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100 Persuasive Speech Topics for Students

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

There is a small but important difference between planning a persuasive speech and writing a persuasive essay. First, if you are planning a persuasive speech, you should think about a topic that can engage your audience. For this reason, you may want to consider a few topics before settling on the one that allows you to be more descriptive and entertaining.

Another important factor when picking a persuasive speech topic is to choose one that can provoke your audience. If you stir up a little emotion in your audience members, you'll keep their attention. The list below is provided to help you brainstorm. Choose a topic from this list or use the list to generate an idea of your own.

Studying martial arts is good for mind and health.
Competitive sports can teach us about life.
Reality shows are exploiting people.
Community service should be a graduation requirement for all high school students.
The characteristics that make a person a hero.
It's important to grow things in a garden.
Violent video games are dangerous.
Lyrics in a song can impact our lives.
Traveling and studying abroad are positive experiences.
Journal writing is therapeutic.
You should spend time with your grandparents.
A laptop is better than a tablet.
Religion and science can go hand in hand.
School uniforms are good.
All-female colleges and all-male colleges are bad.
Multiple choice tests are better than essay tests .
We should not spend money on space exploration.
Open-book tests are as effective as closed-book tests.
Security cameras keep us safer.
Parents should have access to students' grades.
Small classes are better than big classes.
You need to start saving for retirement now.
Credit cards are harmful to college students.
We should have a royal family.
We should protect endangered animals.
Texting while driving is dangerous.
You can write a novel.
Recycling should be required in the U.S.
State colleges are better than private colleges.
Private colleges are better than state colleges.
We should do away with penny coins.
Fast food containers hurt the environment.
Plastic straws are harmful to the environment.
You can eat and enjoy healthy snacks.
You can become a millionaire.
Dogs are better pets than cats.
You should own a bird.
It's unethical to keep birds in cages.
Liberal arts degrees prepare graduates to be better workers than other degrees.
Hunting animals should be banned.
Football is a dangerous sport.
School days should start later.
Night school is better than day school.
Technical training is better than a college degree.
Immigration laws should be more lenient.
Students should be able to choose their schools.
Everyone should learn to play a musical instrument.
Grass lawns should be prohibited.
Sharks should be protected.
We should do away with cars and go back to horse and carriage for transportation.
We should use more wind power.
We should pay more taxes.
We should do away with taxes.
Teachers should be tested like students.
We should not interfere in the affairs of other countries.
Every student should join a club.
Homeschooling is better than traditional schooling.
People should stay married for life.
Smoking in public should be illegal.
College students should live on campus .
Parents should let students fail.
Giving to charity is good.
Education makes us happier people.
The death penalty should be outlawed.
Bigfoot is real.
We should increase train travel to save the environment.
We should read more classic books.
Fame is bad for young children.
Athletes should stay loyal to teams.
We should reform our prisons.
Juvenile offenders should not go to boot camps.
Abraham Lincoln was the best president.
Abraham Lincoln gets too much credit.
Students should be allowed to have cell phones in elementary, middle, and high school.
College student-athletes should be paid for playing.
Elderly citizens on fixed income should receive free public transportation.
Colleges and universities should be free to attend.
All American citizens should complete one year of community service.
Students should be required to take Spanish classes.
Every student should be required to learn at least one foreign language .
Marijuana should be legal for recreational use nationwide.
Commercial testing of products on animals should no longer be allowed.
High school students should be required to participate in at least one team sport.
The drinking age in the U.S. should be 25.
Replacing fossil fuels with cheaper alternative energy options should be mandated.
Churches need to contribute their share of taxes.
The Cuba embargo should be maintained by the U.S.
America should replace income taxes with a nationwide flat tax.
Once they reach the age of 18, all U.S. citizens should be automatically registered to vote .
Doctor-assisted suicide should be legal.
Spammers—people who bombard the internet with unsolicited email—should be banned from sending junk mail.
Every automobile driver should be required to take a new driver's test every three years.
Electroshock treatment is not a humane form of therapy.
Global warming is not real.
Single-parent adoption should be encouraged and promoted.
Gun companies should be held accountable for gun crimes.
Human cloning is not moral.
Religion does not belong in public education.
Juveniles should not be tried as adults.
American workers should be guaranteed a three-day weekend by law.
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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!

103 Good Persuasive Speech Topics for Students in 2023

March 31, 2023

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

And if you’re craving more inspiration, feel free to check out this list of 85 Great Debate Topics , which can be used to generate further ideas.

What is a Persuasive Speech?

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

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

Components of a Great Persuasive Speech Topic

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

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

103 Persuasive Speech Topics

Should tech companies regulate the development of AI systems and automation to protect humans’ jobs?
Should we limit screen time for children?
Is it ethical for AI models like Dall-E to train themselves on artists’ work without the artists’ permission?
Should the government regulate the use of personal drones?
Is mass surveillance ethical? Does its threat to civil liberties outweigh its benefits?
Are virtual reality experiences a valuable educational tool?
Do the positive effects of powerful AI systems outweigh the risks?
Do voice assistants like Siri and Alexa invade individuals’ privacy?
Are cell phone bans in the classroom effective for improving student learning?
Does the use of facial recognition technology in public violate individuals’ privacy?

Business and Economy

Should we do away with the minimum wage? Why or why not?
Is it ethical for companies to use unpaid internships as a source of labor?
Does the gig economy benefit or harm workers?
Is capitalism the best economic system?
Is it ethical for companies to use sweatshops in developing countries?
Should the government provide free healthcare for all citizens?
Should the government regulate prices on pharmaceutical drugs?
Should the government enact a universal base income?
Should we legalize euthanasia?
Is it ethical to use animals for medical research?
Is it ethical to allow access to experimental treatments for terminally ill patients?
Should we allow genetic engineering in humans?
Is the death penalty obsolete?
Should we allow the cloning of humans?
Is it ethical to allow performance-enhancing drugs in sports?
Should the government limit how many children a couple can have?
Is spanking children an acceptable form of discipline?
Should we allow parents to choose their children’s physical attributes through genetic engineering?
Should we require parents to vaccinate their children?
Should we require companies to give mandatory paternal and maternal leave?

Social Media

Should social media platforms ban political ads?
Do the benefits of social media outweigh the downsides?
Should the government hold social media companies responsible for hate speech on their platforms?
Is social media making us more or less social?
Do platforms like TikTok exacerbate mental health issues in teens?
Should the government regulate social media to protect citizens’ privacy?
Is it right for parents to monitor their children’s social media accounts?
Should social media companies enact a minimum user age restriction?
Should we require social media companies to protect user data?
Should we hold social media companies responsible for cyberbullying?
Should schools ban the use of social media from their networks?

Education – Persuasive Speech Topics

Would trade schools and other forms of vocational training benefit a greater number of students than traditional institutions of higher education?
Should colleges use standardized testing in their admissions processes?
Is forcing students to say the Pledge a violation of their right to freedom of speech?
Should school districts offer bilingual education programs for non-native speakers?
Should schools do away with their physical education requirements?
Should schools incorporate a remote learning option into their curriculum?
Should we allow school libraries to ban certain books?
Should we remove historical figures who owned slaves from school textbooks and other educational materials?
Should colleges pay student athletes?
Should we ban violent contact sports like boxing and MMA?
Should sports leagues require professional athletes to stand during the national anthem?
Should sports teams ban players like Kyrie Irving when they spread misinformation or hate speech?
Should high schools require their athletes to maintain a certain GPA?
Should the Olympic committee allow transgender athletes to compete?
Should high schools ban football due to its safety risks to players?
In which renewable energy option would the US do best to invest?
Should the US prioritize space exploration over domestic initiatives?
Should companies with a high carbon footprint be punished?
Should the FDA ban GMOs?
Would the world be a safer place without nuclear weapons?
Does AI pose a greater threat to humanity than it does the potential for advancement?

Social Issues – Persuasive Speech Topics

College education: should the government make it free for all?
Should we provide free healthcare for undocumented immigrants?
Is physician-assisted suicide morally justifiable?
Does social media have a negative impact on democracy?
Does cancel culture impede free speech?
Does affirmative action help or hinder minority groups in the workplace?
Should we hold public figures and celebrities to a higher standard of morality?

Politics and Government

Is the Electoral College still an effective way to elect the President of the US?
Should we allow judges to serve on the Supreme Court indefinitely?
Should the US establish a national gun registry?
Countries like Israel and China require all citizens to serve in the army. Is this a good or bad policy?
Should the police force require all its officers to wear body cameras while on duty?
Should the US invest in the development of clean meat as a sustainable protein source?
Should the US adopt ranked-choice voting?
Should institutions that profited from slavery provide reparations?

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Funny Persuasive Speech Topics

Should we allow pets to run for public office?
Does pineapple belong on pizza?
Would students benefit from schools swapping out desks with more comfortable seating arrangements (i.e., bean bag chairs and couches)?
Is procrastination the key to success?
Should Americans adopt British accents to sound more intelligent?
The age-old dilemma: cats or dogs?
Should meme creators receive royalties when their memes go viral?

Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics

Is the movie ranking system an effective way to evaluate the appropriateness of films?
Should the government place a “health tax” on junk food?
Is it ethical to create artificial life forms that are capable of complex emotions?
Should parents let children choose their own names?
Creating clones of ourselves to serve as organ donors: ethical or not?
Is it ethical to engineer humans to be better and more optimized than nature intended?
Should we adopt a universal language to communicate with people from all countries?
Should there be a penalty for people who don’t vote?

I’ve Chosen My Topic, Now What?

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

Putting Together a Successful Persuasive Speech, Step by Step

Research your topic. Read widely and smartly. Stick to credible sources, such as peer-reviewed articles, published books, government reports, textbooks, and news articles. The right sources and data will be necessary in helping you establish your authority. Take notes as you go.
Create an Outline. Your outline should include an introduction with a thesis statement, a body that uses evidence to elaborate and support your position while refuting any counterarguments, and a conclusion. The conclusion will both summarize the points made earlier and serve as your final chance to persuade your audience.
Write Your Speech . Use your outline to help you, as well as the data you’ve collected. Remember: this is not dry writing; this writing has a point of view, and that point of view is yours . Use anecdotes and examples to back up your argument. The essential components of this speech are logos (logic), ethos (credibility), and pathos (emotion). The ideal speech will use all three of these functions to draw the audience in and engage them.
Practice ! As Yoda says: “ Mastery, you seek. Practice, you must .” It sounds cheesy, but it’s true: the more you practice, the more confident you’ll be when it’s time to get up there. Read your speech out loud several times. Be sure to speak slowly and enunciate, and don’t be afraid to make eye contact with your listeners to stay connected.

Good Persuasive Speech Topics—Final Thoughts

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

High School Success

Lauren Green

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

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

General Education

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

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

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

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

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

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

It's a Topic People Care About

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

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

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

It Isn't Overdone

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

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

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

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

105 Topics for a Persuasive Speech

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

Arts/Culture

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

Government/Politics

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

Science/Environment

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

3 Bonus Tips for Crafting Your Persuasive Speech

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

Do Your Research

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

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

Consider All the Angles

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

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

Know Your Audience

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

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

Need more help with this topic? Check out Tutorbase!

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

More Resources for Writing Persuasive Speeches

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

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

Conclusion: Persuasive Speech Ideas

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

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

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

Do your research
Consider all the angles
Know your audience

What's Next?

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

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

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

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

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

Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points or your ACT score by 4 points? We've written a guide for each test about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download it for free now:

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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Home — Blog — Topic Ideas — 130 Inspiring Persuasive Speech Topics For Students

130 Inspiring Persuasive Speech Topics For Students

Definition of the Persuasive Speech

Before you explore various persuasive speech topics , let's take a quick look at the definition and learn what a persuasive speech is and how it can be identified in writing. As the title implies, a persuasive speech represents a type of speech that aims to persuade a person to believe in a certain concept or a notion. In some instances, a persuasive speech contains a call to action. A persuasive speech topic may deal with professional challenges, world events, and debates that can be political, commercial, legislative, or educational. Depending on what you study or research, the choices are basically unlimited! Therefore, let your inspiration run free, and ensure that you have at least one statement or argument that poses the ground for persuasion. Choose a certain idea, take a note about your take, and make it clear as you choose a competitive persuasive topic.

How to Compose an Excellent Persuasive Speech?

Regardless of what persuasive essay topics you may choose, specific structure rules will help you to achieve success and avoid confusion as you shape your ideas and make your speech inspiring and clear. Here are the main points to consider:

Choose a topic that inspires you and reflects your research objectives.
Narrow things down and do your best to define the goal of your speech.
Study your target audience and check whether your persuasive speech addresses their concerns.
Continue with the thesis statement representing your opinion or a certain notion.
Create an outline for your speech with the hook sentence in the introduction.
Provide facts from both sides of the debate.
Include at least three pieces of evidence for your writing.
Make a call to action in conclusion and repeat the main points.
Edit your speech for repetitions and grammar mistakes.
Proofread your speech aloud and check the readability factor twice.

List of Persuasive Speech Topics

Below is the list of 130 competitive persuasive speech essay topics you can use for brainstorming purposes as a speaker . Play with the wording of these persuasive speech examples , narrow things down, and choose the category that looks most suitable.

Persuasive Speech Topics for College

Here are some persuasive speech topics college style that you will find helpful:

College education should be made free or funded based on academic merits.
The problems of college debt are artificial and can be resolved.
The secret to college popularity: why fashion still matters in 2023?
The colleges represent the best ground for social movements.
Social media use among college students can benefit their studies.
College safety should be increased, and the parties must have stricter control.
American colleges are better than most European institutions regarding career chances.
Hybrid form of learning is the future of college education.
College bullying and the reasons why the cases of harassment are rarely reported.
The best ways to overcome college depression and anxiety.

Persuasive Speech About Art, Media, and Culture

Dealing with persuasive speech ideas , consider the field of art, media, and culture as one of the branches of science worth exploring. Here are some starting points worth checking:

Modern metal music has roots in the blues and classical music creations.
The older generation sometimes pays attention to the music we like.
Why do college bands remain popular?
The use of art exhibitions in colleges should be obligatory.
The cultural aspect of baseball popularity’s decline in the United States.
The wrong perception of wearing a hoodie: the cultural factor and misconceptions.
The use of social media helps to keep people alert to environmental issues.
Instagram influencers should not be considered journalists.
Video game culture should be considered a separate cultural trend.
Neuroscience and using artificial intelligence to write music will eliminate creativity.

Persuasive Speech About the Economy and Work

Now, if you are majoring in Business Management, studying the Economy, or working in the Financial sector, the following persuasive speech ideas will be quite helpful in keeping you inspired as you overcome initial confusion:

The concept of third-world countries is outdated and must be eliminated.
Cryptocurrencies are damaging to the American economy.
The phenomenon of economic wonder in Iceland is only possible because of the limited population.
Economic education must be an obligatory part of each academic curriculum.
Economic disparity in Afghanistan is caused by the current gender policies.
Workflow issues can be eliminated with the help of LMS platforms.
The challenges of employment in the United States during the pandemic could have been eliminated.
Most social campaigns these days are driven by the funds provided.
There is a man in the middle in every economic executive plan in business.
What are the pros and cons of digital accounting systems, or why are pros speaking against them?

Persuasive Speech About Education

The problems encountered in education always remain a subject of heated debates as education poses a serious concern not among current learners and educators and everyone out there. Check these helpful topic ideas:

ADHD is an overhyped problem and can be addressed with the help of stricter discipline.
Dealing with PTSD and military veterans can be approached with the help of music education.
AI-based tools will never replace the physical teacher in the classroom.
Pandemic situation has shown us that virtual classrooms take away the sense of belonging.
Smartboards as the solution for shy primary school students.
The reasons why there is a negative bias concerning community colleges.
Why should you choose a Christian college for your education?
Handwriting is still an important skill that should not be ignored.
The pros and cons of the Waldorf schools education system.
Augmented Reality is a dangerous concept for middle schools.
The benefits of gamification in the development of cognitive skills.
The mechanisms that should be used for reporting teacher-student abuse.
The problem of gun control in the classrooms: do teachers have a right to carry a gun?
The racial prejudice in the business management schools in the USA: why it's still a problem.
Colleges in the United States should offer free mental coaching sessions.
The reasons why every student should consider becoming an app developer.
The subjects that should be added to a modern college education.
The practice of exchange students leads to a lack of adjustability in the native country.
Females represent better specialists in the cyber security field.
The phenomenon of college athletes: why should they be treated just like anyone else?

Mental Health Persuasive Speech Topics

Dealing with mental health subjects is quite complex. If you are majoring in Healthcare and Psychology, you must remember to be respectful and sensitive as you make your choice and portray a viewpoint :

Why is depression often overlooked as a serious mental health problem?
Social media addiction leads to negative body image issues and wrong perceptions.
The phenomenon of bloggers creates a false impression of instant success.
Childhood abuse recovery: why do the survivors often keep silent?
Schools and colleges in the United States must introduce strict mental health screening.
The negative effect of violent media games on children.
British medical ethics versus American perception of mental health.
LGBT movement and dealing with mental health issues is a unique concept worth exploring.
YouTube mental health courses as a free alternative to commercial offerings.
Armed conflicts lead to prolonged mental health issues in the future.

Business Persuasive Speech Topics

Business marketing and business management also represent a popular field of science for composing an excellent persuasive speech essay. Just take a look at these example ideas :

Why is starting a business as a college student worth it in 2023?
Digital marketing is always the problem of brand loyalty and switching.
Social media and website localization: why should modern businesses implement the practice?
Doing business in China: what are the cultural points worth considering?
Why joining a free business course online will make you a better learner.
The business aspect of the Black Lives Matter social movement.
The male vs. female perception of a successful business in the IT sector.
The use of virtual reality tools to study the target market: a fashion case study.
British versus American understanding of corporate ethics.
Politics have no place in the retail business.

Medical Persuasive Speech Topics

The medical and nursing students will find these persuasive speech ideas quite helpful and interesting :

The problems of the NHS system in the United Kingdom.
The pros and cons of the ObamaCare healthcare campaign.
What are the best methods to overcome professional burnout for nursing personnel?
The most common challenges of the ER nursing department: ethics vs. personal safety.
The readiness for the future risks: analysis of the pandemic threats.
Covid-19 has helped to make our world a safer place.
Why should medical volunteering be developed in 2023?
Technology is not always helpful if it's not accessible in remote areas.
Dealing with religious beliefs when offering medical help.
The limitations when reporting suspected abuse: why the changes must be introduced?

Scientific Persuasive Speech Topics

In case you want to choose something complex and scientific, these ten persuasive speech topic offerings will help to keep you inspired:

Augmented Reality tools usage will help people with learning disabilities learn.
The link between the vaccination risks and the cases of autism among children.
The psychological aspect of using painkillers and the damage to the person's system.
Exploration of nuclear Physics remains useless for most people today.
The negative side of the Green Energy transformation.
Politics should have no place in the scientific community.
An ethical aspect of genetically modified foods is ignored because of the lower costs.
The scientific benefits of uniting physically challenged students with healthy learners.
The positive effect of blues music on the human brain: the cardio wave effect.
Social media changes how communication takes things to another level.

Sports Persuasive Speech Topics

If you are a college athlete or majoring in the field of Sports Coaching and Recreational Medicine, you should consider checking these ten persuasive speech subjects that we have chosen for you:

The best ways to manage stress when you become enrolled as a college athlete.
Playing sports in college helps to eliminate depression and anxiety risks.
College sports must be an obligatory part of the curriculum without grading.
The history of college basketball in the United States helped to shape numerous subcultures.
The social aspect of sports and communication among middle school and primary school learners.
The use of sports to challenge substance abuse in the workplace.
Why does politics have no place in sports, and why should athletes be allowed to compete?
Tennis represents one of the best sports to help people maintain cardiovascular health.
Why should playing golf be made more accessible for people with low income?
Playing sports in college helps to address weight gain issues and improve a person's mood.

Family Persuasive Speech Topics

You can also approach the subject of family relations or talk about the values important to you. Check out these ten ideas below:

The values of the methodist church in the United States and their perception of family.
Stay Together For The Kids tour or how alternative rock bands contribute to family values.
The perception of family times during the Victorian Era.
Why is social media changing how children perceive their parents and grandparents?
Resolution of family conflicts can be resolved with the help of mediation techniques.
The psychology of domestic abuse in the Middle East: why are cultural points not likely to change?
The practice of boarding schools in the United Kingdom and overcoming homesickness.
The challenges of becoming independent when leaving home for college are overrated.
Family problems or growing up in a broken home should not be considered a reason for stigmatization.
The American Dream concept is still relevant for the majority of American families.

Persuasive Speech About Politics and Society

Dealing with politics and society may sound easy, yet it often asks you to narrow things down and provide data from both sides of the debate to keep your position clear. See how it's done in the ten political persuasive speech ideas below:

The concept of the Cold War is more relevant for our times than ever.
Celebrities should not become involved in political campaigns and stay true to the art.
Most American television networks are run by private funds and offer biased information.
The phenomenon of West-Coast and East-Coast politics in the United States is artificial.
Politics and church should not mix, and why religion should not become a part of the conflict.
Racial prejudice in the United States is rooted in wrong politics.
The cultural perception of Canada by an average American is often incorrect.
Marijuana use should be banned as a society cannot control it adequately.
School students should be allowed to vote, starting at 13 years old.
The use of political agendas in colleges should be banned.

Government Persuasive Speech Topics

Now, some students will seek something related to governmental studies or legislation as a way to create their persuasive speech essays. As a way to help you out, here are the subjects for speeches you can start with:

The U.S. government should raise the age limit for the use of alcohol and tobacco.
The controversies related to the military budget of the United States should be turned into a public discussion.
The concept of political immunity and diplomacy should be eliminated as it takes responsibility away.
The government should decrease immigration to the United States.
Politicians should have an obligatory education related to Law and Political Sciences.
Famous media personalities should approach the external politics of the United States.
Governmental support and the problem of cheating with college scholarships.
The problem of racial prejudice could be eliminated with the help of a different political agenda.
The concept of luxury taxing should not be obligatory for celebrities if they participate in charity campaigns.
The reasons why children should learn Political Science and government structure in school.

Discover Thousands of Free Essay Samples!

Getting your persuasive speech done can be quite challenging, so we have created a list of new topics you may consider. Still, you should see the actual essay examples, which we are happy to offer! Depending on the subject you would like to explore in greater depth for your persuasive speech (or any other purpose!), you can always refer to our free database, where you can find amazing essays and topics.

Our website offers thousands of topics that keywords or subjects can check. These represent essays you can use for inspirational purposes as you compose your persuasive speech. If you are unsure about something , you can always get in touch with our team, and we shall happily direct you toward something that fits your academic objectives.

Read your grading rubric twice, or hit us up with your questions! You must be inspired by what you choose because it is the only way to persuade others. Make sure to clarify your point and convince your target audience that your thoughts and ideas are worth checking and following!

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75 Persuasive Speech Topics and Ideas

October 4, 2018 - Gini Beqiri

To write a captivating and persuasive speech you must first decide on a topic that will engage, inform and also persuade the audience. We have discussed how to choose a topic and we have provided a list of speech ideas covering a wide range of categories.

What is persuasive speech?

The aim of a persuasive speech is to inform, educate and convince or motivate an audience to do something. You are essentially trying to sway the audience to adopt your own viewpoint.

The best persuasive speech topics are thought-provoking, daring and have a clear opinion. You should speak about something you are knowledgeable about and can argue your opinion for, as well as objectively discuss counter-arguments.

How to choose a topic for your speech

It’s not easy picking a topic for your speech as there are many options so consider the following factors when deciding.

Familiarity

Topics that you’re familiar with will make it easier to prepare for the speech.

It’s best if you decide on a topic in which you have a genuine interest in because you’ll be doing lots of research on it and if it’s something you enjoy the process will be significantly easier and more enjoyable. The audience will also see this enthusiasm when you’re presenting which will make the speech more persuasive.

The audience’s interest

The audience must care about the topic. You don’t want to lose their attention so choose something you think they’ll be interested in hearing about.

Consider choosing a topic that allows you to be more descriptive because this allows the audience to visualize which consequently helps persuade them.

Not overdone

When people have heard about a topic repeatedly they’re less likely to listen to you as it doesn’t interest them anymore. Avoid cliché or overdone topics as it’s difficult to maintain your audience’s attention because they feel like they’ve heard it all before.

An exception to this would be if you had new viewpoints or new facts to share. If this is the case then ensure you clarify early in your speech that you have unique views or information on the topic.

Emotional topics

Emotions are motivators so the audience is more likely to be persuaded and act on your requests if you present an emotional topic.

People like hearing about issues that affect them or their community, country etc. They find these topics more relatable which means they find them more interesting. Look at local issues and news to discover these topics.

Desired outcome

What do you want your audience to do as a result of your speech? Use this as a guide to choosing your topic, for example, maybe you want people to recycle more so you present a speech on the effect of microplastics in the ocean.

Persuasive speech topics

Lots of timely persuasive topics can be found using social media, the radio, TV and newspapers. We have compiled a list of 75 persuasive speech topic ideas covering a wide range of categories.

Some of the topics also fall into other categories and we have posed the topics as questions so they can be easily adapted into statements to suit your own viewpoint.

Should pets be adopted rather than bought from a breeder?
Should wild animals be tamed?
Should people be allowed to own exotic animals like monkeys?
Should all zoos and aquariums be closed?

Arts/Culture

Should art and music therapy be covered by health insurance?
Should graffiti be considered art?
Should all students be required to learn an instrument in school?
Should automobile drivers be required to take a test every three years?
Are sports cars dangerous?
Should bicycles share the roads with cars?
Should bicycle riders be required by law to always wear helmets?

Business and economy

Do introverts make great leaders?
Does owning a business leave you feeling isolated?
What is to blame for the rise in energy prices?
Does hiring cheaper foreign employees hurt the economy?
Should interns be paid for their work?
Should employees receive bonuses for walking or biking to work?
Should tipping in restaurants be mandatory?
Should boys and girls should be taught in separate classrooms?
Should schools include meditation breaks during the day?
Should students be allowed to have their mobile phones with them during school?
Should teachers have to pass a test every decade to renew their certifications?
Should online teaching be given equal importance as the regular form of teaching?
Is higher education over-rated?
What are the best ways to stop bullying?
Should people with more than one DUI lose their drivers’ licenses?
Should prostitution be legalised?
Should guns be illegal in the US?
Should cannabis be legalised for medical reasons?
Is equality a myth?
Does what is “right” and “wrong” change from generation to generation?
Is there never a good enough reason to declare war?
Should governments tax sugary drinks and use the revenue for public health?
Has cosmetic surgery risen to a level that exceeds good sense?
Is the fast-food industry legally accountable for obesity?
Should school cafeterias only offer healthy food options?
Is acupuncture a valid medical technique?
Should assisted suicide be legal?
Does consuming meat affect health?
Is dieting a good way to lose weight?

Law and politics

Should voting be made compulsory?
Should the President (or similar position) be allowed to serve more than two terms?
Would poverty reduce by fixing housing?
Should drug addicts be sent for treatment in hospitals instead of prisons?
Would it be fair for the government to detain suspected terrorists without proper trial?
Is torture acceptable when used for national security?
Should celebrities who break the law receive stiffer penalties?
Should the government completely ban all cigarettes and tobacco products
Is it wrong for the media to promote a certain beauty standard?
Is the media responsible for the moral degradation of teenagers?
Should advertising be aimed at children?
Has freedom of press gone too far?
Should prayer be allowed in public schools?
Does religion have a place in government?
How do cults differ from religion?

Science and the environment

Should recycling be mandatory?
Should genetically modified foods be sold in supermarkets?
Should parents be allowed to choose the sex of their unborn children?
Should selling plastic bags be completely banned in shops?
Should smoking in public places be banned?
Should professional female athletes be paid the same as male athletes in the same sport?
Should doping be allowed in professional sports?
Should schools be required to teach all students how to swim?
How does parental pressure affect young athletes?
Will technology reduce or increase human employment opportunities?
What age should children be allowed to have mobile phones?
Should libraries be replaced with unlimited access to e-books?
Should we recognize Bitcoin as a legal currency?
Should bloggers and vloggers be treated as journalists and punished for indiscretions?
Has technology helped connect people or isolate them?
Should mobile phone use in public places be regulated?
Do violent video games make people more violent?

World peace

What is the safest country in the world?
Is planetary nuclear disarmament possible?
Is the idea of peace on earth naive?

These topics are just suggestions so you need to assess whether they would be suitable for your particular audience. You can easily adapt the topics to suit your interests and audience, for example, you could substitute “meat” in the topic “Does consuming meat affect health?” for many possibilities, such as “processed foods”, “mainly vegan food”, “dairy” and so on.

After choosing your topic

After you’ve chosen your topic it’s important to do the following:

Research thoroughly
Think about all of the different viewpoints
Tailor to your audience – discussing your topic with others is a helpful way to gain an understanding of your audience.
How involved are you with this topic – are you a key character?
Have you contributed to this area, perhaps through blogs, books, papers and products.
How qualified are you to speak on this topic?
Do you have personal experience in it? How many years?
How long have you been interested in the area?

While it may be difficult to choose from such a variety of persuasive speech topics, think about which of the above you have the most knowledge of and can argue your opinion on.

For advice about how to deliver your persuasive speech, check out our blog Persuasive Speech Outline and Ideas .

Persuasive Speech

Persuasive Speech Topics

Good Persuasive Speech Topics & Ideas for Debaters

18 min read

What is a Persuasive Speech?

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

Components of a Great Persuasive Speech Topic

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

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

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

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

Persuasive Speech Topics for Students

Wondering what some good topics for a persuasive speech are?

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

Unique Persuasive Speech Topics for University Students

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

Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics for College Students

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

Best Persuasive Speech Topics for High School Students

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

Science and Technology Persuasive Speech Topics

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

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Environment Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Health and Medicine Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Mental Health Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Bioethics Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Economy and Work Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Persuasive Speech Topics About Media

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

Persuasive Speech Topics About Government and International Relations

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

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Policy Speech Topics for Students

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

Law and Politics Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Persuasive Speech Topics on Business

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

Public Speaking Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Arts and Culture Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Religion Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Sports Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Persuasive Speech Topics About Automotive

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

Persuasive Speech Topics About Travel

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

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Persuasive Speech Topics About Music & Fashion

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

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics About Education

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

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Persuasive Speech Topics About Workplace

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

Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Great Persuasive Speech Topics for Teens

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

Persuasive Speech Topics for Kids

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

Persuasive Speech Topics Related to Food and Beverages

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

Funny Persuasive Speech Topics

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

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

Persuasive Speech Topics About Animals

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

Controversial Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Family Persuasive Speech Topics

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

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What Makes A Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

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

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

How To Create And Deliver A Compelling Persuasive Speech

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

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

Let’s sum it up!

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Keep reading

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

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

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

🔝 Top 10 Persuasive Speech Topics in 2024

✍️ persuasive speech outline, 😊 easy persuasive speech topics.

🎒 Speech Topics for High School
🎓 Speech Topics for College

⭐ Good Persuasive Speech Topics

💊 medical persuasive speech topics.

🍃 Environmental Speech Topics

⚖️ Ethical Persuasive Speech Topics

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

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

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

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

🎒 Persuasive Speech Topics for High School

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

🎓 Persuasive Speech Topics for College

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

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

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

Persuasive Speech Topics about Music

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

Sports Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Social Media Persuasive Speech Topics

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

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

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

Mental Health Persuasive Speech Topics

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

This image lists common myths about mental health.

Psychology Persuasive Speech Topics

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

🍃 Environmental Persuasive Speech Topics

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

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

This image shows environmental issues to argue about.

Persuasive Speech Topics about Food

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

Persuasive Speech Topics About Animals

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

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

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

Business Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Political Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Persuasive Speech Topics About Education

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

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

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

This image shows current problems with possible solutions.

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

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

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

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

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

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

What Is a Persuasive Speech?

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

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech?

Various qualities characterize effective persuasive speeches:

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

What to Write a Persuasive Speech on?

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

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

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

What Are Good Persuasive Speech Topics?

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

110+ Controversial Debate Topics to Challenge Your Students | We Are Teachers
100 Persuasive Essay Topics | ThoughtCo
Keeping Your Speech Moving | Stand Up, Speak Out
Persuasive Speeches | Public Speaking as Performance
Persuasive Speaking | University of Pittsburgh
Persuasive Speaking | Communication in the Real World
105 Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics for Any Project | PrepScholar
Appendix A: Persuasive Speech Topic Ideas | Principles of Public Speaking
Top 10 Controversial Psychiatric Disorders | LiveScience
Mental Health Myths and Facts | SAMHSA
Select a Research Topic: Current Events and Controversial Issues | Southern Adventist University
Persuasive Speeches: What Are You Questioning? | UNC Greensboro
100 Persuasive Speech Topics for Students | ThoughtCo
Persuasive Speech Topics on Relationships | Classroom
Unique Persuasive Speech Topics for College | YourDictionary
How to Slay Your Speech | University of Alaska Fairbanks
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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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125+ Persuasive Speech Topics To Amaze Your Audience

Reviewed by:

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 12/15/23

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

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

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

Keep reading for 125+ persuasive speech topics.

125+ Topics for a Persuasive Speech

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

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

1. Arts & Culture

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

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

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

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

2. Economics

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

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

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

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

3. Education

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

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

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

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

4. Environment

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Politics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Technology

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

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

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

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

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

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

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

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

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

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

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

FAQs: Persuasive Speech Topics

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

1. What Are Some Easy Persuasive Topics?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Final Thoughts

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

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

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220+ Persuasive Speech Topics For All Students (Updated 2023)

Whether you’re a student preparing for a class presentation or an aspiring public speaker looking to captivate audiences, choosing the right persuasive speech topic is crucial. However, the process can be overwhelming, with countless possibilities to consider. Fear not! In this blog, we’ll delve into the world of persuasive speech topics, unravelling a treasure trove of ideas that are both impactful and easy to understand.

From pressing social issues to intriguing debates, we’ll explore a wide array of subjects that will not only engage your audience but also leave a lasting impression. So, let’s embark on this journey together, and unlock the power of persuasive speech!

Table of Contents

What To Keep In Mind While Selecting Persuasive Speech Topics

When selecting persuasive speech topics, it’s important to keep several key factors in mind:

Audience Relevance

Consider the interests, beliefs, and concerns of your audience. Choose a topic that resonates with them and is relevant to their lives or the larger community.

Personal Interest

Select a topic that you are genuinely passionate about. Your enthusiasm will shine through in your speech and engage your audience more effectively.

Knowledge and Expertise

Choose a topic that you have a good understanding of or are willing to research extensively. It’s important to present accurate information and back your arguments with evidence.

Controversy and Debate

Opt for topics that have varying viewpoints or invite discussion. Controversial subjects often spark interest and encourage audience engagement.

Impactful and Timely

Consider selecting a topic that addresses a pressing issue or has societal relevance. Topics related to current events or ongoing debates can generate greater interest.

Strike a balance between being challenging and respectful. Avoid excessively sensitive or offensive topics that might alienate or upset your audience.

Feasibility

Ensure that the chosen topic can be effectively covered within the given time constraints of your speech. Select a topic that can be adequately explored and supported within the allocated time frame.

Remember, the ultimate goal of a persuasive speech is to inspire, educate, and motivate your audience. By keeping these considerations in mind, you can select a persuasive speech topic that captures attention, encourages thoughtful discourse, and leaves a lasting impact.

10+ Religion Persuasive Speech Topics

The Role of Religion in Shaping Moral Values.
Examining the Impact of Religious Freedom on Society.
Exploring the Controversy Surrounding Religion in Schools.
Addressing the Need for Interfaith Dialogue and Understanding.
Analysing the Relationship Between Religion and Science.
Discussing the Importance of Religious Tolerance and Acceptance.
The Ethics of Proselytising: Balancing Freedom of Religion and Respect for Others.
Investigating the Influence of Religion on Gender Equality.
Debating the Role of Religion in Politics and Governance.
Exploring the Challenges and Benefits of Religious Pluralism in a Globalised World.

10+ Persuasive Speech Topics About Music & Fashion

The Impact of Music on Mood and Emotions: Exploring the Power of Melody.
Fashion Industry’s Influence on Body Image and Self-Esteem: Redefining Beauty Standards.
Music Streaming Services: Revolutionising the Way We Discover and Enjoy Music.
The Cultural Significance of Fashion: Celebrating Diversity and Expression.
The Role of Music Education in Developing Creativity and Critical Thinking Skills.
Sustainable Fashion: Promoting Ethical and Eco-Friendly Clothing Choices.
Music as Therapy: Harnessing the Healing Power of Sound.
Fashion Trends: Unveiling the Social and Psychological Factors Behind Their Popularity.
The Evolution of Music Genres: Tracing the Influence of Historical and Cultural Movements.
Fast Fashion: Examining the Environmental and Social Consequences of Disposable Clothing.
Music and Memory: Exploring the Connection between Melodies and Recall.
Body Positivity Movement: Challenging Stereotypes and Promoting Acceptance in Fashion.

10+ Arts and Culture Persuasive Speech Topics

The Importance of Arts Education in Schools.
Preserving Cultural Heritage: The Need for Funding and Support.
The Power of Music Therapy: Promoting Mental Health and Well-being.
Addressing Gender Representation in the Film and Entertainment Industry.
The Role of Art in Promoting Social Change and Activism.
Art Censorship: Protecting Freedom of Expression and Creativity.
Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in the Arts and Cultural Sector.
Art as a Catalyst for Economic Growth and Tourism.
Exploring the Influence of Social Media on Art and Culture.
The Impact of Art on Individual and Community Identity.
Supporting Local Artists: Building Thriving Arts Communities.
The Relationship Between Art and Science: Fostering Innovation.
Art and Healing: The Therapeutic Benefits of Creative Expression.

10+ Government Persuasive Speech Topics

The Importance of Voting: Exercising Your Civic Duty.
Implementing Stricter Gun Control Laws for Public Safety.
Addressing Climate Change: The Urgency for Government Action.
The Need for Comprehensive Immigration Reform.
Promoting Equality: Ensuring LGBTQ+ Rights and Protections.
Combating Fake News: The Role of Government in Media Literacy.
Raising the Minimum Wage: Fighting Income Inequality.
Reforming the Criminal Justice System: Reducing Mass Incarceration.
Protecting Net Neutrality: Preserving an Open Internet.
Enhancing Access to Affordable Healthcare: A Government Responsibility.
Regulating Big Tech: Balancing Innovation and Consumer Protection.
Investing in Renewable Energy: Transitioning to a Sustainable Future.

10+ Family Persuasive Speech Topics

The Benefits of Family Dinners: Why Eating Together Matters.
Should Parents Allow Children to Use Social Media?
The Importance of Teaching Financial Responsibility to Kids.
Balancing Work and Family: Tips for Achieving Work-Life Balance.
The Effects of Divorce on Children and Strategies for Coping.
Addressing Domestic Violence: How Families Can Break the Cycle.
Homeschooling vs. Public Schooling: Which is the Better Option?
The Dangers of Helicopter Parenting and Letting Kids Fail.
The Impact of Technology on Family Relationships.
Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth in Family Environments.
The Pros and Cons of Having Only One Child.
Navigating Family Conflict: Strategies for Effective Communication.

10+ Environment Persuasive Speech Topics

The urgency of reducing plastic waste and embracing sustainable alternatives.
The impact of deforestation on climate change and biodiversity loss.
The need for stricter regulations on air pollution to combat respiratory diseases.
Promoting renewable energy sources to mitigate the effects of fossil fuel consumption.
The importance of water conservation in the face of increasing scarcity.
Addressing the detrimental effects of pesticide use on ecosystems and human health.
Raising awareness about the consequences of overfishing and the need for sustainable fishing practices.
The role of individuals and communities in combating climate change through small lifestyle changes.
The significance of preserving and protecting endangered species from extinction.
The importance of recycling and waste management in reducing environmental pollution.
Promoting sustainable agriculture practices to ensure food security and protect the environment.
The impact of urbanization on natural habitats and the importance of green spaces in cities.
Advocating for stricter regulations on industrial pollution to safeguard environmental and human health.
The benefits of promoting eco-tourism as a sustainable alternative to mass tourism.

10+ Sports Persuasive Speech Topics

The Importance of Physical Education Programs in Schools.
The Benefits of Youth Sports in Character Development.
The Need for Stricter Regulations in Professional Sports.
The Impact of Sports on Mental Health and Well-being.
Promoting Gender Equality in Sports: Breaking the Glass Ceiling.
The Dangers of Performance-Enhancing Drugs in Athletics.
Addressing the Issue of Concussions in Contact Sports.
The Role of Sports in Promoting Social Inclusion and Diversity.
The Influence of Sports Sponsorships on Athletes and Teams.
The Ethics of Animal Sports: Should They Be Banned?
The Debate on Paying College Athletes: Fair Compensation or Exploitation?
The Role of Sports in Fostering Teamwork and Leadership Skills.
Promoting Sports as a Tool for Conflict Resolution and Diplomacy.
The Impact of Technology on Sports: Enhancing Performance or Diminishing Fairness?
The Significance of Title IX in Advancing Women’s Sports.

10+ Education Persuasive Speech Topics

The importance of incorporating financial literacy in school curricula.
Addressing the need for comprehensive sex education in schools.
Promoting the benefits of arts education for well-rounded development.
The significance of teaching critical thinking skills in the digital age.
Implementing mindfulness and mental health education in schools.
Bridging the gender gap in STEM education and careers.
The value of inclusive education for students with disabilities.
Promoting cultural diversity and inclusivity in educational institutions.
Addressing the impact of standardized testing on students’ well-being.
The role of technology in transforming traditional classroom learning.
Promoting environmental education for a sustainable future.
Advocating for comprehensive anti-bullying policies and education in schools.
The benefits of bilingual education in a globalized world.
Encouraging physical education and healthy lifestyles in schools.

10+ Scientific Persuasive Speech Topics

The Importance of Vaccinations: Protecting Public Health Through Immunization.
Climate Change: Urgency for Global Action to Combat Rising Temperatures.
The Benefits of Renewable Energy Sources: Transitioning Towards a Sustainable Future.
Exploring the Potential of Stem Cell Research in Advancing Medical Treatments.
Artificial Intelligence: Balancing its Potential Benefits and Ethical Concerns.
The Role of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) in Addressing Food Security.
Space Exploration: Unraveling the Mysteries of the Universe and Expanding Human Knowledge.
The Impact of Plastic Pollution on Marine Ecosystems: Seeking Sustainable Solutions.
The Power of Meditation: Enhancing Mental Well-being and Cognitive Abilities.
Human Cloning: Ethical Implications and Scientific Advancements.
Nanotechnology: Unleashing the Potential of Tiny Innovations in Various Industries.
The Influence of Social Media on Mental Health: Promoting Digital Well-being.

10+ Video Games Persuasive Speech Topics

The Impact of Violent Video Games on Youth Behavior.
How Video Games Promote Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking Skills.
The Benefits of Video Games in Enhancing Cognitive Abilities.
The Role of Video Games in Fostering Social Connections and Collaboration.
Exploring the Educational Potential of Video Games in the Classroom.
Addressing Video Game Addiction: Recognizing the Signs and Seeking Help.
The Positive Effects of Video Games on Mental Health and Well-being.
Video Games as a Tool for Rehabilitation and Therapy.
Debunking Stereotypes: Gender Representation in Video Games.
The Influence of Video Games on Body Image and Self-Esteem.
Examining the Link Between Video Games and Increased Physical Activity.
The Ethical Implications of Loot Boxes and In-Game Purchases in Video Games.

10+ Public Speaking Persuasive Speech Topics

The Importance of Mental Health Awareness in Schools.
The Impact of Social Media on Society.
Promoting Renewable Energy for a Sustainable Future.
The Need for Stricter Gun Control Laws.
Raising Awareness about Climate Change and Its Consequences.
Addressing the Gender Pay Gap in the Workplace.
Combating Cyberbullying: Creating a Safer Online Environment.
The Benefits of Implementing Comprehensive Sex Education in Schools.
Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace.
The Importance of Voting: Exercising Your Democratic Rights.
Ending Animal Testing: Advancing Ethical Research Alternatives.
Tackling Food Waste: Promoting Sustainable Consumption Habits.
The Impact of Plastic Pollution on Marine Life and Ecosystems.
Encouraging Organ Donation: Saving Lives through Generosity.
Breaking the Stigma: Raising Awareness about Mental Illness.

10+ Medical Persuasive Speech Topics

The Importance of Vaccinations: Debunking Myths and Promoting Public Health.
The Ethics of Organ Transplantation: Balancing Supply and Demand.
Addressing the Opioid Crisis: Strategies for Prevention and Treatment.
Promoting Mental Health: Breaking the Silence and Ending Stigma.
Advancements in Precision Medicine: Personalizing Healthcare for Better Outcomes.
The Role of Telemedicine in Improving Access to Healthcare.
Enhancing Patient Safety: Preventing Medical Errors in Healthcare Settings.
Promoting Healthy Lifestyles: Combating Obesity and Chronic Diseases.
The Benefits of Integrative Medicine: Bridging Conventional and Alternative Approaches.
Exploring the Impact of Technology on Healthcare Delivery.
Promoting Sexual Health Education: Empowering Individuals to Make Informed Choices.
The Importance of Early Detection: Screenings for Cancer and Other Diseases.
The Role of Medical Research in Advancing Treatment and Finding Cures.

10+ Business Persuasive Speech Topics

The Benefits of Implementing Flexible Work Arrangements in Companies.
Promoting Ethical Practices in Business: Combating Corruption and Fraud.
The Role of Corporate Social Responsibility in Building a Positive Brand Image.
Fostering Innovation and Creativity in the Workplace.
The Advantages of Embracing Diversity in Business Teams.
Harnessing the Power of Technology for Enhanced Customer Experience.
Promoting Work-Life Balance: Improving Employee Well-being and Productivity.
The Importance of Effective Leadership in Driving Organizational Success.
Addressing Workplace Gender Inequality: Achieving Gender Balance in Leadership Roles.
The Benefits of Investing in Employee Training and Development Programs.
Promoting Sustainable Business Practices: Environmental Responsibility and Profitability.
Exploring the Advantages of Implementing Remote Work Policies.
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Business Operations and Job Market.
Nurturing a Positive Company Culture: The Key to Employee Engagement and Retention.
The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Effective Business Communication.

10+ Mental Health Persuasive Speech Topics

Prioritizing Mental Health Education in Schools: Nurturing Emotional Well-being from an Early Age.
Overcoming the Stigma: Promoting Open Discussions on Mental Health in Communities.
The Need for Increased Accessibility to Mental Health Services: Breaking Barriers to Care.
Mental Health in the Workplace: Creating Supportive and Productive Environments.
Raising Awareness about Suicide Prevention: Saving Lives through Compassion and Understanding.
Addressing the Impact of Social Media on Mental Health: Finding Balance in the Digital Age.
Breaking Down Gender Stereotypes in Mental Health: Encouraging Emotional Expression for All.
Promoting Self-Care Practices for Mental Well-being: Nurturing a Healthy Mindset.
Combating Mental Health Stigma among College Students: Fostering Supportive Campus Communities.
The Role of Exercise and Physical Activity in Enhancing Mental Health: A Holistic Approach to Well-being.

10+ Persuasive Essay Topics About Animals

The Ethics of Animal Testing: Finding Alternatives for Scientific Research.
Protecting Endangered Species: Preserving Biodiversity for Future Generations.
The Cruelty of Animal Circuses: Advocating for a Ban on Animal Entertainment.
Animal Agriculture and Environmental Impact: Promoting Sustainable Food Choices.
The Importance of Animal Adoption: Encouraging Responsible Pet Ownership.
Ban on Trophy Hunting: Preserving Wildlife and Ecosystems.
Animal Rights in Entertainment: Ending the Use of Animals in Films and Shows.
The Ethics of Zoos: Rethinking Captivity and Animal Welfare.
Animal Experimentation: Promoting Ethical Guidelines and Oversight.
Fur Industry: Advocating for Cruelty-Free Fashion and Alternatives.
Marine Captivity: Ending the Keeping of Whales and Dolphins in Theme Parks.
The Link Between Animal Cruelty and Violence Against Humans: Strengthening Laws and Awareness.
Factory Farming: Promoting Humane Treatment of Farm Animals.
The Role of Animal-Assisted Therapy in Improving Human Well-being.
Wildlife Conservation: Combating Illegal Wildlife Trade and Poaching.

10+ Persuasive Speech Topics for College

The Benefits of Financial Literacy Education for College Students.
Promoting Mental Health Support Services on College Campuses.
Addressing the Issue of Campus Sexual Assault: Ensuring Safety and Justice.
The Importance of Ethical Consumption: Making Sustainable Choices in College.
Encouraging Diversity in Higher Education: Embracing Inclusion on Campus.
Combatting the Rising Costs of College Education: Exploring Solutions for Affordability.
Promoting Healthy Lifestyles: Encouraging Exercise and Nutrition in College.
The Need for Comprehensive Sexual Consent Education in College.
Fostering Entrepreneurship and Innovation in College Education.
Empowering Students to Combat Fake News: Promoting Media Literacy on Campus.

10+ Unique Persuasive Topics

The Power of Empathy: Cultivating Compassion in Everyday Life.
Promoting Mindfulness: Finding Balance in a Fast-Paced World.
The Benefits of Outdoor Education: Nurturing a Connection with Nature.
Exploring the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence in the Modern Age.
Building Stronger Communities through Volunteerism and Civic Engagement.
The Importance of Financial Literacy: Empowering Individuals for a Secure Future.
Unveiling the Truth: The Role of Media Literacy in an Era of Misinformation.
Redefining Beauty Standards: Embracing Body Positivity and Self-Acceptance.
Harnessing the Power of Positive Thinking: Cultivating a Growth Mindset.
The Impact of Arts Education: Fostering Creativity and Well-Being in Schools.

10+ Economic Persuasive Speech Topics

The Benefits of Implementing Universal Basic Income.
Exploring the Impact of Globalization on Job Markets.
Addressing Income Inequality: Closing the Wage Gap.
The Role of Government Regulation in Promoting Fair Competition.
Promoting Sustainable Economic Growth through Green Initiatives.
The Importance of Financial Literacy Education in Schools.
Exploring the Pros and Cons of Minimum Wage Increases.
The Impact of Automation on the Future of the Workforce.
The Economic Benefits of Investing in Renewable Energy.
Examining the Effects of Trade Wars on Global Economies.
The Role of Entrepreneurship in Stimulating Economic Development.
Analyzing the Economic Implications of Immigration Policies.
The Significance of Economic Diplomacy in International Relations.
The Influence of Consumer Behavior on the Economy.
Exploring the Economics of Healthcare: Challenges and Solutions.

10+ Ethics Persuasive Speech Topics

The Ethical Implications of Artificial Intelligence in Today’s Society.
Animal Rights: Promoting Ethical Treatment and Protection.
Ethical Considerations in Genetic Engineering and Human Enhancement.
The Ethics of Capital Punishment: Examining the Death Penalty.
The Moral Dilemma of Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide.
Ethical Issues Surrounding Privacy and Data Protection in the Digital Age.
Corporate Social Responsibility: Ethical Business Practices for a Sustainable Future.
Ethical Implications of Cloning and Genetic Manipulation.
The Ethics of Animal Testing: Balancing Scientific Progress and Animal Welfare.
Ethical Considerations in Medical Research: Informed Consent and Participant Rights.
The Ethics of Privacy Invasion: Surveillance in the Name of Security.
Ethical Challenges in the Age of Big Data and Data Mining.
The Moral Debate of Physician-Assisted Death and End-of-Life Care.
Ethical Implications of Human Trafficking: Combating Modern-Day Slavery.
Ethical Issues in Globalization: Balancing Economic Growth and Social Justice.

How To Craft Persuasive Speech?

Remember, this is just a template, and you can modify and adapt it according to your specific speech topic and requirements.

An Example Of Persuasive Speech Topic

Title: the importance of volunteering in our community.

Introduction:

Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen,

Today, I stand before you to shed light on a topic that is close to my heart: the importance of volunteering in our community. We often get caught up in the busyness of our lives, but it is crucial to take a step back and recognize the profound impact we can have when we extend a helping hand. Through volunteering, we not only improve the lives of others but also enrich our own. Let’s explore how giving our time, skills, and compassion can make a lasting difference in our community.

Building Stronger Communities:

Volunteering fosters a sense of belonging and strengthens the fabric of our community. By working together towards a common goal, we forge meaningful connections and create a support system that benefits everyone involved. Whether it’s cleaning up local parks, organizing food drives, or mentoring youth, our collective efforts can transform neighborhoods and create a positive ripple effect.

Making a Difference in Individual Lives:

Each act of volunteering has the power to touch someone’s life in ways we may never fully comprehend. From offering a listening ear at a homeless shelter to tutoring underprivileged children, we have the ability to empower and uplift individuals facing adversity. Our actions can instill hope, provide opportunities, and inspire others to believe in their own potential.

Personal Growth and Development:

Volunteering is not just about giving; it is also an incredible avenue for personal growth. As we step outside our comfort zones and engage with diverse communities, we develop empathy, compassion, and a broader perspective on life. Volunteering allows us to hone our skills, learn new ones, and build a strong sense of self-esteem. It is an investment in ourselves that pays dividends in personal and professional spheres.

Addressing Social Issues:

Our community faces numerous social challenges, from poverty to environmental degradation. Through volunteering, we become agents of change, actively working to address these pressing issues. By dedicating our time and resources to organizations and causes that align with our values, we contribute to the collective efforts of creating a more equitable and sustainable world.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, ladies and gentlemen, volunteering is not a mere act of kindness; it is a transformative force that can shape our community and ourselves. By embracing the spirit of giving, we build stronger communities, make a profound impact on individual lives, experience personal growth, and contribute to solving societal issues. I urge each one of you to find a cause that resonates with you, explore volunteering opportunities, and embark on this incredible journey of service. Together, let’s make a lasting difference in our community, one selfless act at a time.

In conclusion, persuasive speech topics hold immense power to shape opinions, provoke critical thinking, and inspire action. Throughout this blog, we have explored a wide range of persuasive speech topics, covering social issues, ethics, and public speaking.

Remember that when selecting a persuasive speech topic, it is crucial to consider the audience’s relevance, your personal interest, and the potential impact of the topic. Crafting a persuasive speech involves engaging the audience through a compelling introduction, presenting well-supported arguments, addressing counter arguments, and concluding with a strong call to action.

By utilizing these techniques, you can effectively deliver a persuasive speech that leaves a lasting impression and drives positive change. So, embrace the art of persuasive communication, be the voice of change, and make your words resonate in the hearts and minds of your audience.

Together, let’s harness the power of persuasive speech to create a better, more informed, and compassionate world.

206 Great Speech Topics for Teens [Persuasive, Informative]

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.

List of Speech Topics for Teens

Pick from our long list of 200+ interesting speech topics for teens. This page includes both persuasive and informative speech topic ideas.

“Divorce” should be possible between parents and their kids
It should be possible to choose your family
Why you don’t need money or cash
Why having siblings is a good thing
Monday should be the third day of a three-day weekend
Free access to a therapist after a breakup
Zombies are real
Being lazy is a true art
Why students should be allowed to choose what they learn about in school
There is plenty of truth to horoscopes
Why cell phone use should be allowed at school
Girls should be able to join boys sports teams
Junk food isn’t all that bad
Why homework does more harm than good
Staying in is the new sneaking out
Pets are far better to talk to than parents
Students should get iPads or Tablets rather than books
Eating should be allowed at any time during the school day
Study abroad should be available to students in high schools
Why sex education in school is so awkward and useless
More free time means more time to get into trouble
Teens should be taught practical skills in school
Teachers should be required to have a great sense of humor
There is nothing real about reality TV.
Practical skills must be taught at school.
Teens must tell their parents everything.
Personality matters far more than beauty.
Condoms mustn’t be handed out in schools.
All teens need a pet.
There is not enough rape and sexual assault prevention awareness.
It is okay for teens to sleep a lot.
Diet pills must not be easily available to teens anywhere.
Teenage girls should be forced to go back to school after having a baby.
Teen suicide is not given enough attention.
Cyberbullies must be dealt with more severely.
Homeschooled teens are socially awkward.
Teen boys and girls should be taught in separate classes.
Teen girls should have a say in regards to abortion.
Tattoos should be illegal for teens.
Teens that commit serious crimes should be charged as adults.
Teens wouldn’t be tempted to drink if there was no age restriction.
Yearly check-ups at gynecologists should be compulsory for teen girls.
More time should be spent reading.
Not enough is done to prevent teen pregnancy.
Magazines marketed at teens are too ‘grown up’.
The media is responsible for the moral decline of teens.
Teens must not get involved in online relationships.
Troubled teens must do community service.
No teen must be labeled a lost cause.
Parents must never get teens too much money.
Old school values must be implemented in schools.
Bullying changes a teen forever.
It is important that teens become volunteers.
Teens should spend more time with the elderly.
Beauty contests are harmful.
Parents have no right to embarrass their teens.
Eating disorders are a result of a mental illness.
Teens should avoid dating too young.
Driving tests should be free.
Teens should be rewarded for doing the right things.
Teens must have mobile phones.
Listening to music during study hall will improve concentration.
Make it illegal for teens to drop out of school.
Tablets must replace textbooks.
Every teen should learn to cook.
Cosmetic surgery is not for teens.
Facebook is for old people.
TV shows have too much influence on teens.
Having a Pen Pal is very hip.
Peer pressure can be a positive thing.
Teens should spend more time in nature.
Cool teachers are easier to learn from.
Driving age should be 18.
Birth control must be made available without parents consent.
Teens should not follow their teachers on social media.
Teens need to wear a school uniform.
Parents don’t prepare their teens properly for puberty.
Part-time jobs should be legal from the age of 14.
Teens divorcing parents shouldn’t be allowed.
Quiet time for teens is a necessity.
Everyone should keep a journal.
Teens should have their own savings account.
Parents have the right to always have access to their teens phone.
Teenagers can become millionaires.
Fame is bad for young people.
Boys get more acne than girls.
Respond to your enemies with kindness.
There is no such thing as a bff.
Piercing your tongue is disgusting.
Having too many friends is like having a part-time job.
Teens that are outsiders are the smartest.
Parents shouldn’t expect all teachers to leave a lasting impression on their children.
Funny guys get more dates than the handsome ones.
Wearing glasses makes you look cool.
Parents have the right to choose a teens dress code.
Teens are old enough to choose which parent to live with.
Group projects should be scrapped.
Prom is overrated.
Teens lead very stressful lives.
There is no getting out of a Friendship Zone.
Teens need adults to trust them.
Teens must stop trying so hard to look like everyone else.
Leggings are not pants.
Teens crave responsibility.
Risk is a temptation for teens.
FOMO is a real fear.
‘Because I said so’ is not a reply that works on teenagers.
Teens want to be spoken to as adults.
Children do care what their parents think of them.
Parents are embarrassing.
Drunk driving is the number one reason to up the driving age.
Date someone with the same beliefs.
Do not be devoted to one single sport, and choose for a physical team playing games and activities.
Most magazines do not use the appropriate attractive language for teens.
Teenagers should be banned from beauty surgery.
News network organizations should re-invent themselves to attract teens.
Most television shows are manipulating and influencing teens.
Teens should volunteer at a local soup kitchen for homeless.
Reinvent the pen pal handwritten letter with people from all over the world!
Peer pressure can be good when people influence you to act good.
Video games should be forbidden.
Academic camps help you preparing for the education college admission procedures.
How I met my first boyfriend/girlfriend
Best friends are hard to come by
The unrealistic standards that modern women are held to
Gay and lesbian teens are no different than me
Why I should tell your parents everything
Why you can’t trust your mom’s fashion advice
Why personality matters more than beauty
Time travel must be real

Informative

Basic Chinese phrases to survive travelling in China
Remarkable texts in ads
The top five bizarre tabloid news articles
Why a chicken still walks even with the head cut off
The most dangerous snakes you have to watch out for in the fields
How you can easily burn out of homework
Ten things to remember about garage sales
Special effects of horror movies revealed
The secrets behind the preparation of your food in fast food restaurants and the marketing trap you are walking in as soon as you enter the establishment where they serve meals to customers.
The top five parent excuse notes
Top tips to behave effectively in the class of Mr. or Mrs. …
Tips for buying gifts and gadgets for someone who is not a close friend but more of some sort of an acquaintance of your parents
Bad presents to get and bad gifts to give
The alarming signs you are addicted to web games
How to find out for sure if your friends are truly your friends
Different ways to use a brick
Cool, useful things my parents have taught me
How to teach your grandma to text
How to make your parents proud by doing what you love
Top five things I do that annoy my mom
How to fake a sickness and get out of school
The coolest art project I’ve made
The real feelings behind exams
The last time I got caught in a lie…
Things that boys/girls don’t know about girls/boys
Gym class: What’s the worst that could happen?
To get a job or not to get a job, that is the question
The most widely accepted excuses for not handing in your homework on time
How to master procrastination and still pass all your classes
Tips for pulling off the ultimate makeover
Popularity: How to get it, how to keep it
My generation’s obsession with all things scary
The best hobbies you won’t want to miss out on
What makes a bully become a bully
How to be smart and pretty
The difficulty of finding employment as a teenager
What it’s like being the oldest/youngest sibling
Ten uses for duct tape that everyone should know
What my life will be like in twenty years
If I ruled the world…
How to make people buy what you’re “selling”
When your family forces you to spend time with them…
The weirdest thing I’ve ever eaten
What my dream house would be like
The coolest place on Earth
The top tricks to faking a cold and getting away with it
How to do more homework in less time
Gossip: How to know what’s real and what isn’t
How schools can help obese students get their lives back
How to tell someone to “go away” without sounding rude
Teens’ obsessions with material objects and status
Things my parents say that annoy me
My dream job would be…
What to look for in a boyfriend/girlfriend
How not to get a date with your crush
The secrets to nailing the “innocent” look
Famous/successful people who were told “no” before they were told “yes”
How to get a new outfit out of your parents with little effort
Ways to get your parents to apologize to YOU
How to get the ________ you’ve been dreaming of (shoes, purse, pony, etc.)
How to make it through Valentine’s Day without a boyfriend/girlfriend
Best tips for picture-perfect selfies
For the funniest videos on YouTube, search for _______
The coolest science projects that will get you an A every time
Things I’ve learned that have made me wiser
If I could create my own holiday, it would be ________
How to get out of class/school without getting in trouble
The coolest inventions I’ve ever seen
How to prepare for your first kiss
If I could write a letter to the President
What I think the world will be like in 100 years
The latest hair trends
How to get someone to do your work for you without asking
The top five topics to talk about on your date
Why some young people are self-harming.
How to overcome your painful shyness in speech class

130 Awesome Speech Topics for Kids

Types of Public Speaking

34 thoughts on “206 Great Speech Topics for Teens [Persuasive, Informative]”

the earth is flat

how much flat could a flatearther prove if a flatearther could prove the earth was flat

Emberrsing photos

the earth is flat yuh

i do not believe the earth is flat, I believe it is triangle

I think the earth is flat beacause Jake Pauls and Logan Paul are flat. And they are the earth. #MaverickGang

xbox is better than ps4

The earth is not flat!

earth is flat tbh

i believe the earth is a donut and when we are looking at the ‘sky’ we are really looking at the sea

The earth is not flat it is a cube and Xbox is better than PS4

What is the hardest event to get over in your life and why?

Nursery Rhymes

how to get away with murder

The earth is obviously a bowl, otherwise all of the water would’ve fallen out of the earth.

I dislike the “Homeshooled teens are socially awkward” topic: I believe it is both false, rude, generalized, and not a proper subject for a speech whatsoever. A lot of the topics on this list are immature and shallow. I personally am a 13 year old homeschooling teen and next time I need an idea I will not come here. If you have questions or arguments please feel free to try to prove them….

Clearly you need to get some information on what “argumentative” speech is.

all of these topics sound like old men wrote them

the earth is shaped like a pyramid

nintendo switch is better than xbox

Clearly the earth is spherical However, I believe we are on the inside face of the sphere, which means that all these ‘stars’ they talk about are actually the lights on the other side of the world. And then the moon landings must have been faked.

i believe in the doughnut theory and think the bermuda triangle is the hole in the middle of the earth……..

Xbox is better then PS4 AF!!

ps4 is better than xbox and the earth is not round it is a hexagon

ps3 is better then ps4

The earth is round duhhh what did the guys see when they were in space? A round earth from earth what do u see? a round moon …… Illuminati Confirmed…….

disagree w most of these topics and yes the earth is a donut

can someone please give me a good speech topic please thanks

i- all you people are wrong. the earth is oBviOusLy kardashian shaped. they basically rule the world, it would make sense that the planet they’re living in loves them so much, it took their form. duh.

all video game platforms can burn xx

nah i’m just playing

I really like these Speech Topics they will help me more to win!

Is water wet

you can burn fire

kids should not be able to choose if their gay or not their to young to know and it will just be a phase just like blm

@the hard truth Those children have the freedom to be who they are, if you like it or not

basic names should be banned.

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40+ Captivating Persuasive Speech Topics For Students

Persuasive speeches have the remarkable ability to inspire change, challenge conventional beliefs, and shape the way we perceive the world. However, finding the perfect topic that strikes a chord with your audience and aligns with your own values can be a daunting task.

So, whether you’re passionate about social justice, environmental sustainability, or personal growth, join us on this journey of discovery and let these captivating persuasive speech topics inspire your next remarkable presentation. Get ready to wield the power of words and make a difference through the art of persuasion. Let’s dive in!

What Is Persuasive Speech?

Table of Contents

A persuasive speech is a form of communication that aims to convince or influence an audience to adopt a particular viewpoint, belief, or action. The speaker presents arguments and supporting evidence to sway the audience’s opinions and encourage them to align with the speaker’s perspective.

The primary objective of a persuasive speech is to persuade the audience to think, feel, or act in a specific way. It involves employing various persuasive techniques, such as logical reasoning, emotional appeal, and credible evidence, to make a compelling case for the speaker’s position.

Persuasive speeches are often delivered in a structured format that includes an introduction, body, and conclusion. In the introduction, the speaker grabs the audience’s attention, establishes credibility, and presents the main argument or thesis statement. The body of the speech provides supporting evidence, examples, and counterarguments to strengthen the speaker’s position. The conclusion summarizes the main points and reinforces the call to action or desired outcome.

Effective persuasive speeches not only present persuasive arguments but also consider the audience’s values, beliefs, and potential objections. They engage the listeners by addressing their concerns, offering solutions, and appealing to their emotions. By employing persuasive techniques and thoughtful rhetoric, speakers strive to leave a lasting impact and inspire their audience to embrace the desired message or take action.

Persuasive speeches are commonly used in various settings, including classrooms, political rallies, sales pitches, and public advocacy campaigns. They play a crucial role in influencing public opinion, raising awareness, and promoting social change.

Importance Of Persuasive Speech That You Must Know

Here are some key reasons why persuasive speech is important:

1. Influence and Persuasion

Persuasive speeches are powerful tools for influencing and persuading others to adopt a particular viewpoint or take specific action. Whether it’s convincing people to support a cause, change their behavior, or vote for a candidate, persuasive speeches can effectively sway opinions and inspire action.

2. Public Speaking Skills

Delivering persuasive speeches helps develop essential public speaking skills. It enhances one’s ability to articulate thoughts clearly, engage an audience, and communicate persuasively. These skills are valuable in various professional fields, such as business, politics, education, and advocacy.

3. Critical Thinking

Crafting a persuasive speech requires in-depth research, analysis, and critical thinking. Speakers must evaluate different perspectives, anticipate counterarguments, and provide logical reasoning to support their claims. Engaging in persuasive speech encourages individuals to think critically, examine evidence, and form well-reasoned arguments.

4. Advocacy and Social Change

Persuasive speeches play a crucial role in advocating for social issues and driving positive change. They raise awareness about important topics, challenge societal norms, and inspire individuals to take action. Through persuasive speeches, individuals can mobilize communities, influence public opinion, and contribute to meaningful transformations.

5. Effective Communication

Persuasive speeches enhance overall communication skills. Speakers learn to effectively structure their ideas, convey messages concisely, and adapt their language and tone to connect with diverse audiences.

6. Building Confidence

Delivering a persuasive speech requires confidence and self-assurance. As individuals prepare and present their arguments, they develop a sense of confidence in their ability to express their ideas and influence others. This confidence extends beyond public speaking and can positively impact various aspects of life, including personal relationships, negotiations, and leadership roles.

7. Empowering Individuals

Persuasive speeches have the potential to empower individuals by giving them a platform to express their beliefs, values, and concerns. It allows individuals to share their perspectives, challenge the status quo, and inspire others to take action. Through persuasive speaking, individuals can find their voice and make a difference in their communities and beyond.

8. Enhancing Persuasive Writing Skills

Crafting a persuasive speech often goes hand in hand with developing persuasive writing skills. The process of organizing thoughts, structuring arguments, and selecting impactful language strengthens one’s ability to write persuasively. These writing skills are valuable in academic settings, professional environments, and personal communication.

9. Fostering Open Dialogue

Persuasive speeches encourage dialogue and open discussions. By presenting different viewpoints and engaging in respectful debate, speakers create opportunities for diverse perspectives to be heard and understood. This fosters an environment of intellectual exchange, encourages critical thinking, and promotes a deeper understanding of complex issues.

10. Inspiring Action

Ultimately, the goal of a persuasive speech is to inspire action. Whether it’s encouraging individuals to donate to a cause, change their behaviors, or support a particular policy, persuasive speeches have the power to motivate people to act upon their convictions. They can ignite passion, instill a sense of purpose, and mobilize individuals and communities to bring about positive change.

Here in this section, we will tell you 40+ Captivating Persuasive Speech Topics For Students:

1. The Importance of Recycling

Persuade others to adopt recycling practices by discussing the environmental benefits of recycling and the impact on reducing waste.

2. Benefits of Meditation

Explore the positive effects of meditation on mental and physical well-being, such as stress reduction and increased focus.

3. Social Media Addiction

Discuss the negative impacts of excessive social media use on mental health and personal relationships, and advocate for mindful usage.

4. Animal Testing

Argue against the use of animals for scientific experiments and promote alternative methods that are more ethical and effective.

5. Climate Change

Present the urgency of addressing climate change and advocate for sustainable practices to mitigate its effects and preserve the planet.

6. Benefits of Volunteering

Highlight the personal growth, community impact, and sense of fulfillment that comes with volunteering.

7. Cyberbullying

Raise awareness about the harmful effects of cyberbullying on individuals’ mental health and advocate for stricter measures to prevent and combat it.

8. The Importance of Mental Health Education

Advocate for the inclusion of mental health education in schools to reduce stigma, promote early intervention, and support overall well-being.

9. Gun Control

Present arguments for stricter gun control regulations and advocate for measures to enhance public safety and prevent gun violence.

10. Importance of Financial Literacy

Advocate for the inclusion of financial literacy education in schools to empower individuals with essential money management skills and prevent financial difficulties.

11. Gender Equality

Discuss the importance of achieving gender equality in various spheres of life, addressing issues like pay gaps, representation, and equal opportunities.

12. Benefits of Exercise

Highlight the physical and mental health benefits of regular exercise, including improved mood, increased energy, and reduced risk of diseases.

13. Online Privacy

Discuss the implications of compromised online privacy, such as identity theft and data breaches, and advocate for better protection of personal information.

14. Importance of Arts Education

Advocate for the inclusion of arts education in schools and highlight its positive impact on creativity, critical thinking, and overall development.

15. The Harmful Effects of Fast Food

Present arguments against excessive consumption of fast food and promote healthier eating habits for better long-term health.

16. Capital Punishment

Discuss the ethical considerations surrounding capital punishment and argue for its abolishment based on issues of morality, fairness, and wrongful convictions.

17. Access to Education

Advocate for equal access to quality education for all individuals, addressing educational disparities based on socioeconomic background, race, or geography.

18. Dangers of Texting While Driving

Raise awareness about the risks of distracted driving due to texting and advocate for stricter penalties and awareness campaigns to reduce accidents.

19. Importance of Renewable Energy

Discuss the benefits of transitioning to renewable energy sources and advocate for sustainable energy practices to combat climate change and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

20. The Influence of Media on Body Image

Highlight the negative impact of media’s portrayal of ideal body images on self-esteem, body image dissatisfaction, and promote body positivity and self-acceptance.

21. Universal Healthcare

Argue for the implementation of universal healthcare, emphasizing the benefits of affordable and accessible healthcare for all individuals, regardless of socioeconomic status.

22. Legalization of Marijuana

Present arguments for the legalization of marijuana, addressing its potential benefits for medical use, tax revenue, and reducing criminal activity associated with prohibition.

23. The Impact of Plastic Pollution

Raise awareness about the detrimental effects of plastic pollution on the environment and advocate for reducing plastic consumption and promoting sustainable alternatives.

24. Immigration Policies

Discuss the importance of fair and compassionate immigration policies, addressing issues of human rights, economic contributions, and cultural diversity.

25. Mental Health Stigma

Address the stigma surrounding mental health, educate others about the realities of mental health disorders, and advocate for increased awareness, acceptance, and support for individuals facing mental health challenges.

26. Affordable Housing Crisis

Discuss the issue of affordable housing shortage in many communities, explore the impact on individuals and families, and advocate for policies to address this pressing problem and provide affordable housing options.

27. The Benefits of Early Childhood Education

Present arguments for the importance of early childhood education in fostering cognitive and social development, preparing children for academic success, and narrowing the achievement gap.

28. Cybersecurity

Discuss the increasing threats in cyberspace, including hacking and identity theft, and advocate for stronger cybersecurity measures to protect personal and sensitive information.

29. Workplace Diversity

Highlight the advantages of diverse and inclusive workplaces, including increased creativity, innovation, and improved company performance, and advocate for equal opportunities for underrepresented groups.

30. School Bullying

Address the issue of bullying in schools, discuss its harmful effects on victims and the overall learning environment, and advocate for prevention programs, increased awareness, and stronger anti-bullying measures.

31. Accessible Transportation

Advocate for improved accessibility in public transportation systems, addressing the needs of individuals with disabilities and promoting inclusivity.

32. Importance of Nutrition Education

Advocate for comprehensive nutrition education in schools to combat the rise of unhealthy eating habits, obesity rates, and promote lifelong health and well-being.

33. Animal Cruelty

Raise awareness about different forms of animal cruelty, such as animal testing, factory farming, and wildlife exploitation, and advocate for stricter laws and ethical treatment of animals.

34. Renewable Energy Transition

Discuss the urgent need to transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, and advocate for government support, incentives, and investment in renewable energy infrastructure.

35. Access to Clean Water

Address the global issue of clean water scarcity, its impact on communities, and advocate for sustainable water management practices and initiatives to ensure access to clean water for all.

36. Media Literacy

Advocate for the importance of media literacy education, empowering individuals to critically analyze and interpret media messages, identify misinformation, and make informed decisions.

37. Genetic Engineering

Present arguments for and against genetic engineering, discussing its potential benefits in medicine, agriculture, and ethical considerations, and advocate for responsible and regulated practices.

38. Mental Health Support in Schools

Discuss the need for increased mental health support and resources in educational institutions, addressing the prevalence of mental health disorders among students and advocating for comprehensive mental health services.

39. Sustainable Fashion

Raise awareness about the environmental and social impact of fast fashion, advocate for sustainable and ethical practices in the fashion industry, and promote conscious consumerism.

40. Artificial Intelligence Ethics

Discuss the ethical implications and potential risks of artificial intelligence, such as privacy concerns, job displacement, and bias, and advocate for responsible development and regulation of AI technologies.

41. Genetic Discrimination

Address the issue of genetic discrimination based on genetic information and advocate for policies to protect individuals from discrimination in employment, healthcare, and insurance based on their genetic profile.

42. Universal Basic Income

Present arguments for the implementation of a universal basic income, exploring its potential to alleviate poverty, promote economic stability, and address income inequality.

43. Mental Health Support in the Workplace

Advocate for increased mental health support and resources in the workplace, promoting a supportive and inclusive environment, and addressing the importance of work-life balance and employee well-being.

44. Sustainable Agriculture

Discuss the benefits of sustainable agriculture practices, such as organic farming, regenerative agriculture, and local food systems, and advocate for their widespread adoption to promote food security, environmental sustainability, and health.

Argumentative Essay Topics
Business Speech Topics

How to Find Persuasive Speech Topics

Here are some of the ways on how to find persuasive speech topics:

1. Brainstorming

Set aside some time to brainstorm ideas. Think about your own interests, passions, and experiences. Consider current events, social issues, and topics that you feel strongly about. Write down any ideas that come to mind, no matter how unconventional they may seem.

2. Personal Reflection

Reflect on your own experiences, challenges, and beliefs. Is there a particular issue or cause that you are passionate about? Is there a problem you’ve encountered that you would like to address? Your personal insights and experiences can often lead to unique and persuasive speech topics.

3. Research

Stay updated on current events, social issues, and emerging trends. Read news articles, opinion pieces, and research studies to gain insights into various topics. Look for controversial or thought-provoking subjects that generate different viewpoints and discussions.

4. Explore Social Issues

Consider the issues that impact society and provoke debates. Topics like climate change, gender equality, racial justice, healthcare access, and technological advancements often generate passionate discussions. Research the different perspectives and arguments surrounding these topics to find a compelling angle for your speech.

5. Audience Analysis

Understand your audience’s interests, concerns, and values. Think about what topics would resonate with them and what issues they may be interested in learning more about. Tailoring your speech to the specific needs and interests of your audience can make it more persuasive and engaging.

6. Online Resources

Explore online resources such as websites, forums, and social media platforms that discuss and debate various topics. Platforms like TED Talks, news websites, and online forums can provide inspiration and ideas for persuasive speech topics.

7. Seek Inspiration from Others

Listen to speeches or watch presentations given by renowned speakers, activists, and thought leaders. Pay attention to the topics they discuss and the way they deliver their arguments. While you should never copy someone else’s speech, these can serve as sources of inspiration and guidance.

8. Consult with Others

Engage in conversations with friends, family members, colleagues, or classmates about potential speech topics. Discuss current events, social issues, and areas of interest. Their perspectives and suggestions may help you discover new and compelling topics.

Significance of Choosing the Right Persuasive Speech Topics

Here is the significance of choosing the right persuasive speech topics

1. Audience Engagement

A well-chosen topic captures the interest and attention of your audience. When you select a topic that resonates with your listeners, they are more likely to be engaged and actively participate in the speech. This increases the effectiveness of your persuasive message and enhances the impact of your speech.

2. Personal Connection

When you choose a topic that you are passionate about or have personal experience with, your authenticity and enthusiasm shine through. This connection with the topic helps you deliver a more compelling speech and establish a stronger rapport with your audience. Your genuine passion and knowledge make your arguments more persuasive and convincing.

3. Relevance

The right topic is one that is relevant to your audience’s lives, interests, or concerns. By addressing issues that are meaningful to them, you establish a direct connection and demonstrate that you understand their perspectives. This relevance creates a sense of importance and urgency, making your speech more impactful and likely to generate positive change or action.

4. Emotional Appeal

Persuasive speeches often rely on evoking emotions to influence the audience. Choosing a topic that taps into emotions, such as empathy, compassion, or a sense of justice, can be highly effective in driving your message home. Emotionally compelling topics have the power to motivate, inspire, and create lasting impact on the listeners.

5. Credibility and Research

A well-chosen topic allows you to gather credible research and evidence to support your arguments. It ensures that you have access to reliable sources, data, and expert opinions that strengthen your persuasive message. The availability of credible information helps build your credibility as a speaker and enhances the persuasiveness of your speech.

6. Diverse Perspectives

Consider selecting topics that present multiple viewpoints and encourage critical thinking. By exploring different perspectives and addressing counterarguments , you demonstrate a fair and balanced approach. This approach not only makes your speech more credible but also encourages open-mindedness and fosters constructive dialogue among your audience.

7. Social Impact

The right persuasive speech topic has the potential to create positive social change. By addressing pressing issues, raising awareness, and advocating for specific actions or policies, you contribute to the broader discussions and movements happening in society. Your speech can inspire others to rethink their beliefs, change their behaviors, or take active steps toward a better future.

In conclusion, the significance of choosing the right persuasive speech topics cannot be overstated. It is through careful selection that we can engage our audience, establish personal connections, and create relevance. By addressing topics that resonate with our listeners, we capture their attention and foster an environment conducive to persuasion.

The impact of a well-chosen topic goes beyond mere engagement. It taps into emotions, evokes empathy, and drives action. When we speak passionately about subjects that hold personal meaning for us, our authenticity shines through, making our arguments more compelling and persuasive.

Furthermore, selecting the right topic allows us to gather credible research and evidence, bolstering our credibility and enhancing the strength of our message. It also opens the door to exploring diverse perspectives, encouraging critical thinking and constructive dialogue among our audience.

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101 Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics for Kids and Teens

Use your words to sway the reader.

Persuasive Essay Topics: Should we allow little kids to play competitive sports?

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?

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?

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?

Persuasive Essay Topics: 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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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 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?

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?

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?

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) ..

Need some ideas for practicing persuasive writing skills? These persuasive essay topics provide lots of scope for students of all ages.

The American Crisis historical article, as an instance of persuasive essay examples

40 Strong Persuasive Writing Examples (Essays, Speeches, Ads, and More)

Learn from the experts. Continue Reading

Speech Topics in English for Students and Children

Many times we have wanted our voices to be heard and also inspire others with our ideas and thoughts. However, we aren’t able to do so in the correct manner sometimes. It is mostly because one fails to find the right words at the right times. That is why we have speeches. They help you attract the attention of the audience and make people listen to you. In school and college, speech topics become a part of our lives. While it is comparatively easy to write an essay, to deliver a speech is an entirely different thing. Proper persuasive speech topics can help you inform and convince your target audience. In order to do that, you need to do thorough research and state valid points to make a good impression.

When we talk about persuasive speech topics, it is important to note that they must inform, educate, convince or motivate your audience. In other words, you will be influencing them to accept your point of view. The finest persuasive speech topics are always stimulating, daring and very crisp and clear. Always remember to choose an interesting persuasive speech topic. It will help attract the attention of the listener or reader from the start to the end. Moreover, make sure to have ample knowledge about the topics, which will assist you in counter-questioning.

When choosing your persuasive speech topic, make sure it is familiar so you can prepare it easily. Further, your audience must care about the topic and must be able to easily visualize them. The main point is to make sure to not choose something that is overdone. Emotional topics help stimulate more emotions and give better chances of achieving the desired outcome.

Types of Persuasive Speech Topics

Factual Persuasive Speech – Use facts and figures to prove whether the topic is true or false
Value Persuasive Speech – Argues whether something is morally correct or not
Policy Persuasive Speech – Speeches that try to advance policies, laws and more.

There are a lot of persuasive speech topics that we consider interesting enough to be chosen as given below. All these persuasive speech topics are relevant and will remain so for a long time. When it comes to choosing persuasive speech topics, your options are infinite. We have compiled some of the best ones to help you make a good impression.

Toppr has done all the thorough research on your behalf so you can solely focus on delivering the speech excellently. In this article, we have listed out numerous important speech topics from various categories for special occasions, on prominent leaders, motivational, persuasive speech topics and more. They are appropriate for everyone from school students to college ones. Our vast collections of speech topics ensure you find anything and everything that you are looking for. Following is a great list of speech topics divided into different categories like persuasive speech topics and more for a better and quick search:

List of 100+ Speech Topics for Students and Children

List of persuasive speech topics.

Will punishing bullies help?
How to speak confidently in public?
Do exam results alone determine a child’s worth?
Do video games promote violence?
How to overcome the fear of Maths?
Should schools have longer recess time?
Should schools make swimming lessons mandatory?
What is the best age to own a mobile phone?
What is better: Paper books or E-Books?
How to overcome exam fever?

List of Persuasive Speech Topics on Environment

How will recycling help us?
Should there be a ban on smoking in public places?
Should zoos be banned?
Should there be a ban on animal testing?
Will banning plastic bags help?
Should exotic animals be kept as pets?
Is the government doing enough to tackle Global Warming?
How to control water pollution?
What is better: Buying pets or Adoption?
Why Elephant riding is unethical?

Speech Topics about Prominent Leaders

APJ Abdul Kalam Speech
Jawaharlal Nehru Speech
Lal Bahadur Shastri Speech
Mahatma Gandhi Speech
Speech On Swami Vivekananda

Speech Topics about Yourself

My Aim In Life Speech
My Mother Speech
My School Life Speech
My School Speech

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

Speech Topics on Environment and Nature

Climate Change Speech
Global Warming Speech
Save Environment Speech
Save Water Speech
Speech About Nature
Speech On Air Pollution
Speech On Deforestation
Speech On Disaster Management
Speech On Environment
Speech On Importance Of Water
Speech On Pollution
Speech On Waste Management
Speech On Water
Speech On Water Pollution
Speech On World Environment Day

Speech Topics on Festivals and Events

Speech on Ambedkar Jayanti
Children’s Day Speech
Christmas Day Speech
Gandhi Jayanti Speech
Hindi Diwas Speech
Human Rights Day Speech
Independence Day Speech
International Women’s Day Speech
Labour Day Speech
Mother’s Day Speech
Speech On Baisakhi
Speech On Diwali
Speech On World Population Day
Teachers Day Celebration Speech
Teachers Day Speech
Welcome Speech For Independence Day
Tryst With Destiny

Speech Topics on Proverbs

Health Is Wealth Speech
Knowledge Is Power Speech
Laughter Is The Best Medicine Speech
Speech On Unity Is Strength

Speech Topics for Special Occasions

Best Man Speech
Best Farewell Speech
Annual Function Speech
Farewell Speech For Colleague
Retirement Farewell Speech
Thank You Speech
Thank You Speech For Award
Thank You Speech For Birthday
Thank You Speech For Farewell
Vote Of Thanks Speech
Welcome Speech For Republic Day
Welcome Speech For Annual Function
Welcome Speech For College Function
Welcome Speech For Conference
Welcome Speech For Event
Welcome Speech For Farewell

Speech Topics on Social Issues

Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Speech
Clean India Speech
Organ Donation Speech
Road Safety Speech
Speech On Child Labour
Speech On Agriculture
Speech On Cleanliness
Speech On Corruption
Women Empowerment Speech
Speech On Unemployment

Speech Topics about Education

Importance Of Education Speech
Speech on Education
Speech On Books
Speech On Education System In India
Speech On Girls Education
Value Of Education Speech

Speech Topics for Kids

Doctor Speech
Speech On Money
Speech On Mother
Speech On Music
Speech On Respect
Speech On Sports
Speech On Sports And Games
Speech On the Importance of Teacher in Our Lives
Speech About Friendship
Speech On India
Speech On Junk Food
Speech On Grandparents

Speech Topics on Public Speaking Topics

Speech On Article 370
Speech On Constitution Of India
Election Speech
Leadership Speech
Political Speech
Speech About Youth
Speech On Fashion
Speech On Generation Gap
Speech On Indian Army
Speech On Indian Culture
Speech On Internet
Speech On Technology
Speech On Unity
Speech On Yoga
Speech On Travel And Tourism
Speech On Health
Speech On Importance Of Cleanliness

List of Persuasive Speech Topics on Education

Should school uniforms be banned?
Should we allow mobile phones in school?
Co-Education has more benefits or drawbacks?
What is better: Rote learning or Hands-on Learning?
Boarding schools are better than Day schools?
Dropping a year helps students or not?
Are PowerPoint presentations a waste of time?
Having the same grading system for all students, is it fair?
Should it be mandatory for all schools to have a canteen?
Are smart classes beneficial to students?

Motivational Speech Topics

Speech About Dreams
Speech About Life
Speech On Time
Speech On Discipline
Speech On Happiness
Speech On Kindness
Speech On Value Of Time
Speech On Health And Fitness

Tips for Writing a Speech

It does not matter if you have the most innovative ideas if you don’t execute them well in your speech. A good speech always invokes emotion, is well-researched and addresses relevant subjects. In order to write a good speech, make sure to follow the points given below:

Structure: Always remember to have a definite structure when you begin writing your speech. It is a frame that will give shape to your speech and help keep you on track. Jot down all ideas coming to your mind and then connect them so that each part has something interesting to keep the audience intrigued.

Vocabulary: A speech is meant for an audience that is filled with different types of people. You need to make sure you are using the right words so your message is conveyed successfully to each and every one. Only the right words can express and highlight your message. Thus, the level of complexity must match the level of the audience of your speech.

Relatable: Your speech is what you make of it, if your speech has incredible points but you don’t deliver it well, it won’t work. Try to include relatable things in the speech to make everyone comfortable and deliver it in a humanized manner so the audience relates to you as well as your speech.

Examples: When you use examples, it helps support and proves your point in a better manner. It also helps convince the audience and result in better engagement. Try using just enough examples so people buy what you are offering and also to add that emotional edge to your speech.

Short: The worst thing you can do to your audience is to deliver a long speech. Do not try too hard and sum up your views in a short and informative speech. In fact, the longer you take, the more mistakes you will make. When someone is investing their time to listen to you, make sure it is worth it.

To sum it up, a good speech requires time and effort. Try to pick the right topic if it’s in your hand and express your thoughts and opinions freely, without any hesitance. Consistency is key, you won’t get it perfect the first time, but eventually, you will get there.

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Speech for Students

Speech on India for Students and Children
Speech on Mother for Students and Children
Speech on Air Pollution for Students and Children
Speech about Life for Students and Children
Speech on Disaster Management for Students and Children
Speech on Internet for Students and Children
Speech on Generation Gap for Students and Children
Speech on Indian Culture for Students and Children
Speech on Sports for Students and Children
Speech on Water for Students and Children

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Good Persuasive Speech Topics for Students Who Don’t Lose

Julia de Raadt

Head of research and lead admissions expert, table of contents, how to come up with good persuasive speech topics in the first place, no matter what, don’t freak out – empowerly can help, the ultimate struggle.

Wondering Where You Should Begin? Read On.

Keep Your Personality in Mind as You Craft Your Argument

This should be something you feel strongly about, it’s simple – be passionate, where to look for persuasive speech topics, keep in mind that you will have to provide evidence, consider your audience, facing a heated audience, matching the level of education of your audience, good topics for persuasive speech are often controversial.

A Place to Begin

Check Us Out

Stay up-to-date on the latest research and college admissions trends with our blog team.

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for Students Who Don’t Lose

Preparing a persuasive speech but need an inspiring topic? Our blog presents a list of good persuasive speech topics specifically curated for students who want to make an impact. Explore a range of thought-provoking subjects, from environmental issues to social justice, and learn how to craft compelling arguments that engage your audience. Whether you’re a seasoned public speaker or just starting, our blog offers valuable tips and topic suggestions to help you deliver a persuasive speech that leaves a lasting impression. Discover your voice and tackle important topics with confidence using our guide to good persuasive speech topics for students.

Coming up with a solid persuasive speech topic isn’t always easy. Perhaps the stress has been building up for days. You’ve been trying to come up with a topic, but you keep coming up short. You’ve been racking your brain for something, anything interesting to persuade a willing (or unwilling) audience.

If coming up with an argument for a persuasive speech topic is stressing you out, don’t worry. You are in good hands: Empowerly is here to help.

Coming up with a solid persuasive speech topic or even a passable persuasive college admissions essay topic can be a struggle. This can be true even for straight-A students who may or may not have a penchant for argument. Coming up with a topic is a whole different ball game than arguing a fact that comes up in daily conversation. Don’t fret – we have you covered in terms of good persuasive speech topics, where to find them, and where to even begin a successful argument.

Wondering Where You Should Begin? Read On.

Persuasive speech topics range from the minute to the monumental. There are several different routes you can take when deciding on a persuasive speech topic. Above all else, consider your audience and the message you are trying to convey. We will discuss this more later on in this article. For now, brainstorm a few ideas that you’d be willing to convince a room of stubborn people you’re right about.

When choosing persuasive speech topics, you should also consider your own personality and beliefs. Think about what drives you, what grinds your gears, or what really gets under your skin. If your argument doesn’t feel like “you” then you won’t be able to convince anyone that you actually believe what you are saying.

Remember that your persuasive speech is about a topic on which you are trying to convince your audience to change their mind. This shouldn’t be something you feel lukewarm about, and it certainly shouldn’t be something you are not willing to research. Research is arguably the most important part of this process, and it isn’t something you should take lightly. Later, we’ll talk more about the research aspect of creating a good persuasive speech topic.

It is undoubtedly more difficult to come up with a solid persuasive argument if you aren’t passionate about something, and it can be nearly impossible to do so if you don’t believe in the cause at all. On the other hand, if you are passionate about something, it is likely that convincing someone you are right about it will come naturally.

Good topics for persuasive speech events are abundant, you simply have to know where to start looking. If you can’t find anything that really catches your eye, don’t worry. We’ll give you a few ideas below. You can also look in today’s news headlines, in your history book, or for an opinion piece that you disagree with. Just remember that no matter where you find your persuasive speech topic, you have to be prepared or nobody will take you seriously. Get out there and start looking (after you finish reading all of our exceptional hints, tips, and tricks relating to good persuasive speech topics, of course).

It should be noted that good persuasive speech topics should typically be well-researched and documented. Find evidence linked to them that you can use to craft a strong, solid argument. Hopefully, there are a few key points that you can focus on in your argument. Knowing what those key points are will help you know where to start your research. If one point comes up sparse in the search engine, move on to the next. Eventually, you will find a key point or two that you can latch onto and use to craft a very compelling argument.

As we mentioned before, when coming up with a good persuasive speech topic, you must consider your audience. Take into account your audience’s beliefs, demographics, and level of education. These factors all play a role in the way in which you craft your incredibly effective persuasive speech.

If you know before walking into this that your audience feels heated and passionate about the topic, be prepared to face some degree of backlash. If this is the case, you will need to lean heavily on logic and reasoning in an attempt to dampen the emotions of your audience. With the right facts presented in a firm but friendly manner, you’ll be surprised at how effective your argument becomes.

It goes without saying that you may have a different level of education than those in your audience. This is unavoidable, but it does not mean that your message will be ignored. If your audience is more educated than you, learn the terminology, history, and semantics of your topic like the back of your hand. You need to be able to defend your argument and make sure that it sticks.

On the other hand, if your audience has a lower level of education than you, simplify your argument a reasonable amount. At the same time, do not dumb it down. Simply explain it as though you were teaching your topic to a peer (because you are). Remember that if you cannot explain something in simple terms, the odds are that you do not understand it well enough to be making an argument about it in the first place.

Something else that should be noted about good persuasive speech topics is that they are often more emotional. This is perfectly fine as long as you believe what you are arguing. The exception to this rule is if you are working on an assignment where your teacher or professor wants you to argue the side of the opposition. If that is the case, gather as much data as possible and center your argument on logos (logic) since the pathos (passion, empathy) won’t be there.

Below, we will list a few good persuasive speech topics, but first, let’s talk about how to go about finding or coming up with a good topic on your own in the first place.

A Place to Begin

Listed below are a few good topics for persuasive speech engagements. By no means is this collection of persuasive speech topics exhausting, but it may give you a place to start or an idea from which you can base your own persuasive speech.

Here Are Some Good Topics For Persuasive Speech Engagements:

Should undergraduate degrees be free?
Should there be a flat income tax rate?
Should hunting be illegal?
Should there be a minimum age to become president?
Should public schools be required to provide laptops or tablets for students?
Should social media be censored?
Should books be banned from public libraries?
Should books be banned from school libraries?
Should schools have dress codes?
Should everyone be required to drive electric cars?
Should contraception be free?
Should there be universal healthcare?
Should marijuana be legalized?
Should parents or teachers teach students about sex?
Should students be required to say the Pledge of Allegiance?
Should corporal punishment be allowed in schools?
Should high schools have open campus policies in terms of students being able to go off-campus for lunch?
Should colleges follow affirmative action quotas?
Should we have high-speed rail systems?
Should the government be able to seize land by reason of eminent domain?
Should people be required to use reef-friendly sunscreen?
Should parents be required to vaccinate their kids for them to attend public schools?
Should pet owners be required to spay or neuter their pets?
Should parents allow their children to have social media accounts?
Should parents post their children on social media?
Should the United States be a direct democracy?
Should everyone be vegan?
Should you have to have a valid form of identification to vote in the US elections?
Should the use of illicit drugs be decriminalized?

Remember, the list above is not exhaustive. It’s just a place to begin. Find something that you feel passionate about and make sure that your speech is something you feel excited about researching. Then, research it to the moon and back, crafting an argument with facts and logic that can persuade even the most emotional audience, and give a persuasive speech that would change the mind of the most fierce opposition.

Check out Empowerly’s blog for more tips and tricks on applying to college and growing your abilities as a student. Whether you are working on your college applications or just want to impress the college admissions team, Empowerly has your back.

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Student Opinion

310 Prompts for Argumentative Writing

Questions on everything from mental health and sports to video games and dating. Which ones inspire you to take a stand?

Breanna Campbell and Nathaniel Esubonteng, in “Vote 16” sweatshirts, are interviewed by a television reporter at Newark City Hall.

By Natalie Proulx

Does social media harm young people’s mental health? Do video games deserve the bad rap they often get? Should parents track their children? Who is the greatest athlete of all time?

Every school day, we publish new questions for students based on the news of the day, including prompts, like these, that inspire persuasive writing.

Below, we’ve rounded up over 300 of those argumentative prompts, organized by topic, all in one place. They cover everything from parenting and schools to music and social media. Each one, drawn from our Student Opinion column , links to a free New York Times article as well as additional subquestions that can help you think more deeply about it.

You can use these prompts however you like, whether to inspire an entry for our new Open Letter Contest , to hone your persuasive writing skills or simply to share your opinions on the issues of today. So scroll through the list below and see which ones inspire you to take a stand.

If you enjoy these questions, know that you can find all of our argumentative writing prompts, as they publish, here . Students 13 and up from anywhere in the world are invited to comment.

Argumentative Prompt Topics

Technology and social media, college, work and money, health and relationships, gender and race, arts and entertainment, parenting and childhood, government and politics, animals, science and time.

Social Media

1. Does Social Media Harm Young People’s Mental Health? 2. How Much Should Speech Be Moderated on Social Media? 3. Should the United States Ban TikTok? 4. How Young Is Too Young to Use Social Media? 5. Should Kids Be Social Media Influencers? 6. What Should Be Done to Protect Children Online? 7. Should There Be Separate Social Media Apps for Children? 8. Are You a Fan of ‘School Accounts’ on Social Media? 9. Will Social Media Help or Hurt Your College and Career Goals? 10. Is It Ever OK to Use Strangers as Content for Social Media?

Phones and Devices

11. Should More Teenagers Ditch Their Smartphones? 12. Should the Adults in Your Life Be Worried by How Much You Use Your Phone? 13. Should Phones Ever Be a Part of Family or Holiday Gatherings? 14. What Are Your Texting Dos and Don’ts? 15. Does Grammar Still Matter in the Age of Twitter? 16. Is Your Phone Love Hurting Your Relationships? 17. Should Texting While Driving Be Treated Like Drunken Driving? 18. How Young Is Too Young for an Apple Watch?

The Internet

19. Do Memes Make the Internet a Better Place? 20. How Excited Are You About the Metaverse? 21. Should Websites Force Users to Prove How Old They Are? 22. What Is the Best Way to Stop Abusive Language Online? 23. How Do You Feel About Cancel Culture? 24. Does Online Public Shaming Prevent Us From Being Able to Grow and Change? 25. Do You Think Online Conspiracy Theories Can Be Dangerous? 26. Does Technology Make Us More Alone?

School Discipline and Attendance

27. Should Schools Ban Cellphones? 28. How Should Schools Hold Students Accountable for Hurting Others? 29. What Are Your Thoughts on Uniforms and Strict Dress Codes? 30. Should Schools Test Their Students for Nicotine and Drug Use? 31. How Can Schools Engage Students Who Are at Risk of Dropping Out? 32. Should Students Be Allowed to Miss School for Mental Health Reasons? 33. Should Your School Day Start Later? 34. Should There Still Be Snow Days? 35. Do Kids Need Recess? 36. Should Students Be Punished for Not Having Lunch Money?

School Quality and Effectiveness

37. How Do You Think American Education Could Be Improved? 38. Do Schools Need to Do More to Hold Students Accountable? 39. Are Straight A’s Always a Good Thing? 40. Should Students Have the Same Teachers Year After Year? 41. Do Teachers Assign Too Much Homework? 42. Should We Get Rid of Homework? 43. Should We Eliminate Gifted and Talented Programs? 44. Is It Time to Get Rid of Timed Tests? 45. What Role Should Textbooks Play in Education? 46. How Should Senior Year in High School Be Spent? 47. Does Your School Need More Money? 48. Do School Employees Deserve More Respect — and Pay? 49. Should Public Preschool Be a Right for All Children?

Teaching and Learning

50. Do You Think We Need to Change the Way Math Is Taught? 51. Should Financial Literacy Be a Required Course in School? 52. Should Schools Teach Students Kitchen and Household Skills? 53. Do We Need Better Music Education? 54. What Are the Most Important Things Students Should Learn in School? 55. What Is the Purpose of Teaching U.S. History? 56. Do Schools Need to Do More to Support Visual Thinkers? 57. Is School a Place for Self-Expression? 58. Should Media Literacy Be a Required Course in School? 59. Can Empathy Be Taught? Should Schools Try to Help Us Feel One Another’s Pain? 60. Should Schools Teach You How to Be Happy? 61. Should All Schools Teach Cursive? 62. Should Kids Still Learn to Tell Time? 63. How Important Is Knowing a Foreign Language

Technology in School

64. How Should Schools Respond to ChatGPT? 65. Does Learning to Be a Good Writer Still Matter in the Age of A.I.? 66. Is Online Learning Effective? 67. Should Students Be Monitored When Taking Online Tests? 68. Should Schools Be Able to Discipline Students for What They Say on Social Media? 69. Can Social Media Be a Tool for Learning and Growth in Schools? 70. Should Facial Recognition Technology Be Used in Schools? 71. Is Live-Streaming Classrooms a Good Idea? 72. Should Teachers and Professors Ban Student Use of Laptops in Class? 73. Are the Web Filters at Your School Too Restrictive?

Education Politics

74. Do You Feel Your School and Teachers Welcome Both Conservative and Liberal Points of View? 75. Should Students Learn About Climate Change in School? 76. Should Teachers Provide Trigger Warnings for ‘Traumatic Content’? 77. Should Teachers Be Allowed to Wear Political Symbols? 78. What Do You Think About Efforts to Ban Books From School Libraries? 79. What Is Your Reaction to the Growing Fight Over What Young People Can Read? 80. What Do You Think About the Controversy Surrounding the New A.P. Course on African American Studies? 81. Should Schools or Employers Be Allowed to Tell People How They Should Wear Their Hair? 82. Does Prayer Have Any Place in Public Schools? 83. Should Schools Be Allowed to Censor Student Newspapers?

College Admissions

84. Should Colleges Consider Standardized Tests in Admissions? 85. Should Students Let ChatGPT Help Them Write Their College Essays? 86. What Is Your Reaction to the End of Race-Based Affirmative Action in College Admissions? 87. Are Early-Decision Programs Unfair? Should Colleges Do Away With Them? 88. Is the College Admissions Process Fair? 89. How Much Do You Think It Matters Where You Go to College? 90. Should Everyone Go to College? 91. Should College Be Free? 92. Is Student Debt Worth It? 93. Should High Schools Post Their Annual College Lists?

Campus Life

94. What Should Free Speech Look Like on Campus? 95. Should Greek Life on College Campuses Come to an End? 96. Should Universities Work to Curtail Student Drinking? 97. How Should the Problem of Sexual Assault on Campuses Be Addressed? 98. Are Lavish Amenities on College Campuses Useful or Frivolous? 99. Should ‘Despised Dissenters’ Be Allowed to Speak on College Campuses? 100. Should Emotional Support Animals Be Allowed on College Campuses?

Jobs and Careers

101. Is High School a Good Time to Train for a Career? 102. Is There Such a Thing as a ‘Useless’ College Major? 103. Should All High School Students Have Part-Time Jobs? 104. Should National Service Be Required for All Young Americans? 105. Is It OK to Use Family Connections to Get a Job?

Money and Business

106. Do You Think the American Dream Is Real? 107. Should All Young People Learn How to Invest in the Stock Market? 108. Should We All Go Cashless? 109. When Should You Tip? 110. Should We End the Practice of Tipping? 111. Are You a Crypto Optimist or Skeptic? 112. Do Celebrities and Influencers Make You Want to Buy What They’re Selling? 113. Is $1 Billion Too Much Money for Any One Person to Have? 114. Are C.E.O.s Paid Too Much? 115. Is It Immoral to Increase the Price of Goods During a Crisis? 116. What Should Stores Do With Unsold Goods? 117. Is There a ‘Right Way’ to Be a Tourist? 118. Who Should We Honor on Our Money?

Mental Health

119. Is Teen Mental Health in a State of Crisis? 120. ‘Love-Bombing.’ ‘Gaslighting.’ ‘Victim.’ Is ‘Trauma Talk’ Overused? 121. Does Achieving Success Always Include Being Happy? 122. Is Struggle Essential to Happiness? 123. Should Schools Teach Mindfulness? 124. How Can We Bring an End to the ‘Epidemic of Loneliness’? 125. Does Every Country Need a ‘Loneliness Minister’? 126. What Ideas Do You Have to Bring Your Community Closer Together? 127. Are Emotional-Support Animals a Scam? 128. Is It OK to Laugh During Dark Times?

Dating and Relationships

129. Who Should Pay for Dates? 130. Do Marriage Proposals Still Have a Place in Today’s Society? 131. Should Your Significant Other Be Your Best Friend? 132. How Do You Think Technology Affects Dating?

Physical Health

133. Should Governments Do More to Discourage People From Smoking and Vaping? 134. How Should Adults Talk to Kids About Drugs? 135. Can Laziness Be a Good Thing? 136. Should There Be Requirements for Teens Who Want to Ride E-Bikes? 137. What Advice Should Parents and Counselors Give Teenagers About Sexting? 138. Should All Children Be Vaccinated? 139. Do We Worry Too Much About Germs?

140. Is It Becoming More Acceptable for Men and Boys to Cry? 141. Is It Harder for Men and Boys to Make and Keep Friends? 142. Should Award Shows Eliminate Gendered Categories? 143. Should There Be More Gender Options on Identification Documents? 144. Justice Ginsburg Fought for Gender Equality. How Close Are We to Achieving That Goal? 145. What Should #MeToo Mean for Teenage Boys? 146. What Is Hard About Being a Boy? 147. Should There Be More Boy Dolls? 148. Is Single-Sex Education Still Useful? 149. Are Beauty Pageants Still Relevant? 150. Should Period Products Be Free? 151. What Are Your Thoughts on Last Names? 152. What Rules Should Apply to Transgender Athletes When They Compete? 153. What Is Your Reaction to the Recent Wave of Legislation That Seeks to Regulate the Lives of Transgender Youths? 154. What Do You Wish Lawmakers Knew About How Anti-L.G.B.T.Q. Legislation Affects Teenagers?

Identity, Race and Ethnicity

155. How Should Schools Respond to Racist Jokes? 156. How Should Parents Teach Their Children About Race and Racism? 157. What Is Your Reaction to Efforts to Limit Teaching on Race in Schools? 158. How Should Racial Slurs in Literature Be Handled in the Classroom? 159. Should Confederate Statues Be Removed or Remain in Place? 160. Should We Rename Schools Named for Historical Figures With Ties to Racism, Sexism or Slavery? 161. How Should We Remember the Problematic Actions of the Nation’s Founders? 162. Does the United States Owe Reparations to the Descendants of Enslaved People? 163. What Can History Teach Us About Resilience? 164. Should All Americans Receive Anti-Bias Education? 165. Is Fear of ‘The Other’ Poisoning Public Life? 166. What Stereotypical Characters Make You Cringe? 167. When Talking About Identity, How Much Do Words Matter? 168. How Useful Is It to Be Multilingual?

TV and Movies

169. Is True Crime As a Form of Entertainment Ethical? 170. Should Old TV Shows Be Brought Back? 171. Does Reality TV Deserve Its Bad Rap? 172. How Closely Should Actors’ Identities Reflect the Roles They Play? 173. In the Age of Digital Streaming, Are Movie Theaters Still Relevant? 174. Do We Need More Female Superheroes? 175. Is Hollywood Becoming More Diverse? 176. When Does Lying in Comedy Cross a Line? 177. How Do You Feel About ‘Nepotism Babies’?

Music and Video Games

178. Will A.I. Replace Pop Stars? 179. If Two Songs Sound Alike, Is It Stealing? 180. Should Musicians Be Allowed to Copy or Borrow From Other Artists? 181. How Do You Feel About Censored Music? 182. What Are the Greatest Songs of All Time? 183. Do Video Games Deserve the Bad Rap They Often Get? 184. Should There Be Limits on How Much Time Young People Spend Playing Video Games? 185. Should More Parents Play Video Games With Their Kids?

186. Are A.I.-Generated Pictures Art? 187. What Work of Art Should Your Friends Fall in Love With? 188. If Artwork Offends People, Should It Be Removed? 189. Should Museums Return Looted Artifacts to Their Countries of Origin? 190. Should Art Come With Trigger Warnings? 191. Is the Digital Era Improving or Ruining the Experience of Art? 192. Are Museums Still Important in the Digital Age? 193. Can You Separate Art From the Artist? 194. Are There Subjects That Should Be Off-Limits to Artists, or to Certain Artists in Particular? 195. Should Graffiti Be Protected?

Books and Literature

196. Is Listening to a Book Just as Good as Reading It? 197. Should Classic Children’s Books Be Updated for Today’s Young Readers? 198. Should White Writers Translate a Black Author’s Work? 199. Is There Any Benefit to Reading Books You Hate? 200. Should Libraries Get Rid of Late Fees?

201. What’s the Best — and Worst — Part of Being a Sports Fan? 202. Who Is the GOAT? 203. Do Women’s Sports Deserve More Attention? 204. What Should Be Done About the Gender Pay Gap in Sports? 205. Should Girls and Boys Sports Teams Compete in the Same League? 206. Should More Sports Be Coed? 207. College Athletes Can Now Be Paid. But Not All of Them Are Seeing Money. Is That Fair? 208. Should High School-Age Basketball Players Be Able to Get Paid? 209. Are Some Youth Sports Too Intense? 210. Are Youth Sports Too Competitive? 211. Is It Bad Sportsmanship to Run Up the Score in Youth Sports? 212. Is It Ethical to Be a Football Fan? 213. Does the N.F.L. Have a Race Problem? 214. What New Rules Would Improve Your Favorite Sport? 215. What Sports Deserve More Hype? 216. How Should We Punish Sports Cheaters? 217. Should Technology in Sports Be Limited? 218. Does Better Sports Equipment Unfairly Improve Athletic Ability? 219. Is It Offensive for Sports Teams and Their Fans to Use Native American Names, Imagery and Gestures? 220. Is It Selfish to Pursue Risky Sports Like Extreme Mountain Climbing? 221. Should Cheerleading Be an Olympic Sport?

Related Writing Prompt

222. Should Parents Ever Be Held Responsible for the Harmful Actions of Their Children? 223. Where Is the Line Between Helping a Child Become More Resilient and Pushing Them Too Hard? 224. Should Parents Give Children More Responsibility at Younger Ages? 225. Should Parents Tell Children the Truth About Santa? 226. Should Parents Weigh in on Their Kids’ Dating Lives? 227. Should Parents Track Their Children? 228. How Should Parents Support a Student Who Has Fallen Behind in School? 229. Do Parents Ever Cross a Line by Helping Too Much With Schoolwork? 230. What’s the Best Way to Discipline Children? 231. What Are Your Thoughts on ‘Snowplow Parents’? 232. Should Stay-at-Home Parents Be Paid? 233. Should Parents Bribe Their Children?

Childhood and Growing Up

234. Is It Harder to Grow Up in the 21st Century Than It Was in the Past? 235. Is Childhood Today Over-Supervised? 236. When Do You Become an Adult? 237. Who Should Decide Whether a Teenager Can Get a Tattoo or Piercing? 238. Do We Give Children Too Many Trophies? 239. What Can Older Generations Learn From Gen Z? 240. What Is the Worst Toy Ever?

Legislation and Policy

241. Should the Death Penalty Be Abolished? 242. Should Marijuana Be Legal? 243. Should the United States Decriminalize the Possession of Drugs? 244. What Is Your Reaction to the State of Abortion Rights? 245. Should the Government Cancel Student Debt? 246. Should Public Transit Be Free? 247. Should There Be More Public Restrooms? 248. Should the U.S. Be Doing More to Prevent Child Poverty? 249. Should the Government Provide a Guaranteed Income for Families With Children? 250. Should Law Enforcement Be Able to Use DNA Data From Genealogy Websites for Criminal Investigations?

Gun Violence

251. Are You Concerned About Violence in America? 252. How Should Americans Deal With the Problem of Gun Violence? 253. What Should Lawmakers Do About Guns and Gun Violence? 254. Should the U.S. Ban Military-Style Semiautomatic Weapons? 255. Should Teachers Be Armed With Guns?

Voting and Elections

256. How Much Faith Do You Have in the U.S. Political System? 257. Is the Electoral College a Problem? Does It Need to Be Fixed? 258. Does Everyone Have a Responsibility to Vote? 259. Should We All Be Able to Vote by Mail? 260. Should There Be a Minimum Voting Age? 261. Should the Voting Age Be Lowered to 16? 262. Should Ex-Felons Have the Right to Vote? 263. Are Presidential Debates Helpful to Voters? Or Should They Be Scrapped?

Freedoms and Rights

264. How Important Is Freedom of the Press? 265. Why Does the Right to Protest Matter? 266. Does the U.S. Constitution Need an Equal Rights Amendment? 267. Do You Care Who Sits on the Supreme Court? Should We Care? 268. Should You Have a Right to Be Rude? 269. Should Prisons Offer Incarcerated People Education Opportunities?

Civic Participation

270. Are You Optimistic About the State of the World? 271. If You Could Take On One Problem Facing Our World, What Would It Be? 272. If You Were Mayor, What Problems Facing Your Community Would You Tackle? 273. Do You Think Teenagers Can Make a Difference in the World? 274. Do You Think It Is Important for Teenagers to Participate in Political Activism? 275. Is Your Generation Doing Its Part to Strengthen Our Democracy? 276. How Is Your Generation Changing Politics? 277. Why Is It Important for People With Different Political Beliefs to Talk to Each Other? 278. Are We Being Bad Citizens If We Don’t Keep Up With the News? 279. Why Do Bystanders Sometimes Fail to Help When They See Someone in Danger? 280. When Is It OK to Be a Snitch? 281. Should Reporters Ever Help the People They Are Covering? 282. Should Celebrities Weigh In on Politics? 283. Should Athletes Speak Out On Social and Political Issues? 284. Should Corporations Take Political Stands? 285. What Do You Think the Role of the First Lady — or First Spouse — Should Be Today?

286. Is Animal Testing Ever Justified? 287. What Is Our Responsibility to Lab Animals? 288. What Are Your Thoughts About Hunting Animals? 289. Should We Be Concerned With Where We Get Our Pets? 290. What Do You Think of Pet Weddings? 291. Is It Wrong to Focus on Animal Welfare When Humans Are Suffering? 292. Should We Bring Back Animals From Extinction? 293. Are Zoos Immoral? 294. Do Bugs Deserve More Respect?

Environment and Science

295. What Role Should Young People Play in the Fight Against Climate Change? 296. Should We Be More Optimistic About Efforts to Combat Climate Change? 297. How Far Is Too Far in the Fight Against Climate Change? 298. Should Plastic Bags Be Banned Everywhere? 299. Is It Ethical to Create Genetically Edited Humans? 300. Should We Still Be Sending Astronauts to Space? 301. Do You Think Pluto Should Be a Planet? 302. Should We Treat Robots Like People?

Time and Seasons

303. What Is the Best Month of the Year? What Is the Worst? 304. Would Life Be Better Without Time Zones? 305. Do You Think It Is Time to Get Rid of Daylight Saving Time? 306. When Do Holiday Decorations Go From Festive to Excessive? 307. Should We Rethink Thanksgiving? 308. When Does a Halloween Costume Cross the Line? 309. Should School Be a Place to Celebrate Halloween? 310. Should the Week Be Four Days Instead of Five?

Students 13 and older in the United States and Britain, and 16 and older elsewhere, are invited to comment. All comments are moderated by the Learning Network staff, but please keep in mind that once your comment is accepted, it will be made public and may appear in print.

Find more Student Opinion questions here. Teachers, check out this guide to learn how you can incorporate these prompts into your classroom.

Natalie Proulx joined The Learning Network as a staff editor in 2017 after working as an English language arts teacher and curriculum writer. More about Natalie Proulx

Persuasive Speech

Students prepare and present a speech designed to persuade the audience for or against a proposition of policy, proposition of value, or proposition of fact on a topic of local, regional, national, or international concern.

The War at Stanford

I didn’t know that college would be a factory of unreason.

collage of stanford university architecture and students protesting

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ne of the section leaders for my computer-science class, Hamza El Boudali, believes that President Joe Biden should be killed. “I’m not calling for a civilian to do it, but I think a military should,” the 23-year-old Stanford University student told a small group of protesters last month. “I’d be happy if Biden was dead.” He thinks that Stanford is complicit in what he calls the genocide of Palestinians, and that Biden is not only complicit but responsible for it. “I’m not calling for a vigilante to do it,” he later clarified, “but I’m saying he is guilty of mass murder and should be treated in the same way that a terrorist with darker skin would be (and we all know terrorists with dark skin are typically bombed and drone striked by American planes).” El Boudali has also said that he believes that Hamas’s October 7 attack was a justifiable act of resistance, and that he would actually prefer Hamas rule America in place of its current government (though he clarified later that he “doesn’t mean Hamas is perfect”). When you ask him what his cause is, he answers: “Peace.”

I switched to a different computer-science section.

Israel is 7,500 miles away from Stanford’s campus, where I am a sophomore. But the Hamas invasion and the Israeli counterinvasion have fractured my university, a place typically less focused on geopolitics than on venture-capital funding for the latest dorm-based tech start-up. Few students would call for Biden’s head—I think—but many of the same young people who say they want peace in Gaza don’t seem to realize that they are in fact advocating for violence. Extremism has swept through classrooms and dorms, and it is becoming normal for students to be harassed and intimidated for their faith, heritage, or appearance—they have been called perpetrators of genocide for wearing kippahs, and accused of supporting terrorism for wearing keffiyehs. The extremism and anti-Semitism at Ivy League universities on the East Coast have attracted so much media and congressional attention that two Ivy presidents have lost their jobs. But few people seem to have noticed the culture war that has taken over our California campus.

For four months, two rival groups of protesters, separated by a narrow bike path, faced off on Stanford’s palm-covered grounds. The “Sit-In to Stop Genocide” encampment was erected by students in mid-October, even before Israeli troops had crossed into Gaza, to demand that the university divest from Israel and condemn its behavior. Posters were hung equating Hamas with Ukraine and Nelson Mandela. Across from the sit-in, a rival group of pro-Israel students eventually set up the “Blue and White Tent” to provide, as one activist put it, a “safe space” to “be a proud Jew on campus.” Soon it became the center of its own cluster of tents, with photos of Hamas’s victims sitting opposite the rubble-ridden images of Gaza and a long (and incomplete) list of the names of slain Palestinians displayed by the students at the sit-in.

Some days the dueling encampments would host only a few people each, but on a sunny weekday afternoon, there could be dozens. Most of the time, the groups tolerated each other. But not always. Students on both sides were reportedly spit on and yelled at, and had their belongings destroyed. (The perpetrators in many cases seemed to be adults who weren’t affiliated with Stanford, a security guard told me.) The university put in place round-the-clock security, but when something actually happened, no one quite knew what to do.

Conor Friedersdorf: How October 7 changed America’s free speech culture

Stanford has a policy barring overnight camping, but for months didn’t enforce it, “out of a desire to support the peaceful expression of free speech in the ways that students choose to exercise that expression”—and, the administration told alumni, because the university feared that confronting the students would only make the conflict worse. When the school finally said the tents had to go last month, enormous protests against the university administration, and against Israel, followed.

“We don’t want no two states! We want all of ’48!” students chanted, a slogan advocating that Israel be dismantled and replaced by a single Arab nation. Palestinian flags flew alongside bright “Welcome!” banners left over from new-student orientation. A young woman gave a speech that seemed to capture the sense of urgency and power that so many students here feel. “We are Stanford University!” she shouted. “We control things!”

“W e’ve had protests in the past,” Richard Saller, the university’s interim president, told me in November—about the environment, and apartheid, and Vietnam. But they didn’t pit “students against each other” the way that this conflict has.

I’ve spoken with Saller, a scholar of Roman history, a few times over the past six months in my capacity as a student journalist. We first met in September, a few weeks into his tenure. His predecessor, Marc Tessier-Lavigne, had resigned as president after my reporting for The Stanford Daily exposed misconduct in his academic research. (Tessier-Lavigne had failed to retract papers with faked data over the course of 20 years. In his resignation statement , he denied allegations of fraud and misconduct; a Stanford investigation determined that he had not personally manipulated data or ordered any manipulation but that he had repeatedly “failed to decisively and forthrightly correct mistakes” from his lab.)

In that first conversation, Saller told me that everyone was “eager to move on” from the Tessier-Lavigne scandal. He was cheerful and upbeat. He knew he wasn’t staying in the job long; he hadn’t even bothered to move into the recently vacated presidential manor. In any case, campus, at that time, was serene. Then, a week later, came October 7.

The attack was as clear a litmus test as one could imagine for the Middle East conflict. Hamas insurgents raided homes and a music festival with the goal of slaughtering as many civilians as possible. Some victims were raped and mutilated, several independent investigations found. Hundreds of hostages were taken into Gaza and many have been tortured.

This, of course, was bad. Saying this was bad does not negate or marginalize the abuses and suffering Palestinians have experienced in Gaza and elsewhere. Everyone, of every ideology, should be able to say that this was bad. But much of this campus failed that simple test.

Two days after the deadliest massacre of Jews since the Holocaust, Stanford released milquetoast statements marking the “moment of intense emotion” and declaring “deep concern” over “the crisis in Israel and Palestine.” The official statements did not use the words Hamas or violence .

The absence of a clear institutional response led some teachers to take matters into their own hands. During a mandatory freshman seminar on October 10, a lecturer named Ameer Loggins tossed out his lesson plan to tell students that the actions of the Palestinian “military force” had been justified, that Israelis were colonizers, and that the Holocaust had been overemphasized, according to interviews I conducted with students in the class. Loggins then asked the Jewish students to identify themselves. He instructed one of them to “stand up, face the window, and he kind of kicked away his chair,” a witness told me. Loggins described this as an effort to demonstrate Israel’s treatment of Palestinians. (Loggins did not reply to a request for comment; a spokesperson for Stanford said that there were “different recollections of the details regarding what happened” in the class.)

“We’re only in our third week of college, and we’re afraid to be here,” three students in the class wrote in an email that night to administrators. “This isn’t what Stanford was supposed to be.” The class Loggins taught is called COLLEGE, short for “Civic, Liberal, and Global Education,” and it is billed as an effort to develop “the skills that empower and enable us to live together.”

Loggins was suspended from teaching duties and an investigation was opened; this angered pro-Palestine activists, who organized a petition that garnered more than 1,700 signatures contesting the suspension. A pamphlet from the petitioners argued that Loggins’s behavior had not been out of bounds.

The day after the class, Stanford put out a statement written by Saller and Jenny Martinez, the university provost, more forcefully condemning the Hamas attack. Immediately, this new statement generated backlash.

Pro-Palestine activists complained about it during an event held the same day, the first of several “teach-ins” about the conflict. Students gathered in one of Stanford’s dorms to “bear witness to the struggles of decolonization.” The grievances and pain shared by Palestinian students were real. They told of discrimination and violence, of frightened family members subjected to harsh conditions. But the most raucous reaction from the crowd was in response to a young woman who said, “You ask us, do we condemn Hamas? Fuck you!” She added that she was “so proud of my resistance.”

David Palumbo-Liu, a professor of comparative literature with a focus on postcolonial studies, also spoke at the teach-in, explaining to the crowd that “European settlers” had come to “replace” Palestine’s “native population.”

Palumbo-Liu is known as an intelligent and supportive professor, and is popular among students, who call him by his initials, DPL. I wanted to ask him about his involvement in the teach-in, so we met one day in a café a few hundred feet away from the tents. I asked if he could elaborate on what he’d said at the event about Palestine’s native population. He was happy to expand: This was “one of those discussions that could go on forever. Like, who is actually native? At what point does nativism lapse, right? Well, you haven’t been native for X number of years, so …” In the end, he said, “you have two people who both feel they have a claim to the land,” and “they have to live together. Both sides have to cede something.”

The struggle at Stanford, he told me, “is to find a way in which open discussions can be had that allow people to disagree.” It’s true that Stanford has utterly failed in its efforts to encourage productive dialogue. But I still found it hard to reconcile DPL’s words with his public statements on Israel, which he’d recently said on Facebook should be “the most hated nation in the world.” He also wrote: “When Zionists say they don’t feel ‘safe’ on campus, I’ve come to see that as they no longer feel immune to criticism of Israel.” He continued: “Well as the saying goes, get used to it.”

Z ionists, and indeed Jewish students of all political beliefs, have been given good reason to fear for their safety. They’ve been followed, harassed, and called derogatory racial epithets. At least one was told he was a “dirty Jew.” At least twice, mezuzahs have been ripped from students’ doors, and swastikas have been drawn in dorms. Arab and Muslim students also face alarming threats. The computer-science section leader, El Boudali, a pro-Palestine activist, told me he felt “safe personally,” but knew others who did not: “Some people have reported feeling like they’re followed, especially women who wear the hijab.”

In a remarkably short period of time, aggression and abuse have become commonplace, an accepted part of campus activism. In January, Jewish students organized an event dedicated to ameliorating anti-Semitism. It marked one of Saller’s first public appearances in the new year. Its topic seemed uncontroversial, and I thought it would generate little backlash.

Protests began before the panel discussion even started, with activists lining the stairs leading to the auditorium. During the event they drowned out the panelists, one of whom was Israel’s special envoy for combating anti-Semitism, by demanding a cease-fire. After participants began cycling out into the dark, things got ugly.

Activists, their faces covered by keffiyehs or medical masks, confronted attendees. “Go back to Brooklyn!” a young woman shouted at Jewish students. One protester, who emerged as the leader of the group, said that she and her compatriots would “take all of your places and ensure Israel falls.” She told attendees to get “off our fucking campus” and launched into conspiracy theories about Jews being involved in “child trafficking.” As a rabbi tried to leave the event, protesters pursued him, chanting, “There is only one solution! Intifada revolution!”

At one point, some members of the group turned on a few Stanford employees, including another rabbi, an imam, and a chaplain, telling them, “We know your names and we know where you work.” The ringleader added: “And we’ll soon find out where you live.” The religious leaders formed a protective barrier in front of the Jewish students. The rabbi and the imam appeared to be crying.

scenes from student protest; row of tents at Stanford

S aller avoided the protest by leaving through another door. Early that morning, his private residence had been vandalized. Protesters frequently tell him he “can’t hide” and shout him down. “We charge you with genocide!” they chant, demanding that Stanford divest from Israel. (When asked whether Stanford actually invested in Israel, a spokesperson replied that, beyond small exposures from passive funds that track indexes such as the S&P 500, the university’s endowment “has no direct holdings in Israeli companies, or direct holdings in defense contractors.”)

When the university finally said the protest tents had to be removed, students responded by accusing Saller of suppressing their right to free speech. This is probably the last charge he expected to face. Saller once served as provost at the University of Chicago, which is known for holding itself to a position of strict institutional neutrality so that its students can freely explore ideas for themselves. Saller has a lifelong belief in First Amendment rights. But that conviction in impartial college governance does not align with Stanford’s behavior in recent years. Despite the fact that many students seemed largely uninterested in the headlines before this year, Stanford’s administrative leadership has often taken positions on political issues and events, such as the Paris climate conference and the murder of George Floyd. After Russia invaded Ukraine, Stanford’s Hoover Tower was lit up in blue and yellow, and the school released a statement in solidarity.

Thomas Chatterton Williams: Let the activists have their loathsome rallies

When we first met, a week before October 7, I asked Saller about this. Did Stanford have a moral duty to denounce the war in Ukraine, for example, or the ethnic cleansing of Uyghur Muslims in China? “On international political issues, no,” he said. “That’s not a responsibility for the university as a whole, as an institution.”

But when Saller tried to apply his convictions on neutrality for the first time as president, dozens of faculty members condemned the response, many pro-Israel alumni were outraged, donors had private discussions about pulling funding, and an Israeli university sent an open letter to Saller and Martinez saying, “Stanford’s administration has failed us.” The initial statement had tried to make clear that the school’s policy was not Israel-specific: It noted that the university would not take a position on the turmoil in Nagorno-Karabakh (where Armenians are undergoing ethnic cleansing) either. But the message didn’t get through.

Saller had to beat an awkward retreat or risk the exact sort of public humiliation that he, as caretaker president, had presumably been hired to avoid. He came up with a compromise that landed somewhere in the middle: an unequivocal condemnation of Hamas’s “intolerable atrocities” paired with a statement making clear that Stanford would commit to institutional neutrality going forward.

“The events in Israel and Gaza this week have affected and engaged large numbers of students on our campus in ways that many other events have not,” the statement read. “This is why we feel compelled to both address the impact of these events on our campus and to explain why our general policy of not issuing statements about news events not directly connected to campus has limited the breadth of our comments thus far, and why you should not expect frequent commentary from us in the future.”

I asked Saller why he had changed tack on Israel and not on Nagorno-Karabakh. “We don’t feel as if we should be making statements on every war crime and atrocity,” he told me. This felt like a statement in and of itself.

In making such decisions, Saller works closely with Martinez, Stanford’s provost. I happened to interview her, too, a few days before October 7, not long after she’d been appointed. When I asked about her hopes for the job, she said that a “priority is ensuring an environment in which free speech and academic freedom are preserved.”

We talked about the so-called Leonard Law—a provision unique to California that requires private universities to be governed by the same First Amendment protections as public ones. This restricts what Stanford can do in terms of penalizing speech, putting it in a stricter bind than Harvard, the University of Pennsylvania, or any of the other elite private institutions that have more latitude to set the standards for their campus (whether or not they have done so).

So I was surprised when, in December, the university announced that abstract calls for genocide “clearly violate Stanford’s Fundamental Standard, the code of conduct for all students at the university.” The statement was a response to the outrage following the congressional testimony of three university presidents—outrage that eventually led to the resignation of two of them, Harvard’s Claudine Gay and Penn’s Liz Magill. Gay and Magill, who had both previously held positions at Stanford, did not commit to punishing calls for the genocide of Jews.

Experts told me that Stanford’s policy is impossible to enforce—and Saller himself acknowledged as much in our March interview.

“Liz Magill is a good friend,” Saller told me, adding, “Having watched what happened at Harvard and Penn, it seemed prudent” to publicly state that Stanford rejected calls for genocide. But saying that those calls violate the code of conduct “is not the same thing as to say that we could actually punish it.”

Stanford’s leaders seem to be trying their best while adapting to the situation in real time. But the muddled messaging has created a policy of neutrality that does not feel neutral at all.

When we met back in November, I tried to get Saller to open up about his experience running an institution in turmoil. What’s it like to know that so many students seem to believe that he—a mild-mannered 71-year-old classicist who swing-dances with his anthropologist wife—is a warmonger? Saller was more candid than I expected—perhaps more candid than any prominent university president has been yet. We sat in the same conference room as we had in September. The weather hadn’t really changed. Yet I felt like I was sitting in front of a different person. He was hunched over and looked exhausted, and his voice broke when he talked about the loss of life in Gaza and Israel and “the fact that we’re caught up in it.” A capable administrator with decades of experience, Saller seemed almost at a loss. “It’s been a kind of roller coaster, to be honest.”

He said he hadn’t anticipated the deluge of the emails “blaming me for lack of moral courage.” Anything the university says seems bound to be wrong: “If I say that our position is that we grieve over the loss of innocent lives, that in itself will draw some hostile reactions.”

“I find that really difficult to navigate,” he said with a sigh.

By March, it seemed that his views had solidified. He said he knew he was “a target,” but he was not going to be pushed into issuing any more statements. The continuing crisis seems to have granted him new insight. “I am certain that whatever I say will not have any material effect on the war in Gaza.” It’s hard to argue with that.

P eople tend to blame the campus wars on two villains: dithering administrators and radical student activists. But colleges have always had dithering administrators and radical student activists. To my mind, it’s the average students who have changed.

Elite universities attract a certain kind of student: the overachieving striver who has won all the right accolades for all the right activities. Is it such a surprise that the kids who are trained in the constant pursuit of perfect scores think they have to look at the world like a series of multiple-choice questions, with clearly right or wrong answers? Or that they think they can gamify a political cause in the same way they ace a standardized test?

Everyone knows that the only reliable way to get into a school like Stanford is to be really good at looking really good. Now that they’re here, students know that one easy way to keep looking good is to side with the majority of protesters, and condemn Israel.

It’s not that there isn’t real anger and anxiety over what is happening in Gaza—there is, and justifiably so. I know that among the protesters are many people who are deeply connected to this issue. But they are not the majority. What really activates the crowds now seems less a principled devotion to Palestine or to pacifism than a desire for collective action, to fit in by embracing the fashionable cause of the moment—as if a centuries-old conflict in which both sides have stolen and killed could ever be a simple matter of right and wrong. In their haste to exhibit moral righteousness, many of the least informed protesters end up being the loudest and most uncompromising.

Today’s students grew up in the Trump era, in which violent rhetoric has become a normal part of political discourse and activism is as easy as reposting an infographic. Many young people have come to feel that being angry is enough to foment change. Furious at the world’s injustices and desperate for a simple way to express that fury, they don’t seem interested in any form of engagement more nuanced than backing a pure protagonist and denouncing an evil enemy. They don’t, always, seem that concerned with the truth.

At the protest last month to prevent the removal of the sit-in, an activist in a pink Women’s March “pussy hat” shouted that no rape was committed by Hamas on October 7. “There hasn’t been proof of these rape accusations,” a student told me in a separate conversation, criticizing the Blue and White Tent for spreading what he considered to be misinformation about sexual violence. (In March, a United Nations report found “reasonable grounds to believe that conflict-related sexual violence,” including “rape and gang rape,” occurred in multiple locations on October 7, as well as “clear and convincing information” on the “rape and sexualized torture” of hostages.) “The level of propaganda” surrounding Hamas, he told me, “is just unbelievable.”

The real story at Stanford is not about the malicious actors who endorse sexual assault and murder as forms of resistance, but about those who passively enable them because they believe their side can do no wrong. You don’t have to understand what you’re arguing for in order to argue for it. You don’t have to be able to name the river or the sea under discussion to chant “From the river to the sea.” This kind of obliviousness explains how one of my friends, a gay activist, can justify Hamas’s actions, even though it would have the two of us—an outspoken queer person and a Jewish reporter—killed in a heartbeat. A similar mentality can exist on the other side: I have heard students insist on the absolute righteousness of Israel yet seem uninterested in learning anything about what life is like in Gaza.

I’m familiar with the pull of achievement culture—after all, I’m a product of the same system. I fell in love with Stanford as a 7-year-old, lying on the floor of an East Coast library and picturing all the cool technology those West Coast geniuses were dreaming up. I cried when I was accepted; I spent the next few months scrolling through the course catalog, giddy with anticipation. I wanted to learn everything.

I learned more than I expected. Within my first week here, someone asked me: “Why are all Jews so rich?” In 2016, when Stanford’s undergraduate senate had debated a resolution against anti-Semitism, one of its members argued that the idea of “Jews controlling the media, economy, government, and other societal institutions” represented “a very valid discussion.” (He apologized, and the resolution passed.) In my dorm last year, a student discussed being Jewish and awoke the next day to swastikas and a portrait of Hitler affixed to his door.

David Frum: There is no right to bully and harass

I grew up secularly, with no strong affiliation to Jewish culture. When I found out as a teenager that some of my ancestors had hidden their identity from their children and that dozens of my relatives had died in the Holocaust (something no living member of my family had known), I felt the barest tremor of identity. After I saw so many people I know cheering after October 7, I felt something stronger stir. I know others have experienced something similar. Even a professor texted me to say that she felt Jewish in a way she never had before.

But my frustration with the conflict on campus has little to do with my own identity. Across the many conversations and hours of formal interviews I conducted for this article, I’ve encountered a persistent anti-intellectual streak. I’ve watched many of my classmates treat death so cavalierly that they can protest as a pregame to a party. Indeed, two parties at Stanford were reported to the university this fall for allegedly making people say “Fuck Israel” or “Free Palestine” to get in the door. A spokesperson for the university said it was “unable to confirm the facts of what occurred,” but that it had “met with students involved in both parties to make clear that Stanford’s nondiscrimination policy applies to parties.” As a friend emailed me not long ago: “A place that was supposed to be a sanctuary from such unreason has become a factory for it.”

Readers may be tempted to discount the conduct displayed at Stanford. After all, the thinking goes, these are privileged kids doing what they always do: embracing faux-radicalism in college before taking jobs in fintech or consulting. These students, some might say, aren’t representative of America.

And yet they are representative of something: of the conduct many of the most accomplished students in my generation have accepted as tolerable, and what that means for the future of our country. I admire activism. We need people willing to protest what they see as wrong and take on entrenched systems of repression. But we also need to read, learn, discuss, accept the existence of nuance, embrace diversity of thought, and hold our own allies to high standards. More than ever, we need universities to teach young people how to do all of this.

F or so long , Stanford’s physical standoff seemed intractable. Then, in early February, a storm swept in, and the natural world dictated its own conclusion.

Heavy rains flooded campus. For hours, the students battled to save their tents. The sit-in activists used sandbags and anything else they could find to hold back the water—at one point, David Palumbo-Liu, the professor, told me he stood in the lashing downpour to anchor one of the sit-in’s tents with his own body. When the storm hit, many of the Jewish activists had been attending a discussion on anti-Semitism. They raced back and struggled to salvage the Blue and White Tent, but it was too late—the wind had ripped it out of the ground.

The next day, the weary Jewish protesters returned to discover that their space had been taken.

A new collection of tents had been set up by El Boudali, the pro-Palestine activist, and a dozen friends. He said they were there to protest Islamophobia and to teach about Islam and jihad, and that they were a separate entity from the Sit-In to Stop Genocide, though I observed students cycling between the tents. Palestinian flags now flew from the bookstore to the quad.

Administrators told me they’d quickly informed El Boudali and his allies that the space had been reserved by the Jewish advocates, and offered to help move them to a different location. But the protesters told me they had no intention of going. (El Boudali later said that they did not take over the entire space, and would have been “happy to exist side by side, but they wanted to kick us off entirely from that lawn.”)

When it was clear that the area where they’d set up their tents would not be ceded back to the pro-Israel group willingly, Stanford changed course and decided to clear everyone out in one fell swoop. On February 8, school officials ordered all students to vacate the plaza overnight. The university was finally going to enforce its rule prohibiting people from sleeping outside on campus and requiring the removal of belongings from the plaza between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. The order cited the danger posed by the storm as a justification for changing course and, probably hoping to avoid allegations of bias, described the decision as “viewpoint-neutral.”

That didn’t work.

About a week of protests, led by the sit-in organizers, followed. Chants were chanted. More demands for a “river to the sea” solution to the Israel problem were made. A friend boasted to me about her willingness to be arrested. Stanford sent a handful of staff members, who stood near balloons left over from an event earlier in the day. They were there, one of them told me, to “make students feel supported and safe.”

In the end, Saller and Martinez agreed to talk with the leaders of the sit-in about their demands to divest the university and condemn Israel, under the proviso that the activists comply with Stanford’s anti-camping guidelines “regardless of the outcome of discussions.” Eight days after they were first instructed to leave, 120 days after setting up camp, the sit-in protesters slept in their own beds. In defiance of the university’s instructions, they left behind their tents. But sometime in the very early hours of the morning, law-enforcement officers confiscated the structures. The area was cordoned off without any violence and the plaza filled once more with electric skateboards and farmers’ markets.

The conflict continues in its own way. Saller was just shouted down by protesters chanting “No peace on stolen land” at a Family Weekend event, and protesters later displayed an effigy of him covered in blood. Students still feel tense; Saller still seems worried. He told me that the university is planning to change all manner of things—residential-assistant training, new-student orientation, even the acceptance letters that students receive—in hopes of fostering a culture of greater tolerance. But no campus edict or panel discussion can address a problem that is so much bigger than our university.

At one rally last fall, a speaker expressed disillusionment about the power of “peaceful resistance” on college campuses. “What is there left to do but to take up arms?” The crowd cheered as he said Israel must be destroyed. But what would happen to its citizens? I’d prefer to believe that most protesters chanting “Palestine is Arab” and shouting that we must “smash the Zionist settler state” don’t actually think Jews should be killed en masse. But can one truly be so ignorant as to advocate widespread violence in the name of peace?

When the world is rendered in black-and-white—portrayed as a simple fight between colonizer and colonized—the answer is yes. Solutions, by this logic, are absolute: Israel or Palestine, nothing in between. Either you support liberation of the oppressed or you support genocide. Either Stanford is all good or all bad; all in favor of free speech or all authoritarian; all anti-Semitic or all Islamophobic.

At January’s anti-anti-Semitism event, I watched an exchange between a Jewish attendee and a protester from a few feet away. “Are you pro-Palestine?” the protester asked.

“Yes,” the attendee responded, and he went on to describe his disgust with the human-rights abuses Palestinians have faced for years.

“But are you a Zionist?”

“Then we are enemies.”

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university of new orleans
campus news
in memoriam: english professor and author carol gelderman

CAMPUS NEWS: MARCH 25, 2024

In memoriam, in memoriam: english professor and author carol gelderman.

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Carol Gelderman, former English professor and author known for her prolific writings, died March 8, 2024.

Carol Gelderman, an esteemed English professor at the University of New Orleans for more than three decades and the author of 10 books—including a biography of Henry Ford—died on March 8. She was 89.

After earning a doctorate from Northwestern University, Gelderman joined the University in 1972 and remained on the English faculty until her retirement in 2005. She was such a prolific and skilled writer that in 1993 she was named a Distinguished Professor, a prestigious title held by only five faculty members at any one time.

Her 10 published books included two textbooks about business and professional writing. A passionate student of American politics, she analyzed presidential speech writing in “All the President’s Words: The Bully Pulpit and the Creation of the Virtual Presidency.” But Gelderman was best known for her biographies. A review of “Henry Ford: The Wayward Capitalist” made the cover of Business Week . Her biography of the writer Mary McCarthy, “Mary McCarthy: A Life,” was reviewed on the front page of the New York Times Book Review.

She continued to write throughout her life. “A Free Man of Color and His Hotel: Race, Reconstruction, and the Role of the Federal Government,” was published in 2012 when she was 77. In it, she examined the life of James Wormley, a free Black man who owned and operated the most luxurious hotel in Washington, D.C., from the 1850s until the 1880s.

In his eulogy of Gelderman, former UNO provost, English professor and founder of the Creative Writing Workshop Rick Barton called her a “scholar and acclaimed writer, a cherished teacher, a caring colleague and a loyal friend.”

“Despite all the long hours of intellectual effort it took to research and write these amazingly dissimilar 10 books, Carol shined in other aspects of her life as well,” Barton said. “We all know university faculty who publish important books and articles but don’t bother to put the same effort into their teaching duties. Not Carol Gelderman. She was as devoted a teacher as she was a scholar.”

Before receiving master’s and doctoral degrees from Northwestern, Gelderman worked for the American Embassy in London for a year and in public television in Chicago, conducting on-air interviews of visiting VIPs for a show called “Profile Chicago.” In addition to her 10 books, she wrote dozens of articles on topics as varied as theatre, biography, politics and mutual funds.

“Carol Gelderman was a vivacious, gregarious and affable person. She had friends all over New Orleans,” Barton said. “Carol was beloved by so many of us because she never practiced self-aggrandizement. She was a literary star, but you’d never learn about that from her.”

Colleagues and friends are planning to hold a memorial for Gelderman on UNO’s campus. Those details are incomplete.

UNO doctoral student Krystyn Dupree accepts her student research grant award at the American College Counseling Association’s annual meeting.

Doctoral Student Wins Counseling Association Research Grant

University of New Orleans fine arts professor Anna Mecugni curated an exhibition in Bologna, Italy.

Italian Art Exhibition Curated by UNO Faculty Member

Theatre UNO will present “She Stoops to Conquer” as part of its 2023-24 performance season.

Theatre UNO Presents ‘She Stoops to Conquer’

Maryland middle school students face hate crime charges for Nazi salutes, swastikas

Three middle schoolers in Maryland were charged with hate crimes after they displayed swastikas, acted out Nazi salutes, and made "offensive comments" about a classmate's religious beliefs, county prosecutors announced last week.

The students were charged as juveniles with harassment and violations of state hate crimes statutes, the Calvert County State’s Attorney’s Office said in a news release Friday. The behavior began last December and the students refused to stop despite "repeated requests," county prosecutors added.

According to charging documents, the students displayed swastikas, made Nazi salutes, and "directed offensive comments to a classmate because of the classmate’s religious beliefs" for several months. The victim ultimately reported the conduct to Maryland State Police officers, who investigated and filed the charges against the students, county prosecutors said.

The three middle schoolers were identified as 13-year-old students at Plum Point Middle School in Calvert County, about 50 miles southeast of Washington, D.C. Their names have not been publicly released because they are minors.

County prosecutors said the charges will be forwarded to the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services.

"Maryland was founded on the principle of religious toleration. It is frankly astonishing that nearly 400 years later some people continue to persecute others based upon their religion," Calvert County State’s Attorney Robert Harvey said in a statement. "I call upon parents, educators, and community and faith leaders to make sure that our children know that religious persecution has no place in our society."

Calvert County Public Schools told USA TODAY on Monday that the school district is working with the county sheriff's office and is committed to "providing students and staff with an environment that is safe, welcoming, and free from all forms of discrimination."

"All complaints are investigated promptly," the school district said in an email. "Upon completion of an investigation, students and school personnel may be subject to disciplinary action or consequences for discriminatory behaviors."

Latest hate crime charges against middle school students

The charges against the three 13-year-olds came about over a week after six middle school students in Massachusetts were charged in Snapchat bullying incidents , officials said.

On March 14, Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni announced that state authorities will be pursuing criminal charges against six minors from Southwick, Massachusetts, for "their alleged roles in facilitating and participating in a hateful, racist online chat that included heinous language, threats, and a mock slave auction."

The six students were each charged with threatening to commit a crime, according to Gulluni. Of the six, two were also charged with interference with civil rights, and one of the two was charged with witness interference.

The students were accused of creating a Snapchat group chat in February, where several students shared derogatory remarks. "The investigation revealed that several students expressed hateful and racist comments, including notions of violence toward people of color, racial slurs, derogatory pictures and videos, and a mock slave auction directed at two particular juveniles," Gulluni said.

Nex Benedict case: Oklahoma prosecutors will not file charges in fight involving teenager Nex Benedict

Increase of antisemitism across the U.S.

According to recent data, antisemitic incidents have surged across the United States in recent years. Each year, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) compiles a report on incidents of antisemitic harassment, vandalism, or assault in America.In 2022, the ADL tracked a 36% increase in antisemitic incidents from the previous year. The total stood at 3,697 — the highest number on record since the organization began tracking incidents in 1979.In the aftermath of the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks, advocacy organizations saw a rise in reports of hate crimes against both Jews and Muslims. According to the ADL's January report , there have been nearly 3,300 antisemitic incidents recorded between Oct. 7, 2023, and Jan. 7, 2024.

This represents a 361-percent increase compared to the same period one year prior, which saw 712 incidents," the ADL said in a January news release.

Contributing: Anna Kaufman, USA TODAY

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Education, training and skills

Thousands more to train in future tech like AI as government unveils over £1.1 billion package to skill-up UK

Science Secretary Michelle Donelan outlined plans to upskill millions across the UK in AI, quantum and beyond in a speech at the Maths Summit in London.

£1.1 billion to train over 4000 students in future technologies.

Science and Technology Secretary sets out detailed plans to upskill millions across the UK
biggest-ever investment of more than £1 billion funding for thousands of students to pursue doctorates over the coming years in key future tech to grow economy and improve lives
further multi-million-pound lifts to skills opportunities and resources for those of all educational backgrounds and walks of life

Thousands more people across the UK will train and gain qualifications in future tech like artificial intelligence, and others that could transform areas like medicine, 6G and quantum computing, thanks to a package of more than £1.1 billion to skill-up the country.

Addressing the Maths Summit at the Science Museum in London today (Tuesday 12 March), the Science and Technology Secretary set out plans to revolutionise the UK’s skill-base in key industries, aiming to ensure the UK is home to the world’s most highly skilled and well-trained workforce in future technologies.

As part of these plans the Science and Technology Secretary unveiled the UK’s biggest-ever investment in engineering and physical science doctoral skills – the highest university degrees. Over £1 billion from government, business, charities and academia will train over 4,000 talented students across the UK, from Edinburgh to Bristol, in 65 Centres for Doctoral Training – ensuring the UK’s brightest minds have exciting opportunities to fulfil their ambitions closer to home.

The majority of opportunities will also be led from outside the south-east of England, with more than 350 places for students in Glasgow, over 300 in Edinburgh, over 250 in Bristol and over 150 in Sheffield and Manchester respectively.

It includes a Centre at King’s College London training researchers to revolutionise personalised surgery through advanced engineering such as micro-surgical robots and chemical techniques which allow for surgery ‘without the knife’ and work at the University of Bristol to take advantage of developments in digital chemistry, including artificial intelligence, to help develop new drugs, such as antibiotics and cancer treatments. Others will support the critical technologies of engineering biology, semiconductors, quantum technologies and future telecoms which are key to giving the UK a strategic advantage, building on our country’s strengths and helping to grow the economy.

It comes alongside further investment of over £60 million for new quantum skills programmes running until 2034 – addressing a top priority for businesses developing the next generation of quantum technologies, in being able to access the right skills and talent.

This includes £14 million for 100 quantum PhD studentships in universities across the UK and another £14 million to fund early career researchers, through a competition open now and running until 10 April. It also includes £4 million to create more apprenticeship pathways into quantum through a pilot scheme and ensuring those from a range of educational backgrounds can enter the quantum workforce. This will drive forward innovations that allow us to develop new drugs and materials, turbo charge machine learning, better diagnose and treat diseases, and more to boost economic growth and security.

Building on the Chancellor’s announcement of the £7.4 million AI upskilling fund , the Science and Technology Secretary issued a call to action for eligible small and medium enterprises in the Professional and Business Services sector to register their interest in the scheme, ahead of an information webinar in April and the application process opening in May. The pilot will help small and medium enterprises to unlock the opportunities AI brings and develop AI skills of the future, helping fuel growth across the economy.

Together these are the latest measures in the government’s mission to help businesses realise the enormous benefits of AI , which could increase UK GDP by up to 10.3% by 2030.

Addressing the Maths Summit, Science and Technology Secretary, Michelle Donelan, said:

Building on our reforms to the skills system will require work from each and every one of us – universities, schools, and businesses. By doubling down on our investments in skills and backing British business, we can lay the foundations for an economy fit for the future - an economy that creates jobs and improves lives for communities up and down the country. That is how we make our science and tech superpower mission a success.

Further measures announced today include:

An academic consortium led by the University of Birmingham will establish a £4.5 million medicines manufacturing skills centre of excellence. The centre, RESILIENCE, will include a network of academic and not-for-profit partners developing specialist training and accelerator programmes for those qualified to T-levels, to graduates to training opportunities in work.

The launch of a competition to select a delivery partner in March for the up to £3 million Science & Technology Venture Capital Fellowship Programme unveiled in November’s Autumn Statement. The scheme aims to bring in world-leading investors that will deliver breakthroughs in vaccines, AI , and robots and beyond, with places for 30 people open as part of the pilot scheme.

A new Future Telecoms Skills Taskforce, involving stakeholders from government, academia and industry will be launched to ensure the UK has the skills for a connected future among those of all education backgrounds.

Building on our campaign to drive more people into digital careers, we want to go further. We are working closely with industry and the Digital Skills Council to explore how we can continue to inspire people to choose careers in tech and widen access to the best free digital upskilling resources designed by industry.

Progress on supporting the establishment of a new National Academy for Maths which has been warmly received by the sector since a call for evidence was launched in January. Department for Science, Innovation and Technology ( DSIT ) will shortly publish a response ahead of releasing the final specification and launching a short competition to identify and organisation to receive government support.

Health and Social Care Secretary Victoria Atkins said:

Adopting the latest cutting-edge technology will allow us to deliver faster, simpler, and fairer care for patients, and this investment reflects the scale of our ambition. AI will form a central part of our recently announced £3.4 billion plan to boost productivity in the NHS, which will deliver quicker test results, replace outdated IT systems, and unlock £35 billion in savings. As part of the NHS Long Term Workforce Plan, we will also harness technological innovations to enable new ways of working, while recruiting and retaining hundreds of thousands more staff.

Professor Sheila Rowan, Chair of the Quantum Skills Taskforce, said:

I’m delighted to see these investments, targeting opportunities for apprentices, engineers, and scientists to start and develop rewarding careers within the UK quantum sector. More than doubling the number of quantum Centres for Doctoral Training demonstrates the UK’s long-term commitment to quantum technologies. These investments will bolster our world leading research, while supporting our innovative businesses to access the quantum skills and talent they need to grow. Developing these skills will be vital to achieve the UK’s ambitious goal of becoming a leading quantum-enabled economy, and unlocking the economic potential offered by quantum technologies. I look forward to supporting the UK in this endeavour by continuing the work of the Quantum Skills Taskforce.

Professor Charlotte Deane, Executive Chair of the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, part of UK Research and Innovation, said:

The Centres for Doctoral Training announced today will help to prepare the next generation of researchers, specialists and industry experts across a wide range of sectors and industries. Spanning locations across the UK and a wide range of disciplines, the new centres are a vivid illustration of the UK’s depth of expertise and potential, which will help us to tackle large-scale, complex challenges and benefit society and the economy. The high calibre of both the new centres and applicants is a testament to the abundance of research excellence across the UK, and EPSRC’s role as part of UKRI is to invest in this excellence to advance knowledge and deliver a sustainable, resilient and prosperous nation.

Notes to editors

Funding for the 65 CDTs are broken down as below:

£479 million by EPSRC, this funding includes £16 million of additional UKRI funding to support CDTs in quantum technologies.
Over £7 million from Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council, also part of UKRI , to co-fund three CDTs
£16 million by the MOD to support two CDTs
£169 million by UK universities
plus a further £420 million in financial and in-kind support from business partners.

The Medicines Manufacturing consortium involves University of Birmingham, UCL , Teesside University ( NHC ), Heriot-Watt University and Britest LTD.

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100 Persuasive Speech Topics for Students
100 Persuasive Speech Topics for Students. ThoughtCo. There is a small but important difference between planning a persuasive speech and writing a persuasive essay. First, if you are planning a persuasive speech, you should think about a topic that can engage your audience. For this reason, you may want to consider a few topics before settling ...
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Creating and delivering an interesting persuasive speech is a major endeavor. The last thing you want is to get stuck on the first step—selecting a persuasive speech topic. Don't worry, we've got you covered. To help you identify the perfect persuasive speech topic for you, we've compiled a list of 110 compelling persuasive speech ideas.
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She is the author of the chapbook A Great Dark House (Poetry Society of America, 2023) and a forthcoming novel (Viking/Penguin). "Innovative and invaluable…use this book as your college lifeline.". Looking for good persuasive speech topics that are relevant to an audience in 2023? We present 103 persuasive speech topics for students.
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105 Topics for a Persuasive Speech. Here's our list of 105 great persuasive speech ideas. We made sure to choose topics that aren't overdone, yet that many people will have an interest in, and we also made a point of choosing topics with multiple viewpoints rather than simplistic topics that have a more obvious right answer (i.e.
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Here is our list of 10 best persuasive speech topics. Money can't buy love or happiness. Cooking should be taught in schools. The minimum wage should be increased. Advertising is a mind game. Introverts make great leaders. Eating meat is unethical. Anyone under 16 should not be allowed to date.
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Texting while driving should be illegal. Using single-use plastic containers should be banned. School days should start later in the day. Immigration laws should be more lenient. Living with refugees from other countries. Students should be able to pick their schools. Parents should be able to pick their child's schools.
130 Inspiring Persuasive Speech Topics For Students
Narrow things down and do your best to define the goal of your speech. Study your target audience and check whether your persuasive speech addresses their concerns. Continue with the thesis statement representing your opinion or a certain notion. Create an outline for your speech with the hook sentence in the introduction.
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The aim of a persuasive speech is to inform, educate and convince or motivate an audience to do something. You are essentially trying to sway the audience to adopt your own viewpoint. The best persuasive speech topics are thought-provoking, daring and have a clear opinion. You should speak about something you are knowledgeable about and can ...
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Some persuasive speech topics for school to consider for public speaking students are: why every new citizen should learn both English and Spanish, or just another universal foreign language. Five ways to help the partially sighted or blind; visually impaired people in ordinairy life.
300+ Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics for Students
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Transition 1: Include a linking sentence that would tie your introduction to your speech's main body. Point 1—Need for action: Describe the problems concerning your topic and their effects, supporting your claims with evidence. Problem 1 + Effects + Evidence Problem 2 + Effects + Evidence Problem 3 + Effects + Evidence.
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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 ...
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There is a fine balance between interesting your audience, interesting to you, unique and fresh, all while being thought-provoking without being outright offensive. Here is a breakdown of various topics for persuasive speeches, organized by categories, to inspire you. 1. Arts & Culture. Art and culture are always hot topics amongst individuals ...
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220+ Persuasive Speech Topics For All Students (Updated 2023) Whether you're a student preparing for a class presentation or an aspiring public speaker looking to captivate audiences, choosing the right persuasive speech topic is crucial. However, the process can be overwhelming, with countless possibilities to consider.
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The media is responsible for the moral decline of teens. Teens must not get involved in online relationships. Troubled teens must do community service. No teen must be labeled a lost cause. Parents must never get teens too much money. Old school values must be implemented in schools. Bullying changes a teen forever.
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They raise awareness about important topics, challenge societal norms, and inspire individuals to take action. Through persuasive speeches, individuals can mobilize communities, influence public opinion, and contribute to meaningful transformations. 5. Effective Communication.
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This is our list of 80 good persuasive speech topics for college students. They should be enough for you to choose the topic which is the most suitable, or to come up with your own persuasive speech topic. Make your arguments strong and prove your viewpoints. May your voice be loud and your will be strong. Previous post Next post.
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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.
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Types of Persuasive Speech Topics. Factual Persuasive Speech - Students need to use facts and figures to demonstrate whether the topic is right or wrong.; Value Persuasive Speech - Claims either something is ethically correct or not.; Policy Persuasive Speech - This type of speech is about trying to promote laws, policies, and more.; However, there are numerous persuasive speech topics ...
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Value Persuasive Speech - Argues whether something is morally correct or not. Policy Persuasive Speech - Speeches that try to advance policies, laws and more. There are a lot of persuasive speech topics that we consider interesting enough to be chosen as given below. All these persuasive speech topics are relevant and will remain so for a ...
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The War at Stanford
Stanford has a policy barring overnight camping, but for months didn't enforce it, "out of a desire to support the peaceful expression of free speech in the ways that students choose to ...
In Memoriam: English Professor and Author Carol Gelderman
A passionate student of American politics, she analyzed presidential speech writing in "All the President's Words: The Bully Pulpit and the Creation of the Virtual Presidency." ... In addition to her 10 books, she wrote dozens of articles on topics as varied as theatre, biography, politics and mutual funds. "Carol Gelderman was a ...
Maryland students face hate crime charges for Nazi salutes, swastikas
1:44. Three middle schoolers in Maryland were charged with hate crimes after they displayed swastikas, acted out Nazi salutes, and made "offensive comments" about a classmate's religious beliefs ...
Thousands more to train in future tech like AI as government unveils
The majority of opportunities will also be led from outside the south-east of England, with more than 350 places for students in Glasgow, over 300 in Edinburgh, over 250 in Bristol and over 150 in ...

100 Persuasive Speech Topics for Students

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