common topics for persuasive essays

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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.

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?

• 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?

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 .

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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227 Amazing College Persuasive Essay Topics [Free Ideas]

Ever wondered what a persuasive essay is? Are you struggling to differentiate it from an argumentative one? Do you think it’s impossible to find original persuasive speech topics for college students?

If you have answered yes to any question, you’ve come to the right place. Our team can help you!

A persuasive essay is a piece of academic writing that convinces readers to accept the author’s position and agree with their ideas. Through clear arguments and examples, the writer demonstrates the legitimacy of their point of view.

Below, we have provided a list of the most interesting and unique college persuasive essay topics. So, don’t waste any more of your time searching for the right title. Use our ideas and create an outstanding persuasive essay!

• 👉 How to Choose?
• ✨ Best Speech Topics
• 🎓 Ideas on Education
• 📜 Topics on History
• ⚖ Ideas on Politics
• 👍 Topics on Sociology
• 💰 Ideas on Economics
• 🚌 Transportation
• 🌿 Environment
• ⚙ Technology
• 🌍 Traveling
• ✌ Lifestyle
• 🏫 Teenagers
• 📚 Literature
• 🖐 25 More Topics

👉 How to Choose a Persuasive Essay Topic for College?

The main secret of the successful persuasive essay is a compelling topic. Therefore, when choosing the right persuasive topic, follow these few simple pieces of advice:

• Re-read the assignment . The task that you’ve received from your tutor can be of great assistance. You just have to read it correctly. Unfortunately, college students tend to underestimate the power of the question. Don’t make this mistake. Read your assignment carefully because it can provide clues on the topic to look for.
• Brainstorm ideas. Before writing any paper, college students have to research. It will ensure the argumentative part of the persuasive essay. To understand what to examine, have an ideation session, and consider a variety of ideas. Picking the most appropriate one, you’ll see where to start your research. Try to find as many topics as you can. Free college essays collection is a good place to check out as a part of your session. You’ll be able to see what topics are already covered, and what you can expand upon. It will make your investigation and writing processes easier!
• Don’t pick an idea if it’s too broad . You may think that in this case, you’ll have plenty of things to argue about. Well, maybe a bit too many. In your essay, you should cover an entire topic so that it sounds convincing. When the idea is too broad, you can’t fit every argument in one paper. So, specify your title. For instance, you want to persuade your readers to stay healthy. Then don’t investigate all the aspects of maintaining health. Focus on one specific issue. For example, explore the positive influence of sport on the general health condition of a human being.
• Ensure that you have credible sources. In some colleges, even the smallest essays may require a list of references. Thus, make sure you have materials to research and later list as your sources. Remember: Good persuasive paper topics for college have to offer a wide variety of sources to investigate. So, if you are not confident in your materials, better change the title. It will prevent you from a lack of evidence to support your arguments.
• Choose a topic of personal interest. We’re not compelling you to write something that you enjoy when it contradicts the assignment. But try to select an idea that doesn’t bore you from reading it out loud. It is always more pleasurable to write on a topic you are passionate about. Don’t miss your chance to make turn your essay writing process into an exciting activity.
• Select something you have an opinion about, but open to debate. Your tutors can disagree with your position. Nevertheless, it is not a reason to give up. It’s the right time to show your critical thinking skills. State your position clearly and provide convincing arguments to support it. Show your readers that you can change your position if you see some compelling data. It can give you some extra credit. The best persuasion topics for college create an environment for debates and discussions.
• Be unique! In colleges, the amount of papers done daily is enormous. Don’t make your professors read about the importance of waste sorting, for example, yet again. The topic of environmental protection is undoubtedly extremely significant. However: It is way too overused. The professors are tired of reading essays on the same issues again and again. Surprise them and stand out.

✨ 12 Best Persuasive Speech Topics for College Students

• How important is mental health?
• Is online school more effective?
• Are GMO products good?
• Is social media dangerous?
• What’s wrong with the education system?
• Does recycling work?
• Is veganism bad for the environment?
• Should foreign policy be feminist?
• Is marriage an obsolete institution?
• Can protests and demonstrations bring change?
• Can alternative medicine actually work?
• Is modern advertising unethical?

🔑 Essential College Persuasive Essay Topics

We bet, every college student at least once had an assignment to write a persuasive essay. Haven’t you had yet? The best is yet to come! Thus, you have to be prepared to face all the challenges of a persuasive essay composing.

Searching for interesting persuasive essay topics is a complicated issue. However, you don’t have to worry about it. Our team of experts gathered the most popular and effective ideas in one place.

Don’t stress out about the topic:

Take a look at our list of persuasive essay topics for college students. We divided our ideas into sections so that you can find the most appropriate one. So, you can easily navigate throughout our page for a more effective search.

🎓 College Persuasive Essay Ideas on Education

• An educational system should encourage creativity .
• Student diversity should be present in a school classroom .
• Why should college students care about their mental and physical health?
• Why should we stop girls’ discrimination in the modern educational system?
• Why should computer science programs be taught in colleges and universities?
• Why should parents take part in their children’s education?

• Why reading performance of students with learning disabilities should be improved?
• Studying abroad results in better education.
• Homework does not help in the learning process.
• The costs of higher education should be reduced.
• A grade does not show a student’s knowledge.
• The Internet overuse blocks the mental development of a modern teenager.
• Education should not depend on technologies.
• Essay writing develops the critical thinking skills of students.
• Foreign language learning should be mandatory in school . Conduct research on how foreign languages influence children and teenagers. What are the positive sides of such education? Then, persuade your readers that foreign languages are essential in the school core curriculum.
• Art classes should be a priority in middle school . Elaborate on the importance of the development of the sense of art for children and teenagers. Why should art classes be higher in the list of priorities than technical or science courses? How can the right perception of art help pupils in future life?
• The core curriculum of the high school should not be too broad. Why do we have to narrow down our focus in high school? Explain how teenagers will benefit from studying particular subjects instead of getting general knowledge. Convince your readers about the importance of focusing on a specific field in high school.
• A gap year before entering the university is beneficial. Give persuading evidence why students should take a gap year. What are the advantages? Make your readers debate whether a gap year is worth considering. Finally, convince them that it is worth it.
• Mobile phones should not be allowed in school. State your position regarding the usage of smartphones during the learning process. What adverse ramifications do the mobile phones have on the academic results of pupils? Persuade your readers to prohibit phone usage in school.
• Traditional education is more effective than remote learning . How the benefits of the conventional way of learning outweigh the advantages of remote education? Compare the aspects of remote learning for different age groups: 1st grade age, 6th grade age, and a college student.

📜 College Persuasive Essay Topics on History

• The American Revolution was a turning point in USA history.
• The year 1763 is crucial in US history.
• The media played a crucial role in promoting the Vietnam War .
• We shouldn’t underestimate the significance of African-American social reform.
• Technological advancement of the 17th century was a new era in world history.
• Without Enlightenment and Romantic Age , the European culture wouldn’t be so progressive nowadays.

• People should’ve stopped the propaganda of Adolf Hitler and Jim Jones before the intensive development.
• The historical influence of Abraham Lincoln should become a role model for modern political figures.
• Americans should have abolished slavery in the United States way earlier.
• The four voyages by Christopher Columbus are crucial in the progress of world history.
• Cultural exchanges in the medieval period significantly impacted the civilizations.
• Protestant reformation was the most influential Christian movement.
• Japanese women in the Middle Ages should have been more powerful.
• The world war should never happen again.
• The age of exploration . Who are the key figures? How did they impact world history formation? Convince your readers of the importance of the age of exploration.
• The Mayan calendar system did not predict the end of the world . Investigate the Mayan calendar system. What is your explanation of the fact that the calendar system ended in the year 2012? Persuade your readers that the suggestions about the end of the world in 2012 are false.
• Racial discrimination in America violated human rights to a great extend . Give a brief overview of racial discrimination in the USA. Persuade the readers to perceive racial discrimination as an act of human rights violation.
• Apollo 11 – the first spaceflight that landed people on the Moon . Discuss the importance of this event. Convince your readers about the significance of the Moon exploration.
• History studying should become the top priority for students. The knowledge of history may help to prevent mistakes from the past. So, persuade your readers to explore historical events.
• Holocaust should not be justified and denied . What are the horrible consequences of holocaust tragedy? Analyze an opinion regarding the denial of the holocaust. Persuade the readers not to support this idea.

⚖ College Persuasive Essay Ideas on Politics

• Civil rights of black Americans should not be limited.
• Migration should not be restricted because it has certain benefits to modern countries .
• In the battle of socialism vs. democracy , the second one should win.

• Nationalism in international relations should be accepted.
• E-government should become transparent and accountable for the citizens .
• Celebrities should stay aside from political activities.
• The laws for each state of America should become common.
• A voting system should be transparent.
• Ordinary people should not be allowed to own guns.
• The federal tax return process should become more manageable.
• Individual rights versus the common good . Express your position regarding the issue. What do you support: individual rights or common good? Persuade the readers to follow your ideas.
• Gay marriage should be allowed . If you don’t agree with the topic, express the opposing opinion. Elaborate on your arguments and provide counterarguments. Exclude harsh comments and offensive language from the narrative.
• The death penalty cannot be justified . Why do you think so? Give clear arguments to support your opinion. If you believe that the death penalty is justifiable, prove your position.
• Electronic voting in the United States should not be banned . Present the positive sides of this way of voting and convince the readers in your rightness. Don’t you agree with this opinion? Then, provide counterarguments.
• Abortion should be legal . Provide clear arguments to express your position. Or provide counterarguments to contradict the idea of abortion legalization.

👍 College Persuasive Essay Topics on Sociology

• Community services should be provided for mentally disabled people .
• Equality and diversity are the main social issues .
• Interpersonal communication skills are crucial in modern society.
• Gender inequalities in the 21st century should be overcome .
• Should the Canadian government legalize prostitution?
• Max Weber’s rationality theory should be accepted by society .
• China should take specific steps to overcome the overpopulation problem .
• Gender stereotypes in a family should be dismantled.

• Abusive relationships in a family should not be hidden.
• Implementing more tough punishments on the lawbreakers should reduce the crime rates of the USA.
• Does family promote or limit mobility? Choose one side of the issue and provide clear arguments to support your ideas.
• Divorce has negative effects on children . Do you agree with this statement? Convince the readers to accept your point of view by stating your position clearly and powerfully.
• Birth control should be monitored on a governmental level. Express your opinion regarding birth control in modern society. Conduct a study on the cultural, religious, and political aspects of the birth control issue.
• Is there the right age to get married? Decide if there are any age suggestions to create a family or no? Support your choice with bright ideas and appropriate examples.
• To resolve the conflict, we need to know the nature of the conflict . Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Provide strong arguments to make people believe in your point of view. How do you think psychology works while resolving the conflict?

💰 College Persuasive Essay Ideas on Economics

• Competing theories are the core of economic development.
• We have to consider John Locke’s and Karl Marx’s economic ideas nowadays.
• Demand and supply correlation in the market matters a lot.
• Adam Smith’s “invisible hand” concept can improve modern economics .
• If we want to stabilize the economy, we have to implement the monetary policy .
• Should big banks be broken up?
• We should consider the relationship between money supply and inflation while preventing the high level of inflation.
• We shouldn’t take the Keynesian explanation of the recession too seriously.
• Industrialization plays a significant role in economic development.
• Small business owners should receive financial support during the period of crisis.

• The governments should reduce monopoly power.
• The role of understanding the goals of human resource management in the context of human capital theory . Explain the significance of effective HR management for a business flourishing. Persuade your readers to invest enough resources in human capital.
• Exchange regimes have a significant impact on macroeconomic performance . Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Provide well-developed arguments to prove your point of view. Persuade your readers to accept your position.
• Consumer behavior is different in every country. If you agree, develop this idea by providing strong arguments. If you don’t, state your position. Either way, support your arguments with supporting evidence. Make your readers follow your opinion.
• The understanding of the basic concepts of economics is essential for every person . Explain how the knowledge of economics can help people to manage their money wisely. How to survive during the crisis? How to lead a business successfully, etc. Persuade your readers to study the basics of economics.

💡 Interesting College Persuasive Essay Topics

Are you already impressed with a diversity of topics our team collected for you? But don’t think that’s all we have to offer for you. Since our mission is to help you, we have more persuasive essay ideas for college to share.

Below, you can find more fascinating ideas for your assignments. For your convenience, we divided persuasive essay topics for college into several sections. Investigate our ideas and don’t hesitate to use them.

🚌 Transportation Persuasive Essay Topics

• Planes should newer take off if weather conditions are inappropriate .
• Never drive a car if you are under the alcohol or drug effect .
• Hybrid cars are environmentally friendly, so they should become the future of the transportation industry .
• Why should people study driving?
• The usage of alternative energy resources should reshape the global transportation infrastructure .
• The governments should invest enough money in public transport advancement .
• Cars usage should be regulated .
• A school bus should be checked at least once a month to ensure the safety of pupils.
• The reserves of petroleum should be replenished to provide a proper transportation industry operation.
• The shipping of essential goods during the state of emergency (quarantine, dangerous natural conditions, etc.) should be free.
• We should use public transport instead of private cars to save the environment.
• Hybrid engine vs. standard engine . Examine the positive and negative aspects of both of them. Which one would you prefer? Persuade your readers to support your opinion by giving clear arguments.
• Information technology influences the logistics industry to a great extent . Provide appropriate examples of the IT impact on logistics. Convince your readers of the importance of your opinion.
• The role of transportation in the development of tourism . Prove your audience that transportation progress has a direct impact on tourism opportunities.

• We have to reduce the use of crude oil in the transportation industry . What are the possible adverse ramifications of such oil usage? Persuade your readers to limit applying this type of fuel. If you don’t agree with the idea, express the opposing opinion. Elaborate on your arguments and provide counterarguments.

🌿 Environmental Persuasive Essay Topics

• The government should control the overpopulation to prevent consequences for the environment .
• Human activity should be limited to preserve biodiversity .
• We have to examine an ecologically sustainable approach .
• Alternative energy sources are essential for saving the planet .
• We should try our best to live a zero-waste lifestyle .
• Saving endangered species must be a top priority issue for environmental organizations.
• Solar energy can save the environment.
• Hunting sports should be banned because they harm biodiversity.
• The conservation of global resources is necessary for maintaining the lifecycle of the planet.
• Waste sorting should be mandatory all around the world.
• Stopping deforestation will prevent the loss of natural habitat for animals.
• Tourism negatively affects wildlife. Comment no the negative consequences of traveling on nature. If you believe that tourism does not harm wildlife, provide counterarguments to claim your position.
• Farming has to be wise. Explain how intensive farming damages nature. Convince your readers about the importance of following the farming rules. They can help to prevent intensive farming’s adverse ramifications.
• The Prime Days on Amazon should be banned . Explain how the incredibly low prices on items during the Prime Days result in extremely high costs for the environment. Persuade your readers to resist the desire to buy unnecessary goods from Amazon.
• Without rainforests, our planet will suffocate . Prove the significance of the preservation of the rainforests for the environment.

⚙ Technology Persuasive Essay Ideas

• Globalization influences computer technologies to a great extent .
• The government should implement Internet censorship .
• Cloud computing is an innovative era in computer science .
• Cyberbullying should be controlled to prevent a negative influence on youth .
• Dependency on computers is a considerable threat to human well-being .
• Data and information security should be a top concern of every internet user .
• Investing money in developing information technology systems is profitable for companies.
• The internet blocks the development of human intelligence.
• To prevent the development of serious illnesses, we should use genetic technology.
• Technological advancement should focus on the improvement of the health sector.
• We have to use technology wisely to make people smarter.
• A scientific revolution started the technological advancement. Convince your readers about the importance of the scientific revolution in technological development. If you don’t agree with the topic, express the opposing opinion, providing counterarguments.
• E-books or audiobooks will never replace paper books. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? State your position clearly and make your readers accept it.
• Nowadays, society is too dependent on computer technologies . Comment on its negative and positive sides in the life of modern people. Persuade the readers not to overuse technology in everyday life.
• Technology and science complement each other. Provide clear arguments to prove this idea or counterarguments to disprove it.

😃 Easy College Persuasive Topics

Do you think that persuasive essays have to cover only serious or global issues? Do you feel as if you have to be overwhelmed with the complexity of the subject? You are mistaken. A paper won’t become less successful if it explores even everyday life topics.

That’s why:

We prepared the next section of the article for you. Here you can find simple persuasive essay ideas for college students. Select a fascinating topic and compose an outstanding essay.

🎶 Persuasive Essay Ideas for College about Music

• Music has a significant impact on culture .
• Music preferences depend on personality type .
• Music can influence our behavior .

• Songs with lyrics that promote violent behavior should be banned.
• A musician is not just a job; it is a vocation.
• Medical workers should investigate the positive effect of music on mental illnesses’ treatment.
• Music can be helpful in the learning process.
• Good song lyrics can inspire people . Provide a sample of inspiring verses. How can it motivate listeners? Persuade the readers to pay attention to the song lyrics while listening to music.
• A guitar is always a good idea for friendly gatherings . Prove to your readers that several songs played on a guitar can create a warm and cozy atmosphere.
• Rap reflects violence. This is a generally accepted opinion. Do you agree or disagree with it? Prove your point of view by providing well-developed arguments.

🌍 Persuasive Topics for College on Traveling

• While traveling, health and safety issues should be a top priority .
• Tourism should be sustainable .
• A trip to India will make you see the world from the other side.
• Summer will become more memorable and fascinating if you travel.
• Traveling broadens people’s minds.
• Traveling with family or friends is an essential part of a happy life.
• Spending a holiday on a trip is always more pleasurable than in front of a TV or computer.
• Every person should visit Europe at least once in life. Explain why Europe is a must-see destination for every tourist.
• People should travel as much as they want. Persuade people not to resist the desire to explore new places by listing the advantages of traveling.
• Traveling is affordable for everyone. Persuade people to visit various countries, even with a limited budget.

✌ Persuasive Essay Ideas for College about Lifestyle

• Parents should be responsible for their children’s obesity .
• Proper nutrition and positive behavior prevent cancer .
• A healthy lifestyle prevents aging .
• Weight management programs and hypnotherapy are useful in maintaining good shape and a healthy organism .
• An active way of life should replace a sedentary lifestyle to prevent heart diseases.
• You should plan your weight loss process wisely.
• Well-balanced nutrition is a way to a healthy and beautiful body.
• Regular yoga and fitness will help you to maintain mental and physical wellness.
• Regular physical activities and enough sleep can help students to study better.
• Media influences the development of eating disorders . Explain the mechanisms media’s effect on eating disorders. Persuade your readers to pay enough attention to the information on social media.

📺 Persuasive Topics for College about Media

• The role of mass media in modern society shouldn’t be underestimated .
• Media affects the way people look at society .

• TV shows have a negative influence on children .
• Parents should control the effects of mass media advertising on teenagers .
• Professional psychologists should review every cartoon before being released on television.
• The information on the internet should be filtered to avoid the spreading of fake news.
• Censorship is a must-have for modern television.
• Old cartoons are more insightful than modern ones. Compare and contrast old and new animated films. Prove the usefulness of old ones. Convince the audience to make their children familiar with old cartoons.
• Social media develops an inferiority complex among teenagers . How pictures of luxurious life in social networking sites influence adolescents’ self-esteem? Persuade the readers to filter the information seen in social media.
• Mass media in the 1950s was more ethical than contemporary mass media. Analyze the ethical issues that are present in modern media. Why is following the ethical rules while sharing the information through the mass media vital?

🏫 Persuasive Essay Ideas for College on Teens

• Both abstinence and sex education should be taught in high schools .
• Professional psychologists or psychiatrists should treat anxiety disorders in children and adolescents .
• Cheating in schools should be strictly punished.
• Understanding teen depression is a crucial step in overcoming it.
• The federal government should enact anti-bullying laws .
• Bullying in school should be the main issue to deal with for the headteacher.
• The teenage period requires constant monitoring of children’s behavior by parents and teachers.
• Parents should have access to teenagers’ academic results.
• The mental health of teens is precarious. Convince the readers to monitor and maintain adolescents’ mental health.
• Parents should control social media usage by teenagers. Why should parents monitor the social networking accounts of their children? Explain why it is useful to teach teens how to behave on social media.

📚 Persuasive Topics for College on Literature

• Literature studying should be mandatory in schools.
• Literature teaches us how to live a worthy life.
• Robin Hood should become an example to follow.
• You have to read some books several times throughout life to get the idea.
• Lyric poetry may help in dealing with inner conflicts.
• William Shakespeare is an outstanding figure of English literature that should always be appreciated.
• Every person should have one book that will always remain their favorite one.
• The theme of Romeo and Juliet will always remain relatable. Support this idea by providing compelling arguments and examples from the play. If you don’t agree with the statement, present clear counterarguments to prove your point of view.
• The parents should read fairy tales to their children from early childhood. Persuade your audience to make their kids familiar with the fairy tales. Explain the importance of positive aspects of this genre of literature.
• Dorian Gray and Oscar Wilde are connected. Describe Oscar Wilde’s background. Analyze how the author reflected his personality in the character of Dorian Gray. Convince your readers to accept your point of view. Propose examples from the book and the author’s biography.

🖐 25 More Topics to Persuade College Students

Here you can find a pleasant bonus from our team—25 more ideas to write about. You can use them not only for essays but also as persuasive speech topics for college.

So, take the benefit of our list of topics. Show an outstanding academic performance in the college.

College Persuasive Essay Topics: Family

• A happy relationship should be based on trust and honesty.
• In small and big families, parents should treat their children equally.
• After giving birth, motherhood should become the primary concern of a woman’s life.
• Parents should be the most significant support for their kids when they are sad, confused, or lost in life.
• Children should take their retired parents to their home instead of the nursing home.

College Persuasive Essay Topics: Health

• Physical activity is an effective way to prevent heart diseases.
• People should quit smoking .
• Mental health is not less important than physical health.
• Well-balanced nutrition is key to a healthy body.
• Taking care of general wellness should be everyone’s primary concern.

College Persuasive Essay Topics: Medicine

• Strong pain killers should be sold by prescription only.
• Drug prices should be set ethically .
• Herbal medications are the safest.
• Self-medication is extremely dangerous, even in the case of a simple cold or an allergy.
• Differentiating various forms of medicines is essential . What is the working principle of a capsule, pill, syrup, etc.? Prove that the inappropriate application will not have an appropriate effect.

College Persuasive Essay Topics: Sports

• Visiting a gym is extremely useful for our health .
• Physical education should be mandatory in high school.
• Extreme sports are only for professional athletes.
• The governments should invest enough money in the development of sports schools.
• Football is not only for boys. Women can create a successful football team, as well.

College Persuasive Essay Topics: Religion

• Discrimination by religion or culture should not be acceptable in modern society.
• Every person should have a right to choose a god or goddess to worship.
• The representatives of different religions should be tolerant of each other.
• The attitude towards wealth in Christianity differs from the perception of wealth in Islam.
• Any other religious representatives should not criticize the central beliefs of Judaism .

Thank you for visiting our page! We hope the information was useful to you. Don’t forget to leave your comments and share the article with other students.

🔗 References

• Persuasive Essays, Writing Resources, Hamilton College
• Persuasive Essay Outline: HCC Learning Web, Houston Community College
• Choosing a Topic for Your College Essay: Essay Writing Center, International Student
• Choosing College Essay Topics: Accepted
• 35 College Essay Prompts and Topics: Kayla Rutledge, SignUpGenius
• How to Write a College Essay: Kelly Mae Ross, Devon Haynie, and Josh Moody for U.S. News
• How To Answer the 2022-23 Common App Essay Prompts: College Essay Advisors
• Writing a Political Science Essay: Charles King, Georgetown University
• Writing a Paper about an Environmental Issue: Frederic Beaudry, ThoughtCo
• Evidence: The Writing Center, the University of North Carolina, at Chapel Hill
• Introducing Quotations and Paraphrases: UNSW Current Students
• How Do I Write an Intro, Conclusion, & Body Paragraph: College of Literature, Science, and Arts, University of Michigan
• Essay Writing Guide for Psychology Students: Saul McLeod, Simply Psychology
• How to Write a Persuasive Essay: Writing Guides, Ultius
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• Should students be allowed to have phones in elementary and high schools?
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• Should students be paid for having good grades?
• Should illegal immigrants be allowed to get drivers licenses?
• Should not wearing a seat-belt be illegal?
• Should student’s textbooks be replaced by notebook computers or tablets?
• Should students have to pass a basic skills test to graduate high school?
• Should schools raise money by selling candy and sugary soft drinks to students?
• Should schools serve french-fries and fried potato products to students at lunch?
• Should students’ grades in gym affect their grade point averages?
• Should girls be allowed to play on boys sports teams?
• Should teens be able to buy violent video games?
• Should boys and girls be in separate classes?
• Should teenage girls be allowed to get birth control without the permission of their parents?
• Should our country have free health care?
• Should immigration laws be reformed?
• Should the federal government recognize civil unions?
• Should people who download music and movies illegally be punished?
• Should school athletes have to be on the honor roll to play in games?
• Should music with curse words be allowed at school dances?
• Should public schools begin the day with a silent prayer time?
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• Should schools offer fast food options like McDonald’s or Taco Bell?
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• Should there be an ordinance citing people who play music too loudly $50?
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930 Comments

Wessam bedear.

Thanks for your support and cooperation. It is really helped a lot . Much appreciated

Reginald Ademola

Thank you so much for making your resources freely available.

Eric Villari

Thanks for all the effort you’ve put into the site. I teach in Australia, and I tweak and change topics/wording to suit, but It’s a great survey course in general Literacy you’ve put together… Thanks!

Thank you so much. What an informative and comprehensive site. You have provided an array of persuasive topics. I love this site!!

Marg L Brewerton

Thank you for these ideas. An extra idea from one of my students: Should we fix earth or spend our money on interplanetary travel?

Barbara Pulehetoa

I love this website. thank you for making this website

amazing website helped a lot

In my language arts class we are assigned to write two opinion essays the first one my teacher gave us but the second one we choose. i have a trouble with choosing but now that i came to this website i can choose easily and fast. thank you, thank you, thank you for this website.

this site has been absolutely resourceful and its the best site iv been on

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Persuasive Essay Topics: Top 150 Choices

Did you know that the word 'persuade' is derived from the Latin word 'persuadere,' which means 'to make someone agree or believe through argument or reasoning'? It's a fascinating linguistic connection to the art of writing a persuasive essay, a skill that has the potential to shape opinions, spark discussions, and even drive change.

In this article, our persuasive essay writer will delve into a carefully curated selection of 150 essay topics that are designed to ignite debate, stimulate critical thinking, and empower you to make a compelling case for your viewpoint. Whether you're a student looking for a captivating, persuasive essay idea for your next assignment or an advocate seeking to raise awareness about critical issues, our list offers a diverse range of ideas that can serve as a powerful catalyst for meaningful discourse and positive transformation.

A Comprehensive List of Persuasive Essay Topics

In this comprehensive list, our paper writing service experts have compiled an extensive range of persuasive essay topics to suit various interests and academic levels. Whether you're a college student seeking to engage in complex debates, a high school student eager to make a compelling case, or an advocate looking to address critical issues, we've got you covered. Our topics span across diverse categories such as education, history, society, health, and more. This article is your one-stop resource for finding the perfect topic that aligns with your passion and purpose, ensuring your persuasive essays stand out.

Good Persuasive Essay Topics

In our pursuit of engaging and impactful essay subjects, let's begin by delving into ten distinctive topics that transcend the commonplace. These choices not only provide fresh perspectives but also present an opportunity to learn how to research a topic effectively.

• Contemplating the Art of Mindful Consumption : Discuss the ethical implications of our consumer choices and how conscious shopping can transform our world.
• Digital Privacy in the Age of Big Data: Analyze the trade-offs between personal privacy and data collection in our increasingly interconnected world.
• The Future of Work: Universal Basic Income: Delve into the concept of universal basic income and its potential to address economic inequality and job displacement in the age of automation.
• Cryptocurrency Adoption and Its Impact on Traditional Banking: Examine how the rise of cryptocurrencies is reshaping the financial landscape and challenging traditional banking systems.
• Sustainable Fashion: Balancing Style and Environmental Responsibility: Discuss the fashion industry's ecological footprint and the importance of sustainable clothing practices.
• Decoding Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: Explore the transformative potential of AI in revolutionizing healthcare and its implications for medical professionals and patients.
• The Power of Solar Roadways: Investigate the concept of solar roadways as an innovative solution for both energy generation and sustainable infrastructure.
• The Intersection of Virtual Reality and Education: Analyze the benefits and challenges of integrating virtual reality technology into the classroom for enhanced learning experiences.
• Reimagining Urban Planning: The 15-Minute City Concept: Delve into the urban planning movement that aims to create more sustainable and livable cities by emphasizing short commutes and community-centric design.
• The Impact of Eco-Anxiety on Mental Health: Discuss the psychological effects of climate change-related anxiety and ways to address and mitigate its impact on individuals and society.

Get Pro Help and Boost Your Grades!

Hopefully this guide will help you discover good topics for a persuasive speech or essay and write a top-notch paper. Looking for more advice or professional help?

Persuasive Essay Topics for College

When it comes to persuasive essay topics for students, the expectation is high. College-level writing demands critical thinking, compelling arguments, and well-researched positions. Here are ten thought-provoking topics tailored for the academic environment:

• The Ethics of Cloning and Genetic Engineering in Higher Education: Explore the moral and scientific considerations of cloning and genetic engineering research conducted in university settings.
• Quantum Computing and Its Implications for Computer Science Education: Delve into the potential of quantum computing and its influence on computer science programs in colleges and universities.
• Deconstructing the Prison-Industrial Complex: A Call for Education Reform: Discuss how higher education institutions can play a role in addressing the social and economic issues related to mass incarceration.
• Space Exploration and University Research: Analyze the contributions of universities to space exploration and their potential impact on future interstellar exploration.
• The Intersection of Art and Artificial Intelligence: Examine the collaboration between artists and AI technology in creating innovative and thought-provoking works of art.
• The Philosophy of Time Travel: Academic Approaches and Paradoxes: Explore the theoretical aspects of time travel from a philosophical and scientific perspective.
• Biodiversity Conservation in University Campuses: Discuss the role of colleges in preserving local biodiversity and creating sustainable environments within their campuses.
• The Influence of Virtual Reality on Archaeological Studies: Investigate how VR technology is transforming archaeological research and preservation efforts.
• The Philosophy of Mind in the Age of Brain-Computer Interfaces: Explore the ethical and philosophical implications of brain-computer interface technology in academic and research settings.
• Transhumanism and the Future of Human Enhancement: Discuss the ethical, social, and philosophical aspects of transhumanism within the context of higher education.

Persuasive Essay Topics High School

High school students often engage with a wide range of issues and concerns. Here are some essay topics tailored to their interests and age groups:

• Promoting Financial Literacy in High Schools: Discuss the importance of including comprehensive financial literacy education in high school curriculums to equip students with essential life skills.
• Social Media's Impact on Teen Mental Health: Explore the influence of social media on the mental well-being of high school students and advocate for responsible usage.
• The Need for Racial and Cultural Diversity in High School Reading Lists: Analyze the benefits of incorporating more diverse voices and perspectives in the required reading list.
• Youth Activism and Its Impact on Social Change: Highlight the role of young activists in shaping social and political movements, both historically and in the present.
• The Effects of Violent Video Games on Adolescent Behavior: Discuss the potential impact of violent video games on high school students and the debate over-regulation.
• Promoting Healthy Eating Habits in Schools: Advocate for better nutritional standards in high school cafeterias to combat childhood obesity and encourage healthy eating.
• Cyberbullying Prevention and High School Policies: Examine the issue of cyberbullying and the role of high schools in preventing and addressing this problem.
• The Pros and Cons of School Uniforms: Debate the advantages and disadvantages of implementing school uniforms in high schools.
• Youth Voting Rights and Civic Engagement: Discuss the benefits of lowering the voting age to 16 and increasing youth participation in elections.
• Climate Change Education in High Schools: Explore the need for comprehensive climate change education in high schools to prepare the next generation for environmental challenges.

Persuasive Essay Topics on Education

Education is a dynamic and crucial field that constantly evolves. Here are ten topics related to education:

• The Impact of Inclusive Education on Student Development: Explore the advantages of inclusive classrooms where students with diverse abilities learn together.
• The Role of Teachers in Fostering Critical Thinking: Discuss how educators can nurture critical thinking skills in students, preparing them for a rapidly changing world.
• Standardized Testing: Is it a True Measure of Student Ability? Debate the effectiveness and limitations of standardized testing in assessing student knowledge and readiness.
• Digital Learning Tools in the Classroom: Analyze the benefits and challenges of integrating digital technology into the education system.
• The Importance of Arts Education in Schools: Advocate for the inclusion of arts education as a fundamental part of the curriculum, promoting creativity and well-rounded development.
• Homeschooling vs. Traditional Schooling: A Comparative Analysis: Examine the pros and cons of homeschooling in contrast to traditional classroom education.
• The Role of Education in Combating Cyberbullying: Discuss how schools can address the issue of cyberbullying and promote safe online behavior.
• The Necessity of Physical Education: Encouraging Active Lifestyles: Explore the importance of physical education in high schools and its contribution to students' health.
• The Impact of Early Childhood Education on Future Success: Discuss the long-term benefits of quality early childhood education programs.
• Environmental Education: Preparing Students for a Sustainable Future: Advocate for the inclusion of environmental education in school curriculums to raise awareness about sustainability and ecological responsibility.

Persuasive Essay Topics on Society

The topics that follow provide distinctive viewpoints on society, offering a novel vantage point from which to delve into the complexities of human culture, behavior, and interpersonal dynamics.

• The Influence of Culinary Culture on Society: Delve into how culinary traditions, food choices, and dining habits shape our cultural identity and social interactions.
• Understanding Society Through Foreign Language Semiotics: Examine how symbols and signs in everyday life convey meaning, reflect societal values, and influence communication.
• The Role of Festivals and Celebrations in Building Community: Explore how communal celebrations and festivals foster a sense of togetherness and unity within societies.
• The Art of Storytelling: Oral Traditions and Their Impact on Culture: Analyze the significance of oral storytelling traditions in preserving cultural heritage and passing down knowledge from generation to generation.
• Collective Memory and Historical Narratives: Discuss how societies construct and maintain collective memories and the impact of these narratives on their sense of identity and unity.
• Urban Planning and the Psychology of Space: Examine the psychological effects of urban environments, architectural design, and city planning on the well-being and behavior of residents.
• The Societal Significance of Public Transportation: Explore how public transportation systems shape social interactions, reduce environmental impact, and influence urban development.
• Fashion as a Mirror of Society: Discuss how clothing, styles, and fashion trends reflect cultural values, historical influences, and societal changes.
• The Rituals of Everyday Life: Examining Mundane Practices: Analyze the significance of daily rituals and mundane practices in creating a sense of order and meaning in society.
• Digital Subcultures and Online Communities: Investigate how online communities and subcultures have emerged as significant facets of modern society, influencing the way people connect, share interests, and form identities.

Persuasive Essay Topics on History

When considering how to write persuasive essay on history, these topics will provide you with a platform to delve into the past, draw valuable lessons, and make compelling arguments about the significance of historical events, figures, and movements in our world today.

• The Significance of Historical Preservation: Discuss the importance of preserving historical sites and artifacts for future generations.
• The Impact of World War II on Global Politics: Analyze how World War II redefined international relations and its lasting effects on the world.
• The Legacy of the Civil Rights Movement: Explore the achievements and ongoing challenges related to the civil rights movement in the United States.
• The Role of Ancient History in Modern Society: Discuss the relevance of studying ancient civilizations and their impact on contemporary culture and politics.
• The Cultural Significance of the Renaissance Period: Analyze the contributions of the Renaissance era to art, science, and human thought.
• The Causes and Consequences of the Industrial Revolution: Examine the factors that led to the Industrial Revolution and its effects on society.
• The Impact of Colonialism on Indigenous Peoples: Discuss the long-term consequences of European colonialism on indigenous populations and their cultures.
• The Lessons of the Cold War: Analyze the Cold War's influence on geopolitics and diplomacy and what lessons can be drawn from it for current international relations.
• The Role of Historical Truth in Reconciliation: Discuss the importance of acknowledging historical injustices in the process of reconciliation and healing.
• The Influence of Historical Figures on Modern Political Thought: Explore how historical figures have shaped contemporary political ideologies and movements.

Persuasive Essay Topics About Social Issues

Social issues encompass a wide range of concerns that affect individuals and communities. Here are topics related to social issues:

• Addressing Homelessness in Urban Areas: Discuss strategies to combat homelessness and support those in need in cities and urban environments.
• The Impact of Bullying in Schools: Analyze the consequences of bullying and explore ways to create a safer and more inclusive school environment.
• Youth Substance Abuse and Prevention: Advocate for effective prevention programs and support for young people struggling with substance abuse.
• Racial Profiling and Police Violence: Discuss racial profiling and excessive use of force by law enforcement and advocate for reforms.
• Access to Affordable Healthcare: Explore the challenges and solutions for providing affordable and accessible healthcare for all.
• Gender and LGBTQ+ Rights: Advocate for gender equality and the rights of the LGBTQ+ community, including issues like marriage equality and transgender rights.
• Combating Human Trafficking: Discuss the global issue of human trafficking and propose solutions to combat it effectively.
• Mental Health Stigma and Awareness: Explore the stigma surrounding mental health and ways to promote awareness and destigmatization.
• The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health: Analyze the relationship between social media use and mental health concerns, such as anxiety and depression.
• Environmental Justice and Access to Clean Water: Advocate for equitable access to clean water and address environmental disparities in vulnerable communities.

Crime and Legal Persuasive Essay Topics

Issues related to crime and the legal system are often the subject of intense debate. These topics provide a platform for students to examine complex issues in criminal justice, law, and ethics while presenting well-researched arguments and potential solutions.

• The Efficacy of Restorative Justice Programs: Explore the effectiveness of restorative justice as an alternative to traditional punitive measures in the criminal justice system.
• Sentencing Reform and the Need for Second Chances: Advocate for reevaluating sentencing guidelines and promoting rehabilitation over lengthy prison sentences.
• Cybersecurity and Digital Privacy Laws: Examine the importance of legal measures to protect digital privacy and combat cybercrimes.
• Capital Punishment: Abolition or Reform? Analyze the arguments for and against the death penalty and consider potential reforms.
• Criminal Profiling and Ethical Considerations: Explore the use of criminal profiling in law enforcement and the ethical questions it raises.
• Hate Crimes Legislation and Protection: Advocate for stronger hate crime laws and measures to protect vulnerable communities.
• Juvenile Justice Reform: Discuss the need for improvements in the juvenile justice system, including alternatives to incarceration for young offenders.
• Civil Asset Forfeiture Reform: Discuss the practice of civil asset forfeiture and advocate for reforms to address potential abuses and protect property rights.
• Mandatory Minimum Sentences: A Review and Reform: Analyze the impact of mandatory minimum sentencing laws and propose potential reforms for a more equitable criminal justice system.
• The Role of Mental Health Courts: Explore the benefits and challenges of mental health courts as an alternative approach to addressing criminal cases involving individuals with mental illnesses.

Health Persuasive Essay Topics

These health-related essay topics encompass a wide range of issues, from public health policies to individual health and well-being, providing opportunities for students to explore critical topics and propose meaningful solutions.

• Universal Healthcare: A Right or a Privilege? Debate the merits of universal healthcare and its implications for society and the economy.
• The Obesity Epidemic and Public Health: Discuss strategies to combat obesity, promote healthy lifestyles, and reduce the associated health risks.
• Vaccination Mandates and Public Health: Analyze the controversy surrounding vaccination mandates and their impact on public health.
• Digital Wellness in the Age of Screens : Examine the impact of constant screen exposure on physical and mental health.
• The Role of Nutrition Education in Schools: Advocate for the inclusion of comprehensive nutrition education in the school curriculum to combat childhood obesity and promote healthy eating habits.
• The Opioid Crisis and Addiction Treatment: Explore strategies for addressing the opioid epidemic and improving access to addiction treatment.
• Reproductive Health and Women's Rights: Discuss the importance of women's reproductive health rights and access to healthcare services.
• Healthcare Disparities in Underserved Communities: Analyze the disparities in healthcare access and outcomes in underserved and marginalized communities and propose solutions.
• Telemedicine and the Future of Healthcare: Examine the growth of telemedicine and its potential to improve healthcare access, especially in rural areas.
• The Impact of Aging Populations on Healthcare Systems: Discuss the challenges and innovations needed to address the healthcare needs of an increasingly aging population.

Women's and Gender Persuasive Essay Topics

Gender and women's issues are essential topics for discussion and advocacy, inviting students to address crucial matters related to gender and work toward a more equitable and inclusive society.

• Equal Pay for Equal Work: Advocate for closing the gender pay gap and ensuring equal pay for women in the workplace.
• Women in Leadership: Breaking the Glass Ceiling: Discuss the barriers women face in reaching leadership positions and strategies to promote gender equality in leadership roles.
• Reproductive Rights and Access to Healthcare: Explore the importance of women's reproductive rights and access to comprehensive healthcare services, including contraception and family planning.
• Violence Against Women: Prevention and Support: Discuss the prevalence of violence against women, including domestic violence and sexual assault, and propose strategies for prevention and support for survivors.
• Women in STEM Fields: Encouraging Gender Diversity: Analyze the challenges women face in STEM careers and advocate for increased gender diversity in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
• Gender Stereotypes and Their Impact: Examine the influence of gender stereotypes on society and discuss strategies to challenge and overcome these biases.
• The Representation of Women in Media: Discuss the portrayal of women in the media and the need for more diverse and empowering representations.
• Intersectionality and Women's Rights: Explore how race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and other factors intersect with gender, affecting women's experiences and rights.
• Child Marriage and Gender-Based Violence: Advocate for ending child marriage and addressing gender-based violence against girls and young women.
• The Role of Men in Feminism: Discuss the importance of male allies in the feminist movement and how they can support gender equality.

Ethics Persuasive Essay Topics

Ethical issues are at the core of many important debates and decisions in society. Here are some interesting suggestions from our online essay writer that explore various ethical dilemmas:

• Ethics of Artificial Intelligence and Automation: Discuss the ethical considerations surrounding AI, automation and their impact on the workforce and decision-making.
• Bioethical Dilemmas: Genetic Engineering and Designer Babies: Analyze the ethical concerns raised by genetic engineering and the creation of designer babies.
• Ethics in Animal Testing and Research: Debate the ethical considerations of using animals for scientific experiments and research.
• Euthanasia and the Right to Die with Dignity: Discuss the ethical aspects of euthanasia and whether individuals have the right to make end-of-life decisions.
• Environmental Ethics and Conservation: Explore the ethical principles underpinning environmental conservation and sustainability efforts.
• Ethical Implications of Privacy in the Digital Age: Analyze the ethical dilemmas related to data privacy, surveillance, and digital information sharing.
• Ethics in Journalism and Media Integrity: Discuss the ethical responsibilities of journalists and media outlets in reporting news and information accurately.
• Ethical Considerations in Healthcare Resource Allocation: Explore the ethical challenges healthcare professionals face when allocating limited resources, such as during a public health crisis.
• Ethical Implications of Cloning and Stem Cell Research: Examine the ethical concerns and potential benefits of cloning and stem cell research.
• Corporate Social Responsibility and Ethical Business Practices: Advocate for ethical standards and social responsibility in business practices, including issues related to sustainability and fair labor practices.

Science Persuasive Essay Topics

These science-related topics allow college students to engage in discussions about the role of science in addressing critical global issues and how scientific knowledge can shape our understanding of the world and improve our lives.

• Climate Change and Urgent Action: Advocate for the importance of addressing climate change and the role of scientific research in finding solutions.
• Space Exploration: The Quest for Knowledge and Discovery: Discuss the value of space exploration and the knowledge gained from missions to the cosmos.
• Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) and Food Security: Explore the benefits and risks of GMOs in agriculture and their role in food security.
• The Role of Science in Addressing Public Health Crises: Analyze the significance of science in responding to public health crises, such as pandemics and infectious diseases.
• The Untapped Potential of Mycorrhizal Fungi in Enhancing Sustainable Agriculture : Explore the largely uncharted territory of harnessing mycorrhizal fungi to improve soil health, nutrient absorption, and crop yields.
• The Importance of STEM Education: Advocate for the promotion of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education in schools to prepare future generations for scientific and technological challenges.
• Artificial Intelligence and its Ethical Implications: Explore the ethical concerns related to AI technology, such as decision-making algorithms and machine learning.
• The Impact of Scientific Discoveries on Medical Ethics: Discuss how scientific advances, such as gene editing and organ transplantation, influence medical ethics and healthcare decision-making.
• Biodiversity Conservation and Ecosystem Health: Analyze the role of science in preserving biodiversity and maintaining the health of ecosystems.
• The Role of Scientific Skepticism in Critical Thinking: Advocate for the importance of scientific skepticism in evaluating claims, combating pseudoscience, and fostering critical thinking.

Persuasive Essay Topics on AI Impact

These essay topics on AI impact suggested by our dissertation service writers provide students with an opportunity to critically examine the various ways AI is reshaping our world, considering both the benefits and challenges it presents.

• AI in Literature and Creative Writing: A New Era of Storytelling: Explore the use of AI in generating creative content, such as poems, stories, and novels, and its potential impact on the literary world.
• AI in Archaeology and Historical Preservation: Discuss how AI technologies are aiding in archaeological discoveries, historical research, and the preservation of cultural heritage.
• AI and the Future of Personal Relationships: From Virtual Companions to AI Love: Examine the ethical and emotional implications of AI-powered virtual companions and their potential influence on human relationships.
• AI in the Workplace: Job Automation and the Future of Employment: Analyze the impact of AI on the workforce, considering job displacement and the need for new skill sets.
• AI and Privacy Concerns: Balancing Innovation with Data Protection: Debate the ethical and privacy considerations related to AI technologies and data collection.
• AI and Mental Health: Chatbots and Supportive Technologies: Explore the use of AI in providing mental health support, including chatbots and virtual therapists.
• AI and Criminal Justice: Predictive Policing and Bias Mitigation: Analyze the role of AI in criminal justice, including predictive policing and efforts to address bias.
• AI in Art and Creativity: Tools, Innovations, and Copyright: Discuss the impact of AI in creative fields, raising questions about copyright and the definition of art.
• AI in Environmental Conservation: Enhancing Conservation Efforts: Explore how AI technologies are used to monitor and protect endangered species and natural ecosystems.
• AI and Accessibility: Empowering Individuals with Disabilities: Advocate for the use of AI to improve accessibility and inclusivity for individuals with disabilities.

Persuasive Essay Topics on Racism

These persuasive writing prompts on racism provide opportunities to engage in important discussions and advocate for social justice, equity, and change. They encourage college students to address the multifaceted issues related to racism and contribute to the ongoing fight against discrimination.

• The Impact of Systemic Racism on Communities of Color: Discuss the pervasive effects of systemic racism on individuals and communities, including disparities in education, healthcare, and criminal justice.
• Racial Profiling and Police Violence: Analyze the issues of racial profiling and the use of force by law enforcement, as well as strategies for reform.
• Hate Crimes and Discrimination: Explore the prevalence of hate crimes based on race, religion, or ethnicity and advocate for measures to combat discrimination.
• The Importance of Diverse Representation in Media: Discuss the need for more diverse and accurate portrayals of racial and ethnic minorities in film, television, and advertising.
• Affirmative Action: Balancing Equal Opportunity and Meritocracy: Debate the role of affirmative action policies in addressing historical injustices and promoting diversity in education and employment.
• Race and Education: Addressing the School-to-Prison Pipeline: Examine the disproportionate impact of disciplinary policies on students of color and the need to dismantle the school-to-prison pipeline.
• The Role of Allyship in Combating Racism: Discuss the importance of allyship in supporting marginalized communities and dismantling racist systems.
• Racial Health Disparities: A Call for Equity in Healthcare: Analyze the disparities in healthcare access and outcomes among racial and ethnic groups and advocate for equitable healthcare solutions.
• Microaggressions and Unconscious Bias: Explore the impact of microaggressions and unconscious bias on marginalized communities and strategies for raising awareness.
• Reparations for Historical Injustices: Debate the need for reparations to address the historical injustices inflicted on communities of color, particularly the descendants of enslaved individuals.

Unique Persuasive Essay Ideas

These persuasive essay ideas offer opportunities to explore unconventional and fascinating topics, encouraging critical thinking and in-depth examination of issues that may not be as widely discussed but are nonetheless thought-provoking.

• The Ethics of Space Colonization: Explore the ethical considerations and responsibilities of humanity as we venture into space and potentially colonize other planets.
• The Impact of Digital Immortality: Discuss the ethical and existential questions raised by advancements in digital technology that allow individuals to preserve their personalities and memories beyond their lifetimes.
• The Necessity of Emotional Education: Advocate for the inclusion of emotional intelligence and empathy education in schools to promote healthy relationships and emotional well-being.
• The Role of Psychedelics in Mental Health Treatment: Examine the potential therapeutic benefits of psychedelics, such as psilocybin, in the treatment of mental health disorders.
• The Art and Science of Laughter: Explore the physiological and psychological benefits of laughter and its potential as a form of therapy.
• The Future of Sustainable Fashion: Discuss innovations in sustainable fashion, including circular fashion, eco-friendly textiles, and ethical fashion practices.
• The Impact of Silence on Mental Health: Examine the importance of silence and solitude in maintaining mental well-being in a noisy and interconnected world.
• The Philosophy of Time Travel: Paradoxes and Possibilities: Delve into the philosophical questions and paradoxes related to time travel and its feasibility.
• Human Augmentation and Cyborg Ethics: Explore the ethical considerations surrounding human augmentation technologies and the blurring of boundaries between humans and machines.
• The Art of Procrastination: Creativity and Productivity: Discuss the potential benefits of procrastination in fostering creativity and innovation.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, this article has presented a diverse array of persuasive essay topics, spanning from pressing social issues to the ethical implications of AI and beyond. It highlights the importance of engaging in critical discourse, fostering empathy, and advocating for positive change in our ever-evolving world.

At the same time, if you find yourself seeking assistance with your academic endeavors, remember that we can help you with your homework, ensuring you stay on top of your studies and coursework. Whether it's tackling complex essays or asking for support like ' do my homework ,' our resources are here to aid you on your academic journey.

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Published on: Jan 4, 2023

Last updated on: Jan 29, 2024

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You're staring at a blank screen, trying to come up with a topic for your persuasive essay. You know you need to pick something interesting, but you're unsure where to start. 

It's hard to get motivated when it feels like everything has already been said on the topic you're considering. You are wondering how can you make your essay stand out.

The good news is that CollegeEssay.org  is here to help. 

We have compiled a list of potential persuasive essay topics to get your creative juices flowing. Whether you are looking for something controversial, humorous, or informative – we have it all. 

Take a look at our list of persuasive essay topics below to get started.

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Unique Persuasive Essay Topics for Students

Writing a persuasive essay can be quite an interesting task for students. It allows them to showcase their research and analytic skills and present their thoughts orderly. 

Choosing the right topic is key to making the writing process more enjoyable. 

Here are some great ideas that you can use for your essay: 

Persuasive Essay Topics for Middle School 

• Should students be required to wear uniforms in school? 
• What are the benefits of a longer school day? 
• How can technology help improve student engagement and learning? 
• Is it important for all schools to have equal access to resources? 
• Should physical education be mandatory in all schools? 
• How can schools better prepare students for entering the job market?
• Should a student’s grade be based solely on test performance?
• Is it important to limit screen time, or should there not be restrictions? 
• Should recess time be increased or decreased in school? 
• Is it beneficial for students to take part in after-school activities?

Persuasive Essay Topics for Grade 6 

• Should school lunch prices be lowered to make it more accessible for all students? 
• Is there an argument for allowing cell phone usage in the classroom? 
• Should schools offer a wider variety of electives? 
• Is there a persuasive case for requiring physical education classes in elementary and middle schools? 
• Should students be allowed to opt-out of standardized testing? 
• Is the current homework load for elementary and middle school students too much? 
• Should school provide free breakfast and lunch to all students, regardless of financial status?
• Should sixth-grade classes have more field trips and outdoor activities? 
• Should students have access to more technology in the classroom? 
• Is there an argument for making recess mandatory for all grade levels? 

Persuasive Essay Topics for Grade 7

• Should schools have a dress code? 
• Should students be required to do community service projects to graduate? 
• Is it necessary for all student-athletes to take mandatory drug tests? 
• Are the current laws on gun control sufficient enough? 
• Should same-sex marriage be legal? 
• Should teenage drivers be allowed to have passengers in their cars? 
• Is standardized testing an effective measure of student success?
• Should homework be abolished in schools? 
• Should young children be allowed to use mobile phones or tablets at school? 
• Are video games too violent for young children?

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Persuasive Essay Topics for High School 

• Should physical education classes be mandatory in high school?
• Is a strict dress code necessary for student success?
• Are standardized tests an effective measure of student achievement?
• Does social media have a positive or negative impact on teenagers?
• Should students be allowed to grade their teachers? 
• Should cell phones be prohibited in the classroom?
• Should schools offer fast food options like McDonald's or Taco Bell?
• Is competitive sports necessary for a well-rounded education? 
• Are after-school activities essential to a student’s development?
• Should students be allowed to choose their classes?

Persuasive Essay Topics for College 

• Should universities require all students to take at least one course in diversity studies? 
• Should universities implement free speech zones on campuses? 
• Should college athletes be paid for their performance? 
• Is it ethical for employers to ask about an applicant’s criminal history during the hiring process? 
• Should college students be required to take a foreign language course? 
• Should the US government provide free tuition for all qualifying students? 
• Is it ethical to use animals in scientific research? 
• Are standardized tests an adequate measure of academic aptitude and ability? 
• Should paper textbooks be replaced with e-books? 
• Should all students be required to learn coding and computer science in school? 

Persuasive Essay Topics for University 

• Should universities offer free tuition to all students?
• Are special scholarships beneficial for university students?
• Should college athletes be paid for their services?
• Is it important for universities to provide mental health resources to their students? 
• How can universities help prevent cheating and plagiarism among students?
• Should universities be required to provide online courses?
• Are university degree requirements outdated and irrelevant?
• Is it necessary for university students to take physical education classes? 
• Does the presence of social media in academia positively or negatively impact learning? 
• Should universities prioritize research over teaching?

Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics from Different Fields 

When choosing essay topics, there is no shortage of interesting persuasive essay topics from different fields available.

Here are some examples of interesting persuasive essay topics from different fields:

Arts & Culture 

• Should museums be more inclusive of diverse cultures?
• Should the government fund public art programs?
• Are comic books an important form of literature?
• Does graffiti have any value as an art form?
• Is the traditional concept of beauty outdated in today’s society? 
• Is it important for the public to have access to art galleries and museums?
• Do modern movies have any real artistic value?
• Are video games a form of art?
• Should government funding be given to the performing arts?
• Does the music industry put too much emphasis on image rather than talent?
• Should governments guarantee a minimum wage?
• Should the government subsidize green energy projects?
• Is it necessary to introduce higher taxes on wealthy people?
• Are free trade agreements beneficial or detrimental to developing countries?
• Can economic growth be sustained without harming the environment?
• Is immigration beneficial or detrimental to a country’s economic growth?
• Should governments limit the size of banks and financial institutions?
• Is it necessary for countries to regulate their currency markets?
• Should governments invest in renewable energy sources instead of fossil fuels?
• Should high officials pay more taxes?
• Should students be required to complete a certain number of community service hours to graduate?
• Should school uniforms be mandatory for all public schools?
• Are textbooks becoming obsolete due to technological advances?
• Should the education system focus more on practical subjects such as coding and programming?
• Is the current grading system in public schools fair and effective?
• Is homeschooling a viable alternative to traditional schooling?
• Should standardized testing be abolished from the education system?
• Should teachers receive bonuses for good performance in the classroom?
• Are students more likely to succeed if they attend a private school or university?
• Should all students have access to free college tuition?
• Is using animals in medical research ethical?
• Should parents be allowed to choose their child’s gender?
• Should companies be held responsible for the pollution they create? 
• Are businesses obligated to act ethically when conducting business abroad? 
• Is it ethical to censor content on the internet?
• Should the government enforce stricter regulations on genetically modified food?
• Is it ethical to use artificial intelligence in decision-making processes?
• Should corporations be allowed to have their own private security forces? 
• Are restrictions on freedom of speech necessary for public safety? 
• Do companies have an ethical responsibility to pay fair wages?

Government and Politics 

• Should the government regulate social media?
• Should term limits be placed on members of Congress?
• Are taxes too high in the United States?
• Should voting be mandatory for all citizens?
• Is the Electoral College still relevant today?
• Does the death penalty serve as a deterrent to crime?
• Should the US switch to a single-payer health care system?
• Should there be limits on campaign spending?
• Should the United States adopt a flat tax system?
• Is it time to repeal the Second Amendment?
• Is legalizing marijuana an ethical practice?
• Should parents be allowed to choose the gender of their child? 
• Is it ethical to test medicines on animals? 
• What are the benefits and drawbacks of genetic engineering? 
• Are there any health risks associated with using digital screens too often? 
• Should physical education be mandatory in every school? 
• Is the healthcare system in your country adequate for your needs? 
• Are there any benefits to eating organic food? 
• How does mental health affect physical health? 
• Should vaccinations be mandatory for all children? 
• Was the Spanish Inquisition justified? 
• Were the American Colonists justified in rebelling against Great Britain? 
• Did Christopher Columbus’ discoveries benefit or harm indigenous populations? 
• What effect did Genghis Khan have on world history? 
• Did World War I significantly change the course of history? 
• Was the Treaty of Versailles fair to Germany? 
• Did Napoleon Bonaparte’s rule bring about positive or negative changes for France and Europe? 
• Should the United States annexed the Philippines in 1898? 
• How did the Great Depression shape world history? 
• Is there any validity to the theory of a “clash of civilizations”? 
• Should artificial intelligence be regulated?
• Should autonomous vehicles be allowed on public roads?
• Is the internet making us less social?
• Should research into cloning be banned?
• Are there moral issues related to genetic engineering?
• Should governments fund space exploration programs?
• Are smart home devices making us more vulnerable to cyberattacks?
• Should the government regulate social media use?
• Are robots taking away jobs from humans?
• Should nuclear energy be used as an alternative to fossil fuels?
• Should professional athletes be drug tested?
• Is there a gender gap in sports?
• Should college athletes be paid for their performances?
• Does skill or luck decide the outcome of sports competitions?
• Are sporting events becoming too commercialized? 
• Is it necessary to increase public funding for sporting events?
• Is the use of performance-enhancing drugs in sports cheating or fair?
• Should college students be able to choose their own sports teams?
• Do professional sports hurt young people?
• Should parents allow children to play violent video games?
• Should schools replace textbooks with tablets?
• Are algorithms replacing human decision-making in the workplace?
• Is it time to regulate the use of facial recognition technology?
• Can artificial intelligence and robots be used to improve healthcare outcomes?
• Should autonomous vehicles be allowed on public roads? 
• Should Internet access be a basic human right?
• Should social media platforms do more to protect user privacy?
• Is blockchain technology the future of banking and finance? 
• Are virtual assistants such as Siri and Alexa invading privacy? 
• Can we trust that autonomous weapons system will make ethical decisions in war?

Social Media

Here are a few social media persuasive essay topics. Take a look at them.

• Is social media a positive or negative influence on society?
• Should employers be able to access an employee's social media accounts?
• Should people be allowed to post anonymously online?
• How can parents protect their children from the risks of using social media?
• Does the spread of fake news on social media hurt society?
• Should governments regulate online speech on social media?
• Should employers be allowed to conduct background checks using social media?
• Is the personal data of individuals safe from exploitation by corporate interests on social media platforms?
• Are people spending too much time on their digital devices?
• Is the use of social media by young people making them more isolated?

Controversial Persuasive Essay Topics 

• Should the death penalty be reinstated in all states?
• Should gun control laws be stricter? 
• Is global warming a real threat? 
• Are vaccinations safe for children? 
• Should prostitution be legalized? 
• Should marijuana be made legal? 
• Does school uniform violate personal freedom? 
• Should genetically modified foods be allowed in the market? 
• Should sex education in school be mandatory? 
• Should animal testing be banned?

Fun Persuasive Essay Topics 

• Should cats be allowed to go to school?
• Should people have a minimum number of friends before they can graduate?
• Is it okay to laugh at your own jokes?
• Should parents be required to take parenting classes?
• Are video games the best way to spend free time?
• Should kids be allowed to wear pajamas in public places?
• Should students have to pass a test before they can drive a car?
• Are cell phones essential for teenagers or should they be limited?
• Should everyone learn how to cook their meals?
• Would it be better if all schools had the same uniform?

Argumentative Persuasive Essay Topics 

• Should the electoral college be abolished? 
• Is it ethical to eat meat? 
• Should the internet have censorship? 
• Are genetically modified foods safe for human consumption? 
• Is social media good or bad for society? 
• Should the drinking age be lowered or raised? 
• Should school attendance be mandatory for students? 
• Are video games too violent and negatively influencing children?  
• Should religious education be banned from public schools?

How to Choose a Good Persuasive Essay Topic? 

Choosing a writing topic for your persuasive essay writing is essential. 

The right topic will let you draft an exceptional and well-written essay. Selecting a persuasive essay topic might sound easy, but it can be challenging. 

You cannot randomly start writing a persuasive essay about any topic and expect your essay to be brilliant. 

To select the best topic for your essay, take these essential steps:

1. Know your Interests -   You can only draft an effective essay if you are writing about something that interests you. When you write something you are passionate about, the enthusiasm helps to persuade the readers.

2. Narrow Down Ideas - Make a rough list of the topic of your interest. Then, analyze all the issues and identify topics you think you can present well.

3. Pick your Stance - Now that you know the information is sufficient on a topic, decide your stance. Pick a side to support with evidence and logic. 

4. Controversy is the Best Policy - People love to read about controversial stuff. It is more likely that the readers will go through the entire essay to ease their curiosity. 

After passing your ideas through these filters, you will have a strong and arguable topic to draft an essay on.

Tips for Writing a Compelling Persuasive Essay 

Whether you are in school, college, or university, crafting an effective persuasive essay can be difficult.

Fortunately, with a few tips and tricks, you can create a compelling, persuasive essay that will make your readers take notice. 

Here are six tips to help you write a compelling, persuasive essay:

1. Choose Your Topic Carefully

You need to select a relevant and interesting topic for your audience. Make sure you feel passionate about it and can present it logically and convincingly.

2. Do Extensive Research

Before beginning your essay, research your topic as much as possible. So you can present both sides of the argument in an informed, balanced way.

3. Identify Your Audience

 Before writing your persuasive essay, consider who will be reading it and their interests. 

This will help you write in a language that resonates with them and ensure that your arguments suit their understanding.

4. Use Logical Arguments

It is important to provide logical and compelling arguments to be persuasive. Make sure you use facts, statistics, and other evidence to make your points more convincing.

5. Structure Your Essay Well

An effective persuasive essay should be well-organized. Divide it into an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. 

Pay attention to the structure of your essay, as it can help you make your points more effectively.

Learn how to make a perfect persuasive essay outline with the help of our blog. 

6. Make It Engaging

An engaging, persuasive essay will capture your audience’s attention from beginning to end. 

Use various techniques to make your essay interesting and engaging, such as using examples, analogies, and persuasive language.

We hope you are inspired by our comprehensive list of topics. Pick up a topic that entices you and start working on it. By following these amazing tips and tricks, you can surely compose an essay that will wow your professor.

Still not sure how to draft a perfect essay? Well, leave it to us. Our essay writing service helps you craft your argument in the most effective way possible to get the desired results.

 Don't let yourself get overwhelmed with the process! Trust our professional persuasive essay writer. 

Let CollegeEssay.org's best essay writing service guide you on your journey and take your writing to the next level. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can i choose a good persuasive essay topic.

When selecting a persuasive essay topic, consider an issue that is interesting to you and has two or more opposing viewpoints. Research various resources about the topic to gain a better perspective

What strategies can I use for writing a persuasive essay?

When writing a persuasive essay, establish facts from reliable sources to support your argument. Be concise but thorough, and use persuasive language to strengthen your argument.

How can I make my persuasive essay stand out?

To make your persuasive essay stand out, use vivid language and strong, specific evidence to support each point. Make sure all sources are current and relevant to the argument being made. With these elements, your persuasive essay will stand out from the rest!

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112 Persuasive Speech Topics That Are Actually Engaging

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

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

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

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

Choose Something You’re Passionate About

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

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

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

Steer Clear of Cliches

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

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

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

Have a Clear Side of Opposition

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

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

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

Environment

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

Science & Technology

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

Social Media

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

Parenting & Family

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

Entertainment

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

Arts & Humanities

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

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

Do Your Research

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

Understand Your Audience

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

Have Someone Read Your Speech

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

Practice Makes Perfect

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

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

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

180 Persuasive Essay Topics

and phrasing them in a way that appeals to people and changes their mind. 

If you’ve ever been in an argument, discussion, debate, or verbal fight with someone and felt like the other person isn’t making sense, you know that persuasiveness isn’t a skill everyone has. That’s why learning how to write a persuasive essay is important and taught in school. In this article, you’ll learn how to choose good persuasive essay topics and find lists of persuasive essay topics to inspire you!

If you struggle with writing a persuasive essay, don't worry - Studyfy has got you covered! Our team of expert essay writers can provide you with a custom essay writing service tailored to your needs, ensuring that your essay is not only persuasive but also well-written and well-researched. Let us help you impress your professor and achieve the grades you deserve!

What Is a Persuasive Essay?

A persuasive essay is an academic writing assignment that asks a student to use logic, facts, emotional appeals, and reasoning to sway the opinion of the reader. It’s a very common writing assignment because it tests critical thinking ability as well as the ability to present arguments and write convincingly. 

To make things clear, let’s use an example. An essay about gaming in the early 2000s wouldn’t be considered a persuasive essay because there is nothing to convince the reader about. On the other hand, an essay about why storytelling in games has improved since the early 2000s would be considered a persuasive essay because you are making an argument. 

People often confuse persuasive essays and argumentative essays, but there are two main differences. An argumentative essay discusses both sides of an issue and then agrees with one whereas a persuasive essay focuses more on the side the author agrees with. An argumentative essay also relies more heavily on facts to make an argument whereas a persuasive essay leans on the author’s opinions.

What Is a Good Persuasive Essay Topic?

People have differing opinions about everything, but that doesn’t mean that anything can be a great persuasive essay topic! A good topic is important for any essay, but especially for persuasive essays because the goal is to convince people to agree with your viewpoint. 

This leads to the most important thing about a good persuasive topic - it has to be something you genuinely care about and are interested in. Genuine passion comes across in writing, and when the goal is persuading people, passion is vital. You’ll also enjoy the research more and have to do less of it.

Remember that though a persuasive essay relies more on your opinions, it does require some facts to help add weight to your arguments. So make sure that there is some research or information you can cite to back up your claim.

Just because you think a topic is fascinating doesn’t mean that everyone else will as well. Think about who the audience is that you’re writing the essay for and choose a topic that they would find engaging as well. 

A topic that’s broad might have too much information to go through or be difficult to make a convincing argument about. Think about how long your essay is going to be and choose a topic that you can cover in that word count. 

If you keep these things in mind, you’ll end up with a topic that will lead to a high scoring essay!

Choose a Topic for a Persuasive Essay

Now that you understand how important it is to choose good topics for a persuasive essay and what makes a topic good, you should be able to figure out what kinds of things you want to write about. Still, it’s not easy to pinpoint an exact topic, so down below you’ll find 180 topics to write a persuasive essay on separated into several categories. Use these to inspire you!

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Persuasive Essay Topics for Middle School

12 middle school persuasive essay topics perfect for young adults!

Why you should have a later bedtime

Sleepovers are a positive way to form connections outside of school

Makeup should not be allowed for children under the age of 15

Bullying is worse online than offline

Teachers have a responsibility to help with mental health

Why I should be taken more seriously

Should young teens be allowed to vote on certain issues like climate change?

Why MrBeast is a good role model

Gaming is an educational way to spend free time

Sports are overrated 

What I would change about the educational system

The best way to spend a weekend

Persuasive Essay Topic for College

12 persuasive essay topics for college and issues important to college students.

University students should be given more mental healthcare options

Most people don’t end up working in a field related to their major

The most useful thing in university is building a network

Student protests are a powerful force for change

Fraternities and Sororities are divisive

Attending class is irrelevant if you do all the reading

College educations are overpriced

Remote learning is more effective for some students than in-class learning

The government should do more to help with student debt

Religious colleges provide a higher quality of education

Why a certain college is the best in the state

There should be more choice in what classes a student can pick

High School Persuasive Essay Topics

12 persuasive essay topics for high school and life for teenagers

Student council is just a popularity contest

Teachers should do more to stop bullying

School dances cause more harm than good

Cooking is a life skill that everyone should learn

Why your favorite video game is the best 

Healthy food should cost less than junk food

Dress codes are too strict 

Why you should do an exchange program

Why reading is better than watching something

The biggest changes that need to happen in your high school

Favoritism plays a big role in the grades students get

There should be more extracurricular activities in high school

Persuasive Essay Topics for Kids

12 fun topics to inspire children’s imaginations.

Why your favorite cartoon is better than others

School should start later in the morning

Having siblings is more fun than being an only child

Every class should be held outdoors at least twice a week

There should be more videogames for girls

Robots will make life better for humans

Students should give an evaluation of their teachers every year

Ironman would beat Batman in a fight 

There should be more field trips every year 

Children should not be forced to do chores

Cursive writing doesn’t need to be taught anymore

What is the best pet?

Did you like our inspiring Persuasive Essay Topic Ideas?

For more help, tap into our pool of professional writers and get expert essay editing services!

Controversial Persuasive Essay Topics

Controversy is natural when trying to convince someone. Be careful when writing a controversial essay! Make sure you keep your audience in mind and choose a topic that won’t offend them too much. 

Society still has a very backward conception of mental illness

Men and women are not equal in every way but should be treated the same

Religious extremism is just a form of free speech

Big technology companies know too much about you 

Books should never be censored or banned

CEOs make too much money 

Creationism should not be taught in government funded schools

Racism is worse in Europe than in America

Social media makes mental illness worse

Magazines should clearly state which photos have been edited

The emphasis on happiness in the last decade has led to more depression

People should be judged on what they say as well as what they do

Argumentative Persuasive Essay Topics

Remember to present both sides evenly and use logic and facts as well as your opinions to make a convincing argument. Here are 12 persuasive argument essay topics to debate. 

Men should get paid paternity leave

Cheating in romantic relationships is more common than previously believed

Solving global issues will help developed countries as well

Celebrities should be held to higher moral standards

Should countries only have one official language?

Conscription is against basic human rights

Energy drinks should be more regulated

Should shopping addiction be considered a psychological disorder?

Social media companies need to do a better job policing posts

Countries should not be held responsible for actions they did more than 50 years ago

The legal voting age should be the same as the drinking age

The government has the right to censor specific internet websites

Research Persuasive Essay Topics

12 topics for persuasive essay that require a fair amount of research to craft a convincing argument. 

The economic recession caused by COVID-19 is worse than the great depression

Gene therapy is going to change the way humanity exists

Technological advancements in the 19th century have left a deep impact on the world today

Texting while driving is more dangerous than drunk driving

Walking is the best form of exercise for people over 50 

Video games were harder in the 1990s 

The economy of ancient Greece was very sophisticated

Driving is the most dangerous form of transportation

Athletes have been paid highly since antiquity

There is no way to find a cure-all cancer treatment

The price of high-quality art will always increase

Stock markets need to be more regulated

Sports Persuasive Essay Topics

Whether you’re an athlete or a fan, sports awaken passion! Here are 12 great persuasive essay topics.

Sports have a cult-like following in modern America

Student athletes should be paid 

Sports culture promotes negative male stereotypes of ultra masculinity

Professional sports commentators should all have played the sport

Why football (soccer)  is the most popular sport in the world 

Popular sports movies have a large impact on the number of athletes produced

There is too much pressure put on young Olympic athletes

E-sports will become more popular than traditional sports in 10 years

Boardgames should also be considered sports

Tag can be considered the first sport played by humans

Treating athletes have led to many medical breakthroughs

Sports are placed too high on the scale of social importance

Animal Persuasive Essay Topics

We share our planet with millions of types of creatures, here are 12 persuasive essay topics ideas about them.

People should only be allowed to hunt if they eat the animal they kill

Who should be saved if the choice is between your pet and a human stranger?

Do animals feel emotions?

You are a hypocrite if you only care about cute animals

Humans have the right to control animal populations

There should not be any taboos about what animals people eat 

Is there a moral obligation to adopt a pet rather than buy a pure breed?

There is no such thing as a natural pet since humans have been selectively breeding them for millennia

Why pigs are considered smarter than a 2-year-old human

There are different kinds of intelligence in the animal kingdom

Robotics will advance based on the study of animal movement

Should humans tame wild animals like lions and tigers?

Medical Persuasive Essay Topics

People have differing opinions on important matters and medicine is literally life or death, 

Here are an example of persuasive essay topics related to medicine 

There should be more government funding for research into alternative medicine

Healing crystals work if you believe in them

Psychedelic substances should be made available for mental health treatments

Genetic engineering and gene therapy are against religion

Should doctors be able to do certain procedures without informed consent?

Pharmaceutical companies should price life-saving drugs at cost

Medical research should be done by governments rather than private companies

Medical smartphone applications are the future of healthcare

Doctors need to be better trained in bedside manner

Surgeons tend to overprescribe surgical solutions

Medical tourism is only going to increase with time

Is laughter really beneficial to human health?

Fun Persuasive Essay Topics

12 essay topics that are fun to think about, fun to research, and fun to write!

Why the beach is better than mountains as a vacation destination

Superman is a boring superhero

Science fiction is going to become the dominant genre in media

Horror movies reflect the biggest societal problems of the time

You should date at least 10 people before getting into a new relationship

Becoming a social media influencer is a valid career choice

Can money buy happiness?

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles will always be relevant

Diversity makes music better today than in the past

Minecraft is lego for the internet era

You can learn anything you want to on YouTube

Instagram will develop into a super app with unlimited features

Environmental Persuasive Essay Topics

The environment is one of the hot button topics in the world, everyone should have an opinion. Here are 12 topics to inspire your essay.

The human impact on the planet is insignificant

Only native plants should be grown in home gardens

Snorkeling and scuba diving negatively impact local ecosystems

Buying fewer new clothes impacts the environment significantly

Why weather forecasting is so imprecise

Erosion is the biggest threat to agriculture

More animals should be placed on the endangered species list 

Being in nature has recorded benefits for health

Cow hugging reduces stress levels

The coffee industry is exploitative

Recycling should be mandatory and punishable

New sustainable technologies should be shared around the world at cost

Psychology Persuasive Essay Topics

Psychology is endlessly fascinating as well as extremely complicated, so here are 12 topics on the subject to think about.

There are too many conflicting schools of psychology

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is the most effective form of treatment

There are huge cultural differences in psychological phenomena

Psychological research done only in America can not be generalized to all of humanity

Why do humans feel the need to belong to groups

Why love is the most powerful human emotion

Emotional intelligence is more important for predicting happiness than SAT scores

Freud was right about some concepts but wrong about others

What is the impact of social media on depression 

A course in psychology should be made mandatory in high school

People think they are given more attention than they actually are

Being physically attractive can cause psychological harm

Our Top Persuasive Essay Topics  

12 popular persuasive essay topics that everyone can, should, and probably do have an opinion about. 

Teachers should have to pass a test in their field every 5 years

Living in a globalized world poses unique challenges to young people 

Choose and defend your favorite media personality 

How can people be held accountable for their actions on the internet?

Gaming is going to become a driver of technological advancement

The importance of social skills is declining 

Population sizes will stabilize by 2050

Humans have had a positive impact on some aspects of the environment

Young people will start enjoying in-person activities like board games again

Friendship has become a different concept than it was 30 years ago

Travelling broadens the mind in many different ways 

Meditation is the best way to reduce stress

Some More Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics

12 persuasive essay topic ideas that are just plain fascinating. 

Atheists are just as moral as theists

Religion and faith will always have an important place in human societies

Aliens probably exist based on the size of the universe

We are currently living in the best time of humanity despite all the problems around us

Music tastes are set in young adulthood and rarely change

Is it possible that ghosts exist but not everywhere in the world?

Some things should not be joked about no matter what 

The United Nations should be replaced with a more effective organization

Everyone involved in politics is a narcissist 

Dragons exist in many cultures around the world because people had to explain dinosaur fossils

Intermittent fasting is the healthiest way to lose weight

What side do you fall on in the nature vs nurture debate?

Choosing the right topic to write a persuasive essay on can make the writing process both easy and fun! Make sure that the topic is something your passionate about, you know something about, appeals to your target audience, is broad enough to research but narrow enough to cover fully, and you’ll have the perfect topic. If you found a topic that inspired you from the topic examples, great! If you need any more services by paper writing service coursework writing , admission essay writing service , the experts at Studyfy can help you with not just picking a topic, but with all elements of your persuasive essay.

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• 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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40 Engaging Topics and Essential Tips for Your University Persuasive Essay

Table of contents

The stage is set. It's time to step up your academic game as you face the intriguing yet challenging task of writing a persuasive essay at the university level. This isn't merely an assignment, it's an opportunity to showcase your critical thinking, articulate your viewpoints, and influence minds.

The choice of topic can be an uphill battle, often seeming as perplexing as navigating through an intricate labyrinth. The key is to choose a topic that sparks interest, ignites your passion, and presents a challenge worthy of your skills.

Your chosen topic will pave the way for your essay, determining the strength of your argument and the impression you leave on your readers. The power of persuasion lies in choosing a topic that encapsulates your perspective and can sway your readers to see through your lens.

In this post, we're your trusted allies, arming you with an arsenal of 40 riveting persuasive essay topics for university students. We're here to ensure that you step into this challenge fully prepared and poised for success.

40 University Persuasive Essay Topic Ideas

The following list presents a diverse collection of persuasive essay topics grouped into four categories – social issues, environmental matters, technological advances, and educational policies and reforms. Remember, each topic demands a compelling argument and a persuasive tone. So, let's get right into it!

Social Issues:

• Should Voting be Made Compulsory?
• The Impact of Fake News on Political Stability
• Is There a Place for Censorship in a Democratic Society?
• Freedom of Speech vs. Hate Speech: Where Should We Draw the Line?
• The Influence of Celebrities on Political Opinions
• The Effect of Violent Video Games on Teenagers' Behavior
• The Role of Social Media in Political Campaigns
• Overpopulation: Myth or Serious Global Issue?
• The Pros and Cons of Legalizing Prostitution
• Do Beauty Contests Perpetuate Unrealistic Standards of Beauty?

Environmental Matters:

• Renewable Energy: Is It Sustainable for Global Economy?
• The Impact of Climate Change on Global Economy
• Are Space Explorations Worth the Huge Investments?
• Veganism and its Impact on Personal Health
• The Ethics of Using Animals for Clinical Trials
• The Influence of Mass Media on Body Image Issues
• Genetic Engineering: Playing God or Progressing Science?
• Mandatory Vaccinations: Public Health vs. Personal Liberty
• Privatization of Healthcare: Beneficial or Detrimental?
• The Role of Sports in Promoting Mental Health

Technological Advances:

• Social Media: Boon or Bane for Mental Health?
• AI and Robotics: Threat or Opportunity for Job Market?
• The Role of Online Education in Modern Society
• Cyberbullying: The Invisible Threat of the Digital Age
• Are Traditional Classrooms Becoming Obsolete in the Digital Age?
• The Role of Video Games in Developing Problem-Solving Skills
• The Influence of Westernization on Eastern Cultures
• Is Multitasking More Productive or Destructive?
• The Impact of Reality TV on Societal Values
• Do Modern Workplace Policies Adequately Support Work-Life Balance?

Educational Policies and Reforms:

• Should Universities Implement Unisex Dormitories?
• The Necessity of Mandatory Community Service for Students
• The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Education
• The Significance of Teaching Financial Literacy in Schools
• The Merits and Drawbacks of Homeschooling
• Should Colleges and Universities Be Free for Everyone?
• Gun Control Policies and Their Effect on Crime Rates
• Capital Punishment: A Necessary Evil or an Outdated Practice?
• The Feasibility of Universal Basic Income
• The Role of Video Games in Promoting Problem-Solving Skills

The choice of your topic lays the groundwork for your persuasive essay, so make sure it reflects your conviction and sparks your intellectual curiosity.

The Art of Picking the Right Topic for Your University Essay

With a vast universe of topics to choose from, selecting just one can be a Herculean task. But don't worry! Your choice should ultimately hinge on your interests and the depth of your knowledge. The key is to find a topic that piques your interest while also resonating with your audience. Here are some useful tips on picking the right topic for your persuasive essay.

Identify Your Interest : Choose a topic that genuinely excites you. Writing about something you are passionate about often makes the process more enjoyable and the arguments more compelling.

Understand Your Audience : Consider the audience you are writing for. What issues would they find relevant and compelling? Tailor your topic accordingly to make your argument more impactful.

Scope for Debate : Opt for a topic with sufficient scope for argument. Remember, the essence of a persuasive essay is to convince your audience about a particular point of view.

Research Potential : Check the research potential of the topic. Can you find enough valid sources to support your argument? Topics that lack solid evidence could result in a weak argument.

Controversy is Good : Controversial topics are often the best choice for persuasive essays. They naturally invite debate and offer different perspectives to consider.

Once you've picked your topic, take some time to outline your argument, gather evidence, and prepare a compelling essay. Remember, it's not just about what you say; it's about how convincingly you say it.

How to Craft a Persuasive Argument in Your Essay

Crafting a persuasive argument is an art, a delicate blend of logic, emotion, and credibility. The goal is to convince your audience to embrace your point of view. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you construct an irresistible argument.

Understand Your Topic : Having an in-depth understanding of your topic is the first step. Research extensively and make sure you grasp all aspects of the issue. This will not only make your argument more compelling but also equip you to handle counter-arguments.

State Your Thesis Clearly : Your thesis is the central argument of your essay. It should be concise, clear, and assertive. This statement guides your essay and sets the tone for your argument.

Use Solid Evidence : Provide substantial evidence to support your thesis. Use credible sources and include facts, statistics, and expert opinions. Remember, the strength of your argument relies heavily on the quality of your evidence.

Appeal to Logic and Emotions : Use logical reasoning to structure your argument, but don't forget to appeal to the emotions of your reader. Engage them emotionally to make your argument more compelling.

Address Counterarguments : Acknowledge potential counterarguments and refute them convincingly. This shows you've considered all angles and further strengthens your argument.

Conclude with Strength : Your conclusion should reinforce your argument and leave a lasting impression. Summarize your main points, restate your thesis, and close with a thought-provoking statement.

REMEMBER : a persuasive argument is more than just a collection of facts. It's a strategic and nuanced presentation of those facts designed to convince your reader to see things from your perspective.

The Role of Professional Writers and How They Can Assist With University Essays

Professional writers play a pivotal role in shaping a persuasive essay that strikes the right chord with the audience. They possess the necessary skills and expertise to craft compelling arguments, present them coherently, and sway the readers' viewpoint. Their proficiency in avoiding common pitfalls and their adaptability to various writing styles provide an edge that often results in a well-rounded and impactful essay.

Writers Per Hour, a reputable essay writing service , is an excellent resource in this regard. Offering a gamut of services, our team of writers can help you with university essays at all stages, right from the process of topic selection to the final execution of the essay. We operate with a soft approach, understanding your specific needs, and provide tailored solutions that adhere to your academic level and deadlines.

Remember, persuasive essay writing doesn't have to be a daunting task when you have the right assistance. Whether you need help in choosing a topic or writing an essay from scratch, we are here to simplify the process.

Navigating through the ocean of persuasive essay topics and determining the one that best fits your interests and academic objectives can indeed be an intricate task. However, this extensive journey through our essay topics should have made this voyage more navigable.

Remember, choosing the right topic is just the starting point. The art of crafting an effective argument, avoiding common pitfalls, and overcoming challenges are equally paramount to delivering a persuasive essay that stands out.

Should you ever feel the need for expert assistance, don't forget that at Writers Per Hour, you can order a great persuasive essay online 24/7.

Additional Resources

To cement your persuasive essay writing skills and deepen your understanding of the process, here are some additional resources that you should explore:

Posts from Writers Per Hour Blog :

• Easy Steps to Writing a Persuasive Essay
• 25 Persuasive Essay Topics That Will Captivate High School Students
• Crafting Compelling Arguments with Rhetorical Devices in Persuasive Essays

External Resources :

Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL) : A comprehensive resource offering advice on various aspects of writing persuasive essays, including organization, argument strategies, and grammar.

Harvard College Writing Center : Explore their resources on essay structure and developing a thesis to ensure your persuasive essay is logically organized and effectively supports your argument.

The University of North Carolina’s Writing Center : Their handouts on argument writing are invaluable for developing and structuring your persuasive argument.

EasyBib’s Guide to Persuasive Essays : This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough of the entire writing process for a persuasive essay.

Remember, mastering the art of persuasive essay writing is a journey, not a destination. It requires time, practice, and patience. But always keep in mind that if you ever find yourself needing assistance, Writers Per Hour is here to help.

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75 Persuasive Essay Topic Ideas

The persuasive essay is one type of writing that you will likely come across in your academic career. A persuasive essay, if you're unfamiliar, is one in which you have to make an argument. You need to choose a side and prove why you're correct by using hard evidence and convincing language. The idea is that you want to convince the reader that your argument is the right one, so you'll definitely want to pick a topic that you're passionate about and something that you'll get excited about researching and writing. This exercise is designed so that you can clearly articulate your opinion and understand why it's important to have evidence to back up your claim.

Your teacher or instructor will probably have specific guidelines on what your essay should entail, but you might have a little bit of free reign on what kinds of topics you can explore and argue about in your essay. With so many things to argue about and for, it might be a little overwhelming to come up with a topic on your own. When you feel like you're stuck on brainstorming ideas, take a look at the following list of 75 persuasive essay topics. You may find something you can use, or something you can adapt for the specific guidelines of your paper. Happy writing!

Educational persuasive essay topics

There are so many things that can be discussed when it comes to education. In our country (and globally), there are many different opinions on how education should be handled and what tactics teachers or academic administrators should use. Here are a few topics on education (which could be expanded or changed to fit your teacher's guidelines) that might be of interest to you.

• Should soda be offered in school cafeterias?
• Should schools teach abstinence-only education?
• Why should schools teach financial literacy?
• Do all students need to go to college?
• Should students take a gap year after high school?
• Do all students need to learn a foreign language?
• Is online or homeschool an effective way to learn?
• Should standardized tests determine whether or not you go on to another grade level?
• Should all students be required to participate in the arts?
• Should a college education be free?
• Should high school journalists be protected under the First Amendment?
• Some universities just have pass/fail grades instead of letter grades. How do you feel about this?
• Should teachers/professors be unbiased in the classroom?
• Should you still learn cursive in elementary school? What are the disadvantages/ advantages?
• Many college campuses have speakers come in occasionally. These speakers can range in political opinion and some can be controversial. Should you let speakers come to schools that have controversial rhetoric or ideas to uphold free speech?

Political persuasive essay topics

They say that you should never talk about politics or religion because it's not polite. But in a persuasive essay, that rule is completely extinguished. Politics and religion are hotbed subjects for a reason—because so many people have radically different ideas of how a society and a country should operate. What side of these political persuasive topics are you on? Take a stab at one of these and the paper will likely fly out onto the keyboard.

• Should protesters be allowed to block traffic? Do they pose a threat to public safety?
• Why should you vote?
• Should same-sex marriage be legal?
• What is your opinion on protecting religious liberties?
• What is your opinion on separating church and state?
• Why has the country become so divided politically over the past few years? Can it be fixed?
• Many industries (like coal and manufacturing) are tough to find a job in and many Americans are out of work. How should we solve this problem?
• Should citizens under 18 be able to vote?
• Should a National Voter ID law be passed to avoid voter fraud?
• What does the phrase "fake news" mean?
• Local newspapers are dwindling. What should be done, if anything, about this problem?
• Should local municipalities do more to combat global warming? If so, how?
• How should we reduce the threat of terrorism in the United States?
• Females have traditionally lower participation in politics. Why do you think that is?
• Some people say that the top 1% of earners don't pay enough taxes. How do you feel about this?
• Will a huge wall on the southern border with Mexico solve the United States' immigration problem?
• How should we solve the United States' immigration problem?
• The voter turnout for the 2016 presidential election was less than 60%, which is much lower than in other democratic societies. Why do you think this is and what can be done about it (or should anything be done about it)?
• Millennials are graduating college with a lot of student loan debt. What should be done to avoid a debt crisis?
• Many say that minimum wage jobs are low skill and the workers in them shouldn't be compensated more for their work, but others claim that a minimum wage job isn't enough money to live off of. Which side do you land on?
• What do you think of celebrities who are vocal about environmental issues but who frequently fly on private, and not commercial, jets?

Crime and legal persuasive essay topics

Crime in any society is an unfortunate inevitability. Why does crime happen and what should be done about it? These are just a few of the things to explore in these crime/legal persuasive essay topics.

• What should we do about a city with a high crime rate like Chicago?
• Should guns be allowed on college campuses?
• Should gun laws be more restrictive?
• Do we have a right to privacy?
• Trends have shown that many recent terrorists have been convicted or accused of domestic violence. What should be done and how do you feel about this?
• Should we have the death penalty? If so, when should it be used?
• Many prisoners are incarcerated for minor drug charges (such as possession of drugs or drug paraphernalia). Should we try to rehabilitate these prisoners or should they serve their full sentences?
• Colorado has legalized marijuana for recreational purposes. What is your opinion of this?
• Do you think marijuana is a gateway drug which leads some users to harder drugs?
• Can criminals be rehabilitated?
• Many prisoners who enter the system are likely to have a high recurrence of criminal activity. What can be done to solve this?
• Many people are starting to use drones for recreational activity. Should there be restrictions on where and how you can use your personal drone?
• Self-driving cars are expected to become increasingly used on city roads. If a self-driving car gets into an accident, whose fault is it? The engineer's?

Health persuasive essay topics

Health is something that we all have to worry about. Whether it's our own health or the health of a loved one, there are many things to think about and research on. What's your opinion on the healthcare system in our country? Should we treat drug addiction like a disease? How should we handle end-of-life care? Try out one of these essay topics to research and gain insight on some of the biggest challenges and questions that our society faces when it comes to health.

• Opioid addiction is at an all-time high in states like Ohio. What should we do to combat this?
• Should healthcare be universal?
• How do you feel about paternity leave?
• Should women get guaranteed maternity leave?
• The state of California requires that you display nutrition facts about menu items in restaurants. Should all states do this?
• Should fast food be "sin taxed" like cigarettes are?
• There is an effort to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. Should we do this or not? If we should, what improvements can be made to a replacement act?
• Many soldiers are coming back from warfare with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. What should we do to help them?
• Many Americans are overweight. What has caused this health crisis and what can be done about it?
• Should vitamins and supplements be more tightly regulated?
• Should health insurance companies provide more financial incentives for subscribers to work out and eat more healthfully?

Women's and gender persuasive essay topics

Are there inherent differences between men and women or is that just a societal myth? Women have gained a lot more rights over the last 100 years in America, but some say they still have a long way to go before they achieve equal rights. How do you feel about this and other women's and gender issues? Explore the following fascinating topics.

• Women have what is known as the "second shift" (meaning that as soon as they get home from work they have additional responsibilities that require their attention immediately). What do you think about this concept and should anything be done about it?
• There are many women's rights and minority rights advocates. Should there be men's rights advocacy groups? What about Caucasian advocacy groups?
• Some people say that gender is a socially constructed norm. What do you think?
• Women who participate in body building competitions are trying to build the "ideal" figure, which some claim is an outdated, sexist idea. But some argue that building muscles is considered a sport and a traditionally "masculine" idea. Which side do you agree with?
• Some people think that beauty pageants are outdated and anti-feminist and shouldn't be televised anymore. How do you feel?
• New wave feminism is the idea that feminism can encompass many different ideas of what it is to be a feminist. It's the idea that you can have choices (whether that's staying at home with children or trying to be a CEO). How do you feel about new wave feminism?

Miscellaneous persuasive essay topics

Of course, there are more categories of essay topics than what are listed above. Here are some additional essay topics if you haven't found one yet that captures your interest.

• Does social media improve or hurt our society?
• Is it important or frivolous to travel the world?
• Many Americans watch a lot of reality TV shows. Why do you think this is?
• With many people reading digital copies of books, are libraries necessary anymore?
• Should anything be done to curb the rise in offensive lyrics in music?
• Should pregnant women be allowed to park in handicapped parking spots?
• Recent studies have shown that pets improve the mental and the physical health of their owners. Should pet-related expenses be tax-deductible?
• What do you think about net neutrality?
• With the rise in selfies and Instagram photo filtering apps, do you think we have become a more self-obsessed society?

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160 Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Students in 2024

April 3, 2024

The skill of writing an excellent argumentative essay is a crucial one for every high school or college student to master. In sum, argumentative essays teach students how to organize their thoughts logically and present them in a convincing way. This skill is helpful not only for those pursuing degrees in law , international relations , or public policy , but for any student who wishes to develop their critical thinking faculties. In this article, we’ll cover what makes a good argument essay and offer several argumentative essay topics for high school and college students. Let’s begin!

What is an Argumentative Essay?

An argumentative essay is an essay that uses research to present a reasoned argument on a particular subject . As with the persuasive essay , the purpose of an argumentative essay is to sway the reader to the writer’s position. However, a strong persuasive essay makes its point through diligent research and emotion while a strong argumentative essay should be based solely on facts, not feelings.

Moreover, each fact should be supported by clear evidence from credible sources . Furthermore, a good argumentative essay will have an easy-to-follow structure. When organizing your argumentative essay, use this format as a guide:

• Introduction
• Supporting body paragraphs
• Paragraph(s) addressing common counterarguments

Argumentative Essay Format

In the introduction , the writer presents their position and thesis statement —a sentence that summarizes the paper’s main points. The body paragraphs then draw upon supporting evidence to back up this initial statement, with each paragraph focusing on its own point. The length of your paper will determine the amount of examples you need. In general, you’ll likely need at least two to three. Additionally, your examples should be as detailed as possible, citing specific research, case studies, statistics, or anecdotes.

In the counterargument paragraph , the writer acknowledges and refutes opposing viewpoints. Finally, in the conclusion , the writer restates the main argument made in the thesis statement and summarizes the points of the essay. Additionally, the conclusion may offer a final proposal to persuade the reader of the essay’s position.

How to Write an Effective Argumentative Essay, Step by Step

• Choose your topic. Use the list below to help you pick a topic. Ideally, a good argumentative essay topic will be meaningful to you—writing is always stronger when you are interested in the subject matter. In addition, the topic should be complex with plenty of “pro” and “con” arguments. Avoid choosing a topic that is either widely accepted as fact or too narrow. For example, “Is the earth round?” would not be a solid choice.
• Research. Use the library, the web, and any other resources to gather information about your argumentative essay topic. Research widely but smartly. As you go, take organized notes, marking the source of every quote and where it may fit in the scheme of your larger essay. Moreover, remember to look for (and research) possible counterarguments.
• Outline . Using the argument essay format above, create an outline for your essay. Then, brainstorm a thesis statement covering your argument’s main points, and begin to put your examples in order, focusing on logical flow. It’s often best to place your strongest example last.
• Write . Draw on your research and outline to create a first draft. Remember, your first draft doesn’t need to be perfect. (As Voltaire says, “Perfect is the enemy of good.”) Accordingly, just focus on getting the words down on paper.
• Does my thesis statement need to be adjusted?
• Which examples feel strongest? Weakest?
• Do the transitions flow smoothly?
• Do I have a strong opening paragraph?
• Does the conclusion reinforce my argument?

Tips for Revising an Argument Essay

Evaluating your own work can be difficult, so you might consider the following strategies:

• Read your work aloud to yourself.
• Record yourself reading your paper, and listen to the recording.
• Reverse outline your paper. Firstly, next to each paragraph, write a short summary of that paragraph’s main points/idea. Then, read through your reverse outline. Does it have a logical flow? If not, where should you adjust?
• Print out your paper and cut it into paragraphs. What happens when you rearrange the paragraphs?

Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle School, High School, and College Students

Family argumentative essay topics.

• Should the government provide financial incentives for families to have children to address the declining birth rate?
• Should we require parents to provide their children with a certain level of nutrition and physical activity to prevent childhood obesity?
• Should parents implement limits on how much time their children spend playing video games?
• Should cell phones be banned from family/holiday gatherings?
• Should we hold parents legally responsible for their children’s actions?
• Should children have the right to sue their parents for neglect?
• Should parents have the right to choose their child’s religion?
• Are spanking and other forms of physical punishment an effective method of discipline?
• Should courts allow children to choose where they live in cases of divorce?
• Should parents have the right to monitor teens’ activity on social media?
• Should parents control their child’s medical treatment, even if it goes against the child’s wishes?
• Should parents be allowed to post pictures of their children on social media without their consent?
• Should fathers have a legal say in whether their partners do or do not receive an abortion?
• Can television have positive developmental benefits on children?
• Should the driving age be raised to prevent teen car accidents?
• Should adult children be legally required to care for their aging parents?

Education Argument Essay Topics

• Should schools ban the use of technology like ChatGPT?
• Are zoos unethical, or necessary for conservation and education?
• To what degree should we hold parents responsible in the event of a school shooting?
• Should schools offer students a set number of mental health days?
• Should school science curriculums offer a course on combating climate change?
• Should public libraries be allowed to ban certain books? If so, what types?
• What role, if any, should prayer play in public schools?
• Should schools push to abolish homework?
• Are gifted and talented programs in schools more harmful than beneficial due to their exclusionary nature?
• Should universities do away with Greek life?
• Should schools remove artwork, such as murals, that some perceive as offensive?
• Should the government grant parents the right to choose alternative education options for their children and use taxpayer funds to support these options?
• Is homeschooling better than traditional schooling for children’s academic and social development?
• Should we require schools to teach sex education to reduce teen pregnancy rates?
• Should we require schools to provide sex education that includes information about both homosexual and heterosexual relationships?
• Should colleges use affirmative action and other race-conscious policies to address diversity on campus?
• Should public schools remove the line “under God” from the Pledge of Allegiance?
• Should college admissions officers be allowed to look at students’ social media accounts?
• Should schools abolish their dress codes, many of which unfairly target girls, LGBTQ students, and students of color?
• Should schools be required to stock free period products in bathrooms?
• Should legacy students receive preferential treatment during the college admissions process?
• Are school “voluntourism” trips ethical?

Government Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should the U.S. decriminalize prostitution?
• Should the U.S. issue migration visas to all eligible applicants?
• Should the federal government cancel all student loan debt?
• Should we lower the minimum voting age? If so, to what?
• Should the federal government abolish all laws penalizing drug production and use?
• Should the U.S. use its military power to deter a Chinese invasion of Taiwan?
• Should the U.S. supply Ukraine with further military intelligence and supplies?
• Should the North and South of the U.S. split up into two regions?
• Should Americans hold up nationalism as a critical value?
• Should we permit Supreme Court justices to hold their positions indefinitely?
• Should Supreme Court justices be democratically elected?
• Is the Electoral College still a productive approach to electing the U.S. president?
• Should the U.S. implement a national firearm registry?
• Is it ethical for countries like China and Israel to mandate compulsory military service for all citizens?
• Should the U.S. government implement a ranked-choice voting system?
• Should institutions that benefited from slavery be required to provide reparations?
• Based on the 1619 project, should history classes change how they teach about the founding of the U.S.?
• Should term limits be imposed on Senators and Representatives? If so, how long?
• Should women be allowed into special forces units?
• Should the federal government implement stronger, universal firearm licensing laws?
• Do public sex offender registries help prevent future sex crimes?
• Should the government be allowed to regulate family size?
• Should all adults legally be considered mandated reporters?
• Should the government fund public universities to make higher education more accessible to low-income students?
• Should the government fund universal preschool to improve children’s readiness for kindergarten?

Health/Bioethics Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should the U.S. government offer its own healthcare plan?
• In the case of highly infectious pandemics, should we focus on individual freedoms or public safety when implementing policies to control the spread?
• Should we legally require parents to vaccinate their children to protect public health?
• Is it ethical for parents to use genetic engineering to create “designer babies” with specific physical and intellectual traits?
• Should the government fund research on embryonic stem cells for medical treatments?
• Should the government legalize assisted suicide for terminally ill patients?
• Should organ donation be mandatory?
• Is cloning animals ethical?
• Should cancer screenings start earlier? If so, what age?
• Is surrogacy ethical?
• Should birth control require a prescription?
• Should minors have access to emergency contraception?
• Should hospitals be for-profit or nonprofit institutions?

Good Argumentative Essay Topics — Continued

Social media argumentative essay topics.

• Should the federal government increase its efforts to minimize the negative impact of social media?
• Do social media and smartphones strengthen one’s relationships?
• Should antitrust regulators take action to limit the size of big tech companies?
• Should social media platforms ban political advertisements?
• Should the federal government hold social media companies accountable for instances of hate speech discovered on their platforms?
• Do apps such as TikTok and Instagram ultimately worsen the mental well-being of teenagers?
• Should governments oversee how social media platforms manage their users’ data?
• Should social media platforms like Facebook enforce a minimum age requirement for users?
• Should social media companies be held responsible for cases of cyberbullying?
• Should the United States ban TikTok?
• Is social media harmful to children?
• Should employers screen applicants’ social media accounts during the hiring process?

Religion Argument Essay Topics

• Should religious institutions be tax-exempt?
• Should religious symbols such as the hijab or crucifix be allowed in public spaces?
• Should religious freedoms be protected, even when they conflict with secular laws?
• Should the government regulate religious practices?
• Should we allow churches to engage in political activities?
• Religion: a force for good or evil in the world?
• Should the government provide funding for religious schools?
• Is it ethical for healthcare providers to deny abortions based on religious beliefs?
• Should religious organizations be allowed to discriminate in their hiring practices?
• Should we allow people to opt out of medical treatments based on their religious beliefs?
• Should the U.S. government hold religious organizations accountable for cases of sexual abuse within their community?
• Should religious beliefs be exempt from anti-discrimination laws?
• Should religious individuals be allowed to refuse services to others based on their beliefs or lifestyles? (As in this famous case .)
• Should the US ban religion-based federal holidays?
• Should public schools be allowed to teach children about religious holidays?

Science Argument Essay Topics

• Would the world be safer if we eliminated nuclear weapons?
• Should scientists bring back extinct animals? If so, which ones?
• Should we hold companies fiscally responsible for their carbon footprint?
• Should we ban pesticides in favor of organic farming methods?
• Should the federal government ban all fossil fuels, despite the potential economic impact on specific industries and communities?
• What renewable energy source should the U.S. invest more money in?
• Should the FDA outlaw GMOs?
• Should we worry about artificial intelligence surpassing human intelligence?
• Should the alternative medicine industry be more stringently regulated?
• Is colonizing Mars a viable option?
• Is the animal testing worth the potential to save human lives?

Sports Argument Essay Topics

• Should colleges compensate student-athletes?
• How should sports teams and leagues address the gender pay gap?
• Should youth sports teams do away with scorekeeping?
• Should we ban aggressive contact sports like boxing and MMA?
• Should professional sports associations mandate that athletes stand during the national anthem?
• Should high schools require their student-athletes to maintain a certain GPA?
• Should transgender athletes compete in sports according to their gender identity?
• Should schools ban football due to the inherent danger it poses to players?
• Should performance-enhancing drugs be allowed in sports?
• Do participation trophies foster entitlement and unrealistic expectations?
• Should sports teams be divided by gender?
• Should professional athletes be allowed to compete in the Olympics?
• Should women be allowed on NFL teams?

Technology Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should sites like DALL-E compensate the artists whose work it was trained on?
• Should the federal government make human exploration of space a more significant priority?
• Is it ethical for the government to use surveillance technology to monitor citizens?
• Should websites require proof of age from their users? If so, what age?
• Should we consider A.I.-generated images and text pieces of art?
• Does the use of facial recognition technology violate individuals’ privacy?
• Is online learning as effective as in-person learning?
• Does computing harm the environment?
• Should buying, sharing, and selling collected personal data be illegal?
• Are electric cars really better for the environment?
• Should car companies be held responsible for self-driving car accidents?
• Should private jets be banned?
• Do violent video games contribute to real-life violence?

Business Argument Essay Topics

• Should the U.S. government phase out the use of paper money in favor of a fully digital currency system?
• Should the federal government abolish its patent and copyright laws?
• Should we replace the Federal Reserve with free-market institutions?
• Is free-market ideology responsible for the U.S. economy’s poor performance over the past decade?
• Will cryptocurrencies overtake natural resources like gold and silver?
• Is capitalism the best economic system? What system would be better?
• Should the U.S. government enact a universal basic income?
• Should we require companies to provide paid parental leave to their employees?
• Should the government raise the minimum wage? If so, to what?
• Should antitrust regulators break up large companies to promote competition?
• Is it ethical for companies to prioritize profits over social responsibility?
• Should gig-economy workers like Uber and Lyft drivers be considered employees or independent contractors?
• Should the federal government regulate the gig economy to ensure fair treatment of workers?
• Should the government require companies to disclose the environmental impact of their products?
• Should companies be allowed to fire employees based on political views or activities?
• Should tipping practices be phased out?
• Should employees who choose not to have children be given the same amount of paid leave as parents?
• Should MLMs (multi-level marketing companies) be illegal?
• Should employers be allowed to factor tattoos and personal appearance into hiring decisions?

In Conclusion – Argument Essay Topics

Using the tips above, you can effectively structure and pen a compelling argumentative essay that will wow your instructor and classmates. Remember to craft a thesis statement that offers readers a roadmap through your essay, draw on your sources wisely to back up any claims, and read through your paper several times before it’s due to catch any last-minute proofreading errors. With time, diligence, and patience, your essay will be the most outstanding assignment you’ve ever turned in…until the next one rolls around.

Looking for more fresh and engaging topics for use in the classroom? You might consider checking out the following:

• 125 Good Debate Topics for High School Students
• 150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics
• 7 Best Places to Study
• Guide to the IB Extended Essay
• How to Write the AP Lang Rhetorical Analysis Essay
• AP Lit Reading List
• How to Write the AP Lang Synthesis Essay
• 49 Most Interesting Biology Research Topics
• High School Success

Lauren Green

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

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• Writing Tips

50 Topics for a Persuasive Speech

5-minute read

• 13th January 2023

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

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

Choosing a Topic

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

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

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

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

Should free speech on the internet be restricted?

At what age should children have access to smartphones?

Does texting hinder interpersonal skills?

Should parents limit their children’s screen time?

Should laws prohibit using devices while driving?

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

Should the number of US Supreme Court Justices be increased?

Should voting be compulsory?

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

Should the electoral college system be abolished?

Should election procedures be standardized in all states?

Should the Senate filibuster be abolished?

Should the death penalty be legal?

Should states be allowed to have different abortion laws?

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

Should the US conduct a voluntary gun buyback program?

Are governments doing enough to address climate change?

Is student loan forgiveness fair?

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

Should plastic bags be banned in grocery stores?

What is the greatest threat to international stability?

What can be done to prevent cyber threats?

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

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

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

Is healthcare a human right?

Should access to abortion be required by healthcare providers?

Do school shooter drills damage students’ mental health?

Should vaccinations be required for students to attend public school?

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

Do school uniforms offer any advantages?

Are school dress codes gender biased?

Are standardized test scores given too much importance in schools?

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

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

Should indigenous languages be taught in schools?

Should immigrants have access to free language classes?

Should books ever be banned in schools?

Should elementary schools be required to teach a foreign language?

Should schools be cellphone free?

Should volunteering before graduation be compulsory?

Should school cafeterias serve more plant-based foods?

Should parents let their children play tackle football?

Should college sports teams receive less money?

Should there be more female priests or pastors of churches?

Should churches and other religious organizations pay taxes?

Should all priests be allowed to marry?

Should prayer be permitted in public schools?

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

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

Persuasion Isn’t All or Nothing

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

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

Step Up with Confidence

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

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101 Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics for Kids and Teens

Use your words to sway the reader.

Persuasive writing is one of those skills that can help students succeed in real life.  Persuasive essays are similar to argumentative , but they rely less on facts and more on emotion to sway the reader. It’s important to know your audience so you can anticipate any counterarguments they might make and try to overcome them. Try reading some mentor texts to show kids great examples of opinion writing. Then use these persuasive essay topics for practice.

School and Education Persuasive Essay Topics

Life and ethics persuasive essay topics, science and technology persuasive essay topics, sports and entertainment persuasive essay topics, just for fun persuasive essay topics.

• Do you think homework should be required, optional, or not given at all?

• Students should/should not be able to use their phones during the school day.
• Should schools have dress codes?
• If I could change one school rule, it would be …
• Is year-round school a good idea?
• Should we stop giving final exams?
• Is it better to be good at academics or good at sports?

• Which is better, private schools or public schools?
• Should every student have to participate in athletics?
• Do you think schools should ban junk food from their cafeterias?
• Should students be required to volunteer in their communities?
• What is the most important school subject?
• Are letter grades helpful, or should we replace them with something else?

• Is it ever OK to cheat on homework or a test?
• Should students get to grade their teachers?
• Do you think college should be free for anyone who wants to attend?
• Should schools be allowed to ban some books from their libraries?
• Which is better, book smarts or street smarts?

• Should all students have to learn a foreign language?
• Are single-gender schools better or worse for students?
• Is it OK to eat animals?
• What animal makes the best pet?
• Visit an animal shelter, choose an animal that needs a home, and write an essay persuading someone to adopt that animal.
• If you find money on the ground, should you try to find the person who lost it, or is it yours to keep?

• Who faces more peer pressure, girls or boys?
• Should all Americans be required to vote?
• Is it better to be kind or truthful?
• Which is better, giving or receiving?
• Is it OK to keep animals in zoos?
• Should we change the minimum driving age in the United States?

• Which is more important, happiness or success?
• Is democracy the best form of government?
• Is social media helpful or harmful?
• Should parents be punished for their children’s mistakes or crimes?
• Should kids have set bedtimes or just go to bed when they’re sleepy?
• Do you think the government should find a way to provide free health care for everyone?

• Is it better to save your allowance or spend it?
• Should we ban plastic bags and bottles?
• Which is better, living in the city or in the country?
• If I could make a new law, it would be …
• Is Pluto a planet?
• Should human cloning be legal?
• Should vaccines be mandatory?
• Is it right for countries to still maintain nuclear weapon arsenals?

• Should testing on animals be made illegal?
• Will expanded use of artificial intelligence be good for humanity?
• Should all people have free Internet access in their homes?
• Is there intelligent life on other planets?
• Does technology create more jobs than it eliminates?
• Should parents use their children’s cell phones to track where they are?
• Should scientists try to develop a way for people to live forever?

• What’s the best type of smartphone: Android or iPhone?
• Which is better, Macs or PCs?
• Do people rely too much on technology in the modern world?
• Should cryptocurrencies replace cash?
• Should there be a minimum age requirement to own a smartphone?
• Is it important to keep spending money on space exploration, or should we use the money for other things?

• Should kids under 13 be allowed to use social media sites?
• Should we ban cigarette smoking and vaping entirely?
• Is it better to be an animal that lives in the water or on land?
• Should kids be allowed to watch TV on school nights?
• Which is better, paper books or e-books?
• Is the current movie rating system (G, PG, PG-13, etc.) effective?
• Are video games better than board games?
• Should we allow little kids to play competitive sports?

• Which is better, reading books or watching TV?
• Does playing violent video games make people more violent in real life?
• Are graphic novels just as valuable as traditional fictional books?
• Should everyone play on the same sports teams, regardless of gender?
• Choose a book that’s been made into a movie. Which was better, the movie or the book?

• Who is the world’s best athlete, present or past?
• Are professional athletes/musicians/actors overpaid?
• Which is better, fiction or nonfiction?
• The best music genre is …
• What is one book that everyone should read?
• What new sport should be added to the Olympics?

• What’s the best video game system?
• Does playing video games make you smarter?
• Does reality TV actually depict real life?
• Should all neighborhoods have free parks and playgrounds?
• What’s the best holiday?
• The very best food of all time is …
• Which is better, artificial Christmas trees or real ones?

• What’s the best season of the year?
• Should you put ketchup on a hot dog?
• Is a taco a sandwich?
• Does fruit count as dessert?
• Should people have to go to school or work on their birthday?
• Are clowns scary or funny?
• Which is more dangerous, werewolves or vampires?

• The best pizza topping is …
• What would be the best superpower to have?
• Should everyone make their bed every day?
• Which came first, the chicken or the egg?
• Should you put pineapple on a pizza?
• Should you eat macaroni and cheese with a spoon or a fork?

• Describe the world’s best ice cream sundae.
• Is Monday the worst day of the week?
• Would you rather travel back in time or forward in time?
• Is it better to be too hot or too cold?
• Are there aliens living among us here on Earth?

What are your favorite persuasive essay topics for students? Come exchange ideas in the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook .

Plus, check out the big list of essay topics for high school (120+ ideas) ..

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Persuasive Essay Topics

• October 24, 2023
• Teaching English

Persuasive Essay Topics. As a writing and speaking teacher, I’ve witnessed countless students embark on the rewarding journey of persuasive communication. One crucial step in this journey is the selection of a compelling topic, the cornerstone of any persuasive essay. Whether you’re a high school student searching for an engaging subject, a college scholar diving into complex issues, or an aspiring writer aiming to captivate diverse audiences, the art of persuasion begins with the right choice of topic. Furthermore, as a teacher, you should include it in your lesson plan .

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll draw upon my experience to offer a curated collection of persuasive essay topics, carefully tailored to various interests and levels of expertise. From the significance of financial literacy in high schools to the ethical considerations of AI in healthcare, we’ll explore an array of subjects to ignite your passion and guide your persuasive writing endeavors. So, let’s embark on this journey together and discover the perfect topic that not only sparks conversations but also empowers you to influence minds and inspire change.

Persuasive Essay Topics: Comprehensive Guide

Possible persuasive writing prompts.

Section 1: Understanding Persuasive Essays

Persuasive essays are a common assignment in schools and universities. They aim to develop critical thinking and persuasive communication skills in students. These essays require you to take a stance on a particular issue or topic and provide compelling arguments to convince the reader of your point of view.

Purpose of Persuasive Essays: The primary goal of a persuasive essay is to persuade or convince the reader to adopt your perspective on a given topic. Whether you’re discussing a social issue, debating a philosophical concept, or presenting an argument related to your field of study, your job is to make a convincing case.

Selecting the Right Topic: One of the critical aspects of writing a persuasive essay is choosing the right topic. Your choice can greatly impact the success of your essay. To select an effective persuasive essay topic, consider the following criteria:

• Relevance: The topic should be current and relevant to your audience’s interests or concerns.
• Interest: You should have a genuine interest in the topic, as this enthusiasm will be reflected in your writing.
• Depth: Ensure the topic has sufficient depth for exploration. It should allow you to present multiple arguments and evidence.
• Audience: Consider the preferences and expectations of your audience. A topic that resonates with them is more likely to be persuasive.

Section 2: Tips for Choosing a Persuasive Essay Topic

Selecting the perfect persuasive essay topic requires careful consideration and creativity. Here are some tips to help you choose a compelling and engaging topic:

1. Relevance: Start by considering current events, societal issues, or subjects directly related to your academic field. A relevant topic is more likely to captivate your readers’ interest.

2. Personal Interest: Choose a topic that genuinely interests you. Your enthusiasm will shine through in your writing and make your arguments more convincing.

3. Depth of Discussion: Ensure the topic has enough depth to explore. It should allow you to present multiple arguments, counterarguments, and supporting evidence. Shallow topics can limit your essay’s persuasiveness.

4. Understanding Your Audience: Consider the preferences and expectations of your audience. A topic that resonates with them is more likely to be persuasive.

5. Research Availability: Check the availability of credible sources and research material related to your chosen topic. A well-researched essay is more persuasive.

6. Uniqueness: If possible, opt for a unique or less-explored perspective on a common topic. Fresh ideas can engage your readers more effectively.

7. Balanced Controversy: Choose a topic with a degree of controversy. A balanced debate with valid arguments on both sides makes for a more engaging essay.

8. Ethical Considerations: Keep ethical considerations in mind. Avoid topics that may be offensive or controversial without adding significant value to the discussion.

Notice that the process of selecting a persuasive essay topic can be as rewarding as writing the essay itself. Based on my experience, once you’ve picked a topic, the next step is to delve into research and build a strong argument.

Section 3: Persuasive Essay Topics for High School

High school students often face the challenge of selecting a persuasive essay topic that not only aligns with their academic interests but also engages their peers. Here are ten persuasive essay topics tailored for high school students, each with a brief description or context:

• The Importance of Teaching Financial Literacy in High Schools: Explore the benefits of integrating financial literacy into the high school curriculum, equipping students with essential life skills.
• Should Students Have a Say in Curriculum Development?: Discuss the idea of involving students in shaping their own education by contributing to curriculum decisions.
• The Impact of Bullying on Mental Health and Academic Performance: Analyze the effects of bullying on both the mental well-being and academic success of high school students.
• Uniforms or Freedom? Exploring the School Dress Code Debate: Engage in the ongoing debate about the necessity of school dress codes and their implications for students’ freedom of expression.
• The Role of Technology in Education: Boon or Bane?: Assess the impact of technology on the learning process in high schools, addressing its advantages and disadvantages.
• Promoting Environmental Awareness in High Schools: Discuss the importance of teaching students about environmental issues and encouraging sustainable practices.
• Should High School Start Times Be Adjusted for Better Sleep?: Explore the debate on whether high school start times should be adjusted to better align with students’ sleep patterns and health.
• The Influence of Pop Culture on Teenagers: Analyze the role of pop culture, including music, movies, and social media, in shaping the attitudes and behaviors of high school students.
• The Value of School Vouchers and School Choice Programs: Debate the pros and cons of school voucher programs and their potential impact on the education system.
• Is Standardized Testing an Effective Measure of Student Ability?: Examine the effectiveness of standardized tests in evaluating students’ skills and knowledge, and discuss potential alternatives.

These topics cover a wide range of subjects, from education to social issues, providing high school students with a diverse selection of ideas for their persuasive essays. In the following sections, we will present persuasive essay topics suitable for college students and general audiences.

Section 4: Persuasive Essay Topics for College

College students often engage with more complex and mature topics. Here are ten persuasive essay topics tailored for college students, each with a brief description or context:

• The Role of College Education in Career Success: Explore the correlation between obtaining a college degree and long-term career prospects.
• The Impact of Student Loan Debt on Future Generations: Discuss the implications of the rising student loan debt crisis and its effect on future generations.
• Balancing Work and College: The Pros and Cons of Part-Time Jobs: Analyze the benefits and drawbacks of working part-time while pursuing a college degree.
• The Value of Liberal Arts Education in the 21st Century: Explore the importance of a well-rounded education, including the humanities, in the modern workforce.
• Ethical Implications of Genetic Engineering: Discuss the ethical concerns surrounding genetic engineering and its application in medicine and agriculture.
• Debating College Athlete Compensation: Examine the debate on whether college athletes should be compensated for their participation in sports.
• The Influence of Social Media on Personal Relationships: Analyze the impact of social media on personal interactions and relationships among college students.
• The Future of Renewable Energy Sources: Discuss the potential of renewable energy sources in meeting future energy needs and addressing climate change.
• Exploring the Role of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: Analyze how AI is revolutionizing the healthcare industry and the ethical considerations it raises.
• The Benefits and Drawbacks of Online Learning: Debate the advantages and disadvantages of online education, particularly in a post-pandemic world.

These college-level persuasive essay topics cover a range of subjects, from education and technology to ethics and societal issues. They provide college students with thought-provoking ideas for their persuasive essays.

Section 5: for General Audiences

In this section, we’ll offer ten persuasive essay topics that can appeal to a broader audience, including adults and those interested in a variety of subjects. Each topic includes a brief description or context:

• Universal Basic Income: A Solution to Economic Inequality: Explore the concept of universal basic income as a potential remedy for economic disparities in society.
• The Role of Governments in Addressing Climate Change: Discuss the responsibilities of governments in combating climate change and ensuring environmental sustainability.
• The Impact of Social Media on Democracy: Analyze how social media platforms influence public opinion, politics, and democratic processes.
• The Ethics of Animal Testing in Scientific Research: Examine the ethical considerations surrounding the use of animals in scientific experiments.
• Exploring Alternative Medicine: Complementary or Contradictory?: Discuss the role of alternative and complementary medicine in modern healthcare and its benefits and drawbacks.
• The Future of Space Exploration: Beyond the Moon and Mars: Debate the significance of exploring outer space, including missions to distant planets and beyond.
• The Influence of Technology on Mental Health: Analyze how technology, particularly smartphones and social media, affects the mental well-being of individuals.
• The Global Impact of Cybersecurity Threats: Discuss the global consequences of cyberattacks and the importance of cybersecurity in the digital age.
• The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence in Autonomous Vehicles: Examine the ethical dilemmas related to self-driving cars and their decision-making abilities.
• The Value of International Diplomacy in Resolving Conflicts: Explore the role of diplomacy in preventing and resolving international conflicts.

These persuasive essay topics are suitable for a diverse audience, covering issues related to ethics, technology, global concerns, and more.

Section 6: Unique and Creative Persuasive Essay Topics

If you’re looking for persuasive essay topics that stand out and capture the reader’s attention, consider these ten unique and creative ideas:

• The Influence of Color Psychology in Marketing and Design: Discuss the psychological impact of colors in advertising and design choices.
• The Art of Persuasion in Classic Literature: Analyze how persuasion is portrayed in classic literature and its relevance in modern society.
• Exploring the Future of Space Tourism: Discuss the prospects and challenges of space tourism as a future travel option for civilians.
• The Impact of Music on Human Emotions: Analyze how different types of music influence emotions and well-being.
• The Power of Storytelling in Marketing and Branding: Discuss the effectiveness of storytelling in marketing and creating strong brand identities.
• The Ethics of Cloning for Medical Advancements: Examine the ethical considerations surrounding human cloning for medical purposes.
• The Role of Humor in Persuasion: Discuss how humor can be a powerful tool in persuasive communication.
• The Art of Public Speaking: Lessons from Great Orators: Analyze the techniques and strategies used by famous orators throughout history.
• The Impact of Virtual Reality in Education: Discuss how virtual reality technology can transform the learning experience.
• Exploring the Mind-Body Connection in Health and Wellness: Examine the relationship between mental and physical health in holistic well-being.

These unique and creative persuasive essay topics offer a fresh perspective on various subjects, from literature and marketing to technology and healthcare. They provide an opportunity to explore unconventional ideas and engage your readers in captivating discussions.

50 Persuasive Essay Topics for High School Students: Engage, Educate, and Inspire

When it comes to high school education, persuasive essays are an excellent way for students to develop their critical thinking and communication skills. These essays allow young learners to express their opinions, research, and debate on various topics. However, finding the right persuasive essay topic can be a challenge. To make things easier for high school students, we’ve compiled a list of 50 engaging persuasive essay topics that encourage thoughtful discussion and debate.

• The Importance of Teaching Financial Literacy in High Schools
• Should Students Have a Say in Curriculum Development?
• The Impact of Bullying on Mental Health and Academic Performance
• Uniforms or Freedom? Exploring the School Dress Code Debate
• The Role of Technology in Education: Boon or Bane?
• Promoting Environmental Awareness in High Schools
• Should High School Start Times Be Adjusted for Better Sleep?
• The Influence of Pop Culture on Teenagers
• The Value of School Vouchers and School Choice Programs
• Is Standardized Testing an Effective Measure of Student Ability?
• Teaching Emotional Intelligence in High Schools
• The Importance of Sex Education: Comprehensive vs. Abstinence-Only
• Single-Sex Education: Is It Beneficial or Detrimental?
• Addressing the Issue of Teenage Pregnancy: Comprehensive Sex Education
• Banning Junk Food in School Cafeterias
• The Pros and Cons of Homeschooling
• Cell Phones in the Classroom: A Distraction or a Learning Tool?
• Exploring the Impact of Social Media on Teenagers
• The Effects of Cyberbullying on High School Students
• Teaching Tolerance and Promoting Diversity in High Schools
• The Benefits of Learning a Second Language
• Should High School Athletes Be Drug Tested?
• Censorship in Schools: Balancing Free Speech and Appropriate Content
• Is Homework Necessary for Academic Success?
• The Impact of Music and Arts Education on Student Development
• The Role of Religion in Public High Schools
• Teaching Critical Thinking Skills: Is It Adequate in High Schools?
• Drug Education: The Importance of Substance Abuse Prevention
• Student Leadership and Extracurricular Activities: Building Well-Rounded Individuals
• The Ethics of Animal Testing: Should High Schools Use Animals in Science Classes?
• The Influence of Video Games on Teen Behavior
• Teaching Internet Safety and Digital Literacy in High Schools
• Promoting Physical Education and Active Lifestyles
• Inclusion of LGBTQ+ Education in High School Curriculum
• The Significance of Financial Aid Programs for College-Bound Students
• Civics Education: Preparing Students for Active Citizenship
• Encouraging High School Students to Volunteer in Their Communities
• Exploring Mental Health Education in High Schools
• The Impact of Social and Economic Disparities on High School Education
• Mandatory Community Service: Encouraging Civic Responsibility
• Exploring the Effects of Climate Change in Environmental Science Classes
• The Role of Literature in Developing Empathy and Understanding
• Teaching Time Management and Study Skills
• Addressing the Issue of Student Stress: Coping Mechanisms and Solutions
• The Importance of Teaching Consent and Respect in Relationships
• The Role of High Schools in Combating Substance Abuse
• Should High School Graduation Requirements Be More Flexible?
• Teaching Students About Personal Finance and Budgeting
• Is Advanced Placement (AP) Worth the Extra Effort?
• Examining the Impact of High-Stakes Testing on Education Quality

These 50 persuasive essay topics for high school students cover a wide range of issues, allowing young learners to explore and articulate their opinions on critical subjects. High school is a time for students to develop their voices, learn to think critically, and engage in meaningful discussions. These topics offer the opportunity to do just that, while also helping to expand their knowledge and understanding of the world around them. Whether it’s addressing contemporary societal issues or delving into traditional educational debates, these topics empower high school students to engage, educate, and inspire. So, pick a topic, and let the persuasive writing begin!

Extra List of Persuasive Topics

Persuasive topics for debates.

Here is a compilation of persuasive essay topics that you can explore and debate:

• The Use of Cell Phones in Elementary and High Schools
• School Uniforms: A Necessary Requirement?
• Paying College Athletes for Their Performance
• Tuition-Free State Colleges for In-State Residents
• Mandatory Year of Community Service for All Americans
• Compulsory Foreign Language Courses in Schools
• Legalizing Marijuana for Medicinal Purposes
• Lowering the Voting Age to Thirteen
• Raising the Driving Age to Twenty-One
• Paying Students for Good Grades
• Allowing Illegal Immigrants to Obtain Driver’s Licenses
• Replacing Textbooks with Notebook Computers
• Requiring Basic Skills Tests for High School Graduation
• Fundraising through Candy and Sugary Drinks Sales in Schools
• Serving French Fries and Fried Potato Products in School Lunches
• Including Gym Grades in Students’ GPAs
• Allowing Girls to Participate in Boys’ Sports Teams
• Sales of Violent Video Games to Teens
• Segregating Boys and Girls in School Classes
• Access to Birth Control for Teenage Girls without Parental Permission
• Implementing a Universal Health Care Program
• Reforming Immigration Laws
• Recognizing Civil Unions by the Federal Government
• Punishing Illegal Music and Movie Downloaders
• Academic Performance Requirements for School Athletes
• Allowing Music with Profanity at School Dances
• Go-Go Bands Performing at School Dances
• Use of MP3 Players in Classrooms
• Offering Fast Food Options in Schools
• Providing Free Public Wi-Fi in Cities
• Taxation of Junk Food and Fatty Snacks
• Stringent Security Screenings for Airplane Travelers
• Basic Skills Tests for Teachers Every Ten Years
• Ownership of Exotic Animals like Chimpanzees or Tigers
• Keeping Pit Bull Dogs as Pets
• Implementing a Bike-Sharing Program in Cities
• Imposing Ordinances for Non-Recycling
• Imposing Ordinances for Loud Music
• Stricter Penalties for Celebrities Who Break the Law
• Charging Larger Passengers for Extra Plane or Movie Tickets
• Licensing for Parenthood
• Stricter Federal Internet Content Restrictions
• Cursing on Daytime Television
• Inclusion of Sexual Education in Public Schools
• Providing Free Condoms to Students at School
• Suspending Students for Cyberbullying
• Allowing Corporate Advertising in Schools
• Eating During Class
• Protecting and Preserving Endangered Animals
• Students and Teachers as Friends on Facebook
• Open Campus Lunch Periods for Students
• Legalization of Abortions
• Abortion Legalization in Cases of Rape and Incest
• The Use of the Death Penalty for Violent Criminals
• Teaching World Religions in Public Schools
• Delaying School Start Times in the Morning
• Ending Overseas Military Operations by the USA
• Campaign Contributions from Corporate Lobbyists
• Doctor-Assisted Suicide for Terminal Patients
• Using Stem Cells from Aborted Fetuses for Medical Research
• Drug Testing for School Athletes
• Drug Testing for Professional Athletes
• Mandatory Community Service for High School Graduation
• Teens’ Access to R-Rated Movies
• State Tests in Languages for ESL Students
• Animal Testing for Human Product Safety
• Warning Labels on Unhealthy Fast Food
• Tariffs or Taxes on Foreign-Manufactured Products
• Monetary Rewards for Standardized Test Performance
• Enforcing Curfews for Those Under 17
• Closing Low-Performing Schools Based on Standardized Tests
• Minors Drinking Alcohol at Home with Parental Consent
• Allowing Students to Drop Out Before Age 18
• Alcohol Manufacturers Advertising on Television
• Part-Time Jobs for Students as Young as Fourteen
• License Suspension for Drunk Driving
• Retaining Students Who Fail Their Classes
• Minority Employment Quotas for Large Businesses
• Free College Tuition for High-Achieving Homeless Students
• Legal Status of Gambling and Sports Betting
• Trying Children Who Commit Violent Crimes as Adults
• Detaining Suspected Terrorists Without Trial
• Government Internet Censorship
• Dress Codes for Teachers
• Allowing Cell Phones for Teachers in the Classroom
• Euthanizing Dogs That Bite People

If you’re seeking inspiration for persuasive essays, consider the following prompts:

• Addressing Bullying: Should Schools or Parents Tackle the Issue?
• Advocating for a Cause: Convince Readers to Support Your Chosen Cause
• Online Communication vs. Interpersonal Skills: Which Is More Important?
• Volunteering: Encourage Others to Contribute to a Charitable Cause
• The Impact of TV Violence: Discuss Whether It Affects Society
• Language Learning in Schools: Should Native Speakers Receive Native Language Classes?
• Balanced News Coverage: Should Television Prioritize International and Global News?
• Mandatory Volunteer Hours: Are They Beneficial or Coercive?
• Parental Approaches to Allowance: Should It Be Linked to Behavior or Given Unconditionally?
• Single-Sex Education: Debate the Advantages and Disadvantages
• Minimizing TV Time: Convince Readers to Reduce TV Viewing
• Driving Age: Argue for the Appropriate Age for Driver’s Licenses
• School Searches: Balancing Student Privacy and Safety
• Breaking Harmful Habits: Persuade Readers to Quit a Detrimental Habit
• Military Service: Discuss the Merits of Mandatory Service
• Labeling Genetically Modified Foods: Argue for or Against GMO Labels
• The Role of Genetic Modification in Food: Convince Readers of Its Merits or Drawbacks
• Credit Card Solicitation in Schools: Discuss Whether It’s Exploitative or Educational
• Reality Television: Are These Shows Valuable or Just Entertainment?
• Banning Passenger Cars in Favor of Public Transportation
• Talk Show Aggressiveness: Debate the Extent of Acceptable Confrontation
• Personal Change for the Better: Encourage Others to Make Positive Life Changes
• Environmental Actions: Persuade Readers to Partake in Eco-Friendly Activities
• Promoting Physical Activity: Convince Readers to Lead a Healthier Lifestyle
• Politicians’ Private Lives: Should They Be of Public Concern?
• High Earnings for Professional Athletes: Discuss Whether They Are Justified
• Importance of Computers in Education: Evaluate Their Role
• Higher School Standards: Advocate for More Challenging Educational Criteria
• U.S. Foreign Aid: Discuss the Appropriateness of Its Allocation
• Sport Fishing: Debate the Ethics of the Sport
• School Security: Argue for Appropriate Measures
• Grading vs. Evaluation: Discuss Their Effectiveness in Education
• School Cafeteria Menus: Argue for Healthier Options
• School Uniforms: Take a Position on Their Implementation
• Media Ratings Systems: Evaluate Their Effectiveness
• Learning Foreign Languages: Discuss the Importance of Multilingualism
• Online Degrees: Consider the Viability of Entirely Online Education
• Education as a Right or Privilege: State Your Position
• Improving Hometowns: Advocate for Changes in Your Community
• Extending the School Year: Argue for or Against a Longer Academic Calendar
• Surveillance Cameras: Discuss Their Role in Public Safety
• Reading Classic Literature in Schools: Debate Its Relevance
• Parental Warnings on Music Lyrics: Take a Stand on Their Adequacy
• Fuel-Efficient Engines: Argue for Stricter Regulations
• The Ethicality of Zoos: Discuss Their Impact on Animals
• Selling Essays Online: Determine Their Legitimacy
• The Validity of SAT/ACT Exams: Assess Their Accuracy
• Sharing Music Across Generations: Persuade Others to Appreciate Your Music
• The Pledge of Allegiance: Mandatory, Voluntary, or Abandoned?
• The Futility of War: Discuss Thomas Mann’s Perspective
• The Nature of War: Assess Jeannette Rankin’s Perspective
• Explicit Lyrics Warning: Argue for Stronger Warnings on Music Labels
• Study Halls in High Schools: Advocate for Their Inclusion in Schedules

These topics and prompts can serve as a starting point for crafting your persuasive essays, allowing you to express your views and arguments effectively.

Section 7: Conclusion

In this guide, we’ve explored a diverse array of persuasive essay topics suitable for various audiences and interests. Choosing the right topic is the first step towards crafting a compelling persuasive essay, one that not only engages your readers but also inspires thoughtful reflection and discussion.

Whether you’re a high school student, a college student, or a writer addressing a general audience, the key to a successful persuasive essay is selecting a topic that aligns with your interests, the expectations of your readers, and the societal or academic context. As you embark on your essay-writing journey, remember the importance of in-depth research, well-structured arguments, and the art of persuasive communication.

If you’ve found a topic that resonates with you or have been inspired by the creative ideas presented here, it’s time to start crafting your persuasive essay. With your well-researched arguments and thoughtful presentation, you can influence minds and spark meaningful discussions.

Remember that persuasive essays are not just academic exercises; they are opportunities to explore and advocate for the issues that matter most to you. So, choose your topic wisely, research thoroughly, and craft an essay that persuades, informs, and inspires change.

Now, you have a selection of persuasive essay topics that cater to different tastes, interests, and levels of expertise. The world is full of issues waiting to be explored and discussed. It’s up to you to choose the topic that resonates with your passion and convictions.

So, go ahead, pick a topic, and start writing your persuasive essay. Your words have the power to make a difference and inspire change.

Good luck with your persuasive essay journey!

Feel free to use this article as a reference or as a template for your persuasive essay topics. If you need further assistance or have any specific questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.

Persuasive or Argumentative Essay Scoring Guide – Matrix – Rubrics

Teachers should use the scoring guide for persuasive essays as it provides a systematic and objective framework for assessing students’ writing skills and their ability to construct convincing arguments. In my own teaching experience, I’ve found this guide to be an invaluable tool in several ways.

Firstly, it establishes clear expectations for students, allowing them to understand what’s required to excel in their persuasive writing. By breaking down the assessment into specific criteria, it demystifies the grading process and helps students comprehend the elements that contribute to a strong persuasive essay.

During class, I often use this scoring guide as a reference point, discussing each criterion with students. We talk about the importance of a well-structured argument, the need for strong evidence, the role of transitions, and the significance of grammar and style. It serves as a roadmap for our discussions, making it easier for students to see their strengths and areas that need improvement.

One common issue I’ve encountered is that students sometimes struggle with organizing their arguments effectively. The scoring guide is particularly helpful in addressing this. We discuss the importance of a clear thesis, supporting evidence, and transitions to ensure logical flow. Students can pinpoint where their essays may lack organization, and this guide becomes a tool for self-assessment and revision.

In terms of problems, students can sometimes misinterpret the guide’s criteria or need clarification on specific points. It’s crucial for the teacher to be available for questions and offer examples to illustrate each level of performance for every criterion.

Ultimately, this scoring guide acts as a roadmap for both students and teachers. It helps create a shared understanding of what constitutes a strong persuasive essay and empowers students to take ownership of their writing. It also facilitates more objective and consistent grading, promoting fairness and transparency in the assessment process.

This is supported by this academic research paper .

Aliv Faizal M

I am a teacher who loves to use technology. I like to design templates in Google Docs, Google Slides, Powerpoint, Word, CorelDraw, etc.

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205 Controversial Topics for your Essay, Speech, or Debate

Amanda Green was born in a small town in the west of Scotland, where everyone knows everyone. I joined the Toastmasters 15 years ago, and I served in nearly every office in the club since then. I love helping others gain confidence and skills they can apply in every day life.

Do you think social media platforms should censor politicians? No matter how important you feel this issue is relative to other issues of the day, you’re likely to have an opinion one way or the other. Why? Because it’s a controversial matter, and it immediately pushes some buttons in our brains.

What makes issues like this so engaging?

Controversial topics have two features that almost instantly grab people’s attention. On one side, they are both simple and familiar, and so are understandable without any effort. On the other side, they touch on sensitive matters that society as a whole has not yet come to terms with. This makes them tickle our inherent desire for closure. We want to make up our minds once and for all!

So if you’re looking for such a topic for your essay, speech, or debate, you’ve come to the right place!

We’ve compiled a list of hundreds of controversial issues organized by subject matter (You can visit our page on how to write a persuasive controversial essay if you want to improve your base skills). Whether you’re trying to come up with a topic for your science, psychology, history class – or nearly any other topic! – you’re sure to find an issue below that will keep your audience engaged, and even stir up some discussion.

In this article:

Political Debate Topics

Controversial criminal justice topics, controversial religious topics, controversial topics for teens, controversial science topics, controversial sports topics, controversial food topics, controversial nutrition topics, controversial animal topics, controversial topics in psychology, controversial relationship topics, controversial medical topics, controversial topics in nursing, controversial topics in biology, music controversial topics, controversial art topics, controversial history topics, funny controversial topics, what are the pros and cons of controversial topics.

As mentioned earlier, picking a controversial topic almost guarantees that you’ll command your audience’s attention. But such issues have downsides too. We go over the advantages and disadvantages of hot-button issues to help you make the right choice for your essay, speech, or debate.

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• Immediately engaging – Your readers or listeners are unlikely to doze off.
• Easy to find information on – You won’t have to look far to find credible information on controversial issues.
• Likely to keep you absorbed while researching – What’s interesting for your audience will probably keep boredom at bay for you too.
• Too sensitive for some people – These issues often have a strong emotional charge and may even be taboo for some, causing awkward situations.
• Hard to review all points – A huge debate has probably been raging on such topics, so it’s not so easy to cover all your bases and appear knowledgeable on the issue at hand.
• Hard to wrap up – These matters are controversial for a reason. It may be hard to come to a satisfactory conclusion, whether you’re presenting or debating.

Interesting Controversial Topics by Field

Below, we’ve compiled a catalog of fascinating controversial topics by field. Keep in mind that many of these spill over from one category to another, so there is some overlap. Is climate change a political or scientific issue? There’s a controversial question for you!

Controversy is where politics are born. There’s usually some point of disagreement about any matter related to public affairs – that’s why a politician’s main job is to debate and come to an agreement (ideally) on how to handle these issues. Or, as political scientist Harold Lasswell put it succinctly, politics is, “Who gets what, when, how.”

So political issues are controversial by definition. We’ve worked hard to provide you with the longest, most comprehensive list you’ll find anywhere, and any of these topics may be instantly captivating.

• Is democracy the best form of government?
• Should there be a minimum wage?
• Should the government intervene in the free market?
• Should the US government intervene in foreign affairs?
• Should there be term limits for US senators?
• Should the Electoral College be abolished in the US?
• Are there exceptions to the freedom of speech?
• Should hate speech be banned?
• Should the government ensure the protection of privacy?
• Is the gender pay gap real?
• Does institutional racism exist in the US?
• Is affirmative action helping or hurting?
• Is immigration helping or hurting the US?
• Should all illicit drugs be legalized?
• Should prostitution be legalized?
• Should abortion be banned?
• Should there be stricter gun control laws?
• Should automatic weapons be banned?
• Should military service be mandatory?
• Should water be a commodity or a human right?
• Should the government forgive all student debt?

Is justice being served? Few things get under people’s skin as much as perceived injustices. We are more or less programmed to seek fairness both for ourselves and for others. That’s why, similar to political topics, criminal justice issues are naturally engaging.

Appropriate punishment is salient now especially in the US after years of debates and protests related to the killings of minorities like George Floyd, Michael Brown, and Tamir Rice. More recently, the storming of the US Capitol, the role the President’s words had in inciting the perpetrators, and how liable they are when following their President’s words, are also hot-button issues. It’s hard to go wrong with a criminal justice topic.

• Is the death penalty ethical?
• Should people be jailed for drug-related offenses?
• Should police officers be charged for inappropriate use of force?
• Why are minorities disproportionately represented in the US prison population?
• Why does the US have the largest prison population in the world?
• Should mentally unstable people be charged with crimes?
• Should underage repeat offenders be tried as adults?
• Should there be more than 12 jurors in a jury?
• Should felons be allowed to vote?

Religion is a sensitive issue everywhere. Since it often concerns people’s innermost beliefs and principles, it’s not difficult to capture your audience’s attention with a religious topic. But beware that it’s also very easy to offend someone if you’re not careful.

Take religious freedom, for example – a concept interpreted in very different ways by different people. When in 2012 a Christian baker in Colorado refused to bake a wedding cake for a gay couple, was he exercising his religious freedom or discriminating against LGBTQ people?

• Is atheism a religion?
• Does religion do more harm than good?
• Should creationism be taught in schools?
• Should there be religious education in schools?
• Should religious symbols be banned from schools?
• Should schools’ curriculums consider religious points of view?
• Should public prayer be allowed in schools?
• Should religious institutions pay taxes?
• Are most religions inherently sexist?
• Is Buddhism more peaceful than other religions?

The teenage years are a transition period between childhood and adulthood, which causes a natural struggle between treating teens as children or adults. Can we hold teenagers accountable for crimes they committed? Or should their parents be responsible? Issues like this make a lively debate inevitable.

• Should we lower the voting age to 16?
• Should we lower the drinking age to 18?
• At what age should teens be allowed to date?
• At what age is it appropriate for teens to have sex?
• Should sex education be mandatory in school?
• Should teenage pregnancies be terminated?
• Should teens have access to birth control?
• Is cyberbullying as bad as real-life bullying?
• Is peer pressure good or bad?
• Does social media cause an increase in teenage suicide?
• Are beauty pageants harmful to teenagers’ self-esteem?
• Should teens be allowed to keep secrets from parents?
• Should energy drinks be banned for teenagers?
• Should mobile devices be banned at school?
• Is the school grading system effective?
• Should school uniforms be mandatory?
• Should teens be allowed to get tattoos?
• Should vaping be prohibited for teens?

Are you looking for more controversial topics for teens? Check out our other article where you can find 170+ controversial debate topics for teens , as well as the dos and don’ts when debating controversial topics.

Science has a very specific way of addressing controversies – by looking at evidence. When scientists disagree on something, they have to back their views with data and logical arguments. But scientific questions are often taken outside the realm of the experts and turn into social, political, or economic issues.

That’s why it’s important to be familiar with the concept of false equivalence – a fallacy in which a flawed or misleading argument is presented as equivalent to a sound and logical one. For instance, scientists have shown that the preponderance of evidence points to the reality of climate change. Media outlets and some politicians, however, sometimes present the issue as not settled. No matter whether climate change is real or not, saying that a politician’s opinion is as valid as a scientist’s – when we’re talking about that scientist’s field – is a false equivalence. Issues like that are bound to create a heated (pun intended) debate.

• Can scientists ever be objective?
• Should corporations fund research?
• Should science be optional in school?
• Why are women underrepresented in science?
• Is STEM education more valuable than training in humanities?
• Should cryptocurrencies be regulated?
• Should net neutrality be restored?
• Should robots have rights?
• Is AI a menace to humans?
• Is AI the next stage in evolution?
• Is technology helping or destroying Earth?
• Can renewable sources of energy replace fossil fuels?
• Is climate change a threat to humanity?
• Is cell phone radiation dangerous?
• Is climate change reversible?
• Should all cars be electric?
• Is nuclear energy safe?
• Does alien life exist?
• Could alien life have found Earth?
• Should humans try to colonize Mars?

Professional sports hold a lot of potential to create controversy. Hardly a week goes by without some major sports issue making the news. Whether it’s deflated footballs, kneeling during the anthem, or equal pay for male and female athletes, sports topics usually carry an emotional charge as most people have a strong opinion one way or the other .

• Should performance-enhancing drugs be allowed in sports?
• Are professional athletes paid too much?
• Are professional athletes good role models?
• Should college athletes be paid beyond scholarships?
• Should college athletes be tested for drugs?
• Is dance a real sport?
• Is video gaming a real sport?
• Is bodybuilding a real sport?
• Is cheerleading a real sport?
• Should mixed martial arts be banned?
• Should women compete against men in sports?
• Should female athletes be paid the same as male athletes?
• Should transgender athletes who used to be male compete in women’s sports?
• Do the Olympics do more harm than good for the cities hosting them?
• Are professional sports too damaging to athletes’ health?
• Is American football too dangerous for athletes?
• Should athletes who kneel for the anthem be sanctioned?

Sharing a meal with others unites us, but our opinions on food often divide us. Why is one part of the world starving, while another struggles with obesity? Is famine a result of a shortage or a distribution problem? Questions about food are important for humanity, which makes them compelling topics for discussion.

• Are genetically modified foods dangerous?
• Should genetically modified foods be labeled?
• Is organic food better than regular food?
• Is fast food responsible for obesity?
• Is food waste unavoidable?
• Is organic farming sustainable?
• Is factory farming unsustainable?
• Is grass-fed beef better than corn-fed beef?
• Is palm oil production causing deforestation?
• Can biotech foods save us from hunger?
• Should butter be stored in the fridge?

Nutrition is one of the most controversial scientific fields – dietary guidelines seem to be changing by the day. Is it OK to eat more than two eggs a day? Are carbs more unhealthy than fats? Issues like that are notoriously hard to resolve as even a carefully designed scientific study struggles to untangle the many factors that go into human health.

• Should we have nutrition classes in schools?
• Can a vegan diet help the environment?
• Is it healthier to be vegetarian?
• Is an all-meat diet healthy?
• Is dieting ever effective?
• Does fasting help or harm the body?
• Are gluten-free diets overhyped?
• Should we ban trans fat?
• Is sugar addictive?
• Are artificial sweeteners unhealthy?

Bring up the practice of eating dog meat in some countries to a dog lover, and you’ll more than likely evoke a very strong reaction. But how is it different from eating other social and intelligent mammals, such as pigs? There are many unresolved animal issues that can make for a captivating paper or presentation.

• Should animals have the same rights as humans?
• Should animals be considered individuals?
• Do animals have emotions?
• Do animals have consciousness?
• Is animal testing ethical?
• Should the fur industry be restricted?
• Are zoos helping or hurting animals?
• Should there be animals in circuses?
• Should we try to reverse extinction?
• Are humans destroying animal habitats?
• Is selective dog breeding unethical?
• Should bullfighting be banned?
• Should whaling be banned?

Many argue that psychology as a science is still in its infancy. There’s no consensus on a lot of the big questions related to people’s minds. Is there even a way to know what’s happening inside someone else’s head besides our own? A behaviorist would insist there isn’t.

• Is psychology a real science?
• Is depression a real disease?
• Are antidepressants effective?
• Is ADHD a real mental disorder?
• Is drug abuse a mental health issue?
• Is mental illness equivalent to physical illness?
• Should psychologists be allowed to prescribe drugs?
• Is prejudice against different people inherent?
• Is it ethical to “treat” homosexuality?
• Are social media sites addictive?
• Is social media connecting us or making us more isolated?
• Is pornography harmful to the psyche?
• Do video games cause violence?
• Is intelligence inherited?

Being in a romantic relationship involves constantly negotiating and renegotiating issues ranging from the most mundane to the most profound. On top of that, most adults are or have been part of a couple, making this a relatable and attention-grabbing subject.

• Is monogamy natural?
• Does divorce harm children?
• Should dating between co-workers be allowed?
• Should people date people much older than themselves?
• Is romantic love a prerequisite to marital satisfaction?
• Should arguments in a couple be avoided or encouraged?
• Should men and women have different functions in a relationship?
• Is it OK to keep secrets from your partner?
• Are long-distance relationships worth it?
• Is sex before marriage wrong?
• Is online dating good or bad?
• Are homosexual relationships natural?
• Should same-sex marriage be banned?
• Should LGBTQ people be allowed to adopt children?

Health is arguably the most important thing for a person. So it’s no surprise that we take issues related to health and medicine very seriously. Is there any point in prolonging a dying patient’s pain through life support? Questions like this are hard to give a definitive answer to, making them potent discussion topics.

• Are vaccines safe?
• Is Covid-19 manmade?
• Should immunization be mandatory?
• Should euthanasia be allowed?
• Is alternative medicine any good?
• Should healthcare be free?
• Is obesity a disease?
• Is circumcision healthy?
• Is stem cell research ethical?
• How harshly should medical malpractice be punished?
• Should Big Pharma be banned from charging too much for life-saving drugs?
• Should prescription drug manufacturers be held responsible for the opioid crisis?
• Should cannabis be prescribed as medicine?
• Should surrogate pregnancy be allowed?
• Should we use gene-editing in humans?
• Should the sale of human organs be allowed?
• Should genetic screening of embryos be legal?

If nurses are essential workers, why do they get paid so little? To get to the bottom of this, we need to go beyond the nursing profession and take a hard look at society as a whole. Besides, just like doctors, nurses face ethical dilemmas in their work every day, which creates a lot of room for debate.

• Are nurses compensated fairly?
• Should nurses’ shifts be shortened?
• Should nurses be allowed to prescribe drugs?
• Is the nursing profession better suited for women?
• Should nurses use artificial hydration and nutrition?
• Should nurses treat non-compliant patients?

Biology deals with nothing less than life itself! And what’s a more fascinating question than the origin of life? Although we seem to be far from deciphering this mystery, there are many other issues that both scientists and laypeople have good reason to debate.

• Is evolution up for debate?
• Did life emerge out of inorganic matter?
• Is there a viable alternative to the theory of evolution?
• How significant are the physiological differences between men and women?
• Is behavior determined by our genes or by our upbringing?
• Are there more than two genders?

If you’re a classical music lover, you’ll very likely scoff at the assertion that rock ‘n’ roll is the best musical genre. But who’s to say? Maybe someone will argue that there are objective measures of the quality of music. As with any issue that’s close to many people’s hearts, music can be an excellent topic for discussion.

• Is music getting worse over time?
• Is the pursuit of profit ruining music?
• Do music streaming services such as Spotify help or harm musical artists?
• Are violent or explicit lyrics harmful to society?
• Are rock stars a bad influence on children?
• Are The Beatles overrated?

Do you think Banksy will go down in history as one of the great artists, or do you see his works as cheap stunts? Either way, you’ll probably agree that art has changed almost beyond recognition since the time of Rembrandt. Whether that’s a good or bad thing is just one topic worth exploring.

• Is the value of art subjective?
• Should explicit art be censored?
• Who decides what constitutes art?
• Should an art piece always carry a message?
• Is contemporary art as good as classical art?
• Should any topic be out of bounds for art?

Hardly anyone would disagree that we should learn from history to avoid making the same mistake twice. But what exactly are history’s lessons is up for debate, and so make for great discussion topics.

• Are the two World Wars responsible for the relative state of peace since?
• Should the US pay reparations to African Americans because of slavery?
• Should Confederate statues in the US be taken down?
• Was Christopher Columbus a hero or a villain?
• Was the French Revolution inevitable?
• Is history always written by the victors?
• Is history bound to be repeated?

Are cats better pets than dogs? Does pineapple belong on a pizza? These are the kind of age-old debates we look into in our Funny Controversial Topics page.

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7 thoughts on “205 Controversial Topics for your Essay, Speech, or Debate”

Which is better, Chicago pizza or New York pizza?

Hey Nicole, just to answer your question personally I think Chicago pizza is too thick and I would choose New York pizza any day.

In my opinion Chicago pizza is clearly superior, and its thickness is one of its best attributes.

In my opinion New York pizza is clearly superior, and its thinness is one of its best attributes.

I second Chicago pizza lover’s statement, I think that Chicagos pizzas are much better!

In my very Italian opinion, true real pizza is Made in Italy only – the best. Cheers x 🙂

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Type Of Academic Writing:  A Guide for Every Student

Think of academic writing like a large toolbox with different tools, each meant for a specific task. Just like you wouldn’t use a hammer to fix a leaky faucet, you don’t use the same writing style for every academic task. Whether you’re a high school student, a college undergrad, or a graduate researcher, understanding the type of academic writing can make a world of difference in your studies. So, let’s dive into this toolbox and explore the various writing styles you’ll encounter on your academic journey.

What Is Academic Writing And Examples?

Table of Contents

Academic writing is a fancy way of writing that’s used in schools and colleges. Its goal is to share information and ideas clearly and neatly. It’s common in schools, colleges, universities, and academic research. Here are some examples of academic writing:

• Research Papers: Detailed studies on specific topics, presenting findings and analysis.
• Essays: Structured pieces of writing with a clear thesis statement and supporting evidence.
• Literature Reviews: Summaries and evaluations of existing research on a particular topic.
• Case Studies: In-depth examinations of a specific situation or individual, often in psychology or sociology.
• Theses and Dissertations: Extensive research projects culminating in a formal document for advanced degrees.
• Reports: Formal documents presenting facts, analyses, and recommendations.
• Annotated Bibliographies: Lists of sources with brief summaries and evaluations.
• Lab Reports: Documents detailing scientific experiments and their results.

Each of these examples follows specific conventions of academic writing, such as citing sources, using formal language, and adhering to a particular structure.

What Are The 4 Main Types Of Academic Writing?

Descriptive writing, what is it.

Descriptive writing paints a vivid picture with words. Its goal is to describe a person, place, event, or object in detail, allowing readers to visualize it in their minds.

Characteristics

• Rich in sensory details: Descriptive writing appeals to the senses—sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell.
• Use of vivid language: It employs colorful adjectives and adverbs to create a clear image.
• Objective observation: Descriptive writing sticks to the facts without interpretation.
• Scientific Observations: Think of a biologist describing the behavior of ants in intricate detail.
• Literary Analysis: When an English student dissects the imagery in a poem, that’s descriptive writing in action.

Analytical Writing

Analytical writing involves breaking down complex ideas into smaller parts to understand them better. It’s about examining something closely and drawing connections.

• Critical thinking: Analytical writing requires you to analyze, evaluate, and interpret information.
• Comparison and contrast: Often involves comparing multiple viewpoints or pieces of literature.
• Logical structure: Ideas are presented in a logical sequence with supporting evidence.
• Critical Reviews: Movie critics use analytical writing to assess films, discussing what worked and what didn’t.
• Comparative Essays: Comparing two historical events or two theories in psychology falls under analytical writing.

Persuasive Writing

Persuasive writing aims to convince readers of a particular viewpoint or idea. It’s about presenting arguments and supporting them with evidence.

• Clear thesis statement: The writer states their position early on.
• Appeals to emotions and logic: Persuasive writing uses both emotional and logical appeals to sway the reader.
• Counter Arguments addressed: Acknowledges opposing views and refutes them.
• Argumentative Essays: These essays argue a specific point, such as the importance of recycling or the benefits of a vegan diet.
• Position Papers: When a politician writes a paper advocating for a new law, that’s persuasive writing in action.

Expository Writing

Expository writing is all about explaining and informing. It’s like being a tour guide for your reader, leading them through a topic step by step.

• Clarity and conciseness: Expository writing is straightforward and to the point.
• Research-based: Relies on credible sources to support the information presented.
• Instructional tone: Often includes “how-to” guides or explanations of processes.
• Research Papers: When a scientist explains their findings and their implications, that’s expository writing.
• How-to Guides: Cooking recipes, DIY instructions, and academic guides on formatting papers are all examples of expository writing.

Narrative Writing

Narrative writing tells a story. It can be personal, fictional, or based on real events, but its essence lies in engaging the reader in a narrative arc.

• Characters and plot: Narrative writing involves characters with goals and obstacles.
• Chronological structure: Stories are often told in sequence, from beginning to end.
• Descriptive elements: Like descriptive writing, narratives use vivid details to immerse the reader.
• Personal Essays: Reflective pieces where the writer shares a personal experience and its significance.
• Case Studies: In fields like psychology and sociology, researchers use narrative writing to present detailed case studies of individuals.

What Are The 6 Common Problems In Academic Writing?

In academic writing, several common problems can arise, leading to challenges in clarity, coherence, and overall effectiveness of the work. Here are six common problems encountered in academic writing:

• Lack of Clarity and Precision
• Issue: Unclear or vague writing can confuse readers and weaken the argument.
• Solution: Define terms, use specific examples, and ensure each sentence contributes to the main point.
• Poor Organization and Structure
• Issue: Disorganized writing makes it difficult for readers to follow the flow of ideas.
• Solution: Use clear introductions, topic sentences, and transitions between paragraphs to create a logical structure.
• Weak Thesis Statements
• Issue: A weak thesis can result in a lack of focus and direction in the paper.
• Solution: Craft a strong, clear thesis that presents the main argument or purpose of the paper.
• Issue: Using someone else’s ideas, words, or work without proper citation.
• Solution: Always give credit to sources through proper citation and paraphrasing, and understand when to quote directly.
• Inadequate Research
• Issue: Insufficient or unreliable sources can weaken the credibility of the work.
• Solution: Conduct thorough research using credible sources and critically evaluate the information.
• Grammar and Punctuation Errors
• Issue: Mistakes in grammar, punctuation, and spelling can distract from the message.
• Solution: Proofread carefully, use grammar guides, and consider seeking feedback from peers or instructors.

What Is The Best Way To Learn Academic Writing?

Learning academic writing is a skill that improves with practice and guidance. Here are some steps to help you master academic writing:

• Understand the Basics
• Familiarize yourself with the different types of academic writing: descriptive, analytical, persuasive, expository, and narrative.
• Learn about academic style guides (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago) for formatting, citations, and references.
• Read Academic Writing
• Read widely in your field of study to understand the style and structure of academic writing.
• Analyze how successful academic writers present their arguments, use evidence, and structure their work.
• Practice Regularly
• Start with simple exercises, such as summarizing articles or writing short essays.
• Gradually tackle more complex tasks, such as research papers or critical analyses.
• Seek Feedback
• Share your writing with peers, professors, or writing centers for constructive feedback.
• Use feedback to identify areas for improvement and refine your skills.
• Master Citations and References
• Learn how to properly cite sources according to the style guide used in your discipline.
• Understand the differences between paraphrasing, summarizing, and quoting sources.
• Focus on Clarity and Coherence
• Ensure your writing is clear, concise, and logically organized.
• Use topic sentences, transitions, and signposts to guide the reader through your argument.
• Edit and Revise
• Edit for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors.
• Revise for clarity, coherence, and strengthening of arguments.
• Utilize Writing Resources
• Take advantage of writing workshops, online resources, and style guides.
• Consider using writing software or apps to help with grammar checking and organization.
• Stay Persistent and Patient
• Academic writing is a skill that takes time to develop.
• Don’t get discouraged by challenges; view them as opportunities to improve.
• Immerse Yourself in Academic Discourse
• Engage in discussions, seminars, and conferences related to your field.
• Participate in writing groups or forums where you can discuss and learn from others.

Conclusion: Type Of Academic Writing

Understanding the type of academic writing is like having a versatile set of tools in your writing toolbox. Whether you’re crafting a research paper, arguing a point, or telling a story, choosing the right style enhances your message. So, next time you’re faced with an academic task, consider which tool—descriptive, analytical, persuasive, expository, or narrative—best suits the job. Happy writing!

In this journey through the world of academic writing, we’ve explored the purpose, characteristics, and examples of each type. Armed with this knowledge, you’re better equipped to tackle various assignments with confidence. Remember, the key to mastery is practice, so don’t hesitate to experiment with these styles in your own writing. Here’s to your success in the diverse landscape of academic writing!

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