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112 Persuasive Speech Topics That Are Actually Engaging

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

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

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

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

Choose Something You’re Passionate About

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

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

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

Steer Clear of Cliches

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

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

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

Have a Clear Side of Opposition

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

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

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

Environment

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

Science & Technology

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

Social Media

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

Parenting & Family

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

Entertainment

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

Arts & Humanities

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

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

Do Your Research

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

Understand Your Audience

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

Have Someone Read Your Speech

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

Practice Makes Perfect

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

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

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150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics for Students in 2024

April 1, 2024

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

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

What is a Good Persuasive Speech?

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

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

Components of a Great Persuasive Speech Topic

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

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

150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Business and Economy

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

Social Media

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

Education – Persuasive Speech Topics 

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

Social Issues – Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Politics and Government

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

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Fun Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics

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

I’ve Chosen My Topic, Now What?

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

How to Create a Successful Persuasive Speech, Step by Step

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

How to Practice and Deliver a Persuasive Speech

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

Good Persuasive Speech Topics—Final Thoughts

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

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

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

Lauren Green

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

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100+ Excellent Topics for a Stellar Persuasive Speech

What Makes a Truly Remarkable Speech?

The Ingredients of an Effective Topic

Ideas & Inspiration: 100+ Topics

Your Next Steps, Step-by-step

This comprehensive blog post serves as a vital resource for anyone looking to craft an impactful persuasive speech. It provides an extensive list of over 100 compelling topics tailored for a wide range of interests and academic fields. Additionally, it offers advanced guidance on selecting the perfect topic, structuring your arguments effectively, and employing persuasive techniques that captivate and convince your audience. Whether you're an academic achiever or an aspiring public speaker, this guide equips you with the insights to deliver a stellar persuasive speech.

Before You Pick the Perfect Topic...

If you’re struggling to find a strong topic for a persuasive speech , you’ll find 100+ ideas for subjects and topics below. Use one that grabs you, or simply find inspiration to get unstuck and come up with a topic about something you and your audience will find interesting.

To help you think about the big picture — your larger essay — we also review what makes a truly effective persuasive speech, all the ingredients of an effective topic, and how to pick the best topic for your circumstances.

Here's what's most essential as you consider your topic choices:

• pick a topic that has the right scope, one aligned with your larger assignment
• be sure the topic is one you're interested in researching, has meaning and relevance for your audience, and has the right level of complexity — both for your audience and for your level of speech writing prowess
• remember your topic should align with themes and subjects related to your circumstances and the speech requirements

Finally, once you’ve picked your topic, and even if you know all the basics — which I’m guessing you do if you’re following posts from Crimson Education — you might still benefit from other advice in today's post, such as numerous speech writing tips and strategies designed to save you time and stress and improve the odds your final speech will exceed expectations.

Here's what you'll find:

• What Makes a Truly Remarkable Persuasive Speech
• The Ingredients of an Effective Topic, and Tips for Picking Your Topic
• 100+ Topic Suggestions
• How to Develop a Stellar Persuasive Speech — Step-by-Step!

Still feeling a bit hesitant or stuck?

Don’t worry. Once you've picked a really interesting and effective topic and start your research, you'll quickly become a subject-matter expert, regaining both motivation and confidence for all the remaining steps.

What Makes a Truly Remarkable Persuasive Speech?

A good persuasive speech will grab the audience’s attention, help them connect with the speaker (that’s you), and guide their reasoning process — giving the speech the power to persuade your audience why your point of view is logical and compelling, and also superior to the opposing viewpoints.

The 6 Most Essential Ingredients

• A strong introduction that gets the audience engaged and provides context about the subject and topic, what’s at stake (why it matters), and what issues or concerns tend to be front and center
• A clear thesis in the form of a specific point of view, opinion, or argument
• An orderly progression of ideas and arguments, each argument or subtopic supported by logic and evidence
• An anticipation of opposing viewpoints and arguments (the counterarguments to your opinion)
• Your responses or ‘rebuttals’ to the opposing viewpoints , answering the anticipated objections and adding additional support for your point of view or thesis
• A conclusion that highlights the most powerful persuasive elements in your speech and reminds listeners what's at stake, including, if suitable, a call to action

The Historical Roots of Persuasive Speech

Did you know that persuasive speech assignments may be testing your mastery of concepts that go back as far as ancient Greece?

The emergence of democracy in ancient Greece (the 6th and 5th centuries B.C.) created a space for the rule of law and political governance informed by the will of the people — making persuasive speech an essential element of social life.

From courtroom trials to political campaigns and democratic assemblies, persuasive speech emerged in 5th-century Athens as an essential tool of democracy.  Soon the brightest philosophers of the day became concerned with the principles of "rhetoric" — the study of orderly and effective persuasive speaking.

Now, thousands of years later, little has changed in Western democracies: "constructing and defending compelling arguments remains an essential skill in many settings" (Harvard U, Rhetoric ). In short, the principles of deliberation, free speech, and consensus building we use for governance, in school, extracurricular activities , at work, and sometimes our day-to-day life, still rely on persuasive speech.

“In every free society individuals are continuously attempting to change the thoughts and/or actions of others. It is a fundamental concept of a free society.”

- persuasive speaking, by r. t. oliver, ph.d..

How The Rhetorical Triangle Can Turbo-charge Your Speech

The 5th-century B.C. Athenian philosopher Aristotle argued that your ability to persuade is based on how well your speech appeals to the audience in three different areas: logos, ethos, and pathos, sometimes referred to as the three points of the rhetorical triangle .

From observation and reflection Aristotle understood that humans are thinking animals (logos), social and moral animals (ethos), and emotional animals (pathos) — such that appealing to all three of these pillars of human understanding and action were essential parts of an effective persuasive speech .

1. Logos — Using clear, logical, and evidence-based reasoning and argumentation to add persuasive power to your speech.

For obvious reasons, audiences will typically expect strong arguments supported by evidence and clear reasoning and logic, all elements that are often prominent on grading rubrics for persuasive speeches.

Maybe you're thinking of speeches you've heard that utterly lacked logic and evidence? It's a reminder that persuasion as such is ultimately about points of view and not always about facts. Even without logic, a speaker can persuade, through effective uses of ethos and pathos , for example. In other instances social phenomena may underlie a lack of logic and evidence, such as "group think," for example , when people are swayed or swept up by a common point of view about an issue, instead of thinking critically about it.

2. Ethos — The component of persuasive speaking that spotlights the appeal, authority, credentials, and moral standing of the speaker .

Have you ever agreed with a speaker simply because you liked the person speaking, or rejected an argument because you disliked a speaker, responding to who the speaker is more than to their arguments? That may not be very logical, but it is very natural for us humans.

Aristotle understood this, that persuasion relies not solely on logical thinking but on relational factors too, including how much we trust a speaker, how much we believe in the integrity of their motives, and the knowledge and expertise they possess (or are perceived to possess).

Take law courts, for example. One common strategy lawyers use to undermine the force of witness testimony is to “discredit” or “taint” the witness , to undermine jurors' confidence in the veracity and motives of the witness. That's using ethos, rather than logic and facts, to impact an audience (the jury).

Likewise, when an audience has a high regard for the speaker's reputation, authority, and credibility, the more convincing that person's arguments are likely to be.

Suggestions for enhancing appeals to ethos in your speech:

• Share a transformative journey where you shifted from an opposing perspective to your current stance due to overwhelming evidence. This approach can demonstrate your capacity for logic and open-mindedness, helping your audience see you as very rational and impartial, potentially strengthening your credibility.
• Incorporate the viewpoints and expertise of respected authorities to bolster your arguments. Referencing reliable sources and experts boosts your credibility by showing you've grounded your arguments in established facts, perspectives, and ideas.
• Foster a connection with your audience. For example, rather than overwhelming them with complex reasoning to showcase your intelligence, strive to comprehend and reflect their perceptions and potential biases regarding your topic. This should make your audience more receptive to your logic and perspectives as your speech progresses.
• Employ personal anecdotes or lived experiences that unveil a deeper layer of understanding and wisdom. This personal touch not only humanizes you, the speaker, but makes your arguments more relatable and persuasive.

Depending on circumstances, you may think of additional ways to bolster your credibility and trustworthiness — enhancing your standing in the eyes of the audience in order to elevate the persuasive impact of your speech!

3. Pathos — This means injecting your speech with some powerful appeals to listeners' feelings and emotions , in addition to using logic and reason.

For example, if your speech entails persuading voters to increase foreign aide to combat world hunger, you wouldn’t just want to cite cold statistics. Painting a picture of ways malnutrition is affecting real individuals is likely to have a strong impact on listeners' emotions, appealing to their innate capacity for compassion towards others and helping them more deeply appreciate the urgency of the subject . This approach impacts listeners' emotions and highlights an urgent and universal moral imperative that adds conviction to your point of view.

In most academic settings, you'll be expected to present a speech with a strong line of evidence-based, logical reasoning, often making appeals to logos prominent in persuasive speeches in school settings. That said, by injecting and balancing appeals to logos, ethos, and pathos, based on what's most suitable for your topic, assignment, and approach, you'll add a significant measure of mastery to your persuasive writing method.

A Consistent Style and Tone

What style, voice, and tone best suit your personality, the occasion, the listeners, and your subject?

• Consider adopting a straightforward, clear, and succinct style , reminiscent of a newspaper editorial or a no-nonsense argument in a voter guide. This approach works well for topics and settings requiring direct communication with clear insights and persuasive arguments free from subjectivity and unnecessary analysis and complexity.
• For topics, interests, or assignments that naturally entail wading through broader philosophical and ethical debates — like debating justifications for euthanasia or arguments against the death penalty — a more introspective, contemplative voice may be expected . This style allows for a deeper exploration of moral dimensions and the broader implications of the issue at hand or the underlying logical principles involved.
• If your inclination is towards something more unconventional, employing humor and wit could be a chance to take the road less traveled! Whether through irony or parody, for example, by showcasing a humorous topic from the outset, such as "why dog people outshine cat people," or cleverly presenting weaker arguments to underscore your point, this strategy, while offbeat, can captivate and entertain , making your speech stand out in a large class setting. Just be sure to balance the creativity with a clear demonstration of your persuasive speech skills and consider checking in with your teacher about possibilities and expectations beforehand.

With a broader understanding of what goes into a great persuasive speech, you’re better equipped for the important step of picking the topic that will guide your speech.

Picking Your Topic — Questions to Ask

Does it interest you.

Conveying passion for a topic is infectious, adding power to your speech. The more interested and invested you are in your subject and topic, the more likely you are to make your speech the best it can be.

Will the topic interest your audience?

Understanding your audience's values, interests, and views will help you make immediate connections with their own thought processes and attitudes. Try to pick a topic that will get your listeners to perk up and move to the edge of their seats.

Is the topic or point of view fresh and engaging?

Choosing a topic that's novel, contemporary, or presents a unique angle on a familiar issue should help you captivate your audience's attention. You also want the topic to be something that matters to your audience with a point of view that challenges their thinking, so you're not just "preaching to the choir."

Are there any "triggers" or otherwise "sensitive" or "inappropriate" themes?

You might not think there’s not any problem with a topic such as Should we build a wall to keep immigrants out of the country? Or, Should same sex marriage be legal? That said, topics that delve into identity politics or areas that are so controversial that they elicit anger or hostility rather than dialogue and debate may lead to emotional hurt and harm, even if not intended. If you have any doubts, check in with your teacher or a school counselor before settling on your topic!

Finding Subjects and Topics on Your Own

Before you jump ahead and grab a ready-made topic from the list below, remember that a quick brainstorming or online search could be your preferred method to find the best, most interesting topic for your audience, setting, and individual interests or class requirements. For example, an internet search with keywords such as “biggest problems or biggest issues in the world today” will quickly uncover a host of themes and subjects that are both timely and controversial.

Search Results for Keyword Phrase Contemporary World Problems and Issues

• Water contamination
• Human rights violation
• Global health issues
• Global poverty
• Children's poor access to healthcare, education and safety
• Access to food and hunger
• Anti-corruption and transparency
• Arms control and nonproliferation
• Climate and environment
• Climate crisis
• Combating and crime
• Countering terrorism
• Cyber issues
• Economic prosperity and trade policy
• Technology and privacy

A General List vs. Time & Place Factors

Where you live and what’s timely for you and your audience is going to depend on your circumstances. Finding a “hot topic” in your specific time and place could be an effective way to get listeners' attention and address an issue that feels highly relevant.

• Is there a big policy decision that’s a hot topic at your school?
• Is there a ballot initiative your community will vote on soon that your audience has strong opinions about?
• Is there a current events issue in your local news headlines that offers a compelling persuasive speech topic?
• What’s before congress these days, or before the Supreme Court, or the United Nations — this week (any great topics there for your speech)?

More Inspiration: 100+ Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics for High School

If you haven’t already navigated your way to an interesting persuasive speech topic, use the list below for even more ideas and inspiration!

You can go from top to bottom, or you can jump the line and look for the themes that most interest you, such as Art and Culture or Recreation and Tourism.

Art and Culture

1. Is digital art really art?

2. Street art: vandalism or cultural expression?

3. Is there a place for censorship in the music industry?

4. Do museums promote culture or appropriate culture?

5. Should other countries have a minister of culture or similar government office, as they do in France?

6. Can schools, or art teachers, define good art vs. bad art? Should they?

7. Censorship in art: when is it justified or necessary?

8. Does creative freedom take precedence over cultural appropriation?

9. The impact of digital platforms on the consumption of art and the value of art.

10. Is there a role for public policy and public funding in arts and culture?

1. The pros and cons of minimum wage laws and policies.

2. Cryptocurrency: the future of finance or a scam?

3. Is student loan debt relief good policy?

4. Gender wage gap: are the concerns justified or unjustified?

5. Sustainable development: Is there a way to sustain economic growth and without an environmental catastrophe?

6. The role of small businesses in the economy, do they promote prosperity or undermine efficiencies?

7. Globalization: economic boon or bane?

8. Is consumerism in the general interest or a threat to the planet?

9. The economic effects of climate change, should they be paid now or later?

10. Universal Basic Income: a solution to poverty or a disincentive to work?

1. The case for and against school uniforms.

2. Should non-citizens be allowed to vote in school board elections?

3. The impact of technology on education.

4. Should college education be free?

5. The importance of teaching financial literacy in schools: promoting independent living or consumerism?

6. Should parents have the right to home school children against their will?

7. Is the grading system improving learning?

8. Is mandatory attendance a good policy for high school?

9. Addressing the mental health crisis in schools: is it an individual problem or a social one?

10. Arts education: valuable or a waste of time?

Environmental Issues

1. The urgency of addressing climate change and what to do about it.

2. Plastic pollution: are more stringent government regulations, policies, and laws the answer?

3. Should the government subsidize clean energy technologies and solutions?

4. The importance of water conservation, but whose responsible?

5. Should there be a global environmental tax? On what?

6. Should environmental costs be factored into everyday economic activity?

7. The impact of fast fashion on the environment.

8. The necessity of protecting endangered species.

9. Deforestation: Who's impacted? Who should have power (or not) to stop it?

10. Are electric cars truly better for the environment?

1. The changing dynamics of the modern family.

2. The role of the state in protecting children from parents and guardians.

3. Should adoption records be open or sealed?

4. How can employers, or employment laws, support healthy families?

5. Is there an age when euthanasia should become universally legal and accessible?

6. How to balance parental rights with child welfare.

7. Is your child's gender something they're born with, or something they should be free to choose?

8. The responsibilities of women vs. men in addressing an unplanned pregnancy.

9. Should parents restrict children's use of technology? What is too lax vs. what is too restrictive?

10. Balancing discipline and love in parenting.

Health, Nutrition, & Fitness

1. Should junk food advertising be regulated?

2. The dangers of fad diets: free market vs. consumer protection.

3. Should junk food be banned in schools?

4. Nutrition: are schools failing to teach it?

5. Should students be graded on their fitness and nutrition levels and habits?

6. Should sports programs be replaced by fitness education?

7. E-cigarettes: should they be regulated or not?

8. The obesity epidemic: a problem of individual responsibility, genetics, or social policy?

9. Are agricultural subsidies good for health and the environment?

10. Should teens have more options for balancing school attendance and individual sleep needs and preferences?

Media, Social Media, and Entertainment

1. The effects of social media on teenagers.

2. Should there be regulations on influencer marketing?

3. The impact of video games on behavior.

4. Fake news: Its impact and how to combat it.

5. The role of media in shaping public opinion.

6. Privacy concerns with social media platforms.

7. The influence of celebrities on youth culture: is there a role for rewards and consequences to impact celebrities public behaviors?

8. Digital detox: pros and cons.

9. Media portrayal of women and its societal impact.

10. Censorship in media: necessary or oppressive?

Politics and Society

1. The importance and limits of voting in a democracy.

2. Gun control laws: balancing safety and liberty.

3. The impact of immigration: universal human rights vs. national sovereignty.

4. The death penalty: justice vs. ethics?

5. The legalization of marijuana: the right policy?

6. The right to protest vs. public order.

7. Affirmative action: whose definition of "fairness" do we use?

8. The future of healthcare in America: market solutions or a public option?

9. Climate change policy: National vs. global approaches.

10. The role of the United Nations in today's world.

Recreation & Tourism

1. The benefits of outdoor recreation.

2. Sustainable tourism: protecting nature while promoting travel.

3. The impact of tourism on local cultures.

4. The future of space tourism.

5. The effects of recreational activities on mental health.

6. The importance of historical preservation in tourism.

7. Adventure tourism: reasonable or unreasonable risks vs. rewards proposition?

8. The effects of over-tourism on popular destinations and local communities.

9. Is eco-tourism the right way to promote environmental sustainability?

10. Does international tourism help or harm indigenous peoples, cultures, and communities?

1. Do the ethical downside of genetic engineering outweigh the potential benefits?

2. The potential and pitfalls of artificial intelligence in society.

3. Climate change denial: is it fully within the bounds of free speech?

4. Competing views of vaccine policies and individual rights in pandemics and other health emergencies.

5. Space exploration: is it worth the investment?

6. The use of affirmative action to diversify STEM education and workforce.

7. The impact of technology on job displacement and future employment: is a universal income the right answer?

8. Do renewable energy technologies offer a feasible substitute for eliminating fossil fuels?

9. Ocean pollution: is more government regulation the answer?

10. Protecting biodiversity vs. the right to economic prosperity.

Sports and School Athletics

1. The emphasis on athletic programs in high schools: is the hype benefiting students?

2. Should college athletes be compensated?

3. Do teamwork and group activities help or hinder academic and athletic development?

4. Should schools should require more physical education or less?

5. Should there be more emphasis on non-competitive formats in high school and college athletics?

6. The influence of professional athletes as role models: good or bad?

7. Doping in sports: are athletic programs teaching the wrong values?

8. The benefits and risks of contact sports in high schools athletics.

9. Should there be absolute gender equality in school athletics?

10. What should the educational goal of school athletics be?

These topics span a broad spectrum of interests and concerns — look for one that matters to you and your audience, is likely to prompt insightful dialogue or debate, and is challenging enough to put your individual persuasive speech skills to the test!

1. Use Diligent Research to Make a Watertight Argument

To go from just any persuasive speech to a truly riveting one, you’ll want to dig around until you find compelling and authoritative research . Even if you're already knowledgeable about your topic, applying yourself with patience and perseverance at this early stage will usually pay off, allowing you to uncover some real gems when it comes to compelling facts and expert perspectives.

What to look for:

• Facts, statistics, and surveys
• An expert analysis of a policy or issue
• Quotes from compelling experts, from books, editorials, or speeches
• Anecdotal evidence in the form of isolated events or personal experiences that don’t have much statistical significance but can illustrate or capture something powerful that supports your point of view, or add emotional appeal
• Graphs, tables, and charts

Riveting research will better position you to hit some home runs when you put together your speech. And remember, research is primarily to build a strong logical argument ( logos ), but citing and spotlighting reputable sources will also lend your speech greater persuasive credibility ( ethos ), just as experiential perspectives can add appeals to emotion ( pathos ).

Define Your Thesis

Clearly articulate your stance on the topic. This thesis statement will guide the structure of your speech and inform your audience of your central argument.

I like to create a "working thesis" as a planning tool, something that encapsulates and maps my point of view and essential supporting arguments, and as a way to uncover gaps in my reasoning or evidence early on. Later, it also gives me a ready guide for writing my outline.

Essential Elements of a ‘working thesis’ for a persuasive speech:

• The subject (including how you'll frame the context for your topic and speech)
• Your main point of view
• List of principal arguments
• The most important counterarguments
• Key rebuttals to the counterarguments

As you can see, this kind of "working thesis" gives you a bird's eye view of your thesis along with all the key components of your speech and the reasoning you’ll deploy.

Marshaling Your Evidence

As you delve into researching your chosen topic, such as "Why space exploration is not worth the investment," you'll accumulate evidence, including data, anecdotes, expert opinions, and more. This evidence is vital for adding depth, credibility, and persuasion to your speech. You also need to strategically align the evidence with each of your supporting arguments , ensuring that each claim you make is substantiated.

You can use a simple table format to visually map out how you want to align your subtopics and evidence.

Here's an example using the topic Why space exploration is not worth the investment .

This table is just for illustration, and doesn't use real data and opinions, but you can see how organizing your evidence ahead of time can help you logically present and support your arguments and subtopics . It can also help you spot gaps, in case you need to do additional research, and gives you a head start on the next step: outlining your speech!

Make an Outline

Begin with a structured outline to ensure your speech flows logically from one point to the next. Your outline should include:

• introduction elements
• key subtopics and the relevant arguments and evidence, examples, anecdotes, or citations, all in sequential order
• key wording for any important or challenging transitions from one line of thought to the next, or from one subtopic to the next
• a section for responding to opposing arguments and viewpoints, with the specific rebuttals, all in sequential order
• key points for your conclusion

Drafting Body Paragraphs, Your Introduction & Conclusion

Now you're making your first rough attempts of turning the key content of your speech into phrases, sentences, and paragraphs. So, this is a could point to refocus on the tone, style, and voice you want to use, and how to use it consistently.

Pro Tip: Write your introduction and conclusion after drafting all of your body paragraphs, because you these two sections to really capture the essence of the larger speech.

Introduction : Start with a strong hook—this could be a startling statistic, a compelling quote, or a relatable and captivating (or entertaining) anecdote— then briefly preview your main points to set the stage for your argument.

Conclusion : Reinforce your thesis with concise references to the the primary evidence you presented. End with a powerful closing statement that reminds your audience of why this topic is important. As suitable, you can also call your audience to action or leave them with something significant to ponder on their own.

Balancing Pathos, Logos, Ethos

Ensure a harmonious balance among logos (logical appeal), ethos (establishing your credibility and using evidence from credible sources and quotes or perspectives from credible authorities), and pathos (emotional appeal).

Checklist for Balancing Logos, Ethos, and Pathos

Here's a rubric, adapted from a real university writing rubric for persuasive speeches, that can help you elevate appeals to logos , ethos , and pathos in your speech.

• Is the thesis clear and specific?
• Is the thesis supported by strong reasons and credible evidence?
• Is the argument logical and well organized?
• What are the speaker’s qualifications?
• How has the speaker connected him/herself to the topic being discussed?
• Does the speaker demonstrate respect for multiple viewpoints, and respond to them with thoughtful arguments?
• Are sources credible?
• Are tone, style, and word choice appropriate for the audience/purpose?
• Is the speech polished and written with care?
• Are vivid examples, details and images used to engage the listeners' emotions and imagination?
• Does the writer appeal to the values and beliefs of the listeners by using examples the audience can relate to or cares about?

Revise & Polish

Review your speech and revise for clarity, flow, sentence structure, and word choice.

Remember to use a voice and style consistent with making a speech, with the topic and subject matter, and the specific circumstances for your speech.

Remove any jargon or unnecessary details that might distract from your message.

Sharpen your arguments, making sure they are clear, concise, and compelling.

Practice the Delivery

Dedicate ample time to practicing what it will be like giving your speech. Focus on mastering the tone, pace, and volume of your delivery. If you have time limits on the speech, be sure to time your delivery as well, and make any needed adjustments. Consider body language, eye contact, and gestures, as these non-verbal cues can significantly impact your speech's effectiveness.

The more comfortable and familiar you are with your speech, the more confidently you'll present it.

Also, being nervous, for lots of people, is normal. Practice will help; with better command of your speech you'll feel more confident. Also, practicing your delivery with a friend who can listen and give you some feedback is good way to catch helpful adjustments.

Final Thoughts

Finding a topic you like and one that your audience will be interested in is a critical foundation for an effective persuasive speech. It will also help you stay motivated and get more out of the experience!

Just remember that investing in some extra research, some thoughtful organization, anticipating counterarguments, and artfully weaving in ethos and pathos alongside a strong line of evidence-based arguments ( logos ) will help you elevate your speech and your learning experience.

With the insights we've just shared, you're more than ready to turn what is often a rote class exercise into something far more artful. In addition, your effort will help prepare you for college — for debating, editorial writing, legal argumentation, public policy advocacy, public speaking, and even running for ASB President!

If you're interested in taking on the challenge of more advanced research and persuasive writing, or even projects that involve scholarly publication, be sure to reach out to a Crimson Education Advisor for information on ways to get connected to advanced online courses and any number of cool capstone and research projects that will also connect you to networks of motivated young scholars and top-notch research and writing mentors.

About the Author

Keith Nickolaus

Keith Nickolaus is a former educator with a passion for languages, literature, and lifelong learning. After obtaining a B.A. from UC Santa Cruz and exploring university life in Paris, Keith earned his Ph.D. in Comparative Literature from UC Berkeley, and then worked for 16 years in K12 education before setting up shop as a freelance writer.

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75 Persuasive Speech Topics and Ideas

October 4, 2018 - Gini Beqiri

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

What is persuasive speech?

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

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

How to choose a topic for your speech

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

Familiarity

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

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

The audience’s interest

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

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

Not overdone

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

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

Emotional topics

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

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

Desired outcome

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

Persuasive speech topics

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

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

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

Arts/Culture

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

Business and economy

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

Law and politics

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

Science and the environment

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

World peace

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

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

After choosing your topic

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

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

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

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

Persuasive Speech Topics - 200+ Ideas

Stuck staring at a blank page for your next persuasive speech? Don't worry, it happens to the best of us. But fear not! Picking the right persuasive speech topic is like choosing the perfect recipe – it all starts with a base that excites you. 

This article is your pantry, overflowing with ideas to get your audience hooked. From social justice to the latest tech craze, we'll help you find the perfect topic to turn that speech into a slam dunk. Even a professional speech writer would’ve been proud of how great your oration is!

What Are Good Persuasive Speech Topics

A persuasive speech aims to convince your audience to believe in a certain idea or take a specific action. It's like making a strong case in court but with words instead of evidence. Choosing a good topic is key!

The best persuasive speech topics should be both interesting to you (after all, your passion will shine through) and relevant to your audience. Think about current events, social issues you care about, or even everyday things you have strong opinions on. The possibilities are endless!

Recommended for reading: Motivational Speech Topics .

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210 Persuasive Speech Topics for College Students

College life is a whirlwind of new experiences, challenging courses, and evolving beliefs. But it's also a prime time to develop your voice and advocate for change. This next section dives deep into topics for a persuasive speech specifically chosen for college students. 

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics

• Fitness Power of Daily Walking
• Banning Plastic Straws: A Small Step with Big Impact
• The Future of Board Games in a Digital Age
• Public Libraries: A Treasure Trove for Everyone
• The Value of Learning a Second Language
• The Benefits of Meatless Mondays
• Why Handwritten Thank You Notes Matter
• Should Schools Offer More Outdoor Learning?
• The Case for Unplugging from Technology
• The Power of Optimism: A Contagious Choice
• The Effects of a Good Night's Sleep
• Why Local Businesses Deserve Your Support
• Volunteering: Making a Difference in Your Community
• The Value of Travel: Broadening Your Horizons
• Why Everyone Should Learn Basic First Aid

Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics

• Virtual Reality: The Future of Entertainment or a Dystopian Nightmare?
• Artificial Intelligence: Friend or Foe?
• The Ethics of Space Exploration: Who Owns the Stars?
• Citizen Science: Everyday People Making a Difference
• The Four-Day Work Week: A Recipe for Happiness and Productivity?
• Universal Basic Income: A Safety Net or a Disincentive to Work?
• The Rise of E-Sports: Are They the New Traditional Sports?
• The Pros and Cons of Living Off the Grid
• Why We Should Be Preserving Endangered Languages
• Rethinking College: Are There Better Paths to Success?
• The Legalization of Psychedelic Drugs: A Medical Breakthrough or a Pandora's Box?
• Should We Colonize Mars?
• The Future of Food: Lab-Grown Meat or Sustainable Farming?
• Social Media Movements: Can They Create Real Change?
• The Importance of Sleep in a 24/7 World

Persuasive Speech Topics for College

• The Mental Health Crisis on Campus: Time to Rethink Support Systems?
• Online Education vs. Traditional Learning: Which Offers a Better Education?
• College Textbooks: Renting vs. Buying - What's the Best Approach?
• Free College Tuition: A Solution to Student Debt or a Recipe for Problems?
• The Value of a Gap Year: Taking a Break to Build Your Future?
• Benefits of Internships: Gaining Experience Before You Graduate
• Monetizing Your Passion: Can You Turn Your Hobby into a Career?
• The Ethical Use of Technology in Education: Boosting Learning or Cheating?
• Studying Abroad: Expanding Your Horizons Through Travel
• Living on Campus vs. Off Campus: Which Offers the Better College Experience?
• Prioritizing Sustainability on Campus: Making Eco-Friendly Choices
• Should College Athletes Be Paid? The Debate on Amateurism
• Financial Literacy for College Students: Is It Necessary Nowadays?
• The Value of Extracurricular Activities: Developing Beyond the Classroom
• The Future of Work: How Can College Prepare You for Jobs that Don't Exist Yet?

Persuasive Speech Topics for High School

• Standardizing Tests: Do They Measure True Success?
• The Power of Sleep for High School Students: Why Early Start Times Need a Rethink
• Should Cell Phones Be Allowed in Class? Finding a Balance
• Financial Literacy in High School: Preparing for Financial Independence
• The Case for More Arts Education in High School: Beyond STEM Subjects
• Trade Schools vs. College: Finding the Right Path After Graduation
• The Value of Volunteering in High School: Giving Back and Building Your Resume
• The Benefits of Participating in Sports: More Than Just Winning
• Mental Health Awareness in High School: Breaking the Stigma
• Should High Schools Offer Mental Health Days? Prioritizing Student Wellbeing
• Positive Peer Pressure: Creating a Supportive School Environment
• The Debate Over Summer Homework: A Time for Learning or Relaxation?
• Media Literacy: Discerning Fact from Fiction in a Digital Age
• The Value of Gap Year Programs: Taking a Break to Explore Opportunities
• Should High School Curriculums Include Personal Finance Education? 

Persuasive Speech Topics on Humanities

• History Buff or Clueless? Why Studying History Matters
• Lost in Translation? The Need for Preserving Endangered Languages
• Beyond Facts and Figures: The Importance of Storytelling in History
• Should We "Cancel" Controversial Historical Figures?
• Art for Everyone: Making Museums More Accessible
• The Ethical Debate: Ownership of Cultural Artifacts
• The Blessing of Music: Bridging Cultures and Generations
• Philosophy in Everyday Life: Applying Big Ideas to Real Problems
• The Value of Literature: Expanding Your Empathy and Understanding
• Rethinking Censorship: Protecting Freedom of Expression vs. Hate Speech
• Should We Fund Public Art Programs? The Value of Art in Our Communities
• Preserving Historic Sites: A Link to the Past
• The Role of Humanities in a Tech-Driven World: Cultivating Critical Thinking
• The Power of Film: Entertainment or Agent for Social Change?
• The Debate Over Artificial Intelligence: Can Machines Create Art?

Persuasive Speech Ideas

• Basic Gratitude: Saying "Thank You" Changes Everything
• The Importance of Play: Why Adults Need It Too
• Microplastics: A Silent Threat to Our Oceans
• The Value of Curiosity: Lifelong Learning Starts with Asking Questions
• The Case for Meatless Mondays: Reduce Your Impact, Boost Your Health
• The Power of Taking Notes: Why Handwritten Beats Digital
• Decluttering Your Life: Less Stuff, More Freedom
• Benefits of Unstructured Time: Boredom Breeds Creativity
• Embrace Saying "No": Setting Boundaries for a Happier You
• The Benefits of Laughter: It's the Best Medicine
• The Value of Board Games in the Digital Age: Connect and Compete
• Public Speaking: Find Your Voice and Inspire Others
• Why Local Businesses Deserve Your Support: Shop Small, Make a Difference
• Sleeping in a Busy World: Rest Your Body, Sharpen Your Mind
• The Case for a Universal Basic Income: A Safety Net for All?

Social Media Persuasive Speech Topics

• Social Media Detox: A Break for Better Mental Health?
• Curating Your Feed: How Algorithms Shape Your Reality
• The Rise of Influencer Culture: Trust or Sellout?
• Combating Cyberbullying: Creating a Safe Online Space
• Fake News and Social Media: Spotting Lies in the Digital Age
• Social Media Activism: Can Likes Lead to Change?
• Social Media and Privacy: Who Owns Your Data?
• The Impact of Social Media on Body Image: Embracing Self-Love Online
• FOMO (Fear of Missing Out): Breaking Free from Social Comparison
• The Need for Digital Literacy: Being a Responsible Social Media User
• The Rise of Social Commerce: Shopping at Your Fingertips
• Should Social Media Platforms Be Held Accountable for Harmful Content?
• The Power of Building Online Communities: Finding Your Tribe
• The Disconnect Between Online Personas and Real Life: Are We Living a Lie?
• The Future of Social Media: Innovation or Exploitation?

Persuasive Speech Topics on Education

• Learning Your Way: Personalized Education
• Learning by Doing: Hands-On Education Revolution
• Quality Over Quantity: Smaller Class Sizes
• Testing, Testing... Is This Working? Standardized Tests Debate
• Sleepy Students, Sleepy Learning: Later School Start Times
• Money Talks: Financial Literacy for Students
• Tech Tools or Tech Trouble? Educational Technology Balance
• Mind Over Matter: Supporting Student Mental Health
• Skills for Success: Vocational Training Value
• Learning Under the Sky: Outdoor Education Matters
• A Shorter Week, More Learning? Four-Day School Week Exploration
• Thinking Globally, Learning Locally: Global Education Importance
• Learning by Building: Project-Based Learning Power
• Uniformity vs. Individuality: School Uniforms Debate
• Education for All: Making College Affordable

Technology Persuasive Speech Topic List

• Brain Boost or Drain? The Impact of Technology on Attention Spans
• Beyond "Likes": Using Social Media for Good
• The Rise of the Machines: Are Robots Taking Our Jobs?
• Privacy Paradox: Balancing Convenience with Security Online
• The Power of Code: Why Everyone Should Learn to Code
• Virtual Reality: Escapism or the Future of Learning?
• The Ethical Dilemma of Facial Recognition Technology
• Augmented Reality: Enhancing the Real World or Distracting Us?
• Digital Divide: Bridging the Gap Between Tech Haves and Have-Nots
• Open Source Software: Collaboration for Innovation
• The Rise of Citizen Science: Using Technology to Advance Research
• Is Artificial Intelligence a Threat? The Debate on AI Safety
• The Ethical Use of Big Data: Who Owns Your Information?
• The Future of Work: How Technology is Reshaping Careers
• Technology for Good: Using Tech to Solve Global Challenges

Nursing Persuasive Speech Topics

• Compassionate Care: The Heart of Modern Nursing
• Beyond Bandages: Nurses as Advocates for Patient Rights
• Technology in Healthcare: Friend or Foe for Nurses?
• Telehealth on the Rise: The Future of Nursing Care Delivery
• Mental Health Matters: Supporting Nurses' Wellbeing
• Building Bridges: Enhancing Communication Between Nurses and Patients
• Specialization vs. Generalization: Choosing Your Nursing Path
• Preventative Care: Nurses Leading the Way
• Men in Nursing: Breaking Down Gender Barriers
• The Importance of Cultural Competency in Nursing Care
• Nurse Educators: Shaping the Future of the Profession
• Combating Nurse Burnout: Strategies for Retention and Resilience
• The Global Nursing Shortage: A Call to Action
• Advanced Practice Nurses: Filling the Gap in Healthcare Access
• Nursing Unions: Fighting for Fair Wages and Working Conditions

Business and Marketing Persuasive Speech Topics

• Customer Experience: Building Loyalty in a Competitive Market
• Sustainability Sells: How Green Practices Can Boost Your Business
• The Rise of Micro-Influencers: Marketing to a Targeted Audience
• Storytelling in Marketing: Connecting with Your Customers on an Emotional Level
• The Content Marketing Revolution: Free Content that Drives Sales
• Data-Driven Decisions: Harnessing the Power of Information for Marketing Success
• The Future of Retail: Adapting to the Rise of E-Commerce
• The Gig Economy: Building a Flexible Workforce for Your Business
• What Is Social Media Marketing: Reaching New Customers Every Day
• Building Your Brand: Standing Out from the Competition
• Ethical Marketing ABC: Building Trust with Your Customers
• Corporate Collaboration: Partnerships for Business Growth
• Remote Work Revolution: Building a Thriving Team Beyond the Office Walls
• Importance of Cybersecurity: Protecting Your Business Data
• The Art of Negotiation: Closing Deals and Building Lasting Relationships

Mental Health Persuasive Speech Topics

• Destigmatizing Therapy: Why Mental Health Care Matters for Everyone
• Mindfulness Matters: Techniques for Reducing Stress and Anxiety
• Positive Thinking: Changing Your Mindset for Better Mental Health
• Breaking the Silence: Openly Discussing Mental Health in the Workplace
• Social Media and Mental Health: Curating a Positive Online Experience
• Sleep Hygiene: Getting the Rest You Need for Mental Wellbeing
• Beyond Medication: Alternative Approaches to Mental Health Care
• Building Resilience: Coping Mechanisms for Everyday Challenges
• The Value of Exercise: Moving Your Body to Boost Your Mood
• Mindfulness in the Classroom: Supporting Student Mental Health
• The Power of Connection: Combating Loneliness and Building Community
• Technology for Mental Wellness: Apps and Tools for Improved Mental Health
• Breaking Free from Social Comparison: Embracing Your Unique Self
• Setting Personal Boundaries: Prioritizing Your Mental Health
• It's Okay to Not Be Okay: Seeking Help When You Need It Most

Controversial Persuasive Speech Topics

• Universal Basic Income: A Solution to Poverty or a Disincentive to Work?
• Gene Editing: Playing God or Curing Disease?
• Banning Handguns: A Necessary Step to Reduce Gun Violence or an Infringement on Rights?
• Legalizing Recreational Drugs: A Path to Freedom or a Public Health Crisis?
• Abolishing Private Prisons: Reforming the Justice System or Endangering Public Safety?
• The Death Penalty: Deterrent or Barbaric Practice?
• Privatizing Education: Boosting Choice or Widening Inequality?
• Mandatory Vaccination Laws: Protecting Public Health or Individual Liberty?
• The Ethics of Animal Testing: Progress in Medicine at the Cost of Animal Welfare?
• Colonizing Mars: A Dream for Humanity or a Waste of Resources?
• Censorship on Social Media: Protecting Users or Stifling Free Speech?
• Nuclear Power: A Clean Energy Source or a Looming Disaster?
• The Rise of Automation: A Jobless Future or a New Era of Leisure?
• Affirmative Action: Promoting Diversity or Reverse Discrimination?
• Should College Athletes Be Paid? Exploitation or Fair Compensation?

Funny Persuasive Speech Topics

• Why Cats (or Dogs) Should Be in Charge of the World
• The Urgent Need for a National Nap Day
• The Case for Wearing Pajamas All Day Long (Every Day)
• In Defense of Public Dancing (Even if You Can't Dance)
• Why Socks Should Never Be Matched
• How to Take a Serious Break from Seriousness
• Why Everyone Needs a Best Friend Who Talks Back (Your Pet)
• Is Procrastination Actually a Superpower?
• The Case for Bringing Back Napkins Made of Cloth (Fancy!)
• In Defense of Talking to Yourself (We All Do It Anyway)
• The Urgency of Inventing a Teleportation Device for Pizza Delivery
• Celebrating National Holidays for Made-Up Things (Talk Like a Pirate Day, Anyone?)
• Why Everyone Needs a Personal Theme Song
• The Gift of Laughter: Why Everyone Needs a Daily Dose of Silliness
• Is It Time We Normalize Public Napping? Let's Discuss

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic

Good persuasive speech topics hit the sweet spot between two key ingredients: your passion and your audience's interest.

Here's why these two matter:

• Passion: If you're fired up about the topic, your enthusiasm will be contagious, making your speech more engaging. You'll be more likely to research thoroughly and craft compelling arguments.
• Audience Interest: A topic that resonates with your listeners will grab their attention and make them more receptive to your message. Consider current events, social issues they care about, or something surprising that sparks their curiosity.

Are you in a hurry? Then, buy speech online from experts who can deliver a stunning oration tailored to your needs overnight.

How to Pick a Great Topic for a Persuasive Speech

The right theme is the foundation for a compelling argument. So, how do you pick the perfect one? Follow these steps to transform your speech from lackluster to captivating:

If you’ve been wondering, ‘Who can make me a speech quickly?’, consider you’ve already found your answer – hiring an expert speech writer to handle this assignment.

Honing your speechwriting skills in college is a win-win. Not only does it sharpen your ability to organize thoughts and craft clear, persuasive arguments, but it also boosts your confidence in public speaking – a crucial skill for future careers and presentations. 

This practice makes you a more effective communicator, allowing you to advocate for your ideas and leave a lasting impact on any audience. Should you ever need help with speech writing, reach out to a professional essay helper who knows all the ins and outs of college assignments. 

Ready to Address Your Audience?

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What's An Easy Persuasive Speech Topic?

How to choose a topic for a persuasive speech, what are the 3 types of topics that people use in persuasive speaking.

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.

• How to write a persuasive speech | Durham ISC. (n.d.). https://www.durhamisc.com/blog/how-to-write-a-persuasive-speech
• https://www.apsu.edu/writingcenter/writing-resources/Persuasive-Speech-Outline-Editable.pdf
• Persuasive Speaking | Department of Communication. (n.d.). https://www.comm.pitt.edu/persuasive-speaking

Top 257 Good Persuasive Essay Topics [Tips & Prompts]

What if your teacher assigned you to write an essay about anything you like? It would excite you at first. You’d consider endless opportunities to express yourself and show your writing skills…

…But then, you start looking for a good persuasive essay idea, and nothing seems to stand out.

Don’t worry:

We have a list of good persuasive essay topics for you! IvyPanda’s team compiled these great ideas that you can explore in detail. Use them for academic writing or public speaking—they would sound convincing either way. And don’t forget to check out our tips on composing a perfect persuasive essay.

Let’s get started and see if you like anything!

• ✋ What Is a Good Topic?
• 📌 Top-12 Topics
• 🎉 Funny Essay Topics
• 🎈 For Elementary Students
• 👩‍🏫‍ For Middle & High School
• 🎓 For College
• 🦉 For Higher English
• 🏈 Sports Topics
• 🩺 Health Topics
• 📲 Social Media Topics
• 🎹 Music Topics
• 💖 Love & Family Topics
• ✔ 60 More Topics
• ‍‍💁‍♀️ 6 Tips on Writing
• 📜 5 Writing Prompts

✋ What is a Good Persuasive Topic?

We can start by understanding what some good persuasive topics ideas are. A lot of people think that persuasive writing is the same thing as the argumentative one. They cannot be more wrong.

Argumentative one is a type of writing that presents arguments without trying to convince anyone. Moreover, it shows both sides of a dispute. There are numerous beautiful essay examples that demonstrate it.

Persuasive writing is a piece of academic writing, which attempts to persuade that the presented viewpoint is more legitimate than any other. The word “persuade” derives from the Latin word “persuadere,” which means “to convince.” This type of essay doesn’t only describe a situation. It takes a stand and delivers a point.

You can use a good persuasive essay topic for both writing and speech preparation. Public speaking can become a lot more engaging when you have a convincing title. Here you can find one that can serve as an exceptional speech idea.

A persuasive topic is good if:

• It serves the purpose. You should be able to develop the topic. Check if there is room for discussion and analysis. For that, make sure there are plenty of primary and secondary sources available. It’s a good idea to check it out before picking your topic.
• It’s engaging for you. Remember that it’s you who will have to write your essay. So, pick something that genuinely interests you. Make sure you will be able to write about it with ease.
• It’s relevant to your readers. Always keep in mind the people who will read your paper. Who is your target audience? Pick a topic that resonates with your audience. Choose something that matters to them.
• It’s unique. One of the best things you can do when coming up with ideas is to stay original and fresh. Of course, it’s quite challenging to find a completely unique topic. However, even if it is more or less common, attempt to find an unusual perspective on the issue.

📌 Top-12 Good Persuasive Essay Ideas

• Is the Internet safe for young kids?
• Should we abolish zoos?
• Can animal testing be ethical?
• Is euthanasia a human right?
• Do public libraries need more funding?
• Is green energy reliable?
• Can we remain anonymous online?
• Is gender a social construct?
• How can debt be relieved for college students?
• Is there a point to political debates?
• Did the 2020 pandemic change the world?
• What is better – high school or middle school?

🎉 Funny Persuasive Essay Topics

Writing about something funny and entertaining is always more pleasant. Not only it puts you in a good mood, but also it helps you to train your sense of humor and stay creative. For your audience, it is even more exciting to read something fun.

This list of funny persuasive essay topics ideas will help you to start your essay. Or it can assist with brainstorming and generating your unique funny ideas.

• Girls do not like gossiping more than boys do. It is a widespread belief, but do you think it depends on gender? Or is it a stereotype that we keep perpetuating? If you ask any man if he gossips, the answer will most probably be negative. However, it is not valid. Men gossip as well. The difference is that they don’t consider their conversations as gossiping.
• Why should people eat less junk food? There are so many good reasons why people should eat less junk food. You can start with listing health benefits, the financial aspects of it. Add data about the inability to check sanitary norms and allergy restrictions. It is a straightforward and exciting topic to write about.
• Everyone should know how to cook.
• Why do smokers have more acquaintances?
• Why parents should stop lying about Santa Claus .
• People should live together before getting married.

• The color of your hair does not affect your IQ. There is a common stereotype that your hair color can somehow determine your IQ. This stereotype has been reinforced by Hollywood movies, magazines, and even by some ordinary people. Can it be true? Find some good scientific explanation for the position you hold.
• Why is social media great for you?
• Regular exercise can help you be happy .
• Netflix can help you grow as an individual.
• Why should homework not be given to kids?
• Overprotection can make your child fail in life . Every parent should allow kids to make mistakes. Unfortunately, that is how we learn. Without this valuable experience, we cannot succeed as adults. We will not be able to make crucial decisions because we will be so afraid of failure. Parents should be able to teach their kids that failure is normal because it is a part of life.
• Physical attractiveness can help you succeed .

😊 Good Persuasive Essay Topics

When you are trying to find a persuasive essay topic, it may not work for you. The task is either too simple or way too hard. This list is arranged based on your academic level. Hopefully, it will help you to navigate and find the topic for a persuasive essay.

🎈 Persuasive Essay Topics for Elementary Students

Being able to persuade others is a vital skill. To do that, we need to learn how to express our thoughts and ideas logically and coherently. Your sentences and words should be straight to the point.

These skills should be trained even at elementary school. This list can help you to come up with the topic for the next elementary school essay.

• School uniform is a good idea . If you disagree with this statement, you can easily change it to be what you agree with. There are plenty of reasons why a school uniform is a great idea. First, it teaches kids to obey authority. They will wear uniforms for the rest of their life no matter what professional path they will use. Second of all, it helps to balance economic differences between kids. Some parents cannot afford expensive clothing, while others can.
• School breaks should be longer.
• Watching TV is good for you.
• Why there should be no homework .
• Eating vegetables is good for your health .
• Why every child should be allowed to have a pet . Having a pet lets you experience what it is to be an adult. It teaches you responsibility. If you have a pet, you can share the lessons you have learned.
• Summer and Winter are the best seasons.
• Kids should be allowed to play computer games.
• I should be able to go to bed when I want to.
• Kids should be able to vote.
• My parents should pay me for doing chores.
• Why having a piggy bank can help you in life. Financial education should start at a very early age. Kids should be able to understand the value of money and what it means to save. If you have a piggy bank, you can share what benefits it has for you.
• Students should be able to give grades to teachers.
• Should we get paid for good grades?
• Having a big family has more benefits than disadvantages.
• Cats are better than dogs.
• Students should be allowed to pick their teachers.
• Using a cell phone at school should be allowed .
• Why learning another language is good for you. Do you like traveling? Or watching movies and cartoons? Learning another language can help you to do so while using a foreign language. It also provides you with a competitive edge and an advantage in the future.
• Everyone should have a hobby.

‍👩‍🏫 Persuasive Essay Topics for Middle & High School

Middle and high school is a place where you can learn and train the essential life skills. There is learning how to count, write, and communicate with others. Besides all of this, you can learn how to be convincing and persuasive. Essay writing is a great way to do that.

So, if you can choose your essay topic, try to go for a persuasive essay topic.

• Smoking is bad for you .
• The school day should start later in the day.
• Households should be obliged to recycle .
• Books should be replaced with tablets. Books are the things of the past. Having to carry heavy books is not necessary anymore. A tablet can contain hundreds of books. It is also better for the environment and forest preservation. If you agree with this statement, choose this persuasive essay topic.
• The Internet is the best invention of the 20th century . Pretty much everyone will agree with you. A modern world would be so much more difficult without the Internet. It elevates communication to another level and provides information. Some people disagree with these statements. They think that the Internet is not the best invention of the 20th century.
• Smoking should be banned in all public spaces.
• Why city life is better than country life.
• The Internet should be free for everyone. It is a critical component of modern life. Such things as applying for taxes, looking for a job, working are impossible nowadays without access to the Internet. Even applying to university, or for scholarships to support your studies cannot be done without it. Consequently, it should be free.
• Should tattoos be illegal?
• Women should be allowed to breastfeed in public.
• Eating chocolate is healthy .
• Animal dissection is inhumane.
• Cities should have a free bike-sharing.
• Video games promote violence . Video games are sometimes connected to violent actions. Kids who play video games are more likely to engage in intense activity. Elaborate on this view or argue against it.
• Social Media is bad for your self-image.
• Who do you consider your hero, and why?
• Texting while driving should be illegal.
• Why zoos should be banned . Lots of individuals love going to zoos. However, look at it from an ethical perspective. You will see why zoos should be forbidden for a large number of reasons. In this essay, you can give your personal opinion. For example, tell your reader why keeping animals in cages is inhumane.

• Gender divided schools are bad for kids.
• The benefits of having younger siblings.

🎓 Persuasive Essay Ideas for College

Choosing a persuasive essay idea for the college level is a real challenge. We’ve already done the hardest part for you and created a list of interesting topics. See if anything looks persuasive enough for your next paper or a public talk.

• How should Americans solve the gun violence issue in the United States?
• One policy that should be implemented in the educational sector.
• Why should public universities have free tuition?
• The death penalty is an ineffective way to prosecute .
• Hunting is not an ethical hobby. Many people believe that it is not a decent hobby because it makes animals suffer. Sometimes an animal can survive the shot but later on experience a prolonged and painful death. Find arguments that support this point of view. You can think that there is nothing wrong with hunting. Then highlight that love for animals and this hobby are not two mutually exclusive concepts.
• Vegetarianism does not save animals.
• Mcdonalds should not be an official sponsor of any sporting event.
• The world should have free borders.
• Abstract art is not art.
• Online learning is best for students and teachers .
• The importance of equal representation of genders and races in the police.
• Capital punishment should be abolished .
• Churches should be required to pay taxes. This debate continues for decades. A lot of people believe that churches should be stripped of their tax-exempt charity status. One of the reasons is that the Catholic Church is the wealthiest organization in the world.
• Teachers should be paid more .
• Americans should speak more languages.
• Beauty contests are bad for teenage girls’ self-image. This type of competition degrades women to mere sexual objects. Those who are not able to participate in such contests end up being affected as well. They feel that they are not good enough. Explore some other arguments about why beauty contests are not good for teenagers.
• Standardized tests should be banned.
• Why should there be only one currency in the world?
• Pets should be allowed to join children at school.
• Why cyberbullying should become a crime .

🦉 Persuasive Essay Topics for Higher English

College students majoring in English can use one of these topics for their essays. Writing a persuasive speech or paper starts with picking the right idea.

Check out this great list of creative and unusual topics for essay writing. Our ideas can help you to deliver an outstanding result that will pleasantly surprise your readers.

• The question of authority is the focus of The Giver by Lois Lowry.
• Why abortions should be allowed.

• People should be charged for racial slurs.
• Guns should not be allowed on College Campuses .
• Elementary schools should focus on teaching how to type, not handwrite.
• Security cameras at a workplace are an invasion of privacy .
• College football should be banned. It is just too dangerous.
• Parents should never lie to their kids. In this essay, you can explain what happens to kids when their parents lie to them. Later in life, it may create a colossal distrust. You can also talk about common lies parents tell their kids such as Santa, dead pet, or swallowing chewing gum.
• Illegal immigration benefits the American economy .
• Do we live in the society predicted by Ray Bradberry in Fahrenheit 451?
• Should priests be allowed to get married?
• Does the government have a right to choose what it censors?
• How the current tax system overburdens middle-class citizens.
• Religious beliefs do not define a person.
• Being egoistic should be encouraged. Being selfish is usually seen as a negative trait. However, psychologists believe that being selfish can make you a better individual. Find arguments that support this point of view. You can claim that being selfish can help you stay healthy or even have better relationships. There are many good arguments you can make that will persuade your readers.
• Sexual desire does not define human behavior.
• Equal rights between men and women are impossible to attain. Elaborate on the topic expressing this or the opposing view. Provide both arguments and counterarguments, striving to convince your reader.
• Women are better at collaborating and executing than men.
• There is a danger in being neutral.
• Should all residents receive free health care?

🎈 Great Persuasive Essay Topics according to Theme

We organized our topics thematically as well. It could help you to search for the right one as you may have to write a persuasive essay for a specific class.

Maybe you have a passion for music, or sports, or a healthy lifestyle. Then, you can go to a theme you like the most. Select a good persuasive essay topic that works.

🏈 Persuasive Essay Topics about Sports

Who does not like sports? Okay, maybe some individuals do not enjoy it. However, most students choose not to write essays about it.

Do you know why?

Mainly because it is hard to find the topic. It is especially problematic when you want to find a good one. This list will give you some fresh persuasive essay ideas.

• Don’t generalize college athletes . There is a common belief that all college athletes are not very smart. In this essay, you should provide reasoning on why this statement is wrong.

• Cheerleading should also be regarded as a sport.
• Only women should be allowed to train female teams.
• Universities should stop spending so much money on sports programs . This essay topic is another debate in American society. A lot of people believe that spending this amount of money on sports does not make sense. We could redirect this money to academics and financial support for students in need. The best schools in the USA do not have large sports programs, explain why.
• Not every sportsperson can be a good coach.
• Every college athlete should get insurance .
• Women should be allowed to compete against men.
• An issue of homophobia in sports.
• Cheerleaders should wear different costumes because the current ones are sexist.
• Why parents should let their kids play extreme sports . Think about why parents should allow their children to participate in such activities. First, you can write about why kids want to do extreme sports. Second, you can elaborate on why parents do not want to let that. You will be surprised at what you might find.
• Fame is the main factor in getting a sports-related career.
• College athletes should get paid as much as the professional ones .
• Chess should become an Olympic sport.
• Sports help with managing depression and anxiety.
• Michael Jordan is the most successful athlete of all time .

🩺 Persuasive Health Topics

This particular section has some ideas of the persuasive essay topics about health. Each section has about five titles.

Let’s see what health topics you can use:

Medical Persuasive Essay Topics

• Everyone should have a right to euthanasia .
• The importance of talking to kids about sex .
• Healthcare should be free. First and foremost, free healthcare can save millions of lives. So, it creates a foundation for a right and just society. Some of the poorest people cannot afford to pay their medical bills. It creates even more inequality in society.
• Talking about childhood cancer is essential to fight it.
• Why marijuana should not be legalized . There is a popular belief that marijuana is not dangerous. However, some scientists disagree with this statement. In this essay, you can persuade your readers not to support the legalization of the drug. Or you can do the opposite. Convince them that it is not harmful and can be beneficial for your health.

Persuasive Essay Topics on Healthy Lifestyle

• Your eating habits affect your personality.
• Seven harmful effects of junk food .
• The vegetarian diet is the healthiest one.
• Unhealthy foods taste so good because it’s a manipulation. This topic is a funny one, but many people probably had the same type of questions. Why do unhealthy foods taste so good? Not only it pleases our taste buds, but it also triggers brain chemicals to start reacting.
• Poor nutrition and life expectancy connection.

Persuasive Essay Topics on Mental Health

• Misuse of ADHD medication among college students.
• Stigma and discrimination affect gay men’s mental health.
• Does playing music during pregnancy increase a baby’s IQ?
• Playing with Barbie dolls can later manifest in eating disorders . Girls who played with Barbie dolls are convinced that their bodies are not perfect. They feel as if they need to diet. An impossible ideal of Barbie creates a disturbance in body image. Society needs to see that playing with skinny dolls does not cause eating disorders. It increases the risks of having low self-esteem. This essay can provide a fresh look at something as innocent as playing with a doll.
• The stigma associated with mental illness has to be eliminated.

Persuasive Essay Topics on Depression

• The connection between perfectionism and anxiety.
• Teenage Depression is more common than you think . Some individuals believe that teenagers nowadays have very unrealistic expectations. They claim the media and Social Media continuously promote a message about “feeling good.” Many people do not teach their kids vital skills on how to manage their lives under pressure. Find some data that can show how regular the issue is. Prove your point with facts and opinions from trustworthy sources.
• Every school should have a mechanism to help students with mental health issues.
• Recognizing the symptoms, signs, and risk factors of OCD is important .
• The reasons why everyone should have a psychologist. There are plenty of reasons why everyone should see a therapist. An essay can discuss some of them and maybe convince people to start therapy.

📲 Social Media Persuasive Essay Topics

Social Media has a considerable impact on the world we live in. Therefore, in the past years, essay topics about it became increasingly popular.

A Social Media persuasive topic should be intriguing, controversial, and relatable.

• The negative effects of Social Media .
• What makes a successful Social Media marketing plan. Some many different tricks and tips help to make a successful social media marketing plan. However, stick to the essential ones. What you are trying to do and what you want to achieve should be the focus. In the world of marketing, it is called S.M.A.R.T. goals.
• The importance of attention getter in writing an Instagram post.
• Don’t forget to live your life, not only to document it for Social Media.
• Teenagers spend too much time on Social Media . In the modern world, almost everyone has a device. People spend a lot of time looking at the screen. Teenagers spend even more. Explain whether it is a problem or how it can be changed. What are the dangers of spending too much time on Social Media?
• A specific purpose of Social Media.
• The positive effects of Social Media.
• Social Media addiction among older people . You might be surprised, but social media addiction exists even among older people. First, talk about what is considered social media addiction. Then talk about how it can be changed. Why should it be changed?
• The reasons why Twitter is popular among celebrities.
• Social Media opened new possibilities for business.
• The world cannot survive without Social Media.
• Social Media promotes cyberbullying.
• Social Media strengthens relationships between people . Despite a lot of negative effects, one thing remains clear: social media helps people to stay in touch. The world we live in today became much smaller because of social media.
• Social Media and Networking Sites are a great help in your professional development.
• Social Media is a social problem.
• Social Comparison caused by Social Media is something we cannot avoid.
• Social Media Influencers are not celebrities.
• The Internet heavily affects News .
• Social Media should not be allowed in the workplace.

🎹 Persuasive Topics on Music

Everyone loves music—both listening to it and reading about it. Imagine how pleasantly surprised your peers will be if you choose a persuasive essay topic on it. Choose an artist or a genre and get creative.

• Hard Rock music is the music of violence.
• Rap music is not music—it’s poetry. A lot of people believe that rap isn’t music but poetry. Do you agree? If you do, then this topic is excellent for you. Look at the history of rap music. You will find some great arguments that support this view. What was the purpose of the first songs?
• Some people have an addiction to music.
• Depressive songs can be triggering for people with mental issues. Sad music usually goes hand-in-hand with depression. If you aren’t feeling well, it is quite reasonable if you choose sad music. However, researchers say that sad music can worsen your condition, so you should be careful. There are a lot of great experiments that demonstrate this idea and prove this point. Your essay can be quite helpful for those battling with their emotions and feelings.
• Music does not always have a positive effect.
• Kids should not listen to death metal.
• Hip hop dancing is a mainstream American culture now.
• Why music talent shows are so popular in America .
• Kids who listen to hip hop music are more rebellious than the rest. Rap music is heavily scrutinized. Kids who listen to rap and hip-hop may be more rebellious than others. It can happen since that such music often advocates violence and rebellion.
• The Negative view of women in hip hop music videos is outdated.
• The similarities between ballet and hip hop .
• The music can influence our behavior .
• The positive aspects of playing a musical instrument.
• Classical music and intelligence.
• The music reflects society and its authenticity.
• The positive effects of Mozart’s music on babies. There are so many advantages when it comes to listening to classical music. That’s why many parents in the United States start playing classical music to kids at a very early age.

• Blacks express themselves through music for centuries.
• Even plants grow better with classical music.
• Jazz is an extinct music genre.
• Reasons why most people do not like country music.

💖 Persuasive Essay Topics about Love & Family

All we need is love. It is a very famous song, and it is so true. Here’s a list of topics about love and family for you to be able to get inspired.

• Love is more than a set of chemical reactions. What is love? A lot of writers, scientists, philosophers, artists tried to answer this question. According to science, love is no more than a set of chemical reactions in the brain. Can it be true? You can argue that love is more sophisticated than any chemical reaction. Finding arguments that support this viewpoint should not be complicated. Or take the opposite stand.
• Everyone needs love.
• Why men do not understand women.
• It is not a good idea to live together before marriage.
• Hitting kids should be a crime. Children cannot make a connection between their actions and physical. Therefore, any form of aggression to children should become illegal. The only thing they feel is pain, so kids should not be physically punished. You can talk about the short-term and long-term effects of childhood traumas caused by caregivers.
• Every parent should talk to kids about sex.
• Why can people be happy only if they have love in their life?
• Love is the only way we can fight racism.
• Why parents should not drink and smoke in front of their children.
• Are marriage bonds are more reliable than any other relationship?
• The concept of love is different from culture to culture .
• The love between Romeo and Juliet was not mature.
• A love of a woman is different .
• Looking beyond imperfections is essential for success in marriage.
• Sacrifice is an element in family life. To build a happy family, we may need to learn the quality of sacrifice. In your essay, you can talk about why it may be necessary. What does it help to achieve? You can include your life examples and show the benefits of sacrifice.

• The changing landscape of love and marriage .
• Love and marriage are incompatible .
• Can parents leave their kids at home alone before 13 years old?
• Teenagers should have more free time.

✔ 60 More Persuasive Essay Topics

In this section, you can find 60 more persuasive essay topics.

1. Persuasive Essay Topics: UK

Choosing a good persuasive essay topic can be difficult. For UK students and students interested in UK culture, finding this section can be such a relief. These ten topics were waiting for you:

• Why Are UK Universities Better than the ones in the USA’s ones? It is a very subjective idea. Though it has a place to exist. If you think that UK universities are better, develop this idea into a persuasive essay.
• Why are UK musicians so famous in America?
• Brexit will help the UK to prosper.
• Why some believe that Shakespeare didn’t write his plays . You have probably heard this point of view before. However, you do not have to agree with it. You could find good arguments to demonstrate this common belief. Explain your position and why people think this way.
• Scotland’s version of UK history is different.
• The UN and International Peace .
• British and English are not synonyms.
• The history of the Northern Ireland crisis.
• Difficult relationships between the United Kingdom and the EU.

2. Persuasive Essay Topics: Philippines

• The effects of globalization on poverty in The Philippines.
• Death penalty laws in The Philippines are cruel.
• Critical issues in the Philippines should be resolved immediately.
• Benefits of a nationwide smoking ban in the Philippines.
• The quality of education in the Philippines should be higher.

3. Persuasive Essay Topics: Canada

• The impact of immigration on the geography of Canada is exceptional. Did you know that Canada receives more than 200.000 immigrants per year? Discuss how it affects economic geography in Canada. Where do most immigrants decide to reside? What happens to the job market?

• Canadian immigration is marked with a history of discrimination.
• Democratic racism in Canada is apparent.
• Canada is in denial about the issue of gender inequality .
• The most famous Canadian women and their achievements are underappreciated.

4. Persuasive Essay Topics: Social Science

• There is a connection between mental illness and aging.
• There are effects of violent movies on psychology. Absolutely everything that people see and watch affects their psychology. It affects us in one way or the other. Unfortunately, nowadays, violence is one of the most common forms of entertainment. This essay can persuade people to watch less violent movies.
• We have to deal with the social issues of families in poverty .
• Technology positively impacts society.
• There are negative consequences of individualism .

5. LGBT+ Persuasive Essay Topics

• Social problems in relation to the LGBT population is still an issue.
• LGBT labor and employment discrimination issues . Unfortunately, the LGBT community still faces discrimination. Besides showing the state of affairs, try to change your reader’s attitude. Make them see it as a social issue.
• The effects of cyberbullying on the LGBT community are significant.
• There is a Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender discrimination in the Hispanic community.
• The causes of homosexual discrimination in American society .

6. Emotional Persuasive Essay Topics

• The importance of the use of ethos, pathos, logos in essay writing.
• The reasons why we should protect the environment.
• Should older people be allowed to drive?
• Is access to the internet a human right?
• The American dream is no longer attainable.

7. Deep Persuasive Essay Topics

• Should graffiti be considered a form of art?
• Stereotypes of American citizens .
• Why the debate over free education for all students should be over.
• Why is it important to teach Shakespeare in school?
• Art and music therapy should be covered by health insurance.

8. Harry Potter: Persuasive Essay Topics

• Does the sorting hat know more than humans?
• Is there a deeper meaning in Harry Potter and The Sorcerer’s Stone?
• A theme of love and betrayal in J.K.Rowling’s books is prominent. A lot of critics believe that Harry Potter is not about magic but love. It is a recurring theme in the whole series.

• Hogwarts: a home away from home.
• We should discuss the symbolism of deathly hallows more.

9. Fashion: Persuasive Essay Topics

• Eco-friendly clothing is the next type of fashion.
• Why is a style more important than fashion?
• What does your choice of dress tell about you?
• Fashion photography is a form of art, as well.
• What are the concepts of beauty in the fashion industry?

10. Domestic Violence: Persuasive Essay Topics

• We have to take into account a cross-cultural perspective on domestic abuse. Different cultures approach domestic violence with varying levels of tolerance. In multicultural families, it can be a challenging problem to address. In your essay, you should try to explain why, in some places, people tolerate domestic violence. Elaborate on why, in other areas, it is forbidden.
• Domestic violence against women is a prominent problem.
• Domestic abuse against men exists too. Not everyone understands, but domestic violence against men is an issue. However, people discuss it less commonly, and men do not like to share their experiences. Why? They prefer to maintain their sharp facade. However, domestic abuse is damaging to everyone.
• There is significant emotional abuse in low-income families.
• Child abuse is still a problem .

11. Persuasive Agriculture Topics

• How urban agriculture affects the economy .
• The agricultural effects on wild animals.
• Should GMO organisms in farming be allowed?
• The issue of agricultural modernization in third world countries .
• Organic farming should be the only type of farming.

👩‍🏫 6 Tips on Writing a Persuasive Essay

A persuasive essay is one of the most common types of academic writing. You, as a student, will be required to master it. The goal is to present a distinct opinion on a topic and illustrate it with arguments and evidence. Hopefully, by the end of this section, you will be able to write a good persuasive essay.

As you already can guess from the name, in the essay, you have to is to persuade (convince) others. Attempts to make people feel and think a certain way. To be able to do that, you need to have a good grasp of logos, pathos, and ethos.

Even heard of it?

A Greek philosopher Aristotle discovered this theory. A good speech that can convince others depends on three elements, which are:

• Logos refers to the part responsible for logical persuasion;
• Pathos refers to the part responsible for emotional appeal;
• Ethos refers to the extent readers are willing to trust the writer.

So, you should determine and implement logos, pathos, and ethos in your essay. You might not be able to use the third one, though. It deals with your social status and reputation.

Now let’s understand what makes a persuasive essay so great:

• Your distinctive position supported by both arguments and counterarguments.
• A compelling style that influences your reader.
• An adequate organization that ensures the natural progression of your argumentation.

📜 5 Persuasive Writing Prompts

In this section, we will give you some good ideas for using both logos and pathos. It is essential to remember about these components if you are writing a persuasive essay. These five persuasive writing prompts will help you to start:

• Immigrants are not a threat to American society. This is such a familiar debate. Some politicians and regular people see immigrants as a threat to American society. Present several facts that argue against the idea. Elaborate on the increase in human capital, innovation, science. Appeal to the fact that America is a country that was built by immigrants.
• The immoral aspect of eating animals. Have you ever heard about the Animal Rights movement? It exists, and it states that causing suffering to animals is immoral. You can argue for or against it. You can say that humans were created to eat meat. Or claim that the Bible says we should be vegetarians. There are many logos and pathos arguments that you can make if you decide to choose this topic.
• Having a lot of friends is impossible. A lot of times, people confuse who is their friend and who is their acquaintance. In this essay, try to find a good definition of who you would call a friend. Friendship requires a lot of time and effort. Is it possible to maintain a lot of friendship relationships?
• Sexual orientation is determined in childhood. A lot of people believe that sexual orientation is determined later in life. However, most LGBTQ+ persons state that it is not valid. They say that their sexual orientation became evident to them even when they were kids. You can develop this argument and include some personal stories of people you know.
• Capital punishment is a crime. In this essay, you can give your opinion about capital punishment. Choose the position you genuinely believe in and support it with evidence. One thing is clear; capital punishment is a susceptible subject. No matter what view you have, you will most probably meet some opposition. Stick to logical arguments and try not to appeal too much to pathos.

Thank you for reading this article! Do not hesitate to share our persuasive essay topics with your friends and fellow students. And leave a comment below—we’d be happy to learn your opinion.

🔗 References

• 100 Persuasive Essay Topics: Grace Fleming, ThoughtCo
• Writing Resources: Writing Center Handouts, Hamilton College
• Ten Timeless Persuasive Writing Techniques: Brian Clark, Copyblogger
• How to Write a Good Argumentative Essay, Easy Step-by-Step Guide: Malcolm Gladwell, MasterClass
• Persuasive Essay, Examples and Definition of Persuasive Essay: Literary Devices, Definition and Examples of literary Items
• Persuasive Essay Outline: HCC Learning Web
• How To Write A Persuasive Essay: Writing Guides, Ultius
• Tips To Write An Effective Persuasive Essay: Melissa Burns, The College Puzzle
• Tips for Organizing an Argumentative Essay: Judith L. Beumer Writing Center
• Counterargument: Gordon Harvey (adapted from The Academic Essay: A Brief Anatomy), for the Writing Center at Harvard University
• 60 Persuasive Essay and Speech Topics: K12 Reader
• 434 Good Persuasive Topics for Speech or Essay: My Speech Class
• How to Write Persuasive Essays: Matrix Education
• 31 Powerful Persuasive Writing Techniques: Writtent
• A CS Research Topic Generator or How To pick A Worthy Topic In 10 Seconds: Purdue University
• Topic Ideas Generator: Online Research Library Questia
• English Grammar, Grammar Rules and Tips: Grammarist, English Grammar, Usage, and Style Blog
• How Do I Cite Sources: Plagiarism.org
• Writing Essays: Learning Development, Plymouth University
• Citation Style and Reference Formats: C. Rodkin, Association for Computing Machinery
• Effective Writing Grammar Rules: Grammar Book
• The Basics of Essay Writing: UNSW Current Students
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27 Persuasive Speech Topics to Captivate Your Audience

• The Speaker Lab
• June 13, 2024

Table of Contents

If you’ve ever written a persuasive speech, chances are you’ve struggled to choose a persuasive speech topic . It makes sense, right? You want to speak on something relevant yet unique, timely but timeless. Sometimes it feels like every good idea is already taken or too controversial. Or maybe the topic you’re considering seems too bland and won’t stir the pot enough. CEOs, entrepreneurs, authors—everyone with something important to say faces this challenge.

Well, fear not. We’ve got some fresh ideas for persuasive speech topics coming right up. These aren’t your high school debate prompts; they’re designed for individuals ready to make waves across industries and impact audiences. So if you’re on a mission to reshape perceptions and create genuine transformation, stick around.

Understanding the Power of Persuasion

Before we dive into these topics, let’s get one thing straight: understanding persuasion in speech is like having a superpower. But what makes some speeches stick with us forever? Persuasive speaking works its charm by tapping into our emotions and reasoning. It’s that perfect blend of ethos, pathos, and logos that the Greek philosopher Aristotle talked about centuries ago.

• Ethos: This is all about credibility. If the audience trusts the speaker (you), they’re more likely to be on board with your message.
• Pathos: Here’s where emotions come into play. The right emotional appeal can make an audience start to see things your way.
• Logos: Logic seals the deal. A well-reasoned argument backed by solid facts? Hard to argue against that.

This trio works together to create a kind of spellbinding effect that doesn’t just persuade, but also sticks with your audience long after the talk has ended. With these three rhetorical appeals in hand, you can do more than convince; you can transform thinking and ignite action because your persuasive speech topic resonates on a deeply personal level for each listener.

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Choosing Persuasive Speech Topics That Resonate With Your Audience

Tailoring your topic to your audience isn’t just important; it’s everything when it comes to persuasion. After all, if you don’t know who you’re talking to, how will you grab their attention? Imagine chatting about quantum physics with a room full of poets or discussing poetry at a tech conference. See the mismatch? Choosing the right persuasive speech topic means finding one that resonates deeply with your listeners’ lives and experiences.

To analyze your audience effectively, you’re going to want to do a little digging ahead of time.

• Dig into Demographics: Age, occupation, education level—these aren’t just numbers and titles; they’re clues into what might spark interest.
• Catch the Cultural Cues: What cultural backgrounds are present in your audience? Understanding their cultural fabric can influence what makes them laugh, what they hold sacred, and even the subjects that might be touchy.
• Tune into their Concerns: What keeps them up at night? Whether it’s climate change or personal finance, aligning your speech here can keep your audience engaged.

In essence, knowing your audience means respecting them enough to make sure they walk away feeling heard and understood rather than preached at or overlooked. And guess what? When folks feel respected and valued, they listen more closely.

Exploring Persuasive Speech Topics

Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or just starting out on your public speaking journey, choosing persuasive speech topics that resonate with audiences can feel difficult. However, knowing who’s sitting in your audience can make that decision a lot easier. Analyzing your audience ensures that your message hits home and sparks interest and debate. Consider some of the categories below as you brainstorm your speech topic.

• Current Events and Social Issues: Hot off the press. These topics are fresh, relevant, and have everyone talking already. You’re halfway there.
• Ethical Dilemmas and Moral Questions: Moral dilemmas offer rich soil for persuasion because they invite listeners to explore their values.
• Technology and Innovation: Tech shapes our future every day. Discuss its impacts or ethical considerations for endless engagement.
• Health and Wellness: This area touches everyone’s life at some point. From diet fads to healthcare policies—if it affects well-being, people want to hear about it.
• Educational Reform and Policy Changes: Schools shape societies’ futures; thus discussions around education reforms carry weight for many listeners looking toward tomorrow’s promise.

Your chosen topic doesn’t need to be grandiose or controversial. Sometimes simplicity speaks volumes more than we give it credit for. When crafting your persuasive speech, the goal is simply to choose a topic that both informs and transforms perspectives.

Current Events and Social Issues

Diving into the realm of current events and societal debates has the power to transform a decent speech into one that lingers in memory. Why? By engaging with present-day events and societal dilemmas, we are moved, provoked, and occasionally our perspectives on life are profoundly altered.

So, let’s dive right in. Here are some persuasive speech topics that are not just timely but packed with potential to spark debate, drive change, or at least get people thinking.

• Climate Change: It’s been talked about for years, but with wildfires raging and ice caps melting it’s a more critical topic than ever. How can we not only stop but reverse the damage?
• Social Justice Movements: From Black Lives Matter to Stop Asian Hate, these movements have stirred conversations worldwide. In what ways are governments expected to step up and guarantee fairness among their citizens? How can each person pitch in meaningfully to support these vital movements?
• The Tech Takeover: Technology is shaping our future, but at what cost? Let’s talk digital privacy rights or AI ethics.
• Mental Health Awareness: With a global pandemic throwing life as we know it out of balance, mental health has taken center stage. How do we build societies that support mental wellness?

Right now, we’re smack in the middle of events that will fill history books for generations to come. Each of these topics isn’t just relevant; they’re urgent. But remember this: while diving deep into any of them could make for powerful persuasive speeches, always aim for empathy over controversy.

Ethical Dilemmas and Moral Questions

We live in an era teeming with issues ripe for debate—climate change action versus economic growth challenges; genetic engineering marvels against ethical quandaries; digital age freedoms wrestling with security needs—the list goes on. Persuasive essay topics that deal with ethical dilemmas and moral questions can be great ways to challenge your audience—and even yourself. Take a look:

• Government Surveillance: Is it a necessary protection or an invasion of privacy?
• Vaccine Mandates: Is it a public health safety net or a personal freedom infringement?
• Data Privacy vs. Technological Advancement: Where do we draw the line?
• Artificial Intelligence: Should machines have rights like humans do?

Good persuasive speeches do more than wade through facts. They spark engaging dialogues, challenge people’s beliefs, and maybe even alter their viewpoints. Exploring persuasive speech topics about ethics and morality forces us to dig deeper and frequently nudges us beyond the boundaries of our comfort zones. But here’s the kicker: they also make your speech unforgettable.

Technology and Innovation

Technology’s relentless pace has us all on our toes, wondering what’s next. As a result, it gives us plenty of persuasive speech topics to consider.

• AI Ethics: Artifical intelligence can be a force for good, but it can also have negative outcomes, like the loss of jobs. Should it be regulated? If so, how?
• Data Privacy: What responsibility do corporations have to consumers when it comes to data privacy? This would be a great topic to explore data and privacy rights.
• Gene Editing: Thanks to technology like CRISPR, it’s now possible to edit genetic code. But is it ethical to edit the genes of humans, either born or unborn? How far is too far?
• Elon’s Mars Mission: Is exploring other planets our human duty or a waste of resources?

With technology moving faster than legislation can keep up, posing these questions is vital. Without scrutiny, technology can quickly become a dangerous tool, so it’s important to spend time exploring its implications. Whether you’re prepping for your next persuasive speech or simply want to stay informed, digging into these topics is a great way to keep your audience engaged and informed.

Health and Wellness

When it comes to persuasive speech topics, health-related issues pack a punch like no other because, well, who isn’t interested in living their best life? In addition, it’s a topic that everyone can easily relate to because our well-being is something that we all think about. As far the specific issue you choose, you’ll want to look back on the research you did on your audience. Are they fitness buffs looking for the next challenge or parents concerned about family nutrition? Tailor your topic accordingly.

• Effects of the Pandemic: Dive into how global pandemics reshape public health policies.
• Mental Health: In what capacity is mental health affected by technology? Is social media a concern? If so, what steps should parents take to protect themselves and their children in an increasingly digital world?
• Artificial Intelligence:  Chat about wearable tech transforming personal wellness or AI’s role in advancing healthcare solutions.
• Educational Reform & Policy Changes: Debate the necessity of nutritional education in schools or argue for more accessible healthcare services.

Health is a great topic for persuasive speeches because if there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s wanting good health—not just for us but generations to come.

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Education Reform and Policy Changes

Schooling serves as the cornerstone for nurturing groundbreaking advancements, fostering fairness, and upholding democratic values. However, these days, many are calling for education reform . These voices challenge us to question norms, imagine new possibilities, and rally for collective action. Of course, not everyone sees eye-to-eye on what needs changing in our schools or how to do it. So before you pick one of the topics below, again, make sure you understand who you’re talking to. That’s step one towards making an impact.

• Standardized Testing: How necessary is it and who really benefits from it?
• Educational Funding: What is causing funding inequities between rich and poor districts? How might this be addressed? What solutions have been tried and have they worked?
• School Curriculum: How should schools implement inclusive curriculums reflecting diverse histories and experiences?

Before change can occur, questions must be asked. By posing questions about the state of education in the U.S., you can challenge what people really know about the system in place. And who knows? You just might surprise yourself by what you find.

Exploring persuasive speech topics is the first step towards delivering a memorable speech. When you understand the power behind every word and meet your audience’s expectations, you can craft messages that resonate.

Potential topics range from current events to technology and innovation. Even ethical dilemmas can turn into a great persuasive speech when handled carefully. Similarly, speaking on health and wellness turns personal goals into universal concerns that are sure to grip your audience. Last but not least, educational reform provides plenty of room for conversation, as it’s sure to affect generations to come.

These aren’t just topics, though. When you stand before an audience next time around, remember: you’re not just delivering a speech—you’re igniting change one word at a time.

• Last Updated: June 12, 2024

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113 Perfect Persuasive Essay Topics for Any Assignment

General Education

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

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

What Is a Persuasive Essay?

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

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

All persuasive essays have the following:

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

What Makes a Good Persuasive Essay Topic?

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

It’s a Topic You Care About

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

You Have Enough Evidence to Support Your Argument

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

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

It’s a Manageable Topic

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

List of 113 Good Persuasive Essay Topics

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

Arts/Culture

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

Government/Politics

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

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

Tips for Writing a Strong Persuasive Essay

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

Do Your Research

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

Make Your Thesis Perfect

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

Consider the Other Side

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

Summary: Persuasive Essay Ideas

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

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

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

What's Next?

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

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

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

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

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Persuasive Essay Writing

Persuasive Essay Topics

Easy and Unique Persuasive Essay Topics with Tips

15 min read

Published on: Jan 4, 2023

Last updated on: Jan 29, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

On This Page On This Page -->

Unique Persuasive Essay Topics for Students

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

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

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

Persuasive Essay Topics for Middle School 

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

Persuasive Essay Topics for Grade 6 

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

Persuasive Essay Topics for Grade 7

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

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Persuasive Essay Topics for High School 

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

Persuasive Essay Topics for College 

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

Persuasive Essay Topics for University 

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

Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics from Different Fields 

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

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

Arts & Culture 

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

Government and Politics 

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

Social Media

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

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

Controversial Persuasive Essay Topics 

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

Fun Persuasive Essay Topics 

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

Argumentative Persuasive Essay Topics 

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

How to Choose a Good Persuasive Essay Topic? 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tips for Writing a Compelling Persuasive Essay 

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

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

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

1. Choose Your Topic Carefully

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

2. Do Extensive Research

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

3. Identify Your Audience

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

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

4. Use Logical Arguments

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

5. Structure Your Essay Well

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

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

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

6. Make It Engaging

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

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

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

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

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can i choose a good persuasive essay topic.

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

What strategies can I use for writing a persuasive essay?

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

How can I make my persuasive essay stand out?

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

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101 Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics for Kids and Teens

Use your words to sway the reader.

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

School and Education Persuasive Essay Topics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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
• Examples of Great Introductory Paragraphs
• List of Topics for How-to Essays
• Complete List of Transition Words
• Tips on How to Write an Argumentative Essay
• 501 Topic Suggestions for Writing Essays and Speeches
• How to Write a Narrative Essay or Speech (With Topic Ideas)
• 67 Causal Essay Topics to Consider
• Practice in Supporting a Topic Sentence with Specific Details
• What Is Expository Writing?
• Topical Organization Essay
• How to Outline and Organize an Essay
• Make Your Paragraphs Flow to Improve Writing
• 40 Topics to Help With Descriptive Writing Assignments
• What an Essay Is and How to Write One
• Personal Essay Topics

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English Speech Topics for Students

• Updated on  
• Apr 2, 2024

Writing an exciting and thoughtful speech requires selecting a good topic, researching it thoroughly, and forming individual opinions to express the same. School students are usually asked to speak on a contemporary topic to help them become good public speakers as well as learn the art of expressing oneself in front of an audience. While many speech competitions often allot topics beforehand, you might also have heard of extempore where topics are given on the spot for speech. This blog brings you a list of common English speech topics as well as some helpful tips and tricks that can assist you in effectively expressing your thoughts and opinions in front of an audience. Before starting, we would like to give you one piece of advice: you can also Humanize AI to humanize these topics for better readability and human touch, if required. Let’s begin!

Checkout our 200+ Essay Topics for Students in English

This Blog Includes:

List of best english speech topics for students, 1-minute speech topics, 2-minute speech topics, 3-minute speech topics, easy topics for speech in english, english speech topics on environment, english speech topics on technology, english speech topics on independence day, english speech topics on diwali, english speech topics on corruption, english speech topics on feminism, english speech topics on mother’s day, english speaking topics on capitalism, engish speech topics on gandhi jayanti, english speech topics on reading, english speech topics on communism, english speech topics on deforestation, english speech topics on social issues, english speech topics on important days & events, english speech topics on greatest leaders in india & around the world, english speech topics on indian culture, english speech topics on proverbs, english speech topics on human rights, english speech topics on education, english speech topics on the importance of water, miscellaneous speech topics, types of persuasive speech topics, tips for writing and speaking a speech.

Speeches are all about one’s thoughts. It should not be copied from somewhere. It is all about what the speaker thinks of any given topic. However, take a look at the following list of English Speech topics on different contemporary issues as well as concepts.

• The Best Day of My Life
• Social Media: Bane or Boon?
• Pros and Cons of Online Learning
• Benefits of Yoga
• If I had a Superpower
• I wish I were ______
• Human Rights
• Environment Conservation
• Women Should Rule the World!
• The Best Lesson I Have Learned
• Paperbacks vs E-books
• How to Tackle a Bad Habit
• My Favorite Pastime/Hobby
• Why should every citizen vote?
• Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): Is it real or not?
• Importance of Reading
• Importance of Books in Our Life
• My Favorite Fictional Character
• Introverts vs Extroverts
• Lessons to Learn from Sports
• Beauty is in the eye of the beholder

Quick Read: English Speaking Books

Quick Read: Essay on Peer Pressure

Quick Read: Essay on Health and Fitness for Students

• Importance of Kindness
• Is there Value in Homework?
• Things I learned in Lockdown
• How can food be recycled?
• Should Art be a part of the school curriculum?
• Should schools teach sign language?
• Women make better presidents/prime ministers
• Why books are better than movies?
• Life was better when technology was simple
• Impact of technology on our health
• Should children’s reality shows be banned?
• Learning in the Wake of COVID-19
• Hard Work vs Smart Work
• What Makes Learning Fun?
• The Coolest Inventions You’ve Seen
• Nuclear Energy
• Importance of AI in Education
• Importance of Extracurricular Activities
• Should exams be banned?
• How to Tackle Bullying in Schools?

• Speech about dreams
• Speech about life
• Speech on time
• Speech on discipline
• Speech on happiness
• Speech on kindness
• Speech on value of time
• Speech on health and fitness
• Speech on Doctor
• Speech on Nurse
• Graduation Day Speech
• World Health Day Speech
• Sex Education Speech
• Importance of Education
• Is it beneficial to learn a Second Language?
• Music has healing power
• Success in life
• Self Confidence
• 18th birthday
• Love is more powerful than hate
• Social Impact of Covid-19
• How can Online Learning be Fun?
• Make Public Transport Free
• Should violent video games be banned?
• Speech on Learning

Exploring English Speech Topics? You must also take a look at Extempore Topics !

• Climate Change
• Ozone Layer Depletion
• Reducing Water Levels
• Deforestation
• Global Warming
• Waste Management
• Water-Saving Techniques
• Reducing the Green Cover of Earth
• Endangered species need protection
• Importance of fishing regulations
• Importance of investing in alternative fuels
• Impact of ocean acidification on marine organisms
• The misuse of the term “sustainable development” by environmentalists
• Microbial benefits
• E-Waste Management
• Natural Disasters and their impact on economic growth
• Energy alternatives – Only solution to the environmental damage
• Extinction of rare species
• World Environment Day
• Disaster Management
• Over and Improper Use of Natural Resources
• Air, Water and Soil Pollution
• Efficiency of Recycling

Also Read: How to Write Dialogue: Format, Tips and Examples

• Technology and Mental Health
• Privacy in the Digital Age: Navigating the Challenges of Data Collection and Surveillance
• The Impact of Technology on Society
• Artificial Intelligence: The New Normal
• The Role of Social Media in Communication and Social Interactions
• Sustainable Technology: Innovations for a Greener Future
• The Rise of E-commerce
• Gaming Technology: Entertainment, ESports and Interactive Experiences
• The Digital Divide: Bridging the Gap for Equal Access to Technology
• The Ethical Dilemmas of Emerging Technologies

Also Read: English Vocabulary: Meaning, Types, Tips to Improve

• The Journey of Independence Day
• The Significance of Independence Day
• Indian Independence Day
• Remembering the Founding Fathers
• The Spirit of Independence
• Independence Day and Volunteering
• Independence Day Speeches
• India’s Road to Freedom
• Independence Day and National Identity
• Independence Day in the Digital Age
• Independence Day and Women’s Empowerment
• Diwali: The Festival of Lights and Its Significance in Hindu Culture
• Diwali and the Victory of Good Over Evil
• Diwali and the Art of Giving
• Diwali and the Spirit of Forgiveness
• Diwali and Cultural Exchanges
• Diwali and the Essence of Joy
• Diwali and Social Responsibility
• Diwali and Artistic Expressions
• The Rituals and Traditions of Diwali
• Diwali and the Symbolism of Light
• The Economic Consequence of Corruption
• Corruption and International Aid
• Media and Corruption
• Fighting Corruption
• Corruption in Politics
• The Role of Transparency and Accountability in Curbing Corruption
• The Role of Technology in Combating Corruption
• Whistleblowing and Protecting Mechanism
• Corruption in Business and Corporate Practices
• Understanding Feminism
• The Future of Feminism
• Feminism and Parenting
• Feminism and Online Activism
• Feminism and Environmental Activism
• Feminism and Reproductive Rights
• The Gender Pay Gap: Examining Inequalities in the Workplace
• Feminism and its Evolution
• Feminism and Body Positivity
• Feminism and Media Representation: Encouraging Authentic and Diverse Portrayals of Women
• Expressing Gratitude and Love to Mothers
• The Influence of Mothers in Shaping Our Values and Beliefs
• Motherhood and Education
• Mother’s Day and Volunteerism
• Mother-Daughter Relationship
• The Role of Mothers in Shaping Society
• Mother’s Day Crafts and DIY Gifts
• Learned Lessons from Mothers
• Mother’s Day Around the World: Cultural Traditions and Celebrations
• Capitalism: An Introduction to the Economic System and its Principles
• The Future of Capitalism
• Pros and Cons of Capitalism
• Capitalism and Globalisation
• Capitalism and Consumerism
• Capitalism and Financial Crisis: Undertaking the Risk and Mitigation Measures
• Capitalism and Environmental Sustainability
• Capitalism and the Role of Government
• Corporate Social Responsibility in Capitalism
• Capitalism and the Digital Economy
• Mahatma Gandhi: The Father of the Nation and His Ideals
• Remembering Gandhi: Reflecting On His Life and Legacy
• Gandhi’s Influence on the Indian Independence Movement
• Satyagraha: The Power of Truth and Nonviolent Resistance
• Gandhi’s Philosophy of Swaraj
• The Role of Women in Gandhi’s Freedom Struggle
• Gandhi’s Teaching on Education and Moral Values
• Gandhi’s Lasting Legacy
• Gandhi’s Vision for a Just and Inclusive Society
• The Relevance of Gandhi’s Principles in Today’s World
• The Influence of Reading on Emotional Intelligence and Empathy
• Reading and Mental Health
• Benefits of Reading
• Reading and Empowerment
• The Role of Reading in Academic Success and Lifelong Learning
• Promoting a Reading Culture: Encouraging Reading Habits in Society
• Reading Biographies and Memoirs
• Reading and Social Connections
• The Joy of Reading: Escaping Into the Different Worlds and Characters
• Translating a book into another language
• Reading and Personal Identity
• The Current State of Communism
• Communism: An Introduction to the Ideology and Its Historical Context
• The Evolution of Communist Movements
• The Role of the State in a Communist Society
• The Fall of Communist Regimes
• Communism and Religious Freedom
• Communism and Gender Equality
• Communism and Workers’ Rights
• The Criticisms of Communism
• Deforestation: Causes, Consequences and Global Impact
• Deforestation and Climate Change
• Deforestation and Carbon Sequestration
• Deforestation and Individual Actions
• Deforestation and Wildlife Trafficking
• Deforestation and Sustainable Development
• Deforestation and Indigenous Communities
• Deforestation and Biodiversity Loss
• Deforestation and Forest Fires
• The Importance of Forests

Quick Read: Speech on Nuclear Energy

• Women Empowerment
• Education of Girl Child
• Unemployment
• Casteism 
• Reservation
• Importance of Maintaining Hygiene
• Child Labour
• Social Distancing
• Organ Donation
• Importance of the Right to Education
• Child Trafficking
• Cultural Diversity
• Struggles of Immigrants
• Impact of Globalisation
• Adult education
• Independence Day
• Mother’s Day
• World Cancer Day
• World Population Day
• World Health Day
• Ambedkar Jayanti
• Gandhi Jayanti
• Human Rights Day
• Zero Discrimination Day
• Women’s Day
• Thanksgiving
• Anti-Terrorism Day
• Hindi Diwas 

Check out this list of all the important national and international days in 202 4 !

• Mahatma Gandhi
• Jawaharlal Nehru
• Raja Rammohan Roy
• George Washington
• Albert Einstein
• APJ Abdul Kalam
• Nelson Mandela
• Kailash Satyarthi
• Diversity in India
• Speech on Holi
• The Role of Yoga and Meditation in Indian Culture and Its Global Impact
• The Importance of Traditional Indian Clothing
• Indian Folklore
• Indian Festivals
• The Art of Indian Dance
• Traditional Indian Medicine (Ayurveda)
• Indian Epics and Mythology
• Social Customs and Etiquettes in Indian Society
• Indian Sports and Games

Also Read: Speech on Indian Culture

• Honesty is the best policy
• When there’s a will, there is a way
• Actions speak louder than words
• Knowledge is Power
• Ignorance is Bliss
• Don’t judge a book by its cover
• Hard work is the key to success

Explore these proverbs & their meanings through this blog on Difficult Phrases !

• The Role of International Organisations in Promoting and Protecting Human Rights
• The Universal Declaration of Human Rights: A Milestone in Human History
• Gender Equality: Breaking Barriers and Empowering Women
• Ensuring a Safe and Sustainable Environment for the Next Generation
• The Right to Education: Empowering Minds
• Bridging the Gap Between the Rich and Poor
• Human Rights and Armed Conflicts
• Global Fight to Combat Human Trafficking
• Human Rights and Climate Change
• Religious Freedom: Tolerance and Coexistence in a Diverse Society

To know what to mention in such speech topics, explore the Great Personalities in the World !

• Importance of teacher in your life
• SAT scores for college application
• Student bullies should be expelled
• Consequences of cheating in exams
• Homeschooling is better than normal schooling
• Importance of value education
• Importance of sports and physical exercises
• Schools vs colleges
• What is the difference between a school, college and university in the USA?

Check Out: Synonyms List

• The Water-Energy Nexus
• The Essence of Water: Exploring the Live-giving Properties of H2O
• Water as a Driver of Economic Growth and Prosperity
• Water Security: Ensuring Equal Access and Quality for All
• Water and Agriculture
• The Role of Water in Ecosystems
• Water and Blue Economy
• Water Diplomacy: Promoting Collaboration for Transboundary Water Management
• Water and Cultural Significance: Exploring Symbolisms and Rituals
• Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH): Foundational for Human Health and Dignity
• Article 370
• Women rights
• The Constitution of India
• Youth of India
• Culture of India
• Importance of Unity
• Generation Gap
• Importance of Value Education
• Old Age Homes
• Family Values
• Leadership skills
• Rise of Smart Classes
• Grading System
• Importance of Practical Education
• Benefits of Co-Education
• Importance of Co-Curricular Activities
• The uselessness of Power-Point Presentations
• Rise of Technology
• Excessive usage of the Internet
• Speech on Fear
• Speech on Dependence on Technology
• Importance of Social Media
• Speech on India of My Dreams
• Indian Education System
• Speech on My India

While exploring persuasive English speech topics, you must make sure that they are stimulating, engaging, concise and clear. There are three main types of Persuasive Speech topics which are:

1. Factual Persuasive Speech : These topics include facts, figures and statistics to thoroughly analyse the given topic and assess whether it’s true or false.

2. Policy Persuasive Speech : Discussing policies, laws and reforms, these speech topics critically examine the advantages and disadvantages of the given policy or law and suggest the improvements that can be made.

3. Value Persuasive Speech : Mainly focusing on social or political issues, these speech topics present the critique and argument of whether certain actions are morally right or not.

While speaking on a particular topic, there are certain things that you must keep in mind to make your speech expressive and effective. Let’s take a look at some useful topics that help you in acing any topic you are speaking on.

• Always research the topic. If you are participating in an extempore, then make sure to go through the common and popular topics as well as the unconventional ones that you might get. Preparation is the key to delivering an impressive speech. For inspiration, look up various speech examples to see how effective speakers engage their audience
• Whether you are given a topic on the spot or you are prepared for the speech, it is always pivotal that you seem interested in speaking about it. Relate the given issues to your own life and this will help you in giving it your twist.
• Pay extra attention to your body language and enunciation. While a gesticulative approach will make you seem outward, having timid body language can cause a wrong impression.
• Ponder upon the different viewpoints on a topic . Try to present a holistic view of the given topic but don’t forget to present your opinion on it as well. Along with this, don’t try to take sides unless the topic demands you to.
• Involve your audience, if possible. This way, you will be able to interact with the people and it will also be useful in fighting the fear of public speaking.
• Don’t mug up a speech. It becomes evident when someone just speaks on a topic continuously and the audience might realise that you have memorized it or you might forget a certain part which will let the whole speech fade away from your brain.
• Instead, make notes about the topic in your mind, remember certain keywords and try to maintain a particular flow in your speech.
• Incorporate humour in your speech in a way that you do not offend anyone or overdo it but get a positive reaction from the audience. Humour is a great way of lightening the mood as well as ensuring the whole speech is interactive and engaging.
• When you need more specialized assistance, a  US essay writing service  can be a valuable resource for crafting your speech.

While preparing for English Speech topics, you must also check out IELTS Speaking Topics !

Juvenile delinquency is acceptable. Prostitution should be legal. Underage driving should be punishable by law. Beauty pageants for children should be banned. Prisoner’s right to vote. Voting rights should not be universal. Guns should be banned from college campuses.

A three-minute speech is undoubtedly a wonderful starting point for public speaking. This is because you need to communicate with your audience more effectively when you just have a short amount of time. In addition, the speech ought to be concise, pertinent, and clear.

Life is the gift of God in the form of trust that we will make it meaningful in whatever we can. We are all unique individuals. No one is born like you and no one will ever be, so cherish your individuality. Many times, I come across people accusing God of things that they don’t have. They always cursing their lives.

 2-minute speeches are  short and crisp speeches of about 260-350 words .

Related Reads

Thus, we hope that this list helps you in preparing for different English speech topics. Gearing up for IELTS ? Sign up for an online demo session with our experts at Leverage Edu and we will assist you in preparing for its different sections as well as improving your reading, listening, speaking and writing skills to ensure that you ace the exam with flying colours!

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14 comments

I take english speaking classes, please provide me sone more material to help student’s.

Here are some articles on books and study material that will help your students- https://leverageedu.com/blog/english-speaking-books/ https://leverageedu.com/blog/books-by-charles-dickens/ https://leverageedu.com/blog/best-books-by-george-orwell/

I want topic on students and online classes

It is helpful for my school homework thanks 😸

Glad we could help!

Nice advise 👍

Thank you, Pragya!

Not good topics 🤔🤔

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100+ Most Popular Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics in 2024

Writing a rhetorical analysis essay can feel like stepping into a world where words are weapons, and arguments are battles to be won. Whether you’re in high school or college, finding the right rhetorical analysis essay topic can set the stage for a compelling and insightful piece. In 2024, with the ever-evolving landscape of media, literature, and public discourse, there’s no shortage of fascinating topics to choose from. So, let’s dive into some of the most popular and intriguing rhetorical analysis essay topics that can help you craft an essay that not only meets your academic requirements but also captivates your audience.

What is a Rhetorical Analysis Essay?

Rhetorical analysis is the process of examining how an author or speaker uses language to persuade or influence their audience. It goes beyond simply understanding the message; it involves analyzing the techniques and strategies used to convey that message effectively. This includes looking at the use of ethos, or credibility; pathos, or emotional appeal; and logos, or logical reasoning. By breaking down these elements, a rhetorical analysis seeks to understand the effectiveness of the communication and how it achieves its intended purpose.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Topic

Choosing the right topic is crucial. A well-chosen topic not only makes your writing process smoother but also engages your readers from the get-go. You want something that has enough depth for analysis, but not so obscure that you can’t find sources or examples. The following list of rhetorical analysis essay topics in 2024 offers a wide range of options, ensuring that you can find a topic that interests you and meets your assignment’s requirements.

Literary Works: Classic and Contemporary

• The Use of Rhetoric in George Orwell’s “1984”
• Persuasive Techniques in Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird”
• Rhetorical Strategies in Margaret Atwood’s “The Handmaid’s Tale”
• Analyzing the Use of Irony in Mark Twain’s “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn”
• The Role of Pathos in Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein”
• How Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar” Employs Rhetoric to Influence the Audience
• The Use of Symbolism in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby”
• Rhetorical Analysis of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s “We Should All Be Feminists”

Literary works often provide a rich ground for rhetorical analysis because of the intricate ways in which authors weave their arguments. Whether it’s classic literature or contemporary works, analyzing these texts helps you understand how authors have historically used rhetoric to influence societal perspectives.

Political Speeches: Power of Persuasion

• The Rhetoric of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” Speech
• Barack Obama’s 2008 Victory Speech: A Rhetorical Analysis
• The Persuasive Techniques in Winston Churchill’s “We Shall Fight on the Beaches” Speech
• Analyzing the Use of Ethos in John F. Kennedy’s Inaugural Address
• The Role of Logos in Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address
• How Rhetoric Shaped Donald Trump’s Presidential Campaign Speeches
• Rhetorical Strategies in Greta Thunberg’s Climate Change Speeches
• The Impact of Pathos in Nelson Mandela’s “I Am Prepared to Die” Speech

Political speeches are gold mines for rhetorical analysis. These speeches are crafted to influence, motivate, and sometimes manipulate public opinion. Analyzing these can provide deep insights into how leaders shape narratives and rally support.

Advertising Campaigns: Selling Through Words

• Nike’s “Just Do It” Campaign: A Rhetorical Analysis
• The Use of Pathos in Coca-Cola’s “Share a Coke” Campaign
• Analyzing Ethos in Apple’s “Think Different” Ads
• The Rhetorical Strategies Behind Dove’s “Real Beauty” Campaign
• How Fear Appeals are Used in Anti-Smoking Ads
• Persuasion in Political Campaign Advertisements
• The Role of Humor in Old Spice’s “The Man Your Man Could Smell Like” Campaign
• The Use of Rhetoric in Social Awareness Campaigns like “Stop the Spread”

Advertising is all about persuasion. Companies spend millions to craft messages that resonate with their audience, and rhetorical analysis can peel back the layers to reveal how these campaigns influence consumer behavior.

Analyzing Modern Media: Films, TV Shows, and Music

Film and television.

• The Rhetoric of Heroism in Marvel’s “The Avengers”
• Analyzing the Use of Rhetoric in “Breaking Bad”
• How “The Handmaid’s Tale” TV Series Uses Rhetoric to Highlight Gender Inequality
• The Persuasive Techniques in Netflix’s “13th”
• Rhetorical Analysis of Jordan Peele’s “Get Out”
• The Use of Pathos in Pixar’s “Up”
• Analyzing Rhetorical Devices in HBO’s “Game of Thrones”
• The Role of Ethos in “Schindler’s List”

Music and Lyrics

• The Rhetoric of Protest in Bob Dylan’s “The Times They Are A-Changin’”
• Analyzing Pathos in Adele’s “Someone Like You”
• The Use of Logos in Kendrick Lamar’s “Alright”
• How Beyoncé’s “Formation” Employs Ethos to Empower
• The Persuasive Power of Lyrics in John Lennon’s “Imagine”
• Rhetorical Analysis of Taylor Swift’s “Blank Space”
• The Role of Repetition in Queen’s “We Will Rock You”
• The Use of Symbolism in Pink Floyd’s “Another Brick in the Wall”

Modern media, whether films, TV shows, or music, is a reflection of the society we live in. Analyzing the rhetoric in these mediums not only deepens your understanding of the content but also helps you appreciate the subtle ways in which messages are conveyed.

Rhetoric in Social Media: The Digital Influence

• The Rhetorical Power of Memes in Political Campaigns
• How Influencers Use Rhetoric to Build Their Brand on Instagram
• Analyzing the Rhetoric of Cancel Culture on Twitter
• The Persuasive Techniques in Viral TikTok Trends
• The Role of Pathos in Mental Health Advocacy on Social Media
• Rhetorical Strategies in Facebook’s Data Privacy Communications
• The Use of Ethos in LinkedIn Professional Branding
• How Rhetoric Shapes Public Perception in Online Debates

Social media has revolutionized the way we communicate, and with it, the way rhetoric is used. Whether it’s a viral tweet or a YouTube video, rhetorical analysis can uncover the persuasive tactics that define the digital age.

Public Discourse: Shaping Society

• The Rhetoric of Fear in Post-9/11 Political Speeches
• Analyzing Ethos in the Me Too Movement’s Public Statements
• The Role of Logos in the Gun Control Debate in America
• Rhetorical Strategies in the Pro-Life vs. Pro-Choice Argument
• The Persuasive Techniques in Environmental Activism Speeches
• How Rhetoric Shapes Public Perception in Immigration Reform Debates
• Analyzing the Use of Pathos in Campaigns Against Human Trafficking
• The Rhetoric of Anti-Vaccination Movements on Social Media
• Persuasive Strategies in the LGBTQ+ Rights Movement
• The Impact of Rhetoric in the Black Lives Matter Movement’s Messaging

Public discourse plays a significant role in shaping societal beliefs and actions. Analyzing the rhetoric used in these discussions reveals how language can mobilize, polarize, and inspire change. By examining these topics, students can gain insight into the power of words in public arenas and their role in societal transformations.

Business and Corporate Communications: The Language of Commerce

• Analyzing the Rhetoric in Amazon’s Corporate Social Responsibility Reports
• The Use of Ethos in Apple’s Product Launch Presentations
• Persuasive Techniques in Nike’s Social Justice Advertising
• How Rhetoric is Used in Tesla’s Earnings Calls
• The Role of Logos in Corporate Apologies after Scandals
• Rhetorical Strategies in Coca-Cola’s Global Advertising Campaigns
• Analyzing Pathos in Charity Appeals by Large Corporations
• The Rhetoric of Inclusivity in Fortune 500 Companies’ Diversity Statements
• The Impact of Rhetoric in Anti-Smoking Campaigns by Big Tobacco
• Persuasive Techniques in Pharmaceutical Industry Advertising

Corporate communications are carefully crafted to influence public perception, consumer behavior, and shareholder confidence. By analyzing the rhetoric in business contexts, students can understand how companies use language to build brand loyalty, manage crises, and navigate the competitive market.

Cultural Movements: The Power of Collective Voice

• Analyzing the Rhetoric in the Feminist Movement’s Key Texts
• The Use of Ethos in the Civil Rights Movement’s Leadership Speeches
• Rhetorical Strategies in the Gay Rights Movement’s Historic Campaigns
• The Role of Pathos in the Anti-Apartheid Movement
• Persuasive Techniques in the Native American Rights Movement
• Analyzing Logos in the Disability Rights Movement’s Advocacy
• The Rhetoric of Solidarity in the Labor Union Movement
• The Impact of Rhetoric in the Anti-War Movement during the Vietnam Era
• Persuasive Strategies in the Global Human Rights Movement
• The Role of Social Media Rhetoric in the Arab Spring

Cultural movements are often driven by powerful rhetoric that rallies support and fosters a sense of unity. Analyzing these movements offers valuable insights into how language can drive social change and empower marginalized communities to voice their demands.

Education and Academia: Rhetoric in Learning

• The Use of Rhetoric in Educational Policy Debates
• Analyzing Ethos in University Commencement Speeches
• Persuasive Techniques in the Debate Over Standardized Testing
• How Rhetoric Shapes Public Opinion on Charter Schools
• The Role of Pathos in Advocating for Higher Education Funding
• Rhetorical Strategies in the Fight for Free College Tuition
• Analyzing the Use of Logos in Academic Research Presentations
• The Rhetoric of Inclusivity in Diversity and Inclusion Statements
• Persuasive Techniques in Promoting STEM Education
• The Impact of Rhetoric in the Debate Over Student Loan Forgiveness

Education and academia are fertile grounds for rhetorical analysis, as debates over policy, funding, and access to education often hinge on the effective use of language. By examining these topics, students can explore how rhetoric is used to advocate for educational reforms and shape public discourse around learning.

Health and Medicine: Persuasion in Public Health

• The Rhetoric of Fear in Anti-Smoking Campaigns
• Analyzing Pathos in Public Health Campaigns Against Obesity
• The Role of Ethos in Vaccine Promotion Efforts
• Persuasive Strategies in Anti-Drug Campaigns
• How Rhetoric Shapes Public Perception of Mental Health Issues
• The Use of Logos in Debates Over Universal Healthcare
• Analyzing the Rhetoric of Pro-Choice vs. Pro-Life in Reproductive Health
• The Impact of Rhetoric in Anti-AIDS Campaigns in the 1980s
• Persuasive Techniques in Government Health Warnings on Tobacco Products
• The Rhetoric of Wellness in Alternative Medicine Promotions

Tips for Writing Your Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

Writing a rhetorical analysis essay doesn’t have to be daunting. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Choose a Topic You’re Passionate About: If you’re interested in the topic, it’ll be easier to write and more engaging for your readers.
• Identify the Rhetorical Strategies Used: Look for examples of ethos, pathos, and logos, and analyze how effective they are.
• Support Your Analysis with Examples: Always back up your points with evidence from the text, speech, or media you’re analyzing.
• Keep Your Audience in Mind: Consider who will be reading your essay and tailor your analysis to their interests and knowledge level.
• Revise and Edit: Always leave time to go back and refine your essay. A polished essay will make a stronger impression.

Finding the right rhetorical analysis essay topic is the first step towards crafting a compelling essay. Whether you’re analyzing a classic novel, a modern film, or a political speech, the key is to dig deep and uncover the persuasive techniques at play. With the topics listed above, you’re well on your way to writing an essay that not only meets your academic requirements but also engages and enlightens your readers. Happy writing!

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IELTS Speaking Part 1: Types, Commonly Asked Topics & Tips

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“Prepare to impress in IELTS Speaking Part 1 with this 2024 edition guide. Explore the structure, common questions, and detailed expert strategies. “

In this blog, we'll dive deep into the nuances of IELTS Speaking Part 1, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of what to expect and how to prepare effectively, from exploring the types of questions to sharing valuable tips and addressing the crucial parts of the IELTS Speaking test.

What is IELTS Speaking Part 1?

IELTS Speaking Part 1, also known as the "Interview" section, is the first part of the IELTS Speaking test. In this section, the examiner will ask you a series of questions about familiar topics related to your personal life, interests, and experiences. The format is relatively straightforward: you will engage in a short conversation with the examiner, who will ask you questions and expect you to provide comprehensive yet concise responses.

Know about the ‘ Introduction to IELTS Speaking. ’

Types of Questions in IELTS Speaking Part 1

Before we jump right into the topics and questions, it's essential to understand the different types of part 1 speaking questions. The questions can be broadly categorized into the following:

Open-ended questions

These questions require you to provide detailed responses, allowing you to showcase your ability to express yourself fluently and coherently.

Follow-up questions

Based on your initial response, the examiner may ask follow-up questions to probe further or clarify certain points.

Situational questions

These questions may present hypothetical scenarios or situations, requiring you to express your thoughts and opinions.

Here are two helpful interview videos that provide an overview of the IELTS Speaking Part 1:

• IELTS Speaking Practice Test 2024 | BAND 7.0 | FULL IELTS Speaking Interview 2024
• IELTS Speaking Practice Test 2024 | BAND 6.0 | FULL IELTS Speaking Interview

Commonly Asked IELTS Speaking Topics Part 1

In IELTS Speaking Part 1, the questions typically revolve around familiar topics related to your personal life, hobbies, and interests.

Below listed are some of the commonly asked IELTS speaking topics of part 1:

Work and Study

• Your job or studies
• Your typical day
• Your future plans
• Skills and qualifications

Home and Family

• Your family members
• Your living situation
• Household chores and responsibilities
• Childhood memories

Hobbies and Interests

• Sports and activities you enjoy
• Books, movies, or TV shows you like
• Music preferences
• Travel experiences

Daily Life and Routines

• Your morning routine
• Eating habits and food preferences
• Weekend activities
• Transportation and commuting

Remember, these topics serve as a general guide, and the actual questions may vary depending on your specific context and the examiner's approach.

Explore the numerous topics in Speaking Part 1. First impressions count. Don’t miss out on creating your best impression. Do practice these questions -  Speaking Part 1 Topics

Do you panic when you introduce yourself or when someone asks you a question about your habits and lifestyle? Do take a look at them and boost your confidence -  Band 8 Sample Answers

Tips for Nailing IELTS Speaking Part 1 in 2024

To excel in part 1 speaking questions, it's essential to be well-prepared and adopt effective strategies. Here are some tips to help you succeed:

• Practice speaking fluently

Example: Engage in regular conversations with friends or join an English-speaking club to build confidence and fluency.

• Expand your vocabulary

Example: Read extensively, listen to English audio/video materials, and learn new words in context to enhance your lexical range.

• Provide detailed responses

Example: When asked about your hobbies, don't just say "I like reading." Instead, elaborate on the types of books you enjoy, your favorite authors, and why you find reading fulfilling.

• Stay relevant

Example: While it's essential to provide comprehensive responses, ensure that your answers remain relevant to the question asked.

• Maintain a positive attitude

Example: Approach the test with confidence and a friendly demeanor. Remember, the examiner is evaluating your English proficiency, not your personality.

• Use appropriate body language and eye contact

Example: Maintain eye contact with the examiner, nod to show understanding, and use natural gestures to enhance your communication.

• Clarify if needed

Example: If you don't understand a question, politely ask the examiner to repeat or rephrase it.

• Manage your time effectively

Example: Be mindful of the time and avoid prolonged pauses or rambling, as this may negatively impact your fluency score.

• Practice with sample questions

Example: Familiarize yourself with sample questions and practice responding to them within the time constraints.

• Stay calm and focused

Example: If you stumble or make a mistake, don't dwell on it. Maintain your composure and move on to the next question.

IELTS Speaking Part 1 Questions and Answers - Topics

So here is the list of topics for IELTS speaking part 1 questions and answers:

• Topic: advertisements
• Topic: bags
• Topic: Celebrities
• Topic: Chocolate
• Topic: cooking food
• Topic: dream
• Topic: flowers
• Topic: hats
• Topic: holidays
• Topic: hometown
• Topic: House
• Topic: jobs
• Topic: mirrors
• Topic: noise
• Topic: politeness
• Topic: public transport
• Topic: Study
• Topic: Walking
• Topic: sports
• Topic: rain with
• Topic: teachers
• Topic: Birds
• Topic: bringing things
• Topic: dreams
• Topic: drinking water with
• Topic: Fashion
• Topic: food
• Topic: handwriting
• Topic: holiday
• Topic: jewellery
• Topic: leisure time
• Topic: names
• Topic: patience
• Topic: Photography
• Topic: rain
• Topic: robots
• Topic: Television
• Topic: toys
• Topic: weather
• Topic: reading

IELTS Speaking Part 1 Questions with Band 9 Sample Answers

Below are the links to score Band 9 in Speaking Part 1 with sample answers.

• Topic: Music
• Topic: travel festival
• Topic: accommodation
• Topic: travel
• Topic: running
• Topic: makeup
• Topic: street markets
• Topic: alone
• Topic: efficiency
• Topic: Morning
• Topic: physical exercise
• Topic: Dance
• Topic: shoes
• Topic: Sleep
• Topic: parks and public gardens
• Topic: animals pets
• Topic: City
• Topic: crowded places
• Topic: neighbors
• Topic: Pollution
• Topic: sharing
• Topic: sunglasses
• Topic: Swimming
• Topic: tea coffee
• Topic: housework
• Topic: film movie
• Topic: social network
• Topic: rubbish garbage

Get Our ‘Speaking Book’ to Prepare For Your Interview in a Better Way

-  Buy Now !

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking Part 1 is to be well-prepared, confident, and able to communicate effectively in English. With dedicated practice and the right strategies, you can ace this section and increase your chances of achieving your desired IELTS score.

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Guest Essay

Only the First Amendment Can Protect Students, Campuses and Speech

By Cass R. Sunstein

Mr. Sunstein is a law professor at Harvard and the author of “Campus Free Speech: A Pocket Guide.”

Last spring, protests at numerous American universities, prompted by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, produced fierce debates over freedom of speech on campus.

Colleges and universities struggled mightily over how to mount an appropriate response. The University of Pennsylvania refused to allow a screening of a movie that was sharply critical of Israel. Brandeis University barred a pro-Palestinian student group in response to inflammatory statements made by its national chapter.

At Columbia, police officers arrested more than 100 students in an effort to empty the school’s pro-Palestinian encampment; classes were later moved online . But at Northwestern, the administration entered into a deal with protesters in which almost all of their tents were removed in return for multiple commitments by the university, including an agreement to provide the “full cost of attendance for five Palestinian undergraduates to attend Northwestern for the duration of their undergraduate careers.”

There have been intense debates about whether antisemitic speech, as such, should be banned on campus and about the right definition of antisemitic speech. With the new academic year starting alongside a looming presidential election, we can expect protest activity on a host of issues, raising fresh questions about free speech on campus.

To answer those questions, we should turn to the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which states that Congress “shall make no law … abridging the freedom of speech.” Those words provide the right foundation for forging a new consensus about the scope and importance of free speech in higher education.

As a rallying cry, that consensus should endorse the greatest sentence ever written by a Supreme Court justice. In 1943, Justice Robert H. Jackson wrote , “Compulsory unification of opinion achieves only the unanimity of the graveyard.”

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The Harris-Trump debate will be a clash of speaking styles

Johnson, our language columnist, assesses their effectiveness in charts.

W HEN DONALD TRUMP and Kamala Harris debate for the first time on September 10th, two very different speaking styles will be on display. Mr Trump talks and talks . His speech at the Republican National Convention, in July, was reportedly scripted to last 40 minutes. It was supposed to reinvent him as the unifier of a polarised country mere days after he had survived an assassination attempt. Instead he extemporised heavily, going on the attack so energetically that the few “unifier” bits were quickly forgotten. And he delivered the longest nomination-acceptance speech at a convention in modern history, at 92 minutes. Ms Harris, by contrast, spoke for just 38 minutes at the Democratic convention last month.

The two differ in another way: Mr Trump crammed an average of 128 words into each minute of his time on the podium (including pauses and breaks for applause). Ms Harris managed just 97, meaning that Mr Trump got in 3.4 times as many words as she did. That is consistent with their performances in unscripted situations. Mark Liberman, a linguist at the University of Pennsylvania, has calculated that Mr Trump spoke at a rate of 189 words per minute at a recent rally (in which the candidate extolled his own practice of “the weave”: shifting seemingly at random between disparate topics but, at least in his own view, brilliantly bringing them together). Excluding pauses, Mr Trump spoke at an even brisker 234.5 words per minute.

Ms Harris is the more considered speaker. In her one-on-one debate in 2020 with Mike Pence, the then vice-president, she uttered about 17% fewer words than Mr Pence, despite speaking for almost exactly the same amount of time. She carefully controlled his interruptions with “Mr Vice-President, I’m speaking”. When she had the floor, she often seemed to be back in her old job as a prosecutor, methodically making her case against the Trump administration.

The variety of their vocabulary differs, too. By Mr Liberman’s calculations, Mr Trump uses unusually few distinct (ie, different) words when speaking—fewer, in fact, than almost any other public figure he has analysed. In the debates in 2020 it took Mr Trump around 6,000 words to use 1,000 distinct words. Mr Biden, Ms Harris and Mr Pence reached that mark somewhere between 4,000 and 5,000 words. This tallies with Mr Liberman’s analysis, for example, of the Republican and Democratic primary debates in 2015, where Mr Trump again used the fewest distinct words per total spoken (Ted Cruz, a senator from Texas, used the most).

Mr Trump’s failure to flash hundred-dollar words should not be automatically equated with linguistic cluelessness. His rally speeches lose nearly all of their coherence when transcribed. But as live performances they have often held his audience spellbound. He repeats himself—often over and over—as befits someone who has made a career as a promoter. That, plus using words that everyone knows and uses frequently, helps his messages stick. Remember “we are going to build a wall and Mexico is going to pay for it”? A big vocabulary may be good for Scrabble, but Mr Trump’s rhetorical style is good at getting his point across. It helped make him president once, and could do so again. ■

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Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

205 Controversial Topics for your Essay, Speech, or Debate

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

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

What makes issues like this so engaging?

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

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

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

In this article:

Political Debate Topics

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

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

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

Interesting Controversial Topics by Field

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top 5 Extraordinary Motivational Speakers

130 Awesome Speech Topics for Kids

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

Which is better, Chicago pizza or New York pizza?

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

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

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

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

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

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