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99 of the Most Controversial Research Paper Topics (Controversial Yet Interesting)

Ignite debates with thought-provoking content! Explore controversial research paper topics for compelling discussions and academic exploration.

Feb 20, 2024

woman holding a large book - Controversial Research Paper Topics

Dive into a world of contentious debates and thought-provoking discussions with a deep look at controversial research paper topics. From exploring ethical dilemmas to dissecting societal taboos, this blog will navigate the intricate landscape of controversial subjects, shedding light on research paper structure while captivating your intellectual curiosity. Join us as we unravel the complexities of these contentious issues and challenge the norms of traditional research. Let's embark on a journey of exploration and critical analysis together.

Table of Contents

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man in library looking for Controversial Research Paper Topics

1. Stimulates Critical Thinking and Debates

Controversial research paper topics have the unique ability to spark intense debates and discussions among researchers, academics, and the general public. These topics often challenge preconceived notions and push individuals to think critically, analyze different perspectives, and defend their own viewpoints. The intellectual stimulation that arises from debating controversial issues can lead to groundbreaking insights and innovative solutions.

2. Encourages Exploration of Taboo Subjects

Controversial research paper topics often touch upon taboo subjects that are considered sensitive or off-limits in mainstream discourse. By delving into these contentious areas, researchers have the opportunity to explore uncharted territories , challenge societal norms, and shed light on marginalized voices. This exploration can lead to a deeper understanding of complex issues and contribute to social progress and change.

3. Drives Innovation and Creativity

The inherent controversy surrounding these research paper topics pushes researchers to think outside the box, question traditional beliefs, and come up with novel approaches to address challenging issues. This drive for innovation and creativity can lead to the development of groundbreaking theories, methodologies, and solutions that have the potential to revolutionize the field of study and have a lasting impact on society.

4. Captures Public Attention and Interest

Controversial research paper topics have a certain allure that captures the attention and interest of a wide audience. These topics often deal with pressing social, political, and ethical issues that resonate with people on a personal level. As a result, research papers on controversial topics have the potential to reach a larger audience, generate public discourse, and raise awareness about important issues that might otherwise be overlooked.

5. Fosters Resilience and Intellectual Courage

Engaging with controversial research paper topics requires a certain level of resilience and intellectual courage. Researchers must be willing to confront uncomfortable truths, challenge prevailing beliefs, and navigate potential backlash or criticism. By tackling controversial subjects head-on, researchers can develop a greater sense of resilience, strengthen their analytical skills, and cultivate the intellectual courage necessary to push boundaries and pursue innovative research agendas.

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a note taking book - Controversial Research Paper Topics

1. Genetic modification of embryos: Ethical implications and future considerations

Exploring the ethical dilemmas surrounding the genetic modification of embryos and the potential impact on future generations.

2. Mandatory vaccinations: Balancing public health and individual rights

Investigating the debate on mandatory vaccinations to prevent the spread of contagious diseases while respecting personal freedoms.

3. Climate change denial: The science, the skeptics, and the consequences

Examining the arguments of climate change deniers, the scientific consensus, and the potential consequences of inaction.

4. Artificial intelligence: Enhancing society or posing a threat to humanity?

Delving into the benefits and risks of artificial intelligence in various aspects of society and its potential impact on humanity.

5. Legalizing euthanasia: Compassion or moral dilemma?

Analyzing the arguments for and against legalizing euthanasia, considering the ethical and moral implications.

6. Gun control: Striking a balance between safety and Second Amendment rights

Exploring the contentious issue of gun control, addressing public safety concerns while upholding constitutional rights.

7. Animal testing: Scientific necessity or ethical concern?

Examining the use of animals in scientific research, weighing the benefits of medical advancement against animal welfare concerns.

8. Capital punishment: Just retribution or inhumane practice?

Discussing the arguments surrounding the death penalty, including its deterrent effect, justice for victims, and ethical considerations.

9. Nuclear energy: Sustainable solution or environmental risk?

Investigating the role of nuclear energy in the quest for sustainable power sources and its potential environmental impact.

10. Gender identity: Biological reality vs. self-perception

Exploring the complexity of gender identity, including biological, social, and personal factors that influence one's sense of self.

11. Online privacy: Balancing security with individual freedom

Analyzing the tension between protecting online privacy and the need for security measures in the digital age.

12. Legalization of prostitution: Empowerment or exploitation?

Examining the arguments for and against legalizing prostitution, considering the impact on sex workers and society.

13. Cloning: Scientific advancement or ethical dilemma?

Delving into the science and ethics of cloning, including its potential benefits and the moral implications of cloning humans.

14. Cultural appropriation: Appreciation or exploitation?

Discussing the fine line between cultural appreciation and appropriation, considering power dynamics and historical contexts.

15. Universal basic income: Addressing inequality or encouraging dependency?

Exploring the concept of universal basic income as a solution to economic disparities and its potential societal implications.

16. Genetically modified organisms (GMOs): Feeding the world or endangering health?

Investigating the controversy surrounding GMOs, including their role in food production, safety concerns, and environmental impact.

17. Social media influence: Empowering or manipulating society?

Analyzing the influence of social media on individuals and society, including its role in shaping opinions and behaviors.

18. Cyberbullying: The dark side of online interactions

Exploring the prevalence and impact of cyberbullying on mental health and well-being, and strategies for prevention.

19. Art censorship: Preserving morals or stifling creativity?

Discussing the debate on art censorship, considering cultural sensitivities, freedom of expression, and artistic integrity.

20. The obesity epidemic: Personal responsibility or societal problem?

Examining the factors contributing to the obesity epidemic, including lifestyle choices, food environment, and public health policies.

21. Renewable energy sources: Transitioning towards a sustainable future

Investigating the potential of renewable energy sources to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change.

22. Racial profiling: Law enforcement tool or civil rights violation?

Analyzing the practice of racial profiling, its impact on marginalized communities, and efforts to address systemic bias.

23. The privacy vs. security debate: Striking a balance in the digital age

Exploring the trade-offs between privacy rights and national security concerns, especially in the context of technological advancements.

24. The future of work: Automation, AI, and the changing labor landscape

Discussing the impact of automation and artificial intelligence on the workforce, including job displacement and skills training.

25. Body modification: Self-expression or societal taboo?

Examining the motivations behind body modifications, including tattoos, piercings, and cosmetic surgeries, and societal perceptions.

26. Educational inequality: Addressing disparities in access and quality

Investigating the factors contributing to educational inequality, including funding disparities, systemic barriers, and solutions for reform.

27. Medical marijuana: Healing herb or gateway drug?

Exploring the therapeutic potential of medical marijuana , its legal status, and the debate on its recreational use.

28. Sustainable agriculture: Balancing productivity with environmental stewardship

Discussing sustainable farming practices that promote food security while minimizing environmental impact and preserving natural resources.

29. Cybersecurity threats: Protecting data in the digital age

Analyzing the evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats, including hacking, identity theft, and data breaches, and strategies for protection.

30. Animal rights activism: Advocacy for ethical treatment or extremist ideology?

Examining the motivations and tactics of animal rights activists, legal protections for animals, and ethical considerations in animal welfare.

31. The role of media in shaping public opinion: Informative tool or propaganda machine?

Discussing the influence of media outlets on public perception, including bias, misinformation, and the importance of critical thinking.

32. Immigration policies: National security or human rights concern?

Exploring the complexities of immigration policies , including border control, refugee rights, and the socio-economic impact of migration.

33. Gender pay gap: Workplace inequality and the fight for equal pay

Investigating the disparities in wages based on gender, factors contributing to the gender pay gap, and strategies for achieving pay equity.

34. Mental health stigma: Breaking the silence and promoting understanding

Discussing the stigma surrounding mental health issues, misconceptions, and the importance of destigmatizing mental illness.

35. Space exploration: Inspiring innovation or wasteful expenditure?

Exploring the benefits of space exploration in scientific advancement, technological innovation, and the ethical considerations of space travel.

36. Internet censorship: Protecting society or stifling free speech?

Analyzing the implications of internet censorship on freedom of expression, access to information, and government control of online content.

37. Cultural diversity in the workplace: Promoting inclusivity or tokenism?

Examining the importance of cultural diversity in the workplace, challenges faced by diverse employees, and best practices for fostering inclusivity.

38. Autonomous vehicles: Revolutionizing transportation or safety risk?

Discussing the potential of self-driving cars to improve road safety, reduce traffic congestion, and ethical considerations in autonomous vehicle technology.

39. Gender stereotypes in media: Reinforcing norms or challenging perceptions?

Investigating the portrayal of gender stereotypes in media, its impact on society, and efforts to promote gender equality in media representation.

40. Food insecurity: Hunger in a world of abundance

Exploring the root causes of food insecurity, including poverty, conflict, and climate change, and solutions to address global hunger.

41. The ethics of whistleblowing: Exposing truth or breaching trust?

Discussing the moral dilemmas faced by whistleblowers, the impact of whistleblowing on organizations, and legal protections for whistleblowers.

42. Alternative medicine: Holistic healing or pseudoscience?

Examining the efficacy of alternative medicine practices, including acupuncture, herbal remedies, and homeopathy, and the debate on their scientific basis.

43. Body image and the media: Unrealistic standards and mental health

Analyzing the influence of media on body image perceptions, the prevalence of body dysmorphia, and strategies for promoting positive self-esteem.

44. Plastic pollution: A global environmental crisis

Investigating the impact of plastic pollution on marine ecosystems, human health, and efforts to reduce plastic waste through recycling and regulation.

45. Animal testing in cosmetics: Beauty at the cost of cruelty?

Discussing the controversy surrounding animal testing in the cosmetics industry, ethical alternatives, and consumer awareness of cruelty-free products.

46. Nuclear disarmament: A world free of nuclear weapons?

Exploring the challenges and benefits of nuclear disarmament, global security implications, and diplomatic efforts towards nuclear non-proliferation.

47. Climate engineering: Geoengineering solutions for climate change

Investigating the feasibility and ethical implications of climate engineering technologies, such as solar radiation management and carbon capture.

48. The impact of social media on mental health: Connection or isolation?

Discussing the effects of social media on mental well-being, including cyberbullying, FOMO, and strategies for promoting positive online interactions.

49. Water scarcity: Managing a precious resource

Exploring the global water crisis, sustainable water management practices, and the socio-economic impact of water scarcity on communities.

50. Universal healthcare: Ensuring access to healthcare for all

Discussing the benefits and challenges of implementing universal healthcare systems, including funding, quality of care, and equity in healthcare access.

51. Sweatshop labor: Exploitation in the global supply chain

Analyzing the ethical issues of sweatshop labor, corporate responsibility, and efforts to improve working conditions and wages for garment workers.

52. The impact of globalization on culture: Homogenization or diversity?

Examining the cultural consequences of globalization, including the spread of Western values, cultural exchange, and the preservation of cultural heritage.

53. Genocide prevention: Learning from history to protect human rights

Discussing the role of international law , humanitarian intervention, and early warning systems in preventing genocides and mass atrocities.

54. Data privacy in the age of surveillance: Protecting personal information

Exploring the implications of data collection and surveillance on privacy rights, data breaches, and the need for data protection regulations.

55. Drug legalization: Addressing the war on drugs

Investigating the arguments for legalizing drugs, including marijuana, psychedelics, and the impact of drug policies on public health and criminal justice.

56. Artificial intelligence in warfare: Autonomous weapons and ethical concerns

Discussing the use of AI in military technology, including autonomous drones, cyber warfare, and the ethical considerations of AI in armed conflict.

57. Police brutality: Accountability and reform in law enforcement

Analyzing cases of police violence, racial bias in policing, and efforts to promote accountability, community policing, and reforms in law enforcement.

58. The ethics of animal experimentation: Balancing scientific progress and animal welfare

Examining the ethical considerations of using animals in research, alternatives to animal testing, and regulations to ensure humane treatment.

59. Bioethics in Healthcare: Navigating moral dilemmas in medical practice

Discussing ethical issues in healthcare, including patient autonomy, end-of-life care, genetic testing, and reproductive technologies.

60. GMO labeling: Informed consumer choice or unnecessary regulation?

Exploring the debate on labeling GMOs in food products, consumer rights to know, and the impact of GMO labeling on food industry practices.

61. Online hate speech: The limits of free expression

Investigating the rise of online hate speech, its impact on marginalized groups, legal implications, and strategies to combat hate speech online.

62. The future of democracy: Challenges and opportunities in a digital age

Discussing the impact of technology on democracy, including disinformation, social media influence, electoral integrity, and civic engagement.

63. Cyber warfare: The new frontier of conflict

Analyzing the threats posed by cyber warfare, including hacking, ransomware, and state-sponsored cyber attacks, and strategies for cybersecurity defense.

64. Workplace discrimination: Breaking barriers and promoting diversity

Examining the prevalence of workplace discrimination based on race, gender, age, and sexual orientation, and efforts to foster inclusive work environments.

65. The opioid epidemic: Addressing addiction and overdose crisis

Discussing the factors contributing to the opioid crisis, including overprescription, illicit drug trafficking, and strategies for prevention and treatment.

66. Surveillance capitalism: The commodification of personal data

Exploring the business model of surveillance capitalism, data collection practices by tech companies, and the implications for consumer privacy.

67. Online dating: Changing norms and social interactions

Investigating the impact of online dating on relationships, social dynamics, and the evolution of dating norms in the digital age.

68. Racial disparities in healthcare: Addressing inequities in access and treatment

Examining the racial inequalities in healthcare outcomes, disparities in access to care, and strategies to promote health equity among diverse populations.

69. The impact of technology on jobs: Automation and the future of work

Discussing the effects of automation and AI on the labor market, job displacement, reskilling programs, and the need for workforce adaptation.

70. Domestic violence: Breaking the cycle of abuse

Analyzing the prevalence of domestic violence, its impact on victims and families, and interventions for prevention, support, and legal protection.

71. The dark web: Unveiling the hidden layers of the internet

Exploring the anonymous and illicit activities on the dark web , including illegal markets, cybercrime, and the challenges of law enforcement in cyberspace.

72. Cultural heritage preservation: Safeguarding the past for the future

Investigating efforts to protect cultural heritage sites, artifacts, and traditions from destruction, looting, and the impact of urban development.

73. Mass incarceration: Reforms in the criminal justice system

Examining the causes and consequences of mass incarceration, racial disparities in sentencing, and initiatives for criminal justice reform and rehabilitation.

74. Genetic privacy: Regulating DNA data and bioinformatics

Discussing the privacy concerns related to genetic testing, DNA databases, and the ethical implications of sharing personal genetic information.

75. The impact of social media influencers: Marketing or manipulation?

Analyzing the influence of social media influencers on consumer behavior, advertising regulations, and the authenticity of influencer marketing.

76. Access to education for refugee children: Overcoming barriers to learning

Exploring the challenges faced by refugee children in accessing quality education, barriers to integration, and initiatives for refugee education support.

77. Workplace surveillance: Balancing security with employee privacy

Investigating the use of surveillance technologies in the workplace, employee monitoring practices, and the legal and ethical implications of workplace surveillance.

78. Cryptocurrency regulation: Navigating the digital financial landscape

Exploring the challenges of regulating cryptocurrencies, blockchain technology, and the implications for financial transactions, security, and legal frameworks.

79. Mental health treatment stigma: Breaking down barriers to care

Discussing the stigma surrounding mental health treatment, access to mental healthcare services, and destigmatization efforts to promote help-seeking behaviors.

80. The impact of social media on politics: Influence and disinformation

Analyzing the role of social media in political discourse, election campaigns, misinformation, and the regulation of political advertising online.

81. Human trafficking: Combating modern-day slavery

Examining the global issue of human trafficking, including sex trafficking, forced labor, and efforts to prevent trafficking, prosecute perpetrators, and protect victims.

82. Biohacking: DIY biology and ethical considerations

Investigating the biohacking movement, including DIY genetic engineering, body modifications, and the ethical implications of citizen science in biotechnology.

83. Gender-based violence: Addressing inequalities and promoting gender equality

Discussing the prevalence of gender-based violence, including domestic violence, sexual assault, and efforts to empower survivors, raise awareness, and enact legal protections.

84. The digital divide: Access to technology and internet connectivity

Exploring the disparities in access to technology, digital skills, and internet connectivity, and initiatives to bridge the digital divide and promote digital literacy.

85. The impact of social media on youth: Peer pressure and mental health

Analyzing the influence of social media on adolescent behavior, mental well-being, body image perceptions, and strategies for promoting positive online habits.

86. Workplace diversity programs: Fostering inclusion and equity

Examining the effectiveness of workplace diversity initiatives, including diversity training, recruitment practices, and the promotion of inclusive work environments.

87. Child labor: Exploitation and human rights violations

Discussing the prevalence of child labor, its impact on education, health, and development, and efforts to eliminate child labor through legislation and advocacy.

88. The ethics of brain-computer interfaces: Enhancing cognition or privacy concerns

Investigating the ethical considerations of brain-computer interface technology, its potential applications in healthcare, communication, and the implications for privacy and autonomy.

89. Social inequality in healthcare: Addressing disparities in access and outcomes

Examining the socio-economic factors contributing to healthcare inequality, including insurance coverage, healthcare affordability, and the impact on health disparities.

90. The future of privacy in a surveillance society: Protecting personal data

Exploring the challenges of protecting privacy rights in a surveillance society, digital tracking, data breaches, and the need for privacy regulations.

91. The impact of climate change on vulnerable communities: Environmental justice and adaptation

Analyzing the disproportionate impact of climate change on marginalized communities, including low-income neighborhoods, indigenous populations, and strategies for climate resilience and adaptation.

92. Social media addiction: The risks of excessive screen time

Investigating the addictive nature of social media, its impact on mental health, relationships, and strategies for digital detox and healthy technology use.

93. Sustainable fashion: Ethical practices and environmental impact

Discussing the environmental and social implications of fast fashion, sustainable fashion brands, ethical sourcing, and the circular economy in the fashion industry.

94. Workplace harassment: Creating a culture of respect and accountability

Examining the prevalence of workplace harassment , including sexual harassment, bullying, and efforts to prevent workplace misconduct, promote reporting mechanisms, and support victims.

95. The impact of artificial intelligence on creative industries: Innovation or job displacement

Analyzing the role of AI in creative fields, including art, music, writing, and the potential impact on creative expression, copyright laws, and employment in the arts.

96. Cultural assimilation vs. cultural preservation: Identity and diversity

Exploring the tensions between assimilation and preservation of cultural identities, traditions, languages, and the impact of globalization on cultural diversity.

97. Youth activism: Empowering the next generation of changemakers

Investigating the rise of youth-led movements, social activism among young people, and the impact of youth activism on policy change, social justice, and civic engagement.

98. Smart cities: Urban innovation and sustainable development

Discussing the concept of smart cities, IoT technology, data-driven urban planning, and the potential of smart infrastructure to enhance efficiency, safety, and quality of life in urban areas.

99. Workplace automation: Redefining job roles and skills

Analyzing the impact of automation on the workforce, job displacement, upskilling opportunities, and the future of work in an increasingly automated economy.

woman researching about Controversial Research Paper Topics

1. Choosing a Provocative Topic

Select a topic that is relevant, timely, and sparks debate. Addressing current societal issues or challenging conventional beliefs can make your research paper stand out and generate interest.

2. Thorough Background Research

Before diving into writing, ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of the topic. Familiarize yourself with various perspectives, existing studies, and key arguments to strengthen the credibility of your paper.

3. Compelling Introduction

Hook your readers from the start with a captivating introduction. Clearly define the issue at hand, present the significance of your research, and pose thought-provoking questions to engage your audience.

4. Structured and Logical Organization

Divide your paper into clear sections such as introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion. This structure will guide the reader through your arguments and findings in a coherent manner.

5. Incorporating Diverse Viewpoints

Acknowledge different perspectives on the controversial topic and present a balanced analysis . Address counterarguments respectfully while reinforcing your own stance with strong evidence and logical reasoning.

6. Data-driven Analysis

Support your claims with reliable data, statistics, case studies, and scholarly references. Using empirical evidence will enhance the credibility of your research paper and validate your arguments.

7. Engaging Writing Style

Write in a clear, concise, and engaging manner. Avoid jargon and complex language that may alienate readers. Use illustrative examples, anecdotes, and relatable scenarios to make your paper more accessible and impactful.

8. Ethical Considerations

Ensure that your research is conducted ethically and respects the rights and dignity of all individuals involved. Address any potential biases or conflicts of interest transparently to maintain the integrity of your study.

9. Impactful Conclusion

End your paper with a compelling conclusion that summarizes key findings, emphasizes the significance of your research, and suggests potential implications for the field. Leave the reader with lingering thoughts and a call to action.

10. Peer Review and Revision

Seek feedback from peers, mentors, or professors to refine your research paper. Be open to constructive criticism and revise your work diligently to enhance clarity, coherence, and overall quality. By following these guidelines, you can effectively structure a controversial research paper that captures the reader's attention, stimulates critical thinking, and contributes meaningfully to the academic discourse.

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130 New Prompts for Argumentative Writing

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

interesting controversial research topics

By The Learning Network

Note: We have an updated version of this list, with 300 new argumentative writing prompts .

What issues do you care most about? What topics do you find yourself discussing passionately, whether online, at the dinner table, in the classroom or with your friends?

In Unit 5 of our free yearlong writing curriculum and related Student Editorial Contest , we invite students to research and write about the issues that matter to them, whether that’s Shakespeare , health care , standardized testing or being messy .

But with so many possibilities, where does one even begin? Try our student writing prompts.

In 2017, we compiled a list of 401 argumentative writing prompts , all drawn from our daily Student Opinion column . Now, we’re rounding up 130 more we’ve published since then ( available here as a PDF ). Each prompt links to a free Times article as well as additional subquestions that can help you think more deeply about it.

You might use this list to inspire your own writing and to find links to reliable resources about the issues that intrigue you. But even if you’re not participating in our contest, you can use these prompts to practice the kind of low-stakes writing that can help you hone your argumentation skills.

So scroll through the list below with questions on everything from sports and mental health to dating and video games and see which ones inspire you to take a stand.

Please note: Many of these prompts are still open to comment by students 13 and up.

Technology & Social Media

1. Do Memes Make the Internet a Better Place? 2. Does Online Public Shaming Prevent Us From Being Able to Grow and Change? 3. How Young Is Too Young to Use Social Media? 4. Should the Adults in Your Life Be Worried by How Much You Use Your Phone? 5. Is Your Phone Love Hurting Your Relationships? 6. Should Kids Be Social Media Influencers? 7. Does Grammar Still Matter in the Age of Twitter? 8. Should Texting While Driving Be Treated Like Drunken Driving? 9. How Do You Think Technology Affects Dating?

10. Are Straight A’s Always a Good Thing? 11. Should Schools Teach You How to Be Happy? 12. How Do You Think American Education Could Be Improved? 13. Should Schools Test Their Students for Nicotine and Drug Use? 14. Can Social Media Be a Tool for Learning and Growth in Schools? 15. Should Facial Recognition Technology Be Used in Schools? 16. Should Your School Day Start Later? 17. How Should Senior Year in High School Be Spent? 18. Should Teachers Be Armed With Guns? 19. Is School a Place for Self-Expression? 20. Should Students Be Punished for Not Having Lunch Money? 21. Is Live-Streaming Classrooms a Good Idea? 22. Should Gifted and Talented Education Be Eliminated? 23. What Are the Most Important Things Students Should Learn in School? 24. Should Schools Be Allowed to Censor Student Newspapers? 25. Do You Feel Your School and Teachers Welcome Both Conservative and Liberal Points of View? 26. Should Teachers and Professors Ban Student Use of Laptops in Class? 27. Should Schools Teach About Climate Change? 28. Should All Schools Offer Music Programs? 29. Does Your School Need More Money? 30. Should All Schools Teach Cursive? 31. What Role Should Textbooks Play in Education? 32. Do Kids Need Recess?

College & Career

33. What Is Your Reaction to the College Admissions Cheating Scandal? 34. Is the College Admissions Process Fair? 35. Should Everyone Go to College? 36. Should College Be Free? 37. Are Lavish Amenities on College Campuses Useful or Frivolous? 38. Should ‘Despised Dissenters’ Be Allowed to Speak on College Campuses? 39. How Should the Problem of Sexual Assault on Campuses Be Addressed? 40. Should Fraternities Be Abolished? 41. Is Student Debt Worth It?

Mental & Physical Health

42. Should Students Get Mental Health Days Off From School? 43. Is Struggle Essential to Happiness? 44. Does Every Country Need a ‘Loneliness Minister’? 45. Should Schools Teach Mindfulness? 46. Should All Children Be Vaccinated? 47. What Do You Think About Vegetarianism? 48. Do We Worry Too Much About Germs? 49. What Advice Should Parents and Counselors Give Teenagers About Sexting? 50. Do You Think Porn Influences the Way Teenagers Think About Sex?

Race & Gender

51. How Should Parents Teach Their Children About Race and Racism? 52. Is America ‘Backsliding’ on Race? 53. Should All Americans Receive Anti-Bias Education? 54. Should All Companies Require Anti-Bias Training for Employees? 55. Should Columbus Day Be Replaced With Indigenous Peoples Day? 56. Is Fear of ‘The Other’ Poisoning Public Life? 57. Should the Boy Scouts Be Coed? 58. What Is Hard About Being a Boy?

59. Can You Separate Art From the Artist? 60. Are There Subjects That Should Be Off-Limits to Artists, or to Certain Artists in Particular? 61. Should Art Come With Trigger Warnings? 62. Should Graffiti Be Protected? 63. Is the Digital Era Improving or Ruining the Experience of Art? 64. Are Museums Still Important in the Digital Age? 65. In the Age of Digital Streaming, Are Movie Theaters Still Relevant? 66. Is Hollywood Becoming More Diverse? 67. What Stereotypical Characters Make You Cringe? 68. Do We Need More Female Superheroes? 69. Do Video Games Deserve the Bad Rap They Often Get? 70. Should Musicians Be Allowed to Copy or Borrow From Other Artists? 71. Is Listening to a Book Just as Good as Reading It? 72. Is There Any Benefit to Reading Books You Hate?

73. Should Girls and Boys Sports Teams Compete in the Same League? 74. Should College Athletes Be Paid? 75. Are Youth Sports Too Competitive? 76. Is It Selfish to Pursue Risky Sports Like Extreme Mountain Climbing? 77. How Should We Punish Sports Cheaters? 78. Should Technology in Sports Be Limited? 79. Should Blowouts Be Allowed in Youth Sports? 80. Is It Offensive for Sports Teams and Their Fans to Use Native American Names, Imagery and Gestures?

81. Is It Wrong to Focus on Animal Welfare When Humans Are Suffering? 82. Should Extinct Animals Be Resurrected? If So, Which Ones? 83. Are Emotional-Support Animals a Scam? 84. Is Animal Testing Ever Justified? 85. Should We Be Concerned With Where We Get Our Pets? 86. Is This Exhibit Animal Cruelty or Art?

Parenting & Childhood

87. Who Should Decide Whether a Teenager Can Get a Tattoo or Piercing? 88. Is It Harder to Grow Up in the 21st Century Than It Was in the Past? 89. Should Parents Track Their Teenager’s Location? 90. Is Childhood Today Over-Supervised? 91. How Should Parents Talk to Their Children About Drugs? 92. What Should We Call Your Generation? 93. Do Other People Care Too Much About Your Post-High School Plans? 94. Do Parents Ever Cross a Line by Helping Too Much With Schoolwork? 95. What’s the Best Way to Discipline Children? 96. What Are Your Thoughts on ‘Snowplow Parents’? 97. Should Stay-at-Home Parents Be Paid? 98. When Do You Become an Adult?

Ethics & Morality

99. Why Do Bystanders Sometimes Fail to Help When They See Someone in Danger? 100. Is It Ethical to Create Genetically Edited Humans? 101. Should Reporters Ever Help the People They Are Covering? 102. Is It O.K. to Use Family Connections to Get a Job? 103. Is $1 Billion Too Much Money for Any One Person to Have? 104. Are We Being Bad Citizens If We Don’t Keep Up With the News? 105. Should Prisons Offer Incarcerated People Education Opportunities? 106. Should Law Enforcement Be Able to Use DNA Data From Genealogy Websites for Criminal Investigations? 107. Should We Treat Robots Like People?

Government & Politics

108. Does the United States Owe Reparations to the Descendants of Enslaved People? 109. Do You Think It Is Important for Teenagers to Participate in Political Activism? 110. Should the Voting Age Be Lowered to 16? 111. What Should Lawmakers Do About Guns and Gun Violence? 112. Should Confederate Statues Be Removed or Remain in Place? 113. Does the U.S. Constitution Need an Equal Rights Amendment? 114. Should National Monuments Be Protected by the Government? 115. Should Free Speech Protections Include Self Expression That Discriminates? 116. How Important Is Freedom of the Press? 117. Should Ex-Felons Have the Right to Vote? 118. Should Marijuana Be Legal? 119. Should the United States Abolish Daylight Saving Time? 120. Should We Abolish the Death Penalty? 121. Should the U.S. Ban Military-Style Semiautomatic Weapons? 122. Should the U.S. Get Rid of the Electoral College? 123. What Do You Think of President Trump’s Use of Twitter? 124. Should Celebrities Weigh In on Politics? 125. Why Is It Important for People With Different Political Beliefs to Talk to Each Other?

Other Questions

126. Should the Week Be Four Days Instead of Five? 127. Should Public Transit Be Free? 128. How Important Is Knowing a Foreign Language? 129. Is There a ‘Right Way’ to Be a Tourist? 130. Should Your Significant Other Be Your Best Friend?

  • Humanities ›
  • Writing Essays ›

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
  • Tips on How to Write an Argumentative Essay
  • Complete List of Transition Words
  • 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
  • What an Essay Is and How to Write One
  • Personal Essay Topics
  • Ecology Essay Ideas

77 interesting medical research topics for 2024

Last updated

25 November 2023

Reviewed by

Brittany Ferri, PhD, OTR/L

Short on time? Get an AI generated summary of this article instead

Medical research is the gateway to improved patient care and expanding our available treatment options. However, finding a relevant and compelling research topic can be challenging.

Use this article as a jumping-off point to select an interesting medical research topic for your next paper or clinical study.

  • How to choose a medical research topic

When choosing a research topic , it’s essential to consider a couple of things. What topics interest you? What unanswered questions do you want to address? 

During the decision-making and brainstorming process, here are a few helpful tips to help you pick the right medical research topic:

Focus on a particular field of study

The best medical research is specific to a particular area. Generalized studies are often too broad to produce meaningful results, so we advise picking a specific niche early in the process. 

Maybe a certain topic interests you, or your industry knowledge reveals areas of need.

Look into commonly researched topics

Once you’ve chosen your research field, do some preliminary research. What have other academics done in their papers and projects? 

From this list, you can focus on specific topics that interest you without accidentally creating a copycat project. This groundwork will also help you uncover any literature gaps—those may be beneficial areas for research.

Get curious and ask questions

Now you can get curious. Ask questions that start with why, how, or what. These questions are the starting point of your project design and will act as your guiding light throughout the process. 

For example: 

What impact does pollution have on children’s lung function in inner-city neighborhoods? 

Why is pollution-based asthma on the rise? 

How can we address pollution-induced asthma in young children? 

  • 77 medical research topics worth exploring in 2023

Need some research inspiration for your upcoming paper or clinical study? We’ve compiled a list of 77 topical and in-demand medical research ideas. Let’s take a look. 

  • Exciting new medical research topics

If you want to study cutting-edge topics, here are some exciting options:

COVID-19 and long COVID symptoms

Since 2020, COVID-19 has been a hot-button topic in medicine, along with the long-term symptoms in those with a history of COVID-19. 

Examples of COVID-19-related research topics worth exploring include:

The long-term impact of COVID-19 on cardiac and respiratory health

COVID-19 vaccination rates

The evolution of COVID-19 symptoms over time

New variants and strains of the COVID-19 virus

Changes in social behavior and public health regulations amid COVID-19

Vaccinations

Finding ways to cure or reduce the disease burden of chronic infectious diseases is a crucial research area. Vaccination is a powerful option and a great topic to research. 

Examples of vaccination-related research topics include:

mRNA vaccines for viral infections

Biomaterial vaccination capabilities

Vaccination rates based on location, ethnicity, or age

Public opinion about vaccination safety 

Artificial tissues fabrication

With the need for donor organs increasing, finding ways to fabricate artificial bioactive tissues (and possibly organs) is a popular research area. 

Examples of artificial tissue-related research topics you can study include:

The viability of artificially printed tissues

Tissue substrate and building block material studies

The ethics and efficacy of artificial tissue creation

  • Medical research topics for medical students

For many medical students, research is a big driver for entering healthcare. If you’re a medical student looking for a research topic, here are some great ideas to work from:

Sleep disorders

Poor sleep quality is a growing problem, and it can significantly impact a person’s overall health. 

Examples of sleep disorder-related research topics include:

How stress affects sleep quality

The prevalence and impact of insomnia on patients with mental health conditions

Possible triggers for sleep disorder development

The impact of poor sleep quality on psychological and physical health

How melatonin supplements impact sleep quality

Alzheimer’s and dementia 

Cognitive conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are on the rise worldwide. They currently have no cure. As a result, research about these topics is in high demand. 

Examples of dementia-related research topics you could explore include:

The prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease in a chosen population

Early onset symptoms of dementia

Possible triggers or causes of cognitive decline with age

Treatment options for dementia-like conditions

The mental and physical burden of caregiving for patients with dementia

  • Lifestyle habits and public health

Modern lifestyles have profoundly impacted the average person’s daily habits, and plenty of interesting topics explore its effects. 

Examples of lifestyle and public health-related research topics include:

The nutritional intake of college students

The impact of chronic work stress on overall health

The rise of upper back and neck pain from laptop use

Prevalence and cause of repetitive strain injuries (RSI)

  • Controversial medical research paper topics

Medical research is a hotbed of controversial topics, content, and areas of study. 

If you want to explore a more niche (and attention-grabbing) concept, here are some controversial medical research topics worth looking into:

The benefits and risks of medical cannabis

Depending on where you live, the legalization and use of cannabis for medical conditions is controversial for the general public and healthcare providers.

Examples of medical cannabis-related research topics that might grab your attention include:

The legalization process of medical cannabis

The impact of cannabis use on developmental milestones in youth users

Cannabis and mental health diagnoses

CBD’s impact on chronic pain

Prevalence of cannabis use in young people

The impact of maternal cannabis use on fetal development 

Understanding how THC impacts cognitive function

Human genetics

The Human Genome Project identified, mapped, and sequenced all human DNA genes. Its completion in 2003 opened up a world of exciting and controversial studies in human genetics.

Examples of human genetics-related research topics worth delving into include:

Medical genetics and the incidence of genetic-based health disorders

Behavioral genetics differences between identical twins

Genetic risk factors for neurodegenerative disorders

Machine learning technologies for genetic research

Sexual health studies

Human sexuality and sexual health are important (yet often stigmatized) medical topics that need new research and analysis.

As a diverse field ranging from sexual orientation studies to sexual pathophysiology, examples of sexual health-related research topics include:

The incidence of sexually transmitted infections within a chosen population

Mental health conditions within the LGBTQIA+ community

The impact of untreated sexually transmitted infections

Access to safe sex resources (condoms, dental dams, etc.) in rural areas

  • Health and wellness research topics

Human wellness and health are trendy topics in modern medicine as more people are interested in finding natural ways to live healthier lifestyles. 

If this field of study interests you, here are some big topics in the wellness space:

Gluten sensitivity

Gluten allergies and intolerances have risen over the past few decades. If you’re interested in exploring this topic, your options range in severity from mild gastrointestinal symptoms to full-blown anaphylaxis. 

Some examples of gluten sensitivity-related research topics include:

The pathophysiology and incidence of Celiac disease

Early onset symptoms of gluten intolerance

The prevalence of gluten allergies within a set population

Gluten allergies and the incidence of other gastrointestinal health conditions

Pollution and lung health

Living in large urban cities means regular exposure to high levels of pollutants. 

As more people become interested in protecting their lung health, examples of impactful lung health and pollution-related research topics include:

The extent of pollution in densely packed urban areas

The prevalence of pollution-based asthma in a set population

Lung capacity and function in young people

The benefits and risks of steroid therapy for asthma

Pollution risks based on geographical location

Plant-based diets

Plant-based diets like vegan and paleo diets are emerging trends in healthcare due to their limited supporting research. 

If you’re interested in learning more about the potential benefits or risks of holistic, diet-based medicine, examples of plant-based diet research topics to explore include:

Vegan and plant-based diets as part of disease management

Potential risks and benefits of specific plant-based diets

Plant-based diets and their impact on body mass index

The effect of diet and lifestyle on chronic disease management

Health supplements

Supplements are a multi-billion dollar industry. Many health-conscious people take supplements, including vitamins, minerals, herbal medicine, and more. 

Examples of health supplement-related research topics worth investigating include:

Omega-3 fish oil safety and efficacy for cardiac patients

The benefits and risks of regular vitamin D supplementation

Health supplementation regulation and product quality

The impact of social influencer marketing on consumer supplement practices

Analyzing added ingredients in protein powders

  • Healthcare research topics

Working within the healthcare industry means you have insider knowledge and opportunity. Maybe you’d like to research the overall system, administration, and inherent biases that disrupt access to quality care. 

While these topics are essential to explore, it is important to note that these studies usually require approval and oversight from an Institutional Review Board (IRB). This ensures the study is ethical and does not harm any subjects. 

For this reason, the IRB sets protocols that require additional planning, so consider this when mapping out your study’s timeline. 

Here are some examples of trending healthcare research areas worth pursuing:

The pros and cons of electronic health records

The rise of electronic healthcare charting and records has forever changed how medical professionals and patients interact with their health data. 

Examples of electronic health record-related research topics include:

The number of medication errors reported during a software switch

Nurse sentiment analysis of electronic charting practices

Ethical and legal studies into encrypting and storing personal health data

Inequities within healthcare access

Many barriers inhibit people from accessing the quality medical care they need. These issues result in health disparities and injustices. 

Examples of research topics about health inequities include:

The impact of social determinants of health in a set population

Early and late-stage cancer stage diagnosis in urban vs. rural populations

Affordability of life-saving medications

Health insurance limitations and their impact on overall health

Diagnostic and treatment rates across ethnicities

People who belong to an ethnic minority are more likely to experience barriers and restrictions when trying to receive quality medical care. This is due to systemic healthcare racism and bias. 

As a result, diagnostic and treatment rates in minority populations are a hot-button field of research. Examples of ethnicity-based research topics include:

Cancer biopsy rates in BIPOC women

The prevalence of diabetes in Indigenous communities

Access inequalities in women’s health preventative screenings

The prevalence of undiagnosed hypertension in Black populations

  • Pharmaceutical research topics

Large pharmaceutical companies are incredibly interested in investing in research to learn more about potential cures and treatments for diseases. 

If you’re interested in building a career in pharmaceutical research, here are a few examples of in-demand research topics:

Cancer treatment options

Clinical research is in high demand as pharmaceutical companies explore novel cancer treatment options outside of chemotherapy and radiation. 

Examples of cancer treatment-related research topics include:

Stem cell therapy for cancer

Oncogenic gene dysregulation and its impact on disease

Cancer-causing viral agents and their risks

Treatment efficacy based on early vs. late-stage cancer diagnosis

Cancer vaccines and targeted therapies

Immunotherapy for cancer

Pain medication alternatives

Historically, opioid medications were the primary treatment for short- and long-term pain. But, with the opioid epidemic getting worse, the need for alternative pain medications has never been more urgent. 

Examples of pain medication-related research topics include:

Opioid withdrawal symptoms and risks

Early signs of pain medication misuse

Anti-inflammatory medications for pain control

  • Identify trends in your medical research with Dovetail

Are you interested in contributing life-changing research? Today’s medical research is part of the future of clinical patient care. 

As your go-to resource for speedy and accurate data analysis , we are proud to partner with healthcare researchers to innovate and improve the future of healthcare.

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Controversial Research Paper Topics

Last updated on: Sep 25, 2024

150+ Controversial Research Paper Topics to Get You Started

By: Donna C.

10 min read

Reviewed By: Chris H.

Published on: Mar 6, 2024

controversial research paper topics

Finding the right research topic can be a challenge, especially when you want to explore subjects that are a bit daring. 

We understand the struggle of wanting to pick something that's not just interesting but also sparks curiosity and debate.

Controversial research papers make you think differently. They might make you a bit uncomfortable, but that discomfort often leads to some of the most fascinating discoveries and discussions.

In this blog, we've curated a list of controversial research paper topics to make your search easier. 

We’ll look closely at different topics, assisting you in finding a topic that not only interests you but also makes your academic experience meaningful.

Let’s dig in and find controversial topics to write a research paper on!

controversial research paper topics

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Good Controversial Research Paper Topics for Students

Selecting a captivating research paper topic can make the research paper writing process more engaging and thought-provoking. 

Here, we've curated a list of top research topics for students who are wondering what are some good controversial topics for a research paper. 

Controversial Research Topics for Middle School

  • Healthy School Lunches: Balancing Nutrition and Taste
  • Should Students Have Homework on Weekends?
  • Banning Junk Food in Schools: Pros and Cons
  • Space Exploration: Is It Worth the Cost?
  • The Importance of Environmental Conservation
  • Community Service: Should It Be a Mandatory School Requirement?
  • Is Censorship in Children's Literature Important?
  • School Start Times: Are They Too Early?
  • Should Students Be Allowed to Grade Their Teachers?
  • Should Middle Schoolers Be Taught Financial Literacy?

Controversial Research Topics for High School Students

  • Should High School Curriculum Include Mandatory Financial Literacy Courses?
  • Exploring the Controversies Surrounding School Prayer
  • The Influence of Violent VideoGames on Youth Behavior
  • Should High School Start Times be Adjusted for Teenage Sleep Patterns?
  • The Impact of Fast Food Advertising on Teenage Diets
  • Debunking or Validating Popular Health Fads Among High School Students
  • The Controversy Over Abstinence-only Education About Sex in High Schools
  • The Role of Standardized Testing in College Admissions: Fair or Unfair?
  • Should High School Students Have a Say in the Curriculum?
  • The Impact of Global Warming Facts and Education on High School Students

Controversial Research Topics for College Students

  • The Impact of Cancel Culture on Free Speech
  • The Ethics of AI Surveillance in Educational Institutions
  • Exploring Cultural Appropriation in College Events
  • Debunking or Validating Conspiracy Theories in College Curriculum
  • The Intersection of Gender Identity and Campus Policies
  • Examining the Controversies Surrounding College Admissions Testing
  • Privacy Concerns in Online Learning Platforms for College Courses
  • Evaluating the Impact of Social Media Influencers on College Students
  • Legalizing Recreational Drugs: Implications for College Communities
  • Analyzing the Influence of the Electoral College on College Debates and Discussions

Controversial Research Topics for University

  • The Intersection of Technology and Privacy in the Digital Age
  • The Impact of Universal Basic Income on Labor Markets and Society
  • Debunking Pseudoscience: Challenges and Strategies
  • The Role of Blockchain Technology in Reshaping Industries
  • The Future of Work: Automation, AI, and the Changing Landscape of Employment
  • Neuroethics: Ethical Considerations in Brain-Computer Interface Technologies
  • Augmented Reality in Healthcare: Enhancing Patient Care or Ethical Concerns?
  • Crisis Communication in the Age of Social Media: Challenges and Opportunities
  • The Ethics of Using AI in Criminal Justice: Bias, Accountability, and Transparency
  • Social Media Influencers and Digital Advertising Ethics

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Controversial Research Topics for Master’s

  • Implications of Synthetic Biology and Biohacking
  • Quantum Internet: Privacy and Security Challenges
  • Ethics of Autonomous Weapons and AI in Warfare
  • Impact of Deepfake Technology on Media and Society
  • The Intersection of Technology and Mental Health: Risks and Benefits
  • Space Tourism: Ethical and Environmental Implications
  • The Ethics of Data Brokers and Information Marketplaces
  • Quantum Cryptography: Securing Communication in the Quantum Era
  • The Future of Intellectual Property in the Age of AI and Robotics
  • The Digital Divide: Addressing Inequities in Access to Technology

Controversial Research Topics for Ph.D.

  • Digital Surveillance and Civil Liberties: A Comparative Analysis
  • Ownership and Privacy of Genetic Data in the Genomic Era
  • Legal and Ethical Aspects of Extraterrestrial Resource Utilization
  • Ethics of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) Development and Deployment
  • Regulatory Challenges of Decentralized Finance (DeFi)
  • Algorithmic Trading, High-Frequency Trading, and Market Manipulation
  • Big Tech's Influence on Global Politics and Governance
  • Transhumanism and the Evolution of Post-Human Society
  • The Intersection of Robotics and Human Rights: Ethical Considerations in Autonomous Systems
  • Neurotechnology and the Possibility of Mind Reading: Ethical Implications

Common Controversial Research Paper Topics

  • The Ethics of Genetic Editing: Balancing Innovation and Morality
  • Climate Change: Addressing Skepticism and Urgency for Affirmative Action
  • The Legality and Ethics of Euthanasia in Modern Society
  • Concealed Handguns: Balancing Second Amendment and Civil Rights 
  • The Controversy Surrounding Biofuels
  • Legalization of Recreational Drugs: Weighing the Risks and Benefits
  • The Impact of Immigration Policies on Society and the Economy
  • Nuclear Energy vs. Renewable Energy: Striving for a Sustainable Future
  • Censorship in Media: Protecting Society or Limiting Freedom of Expression?
  • The Death Penalty: Examining Morality and Effectiveness in Criminal Justice

Easy Controversial Research Paper Topics

  • Should Schools Adopt Year-Round Bilingual Education?
  • The Impact of Social Media Dependency on Personal Relationships
  • Fast Food Consumption: Pros and Cons
  • The Effectiveness of Capital Punishment as a Deterrent to Crime
  • The Influence of Reality TV on Youth Behavior
  • Should Animal Testing be Banned?
  • The Impact of Video Games Violence on Academic Performance
  • Marijuana Legalization and its Ethical Aspects
  • Should Smoking in Public be Illegal?
  • The Impact of Cell Phones on Face-to-Face Communication

Interesting Controversial Topics

  • The Philosophy of Time Travel: Possibilities and Paradoxes
  • Human Colonization of Mars: Ethical and Practical Considerations
  • Cryptids and the Paranormal: Scientific Exploration or Pseudoscience?
  • The Mandela Effect: Collective Memory or Alternate Realities?
  • Existence of Parallel Universes: Exploring Multiverse Theories
  • Plant Consciousness: Do Plants Have Feelings and Awareness?
  • The Mystery of Dark Matter and Dark Energy
  • Dream Interpretation: Psychology or Pseudoscience?
  • Astrology and Personality Traits: Cosmic Influences on Atheism?
  • The Hollow Earth Theory: Myth or Scientific Possibility?

Captivating Controversial Research Topics

  • Mind-Reading Technology and Privacy Paradox
  • Designer Babies: Crafting the Perfect Human
  • Parallel Universes: Theoretical Marvel or Scientific Reality?
  • Crypto-Currencies and the Future of Money Laundering
  • Artificial Consciousness: From Code to Sentience
  • Psychedelics in Psychiatry: Breaking the Taboo
  • Deepfake Dilemmas: The Ethics of Synthetic Media
  • Algorithmic Bias: Unmasking the Hidden Prejudice in Code
  • Conscious AI in the Workplace: Colleague or Competitor?
  • Rejuvenation Biotechnology: Extending Human Lifespan

Psychology Controversial Research Paper Topics

Here are some important controversial topics in psychology for research paper writing:

  • The Morality of Using Placebos in Psychological Treatment
  • The Ethics of Conducting Psychological Experiments on Animals
  • Is Video Game Addiction a Real Mental Health Concern?
  • The Influence of Parenting Styles on Child Development
  • The Role of Genetics in Determining Intelligence
  • Is Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) an Ethical Treatment for Depression?
  • The Psychology of Procrastination: Causes and Solutions
  • The Influence of Gender Stereotypes on Mental Health
  • The Relationship Between Sleep Deprivation and Cognitive Functioning
  • The Psychology Behind Conspiracy Theories: Understanding Beliefs and Behavior

Controversial Medical Topics For A Research Paper

  • The Ethics of Human Cloning
  • Physician-Assisted Suicide: Legal and Ethical Perspectives
  • Gene Editing and CRISPR Technology: Ethical Implications
  • The Legalization of Recreational Drugs for Medicinal Purposes
  • Organ Transplant Allocation: Fairness and Equality
  • Genetic Testing for Disease Predisposition: Privacy and Consent
  • Stem Cell Research: Promises and Ethical Concerns
  • Would Universal Healthcare Improve Healthcare Access?
  • Pharmaceutical Industry Influence on Medical Practices
  • Abortion: Medical, Ethical, and Legal Considerations

Simple Controversial Topics in History for Research Paper

  • The Debate Over Reparations for Historical Injustices
  • The Controversies Surrounding Columbus Day
  • The Impact of Colonialism on Indigenous Peoples
  • Historical Revisionism in Holocaust Denial
  • The Legacy and Controversies of Historical Figures
  • The Decision to Drop Atomic Bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki
  • Historical Perspectives on Immigration Policies and Debates
  • The Armenian Genocide: Recognition and Denial
  • The Legacy and Controversies of the Vietnam War
  • The Ethics of Archaeological Discoveries and Cultural Heritage Preservation

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Unique Controversial Topics

  • Universal Basic Income (UBI): Economic Panacea or Social Pitfall?
  • Alternative Medicine vs. Conventional Medicine
  • Urban Vertical Farming: Feeding Cities of the Future or Just a Pipe Dream?
  • E-Waste Crisis: The Dark Side of Technological Advancement
  • Water Scarcity and Corporate Control: Bottling Profits or Human Rights?
  • Challenges of 5G Technology: Innovation or Health Concerns?
  • Eradicating Infectious Diseases: Ethical Dilemmas in Gene Drives
  • The Ethics of Behavioral Advertising: Personalized Marketing or Invasive Manipulation?
  • Robot Rights: Navigating the Ethical Landscape of AI Personhood
  • The Future of Nuclear Energy: Sustainable Solution or Perpetuating Risks

Other than this range of controversial topics, here are some non-controversial topics too:

Non Controversial Research Paper Topics

  • The History of Public Libraries: Evolution and Impact on Communities
  • Effects of Music on Stress and Anxiety Levels
  • Benefits of Green Spaces in Urban Environments
  • The Role of Vitamin D in Human Health
  • History of Vaccinations and Their Impact on Public Health
  • The Science of Sleep: Understanding Sleep Patterns and Disorders
  • Positive Effects of Mindfulness Meditation on Mental Health
  • The Impact of Reading on Cognitive Development in Children
  • Advancements in Water Purification Technologies
  • The History of Astronomy: Contributions and Discoveries

How to Choose a Controversial Research Paper Topic?

Choosing a controversial research paper topic requires careful consideration and a strategic approach to ensure the relevance and impact of your work. 

Here are key steps to guide you in selecting a provocative and engaging topic for your research:

  • Identify Your Interests: Start by considering your personal interests and passions. A controversial topic is more compelling when it aligns with your genuine curiosity. Explore subjects that you are willing to investigate thoroughly.
  • Review Current Debates: Reading reputable news sources, scholarly articles, and opinion pieces will help you identify topics generating controversy and public discourse.
  • Evaluate Academic Relevance: Ensure that your chosen topic has academic merit. It should be relevant to your field of study and contribute meaningfully to existing knowledge. 
  • Check Research Feasibility: Assess the feasibility of conducting research on your chosen topic. Ensure that there are accessible resources, data, and literature available for a comprehensive analysis. 
  • Consider Ethical Implications: Controversial topics may involve sensitive issues. Strive to approach the topic with empathy, respect for diverse opinions, and a commitment to presenting a balanced perspective.
  • Stay Open to Adaptations: The dynamic nature of controversial topics may require adjustments to ensure the relevancy and significance of your findings. That’s why it is important to remain open to adapting your approach. 

To sum up, looking into controversial topics lets us dig into complicated problems, have conversations, and question our existing knowledge. These interesting subjects grab people's attention and add to the broader perspectives of research. 

This blog is your ultimate guide for controversial research paper topic selection. But if you feel like you need help with your topic or even research paper, reach our professional paper writing service online!

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Donna writes on a broad range of topics, but she is mostly passionate about social issues, current events, and human-interest stories. She has received high praise for her writing from both colleagues and readers alike. Donna is known in her field for creating content that is not only professional but also captivating.

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Research Paper Guide

Controversial Research Paper Topics

Nova A.

300+ Controversial Research Paper Topics & Ideas - 2024 Edition

24 min read

Controversial Research Paper Topics

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Picking a research topic can be tough, especially when you want to explore things that are a bit controversial. We get that you want something interesting that makes you curious and maybe starts a little debate.

Controversial research papers might make you feel a bit uneasy, but guess what? That discomfort can lead to some really insightful discoveries and talks.

In this blog, we've made things easy for you. We've picked out some controversial topics to help you out with your research paper . 

We'll look closely at different subjects to help you find one that not only interests you but also makes your academic journey more meaningful.

So, let's jump in and find controversial topics for your research paper!

Arrow Down

  • 1. Good Controversial Research Topics for Students
  • 2. Controversial Topics in Psychology for Research Paper
  • 3. Controversial Medical Topics for a Research Paper
  • 4. Controversial Topics in History for Research Paper 
  • 5. Controversial Research Paper Topics About Atheism
  • 6. Controversial Research Paper Topics About Assisted Suicide 
  • 7. Controversial Research Paper Topics About Capital Punishment
  • 8. Controversial Research Paper Topics About Censorship 
  • 9. Controversial Research Paper Topics About Abortion
  • 10. Controversial Research Paper Topics About Affirmative Action 
  • 11. Controversial Research Paper Topics About Affordable Care Act
  • 12. Controversial Research Paper Topics About Alternative Medicine 
  • 13. Controversial Research Paper Topics About Bilingual Education 
  • 14. Controversial Research Paper Topics About Biofuels 
  • 15. Controversial Research Paper Topics About Climate Change
  • 16. Controversial Research Paper Topics About Animal Testing 
  • 17. Controversial Research Paper Topics About Athletes and Morality
  • 18. Controversial Research Paper Topics About Civil Rights
  • 19. Controversial Research Paper Topics About Weapons 
  • 20. Controversial Research Paper Topics About Election Contests
  • 21. Controversial Research Paper Topics About Global Warming Facts
  • 22. Controversial Research Paper Topics About Social Media 
  • 23. Controversial Research Paper Topics About Violence 
  • 24. Easy Controversial Topics for Research Paper
  • 25. Common Controversial Research Paper Topics
  • 26. Interesting Controversial Topics for Research Papers
  • 27. Funny Controversial Topics for Research 
  • 28. Controversial Issues Today for Research
  • 29. Non-Controversial Research Paper Topics 
  • 30. How to Choose the Best Controversial Research Paper Topic 

Good Controversial Research Topics for Students

Here, we've compiled a list of topics tailor-made for researchers and scholars. Let's dive in and check out a range of controversial topics for high school research papers to college level research!

Controversial Research Topics for Middle School 

  • Should Homework be Abolished?
  • Uniforms vs. Casual Dress: What's Best for Schools?
  • Cell Phones in School: Educational Tool or Distraction?
  • Impact of Social Media on Teenagers' Well-being
  • School Lunch Choices: Healthy Options or Personal Freedom?
  • Should Animal Testing be Allowed for Cosmetic Products?
  • The Role of Competitive Sports in Schools
  • Banning Sugary Drinks in Schools: Health vs. Choice
  • Exploring Different Learning Styles: Tailoring Education
  • The Pros and Cons of School Year-round Education

Controversial Research Topics for High School Students 

  • The Role of Video Games in Aggressive Behavior Among Adolescents
  • Exploring the Effects of Fast Food on Teenagers' Health
  • The Pros and Cons of Standardized Testing in High Schools
  • Teenage Privacy: Balancing Independence and Parental Oversight
  • The Influence of Celebrities on Teenagers' Behavior
  • Addressing Teenage Substance Abuse in Schools
  • Climate Change Education: How Much is Too Much?
  • Examining the Impact of Cyberbullying on High School Students
  • Should Sex Education be Comprehensive in High Schools?
  • The Ethics of Genetic Engineering in High School Biology

Controversial Research Topics for College Students 

  • The Intersection of Free Speech and Hate Speech on College Campuses
  • Privacy vs. National Security: The Debate on Surveillance in a Digital Age
  • The Controversial Dimensions of Animal Testing in Scientific Research
  • Examining the Impact of Affirmative Action Policies in College Admissions
  • The Impact of Online Learning on Traditional Higher Education
  • College Student Mental Health: Addressing the Stigma
  • Controversies in the Ethical Landscape of Cloning Research
  • The Role of Technology in Cheating and Plagiarism Among College Students
  • Debating the Legalization of Recreational Drugs on College Campuses
  • Examining the Controversial Influence of Social Activism on College Campuses

Controversial Research Topics for University 

  • Freedom of Speech on College Campuses: Boundaries and Responsibilities
  • Economic Implications of Legalizing Recreational Drugs
  • Online Privacy: Striking a Balance Between Security and Freedom
  • The Role of Social Media in Shaping Political Opinions
  • College Affirmative Action Policies: Equal Opportunity or Reverse Discrimination?
  • Exploring the Impacts of Student Loan Debt on Graduates
  • Ethical Controversies Surrounding the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Academic Settings
  • Balancing Academic Freedom and Cultural Sensitivity
  • Controversies in How Climate Change Impacts Higher Education
  • Analyzing the Controversial Landscape of Mental Health Support Services on University Campuses

Controversial Research Topics for Master’s 

  • The Future of Work: Automation and Job Displacement
  • Ethical Dilemmas in Advancing Biomedical Engineering
  • The Role of Corporate Social Responsibility in Business Ethics
  • Debating the Morality of Capital Punishment
  •  Controversial Dynamics of Social Media's Influence on Political Campaigns
  • Explore the Controversies at the Intersection of Technology and Human Rights
  • Healthcare Accessibility: Addressing Disparities
  • The Ethics of Conducting Psychological Experiments on Human Subjects
  •  Controversial Role of Corporate Influence on Environmental Policies
  • The Intersectionality of Gender, Race, and Class: Challenges and Solutions

Controversial Research Topics for Ph.D. 

  • Explore the Controversies Surrounding Ethical Implications in Machine Learning Systems
  • The Ethical Implications of Genetic Editing in Human Embryos
  • The Impact of Corporate Lobbying on Government Policies
  • Exploring the Role of Religion in Shaping Public Policies
  • Climate Change Adaptation Strategies: Local vs. Global Approaches
  • The Morality of Military Interventions in Global Conflicts
  • The Intersection of Cybersecurity and Civil Liberties
  • Privacy Concerns in the Era of Big Data Analytics
  • The Ethics of Autonomous Vehicles in Urban Planning
  • Understanding and Addressing Systemic Racism in Institutions

Controversial Topics in Psychology for Research Paper

  • Nature vs. Nurture: The Enduring Debate
  • The Ethics of Conducting Experiments on Human Subjects
  • Psychological Effects of Violent Video Games on Children
  • The Validity of Repressed Memories in Psychotherapy
  • Psychological Impact of Social Media Addiction
  • Cultural Bias in Psychological Testing: Addressing Diversity
  • The Link Between Mental Health and Gun Violence
  • Treatment of Psychiatric Disorders: Medication vs. Therapy
  • Psychology of Terrorism: Understanding Extremist Behavior
  • The Influence of Early Childhood Experiences on Adult Behavior

Searching for fresh psychology research paper ideas? Our psychology research paper topics blog has some unique ideas for you.

Controversial Medical Topics for a Research Paper

  • Genetic Engineering: Promises and Pitfalls
  • Vaccination Mandates: Balancing Public Health and Individual Rights
  • Stem Cell Research: Ethical Implications
  • Assisted Reproductive Technologies: Navigating Moral Boundaries
  • Medical Marijuana: Therapeutic Benefits and Legal Considerations
  • Organ Transplants: Allocation and Fairness
  • Mental Health Stigma: Addressing Barriers to Treatment
  • Elderly Care: Euthanasia and Quality of Life
  • Access to Healthcare: A Basic Right or a Privilege?
  • Human Cloning: Scientific Progress or Ethical Dilemma?

Controversial Topics in History for Research Paper 

  • Reevaluation of Historical Figures: Should Statues be Removed?
  • Navigating Controversies in the Ethics of Historical Revisionism
  • Controversial Legacy and Cultural Impact of Colonialism on Indigenous Societies
  • Slavery Reparations: A Continuing Debate
  • The Decision to Drop the Atomic Bomb: Was it Justified?
  • The Role of Women in Historical Movements
  • The Debate Over Confederate Symbols in Modern Society
  • The Holocaust Denial: Confronting Revisionist Claims
  • Historical Accuracy in Films: Balancing Drama and Truth
  • The Consequences of Historical Cultural Appropriation

Need fresh ideas for your history research paper? Browse our blog on history research paper topics for hundreds of engaging topics.

Controversial Research Paper Topics About Atheism

  • Unpacking Controversies Surrounding the Role of Atheism in Shaping Modern Society
  • Atheism vs. Agnosticism: Debating Belief Systems
  • Analyzing the Controversial Connections Between Atheism, Morality, and Ethics
  • Atheism in Education: Balancing Worldviews
  • Atheism and Science: Conflict or Coexistence?
  • Atheism and the Notion of Meaning in Life
  • The Perception of Atheists in Religious Majority Societies
  • Atheism and Politics: Separation of Church and State
  • Atheism in the Context of Cultural Diversity
  • Atheism and Human Rights: Exploring Connections

Controversial Research Paper Topics About Assisted Suicide 

  • Controversies in the Ethical Dimensions of Assisted Suicide in Medical Practice
  •  Legal Complexities in Assisted Suicide Practices on a Global Scale
  • Controversies Surrounding Assisted Suicide Through the Lens of Religious Perspectives
  • Assisted Suicide for Terminally Ill Minors: Debating Compassion
  • The Psychological Impact of Assisted Suicide on Families
  • Assisted Suicide and Quality of Life: Balancing Autonomy
  • Cultural Variations in Attitudes Towards Assisted Suicide
  • Physician-Assisted Suicide vs. Euthanasia: Distinguishing Practices
  • Assisted Suicide and Mental Health: Examining Connections
  • Assisted Suicide Laws: A Global Comparative Analysis

Controversial Research Paper Topics About Capital Punishment

  • Capital Punishment: Retribution vs. Rehabilitation
  • The Death Penalty and Deterrence: Assessing Efficacy
  • Capital Punishment and Racial Disparities in Sentencing
  • Capital Punishment vs. Life Imprisonment: A Cost-Benefit Analysis
  • The Morality of Capital Punishment in Contemporary Society
  • Wrongful Executions: A Critical Examination
  • The Death Penalty and International Human Rights
  • Capital Punishment for Juveniles: Evaluating Ethical Boundaries
  • The Impact of Capital Punishment on Victims' Families
  • The Role of Mental Illness in Death Penalty Cases

Controversial Research Paper Topics About Censorship 

  • Censorship in the Digital Age: Challenges and Solutions
  • Freedom of Speech vs. Hate Speech: Navigating Boundaries
  • Censorship in the Arts: A Clash of Creativity and Regulation
  • The Ongoing Debate on Government Involvement in Media Censorship
  • Internet Censorship: Balancing Security and Freedom
  • Censorship in Education: Protecting Students or Limiting Knowledge?
  • Controversies Surrounding Book Censorship in Educational Institutions and Libraries
  • Censorship in Film and Television: Impact on Culture
  • Social Media Censorship: Navigating the Digital Landscape
  • Censorship and Political Propaganda: Examining Connections

Controversial Research Paper Topics About Abortion

  • The Ethics of Abortion: Personhood and Rights
  • Abortion Access: Legal, Ethical, and Socioeconomic Dimensions
  • Late-Term Abortion: Balancing Medical Necessity and Morality
  • Analyzing the Varied Perspectives on Abortion Through the Lens of Religious Influence
  • Abortion and Mental Health: Debunking Myths
  • Abortion Rights vs. Fetal Rights: A Legal Perspective
  • Abortion Stigma: Addressing Societal Attitudes
  • Controversies in the Involvement of Men in the Abortion Debate
  • Abortion and Reproductive Justice: A Feminist Perspective
  • Abortion Laws Worldwide: A Comparative Analysis

Controversial Research Paper Topics About Affirmative Action 

  • Affirmative Action in Higher Education: Achieving Diversity
  • Affirmative Action vs. Meritocracy: Evaluating Fairness
  • The Economic Impact of Affirmative Action
  • Affirmative Action and Reverse Discrimination: A Legal Analysis
  • Affirmative Action and Colorblind Policies: Addressing Disparities
  • Public Opinion on Affirmative Action: Shifting Perspectives
  • Affirmative Action and Corporate Diversity Initiatives
  • Affirmative Action in Employment: Challenges and Opportunities
  • Affirmative Action in Politics: Representation and Equity
  • The Role of Affirmative Action in Combating Systemic Racism

Controversial Research Paper Topics About Affordable Care Act

  • The Impact of the Affordable Care Act on Healthcare Access
  • Affordable Care Act vs. Private Healthcare: A Comparative Study
  • Public Opinion on the Affordable Care Act: Lessons Learned
  • The Role of Government in Healthcare: ACA's Significance
  • Affordable Care Act and Small Businesses: Assessing Impacts
  • Healthcare Costs and the Affordable Care Act: Evaluating Solutions
  • Repealing vs. Expanding the Affordable Care Act: Policy Debates
  • Affordable Care Act and Mental Health Services: Addressing Gaps
  • The Affordable Care Act and Healthcare Disparities
  • The Future of Healthcare Reform: Challenges and Possibilities

Controversial Research Paper Topics About Alternative Medicine 

  • Integrative Medicine vs. Conventional Medicine: Bridging Approaches
  • The Placebo Effect in Alternative Medicine: Exploring Mechanisms
  • Alternative Medicine and Cancer Treatment: A Controversial Landscape
  • Cultural Appropriation in Alternative Medicine Practices
  • Herbal Remedies and Traditional Medicine: Scientific Perspectives
  • Alternative Medicine vs. Evidence-Based Medicine: Finding Common Ground
  • Homeopathy: Efficacy and Skepticism in Medical Communities
  • Alternative Medicine and Mental Health: Examining Connections
  • The Regulation of Alternative Medicine: Striking a Balance
  • Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine: Clinical Applications

Controversial Research Paper Topics About Bilingual Education 

  • Bilingual Education vs. English-Only Instruction: Examining Approaches
  • The Impact of Bilingual Education on Academic Achievement
  • Bilingual Education and Cultural Identity: A Dual Perspective
  • The Role of Parental Involvement in Bilingual Education Success
  • Bilingual Education and Economic Mobility: A Long-Term Analysis
  • Bilingual Education and Special Needs Students: Addressing Challenges
  • Bilingual Education in Global Contexts: Cross-Cultural Perspectives
  • The Politics of Bilingual Education: Policy Debates and Implications
  • Bilingual Education and Standardized Testing: Assessing Fairness
  • Bilingual Education in Early Childhood: Cognitive and Social Benefits

Controversial Research Paper Topics About Biofuels 

  • Biofuels and Sustainable Agriculture: A Holistic Approach
  • Controversies Surrounding the Environmental Impact of Biofuel Production
  • A Critical Comparative Analysis of Biofuels and Fossil Fuels
  • Second-Generation Biofuels: Advancements and Challenges
  • The Role of Government Policies in Promoting Biofuel Development
  • Biofuel and Food Security: Navigating the Trade-offs
  • Algae Biofuels: Promises, Potential, and Pitfalls in the Pursuit of Sustainable Energy
  • Biofuel Subsidies: Economic Implications and Equity Concerns
  • Biofuel and Land Use: Balancing Energy Needs and Ecosystem Preservation
  • The Social and Ethical Dimensions of Biofuel Production

Controversial Research Paper Topics About Climate Change

  • Climate Change Denial: Exploring Causes and Solutions
  • The Role of Individual Actions in Combating Climate Change
  • Climate Change and Environmental Justice: Addressing Disparities
  • Perspectives and Debates Surrounding Climate Change and Its Varied Impacts on Biodiversity
  • Geoengineering: Controversial Approaches to Climate Mitigation
  • Climate Change and Global Health: Assessing Vulnerabilities
  • The Politics of Climate Change: International Cooperation and Challenges
  • Renewable Energy vs. Fossil Fuels: A Global Energy Transition
  • The Economics of Climate Change: Balancing Costs and Benefits
  • Climate Change and Migration: A Growing Global Challenge

Controversial Research Paper Topics About Animal Testing 

  • Balancing Scientific Progress and Ethical Concerns: The Ongoing Debate on Animal Testing in Biomedical Research
  • Alternatives to Animal Testing: Advancements and Limitations
  • Animal Testing in Medical Research: A Necessary Evil?
  • Cosmetic Testing on Animals: Industry Practices and Ethics
  • Animal Testing and the Development of Pharmaceuticals: A Critical Analysis
  • The Psychological Impact of Animal Testing on Researchers
  • The Use of Non-Human Primates in Biomedical Research: Ethical Considerations
  • Animal Welfare vs. Scientific Advancement: Finding Common Ground
  • The Role of Legislation in Regulating Animal Testing Practices
  • Animal Testing and Public Opinion: Bridging the Gap

Controversial Research Paper Topics About Athletes and Morality

  • Sports Ethics: Balancing Competition and Fair Play
  • Performance-Enhancing Drugs in Sports: Ethical Implications
  • The Role of Money and Sponsorship in Sports Morality
  • Athletes as Role Models: Responsibilities and Expectations
  • Sportsmanship in Modern Athletics: A Changing Landscape
  • Gambling and Match Fixing: Ethical Challenges in Sports
  • The Impact of Violence in Sports: Cultural Acceptance vs. Moral Concerns
  • Gender Equality in Sports: Ethical Considerations
  • The Use of Technology in Sports: Fairness and Morality
  • The Role of Coaches in Instilling Morality in Athletes

Controversial Research Paper Topics About Civil Rights

  • The Ongoing Struggle for Racial Equality: Past, Present, and Future
  • LGBTQ+ Rights: Achievements and Ongoing Challenges
  • Disability Rights: Navigating Barriers to Equality
  • Women's Rights: Progress and Persistent Inequalities
  • Religious Freedom vs. Anti-Discrimination Laws: A Delicate Balance
  • Indigenous Rights: Addressing Historical and Contemporary Injustices
  • Immigration Policies and Human Rights: A Controversial Nexus
  • Prisoner Rights: Rehabilitation vs. Punishment
  • Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunities: A Continuing Debate
  • Socioeconomic Inequality: A Civil Rights Perspective

Controversial Research Paper Topics About Weapons 

  • Gun Control: Striking a Balance Between Rights and Regulation
  • The Ethics of Autonomous Weapons: A Technological Dilemma
  • Nuclear Weapons and Global Security: A Delicate Balance
  • The Arms Trade: Balancing Economic Interests and Global Stability
  • Private Ownership of Military-Style Weapons: Legal and Ethical Dimensions
  • The Use of Chemical Weapons: A Violation of International Law
  • Autonomous Drones in Warfare: Ethical Implications
  • Cyber Weapons: A New Frontier in Global Conflict
  • The Role of Weapons in Policing: Community Safety vs. Militarization
  • Disarmament Initiatives: Progress, Challenges, and International Cooperation

Controversial Research Paper Topics About Election Contests

  • Election Interference: Addressing Threats to Democratic Processes
  • Voter ID Laws: Ensuring Security or Impeding Voting Rights?
  • Gerrymandering: Manipulating Electoral Districts for Political Gain
  • Campaign Finance: Balancing Free Speech and Financial Influence
  • Electronic Voting: Ensuring Accuracy and Security
  • The Electoral College: Examining Criticisms and Alternatives
  • Third-Party Candidates: Their Impact on Election Outcomes
  • Voting Rights for Convicted Felons: Restoring Civic Participation
  • The Influence of Foreign Entities in Domestic Elections

Controversial Research Paper Topics About Global Warming Facts

  • Anthropogenic Influence on Global Warming: Scientific Consensus vs. Skepticism
  • The Role of Carbon Emissions in Climate Change: Factoring in Human Activities
  • Natural Factors vs. Human Activities in Global Warming Trends
  • The Impact of Global Warming on Weather Patterns: Evidence and Predictions
  • The Ethics of Climate Change Denial: Responsibility and Accountability
  • The Economic Costs of Global Warming: Assessing Long-Term Implications
  • The Global Response to Climate Change: Successes and Failures
  • The Role of Renewable Energy in Mitigating Global Warming
  • Addressing Global Warming Skepticism: Strategies for Effective Communication
  • Global Warming and Biodiversity Loss: A Synthesis of Evidence

Controversial Research Paper Topics About Social Media 

  • Social Media and Mental Health: Exploring the Link
  • Fake News and Disinformation on Social Media Platforms
  • Privacy Concerns in the Age of Social Media: Navigating Digital Spaces
  • Social Media Addiction: A Growing Public Health Concern
  • Cyberbullying on Social Media: Impact and Prevention Strategies
  • Influencer Culture on Social Media: Authenticity vs. Commercialization
  • Social Media and the Spread of Misinformation during Public Health Crises
  • The Ethics of Content Moderation on Social Media Platforms
  • Social Media and its Influence on Youth: Balancing Benefits and Risks

Controversial Research Paper Topics About Violence 

  • Media Violence and its Impact on Aggressive Behavior
  • The Connection Between Poverty and Violent Crime Rates
  • Gun Violence Prevention: Policy Approaches and Controversies
  • Domestic Violence: Challenging Societal Norms and Legal Responses
  • Youth Violence in Urban Environments: Root Causes and Interventions
  • The Role of Mental Illness in Perpetrating Acts of Violence
  • Violence in Video Games: Assessing Effects on Youth Behavior
  • Capital Punishment and its Role in Deterrence of Violent Crimes
  • The Ethics of Torture in Combating Terrorism: A Controversial Debate
  • The Impact of Violent Entertainment on Societal Desensitization

Easy Controversial Topics for Research Paper

  • School Uniforms: Necessity or Restriction?
  • Single-sex Education: Pros and Cons
  • Impact of Fast Food on Obesity Rates
  • Social Media and Its Effects on Teenagers
  • Standardized Testing in Education: Fair or Flawed?
  • Animal Testing for Cosmetics: Cruelty or Necessity?
  • The Legal Drinking Age: Should It Be Lowered?
  • The Role of Celebrities in Shaping Youth Culture
  • The Pros and Cons of Online Learning
  • The Impact of Reality TV on Society

Common Controversial Research Paper Topics

  • Climate Change: Balancing Economic Growth and Environmental Conservation
  • Gun Control: Finding a Middle Ground
  • Capital Punishment: Ethical Implications
  • Immigration Policies: Striking a Balance
  • Social Media Impact on Society: The Good and the Bad
  • Euthanasia: Right to Die or Moral Dilemma?
  • Legalization of Marijuana: Weighing the Pros and Cons
  • Artificial Intelligence: Ethical Considerations
  • Censorship in Media: Protecting Society or Infringing on Rights?
  • Gender Equality: Progress and Challenges

Interesting Controversial Topics for Research Papers

  • Artificial Intelligence: Threats and Advancements
  • Universal Basic Income: A Solution or a Burden?
  • Cryptocurrency: Revolutionizing Finance or a Bubble?
  • Space Exploration: The Ethics of Colonizing Other Planets
  • Cultural Appropriation: Where to Draw the Line?
  • Technological Unemployment: Will Robots Take Our Jobs?
  • Biohacking: Pushing the Boundaries of Human Enhancement
  • Body Positivity vs. Health Concerns: A Delicate Balance
  • Quantum Computing: Promise and Perils
  • Psychedelic Therapy: Bridging Science and Spirituality

Funny Controversial Topics for Research 

  • Is Pineapple an Acceptable Pizza Topping?
  • Toilet Paper Orientation: Over or Under?
  • The Great Toothpaste Squeeze Debate: Middle or Bottom?
  • Socks with Sandals: Fashion Faux Pas or Bold Statement?
  • Cats vs. Dogs: Settling the Age-Old Argument
  • Is a Hot Dog a Sandwich?
  • The Proper Way to Load a Dishwasher: Endless Debate
  • Innie vs. Outie: The Belly Button Controversy
  • Team Edward vs. Team Jacob: The Twilight Saga Revisited
  • The Great Debate: Do Aliens Prefer Cats or Dogs?

Controversial Issues Today for Research

  • Climate Change Policies: Global Cooperation or National Interests?
  • Online Privacy: Balancing Security and Personal Freedoms
  • Income Inequality: Addressing the Wealth Gap
  • Gun Control: Finding Solutions in a Divided Society
  • Mental Health Stigma: Breaking Barriers to Treatment
  • Vaccine Hesitancy: Navigating Public Health Concerns
  • Racial Injustice: The Call for Equity and Equality
  • Social Media and Democracy: Impact on Political Landscapes
  • Gender Pay Gap: Bridging Disparities in the Workplace
  • Immigration Policies: Striking a Balance Between Security and Compassion

Non-Controversial Research Paper Topics 

  • Advancements in mRNA Vaccine Technology
  • Exploring the Relationship Between Physical Activity and Anxiety Reduction
  • Cybersecurity Challenges in the Modern Internet Era
  • Personalized Nutrition and its Impact on Health and Disease Prevention
  • Adapting Time Management Strategies to Remote Work Environments
  • Innovations in Sustainable Energy Solutions: A Comprehensive Review
  • Analyzing the Impact of Digital Reading Platforms on Cognitive Skills
  • Sleep Patterns and Their Influence on Mental and Physical Health
  • Revolutionizing Retail: The Integration of Augmented Reality in E-commerce
  • Assessing the Effectiveness of Multimodal Learning Approaches in Education

How to Choose the Best Controversial Research Paper Topic 

The best controversial topics to write a research paper on are those that ignite your intellectual curiosity and offer room for exploration.

Here's a guide to help you choose the best controversial research essay topics:

  • Identify Your Interests:

Start by considering your own interests and passions. What issues or subjects do you feel strongly about? Choosing a topic that genuinely engages you will make the research process more enjoyable.

  • Consider Relevance:

Look for research paper topics that are relevant to your field of study or the course you're taking. A controversial paper should contribute to the broader discourse within your academic discipline, ensuring its significance and impact.

  • Evaluate Controversy Levels:

Not all controversial topics are created equal. Some may be too polarizing, making it challenging to present a balanced view. Aim for a topic that allows you to explore multiple viewpoints, encouraging critical thinking and a well-rounded analysis.

  • Check Resources Availability:

Ensure that there is enough research material available on your chosen topic. A well-supported research paper relies on credible sources, so make sure there is a sufficient body of literature to draw from.

  • Test Your Thesis Statement:

Draft a preliminary research thesis for your chosen topic. This will help you communicate the main focus of your research and ensure that it aligns with your intended exploration of controversy.

In conclusion, this list provides lots of interesting yet challenging topics for your research paper. As you go ahead with your research, keep in mind that these topics are not just for getting good grades. They're also for having conversations that matter and can change how we see things. 

But if you want professional help with picking a topic as well as writing your research paper, MyPerfectWords.com is your best bet! 

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140+ Controversial Research Topics for Students to Consider

What is a controversial research.

Writing a controversial research paper aims to stir discussion and research revolving around any controversial topic. After choosing something that makes people think and even question some ideas to be explored to the opposite opinions to collect enough proof. Let’s Start Controversial Research Topics Journey.

Controversial Research Topics

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How to Write a Controversial Research Paper?

  • Know your readers: Imagine your type of readers from different viewpoints of your argument. Here, it would help if you considered the people who can disagree with you and those who agree with you. You need to take their concerns into consideration. Thus, you will develop a good ability for a wide range of readers.
  • Demonstrate your care for your readers: You can show your care for your readers in various ways. The best way is to bring up their concerns and address them in the right way through your writing. For example, you are convincing corporates on any particular issue and then always focus their profit in mind.
  • Avoid factual errors: Writing points can quickly make your readers lose faith in you or your argument.
  • Always avoid plagiarism: plagiarism is the biggest enemy of any assignment writing paper. You can only get an idea from any source and never copy-paste from any source. Your paper will be rejected if even a trace of plagiarism is found.
  • Polish your Controversial Research paper: Always try to avoid any spelling, punctuation, or sentence construction errors in your  Controversial Research  assignment paper since it might weaken your argument and create a bad impression on your readers.
  • Write a hooking introduction: This set of sentences should be sort but interesting enough to keep your readers stuck to your whole  Controversial Research Paper.
  • Write important contexts: Give all the necessary contexts in  your Controversial Research Papers.  This might include debates on current issues, historical events, etc. People will become more familiar with your issue if you give the context. This will also help you define the issue’s significance with your argument.
  • Stating your thesis: This thesis part is your own claim or argument. It is not only a fact or statement but very much arguable based on the evidence you gave.
  • Present your argument logically: While you are presenting your argument, you always need to ensure that each of your claims supports your overall thesis. In your introductory part, you need to include a summary of your given argument as well as an overview of the organization. This will always help your readers know what you want to state and gain their trust. Start the paper body by including the sub-claims in the different sections of your paragraph.
  • Support each point with valid evidence: Do not write any vague points. Include data from the respected scientific studies of the discussed topic. For example, if you are using any scientific data, always ensure it is collected from a valid, relevant, peer-reviewed source. It must also have a statistically significant size, sample and a literature review. You can also include specific examples to make a point in your essay.
  • Take care with the statistics: Statistics are quite useful to establish the importance of any topic. It also affects various groups of people. Sometimes, it can also be misleading. Thus, it is always very important for you to acquire statistics from a reliable source. Here, you need to address the context, with size, sample, etc., to determine whether the statistics are helpful. Here, it would help if you also remembered that any statistical correlation is not equal to causation.
  • Present your argument logically: You must ensure each of your claims supports your overall thesis. In the introductory part, you need to introduce a summary of your own argument, which will help your reader understand your viewpoints and argument. In this way, you can gain their trust. You need to write the paper body with subclaims as various sections of the Paras. Here, you also need to back up each of the claims with concrete evidence. For example, if you use scientific data, ensure it comes from a relevant source. These also need a statistically significant sample size with a perfect literature review.
  • Use the best sources: Always use credible sources in your writing. While you are convincing your audiences, you need to use the most credible sources.
  • Cite the sources: you need to choose the best citation style. You need to follow this form throughout your paper. Here, you also need to include in-text citations while paraphrasing your sentences. Also, take care to avoid plagiarism.
  • Support your argument: In order to support your argument, you always need to analyze your evidence. This will need you to break down your own evidence into various components. You are clearly explaining each argument’s real purpose to your audience.

Also Read:  The Most Relevant Controversial Topics For Essay And Debate

How do you choose topics for a controversial research paper, controversial research topics guide.

  • Please choose a topic that is really interesting to you since you will be enjoying it more.
  • Always ensure that your topic is not very broad and over-informed
  • Ensure that your chosen topic is also not so narrow that it is difficult to find adequate information on it
  • Limit your topic to a specific period ex, 2, 5 or 10 years
  • Always limit the topic to any specific geographical area if required ex: USA, California or Kentucky
  • Consider how much information is needed for your chosen topic.
  • Start your research work for the elimination of anxiety or stress.

Interesting Blog for You:  100+ Interesting Debate Topics & Ideas for Students

List of the best controversial research paper topics, controversial research topics for school and college students.

  • Safety Uninsured patients
  • Responsibilities of a nurse towards patient’s behaviour
  • Video games and their violence
  • Controversies surrounding Covid-19
  • Personal medical data vs its disclosure
  • How to deal with physical disabilities
  • Origin of religious conflicts
  • Female vs male parenting
  • Ethical aspects of the beauty salons
  • Health factors in a vegan diet

Controversial Research Topics for University Students

  • Affirmative Action
  • Artificial intelligence researches
  • Alternative medicine
  • America’s global influence
  • Research on stem cell
  • Human-computer Interface researches and Future
  • Affordable Care Act
  • Atheism and its significance in society
  • Bilingual education
  • Human clone research ethical or not

Controversial Topics for Research Scholars

  • Banning plastic bags
  • Making uniforms mandatory in schools, right or not
  • Internet privacy and ethical hacking
  • Is having exotic pets an Ecological Threat or Personal Passion
  • Is investment in space exploration worthwhile?
  • Analyzing celebrity culture and media influence
  • Is animal protection a human responsibility?
  • Is sex education necessary at the school level?
  • Gender equality in the society
  • Are artificial sweeteners really good for health?

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Amazing Controversial Research Topics

  • Is surrogacy ethical?
  • NATO’s role in Yugoslavia’s conflict
  • Benefits of eating meat
  • Can genetics cause alcoholism?
  • Psychological effects of hate crimes
  • Should bullfighting be banned everywhere
  • Advancement in genetic research
  • De-addiction camps benefits
  • Is spiritual healing useful?
  • Ways to meditate

Captivating Controversial Research Ideas

  • Is it helpful to have a huge interest in psychology?
  • Healthcare among tee agers
  • Is the regulation of social media necessary?
  • Good vs evil, do genes act?
  • Future of Physiognomy
  • Are video games making our kids violent?
  • Pros and cons of adult education
  • Are anti-abortion laws really helpful to society?
  • Will machines rule us in the Future?
  • Is capital punishment ethical?

Impressive Controversial Research Questions

  • Expression of slavery on television
  • Medical tourism and its issues
  • Downbeat effects of nightclubs
  • Abortion laws in Poland
  • Abortion laws in the USA
  • Global warming reasons
  • Issues associated with vaccination
  • Laws related to weapons
  • Sanctions on certain Middle Eastern countries
  • Limited nature of Roman Catholicism

Trending Controversial Research Topics

  • How history repeats itself
  • Can student assessment be made optional?
  • How vitamins help our body from food supplements
  • Is free internet access really helpful for students?
  • Do horror movies really destroy mental well-being?
  • Is imposing uniforms a violation of human rights
  • Practical studies should be paid more attention in colleges
  • Global climate change consequences
  • Marijuana is a legal drug.
  • Adult education drive and its importance in society

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Classic Controversial Topics for Research

  • Is calling out culture good for society
  • Is CBD good for pets?
  • How safe is cell phone radiation
  • Can cheerleading be regarded as a sport
  • Should churches be taxed
  • Is a college education worth it?
  • Are Concealed Handguns legal
  • Is corporal punishment needed
  • Is Daylight Saving Time necessary
  • Importance of various space programs

Interesting Controversial Research Topics

  • Can kids be allowed to vote?
  • Does school uniform lead to equality?
  • Is Freedom of Speech justified?
  • Do not mix church and politics.
  • Pros and cons of military services
  • Fear of plagiarism
  • Can religious education be made compulsory
  • Black Lives Matter movement controversies
  • Censorship in North Korea
  • Stigma on Metal Music

Captivating Controversial Topics for Research

  • Can abortions be legalized
  • Is advanced education needed for everyone
  • Is polygamy an inevitable thing even today
  • Terrorism is a big global threat.
  • Lesbians and homosexuals vs society
  • Plastic surgery to be made readily available for everyone
  • Everyone deserves forgiveness
  • Soft drinks should not be sold to kids
  • Fast food chains need to be government-controlled
  • Marijuana and heroin to be made legal

Outstanding Controversial Research Ideas

  • Dilemma on Cannabis Legalization.
  • Why Should College Tuition be lowered?
  • Basic work ethic research
  • Should college tuition be made free
  • Capitalism should be checked
  • Rise of the machines in the modern society
  • Gay Couples Rights for Adoption
  • Why Businesses need to Embrace Ethics
  • How to control the rising population
  • Necessity of green revolution
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Excellent Controversial Research Topics

  • Athletes to be allowed to take performance-enhancing meds
  • Media promote terrorism.
  • Minimum wages to be increased.
  • Society is full of cults.
  • Eating disorders are curable
  • How to end capitalism
  • How to promote public sector entities
  • freedom of speech cannot be guaranteed
  • All countries have the right to defend their national security.
  • Today is the era of globalization.

Simple Controversial Topics for Research

  • Is technology really improving our quality of life
  • Is artificial intelligence (AI) dangerous?
  • Do drones in public places really ensure safety
  • Has email improved our communication?
  • Shall we invest in technology for colonizing other planets
  • Is technology making us less productive
  • Should all cars be made electric
  • Can social media really make human relationships
  • Can net neutrality be restored?
  • How to overcome mobile addiction

Impressive Controversial Ideas for Research

  • Using terrorism as a global political tool
  • Domestic violence
  • Gender inequality
  • Banned sport practices
  • Illegal smuggling of drugs and weapons overseas
  • Global industrial pollution
  • Poisonous gases from automobiles
  • Illegal experiments exposure
  • Benefits of sting operations
  • Ban on animal entertainment

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

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

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

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

🔝 Top 10 Controversial Questions in 2024

🤷 what is a controversial topic, 🤔 most controversial questions — and why.

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

🔎 Controversial Research Topics

  • 📝 Controversial Argumentative Topics

💼 Controversial Business Topics

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

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

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

How to Present a Controversial Topic?

  • Ensure you have all the necessary information and are well-versed in the subject.
  • Avoid unnecessary jargon or technical terminology.
  • Consider your target listeners’ age, gender, and ethnicity.
  • Establish credibility by sharing accurate facts or relevant stories.
  • Present both sides of the argument to be objective.

What Are Some Controversial Questions?

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

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

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

❔ Should abortion be legalized around the world?

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

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

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

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

❔ Should capital punishment be canceled?

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

❔ To what degree should freedom of speech be protected?

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

❔ What measures should be taken to stop global warming?

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

This image shows the most controversial topics.

🏫 Controversial Topics for High School Students

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

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

🎓 Controversial Topics for College Students

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

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

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

Controversial Topics in Education

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

Controversial Psychology Topics

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

Controversial Criminal Justice Topics

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

This image shows current controversial criminal justice topics.

Controversial Political Questions

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

Controversial Environmental Topics

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

📝 Controversial Argumentative Essay Topics

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

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

Controversial Questions About Art

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

Controversial History Questions

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

Controversial Opinion Questions

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

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

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

Controversial Topics in Business Management

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

Controversial Marketing Topics

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

This image shows examples of controversial marketing campaigns.

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

Controversial Nursing Topics

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

Controversial Public Health Topics

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

Controversial Medical Ethics Topics

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

Controversial Questions about Mental Health

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

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

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

Controversial Biology Topics

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

Controversial Engineering Topics

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

Controversial Chemistry Topics

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

This image shows controversial topics in science.

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

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

Moral Controversial Topics

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

Controversial Religious Topics

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

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

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

Random Controversial Questions

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

Controversial Sports Topics

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

Controversial Music Topics

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

Controversial Animal Topics

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

Social Media Controversial Topics

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

Controversial Relationship Questions

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

Controversial Food Questions

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

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

  • Addicts should receive help rather than punishment.
  • Breastfeeding and bottle feeding controversies .
  • Why does the beauty industry create unrealistic beauty standards ?
  • Is it possible for alternative energy to replace fossil fuels effectively?
  • Rationalism and empiricism controversy .
  • The possible drawbacks of binge-watching .
  • The importance of a parenting class before having a child.
  • Holocaust denial and antisemitism ideas .
  • Why is war never justified?
  • Smoking e-cigarettes should be made illegal.
  • Contemporary global controversies: labor standards .
  • The single-gender schools are better for teenagers.
  • Why should we ban “diet culture”?
  • Debate on circumcision: is it unethical and unlawful ?
  • Effective ways of solving the problem of ageism in society.
  • The drawbacks of patriotism exceed the advantages.
  • Mass starvation: is it a real danger for humans ?
  • Why is it impossible to achieve world peace?
  • The negative impact of beauty pageants on self-esteem.
  • Graffiti: is it art or vandalism ?
  • Are pharmaceutical medication prices reasonable?
  • Women are better at managing large corporations than men.
  • Sport hunting: is it cruel to kill animals for sport ?
  • Organ donation should be made compulsory.
  • Why is feminism out of date in the 21st century?
  • Criminal profiling: is it science ?
  • Cryptocurrencies will replace traditional currencies soon.
  • Corporate jobs are a new form of slavery.
  • Obesity: is it a disease ?
  • Why is blockchain technology the future?
  • Hot Topics and Controversial Issues | Texas State University
  • Guidelines for Discussing Difficult or High-Stakes Topics | University of Michigan
  • What Do Americans Think About Controversial Topics in Schools? | USC Dornsife
  • Topics | Brookings
  • Issues and Controversies: Find a Topic | Marquette University
  • Political Issues | Pew Research Center
  • Issues & Controversies: topics on Crime and Juvenile Justice | A&M University
  • Engaging in Discussions about Controversial Issues | Alys Avalos-Rivera
  • Business Management Topics | The University of Maine
  • Topics: Issues Related to Religion | The First Amendment Encyclopedia
  • 5 Major Controversies and Challenges in Engineering | Interesting Engineering
  • What Are the Top 10 Public Health Challenges in 2023? | News Medical
  • Select a Research Topic: Current Events and Controversial Issues | Southern Adventist University
  • 110+ Controversial Debate Topics to Challenge Your Students | We Are Teachers
  • Addressing Controversial Issues | Council of Europe
  • 100+ Interesting Debate Topics | Owlcation
  • Room for Debate | The New York Times
  • The 22 Debates That Made Us Rage, Roll Our Eyes, and Change Our Minds In 2022 | The New York Times
  • Current Debates | SAGE edge
  • Current Debates in Health Care Policy: A Brief Overview | Brookings

IMAGES

  1. 140 Controversial Research Topics and Ideas to Focus On

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  4. 265 Controversial Research Paper Topics & Ideas

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  5. 100+ Fascinating Controversial Research Paper Topics For All

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VIDEO

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  2. Albert Einstein's Brain: The Controversial Research after His Death #alberteinstein#einsteinbrain

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COMMENTS

  1. 100+ Topics for Argumentative Essays and Debates - ProCon.org

    Need to write an argumentative essay? Preparing for an upcoming debate? ProCon.org has over 100 topics complete with pro and con arguments, quotes and statistics from experts, historical information, and other pertinent research. A. Abortion – Should abortion be legal? Alternative Energy – Can alternative energy effectively replace fossil ...

  2. 99 of the Most Controversial Research Paper Topics ... - Otio

    From exploring ethical dilemmas to dissecting societal taboos, this blog will navigate the intricate landscape of controversial subjects, shedding light on research paper structure while captivating your intellectual curiosity.

  3. 300+ Controversial Research Topics - Research Method

    Controversial Research Topics are as follows: The impact of genetically modified organisms on human health. The use of embryonic stem cells for medical research. The effectiveness of abstinence-only sex education. The effects of violent video games on children and adolescents.

  4. 130 New Prompts for Argumentative Writing - The New York Times

    130 New Prompts for Argumentative Writing. Questions on everything from mental health and sports to video games and dating. Which ones inspire you to take a stand?

  5. 50 Compelling Argumentative Essay Topics - ThoughtCo

    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.

  6. 77 interesting medical research topics for 2024 - Dovetail

    Why is pollution-based asthma on the rise? How can we address pollution-induced asthma in young children? 77 medical research topics worth exploring in 2023.

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    Controversial research papers make you think differently. They might make you a bit uncomfortable, but that discomfort often leads to some of the most fascinating discoveries and discussions. In this blog, we've curated a list of controversial research paper topics to make your search easier.

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