments in R&D and upskill the labor force. In addition, strategies to attract investment may be integral to the further development of supply chain infrastructure and manufacturing bases. Government programs to enable digital transformation and R&D, along with a strategic approach to upskilling the labor force, could help boost industry innovation in line with Industry 4.0 demand. 25 Industry 4.0 is also referred to as the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Priority products to which manufacturing industries could pivot include more complex, higher value chain electronic components in the semiconductor segment; generic OTC drugs and nature-based pharmaceuticals in the pharmaceutical sector; and, for green industries, products such as EVs, batteries, solar panels, and biomass production.

Information technology business process outsourcing

The information technology business process outsourcing (IT-BPO) sector is on track to reach its long-term targets, with $38 billion in forecast revenues in 2024. 26 Khriscielle Yalao, “WHF flexibility key to achieving growth targets—IBPAP,” Manila Bulletin , January 23, 2024. Emerging innovations in service delivery and work models are being observed, which could drive further growth in the sector.

The industry continues to outperform headcount and revenue targets, shaping its position as a country leader for employment and services. 27 McKinsey analysis based in input from industry experts. Demand from global companies for offshoring is expected to increase, due to cost containment strategies and preference for Philippine IT-BPO providers. New work setups continue to emerge, ranging from remote-first to office-first, which could translate to potential net benefits. These include a 10 to 30 percent increase in employee retention; a three- to four-hour reduction in commute times; an increase in enabled talent of 350,000; and a potential reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of 1.4 to 1.5 million tons of CO 2 per year. 28 McKinsey analysis based in input from industry experts. It is becoming increasingly more important that the IT-BPO sector adapts to new technologies as businesses begin to harness automation and generative AI (gen AI) to unlock productivity.

Talent and technology are clear areas where growth in this sector can be unlocked. The growing complexity of offshoring requirements necessitates building a proper talent hub to help bridge employee gaps and better match local talent to employers’ needs. Businesses in the industry could explore developing facilities and digital infrastructure to enable industry expansion outside the metros, especially in future “digital cities” nationwide. Introducing new service areas could capture latent demand from existing clients with evolving needs as well as unserved clients. BPO centers could explore the potential of offering higher-value services by cultivating technology-focused capabilities, such as using gen AI to unlock revenue, deliver sales excellence, and reduce general administrative costs.

Sustainability

The Philippines is considered to be the fourth most vulnerable country to climate change in the world as, due to its geographic location, the country has a higher risk of exposure to natural disasters, such as rising sea levels. 29 “The Philippines has been ranked the fourth most vulnerable country to climate change,” Global Climate Risk Index, January 2021. Approximately $3.2 billion, on average, in economic loss could occur annually because of natural disasters over the next five decades, translating to up to 7 to 8 percent of the country’s nominal GDP. 30 “The Philippines has been ranked the fourth most vulnerable country to climate change,” Global Climate Risk Index, January 2021.

The Philippines could capitalize on five green growth opportunities to operate in global value chains and catalyze growth for the nation:

  • Renewable energy: The country could aim to generate 50 percent of its energy from renewables by 2040, building on its high renewable energy potential and the declining cost of producing renewable energy.
  • Solar photovoltaic (PV) manufacturing: More than a twofold increase in annual output from 2023 to 2030 could be achieved, enabled by lower production costs.
  • Battery production: The Philippines could aim for a $1.5 billion domestic market by 2030, capitalizing on its vast nickel reserves (the second largest globally). 31 “MineSpans,” McKinsey, November 2023.
  • Electric mobility: Electric vehicles could account for 15 percent of the country’s vehicle sales by 2030 (from less than 1 percent currently), driven by incentives, local distribution, and charging infrastructure. 32 McKinsey analysis based on input from industry experts.
  • Nature-based solutions: The country’s largely untapped total abatement potential could reach up to 200 to 300 metric tons of CO 2 , enabled by its biodiversity and strong demand.

The Philippine economy: Three scenarios for growth

Having grown faster than other economies in Southeast Asia in 2023 to end the year with 5.6 percent growth, the Philippines can expect a similarly healthy growth outlook for 2024. Based on our analysis, there are three potential scenarios for the country’s growth. 33 McKinsey analysis in partnership with Oxford Economics.

Slower growth: The first scenario projects GDP growth of 4.8 percent if there are challenging conditions—such as declining trade and accelerated inflation—which could keep key policy rates high at about 6.5 percent and dampen private consumption, leading to slower long-term growth.

Soft landing: The second scenario projects GDP growth of 5.2 percent if inflation moderates and global conditions turn out to be largely favorable due to a stable investment environment and regional trade demand.

Accelerated growth: In the third scenario, GDP growth is projected to reach 6.1 percent if inflation slows and public policies accommodate aspects such as loosening key policy rates and offering incentive programs to boost productivity.

Focusing on factors that could unlock growth in its seven critical sectors and themes, while adapting to the macro-economic scenario that plays out, would allow the Philippines to materialize its growth potential in 2024 and take steps towards achieving longer-term, sustainable economic growth.

Jon Canto is a partner in McKinsey’s Manila office, where Frauke Renz is an associate partner, and Vicah Villanueva is a consultant.

The authors wish to thank Charlene Chua, Charlie del Rosario, Ryan delos Reyes, Debadrita Dhara, Evelyn C. Fong, Krzysztof Kwiatkowski, Frances Lee, Aaron Ong, and Liane Tan for their contributions to this article.

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Journal of the American Mathematical Society

Published by the American Mathematical Society, the Journal of the American Mathematical Society (JAMS) is devoted to research articles of the highest quality in all areas of mathematics.

ISSN 1088-6834 (online) ISSN 0894-0347 (print)

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Contents of Volume 37, Number 2 HTML articles powered by AMS MathViewer View front and back matter from the print issue

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The Challenges of Teaching Constitutional Law Today

More from our inbox:, condemn trump’s mockery of biden’s stutter, biden enthusiasts, medications to combat alcoholism, reading the greats.

A hand pulls a thick book of from a line of similar books on a shelf. The book is labeled “Balc” and “United States Supreme Court Reports. Lawyers Edition.”

To the Editor:

Re “ How to Teach Students About a Politicized Supreme Court ,” by Jesse Wegman (Opinion, March 3):

Mr. Wegman asserts that teaching constitutional law has relied on the belief that the Supreme Court is a “legitimate institution of governance” and its justices, “whatever their political backgrounds, care about getting the law right.”

Perhaps it is because I am a political scientist teaching constitutional law and politics to undergraduates rather than a legal scholar teaching it to aspiring lawyers, but this premise suffers from a rosy reading of the past.

From the very outset of the American republic, the Supreme Court has engaged in political maneuvering framed in legal language. Through the Civil War and the New Deal and the social tumult of the 1960s, the justices offered legal reasoning embodying political ideology and swollen with political ramifications.

We can decry the potentially suspect motivations behind Bush v. Gore or the shoddy treatment of historical evidence in the Bruen gun rights case, and we can lament the polarization of the confirmation process or the partisan voting patterns of the current justices. But the idea that we are shocked — shocked! — to find politics going on here is simply not credible.

Justin Crowe Williamstown, Mass. The writer, a professor of political science at Williams College, is the author of “Building the Judiciary: Law, Courts and the Politics of Institutional Development.”

I came of age as a young law student in the mid-1980s, and of late I often think of my venerable law professor at Columbia Law School, the late Louis Henkin . He taught us to revere the Supreme Court, and we did so, reading the legions of seminal decisions based primarily on well-reasoned constitutional analysis respecting stare decisis.

I can only imagine what he would be thinking now. How unfortunate for rising lawyers.

Carole R. Bernstein Westport, Conn.

As a liberal and a constitutional law professor at Georgia State University, I can understand the visceral reaction that some law professors have had to recent Supreme Court jurisprudence.

As a citizen who lives under the court’s decisions, I share many left-leaning law academics’ concerns about the future of racial justice, reproductive choice, the rights of sexual minorities, the administrative state and congressional power.

However, as a scholar of American political development, studying how law and politics interact over time, I have found that the court’s rulings do not affect my syllabus or pedagogy.

I convey to students that the Supreme Court has typically been an institution that reflects the majority’s will. I also emphasize that constitutional law is often in crisis — it was in the early 1800s, the 1830s, the 1860s and the 1930s. I acknowledge that precedents come and go.

Even more important, I explore how American constitutionalism develops in places beyond the Supreme Court — presidential politics, major legislative efforts, social movements, political party formation, public opinion, etc.

For all these reasons, I teach constitutional law as the history of doctrine through time, with careful attention paid to the social, political and economic influences on constitutionalism. And I sleep well at night.

Anthony Michael Kreis Atlanta

Re “ Trump Blasts Biden’s Speech and Mocks Stutter ” (news article, March 11):

I am a longtime stutterer. Donald Trump’s mockery of President Biden’s stutter must be quickly and strongly condemned by everyone across the political spectrum. It is unseemly and bullying, venal and unacceptable.

We can differ on the issues, even forcefully, but going after a personal disability that affects an estimated nearly three million Americans — even Republicans! — is cruel and heartless, and must be forcefully denounced.

Jerry Slaff Rockville, Md.

Re “ Gladly Going Against Grain to Love Biden ” (front page, March 5):

I noted with interest your article about the people who feel isolated because they are still positive about President Biden and about re-electing him.

I must report that I have had the opposite experience: In my social circle of well-informed and civically engaged friends, there is widespread enthusiasm for him. We’re aware that he’s the most pro-labor president since F.D.R. and that much historic legislation has become law during his administration.

Glenna Matthews Laguna Beach, Calif.

Re “ Alcohol-Related Deaths Surge to Nearly 500 a Day, C.D.C. Says ” (news article, nytimes.com, Feb. 29):

As a physician treating many people with addiction, I appreciate the recent coverage of the increased rates of alcohol-related deaths. The reporters cite several strategies to reduce harms from alcohol. One unmentioned and highly effective approach is to educate people on medications that can reduce alcohol cravings, and the amount people drink.

Naltrexone and Acamprosate are two F.D.A.-approved medications for alcohol use disorder that can help people who binge drink or drink heavily on a regular basis. Neither drug makes someone physically ill if they consume alcohol while taking it, unlike the medication that was most commonly prescribed in previous decades:disulfiram (also known as Antabuse).

Unfortunately, many people believe that they can quit drinking using willpower alone. While this approach may work for some, the vast majority of people with an alcohol use disorder will benefit from one of these two medications.

I encourage every person who is concerned about their own drinking to talk with their doctor about receiving medical treatment to help them cut back or quit. People who are worried about their loved one should talk with them about how they may want to speak with their doctor about this type of care.

Eileen Barrett Albuquerque

Re “ We Need to Read the Forgotten Geniuses, Not Rescue Them ,” by Apoorva Tadepalli (Opinion guest essay, nytimes.com, Feb. 28):

When I retired from teaching English and moved to Charlottesville, Va., I missed the classroom and taught three courses at what was then the Jefferson Institute for Lifelong Learning.

The classes on poetry and James Joyce’s “Dubliners” were well attended, but the surprise came when I offered Robert Fagles’s translation of Homer’s “Iliad.” I had 32 people sign up for it, and when the six weeks of class ended, they demanded that I go on to teach the “Odyssey.”

I saw no reason for them to pay to hear the same historical background on Homer and ancient Greece, so I booked a meeting room at the central library and we began a literary odyssey of our own that has continued for 15 years, reading the world’s great literature, from classical authors to Dante, “Beowulf,” “Canterbury Tales,” the great Russians and beyond.

I don’t teach it. We teach ourselves, spending weeks on a book, each person bringing to the group the thoughts we have while reading the canon. The pleasure we get from reading “the greats” has enriched our lives and given us a strong bond. I no longer teach. I share.

Carolyn McGrath Charlottesville, Va.

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  29. AMS :: J. Amer. Math. Soc. -- Volume 37, Number 2

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