controversial topics on essay

Debate Topics

Need to write an argumentative essay? Preparing for an upcoming debate? ProCon.org has over 100 topics complete with pro and con arguments, quotes and statistics from experts, historical information, and other pertinent research.

Abortion – Should abortion be legal?

Alternative Energy – Can alternative energy effectively replace fossil fuels?

American Socialism – Should the U.S. become socialist?

Animal Dissection – Should K-12 students dissect animals in science classrooms?

Animal Testing – Should animals be used for scientific or commercial testing?

Artificial Intelligence – Is artificial intelligence good for society?

Banned Books – Should parents or other adults be able to ban books from schools and libraries?

Binge-Watching – Is binge-watching good for you?

Cancel Culture – Is cancel culture (or callout culture) good for society?

CBD for Pets – Is CBD good for pets?

Cell Phone Radiation – Is cell phone radiation safe?

Cheerleading – Is cheerleading a sport?

Churches & Taxes – Should churches (including mosques, synagogues, etc.) remain tax-exempt?

College Education – Is a college education worth it?

Congressional Term Limits  – Should term limits be imposed on U.S. Senators and Representatives?

Constitutional Carry of Handguns – Should permitless, “constitutional carry” of guns be legal?

Corporal Punishment – Should corporal punishment be used in K-12 schools?

Corporate Tax Rate – Should the federal corporate income tax rate be raised?

Cuba Embargo – Should the United States maintain its embargo against Cuba?

DACA & Dreamers – Are DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) and the DREAM Act good for America?

Daylight Saving Time – Should the United States keep daylight saving time?

DC AND Puerto Rico Statehood – Should Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico be granted U.S. statehood?

Death Penalty – Should the death penalty be legal?

Defund the Police – Should police departments be defunded, if not abolished?

Dress Codes – Should dress codes be implemented and enforced?

Drinking Age – Should the drinking age be lowered from 21 to a younger age?

Drone Strikes – Should the United States continue its use of drone strikes abroad?

Drug Use in Sports – Should performance-enhancing drugs be accepted in sports?

Election Day National Holiday – Should the election day be made a national holiday?

Electoral College – Should the United States use the electoral college in presidential elections?

Employer Vaccine Mandates – Should employers be able to mandate vaccinations?

Felon Voting – Should people who have completed felony sentences be allowed to vote?

Fighting in Hockey – Should fighting be allowed in hockey?

Filibuster – Should the U.S. Senate keep the filibuster?

Fracking – Should the United States continue fracking

Free College – Should public college be tuition-free?

Fur Clothing Bans – Should fur clothing be banned?

GMOS – Should genetically modified organisms (GMOs) be grown?

Gold Standard – Should the United States return to a gold standard?

Golf – Is golf a sport and are golfers athletes?

Gun Control – Should more gun control laws be enacted?

Historic Statue Removal – Should historic statues be taken down?

Homework – Is homework beneficial?

Illegal Immigration – Should the U.S. government provide a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants?

Internet – Is the internet “making us stupid?”

Kneeling during the National Anthem – Is kneeling during the national anthem an appropriate form of protest?

Mandatory National Service – Should the United States have mandatory national service?

Medical Aid in Dying (MAID) – Should medical aid in dying be legal?

Medical Marijuana – Should medical marijuana be legal?

Milk – Should humans consume dairy milk?

Minimum Wage – Should the federal minimum wage be increased?

Net Neutrality – Should the U.S. have net neutrality laws?

Obesity – Is obesity a disease?

Olympics – Are the Olympic games an overall benefit for their host countries and cities?

OTC Birth Control Pills – Should birth control pills be available over-the-counter (OTC)?

Penny – Should the penny stay in circulation?

Pit Bull Bans – Should breed-specific legislation (“pit bull bans”) be enacted?

Pokémon – Is Pokémon Go good for our society?

Police Body Cameras – Should police officers wear body cameras?

Prescription Drug Costs – Should the U.S. federal government regulate prescription drug prices?

Presidential Election, 2024 – 2024 Presidential Election Site

Private Prisons – Should prisons be privatized?

Recreational Marijuana – Should recreational marijuana be legal?

Reparations for Slavery – Should the federal government pay reparations to the descendants of slaves?

Right to Healthcare – Should all Americans have the right (be entitled) to health care?

Sanctuary Cities – Should sanctuary cities receive federal funding?

Santa Claus – Is there really a Santa Claus?

Saturday Halloween – Should Halloween be moved permanently to Saturday?

School Uniforms – Should students have to wear school uniforms?

Single-use Plastics Ban – Should single-use plastics be banned?

Social Media & Digital Addiction – Does social media spur digital addiction and other social ills?

Social Security Privatization – Should social security be privatized?

Space Colonization – Should humans colonize space?

Standardized Tests – Do standardized tests improve education in America?

Student Loan Debt – Should student loan debt be eliminated via forgiveness or bankruptcy?

TikTok Bans – Should TikTok be banned?

Uber & Lyft – Are ride-sharing companies a benefit to society?

Universal Basic Income (UBI) – Should the United States implement a universal basic income?

U.S. Supreme Court Packing – Should packing the U.S. Supreme Court ever be considered?

Vaccines for Kids – Should states be allowed to mandate vaccines for school attendance??

Vaping E-Cigarettes – Is vaping e-cigarettes safe?

Vegetarianism – Should people become vegetarian?

Video Games & Violence – Do violent video games contribute to youth violence?

Voting Age – Should the voting age be lowered to 16?

Voting Machines – Are electronic voting machines the best method for voting?

Zoos – Should zoos exist?

Archived Topics

Please note that ProCon no longer updates these debates.

ACLU – Is the ACLU good for America?

Big Three Bailout – Should the big three car manufacturers be bailed out by the U.S. government?

Born Gay – Is sexual orientation determined at birth?

Climate Change – Is human activity primarily responsible for global climate change?

College Football Playoffs – Should college football replace the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) with a playoff system?

Dakota Access Pipeline – Should the Dakota Access Pipeline be completed?

D.A.R.E. – Is the D.A.R.E. program good for America’s kids (K-12)?

Gay Marriage – Should gay marriage be legal?

Congressional Insider Trading – Should insider trading by Congress be allowed?

Israeli-Palestinian Conflict – What are the solutions to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?

Obamacare – Is the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) good for America?

Paying College Athletes – Should colleges and universities pay college athletes?

President Bill Clinton – Was Bill Clinton a good president?

President Ronald Reagan – Was Ronald Reagan a good president?

Presidential Election, 2008 – Which candidate would make the best U.S. president?

Presidential Election, 2012 – Which candidate should be U.S. president in 2012?

Presidential Election, 2016 – The candidates and where they stand on the issues

Presidential Election, 2020 – 2020 Presidential Election Site

Prostitution – Should prostitution be legal?

School Vouchers – Should states have school voucher programs?

Tablets v. Textbooks -Should tablets replace textbooks in K-12 schools?

Teacher Tenure – Should teachers get tenure?

Under God in the Pledge – Should the words “under god” be in the U.S. Pledge of Allegiance?

U.S. Drone Shot down by Iran – Was the U.S. drone shot down by Iran over international waters?

U.S.-Iraq War – Should the U.S. have attacked Iraq?

WTC Muslim Center – Is it appropriate to build a muslim community center (aka the ”ground zero mosque”) near the World Trade Center site?

ProCon/Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc. 325 N. LaSalle Street, Suite 200 Chicago, Illinois 60654 USA

Natalie Leppard Managing Editor [email protected]

© 2023 Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc. All rights reserved

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• Essay Topics

100 Engaging Controversial Essay Topics

When students are asked to write an argumentative paper, they start with looking for controversial argumentative essay topics. It’s a good decision: if you succeed in finding something great to write about, you stand more chances at getting a satisfying grade. But despite knowing this, making a choice is not easy. For one thing, you should have a clear idea of what a controversial essay even is. It is a genre of writing where you present an opinion others could dispute and prove its validity as well as accuracy. In other words, you pick a subject that causes arguments among society members, voice your point of view, and work hard to prove it by relying on scientific evidence.

In the long run, you’ll benefit from completing a fair number of similar essays: you’ll understand what it takes to participate in debates and how to defend your position. The choice of topic is tough since while there are many potentially interesting things to discuss, only some of them will be to your liking, and even fewer will be something you understand well enough to argue about. We’ll be glad to show you how to approach the choosing process and how to settle on the best theme possible.

How to Pick Controversial Argumentative Essay Topics for College

At times, students are given a list from which they should pick their essay topics. This is a frustrating experience since they don’t get a right to really choose the topic they like. But fortunately, it doesn’t happen often, so if you are studying at college, you can expect to be given a free reign. Four tips below will show you how to go about picking an essay topic for a controversial paper.

• Go through things you find engaging.  Good controversial topics for essays are the ones that evoke some intense feelings in you. They could be positive or negative, but in any way, they should be something that makes you want to speak up. Recall the arguments you had online or with your friends and family recently. Maybe you saw something in the news and got angry? Did you read an article that got you passionate about the discussed topic? It could be anything, so think carefully.
• Play a choosing game.  If you have some essay ideas in mind but cannot settle on any of them, try a choosing game. This could also work in case you haven’t decided on anything at all yet. Pick a place, sit there, and note down everything you see or hear. Assign numbers to these things, and then ask a friend to choose one. Such an approach is fun, and it’s an easy way to arrive at a decision regarding your topic.
• Check sources.  When preparing for essay tasks, your first question should be, what are some controversial topics to write about? The second question should concern sources. Whatever subject you selected, it should be supported by credible resources that are peer-reviewed and have a DOI. Having an opposing position could be great, but if you are the only person who shares it, it’ll create some difficulties. Academic essays should be supported with some evidence, so your analysis cannot be performed merely based on your opinions. If you cannot locate trustworthy sources, better choose another topic.
• Discuss with the supervisor.  Once you made a decision, consult with your professor. They could give you valuable advice or warn you against some topics. If you are moving in the wrong direction, they will let you know in advance so that you wouldn’t waste your time for no reason.

100 Top Controversial Topics to Write About

There are many classical ways of choosing between topics on debatable issues, but with the evolution of the Internet, things have become much easier. You can search for online lists with suggestions, and they’ll give you the inspiration you need. We prepared this kind of list just below. There are ten popular topic categories there, with ten diverse themes in each. Take whichever you like best!

Controversial Essay Ideas on Education

Here are some traditional controversial argument topics related to education. All students will likely find them relatable!

• Education Gained in the US Has Lost Its Prestige
• The Importance of Doing Homework Diligently Is Overestimated
• Education Has become Redundant Today Because You Can Find a Job Anyway
• Governments & Universities Should Pay Full Tuition For All Their Students
• Physical Punishments for Children and Animals Should Be Made a Crime
• Minors Should Have the Right for Purchasing Condoms
• Children Should Be Taught About Different Kinds of Sexuality From Early Age
• Parents Should Never Supervise Their Children’s Online Actions
• No Student Should Ever Be Expelled From Educational Establishments
• Competitions Among Students Encourage Hurt and Feeling of Inadequacy

Controversial Essay Prompts on Technology

Technological progress has changed our lives to a profound extent. These controversial persuasive essay topics reflect this.

• iPhone Is an Uncomfortable and Highly Overrated Phone
• Cloning Must Be Provided for Acceptable Prices to Grieving Families
• Drones Could Be Used for Turning Wars into Soldier-less Fights
• Wi-Fi Has Many Serious Drawbacks & Should Be Used with Care
• Youth Depend on Technology Too Much & Become Helpless in the Process
• No One Should Be Punished for Saying Anything Online
• GPS Poses Serious Threats to Privacy & Safety
• Most Surveillance Cameras Should Have Better Level of Quality
• Internet Helped Queer Community Meet New People
• Cancer Rates Have Increased Due to Technological Developments

Controversial Topics for Philosophy Essay

Philosophy is a dreamy but also precise science, so you could find some good controversial topics to write about here.

• Some Universal Truths Are Actually Falsehoods
• We Underestimate Philosophy Because We’re Scared of Its Truth
• Existentialism Is Caused By Flawed Social Expectations
• Feminism Has Turned Into a Movement of Violence & Bigotry
• Some Problems Do Not Have Any Resolution
• Not All Mysteries Should Be Solved by Humans
• Every Person Should Be Allowed to Rebel Against Government
• Being Loved Is More Important Than Loving
• Emotions Could Be Hindrance to Having Successful Life
• Animals Do Not Differ From Human Beings In Any Relevant Aspects

Controversial Essays Ideas About Environment

Environment is a sphere that always fuels fierce debates. There is a big number of great controversial arguments topics here.

• Humans Should Be Forbidden to Eat Animals
• Recycling Must Be an Obligatory Part Of Every Person’s Life
• No Country Could Be Allowed to Have Nuclear Weapon
• People Who Actively Work to Protect Environment Should Receive Money For It
• Companies Who Break Environmental Laws Should Be Stopped from Operating
• Current Air Quality in Big Cities Is Unacceptably Bad & This Issue Must Be Resolved
• Alternative Fuels In Their Current State Are Not Effective
• Deserts Should Be Forcefully Turned Green Areas
• Global Warming Is More Dangerous Than We Believe
• Preventing Pollution Under Current Conditions Is Not Realistic

Science, Biology, and Health Topics

When writing controversial topics essay, these days, scientific and medical spheres are definitely among the most popular ones.

• Assisted Suicide Must Be Officially Permitted in All Countries
• Deadliness of COVID Is Overstated
• Food Created With Science Is More Useful Than Natural Food
• Some Illnesses Will Never Be Cured
• People Producing & Selling Alcoholic Beverages Must Be Imprisoned
• Biology Should Be Taught in All Schools From the First Year
• Eugenics Should Not Exist for Perfecting People
• GMO Is Not As Dangerous as We’re Led to Believe
• Fish Can Feel Emotional Attachment to Their Owners
• Science Is Not as Precise as We Think

Religious environment is relevant for many people, so it has plenty of controversial argumentative essay ideas.

• The Fact of Life Existing After Death Could Be Proven Scientifically
• Idea of Humans Evolving From Animals Is Not Sustainable
• Religion Kills More People Than It Saves
• Bible Has Been Written by Multiple Individuals
• People Should Be Allowed to Pray to Whichever God They Believe In
• Religion Is Not Based on Science
• Faith Is the Most Important Part of Life
• Violence Promoted by Religions Should Partly Discredit Them
• Words of Prayers Do Not Matter: Only Feelings Behind Them Do
• Stereotypes About Religions Unleash Violence Among People

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Controversial Essays Topics for Law and Politics

Controversial writing topics about justice and politics never end, considering how passionate everyone feels about them. Everyone wants the best for their country, so why not explore ways of achieving this in an essay?

• Death Penalty In Its Present Form Is Useless
• Death Penalty Is a Useful Method of Fight Against Human Monsters
• Multiculturalism Fuels Tolerance in the Society
• American Women Have Equal Opportunities with Men
• Electronic Voting Is Ineffective: Too Much Cheating
• Gun Control Is Not as Relevant as It Is Presented
• Free Journalism No Longer Exists
• Racist Allegations Are Often Exaggerated
• Hate Crimes Should Automatically Receive Death Penalty
• Presidents Who Allow Wars to Break Out Must Be Removed from Power

Current Events

The world is constantly undergoing changes, so unique controversial essay topics about it are in perpetual supply.

• Amount of Taxes People Pay Does Not Correspond to Benefits They Get
• Concept of Fashion Is Invented Solely by People
• Trump Should Have Never Been a President in US
• Trump Brought Positive Changes to Some Parts of the World
• World Has Become Too Demanding & Unfair to Still Live in It
• Mental Health Therapy Should Receive Additional Funding Due to COVID Impacts
• Quarantine Measures Should Be the Same in All Parts of the World
• People Should Be More Caring In These Difficult Times
• Food Should Be Made Free During COVID
• Rich & Poor People Should Be Treated in Equal Conditions

Prompts on Entertainment

How about some fun and easy controversial topics about things that work as distractions from everyday worries?

• Violent Games Do Not Affect People Playing Them Negatively
• Modern Ads Could Be a Form of Art
• Fiction Is the Best Way to Distract Yourself From Troubles
• Media Should Be Regulated More Strictly
• Having Fun Is Essential for Mental Health
• Modern Entertainments Are Dangerous & Should Be Modified
• Nobody Falls In Love at the First Sight
• Entertainment Is Not to Blame For People Becoming Addicted
• Reality Shows Create Impossible Expectations
• Home Alone Is Still an Excellent Movie

Controversial Essay Ideas For College Students

College essays are more complex than those in high school, but they are also easier than those at universities. If you are a college student, take a look at these good controversial essay topics.

• Teenagers Should Be Allowed to Work Whenever They Want
• Teens Should Not Be the Ones Paying for Their Education
• College Students Do Not Need Cars Because They Are Not Prepared to Drive Them
• Internet Addiction Is a Myth in Most Cases
• Students Should Not Expect That They Will Find Love in College
• Gender Expectations Among Students Are Not Equal
• Serving the Military Is Romanticized to a Dangerous Degree
• Sororities and Fraternities Must Be Forbidden in the US
• Polygamy Is Vastly Misunderstood in Modern Society
• Love is Portrayed in Harmful Ways in Fiction

Controversial Essay Topic Ideas to Transform Your Writing

As you can see, topics are vital. You should pay extra attention when choosing them because your final success depends on it. Take your time and think carefully. In case nothing comes to your mind right away, try utilizing the tips we offered above. Still, we understand that writing is a tricky process that could be frustratingly difficult. If you have any questions, contact our support team via our website. They’ll be happy to help you with your problems! Whether you’d like us to guide you or write an essay in its entirety, we can do that. Drop a message and tell us what needs to be done. Your unique controversial essay on an original topic will be delivered on time.

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50 Argumentative Essay Topics

Illustration by Catherine Song. ThoughtCo. 

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

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

Choosing a Great Argumentative Essay Topic

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

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

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

Ideas for Argument Essays

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

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

List of 50 Possible Argumentative Essay Topics

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

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

How to Craft a Persuasive Argument

After you've decided on your essay topic, gather evidence to make your argument as strong as possible. Your research could even help shape the position your essay ultimately takes. As you craft your essay, remember to utilize persuasive writing techniques , such as invoking emotional language or citing facts from authoritative figures. 

• 100 Persuasive Essay Topics
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• Complete List of Transition Words
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160 Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Students in 2024

April 3, 2024

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

What is an Argumentative Essay?

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

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

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

Argumentative Essay Format

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

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

How to Write an Effective Argumentative Essay, Step by Step

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

Tips for Revising an Argument Essay

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

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

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

Family argumentative essay topics.

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

Education Argument Essay Topics

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

Government Argumentative Essay Topics

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

Health/Bioethics Argumentative Essay Topics

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

Good Argumentative Essay Topics — Continued

Social media argumentative essay topics.

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

Religion Argument Essay Topics

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

Science Argument Essay Topics

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

Sports Argument Essay Topics

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

Technology Argumentative Essay Topics

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

Business Argument Essay Topics

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

In Conclusion – Argument Essay Topics

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

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

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

Lauren Green

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

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52 Argumentative Essay Ideas that are Actually Interesting

What’s covered:, how to pick a good argumentative essay topic, elements of a strong argumentative essay, argumentative essay idea example topics.

Are you having writer’s block? Coming up with an essay topic can be the hardest part of the process. You have very likely encountered argumentative essay writing in high school and have been asked to write your own. If you’re having trouble finding a topic, we’ve created a list of 52 essay ideas to help jumpstart your brainstorming process! In addition, this post will cover strategies for picking a topic and how to make your argument a strong one. Ultimately, the goal is to convince your reader. 

An argumentative essay tasks the writer with presenting an assertion and bolstering that assertion with proper research. You’ll present the claim’s authenticity. This means that whatever argument you’re making must be empirically true! Writing an argumentative essay without any evidence will leave you stranded without any facts to back up your claim. When choosing your essay topic, begin by thinking about themes that have been researched before. Readers will be more engaged with an argument that is supported by data.

This isn’t to say that your argumentative essay topic has to be as well-known, like “Gravity: Does it Exist?” but it shouldn’t be so obscure that there isn’t ample evidence. Finding a topic with multiple sources confirming its validity will help you support your thesis throughout your essay. If upon review of these articles you begin to doubt their worth due to small sample sizes, biased funding sources, or scientific disintegrity, don’t be afraid to move on to a different topic. Your ultimate goal should be proving to your audience that your argument is true because the data supports it.

The hardest essays to write are the ones that you don’t care about. If you don’t care about your topic, why should someone else? Topics that are more personal to the reader are immediately more thoughtful and meaningful because the author’s passion shines through. If you are free to choose an argumentative essay topic, find a topic where the papers you read and cite are fun to read. It’s much easier to write when the passion is already inside of you!

However, you won’t always have the choice to pick your topic. You may receive an assignment to write an argumentative essay that you feel is boring. There is still value in writing an argumentative essay on a topic that may not be of interest to you. It will push you to study a new topic, and broaden your ability to write on a variety of topics. Getting good at proving a point thoroughly and effectively will help you to both understand different fields more completely and increase your comfort with scientific writing.

Convincing Thesis Statement

It’s important to remember the general essay structure: an introduction paragraph with a thesis statement, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. A strong thesis statement will set your essay up for success. What is it? A succinct, concise, and pithy sentence found in your first paragraph that summarizes your main point. Pour over this statement to ensure that you can set up your reader to understand your essay. You should also restate your thesis throughout your essay to keep your reader focused on your point.

Ample Research

A typical argumentative essay prompt may look like this: “What has been the most important invention of the 21st century? Support your claim with evidence.” This question is open-ended and gives you flexibility. But that also means it requires research to prove your point convincingly. The strongest essays weave scientific quotes and results into your writing. You can use recent articles, primary sources, or news sources. Maybe you even cite your own research. Remember, this process takes time, so be sure you set aside enough time to dive deep into your topic.

Clear Structure

If the reader can’t follow your argument, all your research could be for nothing! Structure is key to persuading your audience. Below are two common argumentative essay structures that you can use to organize your essays.

The Toulmin argument and the Rogerian argument each contain the four sections mentioned above but executes them in different ways. Be sure to familiarize yourself with both essay structures so that your essay is the most effective it can be.

The Toulmin argument has a straightforward presentation. You begin with your assertion, your thesis statement. You then list the evidence that supports your point and why these are valid sources. The bulk of your essay should be explaining how your sources support your claim. You then end your essay by acknowledging and discussing the problems or flaws that readers may find in your presentation. Then, you should list the solutions to these and alternative perspectives and prove your argument is stronger.

The Rogerian argument has a more complex structure. You begin with a discussion of what opposing sides do right and the validity of their arguments. This is effective because it allows you to piece apart your opponent’s argument. The next section contains your position on the questions. In this section, it is important to list problems with your opponent’s argument that your argument fixes. This way, your position feels much stronger. Your essay ends with suggesting a possible compromise between the two sides. A combination of the two sides could be the most effective solution.

• Is the death penalty effective?
• Is our election process fair?
• Is the electoral college outdated?
• Should we have lower taxes?
• How many Supreme Court Justices should there be?
• Should there be different term limits for elected officials?
• Should the drinking age be lowered?
• Does religion cause war?
• Should the country legalize marijuana?
• Should the country have tighter gun control laws?
• Should men get paternity leave?
• Should maternity leave be longer?
• Should smoking be banned?
• Should the government have a say in our diet?
• Should birth control be free?
• Should we increase access to condoms for teens?
• Should abortion be legal?
• Do school uniforms help educational attainment?
• Are kids better or worse students than they were ten years ago?
• Should students be allowed to cheat?
• Is school too long?
• Does school start too early?
• Are there benefits to attending a single-sex school?
• Is summer break still relevant?
• Is college too expensive?

Art / Culture

• How can you reform copyright law?
• What was the best decade for music?
• Do video games cause students to be more violent?
• Should content online be more harshly regulated?
• Should graffiti be considered art or vandalism?
• Should schools ban books?
• How important is art education?
• Should music be taught in school?
• Are music-sharing services helpful to artists?
• What is the best way to teach science in a religious school?
• Should fracking be legal?
• Should parents be allowed to modify their unborn children?
• Should vaccinations be required for attending school?
• Are GMOs helpful or harmful?
• Are we too dependent on our phones?
• Should everyone have internet access?
• Should internet access be free?
• Should the police force be required to wear body cams?
• Should social media companies be allowed to collect data from their users?
• How has the internet impacted human society?
• Should self-driving cars be allowed on the streets?
• Should athletes be held to high moral standards?
• Are professional athletes paid too much?
• Should the U.S. have more professional sports teams?
• Should sports be separated by gender?
• Should college athletes be paid?
• What are the best ways to increase safety in sports?

Where to Get More Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

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 argumentative essay ideas, and she can also help with the rest of your homework, from math to languages.

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50 Great Argumentative Essay Topics for Any Assignment

General Education

At some point, you’re going to be asked to write an argumentative essay. An argumentative essay is exactly what it sounds like—an essay in which you’ll be making an argument, using examples and research to back up your point.

But not all argumentative essay topics are created equal. Not only do you have to structure your essay right to have a good impact on the reader, but even your choice of subject can impact how readers feel about your work.

In this article, we’ll cover the basics of writing argumentative essays, including what argumentative essays are, how to write a good one, and how to pick a topic that works for you. Then check out a list of argumentative essay ideas to help you get started.

What Is an Argumentative Essay?

An argumentative essay is one that makes an argument through research. These essays take a position and support it through evidence, but, unlike many other kinds of essays, they are interested in expressing a specific argument supported by research and evidence.

A good argumentative essay will be based on established or new research rather than only on your thoughts and feelings. Imagine that you’re trying to get your parents to raise your allowance, and you can offer one of two arguments in your favor:

You should raise my allowance because I want you to.

You should raise my allowance because I’ve been taking on more chores without complaining.

The first argument is based entirely in feelings without any factual backup, whereas the second is based on evidence that can be proven. Your parents are more likely to respond positively to the second argument because it demonstrates that you have done something to earn the increased allowance. Similarly, a well-researched and reasoned argument will show readers that your point has a basis in fact, not just feelings.

The standard five-paragraph essay is common in writing argumentative essays, but it’s not the only way to write one. An argumentative essay is typically written in one of two formats, the Toulmin model or the Rogerian model.

The Toulmin model is the most common, comprised of an introduction with a claim (otherwise known as a thesis), with data to support it. This style of essay will also include rebuttals, helping to strengthen your argument by anticipating counterarguments.

The Rogerian model analyzes two sides of an argument and reaches a conclusion after weighing the strengths and weaknesses of each.

Both essay styles rely on well-reasoned logic and supporting evidence to prove a point, just in two different ways.

The important thing to note about argumentative essays as opposed to other kinds of essays is that they aim to argue a specific point rather than to explain something or to tell a story. While they may have some things in common with analytical essays, the primary difference is in their objective—an argumentative essay aims to convince someone of something, whereas an analytical essay contextualizes a topic with research.

What Makes a Good Argumentative Essay?

To write an effective argumentative essay, you need to know what a good one looks like. In addition to a solid structure, you’ll need an argument, a strong thesis, and solid research.

An Argument

Unlike other forms of essays, you are trying to convince your reader of something. You’re not just teaching them a concept or demonstrating an idea—you’re constructing an argument to change the readers’ thinking.

You’ll need to develop a good argument, which encompasses not just your main point, but also all the pieces that make it up.

Think beyond what you are saying and include how you’re saying it. How will you take an idea and turn it into a complex and well thought out argument that is capable of changing somebody’s mind?

A Strong Thesis

The thesis is the core of your argument. What specific message are you trying to get across? State that message in one sentence, and that will be your thesis.

This is the foundation on which your essay is built, so it needs to be strong and well-reasoned. You need to be able to expand on it with facts and sources, not just feelings.

A good argumentative essay isn’t just based on your individual thoughts, but research. That can be citing sources and other arguments or it can mean direct research in the field, depending on what your argument is and the context in which you are arguing it.

Be prepared to back your thesis up with reporting from scientific journals, newspapers, or other forms of research. Having well-researched sources will help support your argument better than hearsay or assumptions. If you can’t find enough research to back up your point, it’s worth reconsidering your thesis or conducting original research, if possible.

How to Come Up With an Argumentative Essay Topic

Sometimes you may find yourself arguing things you don’t necessarily believe. That’s totally fine—you don’t actually have to wholeheartedly believe in what you’re arguing in order to construct a compelling argument.

However, if you have free choice of topic, it’s a good idea to pick something you feel strongly about. There are two key components to a good argumentative essay: a strong stance, and an assortment of evidence. If you’re interested and feel passionate about the topic you choose, you'll have an easier time finding evidence to support it, but it's the evidence that's most important. 

So, to choose a topic, think about things you feel strongly about, whether positively or negatively. You can make a list of ideas and narrow those down to a handful of things, then expand on those ideas with a few potential points you want to hit on.

For example, say you’re trying to decide whether you should write about how your neighborhood should ban weed killer, that your school’s lunch should be free for all students, or that the school day should be cut by one hour. To decide between these ideas, you can make a list of three to five points for each that cover the different evidence you could use to support each point.

For the weed killer ban, you could say that weed killer has been proven to have adverse impacts on bees, that there are simple, natural alternatives, and that weeds aren’t actually bad to have around. For the free lunch idea, you could suggest that some students have to go hungry because they can’t afford lunch, that funds could be diverted from other places to support free lunch, and that other items, like chips or pizza, could be sold to help make up lost revenue. And for the school day length example, you could argue that teenagers generally don’t get enough sleep, that you have too much homework and not enough time to do it, and that teenagers don’t spend enough time with their families.

You might find as you make these lists that some of them are stronger than others. The more evidence you have and the stronger you feel that that evidence is, the better the topic.  Of course, if you feel that one topic may have more evidence but you’d rather not write about it, it’s okay to pick another topic instead. When you’re making arguments, it can be much easier to find strong points and evidence if you feel passionate about our topic than if you don't.

50 Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

If you’re struggling to come up with topics on your own, read through this list of argumentative essay topics to help get you started!

• Should fracking be legal?
• Should parents be able to modify their unborn children?
• Do GMOs help or harm people?
• Should vaccinations be required for students to attend public school?
• Should world governments get involved in addressing climate change?
• Should Facebook be allowed to collect data from its users?
• Should self-driving cars be legal?
• Is it ethical to replace human workers with automation?
• Should there be laws against using cell phones while driving?
• Has the internet positively or negatively impacted human society?

• Should college athletes be paid for being on sports teams?
• Should coaches and players make the same amount of money?
• Should sports be segregated by gender?
• Should the concept of designated hitters in baseball be abolished?
• Should US sports take soccer more seriously?
• Should religious organizations have to pay taxes?
• Should religious clubs be allowed in schools?
• Should “one nation under God” be in the pledge of allegiance?
• Should religion be taught in schools?
• Should clergy be allowed to marry?
• Should minors be able to purchase birth control without parental consent?
• Should the US switch to single-payer healthcare?
• Should assisted suicide be legal?
• Should dietary supplements and weight loss items like teas be allowed to advertise through influencers?
• Should doctors be allowed to promote medicines?

Government/Politics

• Is the electoral college an effective system for modern America?
• Should Puerto Rico become a state?
• Should voter registration be automatic?
• Should people in prison be allowed to vote?
• Should Supreme Court justices be elected?
• Should sex work be legalized?
• Should Columbus Day be replaced with Indigenous Peoples’ Day?
• Should the death penalty be legal?
• Should animal testing be allowed?
• Should drug possession be decriminalized?

• Should unpaid internships be legal?
• Should minimum wage be increased?
• Should monopolies be allowed?
• Is universal basic income a good idea?
• Should corporations have a higher or lower tax rate?
• Are school uniforms a good idea?
• Should PE affect a student’s grades?
• Should college be free?
• Should Greek life in colleges be abolished?
• Should students be taught comprehensive sex ed?

Arts/Culture

• Should graffiti be considered art or vandalism?
• Should books with objectionable words be banned?
• Should content on YouTube be better regulated?
• Is art education important?
• Should art and music sharing online be allowed?

How to Argue Effectively

A strong argument isn’t just about having a good point. If you can’t support that point well, your argument falls apart.

One of the most important things you can do in writing a strong argumentative essay is organizing well. Your essay should have a distinct beginning, middle, and end, better known as the introduction, body and opposition, and conclusion.

This example follows the Toulmin model—if your essay follows the Rogerian model, the same basic premise is true, but your thesis will instead propose two conflicting viewpoints that will be resolved through evidence in the body, with your conclusion choosing the stronger of the two arguments.

Introduction

Your hook should draw the reader’s interest immediately. Questions are a common way of getting interest, as well as evocative language or a strong statistic

Don’t assume that your audience is already familiar with your topic. Give them some background information, such as a brief history of the issue or some additional context.

Your thesis is the crux of your argument. In an argumentative essay, your thesis should be clearly outlined so that readers know exactly what point you’ll be making. Don’t explain all your evidence in the opening, but do take a strong stance and make it clear what you’ll be discussing.

Your claims are the ideas you’ll use to support your thesis. For example, if you’re writing about how your neighborhood shouldn’t use weed killer, your claim might be that it’s bad for the environment. But you can’t just say that on its own—you need evidence to support it.

Evidence is the backbone of your argument. This can be things you glean from scientific studies, newspaper articles, or your own research. You might cite a study that says that weed killer has an adverse effect on bees, or a newspaper article that discusses how one town eliminated weed killer and saw an increase in water quality. These kinds of hard evidence support your point with demonstrable facts, strengthening your argument.

In your essay, you want to think about how the opposition would respond to your claims and respond to them. Don’t pick the weakest arguments, either— figure out what other people are saying and respond to those arguments with clearly reasoned arguments.

Demonstrating that you not only understand the opposition’s point, but that your argument is strong enough to withstand it, is one of the key pieces to a successful argumentative essay.

Conclusions are a place to clearly restate your original point, because doing so will remind readers exactly what you’re arguing and show them how well you’ve argued that point.

Summarize your main claims by restating them, though you don’t need to bring up the evidence again. This helps remind readers of everything you’ve said throughout the essay.

End by suggesting a picture of a world in which your argument and action are ignored. This increases the impact of your argument and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

A strong argumentative essay is one with good structure and a strong argument , but there are a few other things you can keep in mind to further strengthen your point.

When you’re crafting an argument, it can be easy to get distracted by all the information and complications in your argument. It’s important to stay focused—be clear in your thesis and home in on claims that directly support that thesis.

Be Rational

It’s important that your claims and evidence be based in facts, not just opinion. That’s why it’s important to use reliable sources based in science and reporting—otherwise, it’s easy for people to debunk your arguments.

Don’t rely solely on your feelings about the topic. If you can’t back a claim up with real evidence, it leaves room for counterarguments you may not anticipate. Make sure that you can support everything you say with clear and concrete evidence, and your claims will be a lot stronger!

What’s Next?

No matter what kind of essay you're writing, a strong plan will help you have a bigger impact. This guide to writing a college essay is a great way to get started on your essay organizing journey!

Brushing up on your essay format knowledge to prep for the SAT? Check out this list of SAT essay prompts to help you kickstart your studying!

A bunch of great essay examples can help you aspire to greatness, but bad essays can also be a warning for what not to do. This guide to bad college essays will help you better understand common mistakes to avoid in essay writing!

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Melissa Brinks graduated from the University of Washington in 2014 with a Bachelor's in English with a creative writing emphasis. She has spent several years tutoring K-12 students in many subjects, including in SAT prep, to help them prepare for their college education.

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601 Controversial Questions & Topics for Research, Essays, & Debate

People constantly participate in passionate debates about sensitive and divisive societal issues. Some may utilize memes or social media to discuss hot topics, while others join online forums and blogs. Even though controversial topics are believed to address trivial issues, many may have a tangible impact on the world and global problems.

Below, you’ll find a list of controversial questions and topics for research that can come in handy on days when you lack inspiration!

🔝 Top 10 Controversial Questions in 2024

🤔 most controversial questions — and why.

• 🏫 Topics for High School Students
• 🎓 Topics for College Students

🔎 Controversial Research Topics

• 📝 Controversial Argumentative Topics

💼 Controversial Business Topics

🏥 controversial medical topics, 🔬 controversial science topics, 💡 controversial philosophical questions, 😛 funny controversial topics, 🗣️ controversial debate topics, 🔗 references.

• Why should brain control techniques in psychology be banned?
• How to stop sexual abuse in the motion picture industry?
• How is homosexuality discriminated against in the 21st century?
• Does drug control help to reduce drug consumption among teenagers?
• What is the role of plastic pollution in global warming?
• How to make domestic violence victims speak out?
• Why are alternatives to prison sentences more effective?
• What is the impact of human overpopulation on food security?
• What is the positive impact of free trade on the international market?
• Why do abusive power and control often take part in modern relationships?

A controversial topic differs from others in that it causes considerable disagreement, debate, and varied emotional reactions in society. It usually involves opposing points of view, beliefs, or interests.

Below, we’ve listed several most controversial questions and explained what makes them such.

❔ Should abortion be legalized around the world?

Abortion is controversial due to its ethical, moral, and legal consequences. It raises the question of the fetus’ rights to life and a person’s right to govern their own body.

❔ What are the most effective measures to prevent gun violence?

Gun control is among the most controversial and emotional topics in many nations. Its discussion is mainly centered around two questions:

• Can the limit on people’s right to bear weapons be considered an unfair restriction on liberty?
• Is there a link between gun ownership and crime?

❔ Should capital punishment be canceled?

Opponents of the death sentence point out its inhumanity, irreversibility, and unfairness due to the persistence of racial and economic inequalities. Proponents believe that it is reasonable retribution for specific acts and is effective in deterring crime and protecting society.

❔ To what degree should freedom of speech be protected?

Freedom of speech is controversial because society struggles to define its limits. There is still a need to find a balance between safeguarding the freedom of expression and protecting individuals against the harm caused by speech.

❔ What measures should be taken to stop global warming?

The global warming controversy refers to the public dispute over whether the planet is getting warmer. Also, people argue about the leading causes of climate change, its consequences, and methods to stop it.

🏫 Controversial Topics for High School Students

Investigating controversial topics may help high school students develop critical thinking skills, engage in meaningful dialogues, and expand their awareness of challenging social issues. Below you can find some controversial questions for students!

• Should sports classes in school be mandatory?
• Abortion as a controversy .
• Why can technologies destroy the world?
• The benefits of year-round school.
• Circumcision as a controversial topic in the United States .
• Social networks make people less social.
• Alcohol should be banned under 25.
• Child labor and exploitation controversies .
• Bad parenting is a leading reason for childhood obesity .
• Is it time to decriminalize prostitution ?
• Same-sex marriage as a moral controversy .
• Happiness is more crucial than a career.
• Zoos around the world should be closed.
• The controversy over marijuana legalization .
• Why will cryptocurrencies replace cash?
• The institution of marriage is a relic of the past.
• Genetic engineering and cloning controversy .
• Climate change has already become irreversible.
• Why is playing online games a sport?
• Controversy about global warming: skepticism and reality .
• Alternative medicines are more dangerous than helpful.
• Why is remote studying the future of education?
• Victorian period corset controversy .
• Leisure time is critical for working productivity.
• Is nationalism beneficial or harmful?
• The Barbie doll controversy in a Latinx community .
• The government should permit gay couples to adopt children .
• The positive side of smoking and vaping .
• Why is immigration a controversial topic in the US ?
• Should we outlaw the use of fatal force by police ?

🎓 Controversial Topics for College Students

Controversial topics often reflect current social challenges , allowing college students to contribute to discussions and decisions that influence the world around them. Look at the most interesting controversial debate questions for college that we have prepared for you!

• The crime behind animal testing in the beauty industry.
• Biracial adoption and its controversies .
• Why are many people ignoring cybersecurity ?
• The benefits of expanding stem cell research .
• The gun control controversy in the constitutional context .
• Why should churches and religious institutions pay taxes?
• The issue of media bias and discrimination in the modern world.
• Women in army infantry: controversial issues .
• Non-chemical cleaning products: worth the cost or not?
• Capitalism is an economic system that perpetuates inequality.
• The United States Patriot Act controversies .
• Should the death penalty be abolished in the US?
• The effectiveness of using hacking skills in business.
• Ethical controversies in COVID-19 pandemic regulations .
• Why is being transgender not a gender disorder ?
• The risk of religious discrimination in a multi-cultured society.
• Controversial art and censorship .
• Does a smoking ban reduce lung cancer rates?
• The influence of mixed-race backgrounds on personal development.
• Minimum wage policy and its impact: controversy .
• The importance of policies and religious accommodations at the workplace.
• How to raise awareness of women’s rights in society?
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder diagnosis controversy .
• Legalization of marijuana for medical usage: for and against.
• What are the potentially harmful effects of consuming genetically modified food ?
• Dementia and its controversial treatment .
• The effects of globalization on national economies and job losses.
• How to reduce the incidence of alcoholism and drug addiction in society?
• The Jamestown massacre controversy .
• The efficiency of drug testing programs in schools .

Controversial research topics inspire discussions and push limits on established beliefs. In the following paragraphs, you can find risky but interesting controversial questions for your future study!

Controversial Topics in Education

• How do cell phones decrease learning productivity?
• The role of textbooks in education .
• The impact of fast food on students’ learning skills.
• Do armed guards reduce crime rates in schools?
• Why does education require political intervention ?
• The negative side of individualized approach in education .
• Advantages and disadvantages of tracking and grouping in classes.
• School sex education and teenage pregnancy in the United States .
• Does a college education lower the unemployment rate ?
• Early childhood education and its influence on success in the future.
• Education: internet courses versus traditional courses .
• Does a low level of IQ affect academic performance?
• The importance of detention in disciplining students.
• Labeling in special education .
• Does homeschooling provide a better education than traditional schooling?

Controversial Psychology Topics

• What factors contribute to the persistence of stereotypes in diverse societies?
• Happiness as a Way of Living and Perceiving Reality .
• The impact of advertising on the human brain and mental health.
• How does yoga affect a person’s mental state?
• Gaming influence on psychology and personality .
• The effect of biological factors on sexual orientation .
• Do violent video games influence real-life aggression?
• Psychology: does a criminal mind exist ?
• Placebo effect and its role in demonstrating the power of the mind.
• Can psychological profiling accurately forecast criminal behavior?
• Psychological testing: beneficial or harmful ?
• The impact of subconscious biases on decision-making.
• Does testimony from witnesses properly represent historical events?
• Experimental psychology: science vs. ideology .
• Do near-death experiences provide evidence of an afterlife?

Controversial Criminal Justice Topics

• Do mandatory minimum sentences lower crime rates?
• Racial bas in criminal justice systems and workplaces .
• The ethical side of capital punishment in the US .
• The role of racial bias in the criminal justice system.
• Recidivism in criminal justice: the prison system of America .
• Do private prisons put profit above inmate welfare?
• The effectiveness of body cameras in maintaining accountability and transparency.
• Ethical dilemmas in the criminal justice system .
• Is the drug war successful in lowering drug abuse?
• The impact of solitary confinement on the occurrence of mental disorders in prisoners.
• Non-inclusiveness of the criminal justice system .
• How to prevent sexual assault in the military ?
• The role of restitution in dealing with prison overcrowding .
• Cyberbullying as a criminal offense in Singapore .
• How does the prison system impact the mental health of prisoners ?

Controversial Political Questions

• Is wealth redistribution a successful way of addressing income inequality?
• Political culture: failure of democracy in Iraq .
• Do restrictive abortion policies decrease the abortion rates among teens?
• What impact do campaign funding regulations have on political corruption ?
• Mexican immigration as a political controversy .
• How do religious factors shape public opinion on LGBTQ+ rights?
• How to regulate the misinformation or propaganda inside the country?
• Abortion in Texas as a political issue .
• How does the accessibility of weapons affect the frequency of mass shootings ?
• What effect does immigration have on crime and public safety in host countries?
• Tolerance and political diversity in the US .
• Why does power concentration negatively affect press freedom?
• How do politicians reconcile private power interests and democratic values?
• Political ecologies of electronic waste: does it really make a difference ?
• What is the role of government in providing affordable healthcare ?

Controversial Environmental Topics

• Does the ban on plastic help to stop climate change?
• Environment: oil drilling in the Arctic National Refuge .
• Nuclear power as the solution for sustainable energy production.
• Can banning fast fashion be beneficial to the environment?
• The controversies of climate change .
• How does noise pollution affect marine life?
• Does recycling cause more trash in the environment?
• Global warming and the free rider problem .
• The benefits of efficient toilets in conserving water.
• The establishment of the carbon tax as a way to reduce carbon footprint.
• Global warming: myth or reality ?
• What threat to the Earth does overpopulation pose?
• The negative consequences of leftover foods in restaurants.
• It’s not my fault: global warming and moral responsibility .
• Would the ban on mining aid in preserving the environment?

📝 Controversial Argumentative Essay Topics

Controversial argumentative essay topics require the student to investigate a problem, examine the evidence, and present a concise viewpoint on an issue. Some of the hottest topics are already waiting for you below!

• Should athletes be checked for steroid usage regularly?
• The controversy between free will and determinism .
• Procrastination has a negative influence on critical thinking.
• Pharmacies should provide teenagers with free contraception.
• Operation Geronimo: controversy and the legal authority .
• Torture can be efficient in solving some crimes.
• Why should computer addiction be treated seriously?
• Should illegal immigrants be made legal citizens ?
• Prenuptial agreements can strengthen families’ relationships.
• Why should media violence be censored?
• Should smoking be illegal ?
• Are social networks helpful, or are they just a waste of time?
• Cyberbullying should have legal consequences.
• Have “three-strikes” laws been effective and should they be continued ?
• Religious courses should be mandatory for everyone.
• Why is modern technology too isolating?
• Should Georgia legalize gambling to raise revenue ?
• Tourist tax is essential to protect cultural heritage .
• All individuals should have the right to possess firearms.
• The Right-to-Die bill: why all states should pass it .
• Do TV shows reinforce harmful stereotypes?
• Values of fashion should not contradict the healthy body image .

Controversial Questions About Art

• Why is the depiction of nudity in art considered vulgar?
• Pornography vs. artistic nude photographs .
• Should obscene artistic expression without “serious artistic value” be censored?
• Why is art not an objective branch of human culture?
• Graffiti as a monumental form of art .
• Can governments stop the trafficking of antiquities?
• What role does criticism play in modern art?
• Art and entertainment: is there any difference ?
• Are museums ready to cope with competition and demands for change?
• Why is visiting a theater good for cultural growth?
• Freedom of expression in artworks .
• Why are new directions in architecture widely criticized?
• Is an artwork’s worth determined by its price?
• Defining art in the past and present .
• Can graffiti be considered a legitimate form of art?

Controversial History Questions

• Is the existence of Atlantis not entirely mythical?
• How has the invention of gunpowder affected the world ?
• Why is it not true that pyramids were built by slaves in Egypt?
• What would be with Germany if Hitler had not happened?
• How did WWI change women’s role in America ?
• What was the leading cause of the American Civil War ?
• Who funded the assassins of Archduke Ferdinand?
• What led up to the assassination of Julius Caesar ?
• Why was slavery unprofitable for enslavers?
• From whom did Charles Darwin get his idea of evolution?
• Jacksonian democracy: who benefitted ?
• Why was Galileo tortured for his beliefs?
• Who actually wrote Shakespeare’s plays?
• Was the Industrial Revolution positive for society ?
• How did European pathogens cause the decline of the Cahokia and Mississippian mounds?

Controversial Opinion Questions

• Why should religion be separated from politics?
• Euthanasia in public opinion and policy-making .
• Do a person’s thoughts and behavior contribute to mental illnesses?
• How can curfews keep teens out of trouble?
• Internet in our life: personal opinion .
• Why are immigrants more of a benefit rather than a problem?
• Are social media platforms accountable for the material they publish?
• Money and expenditures: personal opinion .
• What is the harmful impact of homework ?
• Should LGBT+ problems be discussed during school sex education classes?
• Our opinions on vaccines and what factors influence them .
• Why allowing a child to be overweight is a form of child abuse ?
• How can smartphones damage our IQs?
• Opinions about euthanasia: for and against .
• Why is war never an option for solving international disputes?

Like any other sphere, business has many exciting topics that provoke deep discussion and boost people’s curiosity. Here are some ideas that you can use for your papers!

• The issue of discrimination and harassment at the workplace.
• Business ethics and CSR: when corporate values must be upgraded .
• How does abuse of leadership authority impact employees’ productivity?
• The risks of nepotism and favoritism in big corporations.
• Samsung and child labor: business ethics case .
• How to find the balance between work and personal life?
• The ethical side of corporate espionage.
• Business ethics: Indian tea plantation workers .
• Social media networks should be blocked at work.
• Why are remote workers more productive?
• Business ethics of concealing facts in a report .
• The efficiency of open-space offices in creating fresh business ideas.
• Companies should provide health care to part-time employees.
• Management issues: diversity in the workplace .
• How to avoid ethical issues in the business industry?
• A casual dress code should be mandatory in the office.
• Socialization of people with disabilities in the workplace .
• Will AI replace human jobs soon?
• Minimum wages should be increased around the world.
• Workplace sexual harassment and legal boundaries .
• Stakeholder capitalism as a fundamental violation of fiduciary duty.
• How to deal with a toxic working environment?

Controversial Topics in Business Management

• How to obtain an advantage over competitors ethically?
• Artificial intelligence in strategic business management .
• The importance of workforce diversity in global organizations.
• Participative management approach as a method to empower the workforce.
• Women minorities in business management .
• Why is it vital to implement quality management systems ?
• Employers should make accommodations for employees with mental health issues.
• The marginal productivity of labor in business management .
• All workplace relationships should be banned.
• Time management as a way to boost productivity.
• Moral wayfinding for a business manager .
• Outsourcing as a way of redirecting the company’s resources.
• The effectiveness of banning political discussion in resolving labor conflicts.
• Technological changes in business management .
• Why is focusing on customer service not vital in the business industry?

Controversial Marketing Topics

• Overpromising as a harmful way to gain customers’ trust.
• Marketing: social responsibility and the law .
• Misusing customer data should be punished by the government.
• How does misleading pricing affect the number of sales?
• Is it necessary to develop a marketing plan ?
• The risks and benefits of controversial marketing.
• The impact of colors on the brand and marketing campaigns .
• Advertising to children and social responsibility .
• Why should advertising potentially dangerous products be banned?
• Virtual influencers in marketing and their impact on teenagers.
• Sex in advertising and its harmful effects .
• Recycling content as a way to draw more customers.
• What is the role of social justice issues in ads of popular brands?
• Pharmaceutical advertising is propaganda .
• The role of racial diversity in marketing campaigns.

Controversial medical topics can inspire passionate discussions within healthcare. In the following paragraphs, you can check out the hottest ideas to discuss in the medical field!

Controversial Nursing Topics

• The importance of nurses in end-of-life care .
• Staffing issues in nursing .
• How long should nurses rest between patients?
• The benefits and drawbacks of nurse-physician collaboration .
• Circumcision ethical dilemma and a nurse’s role in it .
• The efficiency of nursing unions in defending nurses’ rights.
• Medical errors and disclosure in pediatric nursing .
• Nurse Robaczynski’s case: crime or mercy killing ?
• Nursing approaches to ophthalmic care for older adults.
• What is the value of informed consent in nursing practice?
• Drug addiction among nurses .
• The worth of nursing leadership in fostering a culture of transparency.
• The role of nurses in addressing medical futility.
• Nurses’ work-life balance and patient safety .
• How to balance patient autonomy and healthcare professional expertise?

Controversial Public Health Topics

• Should medical experiments on humans be legalized?
• Vaccination as a public health policy issue .
• The pros and cons of exercising for pregnant women.
• Social media disinformation as a key cause of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy .
• Abortion from legal and public health perspectives .
• How should the issue of obesity be treated?
• The impact of the coronavirus on a specific vulnerable population.
• Sugary drink tax as a public health policy .
• Did COVID-19 give a boost to telemedicine ?
• The opioid crisis is a public health catastrophe.
• Is bottled water safe for public health ?
• The impact of aging water and sewer infrastructure on health.
• Why are electronic cigarettes more harmful than regular ones?
• Firearm violence as a public health issue .
• Federal privacy laws should protect the privacy of patients.

Controversial Medical Ethics Topics

• Medical students’ involvement in patient care: for or against.
• Patient’s violence and the use of the doctor’s force .
• Is it ethical for healthcare workers to accept gifts from patients?
• The peculiarities of working with surrogate decision-makers.
• Medical ethics: a do-not-resuscitate order .
• How to address disparities in health care professionally?
• The importance of patient privacy and confidentiality.
• Medical ethics: performing an unnecessary test .
• The possible pitfalls of legalization of organ transplantation .
• Euthanasia should be a free choice of a patient.
• Is lying to patients against medical ethics ?
• What is the ethical side of DNR orders ?
• Moral dilemmas concerning physician-assisted suicide .
• Medical ethics: pet euthanasia .
• How should malpractice and negligence in healthcare be punished?

Controversial Questions about Mental Health

• Why is self-help in coping with mental disorders a waste of time?
• What are the dangers of fad diets for mental health ?
• Are mental health issues a result of personality weakness or character flaws?
• Do children experience mental health issues?
• What causes medication administration errors in a mental health hospital ?
• How to prevent a mental health condition?
• What is the role of psychosurgery in treating depression?
• How does ageism affect mental health and addiction ?
• Why do people use self-harm to overcome traumatic experiences?
• Is hearing voices the first symptom of schizophrenia ?
• What are the mental health issues in incarcerated adults ?
• Why is having bipolar disorder considered fancy among teenagers?
• What is the role of practical pharmacotherapy in child psychiatry ?
• How can violence potential be assessed in forensic psychiatric institutions ?
• How can suicidal behavior be unnoticed in society?

Do you need a controversial scientific topic for your term paper or essay? Read on to find the perfect topics on science that you can use in your favor!

• Science should try to revive extinct species.
• Vaccines and autism: does the controversy persist ?
• Will expanding stem cell research be beneficial?
• The role of genes in determining a person’s behavior.
• Controversies related to technology: newborn screening .
• What is the evidence of life on other planets?
• The scientific side of reincarnation .
• Controversies between religion and science .
• Why should alternative medicine be forbidden?
• Genetic variations as the leading cause of alcoholism.
• How is science demarcated from pseudoscience ?
• The efficiency of symptomatic care in the separation of conjoined twins .
• Is it possible to create a virus in the lab?
• Faith and science: did Darwin kill God ?
• The impact of scientific creationism on education.
• Why should the development of neural lace technology be banned?
• Cyber-science: fiction or modern reality ?
• Why should people have the right to refuse vaccinations?
• Should governments invest significant resources in space exploration ?
• The promises and perils of artificial intelligence .
• The ethical aspects of human cloning for medical purposes.
• Why is animal testing necessary?

Controversial Biology Topics

• Drinking a lot of water wipes away the vital nutrients the body needs.
• Is gender a culturally or biologically perscribed role ?
• Why are overweight people more likely to develop chronic diseases ?
• Current generations are responsible for preventing climate change.
• Mind-body problem in psychobiology .
• Charles Darwin’s evolution hypothesis may not be flawless.
• The potential for gene editing to heal genetic diseases .
• Substance abuse: environmental influences and biology .
• Cancer treatment does additional harm to the health.
• The debate in evolutionary biology regarding the validity of the molecular clock. 
• Biotechnology: impact on biological warfare and biodefense .
• What are healthy bacteria that should remain in the body?
• The impact of synthetic biology on the environment.
• Advantages and disadvantages of stem cell research .
• What are the evolutionary origins of homosexuality ?

Controversial Engineering Topics

• The design and construction of weaponry should be banned.
• Engineering professionalism and ethics .
• What is the ethical side of bioengineering?
• The possible consequences of the “conflict mineral” exploitation.
• Loudness war in sound engineering .
• How can AI replace humans in engineering processes?
• The debate between imperial and metric measurements.
• Green engineering: principles, benefits, and constraints .
• Why do environmental engineers play a huge role in mitigating climate change?
• The safety of products and structures is a crucial concern for engineers.
• Human factor engineering problem: carpal tunnel syndrome .
• Manipulation of organisms with the help of genetic engineering .
• Why do males dominate the engineering industry?
• Ethical dilemmas in software engineering: Volkswagen ethical dilemma .
• The efficiency of chemical engineering technologies in diagnosing diseases.

Controversial Chemistry Topics

• How do chemical agendas impact cultural values or religious ideas?
• Government preparedness to chemical and bio terrorism .
• The role of chemistry in the prediction of environmental or health problems.
• Chemical weapons as a primary threat to the world.
• Chemical pollution and loans in business ethics .
• The role of chemical laboratories in increasing drug abuse rates.
• How does desalinated water impact human health?
• Dumping chemical wastes in the lake .
• The negative side of using nuclear energy .
• Why is avoiding pesticides in agriculture vital?
• An unethical decision of the Rongping Chemical Company .
• The use of radiant energy in making food safer.
• What is the potential side effect of fluoridation?
• Chemical impact on the US vulnerable communities .
• The safety of using BPA in food packaging .

Deep, controversial questions can challenge our beliefs and prompt introspection. Check out the most contentious philosophical questions that you can use for your essay or paper below!

• How can we identify good without knowing what evil is?
• What is the problem of evil in relation to philosophy and religion ?
• Do you have control over your destiny, or does everything happen by fate?
• Is happiness the most essential goal in life?
• Philosophy prospectus: why should we be moral ?
• Does life exist somewhere else in the universe?
• Is it immoral to distribute riches inequitably?
• Issues in philosophy: does God exist ?
• Is love simply a physical desire or something more?
• Can a life without friends still be fulfilling?
• Are there limits to what should be questioned ?
• What will happen when the world ends?
• Does religion have an impact on scientific thinking?
• Is euthanasia morally acceptable ?
• How can you know that your perceptions are accurate?
• What is the distinction between being alive and living?
• Is watching football morally acceptable ?
• Is beauty a subjective or objective concept?
• Are we ethically obliged to help others?
• Are rich countries morally obligated to assist poor countries ?
• Is suffering an unavoidable aspect of human life?
• What does an afterlife look like?
• When is the use of military force justified ?

Moral Controversial Topics

• Would you kill one person to save the lives of hundreds?
• What is the moral doctrine of active and passive euthanasia ?
• Why is there no absolute morality in the world?
• Is refusing life-saving medical care morally wrong?
• What is the moral status of an abnormal fetus ?
• Would you lie in the name of love?
• Does putting others before yourself give your life purpose?
• Should athletes be held to a higher moral standard ?
• Would you want to know when you are going to die?
• Would you go against the law to save someone you care about?
• What is the moral status of the human embryo ?
• Would you use a dating service to find a lover?
• Can money buy happiness?
• Is it morally permissible to drive after having one drink ?
• What would you change in the world if you could?

Controversial Religious Topics

• How does religion impact a woman’s right to have an abortion?
• Religion in schools: is there a place for it ?
• What are the negative consequences of blasphemy laws?
• Why should animal sacrifice be banned in every religion?
• What are the consequences of religious freedom in America ?
• Why do autopsy laws conflict with religious objections?
• Is there scientific evidence for God’s existence ?
• Is religion the root of terrorism ?
• Why is gay marriage not supported in many religions?
• Can prayer affect the fate of events?
• What are the religious and moral aspects of slavery ?
• How should the church respond to racial injustice and discrimination ?
• Why can’t Satanism be a valid religion?
• Is Islam a religion that practices just war?
• Do religions cause more conflict than they solve?

Do you know that funny, controversial questions can provide you with a dose of laughter and debate at the same time? Look at the entertaining topics we have prepared for you!

• Why are women often used as inspiration for writing poems?
• Should apartments ban dogs based on breed ?
• How quickly can children become addicted to video games?
• Why is procrastination necessary for achieving goals?
• Should stimulants be prescribed to boost grades ?
• What impact does noise pollution have on human well-being?
• Why should guys avoid wearing skinny jeans?
• Should plant-based dairy be labeled as milk ?
• How to choose a role model for your children?
• Why do people enjoy making things complicated?
• Should schools distribute condoms ?
• Why may clowns frighten both children and adults?
• How to win an argument with the husband?
• Why pitbulls should not be banned .
• What are the most effective ways to survive a zombie apocalypse?
• What is the most useless talent in the world?
• Should spamming be illegal ?
• Why is listening to podcasts instead of music more beneficial?
• The time you enjoy wasting is not wasted time.
• Should people be paid to stay healthy ?
• Only hardworking people can achieve their goals.
• What makes someone a “good person”?

Random Controversial Questions

• What are the leading causes of awkward dates?
• Gender stereotypes: should real men wear pink ?
• What is the importance of mandatory napping hours for adults?
• What is the proper technique for applying toothpaste on a brush?
• Should wolves come back to Colorado ?
• How does laughter influence academic success in elementary school?
• When is it useful to be a good liar?
• Why shouldn’t you have grades in school ?
• Why should pajamas be a part of the work dress code ?
• Why is retail therapy an effective method for boosting happiness?
• Repatriate or keep: should museums return artifacts ?
• What are the possible consequences of falling coconuts for human health?
• Why should wearing socks with sandals be banned?
• Should societies impose monogamy ?
• Why are emojis the superior way of communication?

Controversial Sports Topics

• Why should the use of animals in the sports industry be banned?
• The issue of violence in sports .
• The benefits and drawbacks of social media’s influence on the sports world.
• Why does money play an essential role in professional sports?
• Steroid use and sports .
• Advertising during football matches should be banned.
• Why should sports betting be legalized?
• Transgender women athletes in professional sports .
• The impact of funny nicknames on sports career.
• Gender discrimination is the biggest problem in the sports industry.
• Accessibility of sports facilities for people with disabilities .
• What are the risks and rewards of steroids in sports?
• The role of sport in preventing mental problems.
• Public funding for professional sports facilities .
• Why are all Brazilian athletes good at soccer?

Controversial Music Topics

• Why is rap music considered to promote rape?
• The need for censorship in the music industry .
• Michael Jackson : a musical genius or a mentally ill man?
• The role of classical music in improving learning skills.
• Hip-hop and violence: does this music genre promote crime ?
• The effectiveness of piracy laws in curbing illegal copying of songs.
• What is the secret behind the success of Justin Bieber?
• Tupac’s fake death conspiracy theory .
• The impact of music types on sleep quality .
• Why isn’t auto-tuned music real music?
• Controversies about how to interpret music .
• The importance of lyrics in modern pop songs.
• The relationship between music and lifestyle of a music fan.
• Legalizing free downloads of music and movies .
• Why is talent not important in the music industry in the 21st century?

Controversial Animal Topics

• Why is animal testing never justified?
• Is animal creativity possible ?
• The efficiency of government laws in protecting animals’ rights.
• The ethical drawbacks of horse racing.
• Using animals in medical experiments .
• What should there be the penalty for animal poachers?
• What are the effective ways to prevent animal extinctions?
• Animal welfare: why animals should be treated with kindness and respect .
• Sacrificing an animal for religious reasons: an ethical side.
• What are humans’ responsibilities to animals?
• Captivity in zoos adversely affects animals .
• Using animals for food should be banned.
• The impact of farming on the environment.
• Animal transplantation and commerce in organs .
• Why should keeping exotic animals as pets be illegal?

Social Media Controversial Topics

• The influence of social networks on self-esteem.
• Social media’s influence on the children and teens .
• Social networks as a method to manipulate people.
• The importance of digital connectedness in modern society.
• Transparency of services: social media and the Internet usage .
• How to stop the dissemination of fake news on Twitter?
• Digital friendship: benefits and possible drawbacks.
• Social media for children: threat or opportunity ?
• How does the platform BeReal differ from other social networks?
• The impact of Instagram masks on the perception of one’s appearance.
• Law enforcement: online crimes and social media .
• Why should politicians be banned from social media?
• Social networks as a platform for the emergence of new professions.
• Nursing professionalism in social media .
• Social media destroys creativity in teenagers.

Controversial Relationship Questions

• How does divorce impact a child’s mental health?
• Money issues in romantic and marital relationships .
• Is there a place for monogamy in today’s world?
• Why are mothers expected to prioritize their children’s needs over their own?
• Family relationships and dominant culture .
• Why is it important for a couple to move in together before marriage?
• How does violence in a family affect a child?
• Family relationships and response to health issues .
• Why is a man considered the head of the family?
• Is it good for spouses to have different religious beliefs?
• Domestic violence in same-sex relationships .
• Should couples put their careers above their relationships?
• Why should adoptive parents not hide information about a child’s biological origins?
• Interpersonal qualities for good relationships .
• How does betrayal impact relationships?

Controversial Food Questions

• What are the health risks of genetically modified foods?
• Labeling food with genetically modified organisms .
• Why should pineapple on pizza be banned?
• How does food misinformation in the media impact consumers’ choices?
• Food additives: dangers and health impacts .
• Why is McDonald’s the best fast-food restaurant in the world?
• What is bad about taking photos of food at restaurants?
• Is fast food really harmful and can it be healthy ?
• Why should people not eat meat daily?
• What is the role of a healthy diet in dealing with childhood obesity?
• Food consumption: enjoyment and ethics .
• Can your diet be modified to match your genetic profile?
• Why do people in different countries have opposite views on nutrition?
• Advantages and disadvantages of biotechnology in improving the nutritive value of foods .
• What are the main risks of eating too much sweets?

Looking for controversial questions to debate in the classroom or during the conversation? Check out the list we’ve created especially for you!

• Addicts should receive help rather than punishment.
• Breastfeeding and bottle feeding controversies .
• Why does the beauty industry create unrealistic beauty standards ?
• Is it possible for alternative energy to replace fossil fuels effectively?
• Rationalism and empiricism controversy .
• The possible drawbacks of binge-watching .
• The importance of a parenting class before having a child.
• Holocaust denial and antisemitism ideas .
• Why is war never justified?
• Smoking e-cigarettes should be made illegal.
• Contemporary global controversies: labor standards .
• The single-gender schools are better for teenagers.
• Why should we ban “diet culture”?
• Debate on circumcision: is it unethical and unlawful ?
• Effective ways of solving the problem of ageism in society.
• The drawbacks of patriotism exceed the advantages.
• Mass starvation: is it a real danger for humans ?
• Why is it impossible to achieve world peace ?
• The negative impact of beauty pageants on self-esteem.
• Graffiti: is it art or vandalism ?
• Are pharmaceutical medication prices reasonable?
• Women are better at managing large corporations than men.
• Sport hunting: is it cruel to kill animals for sport ?
• Organ donation should be made compulsory.
• Why is feminism out of date in the 21st century?
• Criminal profiling: is it science ?
• Cryptocurrencies will replace traditional currencies soon.
• Corporate jobs are a new form of slavery.
• Obesity: is it a disease ?
• Why is blockchain technology the future?

❓ Controversial Questions FAQ

What is a controversial topic.

Controversial topics are topics that elicit strong emotions and divide opinions. Dealing with controversial issues may be highly emotional, especially if they involve values, beliefs, and ethical standards. At the same time, such topics help distinguish between fact and opinion and teach respect for other people’s viewpoints.

What Are Some Controversial Questions?

• Is freedom of speech essential in a functional society?
• Should burning the flag be punished?
• Is solar power the energy of the future?
• Should more people become vegetarian?
• Is tourism harmful to the environment?
• Will technology kill the world?

How to Present a Controversial Topic?

• Ensure you have all the necessary information and are well-versed in the subject.
• Avoid unnecessary jargon or technical terminology.
• Consider your target listeners’ age, gender, and ethnicity.
• Establish credibility by sharing accurate facts or relevant stories.
• Present both sides of the argument to be objective.
• Hot Topics and Controversial Issues | Texas State University
• Guidelines for Discussing Difficult or High-Stakes Topics | University of Michigan
• What Do Americans Think About Controversial Topics in Schools? | USC Dornsife
• Topics | Brookings
• Issues and Controversies: Find a Topic | Marquette University
• Political Issues | Pew Research Center
• Issues & Controversies: topics on Crime and Juvenile Justice | A&M University
• Engaging in Discussions about Controversial Issues | Alys Avalos-Rivera
• Business Management Topics | The University of Maine
• Topics: Issues Related to Religion | The First Amendment Encyclopedia
• 5 Major Controversies and Challenges in Engineering | Interesting Engineering
• What Are the Top 10 Public Health Challenges in 2023? | News Medical
• Select a Research Topic: Current Events and Controversial Issues | Southern Adventist University
• 110+ Controversial Debate Topics to Challenge Your Students | We Are Teachers
• Addressing Controversial Issues | Council of Europe
• 100+ Interesting Debate Topics | Owlcation
• Room for Debate | The New York Times
• The 22 Debates That Made Us Rage, Roll Our Eyes, and Change Our Minds In 2022 | The New York Times
• Current Debates | SAGE edge
• Current Debates in Health Care Policy: A Brief Overview | Brookings

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50 Argumentative Essay Topics for Students

4-minute read

• 11th June 2022

The goal of an argumentative essay is to persuade the reader to understand and support your position on an issue by presenting your reasoning along with supporting evidence. It’s important to find the right balance between giving your opinions and presenting established research.

These essays discuss issues around a range of topics, including science, technology, politics, and healthcare. Whether you’re a teacher looking for essay topics for your students or a student tasked with developing an idea of your own, we’ve compiled a list of 50 argumentative essay topics to help you get started!

●  Does texting hinder interpersonal communication skills?

●  Should there be laws against using devices while driving?

●  Do violent video games teach or encourage people to behave violently?

●  Should social media sites be allowed to collect users’ data?

●  Should parents limit how long their children spend in front of screens?

●  Is AI helping or hurting society?

●  Should cyber-bullying carry legal consequences?

●  Should Supreme Court justices be elected?

●  Is war always a political decision?

●  Should people join a political party?

●  Is capitalism ethical?

●  Is the electoral college an effective system?

●  Should prisoners be allowed to vote?

●  Should the death penalty be legal?

●  Are governments around the world doing enough to combat global warming?

●  Is healthcare a fundamental human right?

●  Should vaccinations be mandated for children?

●  Are there any circumstances under which physician-assisted suicides should be legal?

●  Should parents be able to choose specific genetic modifications of their future children?

●  Should abortion be legal?

●  Is it ethical to perform medical experiments on animals?

●  Should patients who lead unhealthy lifestyles be denied organ transplants?

●  Should doctors be able to provide medical care to children against their parents’ wishes?

Mental Healthcare

●  What causes the stigma around mental health?

●  Discuss the link between insufficient access to mental health services and the high suicide rates among veterans.

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●  Should cannabis be used as a treatment for patients with mental disorders?

●  Is there a link between social media use and mental disorders?

●  Discuss the effect of physical activity on mental health.

●  Should sports be segregated by gender?

●  Should male and female athletes be given the same pay and opportunities?

●  Are professional athletes overpaid?

●  Should college athletes be paid?

●  Should sports betting be legal?

●  Should online access to art such as music be free?

●  Should graffiti be considered art or vandalism?

●  Are there any circumstances under which books should be banned?

●  Should schools be required to offer art courses?

●  Is art necessary to society?

●  Should schools require uniforms?

●  Should reciting the Pledge of Allegiance be required in schools?

●  Do standardized tests effectively measure intelligence?

●  Should high school students take a gap year before pursuing higher education?

●  Should higher education be free?

●  Is there too much pressure on high school students to attend college?

●  Are children better off in two-parent households?

●  Should LGBTQ+ partners be allowed to adopt?

●  Should single people be able to adopt children as easily as couples?

●  Is it okay for parents to physically discipline their children?

●  Does helicopter parenting help or hurt children?

●  Should parents monitor their children’s Internet use?

Proofreading & Editing

An argument could also be made for the importance of proofreading your essay ! The reader can focus more on your message when your writing is clear, concise, and error-free, and they won’t question whether you’re knowledgeable on the issues you’re presenting. Once you have a draft ready, you can submit a free trial document to start working with our expert editors!

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Universal 200+ Debate Topics for Any Taste

Updated 17 Sep 2024

Debates are contests of opposing ideas, in which people discuss topics from two opposing sides. Most debates aim at reaching an agreement rather than sending an opposing party into a knockout. Often, this is really challenging task, that’s why debates are frequently compared to sports. Indeed, at times convincing someone who holds an opposing view is like hitting a homerun. To become as good in this intellectual sport as Barry Bonds or Bay Ruth in home runs, you should learn some skills. Just too busy? Let the essay writers be your heroes.

Choosing good debate topics or deciding how to behave are common difficulties students experience while preparing to write my discussion board post . Although you may find it challenging to prepare for this event, as well as participate in them, this is really fun academic activity that makes college experience more memorable. There are some tips on choosing the best controversial debate topics and becoming confident, passionate, unwavering debater. Need somebody to write my thesis for me? Contact us now!

Actual Problem Solving with our list of debate topics!

Choosing Good Debatable Topic is Important

Good topics are prerequisites of interesting and meaningful debates, so students should choose debatable topics responsibly. No matter whether you are participating in high school class dialogue or in college or club discussion, choose topics that are matters of controversy. There are plenty of such topics, as even science suggests, there are several alternative responses to a single phenomenon.

If students have little preparation time, they should pick familiar topics that are neither too difficult nor too easy for their intellectual level. For instance, one should not choose patriotism effect on international relations or censorship justification when looking for middle school debate topics. Political topics may be too challenging for middle school kids. Mandatory school uniforms or fast food at school cafeteria are better debate questions for these students. Need any academic help? Our legal essay writing service is the best on the market. 100% guaranteed satisfaction.

Finally, when choosing topics, consider how excited you feel about them. Interesting topics will result in more passionate and memorable discussions. When topics are appealing enough, students end up participating in impromptu, forgetting about shyness or their fear of public speaking. Making your choice, remember that teens find those topics as particularly interesting that somehow reflect their own experiences. Engaging in debates not only helps in crafting and defending arguments but also significantly enhances public speaking skills, which are crucial for one's future career, especially in professions that value strong communication and critical thinking skills.

In order to pick topics easier, our experts developed list of relevant controversial questions. They are divided into several categories, so you may pick topics that fit your preferences best. However, before proceeding with our list of debate topics, consider finding out how to behave during dialogue and beat your opponents.

Behaving During Debates and Improving Public Speaking Skills

Class along with club debates often follow formal guidelines that are predetermined long before beginning. In a formal debate, your teacher will most likely notify you about rules you will address. Still, here are some recommendations you should follow while speaking:

Maintain correct posture

Use hands and gestures while expressing thoughts. Mind that correct posture and natural gestures make speakers look confident.

Speak loudly and clearly

Clearly presented argumentation suggests that students prepared well for discussion. Don’t use colloquial expressions, keeping your speech formal.

Maintain eye contact

Don’t look at your teacher or somewhere into distance all the time. Instead, maintain eye contact with opponents. After all, debates are conversations. Also, this is another sign of confidence that students use effectively during discussion.

Don’t get nervous, even if you’ve forgotten something. Restate your main argument and start again.

Concentrate on your idea

A statement, a dominant idea, is at the heart of every dialogue. Concentrate on your statement, don’t switch to ideas that make you or your opponents lose tracks of argumentation.

Maintain order

Present your arguments in an orderly fashion, just as you planned during preparations. Either presenting arguments from weaker to stronger or vice versa, use good transitions.

Listen “actively”

When your opponents present their ideas, listen to them and, if it is allowed, write down their major arguments. This will enable you to elaborate strong refutation. Active listening also suggests patience and respect to someone else’s turn to speak.

Avoid yelling, particularly for silencing opponents. Remember that debates are about others switch their view, which demands one to be respectful towards others. Mastering these public speaking skills and correct debate behavior can significantly enhance your future career prospects, especially in fields that value strong communication and critical thinking skills, such as law.

Read also: 100 Evaluative Essay Topics + Bonus Tips for Choosing the Best One

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Preparation Stage Before Debates

If you have time, use it wisely and develop your research skills by researching your debate topics. Do what you usually do when writing research papers. You should develop your major claim (a thesis statement) and supporting arguments with relevant evidence. Also, students should think about possible counter arguments and refutation to them. Ensure to cite your sources properly. Otherwise, your opponents will have opportunities for questioning data credibility. Develop strong introduction and conclusion and prepare a presentation you may use during discussion.

Writing an outline which contains, introduction, thesis statement, arguments, counter-arguments, refutations, and a conclusion may be very helpful in this respect. When you are done, ask friends about reviewing your argumentation and checking whether it is convincing enough. If you still have doubts or if your friends can’t help, EduBirdie writers are always here to assist you. Use website that corrects essays to ensure strongest argumentation and best outcomes. Mind that EduBirdie can either check your essay or write it from scratch: just provide your debate topics and receive everything you need, including outlines, properly researched and cited arguments, and presentations. The skills you develop during this preparation, such as research and argumentation, are invaluable for your future career, especially in fields that value strong communication and critical thinking skills.

Read also: 25 Illustration Essay Topics for Students

List of 120 Debate Topics Divided into Categories

If you have your own idea and need it worded in a laconic manner, feel free to use our title generator for essays . This tool, which is completely free, creates topics using your keywords. Otherwise, use this list of debate topics and pick those items that best fit your requirements.

Debate Topics for High School

High school debate topics are essential for developing critical thinking and public speaking skills among students. Here are some engaging topics for high school debates:

• Should uniforms be mandatory in high schools?
• Is the current grading system effective in measuring student abilities?
• Should high schools implement later start times?
• Is homework beneficial or detrimental to student learning?
• Should high schools offer more vocational and technical education options?
• Is the use of technology in the classroom enhancing learning or distracting students?
• Should high school athletes be drug tested?
• Is community service a necessary requirement for high school graduation?
• Should schools censor books and materials deemed controversial?
• Is the emphasis on competitive sports in high school healthy or harmful?
• Should students have the right to grade their teachers?
• Is a college education valued over skilled trades in society unfairly?
• Should schools implement more policies to prevent bullying?
• Are school lunches healthy enough for students?
• Should students be allowed to use smartphones in class?
• Is the education system too reliant on standardized testing?
• Should schools offer comprehensive sex education?
• Are fine arts as important as STEM subjects in high school curriculum?
• Should schools have the authority to monitor students' social media accounts?
• Is peer pressure more beneficial or harmful in high school?

Topics Related with Education

This subsection lists various education debate topics to consider:

• Is online learning as effective as in-person education?
• Should education be free for everyone?
• Is homeschooling a better alternative to traditional schooling?
• Should the education system focus more on practical life skills?
• Is the cost of college too high?
• Should standardized tests be abolished in the education system?
• Is the current education system preparing students for the real world?
• Should students have a say in the curriculum?
• Are teachers adequately compensated for their work?
• Should foreign language education start in elementary school?
• Is the tenure system in universities beneficial or detrimental to education quality?
• Should schools implement more policies to accommodate students with disabilities?
• Is there a bias in the education system against certain groups of students?
• Should schools place more emphasis on teaching emotional intelligence?
• Is the education system too focused on STEM subjects at the expense of the humanities?
• Should students be taught financial literacy in school?
• Is academic competition among students healthy?
• Should the curriculum be the same for every school in the country?
• Are private schools better than public schools?
• Should schools use AI and machine learning to enhance education?

Social Debate Topics

This subsection lists social issues debate topics that are highly relevant in today's society:

• Universal Basic Income: Solution to Poverty or Disincentive to Work?
• The Impact of Social Media on Teen Mental Health
• Should Voting Be Mandatory in Democracies?
• The Ethics of Genetic Engineering: Enhancing Life or Playing God?
• Gun Control Laws: A Necessity or an Infringement on Rights?
• The Future of Work: Are We Ready for the Automation Revolution?
• Affirmative Action: Promoting Equality or Discriminatory Practice?
• The Death Penalty: Justice Served or Human Rights Violation?
• Privacy in the Digital Age: How Much Surveillance is Too Much?
• The Legalization of Drugs: A Solution to the War on Drugs or a Path to Anarchy?
• Immigration Policies: Open Borders vs. Strict Regulations
• The Role of NATO in Today's World: Necessary Alliance or Outdated Relic?
• LGBTQ+ Rights: Progress and Challenges
• The Gig Economy: Empowering Flexibility or Exploiting Workers?
• Universal Healthcare: Right or Privilege?
• The Influence of Celebrity Culture on Society
• Racial Profiling and Police Brutality: Addressing Systemic Racism
• The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence: Safeguarding Humanity's Future
• The Rise of Populism: Democracy's Savior or Demise?
• Gender Equality in the Workplace: How Far Have We Really Come?

Environment and Environmental Issues

• Climate Change: Immediate Action Needed or Overstated Concern?
• Renewable Energy: Can It Completely Replace Fossil Fuels?
• The Global Water Crisis: Solutions for a Thirsty World
• Deforestation: Economic Development vs. Environmental Preservation
• Plastic Pollution: Banning Single-Use Plastics
• The Impact of Fast Fashion on the Environment
• Geoengineering: Innovative Solution or Dangerous Experiment?
• Urban Sprawl: Balancing City Growth and Environmental Conservation
• The Future of Electric Vehicles: Will They Replace Gasoline-Powered Cars?
• Nuclear Energy: Clean Power or Environmental Hazard?
• The Role of Agriculture in Climate Change
• Ocean Acidification: The Silent Killer of Marine Life
• Air Pollution: The Health Crisis of Our Time
• Sustainable Tourism: Preserving Nature While Welcoming Visitors
• The Loss of Biodiversity: Consequences for Humanity
• Eco-Friendly Packaging: The End of Wasteful Practices?
• The Ethics of Animal Testing: Necessary Research or Cruel Practice?
• Carbon Tax: Effective Climate Action or Economic Burden?
• Green Buildings: The Future of Sustainable Architecture
• The Impact of Technology on Environmental Conservation

These environmental debate topics cover a wide range of issues, from climate change to sustainable tourism.

Political Debate Topics

Political debate topics are essential for understanding various perspectives on governance and societal issues. Here are some key political debate topics:

• Should voting be mandatory for all eligible citizens?
• Is the electoral college an outdated system?
• Should there be term limits for members of Congress?
• Is political correctness beneficial or harmful to society?
• Should the government regulate social media platforms?
• Is universal healthcare a right or a privilege?
• Should the death penalty be abolished?
• Is nationalism a positive or negative political force?
• Should governments prioritize climate change policies?
• Is the current tax system fair?
• Should campaign finance in elections be reformed?
• Is democracy the best form of government?
• Should the government provide free college education?
• Is immigration beneficial to the economy?
• Should there be stricter gun control laws?
• Is the war on drugs effective?
• Should the minimum wage be increased?
• Is privacy more important than security?
• Should countries adopt isolationist policies?
• Is affirmative action still necessary?

Debate Topics Related to Parenting

This subsection lists various parenting debate topics that are relevant and thought-provoking.

• Should parents monitor their children's internet use?
• Is homeschooling better than traditional schooling?
• Should parents use technology to track their children?
• Is it ethical to genetically modify embryos?
• Should parents be held responsible for their children's crimes?
• Is spanking an acceptable form of discipline?
• Should children have scheduled or free play?
• Is co-sleeping with children beneficial or harmful?
• Should parents push their children to excel academically and in extracurricular activities?
• Is it better to be a working or stay-at-home parent?
• Should parents allow teenagers to have plastic surgery?
• Is it important for children to have chores?
• Should parents decide their child's religion?
• Is screen time harmful to children's development?
• Should parents be friends with their children?
• Is it ethical for parents to use surveillance apps on their children's phones?
• Should children be given sex education at home or in schools?
• Is it better for children to grow up in the city or countryside?
• Should parents enforce a vegan or vegetarian diet on their children?
• Is it important for children to learn a second language at an early age?

Technology Topics

This subsection lists various technology debate topics that are relevant in today's society:

• Is artificial intelligence a threat to humanity?
• Should there be regulations on the development of AI?
• Is technology making us more alone?
• Should social media platforms censor fake news?
• Is the rise of digital currencies good for the global economy?
• Should technology be used to enhance human abilities?
• Is privacy possible in the digital age?
• Should governments have access to encryption keys?
• Is net neutrality necessary?
• Are self-driving cars safe?
• Is technology in the classroom enhancing education?
• Should people be allowed to use technology to create designer babies?
• Is the digital divide widening inequality?
• Should companies be allowed to patent genes?
• Is the gig economy exploiting workers?
• Should there be a tax on robots?
• Is virtual reality the future of entertainment?
• Are video games harmful?
• Should the internet be considered a basic human right?
• Is the reliance on technology diminishing human creativity?

Healthcare Topics

Here are some compelling healthcare debate topics:

• Should healthcare be considered a fundamental human right?
• The ethics of euthanasia and assisted suicide: Should they be legalized?
• The impact of social media on mental health.
• Vaccinations: Should they be mandatory for public health?
• The effectiveness of alternative medicine: A legitimate treatment or not?
• Should governments regulate junk food to combat obesity?
• The future of telemedicine: Will it replace traditional doctor visits?
• Mental health care access: Is it sufficient?
• The role of Big Pharma in healthcare: Savior or exploiter?
• Should genetic testing be used to design 'perfect' babies?
• The impact of climate change on global health.
• Universal healthcare: Pros and cons.
• The opioid crisis: Who is to blame?
• Should animal testing be banned in medical research?
• The rise of antibiotic resistance: A looming global crisis?
• Healthcare costs: How can they be reduced without compromising quality?
• The ethics of organ donation: Should it be 'opt-out' rather than 'opt-in'?
• The impact of aging populations on healthcare systems.
• Mental health vs. physical health: Is there equality in treatment?
• The role of AI in healthcare: A boon or a bane?

Debate Topics Related to Leisure

Leisure debate topics are a great way to engage in meaningful discussions about various aspects of our daily lives. Here are some thought-provoking leisure debate topics:

• The impact of video games on youth: Harmful or beneficial?
• Should performance-enhancing drugs be allowed in professional sports?
• The commercialization of holidays: Has it gone too far?
• Social media: Enhancing or detracting from real-life experiences?
• The future of books: Print vs. digital.
• Is travel becoming too commodified?
• The role of leisure activities in education.
• Should governments fund the arts?
• The ethics of zoos and aquariums: Conservation or cruelty?
• The rise of eSports: Legitimate sport or not?
• The impact of music streaming services on artists and the industry.
• The decline of traditional TV and the rise of streaming services.
• The role of hobbies in personal development.
• The importance of physical education in schools.
• The impact of leisure activities on mental health.
• Should extreme sports be banned due to the risks?
• The influence of celebrities on lifestyle choices.
• The gentrification of urban areas and its impact on local culture and leisure.
• The role of leisure in promoting social cohesion.
• The impact of tourism on preserving or destroying natural habitats.

Debating on Financial and Policy Matters

Financial debate topics cover a wide range of issues that impact both policy and the economy. Here are some key topics to consider:

• Should the minimum wage be a living wage?
• The future of cryptocurrency: Revolution or bubble?
• Universal Basic Income: Solution to automation job loss or disincentive to work?
• The impact of tariffs and trade wars on the global economy.
• Should there be a cap on CEO salaries?
• The role of government in regulating the gig economy.
• Taxation of the wealthy: Fair share or stifling success?
• The effectiveness of economic sanctions as a foreign policy tool.
• The impact of student loans on the economy.
• Should financial literacy be taught in schools?
• The role of the IMF and World Bank: Helpers or exploiters?
• The future of work: How will automation change the economy?
• The ethics of offshore banking and tax havens.
• The gender pay gap: Causes and solutions.
• Climate change: Economic burden or opportunity for innovation?
• The impact of Brexit on the UK and EU economies.
• Should corporations be allowed to donate to political campaigns?
• The role of cryptocurrency in the future of finance.
• The housing market: Bubble, crisis, and regulation.
• The economic impact of immigration.

Debating on Historical Matters

Historical debate topics are a fascinating way to explore significant events and their impacts on the world. Here are some compelling questions to consider:

• Was the use of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki justified?
• Did the Treaty of Versailles contribute to the start of World War II?
• Was the fall of the Roman Empire more due to internal or external factors?
• How did the Renaissance change the world?
• Was the American Revolution inevitable?
• Did the industrial revolution improve life or worsen it?
• Was the colonization of Africa justified?
• Did the Great Wall of China serve its intended purpose?
• Was the French Revolution successful in achieving its goals?
• How did the Silk Road influence the cultures it connected?
• Was Cleopatra a successful ruler of Egypt?
• Did the Vikings contribute more to exploration or raiding?
• Was the Magna Carta the beginning of democracy?
• How did the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand directly lead to World War I?
• Was the Spanish Inquisition justified?
• Did the Crusades have a positive or negative impact on history?
• Was the discovery of the New World more destructive or beneficial?
• Did the art of war change significantly with the introduction of gunpowder?
• Was the partition of India in 1947 necessary?
• How did the Berlin Wall symbolize the Cold War?

Controversial Topics for Fun Debates

This subsection lists controversial and fun debate topics:

• Should pineapple be allowed on pizza?
• Are cats better pets than dogs?
• Is it better to live in the city or the countryside?
• Should time travel be used if it were possible?
• Is reality TV good or bad for society?
• Should schools start later in the day?
• Is it ethical to keep animals in zoos?
• Should everyone learn to play a musical instrument?
• Is online gaming a waste of time?
• Should homework be banned?
• Is it better to be an early bird or a night owl?
• Can money buy happiness?
• Should all public transport be free?
• Is it better to read a book or watch the movie adaptation?
• Should superheroes be considered role models?
• Is it ethical to clone extinct animals?
• Should we colonize Mars?
• Is social media making us more or less social?
• Should coffee be considered a health drink?
• Is it better to travel alone or in a group?

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Participation in any discussion is fun, as well as stressful activity. Students’ experiences significantly depend on their choices: Which debate topics should they discuss? How should they prepare for them? How should they behave during debates? How strong are their arguments with respect to those of competitors? Aiming at helping students prepare for their debates, we tried to share our experience while responding to these questions. We prepared controversial debate topics, but there are extra benefits you may gain upon asking EduBirdie writers for assistance. There is no need to spend time brainstorming and evaluating arguments. Instead, place an order and receive ready-made argumentation prepared by professional writer of your choice.

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166 Argumentative Essay Topics

Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class.

Writing an argumentative essay is hard enough. But picking a good topic can sometimes get you stuck before you’ve even started.

Although it seems like a small part of the essay writing process, your topic idea can actually make or break your paper. Suppose the issue you’ve settled on doesn’t carry enough potential to be researched and explored from different sides. In that case, you may end up wasting a lot of time on unproductive work before you finally give up and try to find a better subject.

That’s why we compiled an extensive catalog of argumentative essay topics organized by subject matter that you can use for inspiration. Feel free to browse through all sections or jump to the area you’re looking for.

In this article:

Choosing a Great Argumentative Essay Topic

What makes a good argumentative essay topic, interesting and controversial, immigration, racism, and native american issues, science and research, technology and social media, health, medical, and nursing, psychology and mental health, music, popular culture, and other creative endeavors, funny, easy, and simple.

Before we jump into the lists, let’s go over what you need to look for in an essay topic.

Many students assume that they can pick an issue first and then think about their essay later. But that actually sets you up for potential disappointment. A topic may seem tenable or defensible at first, but once you dig a bit deeper, it may turn out the issue is settled beyond doubt, and there’s no real point in writing about it. It may also be a good idea to sketch out your argumentative essay outline and even draft a thesis statement before making a final decision about what you want to explore.

Here’s a helpful video that explains the importance of preliminary research:

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Another thing to consider is how fascinating the topic is for you . It’s great to engage your audience, but you can’t really be sure if an issue is captivating for your teacher or professor. But you can be entirely sure if it’s interesting to you. And the more you care about the subject you’ve chosen, the more enjoyable it will be for you to put in the work.

It may seem at first that you can write an essay about anything, so why bother thinking too much about the topic? Well, you can write about anything, but not everything you write can fit the requirements of your assignment. An argumentative essay has to fit a specific format and style, and the topic you pick has to conform to those. Here are a few main characteristics of a good argumentative essay topic:

If no one disagrees with the argument you’re trying to make, what’s the point of arguing about it? Trying to convince your audience that texting while driving is dangerous is a waste of time because the assumption is that most people don’t need convincing. That’s why it’s crucial to pick an issue with at least some validity on both sides.

If your topic is not specific enough, you can’t really make a good point one way or the other. Should we do more to protect animals? That depends—are we talking about rhinos or mosquitos? And who should do the protecting—governments or ordinary citizens? Drill down your topic to something you can make a definitive point about.

If you can’t find something to back your argument with, then maybe it’s purely a matter of opinion. Are pancakes better than pizza? Who’s to say? A good topic allows you to make a point based on facts. That said, defending an insupportable position is sometimes good practice for pure critical thinking and works great for impromptu assignments where there is no time for research.

Of course, after you’ve picked a topic, you still have to write the actual essay. Here’s a video to help guide you through the process:

166 Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas (Organized in Sections)

Below you’ll find a number of lists of argumentative essay topics organized in sections by subject matter. They range from sports to history and anything in between. Keep in mind that many of the issues have to do with more than one field of knowledge, so there is some overlap between sections.

You may notice that all of the topics are in the form of a question. We’ve done that to make them neutral towards the issue they touch upon, but for the purposes of an argumentative essay, you might want to convert them to a statement that conveys the claim you’ll support in your paper.

One of the best ways to ensure your audience is engaged in your essay is to choose a topic that’s, to some extent, contentious. Your teacher or professor is unlikely to doze off if the issue at hand is something that everyone has a strong opinion about. Controversy will make your job easier, too—it’s a lot more painless to do research and write when you have a genuine interest in the topic.

But there’s also a pitfall to hot-button topics, especially age-old ones. There’s a chance the arguments you choose have been made a thousand times already. That’s not to say you should never write about euthanasia or abortion. Just pick your ideas carefully and make sure they’re fresh and original to avoid making your audience yawn.

Below are a few controversial argumentative essay topics from across subject matters to give you inspiration:

• Should human cloning be allowed?
• Should abortion be subject to stricter regulation?
• Should there be greater gun control?
• Do video games cause violent behavior?
• Should the death penalty be abolished?
• Is torture justifiable as an interrogation technique?
• Should there be any exceptions to free speech?
• Did the #metoo movement go too far?
• Is capitalism the only effective economic system?

Most topics on this page can work for any academic level in which students are already versed in research and persuasive writing. But in this section, we’ve collected issues specifically related to education and sorted them into the different stages of school. So besides college, here you’ll find topics that can be used by high school and middle school students.

For College

Below is a selection of argumentative essay ideas that have to do with college life. Is college worth it? Is it too expensive? Read on to find similar questions.

• Should everyone go to college?
• Is college education overrated?
• Is college admission overly competitive?
• Are Ivy League colleges worth the cost?
• Has college tuition become too expensive?
• Should family income play a role in determining who gets a scholarship?
• Is a gap year beneficial or a waste of time?
• Are some college majors more valuable than others?
• What are the benefits of an MBA?
• Is an online college degree as good as one from a brick-and-mortar college?

For High School

Here you’ll find a collection of topics related to high school and all of its triumphs and struggles—perfect for students in this age group.

• Should schools be required to have security?
• Is standardized testing helping or hurting students?
• Does high school encourage creativity or conformity?
• Should high school students work during the school year?
• Should high school students be required to take drug tests?
• Should arts education be voluntary in high school?
• Should the senior year be voluntary?
• Is prom overrated?

For Middle School

Middle school is a great time to start developing writing skills and the ability to make a strong argument. Here’s a list of topics on middle school that are bound to be relatable for students of that age.

• Do teachers give middle school students too much homework?
• Should energy drinks be banned for middle schoolers?
• Should vending machines be banned in schools?
• Is school cafeteria food too unhealthy?
• Should middle school be single-sex or co-ed?
• Is distant learning effective for middle school students?
• Should students have a choice on what subjects to study in middle school?
• Should learning a foreign language be required in middle school?

As a bonus, we’re including a special section on bullying—an ongoing problem at all school levels that’s always worth discussing, including in an academic paper.

• Should schools do more to prevent bullying?
• Should parents of bullies be held responsible for their children’s behavior?
• Where is the line between pranks and bullying?
• Do kids bully others because they are mistreated at home?
• Is cyberbullying less harmful than real-life bullying?
• How should cyberbullying be punished?

To make children write an essay, even if it’s just one page, you definitely need to give them a topic they care about. Here are a few ideas:

• Is it ever acceptable to eat dessert before dinner?
• Is it OK for kids to read grown-up books?
• Should kids be allowed to watch grown-up movies?
• Should children get paid when they get good grades?
• Is it better to be a single child or to have siblings?
• Do parents treat their daughters differently than their sons?
• Should parents punish kids if they haven’t done their chores?

Whether you’re looking for a topic for your political science term paper or simply need a strong topic idea for your persuasive writing class, you’ll find something worth exploring in the list below.

• Are US elections representative of the will of the people?
• Should the voting age be lowered?
• Should voting be mandatory?
• Should the Electoral College be abolished?
• Should corporations pay more taxes?
• Should senators and house representatives have term limits?
• Should recycling be mandatory?
• Should prisoners be allowed to vote?
• Should same-sex marriage be allowed?
• Should healthcare be free for everyone?
• Will universal basic income be beneficial for society?

Religious issues often elicit a strong response, but beliefs are not always subject to rational argumentation. Still, such topics often touch on society as a whole and can be great subjects for a paper.

• Should creationism be part of the school curriculum?
• Is religion responsible for war?
• Is science an enemy of religion?
• Should public prayer be banned in schools?
• Should religion be taught in schools?
• Should laws be affected by religion?
• Should churches be required to pay taxes?

History is always up for debate, and there’s plenty of credible sources to explore, so if you need an essay topic for your history class, feel free to pick one from the list below.

As a bonus, we’ve added a couple of specialized subsections on World War 2 and American history.

• Can we ever know the “truth” about historical events?
• Is life better now than it was 100 years ago?
• Have peaceful revolutions ever led to real change?
• What caused the fall of the Roman Empire?
• Was Julius Caesar a tactical genius or a deranged dictator?
• Did European colonialism help or harm the colonized populations?
• Did nuclear weapons help make the world safer or more dangerous?
• Were the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki the only way to end World War 2?
• Should the US have stayed out of World War 2?
• What caused the rise of Nazism in Germany?
• Was Stalin’s rule more harmful than Hitler’s?
• Could World War 2 have been avoided if Hitler had been admitted to art school?

American History

• Who was the greatest US president of all time?
• Could the Civil War have been avoided?
• Was the Declaration of Independence a declaration of war?
• Was the Constitution a proslavery document?
• Should the US founding fathers who owned slaves be revered as much as those who didn’t?
• How did Abraham Lincoln’s assassination affect Reconstruction?

Here we have a group of issues that are often related, but we sometimes wish they weren’t. In any case, they’re an excellent opportunity to practice argumentative writing.

• Should it be mandatory for Americans to speak English fluently?
• Should immigrants who enter the US illegally be granted residency?
• Should children of immigrants who enter the US illegally be entitled to public education?
• Is affirmative action helping or hurting racial equality?
• Should the US government pay reparations for slavery?
• Is the Black Lives Matter movement equivalent to the Civil Rights movement?
• Should Columbus Day be abolished and replaced with Indigenous Peoples’ Day?
• Should Native Americans be compensated for how settlers treated them?

Here you’ll find topics related to various scientific fields that you’re bound to find evidence on to build a solid research paper.

• Should the government fund scientific research?
• Should corporate interests influence scientists?
• Do people have enough trust in science?
• What is the biggest issue facing humanity that scientists should focus on the most?
• Should we spend resources looking for alien life?
• Is space travel worth the cost?
• Do humans cause climate change?
• Is fracking harmful to the environment?
• Are scientific breakthroughs or government regulations a better solution to the environmental crisis?

Many issues around technology and social media are up for debate, so they can serve as an excellent basis for a persuasive essay.

• Is technology helping or hurting society?
• Has the internet caused more harm than good to society?
• Are we becoming too dependent on computers?
• Is technology making us more isolated?
• Is AI dangerous for humanity?
• Are smartphones dangerous?
• Is social media helping us stay connected or making us more lonely?
• Are social media companies responsible for the spread of fake news?
• Does social media contribute to political radicalization?
• Should Facebook be banned from collecting data from users?
• Should people be allowed to stay anonymous online?

In this section, we’ve curated argumentative essay topics related to health and medicine that are worth exploring.

• Should the morning-after pill be sold to underage teens?
• What is the best way to fight the obesity epidemic?
• Are GMOs dangerous?
• Should there be limits on sugary drink sizes?
• Is healthcare a fundamental human right?
• Should assisted suicide be legalized?
• Should doctors be banned from promoting drugs?
• Should medical marijuana be legal?
• Should parents be able to deny medical treatment for their children?
• Are nurses compensated fairly?
• Should nurses be allowed to prescribe drugs?
• Is the nursing profession better suited for women?

If you’re struggling to come up with an argumentative essay topic for your psychology class, feel free to pick one from the list below.

• Does screen time negatively affect children’s psyche?
• Should psychotherapists inform the police if a client admits to breaking the law?
• Do dreams have any meaning?
• Is positive thinking helpful or harmful?
• Can lie detectors ever be trusted?
• Are projective tests such as inkblots reliable?
• Can hypnosis help us remember forgotten events?
• Is prejudice against different people inherent to humans?
• Is anxiety ever helpful?

There’s no shortage of discussions surrounding sports, but they’re often too specialized to be interesting for the layman. Here are a few broad and contentious ones that can lay the grounds for a strong argumentative essay.

• Should athletes be considered role models?
• Should coaches make as much money as players?
• Should athletes face repercussions if they don’t stand for the National Anthem?
• Is football too dangerous?
• Is sports betting different from casino gambling?
• Is cheerleading a real sport?
• Do sports rely too much on computer predictions nowadays?
• Should performance-enhancing drugs be allowed in sports?

Here you’ll find argumentative essay topics related to music, films, and other art forms that shape today’s pop culture.

• Is music getting better or worse over time?
• Is listening to music an effective remedy against stress?
• Are television shows an accurate representation of the American lifestyle?
• Did the golden age of Hollywood pass?
• Should celebrities be considered role models?
• Should any artwork be censored?
• Is art unique to humans, or can it be observed in other animals?

If you care about animals, you might want to write an argumentative paper on a topic related to animal welfare. Here are a few ideas:

• Should animal research be banned?
• Should zoos or aquariums be banned and replaced with wildlife reserves?
• Should fur be banned?
• Should we stop eating animals?
• Should the government try to save endangered species?
• Is hunting for sport justifiable, or should it be banned?
• Do animals have emotions?
• Do pets help kids learn to be caring and empathetic?

Sometimes you just don’t want to deal with complex and serious issues or excessive research. That’s why we curated a collection of light-hearted and easy argumentative essay topics.

• Is complaining helping us deal with stress?
• Is talent more important than hard work or vice versa?
• How much compromise is OK in a relationship?
• Should couples live together before getting married?
• How important is it to keep your home clean and tidy?
• At what age do you become an adult?
• Are parents entitled to knowing everything about their kids?
• How long is it acceptable to stay in a restaurant after finishing your meal?

Looking for a topic for a different type of essay? We’ve compiled a huge catalog in our Essay Topics page. If you want something that carries a stronger emotional charge for your paper, speech, or debate, you can also check out our list of Controversial Topics .

127 Funny Controversial Topics

121 Funny Debate Topics for Your Class

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Argumentative Essay Topics and Ideas

Did you know that according to our argumentative essay writing service , the average person makes about 35,000 decisions every day? With so many fascinating topics out there – from politics to technology – the right one can be a real adventure. 

In this article, we'll explore how to pick argumentative essay topics that get people talking and make your paper stand out.

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Examples of Argumentative Essay Topics

It's crucial to ensure that you choose unique argumentative essay topics. While your school may occasionally offer a selection of subjects, there may be times when you find it difficult to settle on one. You can also try a persuasive essay writing service if your workload is too heavy on all fronts.

Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle Schoolers

• Recycling in communities.
• Outdoor activities for kids.
• Student involvement in policies.
• Year-round schooling.
• Social media and teen mental health.
• Zoos: Entertainment vs. welfare.
• Peer tutoring's academic impact.
• Sports in education.
• School vouchers.
• Technology in classrooms.
• Student choice in classes.
• Financial literacy for kids.
• Homeschooling pros and cons.
• Standardized testing debate.
• Music education's impact.

Argumentative Essay Topics for High School Students

• Social media's impact on relationships.
• Lowering the voting age.
• Legalizing marijuana: Pros and cons.
• Effectiveness of standardized testing.
• Cyberbullying: Causes and effects.
• Free college education debate.
• Importance of financial literacy.
• Technology in education.
• School dress codes: Yes or no?
• Gun control laws debate.
• Drinking age: Lower or raise?
• Climate change awareness.
• Banning animal testing for cosmetics.
• Online learning.
• Ethics of genetic engineering.

Argumentative Essay Topics for College Students

• Social media's impact on college students' mental health.
• Paying college athletes.
• Pros and cons of online learning
• College education: Worth the cost?
• Affirmative action in college admissions.
• Free college tuition: Should it be universal?
• Effects of climate change policies.
• Technology's role in higher education.
• Hate speech and the First Amendment.
• Ethics of genetic engineering and cloning.
• Diversity in the college curriculum.
• Pass/fail grading: Should it be an option?
• Student loan debt's impact on mental health and careers.
• Trigger warnings in college.
• Legalizing recreational substances: For or against?

Controversial Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should euthanasia be legalized?
• The pros and cons of capital punishment.
• Is gun control necessary in modern society?
• Should abortion be legal or illegal?
• The debate over same-sex marriage.
• Are affirmative action policies fair or unfair?
• The ethics of animal testing in scientific research.
• Should prostitution be legalized?
• Is climate change a hoax or a real threat?
• The impact of immigration on society.
• Should the death penalty be abolished?
• The role of religion in government and politics.
• Is genetic engineering ethical?
• The ethics of cloning humans.
• The morality of military intervention in foreign countries.

Funny Argumentative Essay Topics

• Cats vs. dogs: The ultimate debate.
• Flat Earth theory: Myth or reality?
• Pajamas: Fashion statement or fashion faux pas?
• Pineapple pizza: Love it or hate it?
• Procrastination: The art of delay.
• Emojis: The new language.
• Socks: More than just footwear.
• The five-second rule.
• Surviving boring meetings.
• DIY zombie apocalypse survival.
• Alien encounters: Fact or fiction?
• Air guitar: Serious sport or silly hobby?
• Deciphering cat communication.
• The thrill of watching paint dry.
• Laughing at your boss's jokes: A skill or survival tactic?

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Topics for Argumentative Speech

• Importance of voting in a democracy.
• Should college education be free for all?
• Impact of social media on mental health.
• Is climate change a real threat?
• Ethics of animal testing in scientific research.
• Should the legal drinking age be lowered?
• Pros and cons of legalizing marijuana.
• Should school uniforms be mandatory?
• Role of technology in shaping society.
• Need for stricter gun control laws.
• Benefits of renewable energy sources.
• Is online learning as effective as traditional education?
• Effects of fast food on public health.
• Should genetic engineering of humans be allowed?

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Argument Topics on Social Media 

• Should social media regulate hate speech?
• Role of social media in spreading misinformation.
• Is social media addiction real?
• Should employers use social media for hiring?
• Influence of social media on political views.
• Should parents monitor children's social media?
• Ethical implications of influencer marketing.
• Effects of social media on relationships.
• Should social media ban political ads?
• Responsibility of social media companies against cyberbullying.
• Impact of social media on self-esteem.
• Should social media have age restrictions?
• Privacy concerns with social media.
• Role of social media in activism.

Argument Topics on Music

• Impact of music education on academics.
• Should explicit music lyrics be censored?
• Influence of music on emotions.
• Streaming music: Did it help musicians?
• Is music piracy a crime?
• Music's role in cultural identity.
• Should music therapy be mainstream?
• Effects of music on child development.
• Autotune: Boon or bane for music?
• Prioritizing funding for school music programs.
• Ethics of sampling in music.
• Relevance of classical music today.
• Music's role in social movements.
• Age restrictions at music venues.
• Live music vs. recorded experiences: Which is better?

Health Argumentative Essay Topics

• Fast food's impact on health.
• Junk food ban in schools?
• Legalizing marijuana for medicine.
• Universal healthcare: A right?
• Vaccination: preventing diseases.
• Smoking in public: should it be banned?
• Genetics: Testing and editing ethics.
• Mental health vs. physical health?
• Exercise: Vital for health?
• Taxing sugary drinks: Good idea?
• Alternative medicine: Pros and cons.
• Mandatory flu shots for healthcare?
• Technology's mental health impact.
• Organic food: Worth the cost?
• GMOs: Safe for consumption?

Argument Topics on Science and Technology

• Ethics of artificial intelligence.
• Pros and cons of genetic engineering in humans.
• Renewable energy: Benefits and drawbacks.
• Nuclear energy: Sustainable solution?
• Technology's impact on privacy.
• Regulating facial recognition technology.
• Manned missions vs. robotics in space exploration.
• Ethics of CRISPR gene editing.
• Technology and social connection.
• Role of technology in climate change.
• Autonomous vehicles on public roads: Yes or no?
• Social media algorithms and information consumption.
• Regulation of artificial intelligence development.
• Biometric surveillance: Potential dangers.
• Limits on military technology development.

Argument Topics on Sports

• Impact of sports on youth development.
• Should college athletes be paid?
• Technology in sports officiating.
• Benefits of competitive sports for children.
• Performance-enhancing substances in sports.
• Banning violent sports like boxing.
• Ethics of gender segregation in sports.
• Importance of sportsmanship in competition.
• Changing racially insensitive sports team names.
• Hosting major sporting events for cities.
• Legitimacy of esports as sports.
• Sports' impact on mental health.
• Athlete protests during events.
• Salary caps in professional sports.
• Sports' role in promoting social change.

Argument Topics on Government

• Government's role in healthcare.
• Lowering or raising the voting age.
• Is democracy the best system?
• Term limits for politicians.
• Abolishing the Electoral College.
• Influence of lobbying on decisions.
• Government's role in regulating the economy.
• Stricter regulations on campaign finance.
• Universal basic income debate.
• Necessity of government surveillance.
• Ethics of Government Censorship.
• Limits on executive powers.
• Government policies and climate change.
• Government's role in addressing inequality.

Argument Topics on TV, Movies, Video Games

• Impact of violent video games on behavior.
• Should violent media be restricted?
• Influence of celebrity culture.
• Harmfulness of binge-watching.
• Portrayal of gender and race in media.
• Age restrictions on video game content.
• Effects of advertising in children's shows.
• Is piracy damaging to the industry?
• Role of censorship in protecting audiences.
• Regulation of video game loot boxes.
• Social media's impact on entertainment.
• Need for diversity in Hollywood.
• Future of virtual reality in entertainment.
• Streaming services vs. traditional TV.
• Regulating children's screen time.

How to Choose Argumentative Essay Topics

To come up with engaging and thought-provoking argumentative essay topics for students, it’s crucial to choose a strong topic. Here are seven genuine suggestions to help you through the process:

Explore Your Interests

Brainstorm interesting argumentative essay topics that genuinely interest you. A subject you're passionate about will make the research and writing process more enjoyable and engaging.

Consider Controversy

Look for topics for argumentative essay that spark debate or have multiple perspectives. Controversial issues often make for compelling argumentative essays because they allow you to explore different sides of an issue and present your stance.

Assess Current Relevance

Select unique argumentative essay topics that are relevant to current events or ongoing discussions in society. This ensures your essay resonates with readers and contributes to meaningful dialogue on contemporary issues. Also, we recommend learning more about an argumentative essay structure before working on your first draft. 

Narrow Down Broad Topics

Once you've identified a general area of interest, narrow it down to a specific aspect or angle. This will help you focus your research and develop a clear thesis statement for your essay.

Evaluate Feasibility

Consider the availability of credible sources and data for your chosen topic. Ensure that you find enough evidence to support your arguments and counterarguments effectively. Just in case, we have an article with a cause and effect essay structure , so don’t forget to consult it.

Check for Personal Connection

Reflect on your experiences, beliefs, or values that may intersect with potential topics. A topic that is personally significant to you can add depth and authenticity to your arguments.

Seek Feedback

Discuss your topic ideas with peers, instructors, or mentors for their input and perspectives. They can offer valuable insights, suggest alternative angles, or help you refine your topic to make it more persuasive. If you’re in a hurry, you can simply buy argumentative essay and call it a day.

A quality topic should be relevant, timely, and debatable, offering multiple perspectives for examination. Moreover, it should align with the writer's interests and expertise, enabling them to present a well-reasoned and well-supported argument.

Contact us with your ' write a research paper for me ' request, and let us take some pressure off your shoulders!

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What Is the Five-Paragraph Argumentative Essay?

What are good topics for an argumentative essay, what is an argumentative example.

Daniel Parker

is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

• Added infographics.
• Added new topics.
• Added FAQs.
• https://static01.nyt.com/images/blogs/learning/pdf/2015/301_Prompts_for_Argumentative_Writing.pdf
• Oliver, E. (2023, May 18). Good Argumentative Essay Topics. Read Relevant. https://readrelevant.com/good-argumentative-essay-topics/
• 52 Argumentative Essay Ideas that are Actually Interesting. (2021, April 19). CollegeVine Blog. https://blog.collegevine.com/argumentative-essays-ideas

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40+ Most Controversial Argumentative Essay Topics

Table of Contents

Argumentative essay writing.

In a nutshell, argumentative essay writing is about convincing the readers by formulating strong arguments and then providing empirical evidence to back those claims. Like other essay types, argumentative essays follow a rigid structure so that readers find it easy to follow and understand the theme or central idea.

The hallmarks of argumentative essays include an unbiased tone and voice, an objective approach toward the subject matter, and structured information. The same around found in expository essays, but they can have multiple arguments and postulates regarding the thesis statement. Whereas an argumentative essay has only one.

Writers need to carry it throughout the essay by providing both logical explanations as well as references and citations from other publications. 

It has three common types, including research papers, analysis papers, and persuasive essays.

What is A Controversial Argumentative Essay?

Controversy can stem from anywhere. It is defined as prolonged debate or public displeasure over any idea or its manifestation. Throughout history, there were many controversial publications, including essays and dissertations, that charged the public against the writers.

When a writer supports an argument that is against general public perception, the essay becomes controversial because many disagree with its contents. Argumentative essays have the potential to become controversial because they are neither subjective nor speculative. When a writer provides proof and evidence for his “controversial”, it enhances its potency as well as controversy.

Students in schools and colleges enjoy some artistic freedom as they can explore controversial topics. But they have to be careful and highly detail-oriented to ensure quality and acceptance.

Why Controversy And Disagreement Is Important

Many people believe that controversy and disagreement are bad for academia and society as a whole. Since people have opposing views of the same thing, they become hostile to one another. The reality is quite contradictory to these views.

For the advancement of society, controversy and disagreement are important. The established ideas and norms should be challenged, intellectually, to gauge their worth in both academic and practical matters. People come to believe certain things without peeking much under the hood. Argumentative essays with their far reach and strong command of the facts can help readers and writers uncover new truths about the things that have been established for millennia. To do that, controversy and disagreement should be welcomed.

Controversial Argumentative Essay Topics

We have encouraged students to take up controversial ideas and treat them academically to uncover truths. But they could be at odds as to what ideas or things to explore in these areas. We understand this and that’s why we have dedicated this whole section to providing 40+ controversial argumentative essay topics for students.

These topics range from social issues, politics, culture, academics, and more. If students cannot come up with one, they are welcome to pick one as it is or modifies it to meet their criteria.

Controversial Argumentative Essay Ideas On Social Issues

Society was formed before the political and economic institutions. Both social structure and the underlying issues were born when two human beings decided to depend on each other for survival. Argumentative essays cover different social issues and provide clear insight into their causes and effects. For a controversial topic, this list will help students to base their argumentative essay on social issues that are not easy to take and treat because of public outcry.

• Is global warming a myth pedaled by naysayers to scare us off?
• What can be the suitable course of action to decelerate global warming?
• Can governments enforce measures on people to improve the environment?
• Is the death penalty effective in eradicating crimes in society?
• Should it be banned permanently?
• What kind of offenses warrant as severe punishment as the death penalty?
• Do common causes of war stem from our nature as killing machines?
• Can non-combatants justify war?
• Is there a way to outcast war as a solution to social issues?
• Should tobacco products be banned for good?
• Why society will be a better place without tobacco products?
• What will happen to the people who are addicted to tobacco if it is eradicated?
• Is it controversial to employ animals for scientific research?
• Will it be practical to ban animals from scientific research?
• Is it morally acceptable to have coitus before getting married? 

Controversial Argumentative Essay Topics On Politics

Politics is still one of the most unifying and polarizing phenomena in the world. People often flock to one side and contest and detest others, mostly visible during public debates and elections. Controversial political topics can be perfect for students who want to unearth underlying issues and factors behind the force and potency of politics. In that spirit, here are some topic suggestions for argumentative essays that can be controversial.

• What are the deepening effects of the current state of gun laws?
• Should there be a mechanism to provide guns to only eligible people?
• Is globalization a good idea for nation-states?
• What are the effects of globalization on major and regional powers?
• Can we foresee the effects of globalization ten years from now?
• Should abortion get a green light around the world?
• What are the benefits and drawbacks of legalizing abortion?
• Is there a way to de-stigmatize abortion in conservative societies?
• Is torture an acceptable form of interrogation?
• Is torture more effective than other humane methods?
• What are the moral grounds that are against torture?
• The interconnection of religion and politics
• Should the church be more active in politics?
• How can we separate the church and the state in public affairs?
• Is universal peace a dream?

Controversial Argumentative Essay Ideas On Culture

Culture is hard to define but you can tell when you see one. Apart from social issues and politics, culture is another thing that is a hot topic that people explore or refrain from it due to personal reasons. As an academic, you can explore different things about culture including the controversial aspects. The best thing to do is to look at the topics for argumentative essays that we have covered in this section for a quick start.

• Should prostitution be legalized in every country?
• Should the laws be amended to accommodate commercial sex workers?
• Do interracial marriages improve tolerance?
• Should interracial marriages be encouraged?
• Should controlled substances be legalized?
• What is the condition of the black market because of the banning of controlled substances?
• Are people paying too much taxes or too less?
• Should the rich pay more taxes to alleviate the condition of the poor?
• Are school homework and assignment affecting students’ mental welfare?
• Should home assignments be scrapped from the system?
• Are college tuition fees too high?
• What will happen to the job market if the college fee is zero?
• Should human beings be masters of their lives to end them?
• Should euthanasia be legalized to give rights to people?
• What happens to the professionals who are found guilty in euthanasia cases?

Choosing A Controversial Argumentative Essay Topic

It takes guts to make up your mind about writing a controversial argumentative essay. Still, this part is easy. The hardest part is choosing a topic that is controversial but provides true value to the discourse. Students often find it hard to pick and polish a topic for their argumentative essays that can set the direction and scope for the essay. This section is dedicated to helping students to choose and work on the best topics.

Brainstorm Ideas

It all starts with brainstorming. Students need to explore more than one idea in depth before settling on one. Often one idea comes as an epiphany and it seems perfect. But further scrutiny can only determine whether it is worth it to explore or not. That’s why brainstorming can help students to have multiple ideas to explore and test. All of them should be written and dissected properly before settling on one.

Do Research

Research is the key to argumentative essay writing, especially when it is on a controversial topic. Sometimes students do not even know that their essay would create controversy. They have to conduct extensive research and ensure that their arguments and evidence are based on sound foundations. If that is not the case, it will not take much time for the opposition to discredit the essay and the writer.

Develop A Thesis

A thesis is the essence of the argument that a writer is putting forward in the essay. It is a distillation of the thought and the postulates that will make rounds in controversial argumentative essays. Developing a thesis requires the exploration of possibilities and testing assumptions against established norms. It will not be an overstatement to say that an argumentative essay is as good as the thesis it depends on.

Test Validity of The Idea

Before moving forward with an idea, either explored through the body of the essay or done so succinctly through the thesis statement, testing its depth and endurance is a must. To do so, writers should go through multiple credible sources to rally support for the idea. If they can find enough support from established literature, it will help them in explaining and establishing the supremacy of their ideas.

What makes a good argumentative essay topic?

Following are some of the attributes that make a good argumentative essay topic:

• It should have novel elements
• The premise should not be readily accepted by the majority
• It should not reveal everything nor hold everything back
• It should grad readers’ attention and make them read the whole essay

What are some good argumentative essay topics?

Good argumentative essays are thought-provoking and cover the ground that the essay itself cannot. Many instances have proved that they can add much more value to the essay than merely covering space for the heading. Good argumentative essays can be about society, culture, sports, politics, and so on.

What is an argumentative research essay?

An argumentative research essay is a type of argumentative essay in which writers rely on extensive research to base their arguments. They are more like definition essays where they have to reveal certain qualities or characters of the subject through reliable references and citations from already accepted sources.

How do you write a strong argumentative essay?

To write a strong argumentative essay that can garner support for the writer, here are the steps to follow:

• Brainstorm multiple ideas
• Develop a strong thesis
• Test your thesis against logical and evidential information
• Find validation through further scrutiny

How should an argumentative essay start?

An argumentative essay should start with a hook to get readers invested in the essay. It can be a question, a statistic, or a bold or shocking statement. Whatever you do, it needs to connect the dots with the topic and make readers care for the essay.

What is the importance of structure in an argumentative essay?

Since writers want to convince and persuade readers about their side of the argument, structure is a must. It will help the writers to present their arguments in an easy-to-follow manner. Readers will understand it better and decide easily whether they want to endorse that thought or not.

Learning Through Controversy

The controversy should not be considered a bad thing as it helps us to learn more and question the established norms. Argumentative essays can be controversial, especially when writers determine to explore topics and areas that are not welcomed by both academics and people. In this post, we have shared multiple threads on topic suggestions for your argumentative essays that can be controversial to many. We have also shed ample light on how to choose the perfect topic for your essay .

Other things were covered by frequently asked questions.

So, if you are going to write a controversial argumentative essay , this is the resource to start your journey by picking the right topic!

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The Civic Educator

15 Persuasive Essay Topics About Controversial Issues

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

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

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

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

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

List of Persuasive Essay Topics and Writing Prompts

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

Should the Government Ban or Regulate Indecency on Television?

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

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

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

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

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

Should Voters Be Required to Show Identification?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Should Race Be a Factor in Admissions to Universities?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Should the Government Publicly Finance Campaigns?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Should Congress Require Annual Standardized Tests in Schools?

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

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

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

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

Should the United States Grant Asylum to Refugees?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Should the Federal Government Permit or Ban the Death Penalty?

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

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

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

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

Should Hate Speech Be Protected by the First Amendment?

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

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

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

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

Should the Government Send a Manned Mission to Mars?

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

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

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

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

Should the Federal Government Have to Balance the Budget?

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

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

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

Should the Voting Age be Lowered to 16?

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

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

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

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

Other Methods and Resources for Teaching Controversial Issues and Persuasive Essays

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

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

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

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

Which Issue Have You Used From These Persuasive Essay Topics?

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

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

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

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

• Anna H. Smith
• November 27, 2020

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

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Controversial Topics for Essays and Speeches

31 July, 2020

10 minutes read

Author:  Mathieu Johnson

When professors leave the choice of essay or speech topic on you, there's a myriad of options to choose from. It's easy to drown in a sea of subjects to write or talk about, and the list can extend to hundreds and hundreds of issues. However, there's likewise a collection of notorious topics, writing or talking about which can ignite heated arguments and vivid discussions. In this article, we'll share controversial topics for essays and speeches which will hopefully help you with the ultimate decision for your next assignment topic.

How to Find the Best Debate Topics?

You cannot make a sandwich without the necessary ingredients, right? The same goes for provocative essays and speeches: you need to have all the tools and enough confidence to make readers stroked with your piece of writing. But how do you find the best debate topics to spark that interest?

We could say that surfing the Internet space for this purpose is the best solution, but we won’t. Of course, you can pick a random topic from the first site, but the point here is not about the fastest way to find the right controversial topic, but about the quality of your search. Thus, the best way to pick topics for a debate is to understand the audience which you address in the first place and estimate their intellectual level. This is a necessary step that’ll help you know for sure if the target readers will even bear your ideas and statements. Otherwise, people might not understand you or refuse to read your controversial topic whatsoever. The same net effect goes for speeches: listeners will be simply reluctant to hear the words that are too offensive or too provocative for them.

You can also find multiple controversial topics easily by following a couple of easy steps:

• Brainstorm. Don’t search for essay or speech issues panically in a hope to get the best one in a matter of minutes. Think carefully of at least three topics you can potentially use for your debate and list them down.
• Focus on Relevant Issues. Exclude the matters and questions that might be too difficult to reveal or too wide or narrow. Moreover, the topic should by no means be boring – in this case, the interest will be lost as well.
• Make the Ultimate Choice. Once you’ve filtered controversial topics, concentrate on the most appropriate and acceptable one for the audience. Finally, start writing and enjoy the process.

Feel free to buy essay tasks if you’re facing some problems with your essay !

Funny Controversial Topics

Causing sincere laughter is one of the most significant points which your audience will certainly appreciate either on speech or in writing. Because ultimately, everybody enjoys a good laugh. However, you need to be ready to write or speak about those issues that are mildly humorous, not sarcastic or mocking. In two words, you’ll need to come up with something that’ll cheer up the crowd and give them positive energy. Luckily, you don’t have to search for endless lists of funny controversial topics because we’ve gathered them for you. Take a look at the examples below and use them as a guide to your topic selection.

• Is it even okay to have coulrophobia?
• Is reggae music the best genre in the world today?
• How can you use the skills of playing video games to work in a great company?
• When she laughs at your jokes, does it mean she likes you?
• Is there any secret thing which women do that men don’t know about?
• Best Star Wars character
• Men gossip more than women
• What pizza toppings are the best?
• Is it weird if your boss is your best friend?
• What is more real: a pirate or a ninja?
• Who are more likely to achieve success in life: introverts or extroverts?
• Why should homework be banned from the education system for good?
• Does the practice of playing video games increase IQ levels?
• Friends or How I Met Your Mother?
• Why Coke is better than Pepsi
• Should humans eat to live or live to eat?
• Why fish make the ultimate pets
• If Harry Potter magic was real, should it be made legal for all to practice?
• Santa’s elves should be paid minimum wage
• Why cute pets videos are ruining the Internet
• Why the Kardashians family is more popular than the president
• Should juveniles be treated as adults
• Is there life with unicorns after death?
• Is eating ice cream with fries actually a good idea?

List of Controversial Topics for Essays

If you or your professor decide to depart from humor and give readers some real food for thought, consider these argumentative essays topics

• What is the correlation between food, fitness, and weight?
• What are the side effects of different diets?
• Is swimming the best type of sport?
• The most appropriate age for people to vote
• Are electric vehicles the best solution to global pollution?
• Advantages and disadvantages of globalization
• Is gun control an ultimate way to diminish crime levels?
• Violent video games should be prohibited
• Does technology make people feel alone?
• Are people gradually transforming into technological zombies?
• Will people even reach a time when there will be no more technological advancement?
• The impact of communication on social networks for contemporary education
• Is censorship of Internet necessary?
• Parents should not control their children above 16 years old
• What is the division of roles of partners in terms of relationship and family?
• Is online dating effective and reasonable?
• Will people reach the point of marrying their computers soon?
• Is abstract art the most admirable and progressive in history?
• Why is the majority of up-to-date movies deprived of a meaningful plot?
• Should abortion be made illegal?
• Should men get paternity leave from work?
• Should animals be used for research?
• Does boredom lead to trouble?
• Are girls too mean to each other?
• Is college admission too competitive?

Arguable Topics for Research Papers

• Is obesity a problem of the American population?
• Modern diets are not as effective as people expect them to be
• Eight hours is the most optimal duration of sleep for every student
• Sports with high-risk levels should be banned
• Parents should by no means allow their children to watch films with cruel or adult scenes
• Marijuana should be forbidden in the majority of countries
• The US government should implement strict rules to fight with alcoholism
• Energetic drinks consumption can be more dangerous than usual alcohol drinks intake
• Documenting court cases shouldn’t be forbidden in any court
• All people should be given the right to start voting at the age of 25
• The usage of animals in research and for testing should be banned
• Every individual who contributes to the development of environmental pollution should be punished
• Local authorities need to work more on protection after tornadoes
• Indians residing in America are not real representatives of their kind
• Every financial crisis to come will bring worse consequences than previous
• Acceptance rates in colleges and universities should be significantly higher than now
• The official permission of gay marriages displays a high level of development in societies
• What are the means of combating corruption more effectively?
• The current political system is not the most effective ideology for today’s world
• Interactive computer-mediated technologies are not as safe as they were told to be
• The effects of contemporary teaching methods
• How to stop wasting paper and save trees?
• Can the overpopulation issue be managed?
• How tv shows impose fake moral standards?
• Do beauty contests set non-achievable beauty standards?

Current Controversial Issues 2023

• What is your stance on abortion?
• Should local authorities continue to support Planned Parenthood financially?
• Should gay couples have equal adoption rights as those of straight couples?
• Should marital rape be considered and punished as severely as non-marital rape?
• Should “gender identity” complement the list of anti-discrimination laws?
• Should an enterprise be in force for refusing to serve a customer if the request contradicts the owner’s religious beliefs?
• Should the military give women a permission to participate in combat roles?
• Should transgender athletes be given the right to participate in athletic competitions?
• Do you support the death penalty?
• Should businesses allow women to become members of their board of directors?
• Should all states be permitted to show the Confederate flag on government property?
• How should we stop massive shootings from occurring?
• What are the sustainable development programs for the next four years?
• How do we overcome inequality in society and defend human rights?
• What should the relevant education funding in America be?
• How do we rebuild the old energy infrastructure?
• Should we redesign the immigration policy?
• Benefits and negative consequences of developing genetically modified children
• Using Photoshop in the media promotes an unhealthy body image
• The positive effects of dealing with stress through music
• Should Bottled Water Be Banned?
• Is human activity a substantial cause of global climate change?
• Should adults carry a concealed handgun and use it for self-protection?
• What are the solutions to illegal immigration in America?
• Is the implementation of standardized tests bettering the state of education in America?

The next time you’ll write an essay or think of a speech idea, take into account the list of our controversial topics suggestions. These examples can give you a helping hand during the selection of the most burning issue and provide some guidance for the creation of an excellent essay or speech. 

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Home — Essay Types — Controversial Essay

Controversial Essay Examples

Controversial essay topics are those that spark debate and disagreement among people. They often touch on sensitive issues such as politics, religion, ethics, and social issues. Some examples of controversial essay topics include gun control, abortion, capital punishment, LGBTQ+ rights, immigration policies, and climate change. These topics can be difficult to discuss because they often involve deeply held beliefs and strong emotions. However, they are also important because they encourage critical thinking and the exploration of different viewpoints. Writing an essay on a controversial topic requires careful research, thoughtful analysis, and the ability to present a balanced argument. It is important for writers to approach these topics with sensitivity and respect, acknowledging the diverse perspectives that exist. By engaging with controversial essay topics, individuals can broaden their understanding of complex issues and contribute to meaningful discussions within society.

The Importance of Writing Controversial Essays

Writing controversial essays is crucial for fostering critical thinking and promoting open dialogue on contentious subjects. By delving into topics that elicit strong emotions and differing opinions, individuals can challenge their own beliefs, gain a deeper understanding of complex issues, and develop empathy for diverse perspectives. Controversial essays also serve as a platform for advocating social change and sparking meaningful conversations within society. Additionally, they provide an opportunity for individuals to practice respectful and thoughtful discourse, honing their skills in presenting well-researched, balanced arguments. Ultimately, writing controversial essays encourages individuals to engage with challenging topics and contribute to the ongoing discourse on important societal issues.

How to Choose a Good Topic for a Controversial Essay

When it comes to writing a controversial essay, choosing the right topic is crucial. A good controversial essay topic should be thought-provoking, debatable, and relevant to current societal issues. Here are some tips on how to choose a good topic for your controversial essay:

Consider current events: Look at recent news headlines and trending topics to find issues that are sparking debate and discussion. These topics are likely to be controversial and will provide a wealth of material for your essay.

Research different perspectives: Choose a topic that has multiple viewpoints and conflicting opinions. This will allow you to explore the complexities of the issue and present a well-rounded argument in your essay.

Choose a topic you are passionate about: Writing a controversial essay can be emotionally draining, so it's important to choose a topic that you feel strongly about. Your passion for the topic will shine through in your writing and make your essay more compelling.

Consider your audience: Think about who will be reading your essay and choose a topic that will resonate with them. Consider their interests, beliefs, and values when selecting a controversial topic.

By following these tips, you can choose a thought-provoking and relevant topic for your controversial essay that will engage readers and spark meaningful discussion.

Controversial Argumentative Essay Topics

Controversial essay topics spark debate and disagreement, touching on sensitive issues such as politics, religion, ethics, and social issues. Here are some controversial essay topics divided by popular categories.

• The role of government in healthcare
• Electoral college vs popular vote
• Campaign finance reform
• Voter ID laws
• Term limits for politicians

Social Issues

• Police brutality and racial profiling
• Affirmative action in college admissions
• Gender wage gap
• Mandatory vaccination laws
• Homelessness and poverty
• Euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide
• Animal testing for medical research
• Genetic engineering and designer babies
• Cultural appropriation
• Ethical considerations of artificial intelligence
• Freedom of religion vs separation of church and state
• Religious exemptions for vaccines
• LGBTQ+ rights and religious freedom
• Women's rights and religious traditions
• Religious extremism and terrorism

Environment

• Fracking and its impact on the environment
• Keystone XL pipeline
• Endangered species protection vs economic development
• Plastic use and environmental pollution
• Renewable energy vs fossil fuels

By exploring these controversial essay topics, individuals can engage in critical thinking and contribute to meaningful discussions within society.

In summary, controversial essay topics are essential for fostering critical thinking, promoting open dialogue, and advocating for social change. These topics touch on sensitive issues such as politics, religion, ethics, and social issues, and they encourage individuals to explore different viewpoints and develop empathy for diverse perspectives. By engaging with controversial essay topics, individuals can contribute to meaningful discussions within society and broaden their understanding of complex issues. It is important for writers to approach these topics with sensitivity and respect, acknowledging the diverse perspectives that exist. Ultimately, writing controversial essays encourages individuals to engage with challenging topics and contribute to the ongoing discourse on important societal issues.

A controversial essay type is an essay that addresses a topic that is widely debated, disputed or has strong opposing viewpoints. This type of essay requires the writer to present both sides of the argument in a fair and balanced manner, while also providing their own perspective on the issue. Controversial essays often deal with sensitive or contentious subjects such as politics, religion, social issues, ethics, and morality.

📝 Next Article: Process Essay Topics 📚

Writing a controversial essay requires careful consideration, extensive research, and the ability to present multiple viewpoints in a fair and balanced manner. By following the tips below and checking controversial essay examples, students can effectively navigate the complexities of controversial topics and produce compelling and thought-provoking essays.

Writing a Controversial Essay

Writing a controversial essay can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can effectively convey your ideas and engage readers in a thought-provoking discussion. Here are some tips to help you craft a compelling controversial essay:

• Choose a Provocative Topic: Select a topic that is current, relevant, and sparks strong opinions. This will ensure that your essay generates interest and incites discussion.
• Present Both Sides: A controversial essay should explore multiple perspectives on the issue. Presenting both sides of the argument demonstrates a well-rounded understanding of the topic and allows readers to form their own opinions.
• Back Up Your Claims: Support your arguments with credible sources and evidence. This will strengthen your position and lend credibility to your essay.
• Acknowledge Counterarguments: Address opposing viewpoints in your essay and explain why you disagree with them. This demonstrates critical thinking and shows that you have considered all angles of the issue.
• Be Respectful: While controversial essays can be passionate and opinionated, it’s important to maintain a respectful tone. Avoid personal attacks or inflammatory language, and focus on presenting your ideas in a clear and persuasive manner.
• Consider the Audience: Understand who your audience is and tailor your writing to resonate with them. Anticipate their potential objections and address them in your essay.

By following these tips, you can effectively navigate the complexities of writing a controversial essay and make a compelling argument that sparks meaningful discussion.

How to Start a Controversial Essay

Starting a controversial essay effectively involves several key steps to ensure that it engages readers and sets a clear tone for the discussion. Here’s a concise guide on how to begin:

• Choose a Provocative Hook: Start with a statement, question, or anecdote that grabs attention and sets the stage for the controversial topic. This could be a striking statistic, a bold claim, or a rhetorical question that challenges conventional views.
• State Your Topic Clearly: Introduce the subject of the essay directly and succinctly. Ensure that your audience understands exactly what controversial issue you’ll be addressing.
• Present the Relevance: Explain why this topic is important and relevant to your audience. This could be due to its impact on society, its timeliness, or the strong opinions it evokes.
• Outline the Main Arguments: Briefly preview the main points that will support your position in the essay. This helps to orient readers to your perspective and the structure of your argument.
• Thesis Statement: Conclude your introduction with a strong thesis statement that clearly states your position on the issue. This statement should be assertive and clear, encapsulating your central argument in a way that prepares readers for the detailed discussion that will follow.

Structure Creation for a Controversial Essay

When writing a controversial essay, it is important to carefully structure your arguments and evidence in order to effectively convey your perspective on the topic. Here are some key elements to consider when structuring your controversial essay:

• Introduction : Begin by introducing the topic and providing some background information. Clearly state your thesis statement, which should present your stance on the controversial issue.
• Body paragraphs: Each body paragraph should focus on a single aspect of the controversy, presenting evidence and arguments to support your position. It is important to anticipate and address counterarguments in order to strengthen your own argument.
• Evidence : Use reliable sources and evidence to support your claims. This can include statistics, expert opinions, case studies, and historical examples.
• Counterarguments : Acknowledge opposing viewpoints and provide a thoughtful rebuttal to strengthen your own argument.
• Conclusion : Summarize your main points and restate your thesis, emphasizing the significance of your argument and its implications.

By carefully structuring your controversial essay, you can effectively present your viewpoint and engage readers in a thoughtful discussion of the issue at hand.

The Importance of Controversial Essay Examples

Controversial essay examples are essential for understanding how to effectively present and argue a controversial topic. They provide a framework for students to analyze and learn from different perspectives, helping them to develop critical thinking skills and articulate their own opinions.

Controversial essay examples are useful for sparking discussions, challenging assumptions, and encouraging students to engage with complex and contentious issues. By examining how others have presented controversial topics, students can learn how to construct persuasive arguments, anticipate counterarguments, and develop a nuanced understanding of the topic at hand.

📘 Find Out: Quantitative Essay Examples  📝

To use controversial essay examples effectively, students should first select a topic that is controversial and relevant to their interests. They should then research and read various essays on the topic to gain a comprehensive understanding of different viewpoints. Students should analyze the structure, evidence, and language used in the examples to identify effective strategies for presenting a controversial argument. Finally, students should practice writing their own controversial essay, incorporating the lessons learned from the examples they have studied.

In conclusion, controversial essay examples are a valuable resource for students to learn how to effectively engage with controversial topics. By studying and analyzing these examples, students can develop the skills and knowledge necessary to construct persuasive and well-reasoned arguments on contentious issues.

Controversial Essay Writing Checklist

🔘 Clearly define the controversial topic you will be discussing in your essay. 🔘 Research and gather evidence from credible sources to support your argument. 🔘 Address opposing viewpoints and counterarguments to strengthen your position. 🔘 Use logical reasoning and critical thinking to make your points. 🔘 Avoid emotional language and focus on presenting factual information. 🔘 Provide real-life examples and case studies to illustrate your arguments. 🔘 Acknowledge the complexity of the issue and avoid oversimplifying it. 🔘 Present a clear and concise thesis statement that outlines your position. 🔘 Use proper citation and referencing to give credit to the sources you have used. 🔘 Proofread and edit your essay to ensure clarity and coherence.

Writing a controversial essay requires careful research, critical analysis, and the ability to present a well-structured argument. By following this checklist, you can effectively navigate the complexities of controversial topics and present a compelling essay that challenges readers to think critically about the issues at hand.

Conclusion: Controversial Essay Examples

Controversial essay examples are valuable tools for students to learn how to effectively engage with contentious topics. By studying and analyzing these examples, students can develop the skills and knowledge necessary to construct persuasive and well-reasoned arguments on controversial issues. Controversial essay examples provide a framework for students to analyze and learn from different perspectives, helping them to develop critical thinking skills and articulate their own opinions. They are also useful for sparking discussions, challenging assumptions, and encouraging students to engage with complex and contentious issues.

Ultimately, controversial essay examples serve as a guide for students to understand how to effectively present and argue a controversial topic. By incorporating the lessons learned from these examples, students can develop the ability to construct well-structured and compelling essays that challenge readers to think critically about the issues at hand.

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What is a Controversial essay?

A Controversial essay type is a piece of writing that presents a contentious topic and argues for a specific stance on that issue.

How to write a Controversial essay?

To write a Controversial essay, research the topic thoroughly, present both sides of the argument, and clearly articulate your position with evidence and reasoning.

How to structure a Controversial essay?

A Controversial essay should have an introduction with a clear thesis statement, body paragraphs presenting evidence and arguments, and a conclusion summarizing the main points and restating the thesis.

What is the purpose of a Controversial essay?

The purpose of a Controversial essay is to engage readers in critical thinking and debate by presenting a controversial topic and arguing for a specific viewpoint.

How to choose the topic for a Controversial essay?

Choose a topic for a Controversial essay based on its relevance, personal interest, and the availability of credible sources and evidence to support both sides of the argument.

The most popular topics for Controversial Essay

• Medical Marijuana
• Electoral College
• Government Surveillance
• Gun Control
• Freedom of Speech
• Juvenile Justice System
• Same Sex Marriage
• Genetic Engineering
• Vaccination
• Assisted Suicide

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110+ Controversial Debate Topics to Challenge Your Students

Don’t be surprised when the discussion gets heated…

It can be tempting to steer away from controversial debate topics in the classroom. But teaching students to discuss hot topics calmly and rationally is vital. Show them how to think critically about a subject, then use facts to support their point of view. These controversial topics can work well for classroom debates, persuasive essays , or fishbowl discussions .

Note: Each topic includes a link to an article from a reliable source that provides pros and/or cons to help kids make their arguments.

Education Controversial Debate Topics

Science and health controversial debate topics, civics controversial debate topics, social justice controversial debate topics, more controversial debate topics.

• Should students be required to wear school uniforms?
• Should schools eliminate dress codes?

• Are private schools better than public schools?
• Should schools be allowed to teach critical race theory?
• Are standardized tests effective?
• Should schools teach abstinence instead of sexual education?
• Should schools make condoms available to students?
• Is year-round school better for students?
• Should schools ban junk food?
• Are single-gender schools better for students?
• Is it ever OK to cheat on homework or a test?
• Should we make college free for everyone?
• Should we allow schools to ban books from their libraries?
• Does religion have a place in public schools?
• Should charter schools receive public school funds?
• Are school voucher systems a good idea?

• Is in-person school better than online school?
• Should schools have surveillance cameras in classrooms and hallways?
• Should schools install safe rooms in case of mass shootings or natural disasters?
• Should all teachers be armed in the classroom to help protect their students?
• Is it important for schools to provide mental health support to students?
• Should schools allow students to use phones during the school day?
• Is recess important at every grade level?
• Should we put equal value on vocational education and academics?
• Is homeschooling good for children?
• How much emphasis should school put on reading from the “canon” versus reading more contemporary voices?
• Should humans eat animals?
• Is it OK to keep animals in zoos?
• Should we completely ban cigarette smoking and vaping?

• Should we ban plastic bottles and bags?
• Is it worth it to spend money exploring space?
• Should vaccines be mandatory?
• Are GMOs more helpful than harmful?
• Is animal cloning ethical?
• Should human cloning be legal?
• Should we use stem cells from human embryos for scientific research?
• Is it better to provide drug addicts with treatment instead of punishment?
• Should we ban the use of fossil fuels?

• Should assisted suicide be legal?
• Will expanded use of artificial intelligence be good for humanity?
• Should all countries have to give up their nuclear weapons?
• Is universal government-sponsored healthcare a good idea?
• Should we ban testing on animals?
• Should net neutrality be mandatory for internet service providers?
• Is our society too reliant on technology?
• Can we truly do anything about human-caused global warming?
• Are electric vehicles better than gas-powered ones?
• Does our society have a harmful “diet culture”?
• Would taxing unhealthy foods help fight obesity?

• Can alternative energies replace fossil fuels?
• Is nurture more important than nature when raising a child?
• Should we lower the voting age to 16?
• Should we lower the drinking age to 18?
• Is democracy the best form of government?
• Should all Americans be required to vote?
• Should we raise the driving age to 18?

• Is a progressive income tax better than a flat tax?
• Should parents be punished legally for their children’s crimes?
• Should abortion be legal?
• Would it be better to appoint Supreme Court judges for fixed terms?
• Should people have to take a parenting class before having a child?
• Should we legalize marijuana at the federal level?
• Would it be better to legalize, tax, and regulate all drugs (including alcohol) instead of banning them?
• Should the United States implement a universal basic income?
• Should we redirect some or all police force funding to social services?
• Do gun safety laws infringe on the Second Amendment?
• Should we require people of all genders to register for the draft?
• Should anyone over 12 be tried as an adult in court?

• Is it right to require people to take drug tests before receiving government aid like welfare?
• Should we do away with gender-specific public bathrooms?
• Is the local minimum wage truly a living wage?
• Why haven’t we had a female U.S. president yet?
• Should men be allowed to make laws that affect women’s bodies?
• Should the government provide funding for public art programs?
• Are there any reasonable limits to freedom of speech?
• Is security more important than freedom?

• Should we abolish the death penalty?
• Is a strong middle class vital to the economy?
• Should we make the path to American citizenship easier?

• Is the American justice system inherently racist?
• Will stricter gun control laws help stop mass shootings?
• Is it logical to continue building a wall between the United States and Mexico?
• How much of a problem is ageism in our society?
• Should felons be allowed to vote after serving their time in prison?

• Does socioeconomic prejudice affect our society?
• Should we automatically deport illegal immigrants, regardless of how long they’ve been in the country?
• What is the role of media in fighting systemic racism?
• Does segregation still exist in the United States?
• Are white-collar jobs better than blue-collar jobs?
• Does religion do more harm than good?
• Will we ever achieve world peace?
• Should parents use their kids’ cell phones to track where they are?
• Should we let young children play contact sports like football?

• Are the prices of pharmaceutical drugs reasonable?
• Who should cover the medical costs of people without insurance?
• Is video gaming a sport?
• Should parents be allowed to pierce a baby’s ears?
• Should we ban all violent video games?
• Are beauty pageants sexist?
• Should kids get participation trophies for sports?

• Should there be a minimum age for owning a smartphone?
• Is it possible to be an ethical hunter?
• What is the best way to deal with homelessness?
• Was Russia justified in attacking Ukraine?
• Should both parents receive equal amounts of paid leave when they have or adopt a child?
• Are stereotypes ever right?
• Do people have a responsibility to step in when they see a crime in action?
• Are “Stand Your Ground” laws effective?
• Is there any benefit to teaching proper grammar and spelling, or should we allow language to be descriptive instead of prescriptive?
• What gives people true power in the United States?

• Is conflict necessary for change?
• Is war ever justified?

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