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What are controversial debate topics, good controversial debate topics, fun controversial debate topics, controversial debate topics for teens , social controversial debate topics, controversial debate topics on current events .

Key Takeaways

Frequently Asked Questions

Controversial debate topics are subjects – that can spark strong opinions and disagreements among people with different beliefs and values. These topics can cover various subjects, such as social issues, politics, ethics, and culture, and may challenge traditional beliefs or established norms.

One thing that makes these topics controversial is that there is often no clear consensus or agreement among people, which can lead to debates and disagreements. Each person may have their own interpretation of the facts or values that influence their perspective. It’s difficult for all to reach a resolution or agreement.

Despite the potential for heated discussions, controversial debate topics can be a great way to explore different viewpoints, challenge assumptions, and promote critical thinking and open dialogue.

However, it is crucial to distinguish controversial topics from controversial opinions – statements or actions that cause disagreement or conflict.

For example, climate change can be controversial, but a politician’s comment denying the existence of climate change can be controversial.
Is social media harming society more than it helps?
Is it appropriate to make marijuana legal for recreational use?
Should college be provided for free?
Should schools teach comprehensive sex education?
Is it ethical to use animals for scientific research?
Does human activity account for the majority of climate change?
Should beauty pageants be stopped?
Are credit cards doing more harm than good?
Should diet pills be banned?
Should human cloning be permitted?
Should there be stricter laws on gun ownership or fewer restrictions?
Is climate change a serious issue that requires urgent action, or is it overblown and exaggerated?
Should individuals have the right to end their own lives in certain circumstances?
Should certain types of speech or expression be censored or restricted?
Is eating animal meat unethical?
Should there be more or less strict regulations on immigration and refugee policies?
Is job security the biggest motivation rather than money?
Are zoos doing more harm than good?
Are parents legally responsible for their children’s actions?
Does peer pressure have a net positive or negative impact?

Is it better to have a small group of close friends or a large group of acquaintances?
Should you brush your teeth before or after breakfast?
Should you put mayo or ketchup on the fries?
Is it acceptable to dip fries in a milkshake?
Should you brush your teeth before or after breakfast?
Is it better to use a bar of soap or liquid soap?
Is waking early or staying up late better?
Should you make your bed every day?
Should you wear a mask in public places?
Should teenagers access birth control without parental consent?
Should the voting age be lowered to 16?
Should parents have access to their children’s social media accounts?
Should cell phone use be allowed during school hours?
Is homeschooling a better option than traditional schooling?
Should the school day start later to allow for more sleep for students?
Is studying should be voluntary?
Should schools be allowed to discipline students for social media use outside of school?
Should school hours be reduced?
Should drivers be banned from using mobile phones while driving?
Should the legal driving age be raised to 19 in some countries?
Should students take classes on parenting?
Should teenagers be allowed to work part-time jobs during the school year?
Should social media platforms be held responsible for the spread of misinformation?
Should schools make drug testing mandatory for students?
Should cyberbullying be considered to be an offense?
Should teens be allowed to have relationships with significant age differences?
Should schools allow students to carry concealed weapons for self-defense?
Should teens be allowed to get tattoos and piercings without parental consent?
Is online learning as effective as in-person learning?

Should hate speech be protected under freedom of speech laws?
Should the government provide a guaranteed basic income for all citizens?
Is affirmative action necessary to address systemic inequalities in society?
Should Violence/Sex on TV be abolished?
Should illegal immigrants be allowed to receive social welfare benefits?
Is the pay discrepancy between men and women the result of discrimination?
Should the government regulate the use of artificial intelligence?
Should healthcare be a universal human right?
Should the assault weapons ban be extended?
Should billionaires be taxed at a higher rate than the average citizen?
Is it necessary to legalize and regulate prostitution?
Who is more important in the family, father or mother?
Is GPA an outdated way of assessing a student’s knowledge?
Is the war on drugs a failure?
Should vaccinations be mandatory for all children?
Is the use of social media algorithms to spread misinformation a threat to democracy?
Should COVID-19 vaccine mandates be implemented?
Is the use of artificial intelligence ethical in the workplace?
Should AI be used instead of humans?
Should companies be required to provide advance notice of lay-offs to employees?
Is it ethical for companies to lay off employees while CEOs and other executives receive large bonuses?

Key Takeaways

Hopefully, with 70 controversial debate topics, you can expand your knowledge and gain new perspectives.

However, it is essential to approach these topics with respect, an open mind, and a willingness to listen and learn from others. Engaging in respectful and meaningful debates on controversial topics with AhaSlides’ template library and interactive features can help us broaden our understanding of the world and each other, and possibly even lead to progress in finding solutions to some of the most pressing issues of our time.

1/ What are good topics to debate about?

Good topics to debate can vary widely depending on the interests and perspectives of the individuals involved. Here are some examples of good debate topics:

2/ What are some controversial debates?

Controversial debates are those that involve topics that can generate strong and opposing viewpoints and opinions. These topics are often contentious and can provoke heated arguments and debates among individuals or groups who hold different beliefs and values.

Here are some examples:

3/ What is an emotional and controversial topic?

An emotional and controversial topic can provoke strong emotional reactions and divides people based on their personal experiences, values, and beliefs.

For example:

Do you still want to be more explicit about an excellent debater portrait? Here, we’ll give a practical and convincing example of a good debater for you to learn and hone your debate skills.

A writer who wants to create practical and valuable content for the audience

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Debate Topics

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Debate Topics (2024) - Top 200+ Compelling Topics

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Published on: Mar 22, 2023

Choosing an interesting topic for a debate can be a little tricky. There are several factors that are to be considered before you choose a topic.

Is the topic debatable?
Do you have content for it?
Is the content easily available for research?
Are you genuinely interested in the topic?
Is the topic good enough to impress your audience?

Get all the answers below and get some creative and great debate topics and ideas.

On this Page

What is the Debate?

A debate and speech writing is a process or an activity that involves presenting relevant arguments in support of a viewpoint. Normally, debates take place in academic institutes, public meetings, and legislative and lawmaking assemblies.

It is a common part of our lives, and we all have argued at some point in our lives. Through a debate, a participant tries to cancel the views and arguments of the opponent while safeguarding their own views with solid proof and arguments.

In an academic and scholarly environment, it is considered quite a fun and enlightening activity that engages the audience and adds to their knowledge.

What are the Types of Debate?

Debates can be of various types. Each type is used for a specific type of debate, and all of them are conducted differently and could take place for different purposes. Below are the six types of debate:

Lincoln-Douglas Debate: This type of debate is mostly used in formal debating societies. It is also known as a "value debate" and requires two individuals to argue against each other on moral and ethical issues.
Rebuttal Debate: A rebuttal debate is an argument that takes place between two participants. Each participant has to present their arguments and prepare a strong case against the opposition's point of view.
Cross-Examination Debate: In this type of debate, each speaker is given time to answer questions posed by the opposition while they are presenting their argument.
Public Forum Debate: This is a form of debate in which two teams compete against each other with their respective cases.
Oregon-Oxford Debate: This debate type also takes place between two participants, and each speaker has to present arguments while preparing a strong case against the opposition's point of view.
One-Rebuttal Debate: This type of debate is similar to the Cross-Examination Debate except that each speaker has only one chance to rebut the opposition's argument.

No matter what kind of debate you are planning or participating in, you will not need a unique or out-of-the-box type of topic for it. Your topic should be interesting and relatable for your audience, and this is enough to make your debate a winner.

How to Choose Good Debate Topics?

Some important factors need to be considered when it comes to choosing a good debate topic. A good debate topic will help the audience understand both sides of the issue and keep them engaged to make better and more informed decisions.

Here are a few tips that will help you choose a good topic for your debate.

Interest: It is necessary that you should be interested in your topic since you are the one who is going to write and deliver it to your audience. If you are not interested in the topic, there is no way that your debate will be convincing enough to persuade your audience.
Research: To debate effectively, you should be aware of the pros and cons of your topic. This will help you convince the audience by opposing the opponent’s viewpoints.
Target Audience: This is the essential factor to consider while choosing a debate topic. Your topic should be according to the intellectual level of your audience. Only this way, they will actually understand what you are trying to deliver in your debate.
Argument Potential: Pick a topic that has solid argument potential. If only one side is right or if there is limited information available, you will face a hard time crafting a good debate.

Are you ready to learn debating strategies and leave your opponent and audience amazed? Watch this video

Debate Topics on Different Subjects

Great speeches and debate topics are essential for memorable debates and speeches. This is why we suggest that you do your research properly before deciding on a specific topic. To help you get some memorable topic ideas, we have gathered lists of topics that could be used in any type of debate like Lincoln-Douglas debate topics, rebuttal debates, and others.

Here is a complete list of engaging debate competition topics and ideas.

Continue reading, and you will definitely find a great topic.

Should abortion be allowed in all cases?

Alternative Energy

Is alternative energy a better option than traditional sources of energy?

American Socialism

Should the U.S. move towards a socialist system?

Animal Testing

Is it ethical to use animals for testing?
Is it ethical to clone animals?
Is animal testing necessary?

Banned Books

Should books that contain offensive content be banned?

Binge-Watching

Is binge-watching television and movies a good way to spend time?

Bottled Water Ban

Should bottled water be banned in all cases?

Business Ethics

What role should ethical considerations play in business decisions?

Cyberbullying

How can cyberbullying be prevented?

Capital Punishment

Is capital punishment an effective deterrent against crime?
Should capital punishment be used as a form of punishment?
Should censorship of the internet be allowed?

Cancel Culture

Is cancel culture a valid form of protest?

Cell Phones

Should the use of cell phones be restricted in public places?

Climate Change

Is climate change real or man-made?
Should human cloning be allowed?
Should drugs be decriminalized or not?

Death Penalty

Is the death penalty effective as a punishment?

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School debate should be compulsory for all students
There should be no school uniforms or a dress code
Students should not be allowed to use Facebook.
Impact of social media on teenagers and high school students.
Junk food should not be banned in schools
Energy drinks should be banned from students.
Students should volunteer for community service.
Students should not be allowed gadgets in private school.
Mobile phones should not be allowed in schools
High school students should not be allowed cell phones in school.
Online learning vs. traditional learning. Which is better?
How can technology help to improve education?
The modern college education system is better than the traditional one.
How can we engage high school students in the class?
How is outdoor learning beneficial?
Homework should be banned in schools.
How can a college education help you get a good job?
Should public schools offer educational bonuses?
Why do kids need recess?
Traditional teaching methods should be replaced with AI-powered education.
Public speaking boosts the confidence of students.
Entertainment and Technology Debate Topics
Children should not be allowed to play violent video games.
Pros and cons of using social media.
Does technology intensify human communication skills?
Effects of violent cartoons on the mental development of children.
Playing video games should be banned for kids.
Environmental Issues
Global warming and its impacts on humanity.
Is global warming a real issue?

Discover Captivating Topics in a Click!

Fun and Funny Debate Topics

Following fun debate topics are great if you are looking for topics that are light in mood and offer humorous matters.

Women are much more complicated than men.
Which one is better? Eat to live or live to eat?
Children should not be allowed to watch cartoons as they portray violence.
Why can men date younger women, but women can’t date younger men?
Are there some discrete messages in nursery rhymes?
Morals or money? Which one is necessary to survive?
Which gender is better? Male or female?
How does sunlight affect vampires?
Can vampires get AIDS?
How will life be after death?
Barbie is a good role model for young girls.
Do fairy tales affect children’s reality perception?
Has the #MeToo movement gone too far?
Which is the better pet? Dogs or cats.
What comes first? Chicken or eggs.
Winters are better than summer.
Do you want to live forever?
What is a better dessert? Cake or ice cream.
What is the best topping for pizza?
No one should ever tell a lie.

General Debate Topics

Zoos should be banned Why do kids need privacy? Importance of saving money. Every student should adopt a family pet. Why do most kids start smoking? Importance of reading books. Animals should have the same rights as humans. Fast-food chains are the major cause of the increase in the obesity rate.

Healthcare Debate Topics

Marijuana should be legal for its use in medicines.
Pharmacists should not be allowed to prescribe medicines.
Obese people should pay more for healthcare.
Healthcare should not be free for everyone.

Interesting Debate Topics

Is sex education necessary for middle school students?
Nuclear powers are the major cause of wars.
Same-sex marriage should not be allowed.
Gay relationships are against nature.
Students are becoming way too dependent on technology.
Money is a major source of motivation in the workplace.
Girls should be encouraged and supported to enter the STEM research field.
Is money a key factor in getting exoneration from crimes?
Alternative energy resources should be explored and used to preserve natural resources.
Censorship should be made less lenient for educational documentaries.
Gay couples should be allowed to adopt children.
The sale of fur must be banned.
Reality television is harming society.
Why is paintball a real sport?
Sports are more important than arts.
What are the differences between cricket and hockey?
Why is it important to ban late-night alcohol sales?
Unpaid internships should be made illegal.
Beauty contests should be banned.
Gay couples should not be allowed to adopt children.

Justice Debate Topics

The death penalty should be abolished.
Mental illness should not be grounds for criminal justice exemption.
The legal age for voting should be lowered.
Juveniles who commit crimes should not be tried as adults.
Should police officers wear body cameras?
Are plea bargains fair to defendants?

Knowledge Debate Topics

Do humans learn better by reading or listening?
Should universities offer free tuition to all students?
Is knowledge more important than experience?
What is the best way to acquire knowledge?
Are tests a good indication of student learning?
Do grades accurately measure intellectual abilities?

Life and Ethics Debate Topics

Beauty pageants are another way to objectify women.
Beauty pageants are setting ridiculous standards in society.
Social networking sites are used for stalking instead of communicating.
Torture is never justified, no matter what the situation is.
Celebrities have the leverage to get away with crimes more than any non-celebrity.
Cigarettes should not be allowed in public places.

Moral Debate Topics

Is it ever right to lie?
Should animals be used for scientific research?
Is abortion wrong in all cases?
Capital punishment is morally wrong.
The death penalty should not exist.
Should prostitution be legalized?
What is the moral responsibility of corporations?

Nature Debate Topics

Are humans responsible for global warming?
Should plastic bags be banned in all countries?
Why are bees important to our environment?
How can deforestation be stopped or slowed down?
What is the best way to preserve wildlife habitats?
What steps should be taken to reduce air pollution?

Opinion Debate Topics

Should teachers be allowed to have cell phones in the classroom?
Do violent video games lead to aggressive behavior?
Are organic foods really better for you than non-organic foods?
Does the internet make people more productive?
Is it ethical to clone animals and humans?

Political Debate Topics

There should be a monarchical system in the United States
Causes of increasing racism in the United States.
Nuclear weapons should be banned across the globe.
Police should be allowed to use lethal force.
Are men stronger than women?
Religion does more harm than good.
Why can it be done to stop wars?
Is the Paris Agreement relevant anymore?
Monarchy should end worldwide.
Everyone should be allowed to keep weapons.
Free speech is an individual right.
Religious schools and churches should also be charged with taxes.
Is freedom of speech necessary for a nation to grow?
What should be the penalty for illegal immigrants?
There should be more members of the jury.
Refugees should not be allowed to acquire any sort of nationality.
Is it ethical to carry an automatic weapon?
Is patriotism a good or a bad thing?
Is the US Constitution a living document?
Political campaigns must be organized on money borrowed by corporations.
Limiting terms for US senators and representatives brings more harm than benefit.
Why should churches pay more taxes?
Police should use deadly force. Discuss why.
Why must the royal family be abolished?
People should own guns. Why?
Why are automatic weapons legalized?
Voting should be made mandatory for everyone.
Importance of freedom of speech.
Public Forum Debate Topics
Abortion is the right of every woman.
Genetic engineering is not a natural process and should not be legalized.
Birth control pills should be accessible to teenagers.
There should be an equal ratio of male and female employees in the workplace.
Barbie is not a practical example of a role model.
Feminism is causing more harm than good.
Marijuana has its advantages.
The MeToo movement is being misused, forgetting its real purpose.
The media should be free to express their opinions and criticism.
Public prayer should not be allowed in schools.
Smoking should be banned worldwide.
The form of government should provide free birth control.
Can we trust banks?
Financial issues destroy a nation.
Is taxation good or bad?
How can humans affect animals?
Discuss the importance of financial stability.
We should lower the voting age for everyone.
Mobile banking is not a safe procedure. Why?
How badly can peer pressure affect an innocent soul?
Models are setting the wrong standards of beauty.
We are living in a dystopian society.

Questions Debate Topics

Does technology have the potential to do more harm than good?

Religion Debate Topics

What is the importance of religion in society?
Should religious education be mandatory in all schools?
Sports should be an essential part of middle school.

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Television Debate Topics

Should parents be more mindful of the television programs their children watch?
Are reality shows detrimental to our society?

Urbanization Debate Topics

What are the effects of rapid urbanization on the environment?

Veganism Debate Topics

Is veganism a more ethical lifestyle choice than eating meat?
Should veganism be promoted as an ethical diet choice?
Women's Rights Debate Topics
Are women still discriminated against in the workplace?
Xenophobia Debate Topic
What can be done to tackle the rising xenophobia in many parts of the world?
Youth Empowerment Debate Topics
Should youth empowerment programs be adopted at a global level?

Zero Waste Debate Topics

Can zero-waste policies help protect our environment?

Best Debate Topics for Students

Crafting an argumentative essay or preparing for a debate? Below we have compiled some great topics for debate competition;

Debate Topics for Kids

The curriculum should be designed according to the individual needs of the children.
Physical activities and real-life teaching skills should be mandatory in schools.
Visits to zoological and botanical gardens are great fun and educational activities for kids.
Sports should be encouraged at the school level.
Children should be given the right to vote.
School hours should be revised.
School lunches should be properly planned by a dedicated dietician.
Parents should give a weekly allowance to the kids.
Parents should be held responsible for their kids' mistakes.
Dance can be considered a sport.
Schools should block sites like YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram on their computers.
Why should we encourage students to read books?
How can we replace teachers with computers?
Why are the Olympics important?
Are zoos beneficial to animals?
Why is it important to explore space?
Do children really need privacy in their lives?
Why should children save their pocket money?
Parents should be punished if their child makes a mistake.

Debate Topics for Teens

The minimum wage for all countries should be the same.
Parents should not hit children in front of others.
Censorship is necessary for the media.
Passion or patriotism can be harmful in certain situations.
How social media affects teenagers?
Social media is a cause of increasing depression among the youth.
The use of drugs should be considered a mental issue.
How is peer pressure different from bullying?
How are humans destroying the habitat of animals?
Being too religious can be dangerous.
Can people save nature by using technology?
Are student loans exploitative?
Alcohol should not be sold on weekends.
How secure is mobile banking?
Does homework really promote learning?
Is abortion murder?
Should students be allowed to create their own curriculum?
Why is a college and university education necessary?
Teachers should be allowed to carry guns on campuses.
How should modern society respond to teenage pregnancies?
All students must learn at least one foreign language.

Debate Topics for Middle School

Following middle school debate topics are added to give you some good debate topics for middle school.
Peer pressure is a major influence on teenage behavior.
Should parents be held responsible for their children’s actions?
Cell phone usage should be banned in schools.
Teachers should use more technology in the classroom.
Students should not have to wear uniforms.
Schools should teach about financial literacy and budgeting.
Violence in video games leads to increased aggression.
The legal drinking age should be lowered from 21.
Juvenile offenders should serve their sentences in adult prisons.
Sexting should carry criminal penalties for minors.
Schools need more money for extracurricular activities.
Is it okay to criticize your teacher in public?

Debate Topics for High School

High school debate topics are less profound than what you get in college and graduation. The following topics will give you an idea of how to come up with interesting debate topics for your debate.

In high school, should all students have to pass a basic math proficiency test?
Should parents be held liable if their children commit crimes?
Should violent video games be banned?
Do the benefits of religious teachings outweigh their disadvantages?
Are single-parent homes better than dual-parent homes?
Should students participate in sports activities during school hours?
Should schools provide free sanitary supplies in bathrooms?
Are standardized tests a valid measure of student performance?
Should cell phones be allowed in the classroom?
Should students be graded on attendance alone?
Is it right to limit free speech on college campuses?
Are video games taking away from social activities or helping to build them?
Should school uniforms be mandatory?
Should the death penalty be abolished in all countries?
Is it ethical to use animals for testing medical treatments?
Should students be paid for their academic performance?
Should plastic straws and other single-use items be banned?

Debate Topics for College Students

How can homework help to abolish learning skills?
Why should religion be avoided to discuss in schools?
Is history an important subject area?
Why is it important for students to play sports regularly?
Boarding school is harmful to the mental health of the students.
Obesity in children is increasing because of parents’ lack of control over their children.
Children should not be allowed to use gadgets.
There should be no advertisements on kids’ channels.
People should be fined according to their income.
Can drug addicts deal through help or punishment?
Rich people should pay more taxes.
Women should be paid less than men,
Wars are never justified.
Marriage is no longer necessary.
Celebrities should earn less.

Are you a high school student seeking the best possible debating format ? This blog will provide you with all of the information to make an informed decision.

Latest Debate Topics 2023

Here are some current debate topics for your next debate;

Education is becoming costlier with every passing day while the quality is not improving.
Children and teens in underprivileged neighborhoods should be given free education.
The rise of augmented reality in contemporary Hollywood and its results.
Video games and animated movies are promoting violence and sexism.
Google is transforming into an online patrol. Discuss.
Orwell’s novel 1984 is becoming a quick reality. Discuss and explain with examples.
Dating in the workplace should be discouraged.
Parents should monitor their kid’s computer and phone usage.
Racial profiling is a new form of discrimination.
Reasons for substance abuse in high school and college-going children.
Values or wealth? Which one is necessary to survive?
There is no third gender.
Homosexual relationships are against nature.
Do drug addicts need help or punishment?
Are animal supports acceptable?
Parental support is essential for the future success of children.
Technology makes people smarter. How?
How can all cars become electric?
A robot can increase people’s quality of life.
Discuss the recent development in the technological field.
The public electoral college should be tuition-free.
All teachers should get tenure.
All school districts should offer school vouchers.
The sale of human organs should be legalized.
Birth control should be for sale over the counter.
Net neutrality should be restored.
Alternative energy can effectively replace fossil fuels.
Cell phone radiation is dangerous and should be limited.
Euthanasia should be banned.
The drinking age should be 18.
Vaping should be banned.
All high school athletes should be drug tested.
Detention should be abolished.
How can we improve the quality of healthcare services?
How should parents handle a bad report card?
Our privacy is more important than national security.
Why is football so dangerous for players?

Dos and Don'ts for Debating

When taking part in debate, it is important to keep the following helpful do’s and dont’s in mind.

Here are several best practices to keep in mind when debating:
Prepare in advance and research the topic.
Consider both sides of the argument and present a balanced view.
Use evidence and facts to support your opinions.
Listen carefully to the opponent’s point of view.
Respectfully disagree with what you don’t agree with.
Be prepared to compromise.

Here are several things to avoid when debating:

Argue for the sake of arguing without any concrete evidence.
Get personal or use offensive language.
Monopolize the conversation or interrupt others.
Be too emotional about the topic.
Ignore what the other person is saying.
Make assumptions or jump to conclusions.

By keeping these dos and don'ts in mind, one can have an effective debate on any given topic.

To wrap it up, Hopefully, you would have found interesting topics for your debate by now.

Once you have chosen a topic, you will have to prepare a strong debate by researching every aspect of the topic. Is that too much work for you?

Don’t panic; we have a good idea. Choose a topic from the given list and hire a professional writer from an essay writing service to do the rest for you.

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5StarEssays.com is the place for you. All you have to do is provide your topic along with the instructions, and the expert writers will do the job for you. Or you an add your topic to our AI essay generator , and it will do the rest.

However, for some students, composing a debate is harder than selecting a topic. We can help you with that as well.

Make a ‘ write my essay ’ request now and get your debate written according to your requirements.

Cordon. is a published author and writing specialist. He has worked in the publishing industry for many years, providing writing services and digital content. His own writing career began with a focus on literature and linguistics, which he continues to pursue. Cordon is an engaging and professional individual, always looking to help others achieve their goals.

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150+ Debate Topics To Spark Conversations & Conquer Minds

Debating has long been a vital part of human culture, helping us sharpen our critical thinking and shaping our beliefs. Regardless of your skills, engaging in debates is a great way to learn and grow.

However, the success of a debate depends on the right topic. Choosing the perfect debate topics is super important to make the conversation exciting. Finding a strong topic for your debate can be tricky.

Dive into this article where we have compiled a diverse list of debate topics for you. We also explore the art of topic selection, the purpose of debate, and tips for a winning performance.

Table of Contents

Interesting Debate Topics for College Students

Can a college degree assist with better employment opportunities?
Incorporating more AI-powered education is better for the future generation.
Is online paper writing service necessary to respond to the increasing academic workload and pressure college students face?
Mandatory nature education for all students, regardless of their major
Should colleges invest in developing online assignment help platforms to ensure quality and academic integrity?
Is it justified to impose a tuition fee for college education?
Should we compensate college athletes for their participation in sports?
Is affirmative action in college admissions necessary to promote diversity and equality?
Should colleges offer free mental health services to all students?
Is it fair for colleges to consider an applicant’s social media presence in the admissions process?
Should colleges prioritize vocational and trade programs over traditional academic degrees?
Should colleges implement stricter speech codes and restrictions to create a more inclusive and respectful campus environment?
Is a liberal arts education still relevant and valuable in today’s job market?

Interesting and Controversial Debate Topics

Should we permit abortion as a regular medical practice?
Should human cloning be allowed?
Is Animal testing ethical?
Should society grant animals the same rights as humans?
Should people give up their privacy rights to protect their nation?
Is animal testing necessary?
Is animal cloning ethical?
Is it justified to ban books under any circumstances?
Can we actively prevent cyberbullying?
Is the MeToo movement currently stirring controversy?
Why do students actively engage in smoking initiation?
Are fast-food chains the main cause behind the growing rate of obesity?
Should terminally ill patients have the right to request and receive assistance in ending their lives?
Should governments have the authority to regulate social media platforms to address issues such as misinformation, hate speech, and privacy concerns?
Is capital punishment an effective deterrent against crime?
Has “Censorship” benefited society in any way?

Debate Topics For High-School Students

Can schools prohibit their students from using certain social media platforms?
Impact of social media on high-school Students’ mental health
More students should volunteer for community work
Schools should prohibit the use of personal gadget in class
Is the prevalence of cheap essay writing services a reflection of flaws in the education system?
Which is a better learning experience for students: online classes vs. traditional
Which is more beneficial for high schoolers: outdoor learning or indoor learning
Do homeworks contribute to a student’s learning experience?
Should students have a lunch break and a separate recess to relax?
Students excel more when allowed to attend more subject-oriented fairs and expos.
Are high school students more frequently subjected to online stalking?
Is it easy for most students to open up to their parents about any harassment cases?
Do students need proper training from school professionals and parents to identify predators online?

Unique Topics for University Students

Does APA heading structure have any special impact on the academic writing quality?
Free speech vs. safe speech on university campus
The value of liberal art education in today’s job market
The importance of sustainability and environmental awareness in university policies
Role of extracurricular activities in university education
Et al. meaning in academic writing: is it necessary or redundant?
The effectiveness of affirmative action in university admission
The necessity of student loan forgiveness programs

Political Debate Topics

Should the United States transition to a socialist system collectively?
The government still neglects minor disabilities.
Are current government policies and actions sufficient to combat the effects of climate change?
How to approach the global refugee crisis: including issues of border control, asylum policies, and international cooperation
Can governments address the growing wealth gap?
Rise of populist movements and growing political polarization, and how can societies address the resulting divisions and strengthen democratic institutions?
The imposition of the same-sex marriage agenda upon individuals should be avoided.
Rise of authoritarian governments and their impact on human rights, democracy, and global stability
The feminist movement no longer talks about women’s rights
Gay couples should be able to adopt children

Topics to Debate on Environment

Alternative energy: Is it a better option than traditional courses of energy?
Should we ban bottled water to minimize the Plastic waste?
Does Climate change pose a real threat to human existence?
Does climate change impact humans in a negative way?
Should people fund animal research institutes?

Debate Topics on Ethics

Should ethical considerations play a role in business decisions?
Should we encourage the use of cell phones in public places?
Is it ethical to use AI in the decision-making process?
Is it unethical to have different viewpoints from your teachers?
Why has the use of Facebook not been prohibited despite the revelation of user exploitation?

Easy Debate Topics on Education

Should schools make it compulsory for every student to contribute in debate contests?
Should schools invite professionals for informative speeches more often?
Should schools arrange for more motivational speakers to visit schools?
Should schools provide a separate class for public speaking for students to combat social or stage anxiety
Should educational curriculums have religious subjects in them?
Do student dress codes help achieve anything in a student’s overall upbringing?
School cafeterias should not have junk food in them
There should be monthly wellness and cleanliness checks of school cafes from higher authorities or the government
Should schools allow students to use mobile phones within school premises?
The perceived value of virtual degrees in comparison to traditional degrees
Should victims of school violence and bullying sue their educational institutes for physical and mental damages?
Should schools provide educational bonuses?
Schools should make monthly psychological evaluations necessary
Schools should encourage AI-powered education for all subjects
Educational institutes should invest more in subject-oriented fairs and expos
Schools need to take students on more sight trips for a better learning experience
More educational institutes should offer educational bonuses.

Conversational Debate Topics

Should society decriminalize the usage of drugs?
Video games induce violent behavior in children
Does the television series “Euphoria” idealize or glorify self-destructive behavior?
Should CPS get involved in cases of school violence?
Is Barbie a good role model for impressionable girls?
Has society benefited more from social media?
Should society ban Zoos?
Do Netizens really assist authorities in solving true crime cases?
Has technology intensified human communication?
Does reading books hold significant importance?
Does violence in cartoons affect the upbringing of children
Should governments implement a universal basic income to address income inequality and poverty?
Should we ban games like “IGI”, “Grand Theft Auto”, “Call of Duty”, or “Delta Force”?
Do shows like “ The Glory ” and “13 Reasons Why” make any impact against the physical and mental turmoils students face?
What is the most effective method to attain financial literacy?
Should society lower the official voting age to 16?
Should minimum wages be increased in accordance with inflation?
Public speaking can give you a boost of confidence
Cons of using social media
Does global warming have serious effects on humanity
Does financial wealth yield greater benefits than moral values?
What transpires after the occurrence of death?

What is a Debate?

A debate is a structured discussion between individuals or teams with contrasting viewpoints on a specific issue. Most debates aim to persuade an audience to support one side.

They explore various subjects, including philosophy, politics, social sciences etc. Usually, debate contests occur in academic settings. But it may also occur in legislative assemblies, public meetings, and law-making assemblies.

Debate is a contest of ideas, often occurring in academic institutes, legislative assemblies, public meetings, and lawmaking assemblies. It involves defending a viewpoint that one agrees with.

Types of Debates:

Debates come in various formats, each with its unique structure and style. Understanding these types of debates will help you choose the right debate topics. And navigate the world of intellectual discussions with ease. Let’s explore some popular debate formats:

Rebuttal Debate

In rebuttal debates, participants present their arguments and then have the opportunity to respond directly to the opposing side’s points. These debates encourage quick thinking and sharp analytical skills.

Example of a rebuttal debate:

The 1960 Kennedy-Nixon presidential debate, both candidates had the chance to refute each other’s arguments.

Lincoln-Douglas Debate

Named after the historic debates between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas, this format typically focuses on values and philosophical issues. In Lincoln-Douglas debates, participants emphasize logic, ethics, and philosophy when discussing debate topics.

The original Lincoln-Douglas debates of 1858, centered around the issue of slavery, are prime examples of this format.

One-Rebuttal Debate

In one-rebuttal debates, each speaker has only one chance to refute the opposing side’s arguments. This format demands strong initial arguments and strategic thinking.

Example of one-rebuttal debate:

The 2012 U.S. vice-presidential debate between Joe Biden and Paul Ryan. In this debate both debaters had limited opportunities to counter each other’s points.

Public Forum Debate

Public forum debates focus on current events and involve teams of two speakers. These debates aim to engage the audience and make complex issues accessible to a broader audience.

For example: A 2014 Intelligence Squared U.S. debate showcases a public forum debate. The subject was contemporary on whether “Snowden was justified”.

Cross-Examination Debate

Also known as policy debate, cross-examination debates involve two teams that propose and oppose a specific policy. Participants must research and prepare extensively, as they need to defend their stance and question their opponents effectively.

The annual National Debate Tournament showcases the best cross-examination debate topics and performances.

Oregon-Oxford Debate

The Oregon-Oxford debate format features two teams with two to three speakers each. Debaters present their arguments in alternating speeches, followed by cross-examination.

A prominent example of Oregon-Oxford debate is the 2015 Munk Debate on the global refugee crisis

Understanding these different debate formats will help you choose good debate topics. These topics will best suit the structure and style of your desired intellectual exchange.

Significance of the Right Debate Topics.

Picking the right debate topics is essential because it sets the stage for an engaging and thought-provoking conversation. A strong topic captures everyone’s interest, sparks lively discussions, and challenges debaters to think deeply and present persuasive arguments.

You should analyze several factors about a topic before preparing for a debate.

Is the chosen topic worthy of debate?
Is there enough research material available for you to organize an argument?
Are you interested in the topic?
Will the topic impact your audience?

So, the next time you’re picking a topic consider checking all these boxes.

How to Choose Good Debate Topics? A Quick Guide

Here is a quick guide on how to pick your next debate topic for an epic win. These simple steps will help you find one that’s engaging and thought-provoking:

Your Interest: Choose debate topics that genuinely interest you. Your passion for the subject will make your arguments more compelling and motivate you throughout the debate.
Proper Research: Explore various debate topics and gather information on them. Look for topics with abundant resources, making building strong arguments easier and staying well-informed.
Your Target Audience : Consider the interests and preferences of your audience. Select debate topics that will resonate with them and spark their curiosity.
Argument Potential: Pick debate topics allowing diverse perspectives and strong arguments. This will ensure a lively and engaging debate, encouraging critical thinking and intellectual growth.
Controversy and Relevance : Opt for debate topics that address current or controversial issues. These topics generate more interest and provoke deeper discussions, as they often have real-world implications and affect people’s lives.
Balance and Fairness: Ensure that the debate topics you choose allow for a fair and balanced debate. Both sides should have equal opportunities to present strong arguments and valid points, making the debate more engaging and intellectually stimulating.

Tips and Techniques to SpellBound Your Audience

In this blog’s last part, we will touch on some tips for delivering a strong debate. By following these tips and techniques, you’ll be well-equipped to deliver a winning debate on various topics.

Prepare thoroughly: Confidence and believability come from being well-prepared. Research your debate topics and anticipate your and your opponent’s arguments.
Stay on topic: Time is limited, so focus on your points and allocate appropriate time for each.
Speak slowly and clearly: Avoid rushing through your speech. Engage your audience by being charismatic and amicable.
Exude confidence: Even if you feel nervous, maintain confidence to appear credible and knowledgeable about your debate topics.
Mind your body language: Use gestures, maintain eye contact, and adopt a relaxed posture to convey confidence and credibility.
Engage your audience: Observe your audience’s reactions and adjust your tone or content accordingly to keep them interested.
Take notes during the debate: Jot down your opponent’s points and potential rebuttals to stay organized and focused.
Anticipate your opponent’s arguments: Try to understand your opponent’s perspective and show your audience why your stance matters more.
Use stories and illustrations: Humor and anecdotes can help break the ice and make your debate topics more relatable.
Conclude strongly: Summarize your points and tie everything together in a memorable closing statement.
Be graceful: Refrain from resorting to low tactics. Like derogatory remarks or disruptive behavior. Ensure that you treat your opponent with the utmost respect.
Keep it interesting: Adapt your delivery based on audience feedback. Add anecdotes, and maintain a light tone to keep your debate topics engaging.

Conclusion:

We’re confident that our diverse selection of debate topics will leave you spoilt for choice. With so many options, you can find the perfect topic that ticks all your boxes. Our seasoned professionals are ready to lend a helping hand in crafting the most compelling debates out there. Elevate your debating game with our expert guidance. Rest assured that we’re committed to delivering nothing but the best for our valued customers. So, dive into these debate topics and let the engaging conversations begin!

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Writing Tips

50 Argumentative Essay Topics for Students

4-minute read

11th June 2022

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

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

● Does texting hinder interpersonal communication skills?

● Should there be laws against using devices while driving?

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

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

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

● Is AI helping or hurting society?

● Should cyber-bullying carry legal consequences?

● Should Supreme Court justices be elected?

● Is war always a political decision?

● Should people join a political party?

● Is capitalism ethical?

● Is the electoral college an effective system?

● Should prisoners be allowed to vote?

● Should the death penalty be legal?

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

● Is healthcare a fundamental human right?

● Should vaccinations be mandated for children?

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

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

● Should abortion be legal?

● Is it ethical to perform medical experiments on animals?

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

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

Mental Healthcare

● What causes the stigma around mental health?

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

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

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

● Discuss the effect of physical activity on mental health.

● Should sports be segregated by gender?

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

● Are professional athletes overpaid?

● Should college athletes be paid?

● Should sports betting be legal?

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

● Should graffiti be considered art or vandalism?

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

● Should schools be required to offer art courses?

● Is art necessary to society?

● Should schools require uniforms?

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

● Do standardized tests effectively measure intelligence?

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

● Should higher education be free?

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

● Are children better off in two-parent households?

● Should LGBTQ+ partners be allowed to adopt?

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

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

● Does helicopter parenting help or hurt children?

● Should parents monitor their children’s Internet use?

Proofreading & Editing

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

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160 Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Students in 2024

April 3, 2024

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

What is an Argumentative Essay?

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

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

Introduction
Supporting body paragraphs
Paragraph(s) addressing common counterarguments

Argumentative Essay Format

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

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

How to Write an Effective Argumentative Essay, Step by Step

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

Tips for Revising an Argument Essay

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

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

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

Family argumentative essay topics.

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

Education Argument Essay Topics

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

Government Argumentative Essay Topics

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

Health/Bioethics Argumentative Essay Topics

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

Good Argumentative Essay Topics — Continued

Social media argumentative essay topics.

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

Religion Argument Essay Topics

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

Science Argument Essay Topics

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

Sports Argument Essay Topics

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

Technology Argumentative Essay Topics

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

Business Argument Essay Topics

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

In Conclusion – Argument Essay Topics

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

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

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

Lauren Green

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

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52 Argumentative Essay Ideas that are Actually Interesting

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

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

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

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

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

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

Convincing Thesis Statement

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

Ample Research

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

Clear Structure

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

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

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

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

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

Art / Culture

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

Where to Get More Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

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

Interesting and Great Debate Topics (2024)

12 min read

Published on: Jan 13, 2022

Last updated on: Jan 31, 2024

Debate Topics for Kids

These are some great debate topics for grade 4 and 5:

Is it possible for computers to replace teachers?
Significance of exploring the space
How are zoos more harmful than good for animals?
Olympics and its importance for the athletes
Should parents be punished for the mistakes that their children make?
Significance of saving money
Should children be given space or privacy?
Are social networking sites addictive?
Do aliens really exist?
Should every student play a musical instrument in school?

Debate Topics for Middle School Students

Here are some good discussion topics for the students of middle school.

Every person should have a pet.
The impact of peer pressure is greater on self-conscious students
All schools should ban homework.
School uniforms should be banned in every school.
Soda and fizzy drinks should be banned in college cafes.
PE should be made mandatory for every student in high school.
All middle school students should take part in community service programs.
Schools should not allow corporal punishments.
Censorship is important on the internet in school.
Junk food should be banned by the government in schools.

Debate Topics for Grade 6

Allowing chewing gum in class
Physical books versus e-books
Longer recess periods in schools
Wearing hats or caps in school
Studying alone versus in groups
Eating snacks during class
Having a class pet or not
Choosing seats in the classroom
Listening to music during class
Shorter versus longer school days

High School Debate Topics

High school debate topics are a bit more complex than the topics of middle school. Here's a list of debate topics that is suitable for every high school student:

Human cloning should be banned.
Animal testing should be strictly banned.
Violent video games should be banned by the government.
There should be a limit on freedom of speech.
The death penalty should be abolished.
Animal abuse in the circus should be banned.
Underage girls should be allowed to abort their unplanned children.
Progressive tax rates are not justified.
Marijuana should be considered a social offense and a crime.
YouTube should be blocked on the school premises.

Debate Topics for College Students

As a college student, you could be looking for social topics for discussion or just some technical things to discuss. Hereâs a list of topics that will help you pick an appropriate topic:

What would you rather choose: rich and dishonest or poor and honest?
There are no plausible reasons for the war on terror.
How are alternative sources of energy effective?
Books are more entertaining and informative than TV.
Public schooling is more effective than homeschooling.
Abortion is ethically legal but not morally.
The increase in the rate of unemployment is due to advancements in technology.
Same-sex marriages should be banned and should not be legalized anywhere.
Adoption is better than bearing kids.
Prostitution is the crime and the only reason behind the increased rate of HIV/AIDs.

Debate Topics For Teens

Homework should be banned.
Is there any reason to raise minimum wages?
Students should not be allowed to use Facebook.
Social media does more harm than good.
Why is it so hard for women to become president?
There should be children and teenagers in government.
Should cigarettes be banned from society?
Should marijuana be legalized?
Are cell phones safe?
Whatâs the best pizza topping?

Debate Topics For Adults

Internet service should be legally given to the citizens by the government of the US.
The democratic government is the best form of government.
There should be heavy fines on people who do not recycle.
Poetry should be made part of the curriculum for every student.
The grading criteria of the schools should be amended.
Celebrities do not make good role models.
The increased crime rate in the country is due to an increased rate of immigrants.
Sex education should be made part of the curriculum.
The criminal justice system of the United States is ineffective.
Propaganda is the tool used by politicians to manipulate the masses.

Controversial Debate Topics

Controversial topics make the best debates. The following are some controversial debate topics for you:

Selling alcohol on weekends should be banned.
Unlicensed pharmacists should be allowed to prescribe medicines.
The government should ban animal testing.
Public speaking is the only way to boost a childâs communication skills.
Students should not be allowed to play violent video games.
Lack of trust in relationships results in jealousy.
A man should raise a child equally as a woman does.
It is important to punish parents for the misdeed of their kids.
Traditional health care is better than herbal medication.
Pros and cons of mercy killing.

Good Debate Topics About Education

Educational topics always work. If you cannot find any topic for your debate, choose from the below-mentioned list.

To get a good job it is important to have a degree.
The skill-based study is better than scientific study.
Sports should be made mandatory in every school and college.
Science and the arts are equally important subjects.
Homework gives undue pressure to students.
No religion should be taught in school.
Boarding schools are important for students who are not sharp and intelligent.
For better learning of students, outdoor learning is important.
Mobile phones should be confiscated from all students in the school.
History is an important subject to study in school.

Political Debate Topics

Every person should own a gun to protect himself.
Britain should not be a part of the European Union.
Communism is a better ideology than socialism.
In a democratic government, there should be a limit on freedom of speech.
International relations are affected by patriotism.
Politics should be taught in schools.
Citizens who do not vote should be fined.
Monarchy should be abolished in Britain.
Illegal immigrants should be punished as criminals.
The voting age should be lowered to 16.

Social Debate Topics

Drinking age: lower or raise?
Homeschooling versus traditional schooling
Free healthcare for all citizens?
Minimum wage: increase or decrease?
Gun control: necessary or not?
Limits on political campaign donations?
Censorship of music and movies
Legalizing recreational marijuana
Affirmative action in college admissions?
Is it ethical to have a wealth tax?

Funny Debate Topics

Keep reading to discover funny debate topics for adults in 2023.

American Idol is better than X-Factor.
Dogs are better pets than cats.
The chicken came first and then eggs.
Thin crust pizza is better than a thick crust.
Winters are better than summer.
Harry Potter is better than Lord of the Rings.
It is easy to understand a woman.
If a vampire bites a person who has AIDs, will he get it too?
Can we party after death?
Females are a better gender.

Interesting Debate Topics

It is important to choose a debate topic that is interesting and engaging. The following are some really interesting topics:

Standardized testing is not an effective method to determine a studentâs intelligence.
The nuclear powers of the world are responsible for wars.
What does it mean to âbear armsâ?
Homosexual relationships are against nature.
Children are depending on technology way too much.
Parents should restrict the use of the internet at home.
Money is the only source of motivation in practical life.
Censorship on educational documentaries is important.
All non-biodegradable should be banned.
Who selects the electoral college?

Sport Debate Topics

Is paintball a real sport?
Should advertising be allowed in sports?
Should steroids be legalized and monetized?
Who's the best team ever?
The Olympics are a waste of money.
Should women be allowed to compete against men?
Is there growth in boxing?
The history of using math in baseball
Men coaches shouldnât work with women athletes.
Is winning everything?

Social Media Debate Topics

Social media is the reason behind every bad thing in society.
The media has been replaced by social media.
The impact of social media on youth
Has social media killed our privacy?
Social media promotes violence in society
Pros and cons of using social media.
Should Facebook add a âdislikeâ button?
Is social media helpful?
Social media and its usage
Ban on social media sites

Technology Debate Topics

All cars should be electric.
Does technology make people lazy?
Developing alternative forms of energy
Is space travel worth the cost?
Do you like Apple products?
What is the best gaming system?
How to deal with increasing cybercrime?
What is the future of the internet?
Are mobile games so bad for kids?
Technology and its usage in daily life

Creative Debate Topics

Junk food should not be available at the cafeterias
Cooking classes should be made compulsory in schools
All children should be allowed to keep a cell phone
Playing video games is good for kids
The grading system of the schools should be abolished.
Parents should attend parenting classes.
Co-education schools are better for education.
The government can restrict freedom of speech if needed.
Democracy is the best policy for every government.
Students should learn to recycle things.

Science Debate Topics

Should we be genetically engineering humans?
Is there life on other planets?
Are self-driving cars safe?
How can science do without animal testing?
Robots should have rights.
Evolution, a theory or a fact?
Are vaccines risky or safe for children?
Science and Islam
The new discovery of science
Science and human life

English Debate Topics

Reading classic literature in schools
Relevance of Shakespeare in today's society
Teaching cursive handwriting in schools
Allowing electronic devices in classrooms
English as the official language of the United States
Foreign language classes in schools
Grammar versus communication skills in education
Creative writing versus technical writing in education
American Sign Language as a second language in schools
Diverse authors and perspectives in literature education.

Environmental Debate Topics

Live animal exports should be banned
Use of bidet instead of tissue papers.
Is organic farming better than conventional farming?
The use of natural gas in vehicles
Climate change is the greatest threat in human history.
Fossil fuels vs. nuclear energy
Environmental pollution
Describe tidal energy
Environment and its impact

Silly Debate Topics For Friends

McDonald's is the best fast food restaurant.
Children must get a longer holiday.s
Is the grading system used in high school effective?
Obesity should be labeled a disease.
Coursework is better than exams.
Afternoon classes are better than the early morning classes.
The psychological climate of the classroom has a lot to do with a student's personality development.
People with higher incomes should be fined more.
Children under ten should not be allowed to use gadgets.
Abusive parents have children with personality issues.

General Debate Topics

Private schooling is better than public schooling.
Different languages should be taught in school.
Studying maths is more important than studying the language.
STD testing should be offered for free in all educational institutions.
The government should provide security to all college education systems.
Political and economic instability is the result of refugees in a country.
Illegal immigrants should be given the right to vote.
All sanctions should be lifted on Iran by the West.
It is important to have friendly relationships with neighboring countries.
Big corporations should pay more taxes.

Unique Debate Topics

Space exploration versus ocean exploration
More sustainability courses in schools
Ethics of animal testing
Limiting maximum income
Ethics of human cloning
Legalizing psychedelic drugs for medicine
Genetic engineering of human embryos
Censorship of the internet
Prioritizing climate change over economic growth
Selling organs for transplant.

Relationship Debate Topics

Are online relationships real?
Whatâs your opinion on experimenting in a relationship?
Should gay marriage be legalized?
Is there someone you would die for?
Is marriage necessary?
Is online dating advantageous?
Arranged marriage or love marriage?
Women marrying younger men
Would you consider remarriage if your spouse died?
Jealousy and love: is it justified?

Tips for Choosing a Good Debate Topic

Here are some tips for choosing a good debate topic:

Choose a topic that you and your audience are interested in and passionate about.
Pick a topic that has multiple viewpoints and arguments that can be made for both sides.
Consider choosing a topic that is relevant to current events or issues in your community or country.
Choose a topic that is not too broad or too narrow. Rather focused enough to be thoroughly debated within a set time frame.
Make sure the topic is appropriate for the age group and audience of the debate.
Pick a topic that is challenging but not too controversial or offensive.
Consider the resources and information available to support your argument.
Finally, make sure the debate topic is clear and easy to understand for all participants and the audience.

The topics provided above are some really good choices for your debate.

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125 Winning Debate Topics for Middle School Students

Teach students to make effective arguments.

When students learn to debate, they gain valuable life skills. Debates teach kids to research their topic, make informed choices, and argue effectively using facts instead of emotion. This list of middle school debate topics encompasses both serious and lighthearted ideas for kids ages 10 to 14. Each topic includes a link to an article from a reliable source that provides pros and/or cons to help kids make their arguments.

School and Education Debate Topics

Technology and entertainment debate topics, life and ethics debate topics, fun and funny debate topics.

Controversial Debate Topics
It’s better to be good at academics than to be good at sports.
Homework should be banned.
Schools should require all students to wear uniforms.
We should punish students for using curse words.
Year-round school is better for students.

Year-round school is better for students.- middle school debate topics

Schools should require physical education (gym class) through 12th grade.
All students should be required to volunteer in their community.
Junk food should be banned in schools.
All middle school students should learn a foreign language.
Single-gender schools are better for students.
Math is the most important school subject.
Letter grades should be abolished.
Teachers should be replaced by computers.
Students should be graded on their handwriting.
Kids who get better grades in school will be more successful in life.
Sometimes it’s OK to cheat on homework or a test.
Students who fail a test should be given the chance to take it again.
Students should be allowed to grade teachers.
Kids should be able to bring their pets to school.
Schools should give middle school students more recess time.

Schools should give middle school students more recess time.- middle school debate topics

The school day should be shorter.
Schools should eliminate dress codes.
College should be free for everyone who wants to attend.
Schools should be allowed to ban some books from their libraries.
Book smarts are better than street smarts.
All people should have free internet access.
Playing violent video games makes people more likely to be violent in real life.
Reality television depicts real life.
The minimum age to own a smartphone should be 16.

The minimum age to own a smartphone should be 16.

Students should be allowed to use phones in class.
Macs are better than PCs.
Androids are better than iPhones.
Kids under 13 should be allowed to use social media sites like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat.
Students should not be allowed to watch TV on school nights.
Social media does more harm than good.
Video games are better than board games.
Reading books is better than watching TV.
All paper documents should be replaced with electronic versions.
Books are always better than the movies that are made from them.
Parents should use their kids’ cell phones to track where they are.
Playing video games makes you smarter.

Playing video games makes you smarter.- middle school debate topics

Scientists should try to develop a way for everyone to live forever.
Paper books are better than e-books.
Schools should have surveillance cameras in classrooms and hallways.
Movie ratings (G, PG, PG-13, and R) should be done away with.
Professional athletes and celebrities deserve to make more money than the average person.
People have a responsibility to help one another out.
No one should ever tell a lie.
Girls face more peer pressure than boys.
We should lower the voting age to 12.
Every member of a family should have daily chores.
All museums and zoos should be free to everyone.
All people should be vegetarians.

Democracy is the best form of government.
All Americans should be required to vote.
Cigarette smoking and vaping should be banned entirely.
Parents should be allowed to read their children’s private diaries.
Giving is better than receiving.
Receiving a regular allowance is good for kids.
Parents should be punished for their children’s mistakes.
Real Christmas trees are better than artificial ones.
We should not keep animals in zoos.
All kids should play on the same sports teams, regardless of gender.
It is better to save some of your allowance than to spend it all.
Kids should be allowed to stay up as late as they want.
Happiness is more important than success.
The driving age should be lowered to 14.

The driving age should be lowered to 14.- middle school debate topics

We should completely ban plastic bottles.
Parents should have to take a parenting class before having a child.
If you find money on the ground, it’s automatically yours to keep.
It is better to be kind than to be truthful.
All kids should have a playground or park within walking distance of their home.
Kids should be allowed to have credit cards.
It’s important to spend money exploring space.
All families should have a pet.
Dogs are better pets than cats.
Summer is better than winter.
Pepperoni is the best pizza topping.
Teachers shouldn’t give rewards and prizes in the classroom.
Clowns are more scary than funny.
Every home should have a robot.
There is intelligent life on other planets.

There is intelligent life on other planets.

The egg came before the chicken.
Pop music is better than classical music.
Xbox is better than PlayStation.
Peanut butter is better than Nutella.
Football is better than soccer.
Everyone should make their bed every day.
It would be better to be able to fly than to be able to turn invisible.
Harry Potter is better than The Lord of the Rings .
Pluto should still be considered a planet.
Santa Claus’ elves should be paid minimum wage.
Hot chocolate is better than a chocolate milkshake.
Fruit counts as dessert.
People should be allowed to go barefoot anywhere if they want to.
Fiction is better than nonfiction.

Everyone should learn to play a musical instrument.
Werewolves are more dangerous than vampires.
Kids shouldn’t have to go to school on their birthdays.

Controversial Middle School Debate Topics

These middle school debate topics are pretty contentious and might not be appropriate for all students or every classroom. But if your middle schoolers are ready to take on more serious debates, try these important questions.

We should abolish the death penalty.
Stricter gun control laws help stop mass shootings.
It’s necessary to continue building a wall between the United States and Mexico.
Segregation still exist in the United States.
Religion does more harm than good.
We will never achieve world peace.
We shouldn’t allow young children to play contact sports like football.

We shouldn't allow young children to play contact sports like football.

Parents shouldn’t be allowed to pierce a baby’s ears.
Beauty pageants are sexist.
Kids shouldn’t get participation trophies for sports.
It’s possible to be an ethical hunter.
Some stereotypes are accurate.
People have a responsibility to step in when they see a crime in action.
War is sometimes necessary.
There are times when we must limit freedom of speech.
Security is more important than freedom.
We should do away with gender-specific public bathrooms.
Anyone over age 12 should be tried as an adult in court.
Electric vehicles are better than gas-powered ones.

Electric vehicles are better than gas-powered ones.

Our society has a harmful “diet culture.”
All countries should have to give up their nuclear weapons.
We should ban testing on animals.
We should ban the use of fossil fuels.
Human cloning should be legal.
Vaccines should be mandatory.

What are your favorite middle school debate topics? Come share in the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook .

Plus, check out 75 funny debate topics for kids of all ages ..

Looking for debate topics for middle school and junior high students? This roundup ranges from lighthearted to serious, ideal for any class.

People should be allowed to go barefoot anywhere they want.

75 Funny Debate Topics To Make Students Laugh (and Think!)

Thought-provoking humor. Continue Reading

High School Debate Topics

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Debates tend to instantly engage students, but they can also sharpen their research and public speaking skills. No matter your reasons for using them, having debates in your classroom is a sure way to get your students thinking and talking.

You may require your students to research topics before debating them or even prepare speeches to state their point of view. Learning how to productively debate will improve your students' communication skills as they practice speaking and listening. These skills will serve them in college and the diverse career world beyond.

Debate Topics

The following 50 debate topics can be used in high school or advanced middle school classrooms. They are organized by genre and some can be modified for use in different subjects. Each item is listed in the form of a question to propose to your students that has at least two points of view.

Watch Now: Ideas for Great Classroom Debate Topics

Science and technology.

Should human cloning be banned?
Should renewable forms of energy be subsidized by the government?
Should the U.S. government fund a space mission to Mars?
Should social media comments be protected by free speech?
Should parents be allowed to choose their baby's gender?
Should animal testing be banned?
Should the U.S. government provide internet service to every citizen?
Are video games too violent for children?
Should the manufacturing of nuclear weapons be permitted?

Laws and Politics

Is it ever appropriate for the government to restrict freedom of speech?
Is democracy the best form of government?
Should citizens who do not vote be fined?
Is the right to bear arms a necessary constitutional amendment today?
Should the legal voting/driving/drinking age be lowered or raised?
Should a border fence be constructed between the U.S. and Mexico?
Should America give foreign aid to other countries?
Should drone attacks against specific targets be used for modern warfare?
Should affirmative action be abolished?
Should the death penalty be abolished?
Should microaggressions be punishable by law?
Should the cruel treatment of animals be illegal?

Social Justice

Should partial-birth abortion be illegal?
Should all parents be required to attend parenting classes before having a child?
Should parents be required to vaccinate their children?
Should mixed martial arts be banned?
Should celebrities be required to be positive role models?
Should people be fined for not recycling?
Are progressive tax rates just?
Should performance-enhancing drugs be allowed in sports?
Should marijuana use be considered a crime?
Should every student be required to take a performing arts course?
Should homework be banned?
Should school uniforms be required?
Is year-round education is a good idea?
Should physical education be required of all high school students?
Should all students be required to perform community service?
Should schools block YouTube?
Should students be able to leave school grounds for lunch?
Are single-sex schools better for student learning and mental health?
Should schools punish cyberbullying that occurs outside of school?
Should teachers not be allowed to contact students through social media?
Should public prayer be allowed in schools?
Should high-stakes state testing be abolished?
Should poetry units be removed from the curriculum?
Is History (or another subject) actually an important subject in school?
Should schools be allowed to track students by academic level?
Should students be required to pass algebra to graduate?
Should students be graded on their handwriting?
Should all students be required to co-op?
Should the theory of creation be taught in schools?
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80 Funny Debate Topics

By Med Kharbach, PhD | Last Update: May 23, 2024

Debates are structured discussions where participants express varying opinions on a given topic. The importance of debate lies in its ability to foster critical thinking, enhance communication skills, and build confidence among participants. In today’s post, I compiled a wide variety of funny debate topics to spark lively discussions and laughter in the classroom. But before we dive into the topics, let’s explore some of the skills that children develop through debating.

I compiled all the debate questions in this post into a single PDF available for free download. It’s a handy resource for sparking engaging and fun discussions in your classroom.

Download Funny Debate Topics PDF for free

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Key Skills Developed Through Debating

Debate is a key practice for kids, incorporating it into their activities helps them develop various skills. The following are the key skills that children gain through debating:

Improve Critical Thinking : Help kids reason, analyze arguments, and question evidence effectively.
Enhance Self-Expression : Teach kids to articulate thoughts clearly and confidently in public.
Build Confidence : Overcome public speaking fears and improve communication skills.
Expand Knowledge : Encourage deep exploration of various topics and perspectives.
Boost Communication Skills : Emphasize the importance of delivery, emotions, and body language.

Funny Debate Topics

Now, let’s dive into the fun part! Below, you’ll find a carefully selected list of funny debate topics that are perfect for lightening the mood while still providing a fertile ground for critical thinking and public speaking practice. Whether you’re looking to spice up your classroom discussions or just want to bring a smile to your students’ faces, these topics are sure to do the trick. Let the debates begin!

1. Is a hot dog a sandwich?

This classic debate is sure to bring out passionate arguments from both sides, and it’s light-hearted enough to keep the mood fun.

2. Should pineapple be allowed on pizza?

Another food-related debate that people have surprisingly strong opinions about.

3. Are cats or dogs better pets?

A timeless topic that gets everyone involved, especially pet lovers.

4. Should cereal be considered a soup?

This one can get quite creative as students try to define what constitutes a soup.

5. Is it better to be a superhero or a wizard?

Great for engaging students’ imaginations and bringing out their inner nerds.

6. Should we replace all teachers with robots?

This can lead to some interesting (and funny) thoughts about the future of education.

7. Would you rather have a rewind button or a pause button in your life?

A fun way to get students thinking about the concept of time and life choices.

8. Are video games a sport?

Perfect for gamers and athletes to hash out their points of view.

9. Would you rather fight one horse-sized duck or 100 duck-sized horses?

A ridiculous but hilarious debate that tests students’ creativity and logic.

10. Is it better to be really smart or really funny?

Encourages students to reflect on different qualities and what they value more.

11. Is it acceptable to wear pajamas in public?

A light-hearted topic that can spark discussions about fashion and social norms.

12. Should homework be banned?

A perennial favorite among students that’s sure to get them talking.

Related: Examples of Critical Thinking Questions for Students

13. Would you rather always have to sing instead of speaking or dance everywhere you go?

This topic adds a fun, performative element to the debate.

14. Is it better to have an extra arm or an extra leg?

This one is great for getting students to think about practical and imaginative scenarios.

15. Should you eat dessert before dinner?

A sweet debate that challenges traditional meal structures.

16. Would you rather be able to talk to animals or speak every language in the world?

Engages students’ interest in animals and languages, making for a fun discussion.

17. Is it better to be a night owl or an early bird?

A relatable topic that can lead to humorous anecdotes and strong opinions.

18. Should students be allowed to grade their teachers?

Flips the usual dynamic and lets students think critically about education.

19. Would you rather have a constant itch or always feel like you have to sneeze?

Gross and funny, this topic is sure to elicit some strong reactions.

20. Is it better to always be 10 minutes late or 20 minutes early?

A topic that can lead to humorous examples and personal stories.

21. Should you put ketchup on a hot dog?

Another food-related debate that can get surprisingly heated.

22. Would you rather have unlimited pizza or unlimited ice cream for the rest of your life?

A deliciously tough choice that can lead to a fun discussion.

23. Should all cars be self-driving?

This can lead to funny scenarios about the future of transportation.

24. Is it better to have the power of flight or the power of invisibility?

A classic superpower debate with endless humorous possibilities.

25. Should people have to take a test to become parents?

A light-hearted take on a serious topic, sure to provoke interesting arguments.

26. Would you rather live in a world where everyone can only whisper or where everyone can only shout?

Imagining these scenarios can lead to some hilarious debates.

27. Is it better to be a dragon or have a dragon as a pet?

A whimsical topic that sparks creativity and fantasy.

28. Should we ban all reality TV shows?

This one can lead to funny critiques and defenses of popular shows.

29. Is it better to be always cold or always hot?

A relatable topic that can bring out personal preferences and funny stories.

30. Would you rather have a tail or wings?

A silly yet imaginative debate that encourages creative thinking.

31. Should toilet paper hang over or under the roll?

A surprisingly divisive topic that’s also light and fun.

32. Would you rather have the ability to teleport or the ability to time travel?

This topic allows for creative scenarios and funny “what-if” discussions.

33. Is it better to be super strong or super fast?

Another superpower debate that can lead to interesting arguments and humor.

34. Should you eat spaghetti with a spoon or a fork?

A simple yet surprisingly contentious topic.

35. Would you rather never have to sleep or never have to eat?

This can lead to amusing considerations of daily life without these necessities.

36. Should unicorns be the national animal?

A fantastical and funny topic that can lead to creative national pride.

37. Is it better to have a robot maid or a robot chef?

Encourages students to think about their daily lives and preferences.

38. Should everyone have a clone of themselves?

This can lead to hilarious discussions about the pros and cons of having a clone.

39. Would you rather always have to wear clown shoes or a clown wig?

A funny and silly debate topic that can lead to lots of laughs.

40. Is it better to always be hungry or always be tired?

A relatable debate that can lead to humorous anecdotes and preferences.

41. Should we replace all human jobs with robots?

A funny yet thought-provoking topic about the future of work.

42. Would you rather have to sing every word you speak or dance every time you move?

A playful debate that can lead to amusing scenarios.

Related: 50 Icebreaker Questions for Kids

43. Is it better to have a constant itch or a constant hiccup?

A gross and funny debate that’s sure to get strong reactions.

44. Should students be required to wear uniforms in school?

A classic topic that can lead to funny and creative arguments.

45. Would you rather live in space or underwater?

A fantastical debate that encourages imaginative thinking.

46. Is it better to be famous or rich?

A thought-provoking yet light-hearted topic that can lead to interesting discussions.

47. Should we have a national day dedicated to napping?

A funny and relatable topic that most students will enjoy debating.

48. Would you rather have a pet dinosaur or a pet alien?

A whimsical debate that sparks creativity and fun.

49. Is it better to live without music or without movies?

A challenging choice that can lead to passionate arguments.

50. Should we eliminate all sports and replace them with eSports?

A modern and funny debate topic that can lead to interesting points of view.

51. Should we have a law that requires everyone to take a daily nap?

A funny and relaxing idea that could spark interesting discussions.

52. Would you rather live in a world made of LEGO or a world made of gingerbread?

A whimsical debate that can lead to imaginative and humorous scenarios.

53. Should weekends be extended to three days?

A topic that most students will likely have strong (and humorous) opinions about.

54. Is it better to have a rewind button or a fast-forward button in life?

Encourages creative thinking about time and life experiences.

55. Should all movies be musicals?

A light-hearted debate that can lead to funny considerations of popular movies as musicals.

56. Would you rather have an endless supply of your favorite food or never gain weight from eating it?

A delicious debate that can lead to amusing arguments and personal preferences.

57. Is it better to always have perfect hair or perfect teeth?

A fun topic that can lead to humorous discussions about appearance and priorities.

58. Should superheroes have to register with the government?

A playful take on a serious topic, sure to provoke interesting (and funny) arguments.

59. Would you rather be able to talk to plants or understand animal languages?

Encourages creativity and fun discussions about communication with nature.

60. Is it better to be the best player on a losing team or the worst player on a winning team?

A thought-provoking topic that can lead to interesting personal stories and preferences.

61. Should everyone be required to learn how to juggle?

A humorous and skill-based debate that can lead to funny scenarios.

62. Would you rather have a magical remote control that can pause or mute people?

A fun debate that encourages imaginative thinking about everyday life.

63. Is it better to have a pet dragon or a pet unicorn?

A fantastical debate that sparks creativity and humor.

64. Should all buildings be made of glass?

A whimsical and slightly absurd debate that can lead to funny considerations.

65. Would you rather always have to wear a superhero costume or a fairy tale character costume?

A playful topic that can lead to amusing discussions about daily life in costumes.

66. Is it better to be able to breathe underwater or fly in the sky?

67. Should we replace all currency with chocolate coins?

A deliciously funny topic that can lead to interesting and creative arguments.

68. Would you rather always have to skip everywhere or dance everywhere?

A light-hearted debate that encourages funny mental images and scenarios.

69. Is it better to have an elephant-sized cat or a cat-sized elephant?

A whimsical and funny topic that can lead to creative and humorous arguments.

70. Should school start later in the day and end later in the evening?

A topic that many students will likely have strong (and humorous) opinions about.

71. Would you rather have a personal robot or a personal chef?

A fun debate that encourages thinking about daily life and convenience.

72. Is it better to always know the time or always know the weather?

A thought-provoking yet light-hearted topic that can lead to interesting arguments.

73. Should we have a holiday dedicated to playing video games?

A modern and funny debate topic that many students will enjoy.

74. Would you rather always speak in rhymes or sing everything you say?

A playful topic that can lead to amusing scenarios and discussions.

75. Is it better to have a superpower that only works on your birthday or one that works every day but only for an hour?

Encourages creative thinking and humorous considerations of superpowers.

76. Should we eliminate all homework and replace it with fun projects?

77. Would you rather live in a treehouse or a houseboat?

A whimsical debate that sparks imagination and fun discussions.

78. Is it better to have a head the size of a watermelon or the size of a tennis ball?

A silly and humorous debate that encourages creative thinking.

79. Should everyone be required to learn a musical instrument?

A fun topic that can lead to interesting arguments about music and education.

80. Would you rather have the ability to make plants grow faster or heal animals?

A thoughtful and imaginative debate that encourages consideration of nature and kindness.

Related: Spring Would You Rather Questions

Final thoughts

I hope you have found these funny debate topics both entertaining and valuable for fostering engaging discussions in your classroom. As I mentioned in the introduction, debates are not only an opportunity for students to express their opinions but also a chance for them to sharpen their critical thinking and communication skills. Embrace the practice and watch as your students grow both intellectually and personally.

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Meet Med Kharbach, PhD

Dr. Med Kharbach is an influential voice in the global educational technology landscape, with an extensive background in educational studies and a decade-long experience as a K-12 teacher. Holding a Ph.D. from Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax, Canada, he brings a unique perspective to the educational world by integrating his profound academic knowledge with his hands-on teaching experience. Dr. Kharbach's academic pursuits encompass curriculum studies, discourse analysis, language learning/teaching, language and identity, emerging literacies, educational technology, and research methodologies. His work has been presented at numerous national and international conferences and published in various esteemed academic journals.

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10 Surprising Facts About Memorial Day

M emorial Day began as a way to honor soldiers who died in the American Civil War, which claimed the lives of the most U.S. military personnel in history. Now, the holiday is celebrated to memorialize fallen U.S. troops of all conflicts.

To some Americans, this holiday also marks a three-day weekend, the beginning of summer, and various traditions. Here are some interesting and surprising facts about Memorial Day.

Memorial Day was originally called Decoration Day

After the end of the Civil War in 1865, the beginnings of Memorial Day lay in a celebration called Decoration Day, as community members, including those in the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR), a Union Veterans organization, visited the graves of the fallen Union soldiers in their hometown and decorated them with flowers.

“That's why it was at the end of May, because that’s when the springtime blooms, especially in Charleston, one of the cities that claims to have the first celebration, just weeks after General Lee surrendered and Abraham Lincoln was assassinated,” Dr. Joey Fink, Interim Chair and Assistant Professor of History at High Point University, tells TIME in a phone call.

Memorial Day is said to have began as a Southern holiday, celebrating African American Freedom

In May 1865, thousands of formerly enslaved Black community members in Charleston held a ceremony and parade at the site of a former racetrack, the Washington Race Course and Jockey Club, where a reported 260 Union soldiers were buried in a mass grave. They reburied the soldiers in individual graves, decorated the resting places, sang songs of freedom, and held a picnic afterwards.

“The war was over, and Decoration Day had been founded by African Americans in a ritual of remembrance and consecration,” said Dr. David Blight, Sterling Professor of History and of African American Studies at Yale University, in his article “The First Decoration Day, ” about the Charleston celebration. “The war, they had boldly announced, had been all about the triumph of their emancipation over a slaveholders' republic, and not about state rights, defense of home, nor merely soldiers' valor and sacrifice.”

Read More: The Overlooked Black History of Memorial Day

The holiday was not official until 1968

Though many towns had their own Decoration Day celebrations, the holiday more officially emerged in 1868 when General John A. Logan , commander-in-chief of the GAR called on former soldiers and their communities to conduct ceremonies and decorate graves of their dead comrades. This is why many consider Logan to be the founder of Memorial Day.

Memorial Day became an official federal holiday in 1968, with the passing of the Uniform Monday Holiday Act by Congress in June 1968, which went into effect in 1971.

It wasn't always celebrated on the last Monday in May

General Logan called for Decoration Day to occur on May 30 , since it was not the anniversary of any particular battle. With the passing of the Uniform Monday Holiday Act in 1968, Memorial Day was established a federal holiday on the last Monday of May, so it could be a three-day weekend.

When President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the act, he noted that the three-day weekend would make it easier for Americans to travel, and better for industrial production and commercial activity, since there would be no midweek shut down.

“In the post-war years, the narrative is that it’s American to honor our traditions, our ideals and our people with commercial and industrial production and activity,” says Dr. Fink.

There is debate on where the “home” of Memorial Day is

President Johnson named Waterloo, New York, as the birthplace of Memorial Day in 1966. Waterloo first celebrated the day on May 5, 1866. However, several other towns have also claimed to be the holiday's birthplace, including Charleson, South Carolina; Columbus, Georgia; and Boalsburg, Pennsylvania.

“Charleston claims that. Columbus claims it,” Dr. Adam Domby, Associate Professor of History at Auburn University, tells TIME in a phone call. “But the sentiment remains that the act of decoration annually begins really in the South at grave sites of American soldiers who had died fighting for African American freedom.”

American Memorial Day is quite different to the memorial days of other Anglo-European countries

According to Dr. Fink, it is far more common around the world for countries, particularly Anglo-European countries, to have their version of a Memorial Day or Remembrance Day on November 11, the conclusion of World War I, also known as Armistice Day.

In America, though, Armistice Day coincides with Veterans Day, which honors all of those who have served in the United States Military, while Memorial Day focuses on soldiers who have died.

Furthermore, Memorial Day in America is often seen as a celebration—many early iterations of the day included songs, barbecues, and lemonade, according to Dr. Domby—while Armistice Day in many other countries is publicly viewed as quite solemn.

Schoolchildren Gathering Flowers for Memorial Day

Confederate Memorial Day rose concurrently with Memorial Day

After the Civil War, many white Southerners refused to participate in Memorial Day, according to Domby. Instead, Confederate Memorial Day, commemorating the deaths of Confederate soldiers in the U.S., began around the same time. These celebrations never became an official federal holiday, but were eventually established as state holidays in some southern states.

Mississippi , Alabama, and South Carolina still recognize Confederate Memorial Day, closing state offices on April 22 and May 10, respectively. Florida , North Carolina, and Georgia still name the holiday in state law, but no longer close state offices in observance.

How a President celebrates Memorial Day is often viewed through a political lens

There is a newer narrative that Americans are losing intimacy and care for their troops. And while Dr. Fink says this is partially true with volunteer military service, Presidents have been scrutinized for how they celebrate Memorial Day.

“In 1888, the U.S. President [Grover Cleveland] was criticized for going fishing on Memorial Day, and in 1911 the first Indy 500 was held on Memorial Day,” Dr. Fink says.

In June 1972, TIME commented that the holiday had become “a three-day nationwide hootenanny that seems to have lost much of its original purpose.”

A customary moment of silence takes place at 3:00 p.m.

Memorial Day is frequently commemorated with the gesture of American flags lowered to half-mast, accompanied by a moment of silence observed at 3:00 p.m., a time designated by The National Moment of Remembrance Act , passed in 2000.

This year, President Joe Biden also called for an “hour beginning in each locality at 11:00 a.m. of [Memorial Day] as a time when people might unite in prayer and reflection.”

43.8 million people are expected to travel this Memorial Day Weekend.

AAA projected that Memorial Day 2024 will be an extremely busy travel weekend. According to their analysis, 43.8 million travelers will head 50 miles or more from home over the Memorial Day holiday travel period, a 4% increase over last year.

“We’re projecting an additional one million travelers this holiday weekend compared to 2019, which not only means we’re exceeding pre-pandemic levels but also signals a very busy summer travel season ahead,” said Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel on their website.

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Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 113 perfect persuasive essay topics for any assignment.

General Education

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

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

What Is a Persuasive Essay?

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

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

All persuasive essays have the following:

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

What Makes a Good Persuasive Essay Topic?

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

It’s a Topic You Care About

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

You Have Enough Evidence to Support Your Argument

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

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

It’s a Manageable Topic

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

List of 113 Good Persuasive Essay Topics

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

Arts/Culture

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

Government/Politics

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

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

Tips for Writing a Strong Persuasive Essay

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

Do Your Research

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

Make Your Thesis Perfect

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

Consider the Other Side

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

Summary: Persuasive Essay Ideas

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

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

Do your research
Make your thesis perfect
Consider the other side

What's Next?

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

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

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

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

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May 24, 2024 • 25:18 Whales Have an Alphabet
May 23, 2024 • 34:24 I.C.C. Prosecutor Requests Warrants for Israeli and Hamas Leaders
May 22, 2024 • 23:20 Biden’s Open War on Hidden Fees
May 21, 2024 • 24:14 The Crypto Comeback
May 20, 2024 • 31:51 Was the 401(k) a Mistake?
May 19, 2024 • 33:23 The Sunday Read: ‘Why Did This Guy Put a Song About Me on Spotify?’
May 17, 2024 • 51:10 The Campus Protesters Explain Themselves
May 16, 2024 • 30:47 The Make-or-Break Testimony of Michael Cohen
May 15, 2024 • 27:03 The Possible Collapse of the U.S. Home Insurance System
May 14, 2024 • 35:20 Voters Want Change. In Our Poll, They See It in Trump.
May 13, 2024 • 27:46 How Biden Adopted Trump’s Trade War With China
May 10, 2024 • 27:42 Stormy Daniels Takes the Stand

Whales Have an Alphabet

Until the 1960s, it was uncertain whether whales made any sounds at all..

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Listen and follow The Daily Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | YouTube

Ever since the discovery of whale songs almost 60 years ago, scientists have been trying to decipher the lyrics.

But sperm whales don’t produce the eerie melodies sung by humpback whales, sounds that became a sensation in the 1960s. Instead, sperm whales rattle off clicks that sound like a cross between Morse code and a creaking door. Carl Zimmer, a science reporter, explains why it’s possible that the whales are communicating in a complex language.

On today’s episode

Carl Zimmer , a science reporter for The New York Times who also writes the Origins column .

A diver, who appears minuscule, swims between a large sperm whale and her cub in blue waters.

Background reading

Scientists find an “alphabet” in whale songs.

These whales still use their vocal cords. But how?

There are a lot of ways to listen to The Daily. Here’s how.

We aim to make transcripts available the next workday after an episode’s publication. You can find them at the top of the page.

The Daily is made by Rachel Quester, Lynsea Garrison, Clare Toeniskoetter, Paige Cowett, Michael Simon Johnson, Brad Fisher, Chris Wood, Jessica Cheung, Stella Tan, Alexandra Leigh Young, Lisa Chow, Eric Krupke, Marc Georges, Luke Vander Ploeg, M.J. Davis Lin, Dan Powell, Sydney Harper, Mike Benoist, Liz O. Baylen, Asthaa Chaturvedi, Rachelle Bonja, Diana Nguyen, Marion Lozano, Corey Schreppel, Rob Szypko, Elisheba Ittoop, Mooj Zadie, Patricia Willens, Rowan Niemisto, Jody Becker, Rikki Novetsky, John Ketchum, Nina Feldman, Will Reid, Carlos Prieto, Ben Calhoun, Susan Lee, Lexie Diao, Mary Wilson, Alex Stern, Dan Farrell, Sophia Lanman, Shannon Lin, Diane Wong, Devon Taylor, Alyssa Moxley, Summer Thomad, Olivia Natt, Daniel Ramirez and Brendan Klinkenberg.

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Carl Zimmer covers news about science for The Times and writes the Origins column . More about Carl Zimmer

Biden gets his wish to debate Trump. But it’s not going to be the win he thinks it is.

The fact that the incumbent's team is supportive of a much earlier-than-normal debate is a sign that they recognize the president is struggling in the polls..

Joe Biden really is delusional.

The president seems to think that debating Donald Trump, his presumed Republican presidential rival, is a good idea.

After Biden taunted Trump to acquiesce to a match Wednesday morning, the former president quickly responded that he is ready to “rumble. ”

Bring on the popcorn.

Two debates are scheduled , the first of which is set for June 27 in Atlanta. The next will follow in September.

In a video in which he looked rather angry and squinty, Biden goaded Trump (who didn’t need any goading) by saying “make my day, pal.” He also made a dig at Trump’s ongoing hush-money trial in New York by suggesting that Trump is “ free on Wednesdays ,” when the court doesn’t meet .

Biden got the debate ball rolling late last month when he somewhat unexpectedly said in an interview with radio host Howard Stern that he’s “happy to debate him.”

Shortly thereafter, Trump responded with : “Crooked Joe Biden just announced that he’s willing to debate! Everyone knows he doesn’t really mean it, but in case he does, I say, ANYWHERE, ANYTIME, ANYPLACE.”

Up until then, Biden and his campaign had been vague about answering Trump’s calls to debate .

Good luck, Biden. You’ll need it.

Regardless, it’s hard to see how any of this will benefit Biden.

The president, 81, has aged visibly in front of the nation the last four years and has had a string of gaffes and uncomfortable moments in recent months. The majority of voters are concerned about his age .

Biden evaded criminal charges in mishandling classified documents earlier this year because the special prosecutor concluded that “at trial, Mr. Biden would likely present himself to a jury, as he did during our interview of him, as a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory.”

Biden gets a pass: Special counsel says Biden is 'elderly man with a poor memory.' And he's the Democrats' guy?

If Biden can’t even read a teleprompter without problems, it’s hard to see how a high-stakes, on-your-feet exchange with someone like Trump will benefit him.

Trump has plenty of faults, but he’s an entertainer and knows how to keep an audience engaged. Sparring is his specialty.

Not so much for Biden.

And even though at 77 he is also elderly, Trump doesn't show his age in the same ways Biden does ( and polls confirm that many Americans agree ).

Early debate signals Biden campaign woes

Despite the Biden campaign’s projected optimism, the fact that the incumbent's team is supportive of a much earlier-than-normal debate is a sign that they recognize the president is struggling in the polls.

Biden blunders again: Trump's trial drama is salacious, but don't overlook Biden's blunders and bizarre stories

Presidential debates don’t usually take place until the fall. For instance, in 2020, Biden and Trump had their first tête-à-tête in late September.

The president's debate gambit is a strong sign that Biden realizes he needs to turn things around – and soon.

Recent polls from The New York Times, Siena College and The Philadelphia Inquirer show that Trump leads Biden among registered voters in five of six critical battleground states: Michigan, Arizona, Nevada, Georgia and Pennsylvania. Biden edges Trump only in Wisconsin.

None of this is good news for Biden, who probably thought he could skate to victory simply by watching Trump implode through his various criminal trials.

That’s not happening , however. And fractures among Biden’s Democratic Party over his handling of the Israel-Hamas war aren’t helping.

Biden may have gotten his wish to debate Trump. But it's not going to help his reelection dreams come true.

Ingrid Jacques is a columnist at USA TODAY. Contact her at [email protected] or on X, formerly Twitter: @ Ingrid_Jacques .

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150+ Unique Debate Topics That Will Spark Epic Discussions
Practicing debate is a personal growth powerhouse activity! It trains you to think deeply about a topic, communicate persuasively, and become flexible with your perspectives.It also trains your critical thinking and public speaking skills.. While two people could debate anything, finding the right topic can bring passion and inspiration to the conversation, where there is a fire in the room ...
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Social and Political Issues Debate Topics. All people should have the right to own guns. The death penalty should be abolished. Human cloning should be legalized. All drugs should be legalized. Animal testing should be banned. Juveniles should be tried and treated as adults. Climate change is the greatest threat facing humanity today.
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Need to write an argumentative essay? Preparing for an upcoming debate? ProCon.org has over 100 topics complete with pro and con arguments, quotes and statistics from experts, historical information, and other pertinent research. Abortion - Should abortion be legal? Alternative Energy - Can alternative energy effectively replace fossil fuels?
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Below are the six types of debate: Lincoln-Douglas Debate: This type of debate is mostly used in formal debating societies. It is also known as a "value debate" and requires two individuals to argue against each other on moral and ethical issues. Rebuttal Debate: A rebuttal debate is an argument that takes place between two participants.
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Choose from over 100 interesting debate topics and learn strategies to win any debate. ... The claim of the contention is akin to a topic sentence in an essay: it is a clear, direct, and provable statement which will be defended in the rest of contention. Returning to the example topic of school uniforms, for example, a contention could begin ...
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This article provides example debate topics and questions in the following categories: Education-Themed Topics. Political Debate Topics. Social Subjects to Debate. Environmental Themes to Debate. Technology Topics to Debate. Simpler Debate Topics for Younger Students. More Controversial Debate and Argumentative Essay Topics.
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Tip #4: Avoid Hyperbole, Stereotypes, and Clichés. These are common issues that crop up in argumentative writing that ultimately weaken your position. Hyperbole happens when you exaggerate. When you use hyperbole, you risk misrepresenting the issue at hand—which is an argument killer.
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May 11, 2023. It can be tempting to steer away from controversial debate topics in the classroom. But teaching students to discuss hot topics calmly and rationally is vital. Show them how to think critically about a subject, then use facts to support their point of view. These controversial topics can work well for classroom debates, persuasive ...
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50 Argumentative Essay Topics. Illustration by Catherine Song. ThoughtCo. 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 ...
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Choosing between argumentative essay topics can be hard; especially when you don't know where to start looking. ... and you'll see political divisions deepening. Here are some interesting topics for exploration. Allow these ... high school, or college. The key is finding topics that interest students and inspire passionate debate. These are ...
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Ideally, a good argumentative essay topic will be meaningful to you—writing is always stronger when you are interested in the subject matter. In addition, the topic should be complex with plenty of "pro" and "con" arguments. ... 125 Good Debate Topics for High School Students; 150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics; 7 Best Places to Study;
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Footnotes Jump to essay-1 Hutchinson v. Proxmire, 443 U.S. 111, 124 (1979) (noting that the Court has given the Clause a practical, rather than a strictly literal, reading . . . Jump to essay-2 Eastland v. U.S. Servicemen's Fund, 421 U.S. 491, 501 (1975) (Without exception, our cases have read the Speech or Debate Clause broadly to effectuate its purposes.
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Top 70 Controversial Debate Topics For Critical Thinkers in 2024

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Debate Topics for Kids

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150+ Debate Topics To Spark Conversations & Conquer Minds

Interesting Debate Topics for College Students

Interesting and Controversial Debate Topics

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Unique Topics for University Students

Political Debate Topics

Topics to Debate on Environment

Debate Topics on Ethics

Easy Debate Topics on Education

Conversational Debate Topics

What is a Debate?

Types of Debates:

Rebuttal Debate

Lincoln-Douglas Debate

One-Rebuttal Debate

Public Forum Debate

Cross-Examination Debate

Oregon-Oxford Debate

Significance of the Right Debate Topics.

How to Choose Good Debate Topics? A Quick Guide

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160 Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Students in 2024

What is an Argumentative Essay?

Argumentative Essay Format

How to Write an Effective Argumentative Essay, Step by Step

Tips for Revising an Argument Essay

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

Education Argument Essay Topics

Government Argumentative Essay Topics

Health/Bioethics Argumentative Essay Topics

Good Argumentative Essay Topics — Continued

Religion Argument Essay Topics

Science Argument Essay Topics

Sports Argument Essay Topics

Technology Argumentative Essay Topics

Business Argument Essay Topics

In Conclusion – Argument Essay Topics

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