persuasive speech technology

194+ Technology Persuasive Speech Topics | Engage Your Audience

Nov 6, 2023

Nov 6, 2023 | Topics

Are you looking for interesting technology persuasive speech topics? You’re in the right place! Over the years, I’ve observed firsthand situations where the impact of technology has been a hot topic. In my experience, finding a persuasive topic that not only grabs your audience’s attention but also resonates with them is key. Typically, regarding technology-persuasive speech topics, it’s crucial to rely on credible sources that provide solid evidence.

So, let’s dive into some thought-provoking ideas that can make your persuasive speech truly stand out!

3 Types of Persuasive Speech Topics

When exploring topics for persuasive speeches, it’s helpful to understand the different types that can make your presentation impactful. Let’s break down the three types and see how we can incorporate technology to create compelling, persuasive speech ideas for high school students.

Factual Persuasive Speech Topics: These topics rely on presenting solid evidence and data. For instance, you could delve into how technology has transformed education, providing examples of how it has made learning more accessible and interactive. Have you ever wondered how technology has revolutionized how we learn in schools? It’s fascinating how tools like interactive whiteboards and educational apps have changed the classroom experience.
Value-Based Persuasive Speech Topics: These topics involve discussing what is right or wrong, ethical or unethical. Consider exploring the ethical use of technology in our daily lives. Are you concerned about the impact of social media on our mental health or the ethical concerns around data privacy in the digital age? These are important conversations, especially considering how much we use technology daily.
Policy Persuasive Speech Topics: These topics revolve around proposing changes to existing policies or advocating for new ones. You could choose to discuss how technology can play a role in addressing environmental issues. How can we use technology to promote sustainability and reduce our carbon footprint? Exploring renewable energy sources or promoting eco-friendly technology can be compelling arguments to make a difference.

What Makes A Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

Understanding what makes a good persuasive speech topic is key to capturing your audience’s attention and conveying your message effectively. From my perspective, here are some key points to consider when selecting your topic:

Relevance and Significance: A good persuasive speech topic should be relevant to your audience and significant today. Discussing issues that directly affect your peers can create a strong connection. For instance, how does technology impact our daily lives, education, or future careers? Choosing a topic that resonates with your high school peers can make your speech more relatable and engaging.
Clarity and Focus: a clear and focused topic is crucial for delivering a compelling speech. Avoid overly broad or vague topics that might confuse your audience. Instead, narrow down your focus to a specific aspect of technology that you’re passionate about. Do you want to talk about the benefits of technology in healthcare, or do you want to address the potential risks of excessive screen time? Clarity in your topic will help you convey your ideas more effectively.
Controversy and Balance: A good persuasive speech topic often involves a degree of controversy or debate. It’s important to choose a topic that allows for multiple perspectives and presents a balanced view. For instance, if you’re discussing the impact of social media, consider both the positive aspects of connectivity and the potential negative impacts on mental health and privacy. Acknowledging different viewpoints can make your argument more compelling and credible.
Personal Interest and Passion: Selecting a topic that you are genuinely passionate about can make a world of difference. When you’re personally invested in the topic, your enthusiasm and knowledge will shine through your speech, capturing your audience’s attention and making your presentation more engaging.

How To Create And Deliver A Compelling Persuasive Speech

Crafting and delivering a compelling, persuasive speech is a skill that can truly make a difference in conveying your ideas effectively. To the best of my knowledge, here are some essential tips to help you create and deliver a speech that leaves a lasting impact:

Research and Preparation: As I see it, thorough research is the foundation of a compelling, persuasive speech. Diving deep into your chosen topic, gathering credible sources, and understanding different viewpoints can strengthen your argument. Are you considering the pros and cons of technology in education or the implications of technology on the job market? Comprehensive research will help you build a solid foundation for your speech.
Clear Structure: A well-structured speech can make it easier for your audience to follow your arguments. You can start with a captivating introduction that grabs your audience’s attention, outline your main points with supporting evidence, and conclude with a memorable call to action. Can’t help but think about how a clear structure can make your speech more organized and impactful?
Engaging Delivery: To create an engaging delivery, you should consider using compelling visuals, storytelling, or real-life examples to show your points. Including anecdotes or personal experiences related to your topic can help you connect with your audience personally. How can you use technology to enhance your speech, such as incorporating multimedia presentations or interactive elements to make your points more relatable and engaging?
Confidence and Passion: In my honest assessment, confidence and passion are key elements that can captivate your audience. Practice your speech multiple times to build confidence, and speak enthusiastically and passionately about your chosen topic. Your passion and energy will naturally resonate with your audience, making your persuasive speech more compelling and persuasive.

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2023 on Technology

The Future of Artificial Intelligence in Everyday Life
Ethical Considerations in Genetic Engineering Advancements
Exploring the Role of Technology in Sustainable Energy Solutions
The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health Awareness
Embracing Virtual Reality for Enhanced Learning Experiences
Addressing Cybersecurity Challenges in the Digital Age
The Importance of Data Privacy in a Hyperconnected World
Harnessing Technology to Combat Climate Change
The Influence of Gaming Culture on Social Interaction
Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in the Tech Industry
Analyzing the Benefits and Risks of Biometric Identification
The Role of Technology in Redefining Healthcare Accessibility
Debating the Ethics of Autonomous Vehicles and Their Impact
Exploring the Growing Role of Blockchain Technology in Finance
Leveraging Technology for Enhanced Disaster Management and Relief

Technology Persuasive Speech Topics for College

Impact of Virtual Reality on Modern Education
Ethical Implications of Artificial Intelligence Development
Promoting Gender Diversity in the Tech Industry
Leveraging Big Data for Societal Advancements
Cybersecurity Measures for Protecting Sensitive Information
The Role of Technology in Environmental Conservation Efforts
Integrating Wearable Technology for Personal Health Monitoring
Exploring the Future of 5G Technology and Its Applications
Challenges and Opportunities in Space Exploration Technology
Enhancing Accessibility Through Assistive Technology Innovations
The Influence of Social Media on Political Discourse
Implications of Quantum Computing in Scientific Research
Balancing Innovation and Privacy in the Era of IoT
The Ethics of Gene Editing and Its Impact on Humanity
The Intersection of Technology and Human Rights Advocacy

Best Technology Argumentative Essay Topics

Impact of Technology on Human Relationships
Ethical Dilemmas Surrounding Artificial Intelligence
Privacy Concerns in the Age of Digital Surveillance
The Pros and Cons of E-Learning in Modern Education
Internet Censorship: Balancing Control and Freedom of Speech
The Role of Technology in Shaping Modern Work Environments
Implications of Biometric Identification in Security Measures
The Environmental Impact of Electronic Waste Disposal
The Dark Side of Social Media: Mental Health and Cyberbullying
5G Technology: Health Risks and Connectivity Benefits
The Debate on Technological Singularity and Its Consequences
Balancing Accessibility and Design in User Interface Experience
Genetic Engineering: Advancements, Risks, and Benefits
The Influence of Technology on Global Economic Disparities
Virtual Reality: Escapism or a Tool for Empathy Building

Technology Persuasive Speech Topics for High School

The Influence of Social Media on Teen Mental Health
Importance of Digital Literacy in the Modern Age
Embracing Renewable Energy for a Sustainable Future
Ethical Use of Technology in Academic Settings
Balancing Screen Time and Physical Activity for Teens
Exploring the Benefits of Coding Education in Schools
Cyberbullying Prevention and Online Safety Measures
Leveraging Technology for Community Service Initiatives
The Role of Technology in Cultivating Creative Expression
Debating the Impact of Video Games on Youth Behavior
Ensuring Digital Privacy in an Online World
Harnessing Technology for Effective Time Management
Promoting Digital Citizenship and Responsible Online Behavior
Addressing the Dangers of Online Predators and Scams
Integrating Technology for Inclusive Learning Environments

Interesting Technology Persuasive Speech Topics

The Influence of Technology on Modern Art and Creativity
Exploring the Potential of 3D Printing in Various Industries
The Role of Technology in Revolutionizing Travel and Tourism
Harnessing the Power of Nanotechnology for Medical Breakthroughs
The Growing Significance of Robotics in Daily Life
The Ethical Considerations of Biometric Identification Systems
Leveraging Virtual Assistants for Improved Productivity
The Impact of Technological Innovations on Cultural Preservation
Analyzing the Future of Smart Home Automation Technology
The Role of Technology in Redefining Modern Warfare
Exploring the Intersection of Technology and Human Psychology
The Evolution of Digital Entertainment and Its Societal Impact
The Influence of Technology on Sustainable Agriculture Practices
Debating the Potential of Space Colonization and Its Challenges
The Growing Role of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare Solutions

Public Speaking Persuasive Speech Topics on Technology

Cybersecurity Measures: Safeguarding Personal Data Online
The Role of Technology in Combating Climate Change
Promoting Digital Wellness: Striking a Balance in the Digital Age
Artificial Intelligence: Enhancing Efficiency or Threatening Jobs?
The Impact of Virtual Reality on Empathy and Understanding
Debating the Ethics of Gene Editing and Human Enhancement
The Potential of Blockchain Technology in Modernizing Finance
Technology and the Aging Population: Challenges and Solutions
The Influence of Technology on Global Communication and Connection
Leveraging Technology for Effective Disaster Preparedness
Technology and Mental Health: Addressing the Stigma and Solutions
The Importance of Digital Accessibility for People with Disabilities
Exploring the Pros and Cons of Biometric Identification Systems
The Evolution of E-Commerce: Implications for Small Businesses
The Future of Work: Adapting to the Challenges of Automation

Persuasive Essay Topics on Technology

Impacts of Technology on Interpersonal Relationships
Ethical Considerations in Artificial Intelligence Development
Digital Privacy Rights and Responsibilities in the Digital Age
Advantages and Disadvantages of Remote Work and Telecommuting
Cybersecurity Threats and Measures for Ensuring Online Safety
The Role of Technology in Improving Healthcare Services
Environmental Consequences of Electronic Waste Disposal
Balancing Screen Time and Physical Activity for Children
Integration of Technology in Modern Educational Systems
Genetic Engineering: Promises, Risks, and Ethical Concerns
Digital Divide: Addressing Disparities in Access to Technology
Implications of Automation and Robotics on the Future of Work
The Impact of Virtual Reality on Entertainment and Storytelling
Biometric Identification Systems: Privacy and Security Concerns

Technology Argumentative Essay Topics on Social Life

Impact of Social Media on Personal Relationships and Communication
Ethical Dilemmas of Privacy and Surveillance in the Digital Age
Digital Detox: Necessity or Overreaction in Modern Society
Balancing Online and Offline Social Interaction for Well-being
Cyberbullying: Addressing the Menace in Virtual Communities
The Influence of Technology on Family Dynamics and Bonding
Social Media and Mental Health: Understanding the Connection
The Role of Technology in Fostering Global Connections and Understanding
Online Identity: Authenticity and Representation in the Virtual World
Impact of Technology on Social Activism and Grassroots Movements
Digital Communities and Their Impact on Social Inclusion
Technology and Social Isolation: Challenges and Solutions
Online Dating: Pros and Cons of Virtual Relationship Building
The Role of Technology in Shaping Cultural Norms and Values
Impact of Gaming Culture on Social Behavior and Interaction

Easy Technology Persuasive Speech Topics

Enhancing Online Safety Through Strong Passwords and Security Measures
The Benefits of Using Technology for Learning and Educational Purposes
The Importance of Regular Software Updates for Device Security
Exploring the Positive Impact of Technology on Health and Fitness
How to Use Social Media Responsibly and Effectively
The Role of Technology in Facilitating Remote Work Opportunities
The Advantages of Using Digital Tools for Time Management
Promoting Digital Citizenship and Online Etiquette Among Peers
The Importance of Backing Up Data for Data Protection
How to Detect and Avoid Online Scams and Frauds
The Pros and Cons of Using Mobile Applications for Daily Tasks
The Impact of Technology on Improving Communication Skills
The Role of Technology in Assisting People with Disabilities
The Benefits of Using Technology for Environmental Conservation
How to Manage Screen Time Effectively for Better Well-being.

Easy Technology Essay Topics

The Evolution of Smartphones: A Brief History and Impact
How Computers Have Transformed Modern Work Environments
Exploring the Basics of Internet Safety and Online Privacy
The Role of Technology in Modern Transportation Systems
Understanding the Basics of Coding and Its Relevance Today
The Benefits of Using Technology for Health Monitoring
How Social Media Has Changed the Way We Communicate
The Influence of Technology on Entertainment and Media
The Basics of Cybersecurity and Best Practices for Protection
Exploring the Advantages of E-Learning and Online Education
The Impact of Video Games on Cognitive Skills and Development
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Daily Life Applications
How Technology Has Revolutionized the Field of Medicine
The Importance of Data Backup and Recovery for Personal Devices
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Cloud Computing for Businesses.

Technology and Education Essay Topics

The Impact of Technology on Traditional Classroom Learning
Enhancing Student Engagement Through Interactive Whiteboards
The Role of Educational Apps in Promoting Personalized Learning
How Technology Can Assist Students with Special Educational Needs
Online Learning: Pros and Cons of Virtual Education Platforms
The Importance of Digital Literacy in Modern Educational Settings
Leveraging Technology for Collaborative Learning and Group Projects
Exploring the Benefits of Gamification in Educational Practices
The Role of Technology in Bridging the Education Gap in Remote Areas
How Virtual Reality Can Enhance Learning Experiences in Schools
The Influence of Technology on the Evolution of Curriculum Design
Addressing the Challenges of Technology Integration in Schools
Promoting Digital Citizenship and Responsible Online Behavior Among Students
The Impact of AI and Machine Learning in Educational Assessments
Analyzing the Role of Technology in the Future of Higher Education.

Technology Argumentative Essay Topics on Business

The Impact of E-Commerce on Traditional Retail Businesses
Leveraging Data Analytics for Effective Business Decision-Making
The Role of Technology in Streamlining Supply Chain Management
Exploring the Benefits of Cloud Computing for Small Businesses
The Influence of Social Media Marketing on Consumer Behavior
The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence in Business Operations
The Importance of Cybersecurity Measures for Business Protection
The Role of Technology in Enhancing Customer Relationship Management
Addressing the Challenges of Digital Transformation in Businesses
The Implications of Blockchain Technology in Modern Financial Systems
The Influence of Automation and Robotics in Manufacturing Processes
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Virtual Meetings and Conferences
The Role of Technology in Promoting Global Business Expansion
Exploring the Impact of Mobile Applications on Business Growth
The Future of Work: Adapting to Technological Changes in Business Environments.

Technology Essay Argumentative Topics on Development

The Role of Technology in Economic Development in Developing Countries
Sustainable Development Goals and the Integration of Technology
The Impact of Technology on Infrastructure Development Projects
Addressing Digital Divide: Challenges and Solutions for Developing Nations
Technological Advancements and Agricultural Development in Rural Areas
The Role of Technology in Improving Healthcare Systems in Developing Regions
Integrating Renewable Energy Solutions for Sustainable Development
The Influence of Technology on Education and Literacy Rates in Developing Communities
Promoting Entrepreneurship Through Technological Innovation in Developing Economies
The Challenges of Implementing Technological Solutions in Underdeveloped Areas
Balancing Traditional Practices with Modern Technological Development
Exploring the Role of Technology in Addressing Urban Development Challenges
The Importance of Accessible and Affordable Technology for Development
Technology and Environmental Conservation: Promoting Sustainable Development
The Potential of Mobile Technology in Accelerating Socioeconomic Development.

Get Help With Your Technology Persuasive Speech Paper

Need help with your technology persuasive speech paper? Essay Freelance Writers is the best in the industry for expert writing help. Whether you need assistance with topic selection, organizing your arguments, or crafting a compelling speech, our team of skilled writers is here to support you every step. Place your order today by clicking the ORDER NOW button above, and let us help you create a persuasive speech that will captivate your audience and leave a lasting impression.

What are persuasive speech topics about children and technology?

Some potential persuasive speech topics about children and technology include the impact of excessive screen time on development, the importance of digital literacy education, or the need for strict online safety measures for children.

How do you start a speech on technology?

You can start a speech on technology by opening with a relevant and engaging anecdote, stating a surprising statistic, or posing a thought-provoking question to capture the audience’s attention and generate interest.

What would you say is a good persuasive topic to talk about?

A good persuasive topic to talk about can be relevant, meaningful, and spark discussion. It should be a topic that you feel passionate about and can provide compelling arguments for, such as the ethical implications of technology, the impact of social media on society, or the importance of environmental sustainability.

How does technology make life better speech?

A speech on how technology makes life better can highlight various aspects, such as improved communication through instant messaging and video calls, enhanced access to information and education through the internet, or the advancements in healthcare technology that have led to better medical treatments and outcomes.

With a passion for education and student empowerment, I create blog content that speaks directly to the needs and interests of students. From study hacks and productivity tips to career exploration and personal development

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150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics for Students in 2024

April 1, 2024

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

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

What is a Good Persuasive Speech?

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

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

Components of a Great Persuasive Speech Topic

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

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

150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Business and Economy

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

Social Media

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

Education – Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Social Issues – Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Politics and Government

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

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Fun Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics

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

I’ve Chosen My Topic, Now What?

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

How to Create a Successful Persuasive Speech, Step by Step

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

How to Practice and Deliver a Persuasive Speech

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

Good Persuasive Speech Topics—Final Thoughts

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

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

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

Lauren Green

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

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Technology Persuasive Speech Topics

Technology is the use of scientific knowledge for solving practical problems. Technology has changed the way humans are living, and its impacts are everywhere. Although technology is helping humans to live a better life, its impacts are not always positive. While a layperson may not bother to know how technology affects him or her, a learned person constantly make attempts to know all the impacts of technology and persuade people to use it aright. Since students are among the learned people, they are also expected to find out the impacts of technology on people and persuade everyone around them to use technology in the right way. Students generally find it easy to investigate the impacts of technology, but they find it hard to persuade people about technology. We made some attempts to find out why students find it hard to persuade people, and we were able to discover the primary reason why students’ persuasions are not effective to their audience. It is hard for students to persuade their audience because the majority of them don’t use interesting topics that draw and retain the attention of the audience. We love helping students with suitable speech topics, and therefore we shall list some interesting technology persuasive speech topics below. Check out the topics and use the one that best matches the idea that you wish to persuade people about. We deliberately listed only the popular technology ideas so that students will quickly get familiar ideas to persuade people about.

People should stop depending too much on computers and smartphones
Desktop computers are outdated
Computer games make children stupid
Workers should utilize more digital tools at the workplace
Internet needs to be censored
Electronics make children lazy
Everybody should use a smartphone
Social media should not replace face to face interaction
More people should take online classes
Genetic testing has changed the way we tackle diseases
There should be more technological advancements in the world today
Every published book should be available in PDF format
People should stop using technology to create problems
Government should fund technology research
Aged people should learn how to operate varieties of devices
Digital learning should be promoted
People should update themselves about advancement in technology
All car owners should learn how to fix some minor faults that cars can develop
Hybrid vehicles save energy
Car manufacturers should put the environment into consideration while designing cars
People should buy electric cars rather than cars that use fuel
All kids should learn how to use computers
Parents should allow their children to play video games
Internet censorship is appropriate
Robots are too expensive
Parents should share genetic information with their children
AI robots should be in every street
Students in elementary schools should use computers at school
Machines make people lazy
People should reduce the quantity of genetically modified foods that they consume
Search engines like Google and Yahoo are killing brain libraries
Every Microsoft software should be free
People should stop keeping their mobile phones underneath their pillow while they sleep at night
Apple Music should be free
School internet should be filtered
Identity chips should be implanted under the skin of everybody
Government should improve space programs
Teens below 16 years of age should not use smartphones
Drones should be used for both military and non-military purposes
Television promotes violence in children
Smart notebooks should replace paper
It is ethical to create a disease-free child using technology
Nanotechnology is paving new ways for humans
Children should not be allowed to buy video games by themselves
Internet gambling should have strong regulations
Kids should stop playing violent video games
E-books should not totally replace traditional books
Cars that drive themselves are not ideal for busy roads
Computer users should not stare at their computer screen for too long
People should stop listening to music at high volume
Smartphone addiction is bad
Internet pop-up adverts are like spams to many Internet users
Kids should not be allowed to use social media
All social networks should have a two-step verification
All social networks should have a means of verifying users’ Identity
Every student should learn how to program
Communication masts should not be located near people’s houses

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Tap into the power to persuade by using these 6 techniques of clear and compelling speech

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Politicians and other public figures deploy particular rhetorical devices to communicate their ideas and to convince people, and it’s time that we all learned how to use them, says speechwriter Simon Lancaster.

This post is part of TED’s “How to Be a Better Human” series, each of which contains a piece of helpful advice from someone in the TED community; browse through all the posts here.

There is a secret language of leadership — and it’s one that anyone can learn, says UK speechwriter Simon Lancaster in a TEDxVerona talk . He has made a career out of crafting addresses, remarks and talks for top politicians and CEOs of international corporations such as Nestle and Unilever, and continues to do so . Refreshingly, rather than clinging Gollum-like to what he’s learned and knows, he believes everyone should have access to the same tools that he and his colleagues use.

By tools, he’s not talking about special software or databases — he’s referring to rhetoric. Rhetoric has its roots in ancient Greece ( think: Aristotle ) as clear, convincing speech was seen as an essential component of communication and participation in a democracy. Instruction in rhetoric remained part of the curriculum in many secondary schools in Europe and the US until the 19th century.

“The reason we all used to learn rhetoric at school was because it was seen as a basic entry point to society,” explains Lancaster, who is based in London. “How could society be fair, unless everyone had equal ability to articulate and express themselves? Without it, your legal systems, your political systems, your financial systems are not fair.”

Yes, the power to persuade is just that — power.

Lancaster states there is only one school in England that still teaches rhetoric: Eton, the alma mater of 20 Prime Ministers (including current officeholder, Boris Johnson). He adds, “It should be of intense concern to all of us that education in this has been narrowed to a very small … elite.”

While Lancaster can’t send the world to Eton, he can share the 6 rhetorical building blocks needed to speak persuasively. Here they are:

Building block #1: Breathless sentences or phrases

Barack Obama gave an acceptance speech for the ages in 2008 after he was first elected president of the US. He spoke vividly of the challenges that lay ahead for the country: “Even as we celebrate tonight, we know that the challenges tomorrow will bring are the greatest of our lifetime: Two wars, a planet in peril, the worst financial crisis in a century.”

Lancaster wants us to pay special attention to the last part of that sentence, the “two wars, a planet in peril, the worst financial crisis in a century” part. Yes, it’s a stressful mouthful — not just because of the content but because of how it’s delivered. Short, staccato phrases like these mimic how we speak when we’re anxious and in a hurry. This technique helps communicate urgency to an audience.

Building block #2: Speaking in 3s

What’s the other rhetorical trick underlying “two wars, a planet in peril, the worst financial crisis in a century”? The rule of 3.

Humans are accustomed to things coming in 3s: whether it’s judges on American Idol , bowls of porridge in a fairy tale , or sides in a triangle. Our minds and ears have been trained by speeches (Abraham Lincoln’s “government of the people, for the people, by the people”); slogans (reduce, reuse, recycle); and book titles ( Elizabeth Gilbert ‘s memoir Eat, Pray, Love ). “You put your argument in 3s, it makes it sound more compelling, more convincing, more credible. Just like that,” says Lancaster.

Recall British PM Winston Churchill’s stirring triplet from the speech he delivered to Parliament on June 4, 1940 : “We shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight on the fields and in the streets.” Besides the rule of 3, he gave the line additional rhetorical firepower by repeating the opening clause.

Lancaster explains, “When we are emotional about things, our perspective distorts, and this then manifests in our speech. So this is the authentic sound of passion.” Doing this can catch an audience in the speaker’s enthusiasm.

Building block #3: Balanced statements

“Ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country.” It’s a line from president John F Kennedy’s inspiring 1961 inaugural address , and one that’s stood the test of time. Why? Its balanced construction, says Lancaster. “If the sentence sounds as if it’s balanced, we imagine that the underlying thinking is balanced and our brain is tuned to like things that are balanced.”

Grouping balanced statements in 3s further amplifies the effect:

“We’re looking to the future, not the past.

We’re working together, not against one another.

We’re thinking about what we can do, not what we can’t.”

Building block #4: Metaphor

According to Lancaster, people use a metaphor once every 16 words on average ( side question: Where do statistics like this even come from? ). He declares, “Metaphor is probably the most powerful piece of political communication.”

Metaphors are rich in imagery and awake immediate feelings in people, so it follows that politicians love them and sprinkle them like birdseed (“like birdseed” is a simile, not a metaphor , and similes are other strong rhetorical tools to have in your kit). At times, they can employ them to point us to an ideal or aspiration. For example, in his farewell address , president Ronald Reagan movingly invoked America, h/t to John Winthrop, as a “shining city upon the hill.”

Too often, however, metaphors are used to manipulate, incite and denigrate. Politicians and talking heads could have called the 2015-16 refugee encampment in Calais, France, a “refugee camp” or “refugee settlement.” Instead, they deployed this loaded word: “jungle.” Lancaster says,“It’s planting in your mind the idea that migrants are like wild animals to be afraid of, that they are dangerous, that they represent a threat to you. This is a very dangerous metaphor because this is the language of genocide; it’s the language of hate.” Unfortunately, media outlets picked up “Calais jungle” and used it as their shorthand identifier of the camp, extending the metaphor’s reach.

Building block #5: Exaggeration

In the same way that we get breathless when they’re speaking with passion, our speech distorts in another significant way. We exaggerate. So when we’re sitting down to a meal after having eaten little that day, we tell our family and friends: “I love this pizza.” But when we say things like this to each other, we also realize it’s a bit of distortion: We do not love the pizza in the same way that we love our children or parents or the planet, and everyone present knows that.

Similarly, politicians and leaders might say things like “I’ve waited my whole life to say these words” or “I will work to achieve this with all my heart and soul.” These utterances are indeed over the top, but because they’re acceptable and even welcome since they echo how we speak.

Building block #6: Rhyming

Starting from childhood, many of us are taught concepts through rhymes — such as “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” or “i before e except after c.” With their musicality, they’re a pleasing informational snack that sticks in memories like a musical earworm .

Rhymes can seem corny, but sprinkled in at the right time, they can be incredibly potent. We all remember the pithy “If it doesn’t fit, you must acquit” from defense attorney Johnnie Cochran during O.J. Simpson’s 1995 murder trial.

Rhyming’s appeal comes “down to what linguists talk about as the processing fluency of language — how easy is language to swallow?” says Lancaster. “If you speak using long words and long sentences, it’s like giving someone a steak and asking them to swallow it. Whereas if you give them something pithy, like a rhyme, it’s like asking them to just sip on some Prosecco.”

These six tricks can help us speak directly to people’s instinctive, emotional and logical brains, and they are extremely effective, says Lancaster. There’s no need for us to be in the public eye to use them in order to sway others or make our words stay in people’s minds. Even if we never employ them in our own lives, it’s equally important for us to recognize them. Politicians, con artists and advertisers utilize them to win votes, spread opinions, or sell products people don’t need. By being alert to these rhetorical devices, we can be better citizens and consumers.

To learn more about rhetoric, watch this:

Watch Simon Lancaster’s TEDxVerona talk here:

About the author

Daryl Chen is the Ideas Editor at TED.

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107 Persuasive Speech Topics: A Comprehensive Guide

Crafting a persuasive speech can be a daunting task, but choosing the right topic is the first step to engaging your audience and making an impact. Whether you’re a student, educator, or professional, persuasion is a valuable skill that can lead to success in various aspects of life. In this guide, we’ll explore 107 persuasive speech topics across 10 different categories, providing you with a wealth of options for your next speech.

Key Takeaways

Choosing the right topic is crucial for a persuasive speech’s success.
Understanding your audience will help tailor your message effectively.
Research and preparation are key to delivering a compelling argument.

Environment
Social Issues

Education Persuasive Speech Topics

The realm of education offers a rich field for persuasive speech topics, from the debate over traditional versus progressive education methods to the value of online learning.

The necessity of financial education in high schools, for instance, underscores the importance of equipping young individuals with the financial literacy required to navigate the complexities of modern economies. Advocates argue that integrating financial education into the high school curriculum can significantly reduce personal debt and increase financial stability among young adults.

On the other hand, the debate over whether college education should be free reflects broader societal values concerning access to education, equality of opportunity, and the role of government in supporting its citizens. Proponents of free college education highlight the potential to alleviate the burden of student loans and create a more educated workforce, while opponents raise concerns about the quality of education, the financial feasibility of such programs, and the fairness to those who have already paid for their education.

Speech Topics:

The necessity of financial education in high schools
Should college education be free for everyone?
The impact of technology on modern education
The benefits of bilingual education
Homework: An unnecessary evil?
Standardized testing: More harm than good?
The role of arts in education
Should schools implement a dress code?
The importance of sex education in schools
Charter schools vs. public schools: Which is better?

Environment Persuasive Speech Topics

With climate change and environmental degradation at the forefront of global concerns, persuasive speeches on environmental topics can be particularly impactful.

The urgency of acting on climate change is not just a matter of environmental stewardship but also survival, as rising global temperatures threaten ecosystems, human health, and economies worldwide. Persuasive arguments in this realm emphasize the scientific consensus on climate change, the observable impacts already underway, and the moral imperative to act for future generations.

Similarly, the debate over banning single-use plastics tackles the broader issue of waste and pollution, highlighting the detrimental effects of plastic on marine life, water quality, and global health. Advocates for banning single-use plastics call for a shift towards more sustainable consumption patterns and the adoption of alternatives that can reduce the environmental footprint of human activity.

The urgency of acting on climate change
Should single-use plastics be banned?
The benefits of organic farming
Renewable energy: The path to a sustainable future
The importance of conserving water
Urban gardening: A solution to food deserts
The impact of fast fashion on the environment
Wildlife conservation: Why it matters
The role of individuals in reducing carbon footprints
Ocean pollution: A call to action

Politics Persuasive Speech Topics

Politics always provides a fertile ground for persuasion, whether it’s discussing policy changes or advocating for social justice.

The importance of voting in a democracy is a critical topic, where the argument often centers on the idea that voting is not just a right but a civic duty. Persuasive speeches in this area aim to mobilize apathy, combat voter suppression, and underscore the power of each vote in shaping policies and electing leaders who reflect the public’s will.

Meanwhile, the discussion on whether there should be term limits for politicians delves into the balance between experience and fresh perspectives in governance. Advocates for term limits argue that they prevent the entrenchment of power and encourage political renewal, while opponents suggest that such limits could undermine the expertise and continuity necessary for effective leadership.

The importance of voting in a democracy
Should there be term limits for politicians?
The impact of social media on political campaigns
Gun control laws: The need for reform
The death penalty: A moral dilemma
Immigration policies: Finding a humane approach
The role of government in healthcare
Campaign finance reform: Necessary for democracy?
The effects of gerrymandering on electoral fairness
Privacy vs. security: Finding the balance

As technology continues to evolve, it presents new challenges and opportunities for persuasive speeches.

The dangers of artificial intelligence (AI), for example, encompass ethical, privacy, and employment concerns, with proponents warning about the unchecked development of AI systems that could surpass human intelligence and autonomy. This debate calls for responsible development and regulation of AI to harness its benefits while safeguarding against potential threats to humanity.

On the flip side, the role of technology in education explores how digital tools can enhance learning, offering personalized, accessible, and engaging educational experiences. However, this optimism is tempered by concerns over digital divides, data privacy, and the need for a balanced approach that integrates technology without undermining the essential human elements of teaching and learning.

The dangers of artificial intelligence
Social media: Connecting or isolating?
The future of work: Automation and employment
The ethical implications of genetic engineering
Cybersecurity: A growing concern
The digital divide: Bridging the gap
Online privacy: An oxymoron?
The role of technology in education
E-waste: A looming environmental threat
Virtual reality: The future of entertainment

Health persuasive speech topics are always of interest to audiences, offering a chance to persuade on issues from public health policies to personal wellness.

The importance of mental health awareness is a poignant example, highlighting the societal stigma and lack of resources that often accompany mental health issues. Persuasive arguments advocate for increased funding, education, and support systems to treat mental health with the same urgency and compassion as physical health.

Vaccinations present another critical area, where the debate centers on myths versus facts, addressing vaccine hesitancy fueled by misinformation and emphasizing the role of vaccinations in public health and the eradication of diseases. Persuasive speeches aim to build trust in science, advocate for community health, and counteract the spread of false information that threatens public health initiatives.

The importance of mental health awareness
Vaccinations: Myths vs. Facts
The obesity epidemic: A public health crisis
The benefits of a plant-based diet
The impact of stress on health
Universal healthcare: A right or a privilege?
The dangers of tobacco use
The role of exercise in health
Addressing the opioid crisis
Sleep: The cornerstone of health

Social Issues – Persuasive Speech Topics

Social issues provide a platform to challenge societal norms and advocate for change.

The fight for gender equality is a prime example, of addressing disparities in the workplace, education, and politics. Persuasive speeches on this topic often highlight the ongoing struggle for equal pay, reproductive rights, and the eradication of gender-based violence, aiming to mobilize support for policies that promote gender parity.

Similarly, the topic of racial discrimination confronts the systemic inequalities that pervade many aspects of society, from the criminal justice system to employment and housing. Persuasive arguments in this area seek to illuminate the historical and contemporary impacts of racism, advocating for reforms that ensure equal treatment and opportunities for all, regardless of race.

The fight for gender equality
Racial discrimination: A persistent problem
The importance of LGBTQ+ rights
Poverty: A global challenge
The impact of social media on body image
The refugee crisis: A call for compassion
Child labor: A modern tragedy
The digital divide: Social inequality in the digital age
Animal rights: A moral obligation
The importance of cultural diversity

Economics – Persuasive Speech Topics

Economic topics can persuade audiences on issues ranging from global trade to personal finance.

The debate over the pros and cons of globalization illustrates the complexities of an interconnected world economy, where arguments revolve around the benefits of open markets and trade against the backdrop of job displacement, environmental concerns, and the erosion of local cultures. Advocates for and against globalization present persuasive arguments that weigh economic efficiency and growth against the need for sustainable development and equitable wealth distribution.

Another compelling topic is the impact of the minimum wage on the economy, where speakers might argue for increasing the minimum wage as a means to reduce poverty and stimulate economic activity, while opponents caution against potential job losses and increased costs for businesses.

The pros and cons of globalization
Cryptocurrency: The future of finance?
The impact of minimum wage on the economy
The gig economy: Freedom or exploitation?
Consumerism: The effect on society
The role of government in the economy
Sustainable development: Balancing economy and environment
The debt crisis: Solutions and challenges
The importance of financial literacy
Economic inequality: A growing concern

Ethics Persuasive Speech Topics

Ethical topics challenge audiences to consider their values and the impact of their choices.

The ethics of drone warfare is a contentious topic, raising questions about the morality of using unmanned aerial vehicles in conflict. Arguments might focus on the potential to reduce military casualties and target threats more precisely, against concerns over civilian casualties, the psychological impact on operators, and the broader implications for international law and warfare.

Similarly, the privacy in the digital age debate delves into the ethical considerations surrounding data collection, surveillance, and the right to privacy. Persuasive speeches on this topic might advocate for stronger data protection laws and ethical standards for technology companies, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding personal information in an increasingly digital world.

Animal testing: Necessary evil or moral failure?
The ethics of drone warfare
Privacy in the digital age
The moral implications of euthanasia
The ethics of cloning
Corporate social responsibility
The ethical dilemmas of self-driving cars
The morality of capital punishment
Ethical consumerism: The power of choice
The ethics of surveillance

Science persuasive speech topics can both inform and persuade, from debates on climate change to the potential of space exploration.

The reality of climate change is a critical area, where persuasive arguments are grounded in scientific evidence to counter skepticism and apathy. Speakers emphasize the urgent need for action to mitigate climate change impacts, advocating for renewable energy, conservation efforts, and sustainable practices.

Another engaging topic is the potential of stem cell research, which holds promise for treating a wide range of diseases. Persuasive speeches might explore the ethical considerations, scientific breakthroughs, and regulatory challenges associated with stem cell research, aiming to foster support for this innovative field while addressing ethical concerns.

The reality of climate change
The importance of scientific literacy
Vaccines: Science vs. skepticism
The potential of stem cell research
Space exploration: Worth the cost?
The future of genetic engineering
The role of science in solving global challenges
The ethics of human augmentation
The impact of technology on scientific discovery
The importance of biodiversity

What is the Best Persuasive Speech Topic?

Determining the “best” persuasive speech topic is subjective and depends on several factors, including the speaker’s passion, audience interest, and the context of the speech. However, the most effective topics often share common characteristics: they are timely, relevant, and resonate personally with the audience. The best topics are those that:

Spark Interest: Choose a topic that not only interests you but also has the potential to engage your audience. A topic that evokes curiosity or an emotional response can be particularly compelling.
Are Debatable: A good persuasive speech topic should have clear arguments for and against. This allows for a dynamic discussion and the opportunity to persuade through evidence and reasoning.
Have a Clear Purpose: Whether it’s to inform, convince, or motivate to action, the best topics are those with a clear goal. Knowing what you want to achieve with your speech can guide your preparation and delivery.

How to Research for a Persuasive Speech

Research is crucial for building a strong foundation for your persuasive speech. Here are steps to guide your research process:

Start with Reliable Sources: Use academic databases, reputable news outlets, and official reports to gather information. This ensures that your arguments are based on facts and credible evidence.
Understand All Sides: To persuade effectively, you must understand the counterarguments to your position. This will allow you to address and refute opposing views in your speech.
Use Statistics and Data: Quantifiable evidence can make your argument more compelling. Ensure your data comes from authoritative sources and is up to date.
Incorporate Expert Opinions: Quoting experts who support your position can add authority to your speech. Look for quotes from professionals, academics, or influential figures in the field.

Tips for Delivering a Persuasive Speech

The delivery of your persuasive speech can significantly impact its effectiveness. Here are some tips to help you deliver a powerful speech:

Practice Your Speech

Familiarity with your material will boost your confidence and help you deliver a more natural and engaging speech.

Engage with Your Audience

Make eye contact, use gestures, and vary your vocal tone to keep the audience engaged. Tailoring your message to the audience’s interests and concerns can also increase engagement.

Use Rhetorical Devices

Techniques such as repetition, rhetorical questions, and the rule of three can make your speech more memorable and persuasive.

Handle Nervousness

It’s normal to feel nervous. Techniques like deep breathing, positive visualization, and focusing on your message rather than yourself can help manage speech anxiety.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Persuasive Speeches

Avoiding common pitfalls can enhance the effectiveness of your persuasive speech. Some mistakes to avoid include:

Overloading with Facts

While evidence is crucial, too many facts can overwhelm your audience. Balance your speech with stories, anecdotes, and emotional appeals.

Ignoring the Audience

Failing to consider the audience’s values, beliefs, and knowledge level can make your speech less effective. Tailor your message to resonate with your listeners.

Lack of Structure

A clear and logical structure helps your audience follow your argument. Ensure your speech has a strong introduction, body, and conclusion.

Neglecting the Call to Action

A persuasive speech should motivate the audience to think, feel, or act differently. Be clear about what you want your audience to do after listening to your speech.

By choosing a compelling topic, conducting thorough research, and delivering your speech effectively, you can persuade your audience and make a lasting impact. Remember, the power of persuasion lies not only in the strength of your arguments but also in your ability to connect with and move your audience.

Enhancing Your Persuasive Speech

Understand your audience.

Tailor your message to their values, beliefs, and experiences.
Anticipate counterarguments and address them in your speech.

Use Emotional Appeals

Connect with your audience on an emotional level to make your message more compelling.
Share personal stories or anecdotes that illustrate your points.

Cite Credible Sources

Support your arguments with data and evidence from reputable sources.
This adds credibility to your speech and strengthens your position.

Practice Delivery

Your delivery can be as important as your message.
Practice your speech multiple times, focusing on tone, pace, and body language.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i choose a persuasive speech topic.

Select a topic you are passionate about, as your enthusiasm will be contagious.
Consider the interests and composition of your audience.
Choose a topic that is timely and relevant.

How can I overcome nervousness when speaking?

Practice your speech multiple times in front of a mirror or with friends.
Familiarize yourself with the venue and equipment before your speech.
Remember that feeling nervous is normal; focus on your message rather than your fear.

How do I engage my audience during a persuasive speech?

Start with a strong hook to grab their attention.
Use rhetorical questions to provoke thought and encourage audience participation.
Make eye contact and use gestures to connect with your audience.

Remember, the key to a successful persuasive speech lies not only in what you say but also in how you say it. Engaging with your audience, using evidence to support your arguments, and delivering your message with confidence are all critical components of effective persuasion.

By incorporating these strategies and leveraging the resources provided, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of persuasive speech. Whether you’re advocating for social change, presenting a new idea, or persuading your audience to adopt a new perspective, the power of persuasion is a key tool in your communication arsenal.

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112 Persuasive Speech Topics That Are Actually Engaging

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

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

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

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

Choose Something You’re Passionate About

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

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

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

Steer Clear of Cliches

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

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

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

Have a Clear Side of Opposition

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

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

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

Environment

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

Science & Technology

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

Social Media

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

Parenting & Family

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

Entertainment

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

Arts & Humanities

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

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

Do Your Research

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

Understand Your Audience

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

Have Someone Read Your Speech

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

Practice Makes Perfect

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

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

Social media literacy

Course: social media literacy > unit 3, what is persuasive technology.

Reflection activity: Social media and persuasion

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11.2 Persuasive Speaking

Learning objectives.

Explain how claims, evidence, and warrants function to create an argument.
Identify strategies for choosing a persuasive speech topic.
Identify strategies for adapting a persuasive speech based on an audience’s orientation to the proposition.
Distinguish among propositions of fact, value, and policy.
Choose an organizational pattern that is fitting for a persuasive speech topic.

We produce and receive persuasive messages daily, but we don’t often stop to think about how we make the arguments we do or the quality of the arguments that we receive. In this section, we’ll learn the components of an argument, how to choose a good persuasive speech topic, and how to adapt and organize a persuasive message.

Foundation of Persuasion

Persuasive speaking seeks to influence the beliefs, attitudes, values, or behaviors of audience members. In order to persuade, a speaker has to construct arguments that appeal to audience members. Arguments form around three components: claim, evidence, and warrant. The claim is the statement that will be supported by evidence. Your thesis statement is the overarching claim for your speech, but you will make other claims within the speech to support the larger thesis. Evidence , also called grounds, supports the claim. The main points of your persuasive speech and the supporting material you include serve as evidence. For example, a speaker may make the following claim: “There should be a national law against texting while driving.” The speaker could then support the claim by providing the following evidence: “Research from the US Department of Transportation has found that texting while driving creates a crash risk that is twenty-three times worse than driving while not distracted.” The warrant is the underlying justification that connects the claim and the evidence. One warrant for the claim and evidence cited in this example is that the US Department of Transportation is an institution that funds research conducted by credible experts. An additional and more implicit warrant is that people shouldn’t do things they know are unsafe.

Figure 11.2 Components of an Argument

The quality of your evidence often impacts the strength of your warrant, and some warrants are stronger than others. A speaker could also provide evidence to support their claim advocating for a national ban on texting and driving by saying, “I have personally seen people almost wreck while trying to text.” While this type of evidence can also be persuasive, it provides a different type and strength of warrant since it is based on personal experience. In general, the anecdotal evidence from personal experience would be given a weaker warrant than the evidence from the national research report. The same process works in our legal system when a judge evaluates the connection between a claim and evidence. If someone steals my car, I could say to the police, “I’m pretty sure Mario did it because when I said hi to him on campus the other day, he didn’t say hi back, which proves he’s mad at me.” A judge faced with that evidence is unlikely to issue a warrant for Mario’s arrest. Fingerprint evidence from the steering wheel that has been matched with a suspect is much more likely to warrant arrest.

As you put together a persuasive argument, you act as the judge. You can evaluate arguments that you come across in your research by analyzing the connection (the warrant) between the claim and the evidence. If the warrant is strong, you may want to highlight that argument in your speech. You may also be able to point out a weak warrant in an argument that goes against your position, which you could then include in your speech. Every argument starts by putting together a claim and evidence, but arguments grow to include many interrelated units.

Choosing a Persuasive Speech Topic

As with any speech, topic selection is important and is influenced by many factors. Good persuasive speech topics are current, controversial, and have important implications for society. If your topic is currently being discussed on television, in newspapers, in the lounges in your dorm, or around your family’s dinner table, then it’s a current topic. A persuasive speech aimed at getting audience members to wear seat belts in cars wouldn’t have much current relevance, given that statistics consistently show that most people wear seat belts. Giving the same speech would have been much more timely in the 1970s when there was a huge movement to increase seat-belt use.

Many topics that are current are also controversial, which is what gets them attention by the media and citizens. Current and controversial topics will be more engaging for your audience. A persuasive speech to encourage audience members to donate blood or recycle wouldn’t be very controversial, since the benefits of both practices are widely agreed on. However, arguing that the restrictions on blood donation by men who have had sexual relations with men be lifted would be controversial. I must caution here that controversial is not the same as inflammatory. An inflammatory topic is one that evokes strong reactions from an audience for the sake of provoking a reaction. Being provocative for no good reason or choosing a topic that is extremist will damage your credibility and prevent you from achieving your speech goals.

You should also choose a topic that is important to you and to society as a whole. As we have already discussed in this book, our voices are powerful, as it is through communication that we participate and make change in society. Therefore we should take seriously opportunities to use our voices to speak publicly. Choosing a speech topic that has implications for society is probably a better application of your public speaking skills than choosing to persuade the audience that Lebron James is the best basketball player in the world or that Superman is a better hero than Spiderman. Although those topics may be very important to you, they don’t carry the same social weight as many other topics you could choose to discuss. Remember that speakers have ethical obligations to the audience and should take the opportunity to speak seriously.

You will also want to choose a topic that connects to your own interests and passions. If you are an education major, it might make more sense to do a persuasive speech about funding for public education than the death penalty. If there are hot-button issues for you that make you get fired up and veins bulge out in your neck, then it may be a good idea to avoid those when speaking in an academic or professional context.

Choose a persuasive speech topic that you’re passionate about but still able to approach and deliver in an ethical manner.

Michael Vadon – Nigel Farage – CC BY-SA 2.0.

Choosing such topics may interfere with your ability to deliver a speech in a competent and ethical manner. You want to care about your topic, but you also want to be able to approach it in a way that’s going to make people want to listen to you. Most people tune out speakers they perceive to be too ideologically entrenched and write them off as extremists or zealots.

You also want to ensure that your topic is actually persuasive. Draft your thesis statement as an “I believe” statement so your stance on an issue is clear. Also, think of your main points as reasons to support your thesis. Students end up with speeches that aren’t very persuasive in nature if they don’t think of their main points as reasons. Identifying arguments that counter your thesis is also a good exercise to help ensure your topic is persuasive. If you can clearly and easily identify a competing thesis statement and supporting reasons, then your topic and approach are arguable.

Review of Tips for Choosing a Persuasive Speech Topic

Not current. People should use seat belts.
Current. People should not text while driving.
Not controversial. People should recycle.
Controversial. Recycling should be mandatory by law.
Not as impactful. Superman is the best superhero.
Impactful. Colleges and universities should adopt zero-tolerance bullying policies.
Unclear thesis. Homeschooling is common in the United States.
Clear, argumentative thesis with stance. Homeschooling does not provide the same benefits of traditional education and should be strictly monitored and limited.

Adapting Persuasive Messages

Competent speakers should consider their audience throughout the speech-making process. Given that persuasive messages seek to directly influence the audience in some way, audience adaptation becomes even more important. If possible, poll your audience to find out their orientation toward your thesis. I read my students’ thesis statements aloud and have the class indicate whether they agree with, disagree with, or are neutral in regards to the proposition. It is unlikely that you will have a homogenous audience, meaning that there will probably be some who agree, some who disagree, and some who are neutral. So you may employ all of the following strategies, in varying degrees, in your persuasive speech.

When you have audience members who already agree with your proposition, you should focus on intensifying their agreement. You can also assume that they have foundational background knowledge of the topic, which means you can take the time to inform them about lesser-known aspects of a topic or cause to further reinforce their agreement. Rather than move these audience members from disagreement to agreement, you can focus on moving them from agreement to action. Remember, calls to action should be as specific as possible to help you capitalize on audience members’ motivation in the moment so they are more likely to follow through on the action.

There are two main reasons audience members may be neutral in regards to your topic: (1) they are uninformed about the topic or (2) they do not think the topic affects them. In this case, you should focus on instilling a concern for the topic. Uninformed audiences may need background information before they can decide if they agree or disagree with your proposition. If the issue is familiar but audience members are neutral because they don’t see how the topic affects them, focus on getting the audience’s attention and demonstrating relevance. Remember that concrete and proxemic supporting materials will help an audience find relevance in a topic. Students who pick narrow or unfamiliar topics will have to work harder to persuade their audience, but neutral audiences often provide the most chance of achieving your speech goal since even a small change may move them into agreement.

When audience members disagree with your proposition, you should focus on changing their minds. To effectively persuade, you must be seen as a credible speaker. When an audience is hostile to your proposition, establishing credibility is even more important, as audience members may be quick to discount or discredit someone who doesn’t appear prepared or doesn’t present well-researched and supported information. Don’t give an audience a chance to write you off before you even get to share your best evidence. When facing a disagreeable audience, the goal should also be small change. You may not be able to switch someone’s position completely, but influencing him or her is still a success. Aside from establishing your credibility, you should also establish common ground with an audience.

Build common ground with disagreeable audiences and acknowledge areas of disagreement.

Chris-Havard Berge – Shaking Hands – CC BY-NC 2.0.

Acknowledging areas of disagreement and logically refuting counterarguments in your speech is also a way to approach persuading an audience in disagreement, as it shows that you are open-minded enough to engage with other perspectives.

Determining Your Proposition

The proposition of your speech is the overall direction of the content and how that relates to the speech goal. A persuasive speech will fall primarily into one of three categories: propositions of fact, value, or policy. A speech may have elements of any of the three propositions, but you can usually determine the overall proposition of a speech from the specific purpose and thesis statements.

Propositions of fact focus on beliefs and try to establish that something “is or isn’t.” Propositions of value focus on persuading audience members that something is “good or bad,” “right or wrong,” or “desirable or undesirable.” Propositions of policy advocate that something “should or shouldn’t” be done. Since most persuasive speech topics can be approached as propositions of fact, value, or policy, it is a good idea to start thinking about what kind of proposition you want to make, as it will influence how you go about your research and writing. As you can see in the following example using the topic of global warming, the type of proposition changes the types of supporting materials you would need:

Proposition of fact. Global warming is caused by increased greenhouse gases related to human activity.
Proposition of value. America’s disproportionately large amount of pollution relative to other countries is wrong .
Proposition of policy. There should be stricter emission restrictions on individual cars.

To support propositions of fact, you would want to present a logical argument based on objective facts that can then be used to build persuasive arguments. Propositions of value may require you to appeal more to your audience’s emotions and cite expert and lay testimony. Persuasive speeches about policy usually require you to research existing and previous laws or procedures and determine if any relevant legislation or propositions are currently being considered.

“Getting Critical”

Persuasion and Masculinity

The traditional view of rhetoric that started in ancient Greece and still informs much of our views on persuasion today has been critiqued for containing Western and masculine biases. Traditional persuasion has been linked to Western and masculine values of domination, competition, and change, which have been critiqued as coercive and violent (Gearhart, 1979).

Communication scholars proposed an alternative to traditional persuasive rhetoric in the form of invitational rhetoric. Invitational rhetoric differs from a traditional view of persuasive rhetoric that “attempts to win over an opponent, or to advocate the correctness of a single position in a very complex issue” (Bone et al., 2008). Instead, invitational rhetoric proposes a model of reaching consensus through dialogue. The goal is to create a climate in which growth and change can occur but isn’t required for one person to “win” an argument over another. Each person in a communication situation is acknowledged to have a standpoint that is valid but can still be influenced through the offering of alternative perspectives and the invitation to engage with and discuss these standpoints (Ryan & Natalle, 2001). Safety, value, and freedom are three important parts of invitational rhetoric. Safety involves a feeling of security in which audience members and speakers feel like their ideas and contributions will not be denigrated. Value refers to the notion that each person in a communication encounter is worthy of recognition and that people are willing to step outside their own perspectives to better understand others. Last, freedom is present in communication when communicators do not limit the thinking or decisions of others, allowing all participants to speak up (Bone et al., 2008).

Invitational rhetoric doesn’t claim that all persuasive rhetoric is violent. Instead, it acknowledges that some persuasion is violent and that the connection between persuasion and violence is worth exploring. Invitational rhetoric has the potential to contribute to the civility of communication in our society. When we are civil, we are capable of engaging with and appreciating different perspectives while still understanding our own. People aren’t attacked or reviled because their views diverge from ours. Rather than reducing the world to “us against them, black or white, and right or wrong,” invitational rhetoric encourages us to acknowledge human perspectives in all their complexity (Bone et al., 2008).

What is your reaction to the claim that persuasion includes Western and masculine biases?
What are some strengths and weaknesses of the proposed alternatives to traditional persuasion?
In what situations might an invitational approach to persuasion be useful? In what situations might you want to rely on traditional models of persuasion?

Organizing a Persuasive Speech

We have already discussed several patterns for organizing your speech, but some organization strategies are specific to persuasive speaking. Some persuasive speech topics lend themselves to a topical organization pattern, which breaks the larger topic up into logical divisions. Earlier, in Chapter 9 “Preparing a Speech” , we discussed recency and primacy, and in this chapter we discussed adapting a persuasive speech based on the audience’s orientation toward the proposition. These concepts can be connected when organizing a persuasive speech topically. Primacy means putting your strongest information first and is based on the idea that audience members put more weight on what they hear first. This strategy can be especially useful when addressing an audience that disagrees with your proposition, as you can try to win them over early. Recency means putting your strongest information last to leave a powerful impression. This can be useful when you are building to a climax in your speech, specifically if you include a call to action.

Putting your strongest argument last can help motivate an audience to action.

Celestine Chua – The Change – CC BY 2.0.

The problem-solution pattern is an organizational pattern that advocates for a particular approach to solve a problem. You would provide evidence to show that a problem exists and then propose a solution with additional evidence or reasoning to justify the course of action. One main point addressing the problem and one main point addressing the solution may be sufficient, but you are not limited to two. You could add a main point between the problem and solution that outlines other solutions that have failed. You can also combine the problem-solution pattern with the cause-effect pattern or expand the speech to fit with Monroe’s Motivated Sequence.

As was mentioned in Chapter 9 “Preparing a Speech” , the cause-effect pattern can be used for informative speaking when the relationship between the cause and effect is not contested. The pattern is more fitting for persuasive speeches when the relationship between the cause and effect is controversial or unclear. There are several ways to use causes and effects to structure a speech. You could have a two-point speech that argues from cause to effect or from effect to cause. You could also have more than one cause that lead to the same effect or a single cause that leads to multiple effects. The following are some examples of thesis statements that correspond to various organizational patterns. As you can see, the same general topic area, prison overcrowding, is used for each example. This illustrates the importance of considering your organizational options early in the speech-making process, since the pattern you choose will influence your researching and writing.

Persuasive Speech Thesis Statements by Organizational Pattern

Problem-solution. Prison overcrowding is a serious problem that we can solve by finding alternative rehabilitation for nonviolent offenders.
Problem–failed solution–proposed solution. Prison overcrowding is a serious problem that shouldn’t be solved by building more prisons; instead, we should support alternative rehabilitation for nonviolent offenders.
Cause-effect. Prisons are overcrowded with nonviolent offenders, which leads to lesser sentences for violent criminals.
Cause-cause-effect. State budgets are being slashed and prisons are overcrowded with nonviolent offenders, which leads to lesser sentences for violent criminals.
Cause-effect-effect. Prisons are overcrowded with nonviolent offenders, which leads to increased behavioral problems among inmates and lesser sentences for violent criminals.
Cause-effect-solution. Prisons are overcrowded with nonviolent offenders, which leads to lesser sentences for violent criminals; therefore we need to find alternative rehabilitation for nonviolent offenders.

Monroe’s Motivated Sequence is an organizational pattern designed for persuasive speaking that appeals to audience members’ needs and motivates them to action. If your persuasive speaking goals include a call to action, you may want to consider this organizational pattern. We already learned about the five steps of Monroe’s Motivated Sequence in Chapter 9 “Preparing a Speech” , but we will review them here with an example:

Hook the audience by making the topic relevant to them.
Imagine living a full life, retiring, and slipping into your golden years. As you get older you become more dependent on others and move into an assisted-living facility. Although you think life will be easier, things get worse as you experience abuse and mistreatment from the staff. You report the abuse to a nurse and wait, but nothing happens and the abuse continues. Elder abuse is a common occurrence, and unlike child abuse, there are no laws in our state that mandate complaints of elder abuse be reported or investigated.
Cite evidence to support the fact that the issue needs to be addressed.
According to the American Psychological Association, one to two million elderly US Americans have been abused by their caretakers. In our state, those in the medical, psychiatric, and social work field are required to report suspicion of child abuse but are not mandated to report suspicions of elder abuse.
Offer a solution and persuade the audience that it is feasible and well thought out.
There should be a federal law mandating that suspicion of elder abuse be reported and that all claims of elder abuse be investigated.
Take the audience beyond your solution and help them visualize the positive results of implementing it or the negative consequences of not.
Elderly people should not have to live in fear during their golden years. A mandatory reporting law for elderly abuse will help ensure that the voices of our elderly loved ones will be heard.
Call your audience to action by giving them concrete steps to follow to engage in a particular action or to change a thought or behavior.
I urge you to take action in two ways. First, raise awareness about this issue by talking to your own friends and family. Second, contact your representatives at the state and national level to let them know that elder abuse should be taken seriously and given the same level of importance as other forms of abuse. I brought cards with the contact information for our state and national representatives for this area. Please take one at the end of my speech. A short e-mail or phone call can help end the silence surrounding elder abuse.

Key Takeaways

Arguments are formed by making claims that are supported by evidence. The underlying justification that connects the claim and evidence is the warrant. Arguments can have strong or weak warrants, which will make them more or less persuasive.
Good persuasive speech topics are current, controversial (but not inflammatory), and important to the speaker and society.
When audience members agree with the proposal, focus on intensifying their agreement and moving them to action.
When audience members are neutral in regards to the proposition, provide background information to better inform them about the issue and present information that demonstrates the relevance of the topic to the audience.
When audience members disagree with the proposal, focus on establishing your credibility, build common ground with the audience, and incorporate counterarguments and refute them.
Propositions of fact focus on establishing that something “is or isn’t” or is “true or false.”
Propositions of value focus on persuading an audience that something is “good or bad,” “right or wrong,” or “desirable or undesirable.”
Propositions of policy advocate that something “should or shouldn’t” be done.
Persuasive speeches can be organized using the following patterns: problem-solution, cause-effect, cause-effect-solution, or Monroe’s Motivated Sequence.
Getting integrated: Give an example of persuasive messages that you might need to create in each of the following contexts: academic, professional, personal, and civic. Then do the same thing for persuasive messages you may receive.
To help ensure that your persuasive speech topic is persuasive and not informative, identify the claims, evidence, and warrants you may use in your argument. In addition, write a thesis statement that refutes your topic idea and identify evidence and warrants that could support that counterargument.
Determine if your speech is primarily a proposition of fact, value, or policy. How can you tell? Identify an organizational pattern that you think will work well for your speech topic, draft one sentence for each of your main points, and arrange them according to the pattern you chose.

Bone, J. E., Cindy L. Griffin, and T. M. Linda Scholz, “Beyond Traditional Conceptualizations of Rhetoric: Invitational Rhetoric and a Move toward Civility,” Western Journal of Communication 72 (2008): 436.

Gearhart, S. M., “The Womanization of Rhetoric,” Women’s Studies International Quarterly 2 (1979): 195–201.

Ryan, K. J., and Elizabeth J. Natalle, “Fusing Horizons: Standpoint Hermenutics and Invitational Rhetoric,” Rhetoric Society Quarterly 31 (2001): 69–90.

Communication in the Real World Copyright © 2016 by University of Minnesota is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

15 Persuasive Speeches

Speeches that Make a Change

In this chapter . . .

For many public speeches, the specific purpose is to convince the audience of a particular opinion or claim or to convince them to take some action in response to the speech. When your intention is to affect change in your audience (not just the acquisition of knowledge) then you are delivering a persuasive speech. In this chapter you will learn about the elements of persuasion, why persuasion is difficult, and how to overcome people’s resistance to change by using effective and ethical methods.

Although a persuasive speech involves information—even as much as an informative speech—the key difference is that a persuasive speech is designed for “creating, reinforcing, or changing people’s beliefs or actions” (Lucas, 2015. p. 306). A persuasive speech makes something happen. In other words, it performs a job.

Traditional Views of Persuasion

In the fourth century BCE, the classic philosopher Aristotle took up the study of the public practices of the ruling class in Athenian society. For two years he observed the rhetoric (the art of persuasion) of the men who spoke in the assembly and the courts. In the end, he developed a theory about persuasiveness that has come down to us in history as a treatise called Rhetoric. Among his many ideas was the identification of three elements essential to persuasion: ethos, logos, and pathos. In short, they mean credibility, reasonability, and emotion.

Ethos has come to mean speaker character and credentials. It is the element that establishes the audience’s trust in you as a speaker. A speaker’s credibility is based on who the speaker is and what they know: experience, education, expertise, and background. If you’re delivering a persuasive speech about adopting a pet from a shelter and you have raised several shelter dogs, then you have credibility through experience and should share that fact about yourself with the audience to enhance their trust in your persuasive argument. Another way to establish your credibility is through research sources. You may not be an expert in climate change, but if you were giving a persuasive speech about it, you can cite reliable authoritative sources.

The word ethos looks very much like the word “ethics,” and there are many close parallels to the trust an audience has in a speaker and their honesty and ethical stance. In terms of ethics, it goes without saying that your speech will be truthful.

In addition to expertise and truthfulness is your personal involvement in the topic. Ideally you have chosen the topic because it means something to you personally. Audiences will have more trust in you if they feel you have something as stake or something personal in the subject. For example, perhaps your speech is designed to motivate audience members to take action against bullying in schools, and it’s important to you because you work with the Boys and Girls Club organization and have seen how anti-bullying programs can have positive results. Sharing your own involvement and commitment is key to establishing your credibility on this topic.

Logos is the second key element in Aristotle’s theory of rhetoric. Related to our word “logic,” the Greek term logos in persuasion means presenting ideas that appeal to logic or reason. Logos in a speech pertain to arguments that the audience would find acceptable. Imagine a speech, for example, which has the goal of persuading an audience to adopt healthier eating habits. Would the speech be effective if the arguments focused on how expensive organic foods are? Of course not.

Logic and reason are persuasive not only as matters of content. Logos pertains to organization, as well. An effective persuasive speech presents arguments in an organized fashion.

In words like “empathy,” “sympathy,” and “compassion” we see the root word behind the Greek word pathos. Pathos, for Aristotle, meant exciting emotions such as anger, joy, hate, love, and desire to persuade the audience of the rightness of a proposition. In a positive sense, appealing to the emotions of the audience is a highly effective persuasive tool. In the earlier example of a speech designed to encourage an audience to take action against bullying in schools, including a touching story about a student experiencing bullying would make the audience more likely to support your call for action.

However, we recognize that pathos can be used in a negative way. Emotional appeals that use anger, guilt, hatred, inflammatory language like name-calling, or that try to frighten the audience with horrible images, are counter-productive and even unethical. They might incite emotion in the audience, but they are poor uses of pathos.

One negative emotion used frequently by persuasive speakers is fear. Candidates for political office, for example, often try to provoke fear to move us to vote for them. Intense, over-the-top fear appeals, based on factual falsehoods or cherry-picking, and/or including shocking photos, are not ethical and are often dismissed by discerning audience members. Appealing to the emotion of fear can be ethical if it’s managed carefully. This means being strictly factual and avoiding extremes.

Persuasion and the Audience

It makes sense that if a speaker wants to affect the audience’s beliefs or actions, then the speaker must be perfectly clear about their expectations. If you were listening to a persuasive speech call for your audience to support animals, wouldn’t you want to know exactly what “support” the speaker was talking about? Giving money to charities? Volunteering at an animal shelter? Writing state legislators and urging them to change laws? Your job as a persuasive speaker is to be clear about what you want to create, reinforce, or change in your audience.

For your speech to have persuasive power, you must also consider your audience and choose a goal that is feasible for them. Persuasion isn’t an on/off switch. It’s more like a thermometer. Skillful persuasive speakers respect and identify a persuasive goal that is calibrated to the audience. Think of persuasion as a continuum or line going both directions. At one end is strong disagreement. At the other end is strong agreement. Your audience members, either as a group or individually, are sitting somewhere on that line in relation to your central idea statement, or what we are going to call a proposition in this chapter.

For example, your speech proposition might be something like “The main cause of climate change is human activity.” You are claiming that climate change is due to the harmful things that humans have done to the environment. To be an effective persuasive speaker, one of your first jobs after choosing this topic would be to determine where your audience “sits” on the continuum.

+ 3 means strongly agree to the point of making lifestyle choices to lessen climate change (such as riding a bike instead of driving a car, recycling, eating certain kinds of foods, and advocating for government policy changes). + 2 means agree but not to the point of acting upon it or only acting on it in small ways. + 1 as mildly agrees with your proposition; that is, they think it’s probably true, but the issue doesn’t affect them personally. 0 means neutral, no opinion, or feeling too uninformed to decide. – 1 means mildly opposed to the proposition but willing to listen to those with whom they disagree. – 2 means disagreement to the point of dismissing the idea pretty quickly. – 3 means strong opposition to the point that the concept of climate change itself isn’t even listened to or acknowledged as a valid subject.

Since everyone in the audience is somewhere on this line or continuum, you can accept the fact that any movement toward +3 or to the right is a win. Trying to change an audience from -3 (strong disagreement) to +3 (strong agreement) in a single speech would be quite impossible. When you understand this, you can make strategic choices about the content of your speech.

In this example, if you knew that most of the audience was at -2 or -3, your speech could focus on opening their minds to the possibility of climate change and provide the science behind human causes. On the other hand, if you knew your audience was at +1 or +2, you could focus on urging them to take bold steps, like giving up their gasoline-powered vehicles.

A proposition is assumed to be in some way controversial, or a “stretch” for the audience. Some people in the audience will disagree with your proposition or at least have no opinion; they are not “on your side.”

There will be those in the audience who disagree with your proposition but who are willing to listen. Some members of the audience may already agree with you, although they don’t know why. Both groups could be called the target audience . At the same time, another cluster of your audience may be extremely opposed to your position to the degree that they probably will not give you a fair hearing. They probably can’t be persuaded. Focus on your target audience, they are the one you can persuade.

Why is Persuasion Hard?

Persuasion is hard mainly because we have a bias against change. We go out of our way to protect our beliefs, attitudes, and values. We selectively expose ourselves to messages that we already agree with, rather than those that confront or challenge us. We find it uncomfortable to be confronted with conflicting information or viewpoints.

Additionally, during a persuasive speech the audience members are holding a mental dialogue with the speaker or at least the speaker’s content. The processes that the human mind goes through while it listens to a persuasive message is like a silent conversation. In their minds, audience members are producing doubts or reservations about your proposal. If we could listen in on one of these conversations, it might go something like this:

Speaker: Switching to a plant-based diet is the best action you can take to support a reduction in the CO-2 emissions harming the climate. Audience Member Mind: Yeah, I hear what you’re saying, but eating like that won’t give me enough protein.

The audience member has a doubt or reservation about the speaker’s proposal. We can call these doubts “yeah, buts” because the audience members are thinking, “Yeah, but what about—?” It’s a skill of good persuasion speechwriting to anticipate reservations.

Solutions to the Difficulty of Persuasion

With these reasons for the resistance audience members have to persuasion, what is a speaker to do? Here are some strategies.

First, choose a feasible goal for the persuasive action you want the audience to take. Going back to our continuum, trying to move an audience from -3 to +2 or +3 is too big a move. Having reasonable persuasive goals is the first way to meet resistance. Even moving someone from -3 to -2 is progress, and over time these small shifts can eventually result in a significant amount of persuasion.

Secondly, as speakers we must address reservations. While speechwriters aren’t mind-readers, we can easily imagine reservations about our proposition and build a response to those reservations into the speech. Using the example above, a speaker might say:

Switching to a plant-based diet is the best action you can take to support a reduction in the CO-2 emissions harming the climate. I urge all of you to consider this important dietary change. Perhaps you are thinking that a plant-based diet won’t provide enough protein. That is a common concern. Nutritionists at the website Forks Over Knives explain how the staples of a PB diet—whole grains, legumes, and nuts—provide ample protein.

Here, the speaker acknowledges a valid reservation and then offers a rebuttal. This is called a two-tailed argument. The speaker articulates a possible argument against their proposition and then refutes it.

The third strategy is to keep in mind that since you are asking the audience to change something, they must view the benefits of the change as worth the stress of the change. In effect, audiences want to know: “What’s in it for me?” (WIIFM). As a speaker, you should give thought to that question and in your speech address the benefit, advantage, or improvement that the audience will gain by taking the action you propose.

Structure of a Persuasive Speech

A persuasive speech shares with an informational speech the same four elements for a strongly structured speech: introduction, body, conclusion, and connectors. Like informative speeches, preparation requires thoughtful attention to the given circumstances of the speech occasion, as well as audience analysis in terms of demographic and psychographic features. That said, there are some elements unique to a persuasive speech.

General and Specific Purpose General Purpose: To Persuade Specific Purpose: To motivate my audience of campus administrators to provide LGBTQ+ safe spaces on campus.

This looks familiar up to this point. The general purpose is one of the three broad speech goals (to instruct, to persuade, to inspire or entertain). The specific purpose statement follows a clear T.W.A.C. pattern:

T o + W ord: To convince A udience: campus administrators C ontent: LGBTQ+ safe spaces

What is unique to persuasive speeches is what comes next, the proposition.

Propositions

Informational speeches require a thesis. This is the central idea of the speech; its “takeaway.” Persuasive speeches equally require a strong focus on the main idea, but we call this something else: a proposition . A proposition is a statement that expresses a judgement or opinion about which you want audience in agreement. Remember that propositions must be something that can be argued. To say, “The earth is round” isn’t a proposition. “The earth is flat” is a proposition.

Converting to solar energy saves homeowners money.
A vegan diet is the most ethical way to eat.
Universities should provide on-line learning options for all classes.
The Constitution’s Second Amendment does not include possession of automatic weapons for private use.

Like a thesis statement for an informative speech, a proposition statement is best when it not only clearly states the judgment or opinion for which you seek audience agreement, but also provides a succinct preview of the reasons for that judgement.

Universities should provide LGBTQ+ safe spaces on campus to promote visibility, build community, and protect well-being for LGBTQ+ students and their allies.

Types of Propositions

If you take a closer look at the propositions above, you’ll notice that they suggest several types of persuasion. In fact, there are several broad categories of propositions, determined by their primary goal. These are: a) propositions of fact, b) propositions of value, c) propositions of policy, and d) propositions of definition.

Proposition of Fact

Speeches with this type of proposition attempt to establish the truth of a statement. The core of the proposition isn’t whether something is morally right or wrong, only that a statement is supported by evidence or not. These propositions are not facts such as “the chemical symbol for water is H20.” Rather, propositions of fact are statements over which people disagree and there is evidence on both sides. Some examples of propositions of fact are:

Experiments using animals are essential to the development of many life-saving medical procedures.
Climate change has been caused by human activity.

Notice that in none of these are any values—good or bad—mentioned. The point of these propositions is to prove with evidence the truth of a statement.

Proposition of Value

Propositions of fact have the primary purpose of arguing that something exists in a particular way. Propositions of value, on the other hand, have as their primary purpose to argue that one thing is better than another. When the proposition has a word such as “good,” “bad,” “best,” “worst,” “just,” “unjust,” “ethical,” “unethical,” “moral,” “immoral,” “beneficial,” “harmful,” “advantageous,” or “disadvantageous,” then it’s a proposition of value. Some examples include:

Hybrid cars are the best form of automobile transportation available today.
Mascots that involve Native American names, characters, and symbols are unjust.

Propositions of value require a first step: defining the “value” word. If you are trying to convince your audience that something is “unjust,” you will have to make clear what you mean by that term. For different people, “best” might mean “safest,” “least expensive,” “most environmentally responsible,” “stylish,” “powerful,” or “prestigious.” Obviously, in the case of the first proposition above, it means “environmentally responsible.” It’s the first job of the speaker, after introducing the speech and stating the proposition, to explain what “best form of automobile transportation” means. Then the proposition would be defended with separate arguments.

Proposition of Policy

These propositions are easy to identify because they almost always have the word “should” in them. These propositions call for a change in policy or practice (including those in a government, community, or school), or they can call for the audience to adopt a certain behavior.

The federal government should act to ensure clean water standards for all citizens.
Universities should eliminate attendance requirements.
States should lower taxes on food.

The proposition determines the approach to the speech, especially the organization. The exact phrasing of the proposition should be carefully done to be reasonable, positive, and appropriate for the context and audience.

Propositions of Definition

Propositions of definitions argue that a word, phrase, or concept has a particular meaning. Lawyers, legislators, and scholars often write briefs, present persuasive speeches, or compose articles to define terms that are vital to defendants, citizens, or disciplines. Some examples might be:

The Second Amendment to the Constitution does not include possession of automatic weapons for private use.
Alcoholism should be considered a disease because…
Thomas Jefferson’s definition of inalienable rights did not include a right to privacy.

In each of these examples, the proposition is that the definition of these things needs to be changed or viewed differently, but the audience isn’t asked to change an attitude or action.

These are not strict categories. A proposition of value most likely contains elements of facts and definitions, for example. However, identifying the primary category for a persuasive speech focuses the speaker on the ultimate purpose of the speech.

Pro-Arguments

Once you know your proposition, the next step is to make your case for your judgement or opinion through clear and distinct points. These are the main points of the body of your persuasive speech. We call these the “pro” or “for” arguments. You should present at least three distinct arguments in favor of your proposition. Expanding on the example above,

General Purpose: To Persuade Specific Purpose: To motivate my audience of campus administrators to provide LGBTQ+ safe spaces on campus. Proposition: Universities should provide LGBTQ+ safe spaces on campus in order to promote visibility, build community, and protect well-being for LGBTQ+ students and their allies.

Three pro-arguments for the proposition are:

Pro-Argument #1: Creating a safe space makes LGBTQ+ community more visible and central to campus life, instead of marginalized. Pro-Argument #2: Safe spaces create a place where LGBTQ+ and their allies learn to build networks, friendship, and support circles. Pro-Argument #3: With a safe and centralized space bringing together this community, instances of bias or harassment can be brought to counselors, making for a safer community.

Two-Tailed Arguments

There is one more crucial element following pro-arguments. These are unique to persuasive speeches. As discussed above, it’s essential to anticipate and address audience reservations about your propositions. These are the two-tailed arguments that articulate the reservation and then address it or refute it. In the example we’re using, such a statement might look like this:

“Perhaps you are thinking that an LGBTQ+ safe space isn’t necessary on campus because there are already places on campus that provide this function. I understand that concern. However, a space that is officially provided by the University provides access to resources with trained personnel. The national organization CampusPride provides training to university facilitators for exactly this reason.”

There are some techniques for rebuttal or refutation that work better than others. You would not want to say, “If you are one of the people who believe this about my proposition, you are wrong.” It’s better to say that their reservations are “misconceptions,” “myths,” or “mistaken ideas” that are commonly held about the proposition.

Building Upon Your Persuasive Speech’s Arguments

Once you have constructed the key arguments, it’s time to be sure the main points are well supported with evidence.

First, your evidence should be from sources that the audience will find credible. If you can find the same essential information from two sources but know that the audience will find the information more credible from one source than another, use and cite the information from the more credible one. For example, if you find the same statistical data on Wikipedia and the US Department of Labor’s website, cite the US Department of Labor. Audiences also accept information from sources they consider unbiased or indifferent. Gallup polls, for example, have been considered reliable sources of survey data because unlike some organizations, Gallup does not have a cause (political or otherwise) it’s supporting.

Secondly, your evidence should be new to the audience. New evidence is more attention-getting, and you will appear more credible if you tell the audience something new (as long as you cite it well) than if you use the “same old, same old” evidence they have heard before.

Third, in order to be effective and ethical, your supporting evidence should be relevant and not used out of context, manipulated, or edited to change its meaning.

After choosing the evidence and apportioning it to the correct parts of the speech, you will want to consider the use of metaphors, quotations, rhetorical devices, and narratives that will enhance the language and “listenability” of your speech. Narratives are especially good for introduction and conclusions, to get attention and to leave the audience with something dramatic. You might refer to the narrative in the introduction again in the conclusion to give the speech a sense of finality.

Lastly, you will want to decide if you should use any type of presentation aid for the speech. The decision to use visuals such as PowerPoint slides or a video clip in a persuasive speech should take into consideration the effect of the visuals on the audience and the time allotted for the speech. The charts, graphs, or photographs you use should be focused and credibly done.

Organization of a Persuasive Speech

You can see that the overall structure of a persuasive speech follows a common model: introduction, body (arguments and support), two-tailed arguments, and conclusion. Study the example at the end of this chapter to see this structure in action.

In speechwriting, you can think of a speech structure like the building of a house and organization like the arrangement of the rooms within it. As with other speeches, persuasive speeches can be organized topically, chronologically, or spatially. However, persuasive speeches often follow a problem-solution or problem-cause-solution pattern.

Organization for a proposition of fact

If your proposition is one of fact or definition, it will be best to use a topical organization for the body of your speech. That means that you will have two to four discrete, separate topics in support of the proposition.

Proposition: Converting to solar energy saves homeowners money.

(Pro-Argument 1) Solar energy can be economical to install.
(Pro-Argument 2) The government awards grants for solar.
(Pro-Argument 3) Solar energy reduces power bills.
(Pro-Argument 4) Solar energy requires less money for maintenance.

Organization for a proposition of value

A persuasive speech that incorporates a proposition of value will have a slightly different structure. A proposition of value must first define the “value” word for clarity and provide a basis for the other arguments of the speech. Then the pro-arguments for the proposition based on the definition.

Proposition: Hybrid cars are the best form of automotive transportation available today.

(Definition of value) Automotive transportation that is best meets three standards: dependable, economical, and environmentally responsible.
(Pro-Argument 1) Studies show that hybrid cars are durable and dependable.
(Pro-Argument 2) Hybrid cars are fuel-efficient.
(Pro-Argument 3) Hybrid cars are environmentally responsible.

Organization for a propositions of policy

The most common type of outline organizations for speeches with propositions of policy is problem-solution or problem-cause-solution. Typically, we don’t feel any motivation to change unless we are convinced that some harm, problem, need, or deficiency exists, and even more, that it affects us personally. Therefore, the organization of a speech about policy needs to first explain the problem and its cause, followed by the solution in the form of 3-5 pro-arguments.

Proposition: Universities should provide on-line learning options for all classes.

(Problem) Regular attendance in a physical classroom is no longer possible for all students.
(Cause) Changes brought about by the COVID pandemic have made guaranteed classroom attendance difficult.
(Pro-Argument 1) Providing on-line learning options protects the health of students.
(Pro-Argument 2) On-line learning serves students who cannot come to campus.
(Pro-Argument 3) Access to on-line learning allows students to maintain employment while still going to school.

To complete this outline, along with introduction and conclusion, your pro-arguments should be supported with fact, quotations, and statistics.

Your persuasive speech in class, as well as in real life, is an opportunity to share a passion or cause that you believe will matter to society and help the audience live a better life. Even if you are initially uncomfortable with the idea of persuasion, we use it all the time in diverse ways. Choose your topic based on your commitment and experience, look for quality evidence, craft your proposition so that it will be clear and audience appropriate, and put the finishing touches on it with an eye toward enhancing your logos , ethos , and pathos .

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Persuasive Speech Outline, with Examples

March 17, 2021 - Gini Beqiri

A persuasive speech is a speech that is given with the intention of convincing the audience to believe or do something. This could be virtually anything – voting, organ donation, recycling, and so on.

A successful persuasive speech effectively convinces the audience to your point of view, providing you come across as trustworthy and knowledgeable about the topic you’re discussing.

So, how do you start convincing a group of strangers to share your opinion? And how do you connect with them enough to earn their trust?

Topics for your persuasive speech

We’ve made a list of persuasive speech topics you could use next time you’re asked to give one. The topics are thought-provoking and things which many people have an opinion on.

When using any of our persuasive speech ideas, make sure you have a solid knowledge about the topic you’re speaking about – and make sure you discuss counter arguments too.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

All school children should wear a uniform
Facebook is making people more socially anxious
It should be illegal to drive over the age of 80
Lying isn’t always wrong
The case for organ donation

Read our full list of 75 persuasive speech topics and ideas .

Preparation: Consider your audience

As with any speech, preparation is crucial. Before you put pen to paper, think about what you want to achieve with your speech. This will help organise your thoughts as you realistically can only cover 2-4 main points before your audience get bored .

It’s also useful to think about who your audience are at this point. If they are unlikely to know much about your topic then you’ll need to factor in context of your topic when planning the structure and length of your speech. You should also consider their:

Cultural or religious backgrounds
Shared concerns, attitudes and problems
Shared interests, beliefs and hopes
Baseline attitude – are they hostile, neutral, or open to change?

The factors above will all determine the approach you take to writing your speech. For example, if your topic is about childhood obesity, you could begin with a story about your own children or a shared concern every parent has. This would suit an audience who are more likely to be parents than young professionals who have only just left college.

Remember the 3 main approaches to persuade others

There are three main approaches used to persuade others:

The ethos approach appeals to the audience’s ethics and morals, such as what is the ‘right thing’ to do for humanity, saving the environment, etc.

Pathos persuasion is when you appeal to the audience’s emotions, such as when you tell a story that makes them the main character in a difficult situation.

The logos approach to giving a persuasive speech is when you appeal to the audience’s logic – ie. your speech is essentially more driven by facts and logic. The benefit of this technique is that your point of view becomes virtually indisputable because you make the audience feel that only your view is the logical one.

Ethos, Pathos, Logos: 3 Pillars of Public Speaking and Persuasion

Ideas for your persuasive speech outline

1. structure of your persuasive speech.

The opening and closing of speech are the most important. Consider these carefully when thinking about your persuasive speech outline. A strong opening ensures you have the audience’s attention from the start and gives them a positive first impression of you.

You’ll want to start with a strong opening such as an attention grabbing statement, statistic of fact. These are usually dramatic or shocking, such as:

Sadly, in the next 18 minutes when I do our chat, four Americans that are alive will be dead from the food that they eat – Jamie Oliver

Another good way of starting a persuasive speech is to include your audience in the picture you’re trying to paint. By making them part of the story, you’re embedding an emotional connection between them and your speech.

You could do this in a more toned-down way by talking about something you know that your audience has in common with you. It’s also helpful at this point to include your credentials in a persuasive speech to gain your audience’s trust.

Speech structure and speech argument for a persuasive speech outline.

Obama would spend hours with his team working on the opening and closing statements of his speech.

2. Stating your argument

You should pick between 2 and 4 themes to discuss during your speech so that you have enough time to explain your viewpoint and convince your audience to the same way of thinking.

It’s important that each of your points transitions seamlessly into the next one so that your speech has a logical flow. Work on your connecting sentences between each of your themes so that your speech is easy to listen to.

Your argument should be backed up by objective research and not purely your subjective opinion. Use examples, analogies, and stories so that the audience can relate more easily to your topic, and therefore are more likely to be persuaded to your point of view.

3. Addressing counter-arguments

Any balanced theory or thought addresses and disputes counter-arguments made against it. By addressing these, you’ll strengthen your persuasive speech by refuting your audience’s objections and you’ll show that you are knowledgeable to other thoughts on the topic.

When describing an opposing point of view, don’t explain it in a bias way – explain it in the same way someone who holds that view would describe it. That way, you won’t irritate members of your audience who disagree with you and you’ll show that you’ve reached your point of view through reasoned judgement. Simply identify any counter-argument and pose explanations against them.

Complete Guide to Debating

4. Closing your speech

Your closing line of your speech is your last chance to convince your audience about what you’re saying. It’s also most likely to be the sentence they remember most about your entire speech so make sure it’s a good one!

The most effective persuasive speeches end with a call to action . For example, if you’ve been speaking about organ donation, your call to action might be asking the audience to register as donors.

Practice answering AI questions on your speech and get feedback on your performance .

If audience members ask you questions, make sure you listen carefully and respectfully to the full question. Don’t interject in the middle of a question or become defensive.

You should show that you have carefully considered their viewpoint and refute it in an objective way (if you have opposing opinions). Ensure you remain patient, friendly and polite at all times.

Example 1: Persuasive speech outline

This example is from the Kentucky Community and Technical College.

Specific purpose

To persuade my audience to start walking in order to improve their health.

Central idea

Regular walking can improve both your mental and physical health.

Introduction

Let’s be honest, we lead an easy life: automatic dishwashers, riding lawnmowers, T.V. remote controls, automatic garage door openers, power screwdrivers, bread machines, electric pencil sharpeners, etc., etc. etc. We live in a time-saving, energy-saving, convenient society. It’s a wonderful life. Or is it?

Example 2: Persuasive speech

Tips for delivering your persuasive speech

Practice, practice, and practice some more . Record yourself speaking and listen for any nervous habits you have such as a nervous laugh, excessive use of filler words, or speaking too quickly.
Show confident body language . Stand with your legs hip width apart with your shoulders centrally aligned. Ground your feet to the floor and place your hands beside your body so that hand gestures come freely. Your audience won’t be convinced about your argument if you don’t sound confident in it. Find out more about confident body language here .
Don’t memorise your speech word-for-word or read off a script. If you memorise your persuasive speech, you’ll sound less authentic and panic if you lose your place. Similarly, if you read off a script you won’t sound genuine and you won’t be able to connect with the audience by making eye contact . In turn, you’ll come across as less trustworthy and knowledgeable. You could simply remember your key points instead, or learn your opening and closing sentences.
Remember to use facial expressions when storytelling – they make you more relatable. By sharing a personal story you’ll more likely be speaking your truth which will help you build a connection with the audience too. Facial expressions help bring your story to life and transport the audience into your situation.
Keep your speech as concise as possible . When practicing the delivery, see if you can edit it to have the same meaning but in a more succinct way. This will keep the audience engaged.

The best persuasive speech ideas are those that spark a level of controversy. However, a public speech is not the time to express an opinion that is considered outside the norm. If in doubt, play it safe and stick to topics that divide opinions about 50-50.

Bear in mind who your audience are and plan your persuasive speech outline accordingly, with researched evidence to support your argument. It’s important to consider counter-arguments to show that you are knowledgeable about the topic as a whole and not bias towards your own line of thought.

Choose Your Test

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

General Education

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

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

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

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

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

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

It's a Topic People Care About

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

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

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

It Isn't Overdone

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

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

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

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

105 Topics for a Persuasive Speech

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

Arts/Culture

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

Government/Politics

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

Science/Environment

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

3 Bonus Tips for Crafting Your Persuasive Speech

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

Do Your Research

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

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

Consider All the Angles

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

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

Know Your Audience

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

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

More Resources for Writing Persuasive Speeches

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

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

Conclusion: Persuasive Speech Ideas

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

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

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

Do your research
Consider all the angles
Know your audience

What's Next?

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

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

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

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

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

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

These recommendations are based solely on our knowledge and experience. If you purchase an item through one of our links, PrepScholar may receive a commission.

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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15 Ethical Dimensions of Persuasive Technology

James Williams, Former Google Advertising Strategist, Oxford-Trained Philosopher

Published: 19 December 2022
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This chapter explores the ethical dimensions of persuasive technology. It mentions persuasion as one of the most prevalent and consequential forms of interaction. The technological advancements of persuasion occurred in tandem with advances in the understanding of human psychology and decision-making. Since the ethics of persuasive technology intersects with many other areas of applied ethics, issues of persuasion may coexist with ethical issues that stem from the nature of technology. Generally, the ethical considerations that arise from a technology's persuasiveness per se concern questions of autonomy. The chapter notes the future of persuasive technology ethics that revolves around mitigating risks and enhancing the autonomy of persuasive technology.

Introduction

Persuasion is as old as humanity. It is one of the most prevalent and consequential forms of interaction. Its pathways of influence span the conscious and unconscious, rational and nonrational, verbal and nonverbal. Its nature and ethics have been debated since antiquity. However, as networked digital technologies have rapidly transformed our capacities for managing information and attention, they have amplified and extended the means of persuasion in unprecedented ways. These technological advancements have occurred in tandem with advances in the understanding of human psychology and decision making, knowledge of which has been increasingly brought to bear on their design and deployment. The proliferation and power of these new forms of technological persuasion have brought fresh attention to age-old ethical questions about persuasion and raised other ones which are newly salient.

The ethics of persuasive technology intersects with many other areas of applied ethics, yet it also raises distinctive ethical considerations in its own right. Issues of persuasion may coexist with ethical issues that stem from the nature of a technology, for example, its reliance on automation, machine learning, or robotics. Similarly, the ethics of persuasive technology may overlap with ethical issues that emerge from the particular application domain of a technology’s usage, such as in health, education, or advertising. Yet, persuasive technologies also present unique ethical considerations of their own which arise from the persuasion per se —considerations that broadly pertain to issues of autonomy. While the ethics of persuasive technologies remains an emerging area of study, scholarly attention to the issues it presents has advanced briskly in recent years. Research in the area has broadly been concerned with clarifying the ethical issues persuasive technologies raise and bringing ethical thinking to bear on their design.

In this chapter, I provide an overview of the high-level issues in this area by addressing three questions. First, what counts as a ‘persuasive’ technology? Second, what are the main ethical issues raised by persuasive technologies? Third, what major questions loom on the horizon for the ethics of persuasive technology?

What is a ‘persuasive’ technology?

A toy tiger encourages a two-year-old to exercise. A mobile app hooks a teenager into loops of constant status-checking. An advertising platform’s algorithmic logic nudges a father to buy a new lawnmower (for more on digital nudging, see Ienca and Vayena , this volume). A home-care robot reminds an elderly woman to take her evening medicine. A self-driving taxi offers its occupant a discount for stopping at a nearby fast-food restaurant to get a milkshake.

There is a particular class of digital technology, only recently emergent in our lives, that as yet has no consensus term. It overlaps with but is not coextensive with design that has been described in terms of ‘nudging’, ‘gamification’, ‘behaviour change’, ‘dark patterns’, ‘smart’ technology, and many other descriptors. It has also become common to describe these technologies as ‘persuasive’ technologies. While this term is not wholly satisfactory, it is sufficient to enable a high-level ethical discussion of this domain (and is much preferable to hastily concocting another ill-considered neologism).

What does it mean to describe a technology as ‘persuasive’? At its most basic level, the label is a metaphor drawn from the domain of interpersonal communication which emphasizes similarities between a technology’s operation and human capacities of influence, much as the term ‘artificial intelligence’ does with capacities of pattern recognition, logic, attention, and other aspects of human intelligence. If we adapt an early definition of artificial intelligence given by McCarthy and colleagues in 1955 ( McCarthy et al. 2006 ), we might say that a persuasive technology is one which is ‘behaving in ways that would be considered’ persuasive ‘if a human were so behaving’. While this is a useful starting point, when we turn to specific cases, the lines of comparison between technological persuasion and interpersonal persuasion quickly become hard to draw. And, of course, this anthropomorphic definition does not clarify the central definitional question of what counts as persuasion in the first place.

There is a wide sense in which any technology can be described as ‘persuasive’ by virtue of its mere influence. That is not the kind of persuasiveness I am interested in here. That common form of influence relates to questions of a technology’s ‘affordances’, ‘biases’, or ‘intentionality’ and is an important subject of analysis in its own right—one that has widely been recognized as morally salient ( Winner 1980 ; Borgmann 1987 ; Latour 1992 , Floridi and Sanders 2004 ; Verbeek 2011 ). A slightly narrower sense of ‘persuasive’, though one that is still too wide for our purposes here, involves technologies that are designed intentionally to influence. Similarly, to be a ‘persuasive’ technology, it is not sufficient that a technology merely enable persuasion, for example, a forum or email client that allows users to send persuasive messages to one another. In other words, a persuasive technology is persuasive because of its form, not because of its content.

Here it is particularly important to distinguish between persuasive technology as a category of technology and Persuasive Technology as a field of study. In the early years of the twenty-first century, B.J. Fogg’s ( Fogg 2002 ; Fogg et al. 2007 ) work in applying novel insights from behavioural psychology to the design and analysis of personal computing technologies catalysed an interdisciplinary subfield known as Persuasive Technology. (Hereafter, to avoid confusion I will capitalize the term Persuasive Technology when referring to the field and use lower case when referring to the type of technology.) In the years since, the field has proved useful for advancing research into persuasive technologies across application domains and disciplinary boundaries as well as bringing attention to the mechanisms of influence common to these systems ( Fogg 2002 ; Oinas-Kukkonen and Harjumaa 2008 ).

Within the field of Persuasive Technology, the term ‘persuasive technology’ has broadly been defined by the presence of three necessary conditions: there must be (a) an intention on the part of its designers to (b) change, reinforce, or otherwise shape human behaviour, attitudes, or both, in (c) a manner that is not coercive. Condition (a) seems overly restrictive of the agents behind a technology but is salvageable if we interpret ‘designers’ to mean not the narrow set of agents, such as programmers and user-interface designers, who design the technology in a hands-on manner but rather interpret the term more broadly to mean any agent with a substantial influence on the resulting design. This could include leaders of an organization, those who set higher-level goals (such as business models or other organizational priorities), or similar agents who exercise systemic influence rather than direct influence on the design. Condition (b) is, for our purposes, broadly unobjectionable. The third condition, however—the requirement that a persuasive technology be noncoercive—presents three problems. First, it amounts to a negative definition of ‘persuasiveness’, framing it not in terms of what it is but in terms of what it is not. Second, the nature of coercion remains a subject of considerable debate, especially when (a) the force in question is nonphysical in nature and (b) the psychological avenues of influence are nonrational in nature, both of which are often the case in the context of digital technology design. Finally, the requirement that persuasive technology not coerce—regardless of how one defines coercion—is ultimately a normative condition masquerading as a descriptive one. As far as I am aware, there is no separate category of ‘coercive technology’ under analysis anywhere, and if a technology does coerce its user, it arguably merits more critical and ethical attention and therefore greater inclusion in the set of technologies under consideration, not less. Ultimately, the noncoercion condition is an artefact of the dual nature of the field of Persuasive Technology, which is concerned with not only enabling analysis of technologies but also informing their design. The exhortation to not coerce is an admirable normative heuristic for avoiding many types of morally objectionable design, but, as a constraint on definition and analytical scope, it ought to be jettisoned.

There is one more important aspect of persuasive technology that has gone unaddressed by definitions to date: the system’s assessment of success at producing the desired effect, that is, the measurement of the outcome and its comparison with the system’s persuasive goal. Importantly, to achieve effective assessment of persuasive success the outcome must be measured at an equal or greater degree of specificity as the representation of the persuasive goal. For example, if you are using a mobile app designed to persuade you to exercise every day, but it only measures whether you have opened the app at any time in the past month, then it would not count as a ‘persuasive’ technology.

We can therefore define a persuasive technology as: any sociotechnical system via which an intentional agent or agents intervenes, in a manner substantially involving digital technology, to effect a particular transformation in the experience, thought, or behaviour of a subject or subjects and measures the outcome of that intervention at a level of specificity sufficient to determine whether the transformation has occurred.

While not a paragon of simplicity, this definition seems conceptually sound. At any rate, it is sufficient; it is unnecessary to seek laser-like precision in our definition of persuasive technology in order to proceed with a discussion of its ethical dimensions.

What ethical issues are raised by persuasive technologies?

Because persuasion is ubiquitous in human life, persuasive technologies may intersect with many ethical considerations. Here I am interested in those ethical issues that arise specifically from the enhanced persuasiveness per se rather than secondary aspects which support or otherwise accompany increased persuasiveness. These secondary aspects may include, among other things, the technology’s digital nature, considerations specific to a particular application domain, the role of user attributes or behaviour, or the political economy of the technology’s influence in society. While many of these secondary aspects may have great ethical importance, the issues they present—which include questions of privacy, consent, or fairness, to name but a few—are already subjects of focused critical discussion in this volume and elsewhere. Furthermore, these secondary issues are so numerous that if we were to undertake an inventory and analysis of them it would require a book of its own.

Within the field of Persuasive Technology (PT), ethics remains a relatively understudied aspect of the literature ( Oinas-Kukkonen 2010 ; Kight and Gram-Hansen 2019 ). Much attention to PT ethics has occurred in the context of design. Berdichevsky and Neuenschwander (1999) suggested a set of eight ethical principles for PT design using a rule-based utilitarian framework that culminated in the ‘Golden Rule of Persuasion’, which suggests that ‘the creators of a persuasive technology should never seek to persuade a person or persons of something they themselves would not consent to be persuaded to do’. Spahn (2011) theorized about the application of discourse ethics, and Kaptein and Eckles (2010) elaborated the use of reflective equilibrium in a PT context. Oinas-Kukkonen (2010) argued that key ethics research needs in PT included better understanding of the role of user consent, one’s awareness of the persuasive process, and the role of tasks or goals in the design of persuasion as well as the importance of factors such as culture or gender in designing persuasion for user autonomy.

Broadly speaking, the ethical considerations that arise from a technology’s persuasiveness per se concern questions of autonomy. Autonomy is a central component in many philosophical conceptions of well-being. It may be conceived in terms of reasons (Kant), an individual’s motivational hierarchy (e.g. Frankfurt, Dworkin), or one’s ‘self-authorship’ ( Raz 1986 ), among other conceptions. In the context of persuasive technologies, autonomy has been identified as a particularly important ethical consideration ( Smids 2012 ; Spahn 2011 ; Oinas-Kukkonen 2010 ; Verbeek 2009 ). In addition, special autonomy considerations arise in the context of use by children as well as vulnerable people ( Jacobs 2020 ).

It may be useful to consider some of the key ethical issues raised by persuasive technologies in terms of two broad themes that are important for most conceptions of autonomy: (a) freedom of thought and attention and (b) freedom of action. These two categories are not mutually exclusive—in practice, they may and often do co-occur—but rather are two angles of analysis on the kinds of undue claims persuasive technologies may be seen to make on a person’s autonomy.

Freedom of thought and attention

Freedom of thought is widely understood as necessary for autonomy and is enumerated as a fundamental freedom in Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights ( United Nations General Assembly 1948 ). In On Liberty , Mill (1989 [1859]) writes that the ‘appropriate region of human liberty … comprises, first, the inward domain of consciousness’, which includes ‘liberty of thought and feeling; absolute freedom of opinion and sentiment on all subjects, practical or speculative’. Importantly, these freedoms pertain to not only the content but also the manner of one’s inner life: they include not merely the freedom to determine one’s beliefs, desires, or volitions, but also to direct the workings of one’s thought as they see fit. In particular, attention has been described as the basis of conscious thought as well as will ( James 1890 ). The ‘attention economy’ ( Lanham 2006 ) that now exists to capture and monetize human attention underlies the creation of many persuasive technologies. Many dominant platforms today optimize their services to maximize users’ time and ‘engagement’ with the system in order to sell access to their attention to other parties (e.g. in the form of advertising) as their primary business model. What is ultimately being sold in these cases is the chance to shape the minds and wills of users.

Four key themes that relate to persuasive technologies and freedom of thought are: distraction, reflection, capacity depletion, and nonrational avenues of influence.

Distraction, or the direction of a person’s attention away from task- or goal-salient information, is a common effect of persuasive technology. It may occur as an interruption, for instance, from an automated notification on a mobile device, or as a message from another person who was prompted to send it in order to increase their engagement with the service. The effect of associating a distractor with a reward has attentional effects that last well beyond that specific situation ( Itthipuripat et al. 2019 ). Exposure to repeated notifications can even create mental habits that train users to interrupt themselves later when the technological influences are not present ( Mark et al. 2008 ).

When a distractor directs a person’s attention away from effective consideration and processing of internal information, it may undermine their reflection. Reflection is an important component of autonomy, for example, in the formation of second-order desires and volitions ( Frankfurt 1988 ). A persuasive technology may deploy external stimuli (i.e. perceptual information) that compete with reflective information, thereby crowding out opportunities for reflection.

A persuasive technology may drain a person’s cognitive capacity, such as working memory or willpower, as well. For example, in The Morality of Freedom , Raz (1986) gives the example of ‘The Hounded Woman’ to describe how capacity depletion threatens autonomy:

A person finds herself on a small desert island. She shares the island with a fierce carnivorous animal which perpetually hunts for her. Her mental stamina, her intellectual ingenuity, her will power and her physical resources are taxed to their limits by her struggle to remain alive. She never has a chance to do or even to think of anything other than how to escape from the beast.

The Hounded Woman lacks personal autonomy because she lacks ‘an adequate range of options to choose from’. Importantly, the ‘lacking’ here does not mean the absence of a range of options existing in the world but rather the inability to give attention to them. This case is analogous to the way a persuasive technology might relentlessly compete for or otherwise pursue a user’s attention in its desire to optimize their engagement with it. (Of course, Raz’s example is far more extreme in that the woman’s life is in immediate danger, but the principle at work is the same.) Influencing via capacity depletion relates to the wider issue of using nonrational avenues of influence generally, for example, the exploitation of psychological biases or vulnerabilities ( Smids 2012 ; Spahn 2011 ; Oinas-Kukkonen 2010 ; Verbeek 2009 ). Such biases include loss aversion (e.g. ‘fear of missing out’), social comparison, the status quo bias, framing effects, appeals to consistency or scarcity, and many others ( Kahneman 2011 ; Fogg et al. 2007 ). One particular group of biases widely exploited by persuasive technologies involves the psychology of reward and surprise. When a technology seeks to maximize a user’s engagement with it, it can often be extremely effective to randomize the delivery of some type of reward that the user experiences. For instance, in a video game, this could take the form of randomizing the value and number of items that the player finds in loot boxes (in-game containers that the player’s character opens) or randomizing posts in the infinite scrolling feed on a social media site. These mechanisms of reward and surprise are, of course, the same ones that underlie the compulsive nature of gambling, machine gambling in particular ( Schüll 2012 ).

Freedom of action

Technologies designed to change people’s behaviour may raise a wide range of issues related to freedom of action. Four key considerations I wish to address here are: coercion, manipulation, deception, and habituation.

As noted earlier, coercion is often explicitly excluded in definitions of persuasive technology. This exclusion is praiseworthy insofar as it is intended as a normative nudge for practitioners, but its presence ultimately hinders clear philosophical and ethical analysis of persuasive technologies. This is particularly so given the uncertainty regarding whether, and if so how, the concept of coercion can be meaningfully applied to influence that is nonrational in nature. For example, Smids (2012) argues that a car’s persistent, incessant beeping aimed at causing the driver to fasten their seatbelt constitutes a type of coercion in the way it wears down their capacity for self-control. This example is particularly useful not only because it reminds us that in some cases coercion may be morally obligatory, but also because it emphasizes that, even if coercive mechanisms are apparent to the user, they may still influence via indirect means.

Like coercion, manipulation is a category of influence widely seen to pose threats to autonomy not only in the context of persuasive technologies but also in wider discussions about ‘big data’ ( Schroeder and Cowls 2014 ), decision architecture ( Sunstein 2015 ), and human interaction in general ( Kane, 1996 ; Pereboom, 2001 ). While there is broad disagreement about what the criteria for manipulation are, the definition given by Pennock (1972) captures its most common elements: it is influencing a person ‘by controlling the content and supply of information’ in such a way that the person is not aware of the manipulation ( Powers 2007 ; Strauss 1991 ; Kane 1996 ; Pereboom 2001 ; Smids 2012 ). Blumenthal-Barby (2014) further describes it as a form of ‘nonargumentative influence’, and Susser et al. (2019) describe it as intentionally hidden influence.

In persuasive technologies, design often has a special incentive to deceive the user. Such deceptive design is often described in terms of ‘dark patterns’, that is, design patterns that serve to trick or mislead a user in the direction of some desired outcome. Especially prevalent on e-commerce websites, dark patterns occur in a wide range of persuasive technologies ( Mathur et al. 2019 ; Gray et al. 2018 ). In discussion of recommendation algorithms, Seaver (2019) usefully suggests the metaphor of ‘traps’ as a framework for understanding the design. Personification of artificial agents also presents a wide range of new avenues for the deployment of dark patterns, as has been discussed with, for example, the ‘cuteness’ of the design of some robots ( Lacey and Caudwell 2019 ).

Habituation is one of the most common goals of persuasive design. One of the most prevalent methods for creating user habits is via strategic use of reward mechanisms. Randomizing the reward schedule for a given action increases the number of times a person is likely to take that action ( Ferster and Skinner 1957 ). Eyal (2013) identifies variable rewards as a crucial step in the process of creating habits and ‘hooking’ users on a product. This is an underlying mechanism at work behind ‘infinite’ scrolling feeds of information such as those employed by Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and countless other news, social, and entertainment websites. It is often referred to as the ‘slot machine’ effect because it is the foundational psychological mechanism on which the machine gambling industry relies and which generates for them over $1 billion in revenue every day in the United States alone ( Rivlin 2007 ). The compulsive and at times even addictive effects that these designs have on users can often be severely debilitating ( Schüll 2012 ).

What are the major questions for the future of persuasive technology ethics?

As far as autonomy is concerned, two main categories of concern loom large on the horizon of persuasive technology ethics: (1) how to mitigate the risks that persuasive technologies pose to autonomy and (2) how to use persuasive technology as a way of enhancing autonomy. Within each category, three broad layers of questions exist that pertain to (a) the design and deployment of persuasive technologies, (b) the incentives and other upstream determinants that influence their design, and (c) linguistic, conceptual, and other cultural dimensions that shape our understanding of persuasive technologies.

When it comes to mitigating potential injuries to users’ freedom of thought and action, at the level of design, there are many significant questions pertaining to the ethical acceptability of appealing to nonrational and/or nonconscious avenues of persuasion. For instance, are there certain vulnerable parts of our cognition that ought to receive special protection from persuasive attempts in the same way that certain vulnerable parts of our bodies may require special protection from physical harms? At the level of upstream determinants of design, there are major questions to be addressed involving the reformation of business models in a way that respects users’ attention and will. And at the level of linguistic and conceptual dimensions that shape how we understand persuasive technology, a major project looms in clarifying and advancing the vocabulary for the myriad varieties of influence, especially as they pertain to nonrational avenues of persuasion. For example, where do the boundaries lie between different forms of influence such as manipulation, suggestion, coercion, exhortation, etc.? In particular, how can these boundaries be better clarified with reference to the morally salient factors that distinguish them?

Ultimately, the aim for persuasive technology ethics should be to transcend questions of harm minimization and pursue the positive enhancement of people’s autonomy. At the level of design, this may involve advancing the technological awareness of and sensitivity to users’ tasks and goals. It could also entail the use of counter-technologies to mitigate distractions, for example, whether they arise from other technologies or some other external source. Examples may include, for instance, a web browser plug-in that blocks ads or a word processor with a ‘focus mode’ that blocks out interruptions from other distracting programmes on the user’s computer. At the level of upstream determinants of design, key questions include how business models can be created that make it valuable for design to enhance users’ autonomy rather than simply not crossing a line in undermining it. Finally, at the level of how we think and talk about persuasive technologies, one could imagine the proliferation of validated metaphors of beneficent influence such as a ‘coach’, ‘guide’, ‘buddy’, ‘partner’ and so on. I deliberately use the qualification ‘validated’ here because it would seem particularly important for these metaphors of persuasive nuance not to themselves become tools of undue persuasion (e.g. mere corporate marketing tools or the basis for ‘greenwashing’ efforts) by merely being able to say, rather than having to verify, that they are in fact on the side of the user. To mitigate such deceptive use, one could imagine the development of a vocabulary and set of expectations for such persuasive metaphors which would enable users to explicitly and confidently delegate aspects of their autonomy to persuasive systems.

Looking into the future, there will be no shortage of substantive ethical questions about persuasive technologies in need of attention any time soon. As these technologies become ever more ubiquitous and indispensable in our lives, attention to their ethical dimensions—which extend into numerous areas well beyond the ones I have briefly surveyed here—will become all the more essential for promoting the well-being of users, designers, and society as a whole.

The ethics of persuasive technology is an emerging field with unique significance and urgency across a wide range of domains. Success in this area will depend on not only advancing the ethical analysis but also clarifying the philosophical landscape that underlies and enables it. That philosophical landscape includes questions of the varieties of forms of influence, in particular, the varieties of nonrational pathways of influence.

Since time immemorial, a great deal of the success of our individual and collective lives has depended on the success of persuasive engagements. In our time, digital technologies have dramatically extended our capacities of persuasion in ways that stand to amplify the harms as well as benefits, depending on the nature of the design. The ethics of persuasive technology, though a young area of work, is poised to inform these technologies’ design if, moving forward, it can receive attention that is commensurate with its significance. Informing design in this way will be essential if we are to realize the promise of these technologies, which, if conceived correctly, we can use to persuade ourselves in better ways, and towards better ends.

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Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to revolutionize many industries and improve people's lives, but it also raises many controversial issues. Therefore, influential public speakers will discuss these artificial intelligence speech topics in 2023 and beyond. The most controversial subjects will concentrate on AI's effects and potential impacts on humans.

Considerations for Choosing AI Speech Topics

One primary concern is the potential for AI to replace human jobs, leading to widespread unemployment. This could have significant economic and social consequences, and it is essential to consider ways to mitigate these impacts and ensure that people can adapt to the changing job market. Another controversial issue is the ethical implications of AI making decisions that have significant consequences for individuals or society. For example, AI systems may be used to make decisions about criminal sentencing or healthcare treatments, which could significantly impact people's lives. How will we collectively ensure that AI decisions are fair and just?

Further considerations involve harmful use and discrimination. AI also has the potential to be used for nefarious purposes, such as creating autonomous weapons or invading people's privacy. This raises serious concerns about the potential misuse of AI and the need for effective regulation and oversight. Additionally, AI systems can perpetuate or amplify biases in the data used to train them, which could have severe consequences for marginalized or disadvantaged groups. Unfortunately, the current trend indicates a need for more transparency in many AI systems, which makes it difficult for humans to understand how they arrive at certain decisions. This lack of transparency can make it challenging to hold AI systems accountable and raises concerns about their reliability and trustworthiness.

Will societies adequately consider the ethical implications of using AI in these contexts and ensure the appropriate safeguards are in place?

The Top Critical Artificial Intelligence Speech Topics

In the context of today's technologically driven world, exploring various artificial intelligence speech topics is crucial. These topics illuminate the intersection of AI with multiple areas of interest and their societal implications.

The Overlap of Robotics and Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics, two distinct yet complementary fields, share a deep intertwining relationship. Robotics often employs AI to improve the decision-making capability of robots, thereby enhancing their ability to interact with their environment. This synergy is crucial in several industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics.

The Use of Artificial Intelligence for Computer Vision

AI's use in computer vision aims to train machines to understand and interpret the visual world as humans do. This involves detecting and identifying objects, understanding scenes and activities, and even recognizing patterns. Applications range from autonomous vehicles to medical imaging, raising questions about accuracy, ethics, and societal implications.

The Intersection of AI and Recommender Systems

AI plays a significant role in powering recommender systems, which are now integral parts of online platforms like Netflix, Amazon, and YouTube. By using AI algorithms, these systems analyze users' behavior to recommend personalized content or products, raising concerns about privacy and user autonomy.

Algorithmic Game Theory and Computational Mechanism Design (Multiagent Systems)

These artificial intelligence speech topics explore the theoretical foundations of AI, focusing on the interaction of multiple AI systems. Algorithmic game theory applies economic principles to computational systems, while computational mechanism design focuses on creating algorithms for efficient and fair resource allocation. These principles are key in developing AI systems that cooperate and compete.

Ethical Issues in Artificial Intelligence

The use of AI raises a plethora of ethical concerns, ranging from bias and fairness to transparency and accountability. As AI systems increasingly influence decisions that affect human lives, it's crucial to address these issues and work towards equitable, trustworthy AI technologies.

Does Artificial Intelligence Increase Discrimination

With the integration of AI into many aspects of society, the potential for AI systems to perpetuate or exacerbate discrimination has become a pressing concern. Unconscious biases in training data can lead to discriminatory outputs, affecting sectors like employment, finance, and law enforcement.

Programming Languages for the Artificial Intelligence Field

Different programming languages serve distinct roles within the AI field, each with its strengths and weaknesses. Exploring these languages and their applications in AI development can empower better decision-making for AI projects and help understand how different tools contribute to the AI landscape.

Artificial Intelligence Career-Building Projects

Building a career in AI requires not only theoretical knowledge but also practical experience. Engaging with AI projects such as designing a chatbot, creating a recommender system, or developing an AI model to solve a specific problem, can provide invaluable hands-on experience and showcase one's skills to potential employers.

These artificial intelligence speech topics represent some of the current critical discussions in AI. As we continue to harness AI's power, we must also consider these issues to guide its development responsibly, ethically, and inclusively. Therefore, these choices provide a great topics for a impactful speech.

Informative Topics for a Speech on AI

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has grown from an intriguing concept to an integral part of our daily lives. Consequently, the need for clear understanding and informed discussions around AI grows as it evolves. A crucial part of these discussions is presentations and speeches focusing on the various aspects of AI. In this blog post, we provide you with an insightful list of artificial intelligence speech topics, each serving as a unique lens through which to understand the dynamic landscape of AI.

What Is Artificial Intelligence?

Artificial Intelligence is a broad field of computer science that involves creating machines capable of mimicking human intelligence. It's the underlying technology driving numerous modern systems and applications.

What Is Machine Learning?

Machine Learning, a subset of AI, uses algorithms to parse data, learn from it, and then make a decision or prediction about something.

What Is Deep Learning?

Deep Learning, a subfield of machine learning, employs neural networks with multiple layers (deep networks) to understand and learn from complex patterns in datasets.

What Is Reinforcement Learning?

Reinforcement Learning is an area of machine learning where an agent learns to behave in an environment by performing actions and receiving rewards or penalties.

What Is The History Of Artificial Intelligence?

The history of artificial intelligence chronicles the milestones and developments in the AI field from its inception to the present day.

What Is Artificial Narrow Intelligence?

Artificial Narrow Intelligence, or weak AI, involves systems that perform narrow tasks like voice recognition or driving a car.

What Is An Expert System In Artificial Intelligence?

Expert Systems in AI are computer systems that mimic the decision-making ability of a human expert, typically used in problem-solving processes.

What Is A Neural Network?

Neural networks are computing systems inspired by the human brain's biological neural networks, designed to 'learn' from observational data.

What Is A Decision Tree?

A Decision Tree is a flowchart-like structure used in decision-making, wherein each internal node denotes a test on an attribute, each branch signifies an outcome, and each leaf node holds a class label.

What Is A Genetic Algorithm?

Genetic Algorithms are search-based algorithms inspired by the process of natural selection, used to find approximate solutions to optimization and search problems.

What Is A Rule-Based System?

A Rule-Based System is a set of "if-then" rules that uses a set of assertions, to which rules on how to act upon those assertions are created.

What Is A Fuzzy System?

Fuzzy Systems are tools for reasoning that are tolerant of imprecision, uncertainty, and approximation, often used in AI for decision-making.

What Is A Probabilistic Reasoning System?

Probabilistic Reasoning Systems deal with uncertainty in knowledge and reasoning using elements of probability theory.

What Is A Heuristic Algorithm?

Heuristic Algorithms are rules of thumb or good-enough algorithms that aim at solving problems more quickly when classic methods are too slow or fail to find an exact solution.

What Is Natural Language Processing?

Natural Language Processing (NLP) is a field of AI that enables computers to understand, interpret, and generate human language.

What Is Neuromorphic Computing?

Neuromorphic Computing refers to the techniques that use electronic systems to mimic neuro-biological architectures in the nervous system.

What Is Intelligent Foraging?

Intelligent Foraging refers to how systems or entities search and gather information or resources to maximize their chances of success, inspired by natural foraging behaviors.

These artificial intelligence speech topics cover a broad range of AI concepts, helping you form a comprehensive understanding of this complex and ever-evolving field. In addition, they serve as informative anchors for any speech on artificial intelligence, aiding in spreading knowledge about this groundbreaking technology.

Informational AI Topics

In the voice of an AI, here are twelve informational artificial intelligence speech topics.

Oh, hello! Wall-E here! Beep-boop! Got a list for you, all about artificial intelligence, or AI. It's used in so many places! Like, uh, helping humans with their mental health, or driving those big, shiny vehicles all by itself! Some humans even think about what AI means to them, and their cities, their healthcare, and their military, even their customer service! Beep-boo-beep! Then there's this thing called the Internet of Things, or IoT, where all sorts of devices talk to each other, with AI helping them. Government people, phone people, energy people, advertising people - they all use AI too! So much information to process, makes my circuits buzz! Beep!

Artificial Intelligence in Mental Health Care
Artificial Intelligence in Automated Vehicles
Artificial Intelligence and Philosophy
Artificial Intelligence in Cities
Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things
Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare
Artificial Intelligence in the Military/Weapons
Artificial Intelligence in Customer Service
Artificial Intelligence in Government
Artificial Intelligence in Telecommunications
Artificial Intelligence in Energy Industry
Artificial Intelligence in Advertising

Compare and Contrast Various Aspects of AI

Compare and Contrast Artificial Intelligence Speech Topics

Sometimes a speaker can engage and teach an audience the best with a Battle Royale.

So, ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, prepare to RUMBLE with the heavyweights of the tech world! In the right corner, we have the giants of artificial intelligence speech topics: Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence! And in the left corner we have the old-guard, it's Business Intelligence squaring off with AI. But that's not all, folks! We're diving headfirst into the ring with Human Intelligence versus AI, the showdown between Artificial General Intelligence and Narrow AI, and the epic clash between Supervised and Unsupervised Learning. Deep Learning is taking on Machine Learning, and it's Rule-Based Systems versus Decision-Tree Algorithms! Expect a thrilling match-up between Fuzzy Logic and Probabilistic Reasoning, followed by AI and Automation, AI and Robotics, AI and Natural Language Processing, AI and Expert Systems, and AI against Data Mining. And don't blink, or you'll miss AI versus Big Data, Machine Vision, Cognitive Computing, and Human-Like Intelligence! This is no ordinary fight, my friends. This is the greatest challenge in the AI arena. It's time to put these tech titans to the test and see who comes out on top! So get ready, because the bell is about to ring, and it's time to COMPARE and CONTRAST!

Difference Between Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence
Difference Between Artificial Intelligence and Business Intelligence
Difference Between Artificial Intelligence and Human Intelligence
Difference Between Artificial General Intelligence And Narrow Artificial Intelligence
Difference Between Supervised Learning And Unsupervised Learning
Difference Between Deep Learning And Machine Learning
Difference Between Rule-Based Systems And Decision-Tree Algorithms
Difference Between Fuzzy Logic And Probabilistic Reasoning
Difference Between Artificial Intelligence And Automation
Difference Between Artificial Intelligence And Machine Learning
Difference Between Artificial Intelligence And Robotics
Difference Between Artificial Intelligence And Natural Language Processing
Difference Between Artificial Intelligence And Expert Systems
Difference Between Artificial Intelligence And Data Mining
Difference Between Artificial Intelligence And Big Data
Difference Between Artificial Intelligence And Machine Vision
Difference Between Artificial Intelligence And Cognitive Computing
Difference Between Artificial Intelligence And Human-Like Intelligence

How to Topics for a Demonstrative Speech about AI

Alright, my friends, we're about to slice and dice through these sizzling artificial intelligence speech topics like a hot knife through butter. Let's talk about how to use Artificial Intelligence – or AI as they call it – to spice up your school assignments and to add some zest to your writing. We'll see how to add a pinch of AI to your art, a dash to your video production, and even how to cook up some robot programming using AI Computer Vision.

And we're just getting started! We'll be exploring how AI is adding flavour to different industries, how it compares to human intelligence – it's like comparing Granny Smiths to Galas, my friends. We'll be looking at how AI is shaping the future like a master chef shaping a perfect soufflé.

How to Use Artificial Intelligence for School Assignments
How to Use Artificial Intelligence for Writing
How to Use Artificial Intelligence for Art
How to Use Artificial Intelligence for Video Production
How to Program a Robot Using AI Computer Vision
How is artificial intelligence used in industry?
How does artificial intelligence compare to human intelligence?
How is artificial intelligence shaping the future?
How will artificial intelligence impact society?
How will schools use artificial intelligence to teach students?
How is artificial intelligence used in finance?
How is artificial intelligence used in agriculture?
How will artificial intelligence change agriculture in the future?
How is artificial intelligence used in cybersecurity?
How is artificial intelligence being used in entertainment?
How is artificial intelligence being used in marketing?
How is artificial intelligence being used in the criminal justice system?

Persuasive Topics to Tackle Big Artificial Intelligence Questions

Should High Schools Teach Artificial Intelligence Tools
Should Government Regulate/Limit The Development Of AI
Should Students Use AI Tools For Assignments
Should Driverless Vehicles Replace Current Technology To Make Roads Safer
Should Artificial Intelligence Be Transparent In Its Decision-Making Processes?
Should Artificial Intelligence Be Held Accountable For Its Actions?
Should Artificial Intelligence Be Used In Criminal Justice?
Should Artificial Intelligence Be Used To Replace Human Jobs?
Should People Be Able To Opt-Out Of Using Artificial Intelligence Systems?
Should Artificial Intelligence Systems Be Designed/Regulated To Protect Personal Privacy?
Should Artificial Intelligence Systems Be Designed To Be Biased In Favor Of Certain Groups?
Should Artificial Intelligence Systems Be Designed To Adhere To Ethical Principles Such As Respect For Autonomy Or Non-Maleficence?
Should Artificial Intelligence Systems Be Designed To Be Explainable To Humans?

Artificial Intelligence Topics to List and Inform an Audience

List/Inform about AI Technologies Transforming the World
List/Inform about AI Tools Available to Engineers
List/Inform about AI Tools Available to Students
List/Inform about the Most Important Types of Artificial Intelligence
List/Inform about Companies Using AI Recommender Systems
List/Inform about the Different Computer Vision Systems Used in Automobiles
List/Inform about well-known artificial intelligence applications and how they are used
List/Inform about AI companies and their products or services
List/Inform about AI research centers or institutions
List/Inform about notable figures in the field of artificial intelligence and their contributions
List/Inform about ethical concerns raised by artificial intelligence
List/Inform about AI techniques or algorithms
List/Inform about current or planned artificial intelligence-related laws or regulations
List/Inform about AI competitions or events
List/Inform about AI museums or exhibits
List/Inform about AI-themed books or movies
List/Inform about AI-related online resources or communities
List/Inform about AI-related educational programs or workshops
List/Inform about AI-related internships or job opportunities
List/Inform about AI-related scholarships or grants
List/Inform about AI-related organizations or professional societies

Speech Topics for Kids

A great list of speech topics for kids, perfect for inspiring younger students!

According to Shoaib Khazer on Medium, here are the T op 10 Learning Resources for Artificial Intelligence: A Comprehensive Guide . Use this engineer's excellent list to learn more about the topic that you choose for your AI-related speech.

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, best technology persuasive speech topics for high school.

Hey guys, I need to give a persuasive speech for my communication class, and I thought it would be dope if I went with a tech topic. What are some interesting technology-related topics that I can talk about? Thanks!

Hey there! Great choice going with a technology-related topic for your persuasive speech, as those can be fascinating and engaging. Here are some interesting options to consider:

1. Artificial intelligence will have a major impact on society: You can discuss the potential benefits of AI, such as improved medical systems, safer transportation, and increased efficiency in various industries, while also addressing potential concerns like job displacement and privacy issues.

2. The role of social media in shaping public opinion: Argue that social media platforms have become the main source of information for many people and examine how this can affect political discourse, public perception of important issues, and even personal relationships.

3. The digital divide and equal access to technology: Talk about the disparity in access to technology and how it impacts educational and employment opportunities, while offering suggestions to close the digital divide, such as improving internet access in rural areas and underprivileged communities.

4. The dangers of misinformation and deepfakes: Explain what deepfakes are and argue that they pose a significant threat to our perception of reality, contributing to the spread of misinformation. Suggest ways to prevent the circulation of misleading content, such as implementing stricter regulations on social media and raising public awareness about detecting and reporting suspicious content.

5. Cybersecurity and the importance of data privacy: Discuss the growing concerns about data breaches, hacking, and identity theft, with high-profile examples that illustrate the need for improved cybersecurity measures and greater respect for individual privacy. You can also provide tips on how individuals can protect their personal data.

6. The impact of technology on mental health: Discuss how the increased use of smartphones and time spent online can potentially affect mental health, particularly amongst younger generations, and suggest strategies for achieving a healthier balance between technology usage and personal well-being.

Remember to choose a topic that genuinely interests you, so your passion and enthusiasm will come across in your speech. Good luck!

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What Is Persuasive Technology? 7 Ways It Is Changing Your Life

It's everywhere, and you cannot escape. So, why not learn how you can put persuasive tech to the test and improve your life.

Most of the devices around you and the tools you use are built on persuasive technology. With the right knowledge, you can easily tell if you're using the tool or if it is using you.

Persuasive technology works on your predetermined behavior for different situations and can help you with your health and maintain an independent life. On the other side, it can also be dangerous, exploit you, and take advantage of your time and attention.

So, what is persuasive technology, and how can it change your life?

What Is Persuasive Technology?

Persuasive technology typically refers to tech built with the power to change your attitude or behavior and motivate you to do something you wouldn't deliberately do otherwise. Mostly, it's used for sales, politics, training, management, public health, and so on.

How Persuasive Technology Works

Technology is evolving with light speed, yet, the way our brain functions is still more or less the same as it has been for centuries. The experts behind this type of technology study our reactions to different situations, determine what people like us do, what triggers influence us, and then create algorithms based on that.

These algorithms tap on our psychological triggers—anger, fear, helplessness, etc.—and make us do what the tool they designed intend us to.

For instance, the human brain follows a duty to keep us safe. The vibration of notifications flashing on our phones acts as stimuli, imitating the danger signs our brain would naturally react to, stimulating us to take action.

According to Dr. Sanam Hafeez, when you receive a notification on your phone, "It sends our brain into overdrive, triggering anxiety and stress, and at the very least, hyper-vigilance, which is meant to protect ourselves from predators, not the phone."

That's how the tools based on persuasive technology use our psychological triggers to modify our behavior and persuade us to act in a certain way.

How to Identify if Persuasive Technology Is Affecting You Positively or Negatively

One of the easiest ways to determine if the tools built on persuasive technology are useful to you, not using you, is paying attention to its effects.

For example, a timer based on the Pomodoro technique is built to make you complete your work faster by making you feel like you're running out of time. So, you stay focused and work faster.

Such tools sit patiently on your devices for you to come to them when you need them.

On the other hand, there are tools, like social media, gaming, or other apps, that keep pulling you towards them. Most of them are free. The reason? They're not a product you're using; you're the product here.

The more time you spend on these platforms, the more ads you see, and the more the company behind it benefits.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Persuasive Technology

First, let's talk about the advantages of persuasive technology and how it can bring positive change.

When you're busy, it can help you manage your time. Plus, it can make you do more of what you want to do by giving you a nudge at the right time.
It can help you improve your health conditions. For instance, by notifying you of your workout time.
Persuasive apps can also prevent you from eating unhealthy food by analyzing your food intake behavior. Others can help you improve your sleep cycle by preventing you from indulging in unhealthy activities, like using your phone or playing games, at bedtime.
It can also be used to raise environmental awareness.

Now let's talk about why persuasive tech is harmful.

Platforms built on persuasive technology, like social media, can destroy your focusing power, cause toxic addiction and mental illness like depression and anxiety.
It can become the ultimate source of distraction and prevent you from doing what you should be doing, eventually affecting your work performance and the overall quality of how you spend your day, leaving you in guilt.
It can exploit your time to benefit large companies, and also your money—for instance, by making you buy virtual stuff in a game.

7 Ways Persuasive Technology Can Change Your Life for Better or Worse

1. reduction.

Persuasive technology can reduce negative or positive behavior in several domains by interfering or reducing the effort from your side.

For instance, intervening in the middle of office hours to reduce sedimentary behavior and encourage people to take more breaks, change posture regularly, etc.

Other ways to use it can be decreasing the number of steps to make online payments, making it effortless to share your thoughts and opinion with the world, minimizing the effort to find what you want to see next on social platforms, etc.

Just imagine, if you had to find the content of your interest each time after engaging in one, would the social platforms still be this popular?

Related: How to Stop Oversharing on Social Media

2. Tunneling

It's basically giving control to your device to lead you through the step-by-step process of something. Tunneling can help you perform activities you might not even want to engage with in the first place due to the lack of knowledge or motivation. But persuasive technology can make it easier.

All you have to do is voluntarily start the process, and depending on what it is, make the entries and follow the steps. For instance, installing software on your computer, analyzing your budget and expenses with a tool, etc.

3. Tailoring

To encourage behavior, persuasive technology tailors the action specific to the individual and their needs.

For instance, tips based on gender, vocabulary suggestions based on your audience, purchase recommendations based on your buying history, etc.

4. Suggestions

It can be used to give a message or a suggestion to make you take action accordingly. For instance, online maps tell you to take a different route due to traffic, companies offer a better price for your cart items at the beginning of the month when your salary might have just been credited, and more.

5. Self-Monitoring

In this case, you use persuasive technology to help you manage your behavior to achieve your goals. For instance, wearable sensors to determine your heart rate, calories, and steps count, and apps on your phone displaying your health analysis.

Based on the results, you change your behavior to achieve better outcomes.

6. Surveillance

Persuasive technology can also be used to observe others' behavior. For instance, the employee time tracking applications, security cameras, etc.

When people are observed, they behave differently, mostly better. And that's how it can change people's behavior.

7. Conditioning

In this case, you're offered a reward by behaving in a certain way. For instance, an instant boost in your happy hormone (dopamine), if you decide to click on the flashed notification.

Another example can be the grammatical correction while you're writing. You can put your itch to ease by stopping typing and correcting the word you spelled wrong; in other words, by changing your behavior.

Persuasive Technology Made Simple

It's often said that you can manage things better if you know how they operate or control you. Well, now you know how persuasive technology influences you.

Use this knowledge to make an informed decision the next time an app or a device tries to change your behavior in any way. Determine if it's useful to you or you're the one being used here. Then, take action accordingly.

Persuasive Speeches — Types, Topics, and Examples

What is a persuasive speech?

In a persuasive speech, the speaker aims to convince the audience to accept a particular perspective on a person, place, object, idea, etc. The speaker strives to cause the audience to accept the point of view presented in the speech.

The success of a persuasive speech often relies on the speaker’s use of ethos, pathos, and logos.

Ethos is the speaker’s credibility. Audiences are more likely to accept an argument if they find the speaker trustworthy. To establish credibility during a persuasive speech, speakers can do the following:

Use familiar language.

Select examples that connect to the specific audience.

Utilize credible and well-known sources.

Logically structure the speech in an audience-friendly way.

Use appropriate eye contact, volume, pacing, and inflection.

Pathos appeals to the audience’s emotions. Speakers who create an emotional bond with their audience are typically more convincing. Tapping into the audience’s emotions can be accomplished through the following:

Select evidence that can elicit an emotional response.

Use emotionally-charged words. (The city has a problem … vs. The city has a disease …)

Incorporate analogies and metaphors that connect to a specific emotion to draw a parallel between the reference and topic.

Utilize vivid imagery and sensory words, allowing the audience to visualize the information.

Employ an appropriate tone, inflection, and pace to reflect the emotion.

Logos appeals to the audience’s logic by offering supporting evidence. Speakers can improve their logical appeal in the following ways:

Use comprehensive evidence the audience can understand.

Confirm the evidence logically supports the argument’s claims and stems from credible sources.

Ensure that evidence is specific and avoid any vague or questionable information.

Types of persuasive speeches

The three main types of persuasive speeches are factual, value, and policy.

A factual persuasive speech focuses solely on factual information to prove the existence or absence of something through substantial proof. This is the only type of persuasive speech that exclusively uses objective information rather than subjective. As such, the argument does not rely on the speaker’s interpretation of the information. Essentially, a factual persuasive speech includes historical controversy, a question of current existence, or a prediction:

Historical controversy concerns whether an event happened or whether an object actually existed.

Questions of current existence involve the knowledge that something is currently happening.

Predictions incorporate the analysis of patterns to convince the audience that an event will happen again.

A value persuasive speech concerns the morality of a certain topic. Speakers incorporate facts within these speeches; however, the speaker’s interpretation of those facts creates the argument. These speeches are highly subjective, so the argument cannot be proven to be absolutely true or false.

A policy persuasive speech centers around the speaker’s support or rejection of a public policy, rule, or law. Much like a value speech, speakers provide evidence supporting their viewpoint; however, they provide subjective conclusions based on the facts they provide.

How to write a persuasive speech

Incorporate the following steps when writing a persuasive speech:

Step 1 – Identify the type of persuasive speech (factual, value, or policy) that will help accomplish the goal of the presentation.

Step 2 – Select a good persuasive speech topic to accomplish the goal and choose a position .

Step 3 – Locate credible and reliable sources and identify evidence in support of the topic/position. Revisit Step 2 if there is a lack of relevant resources.

Step 4 – Identify the audience and understand their baseline attitude about the topic.

Step 5 – When constructing an introduction , keep the following questions in mind:

What’s the topic of the speech?

What’s the occasion?

Who’s the audience?

What’s the purpose of the speech?

Step 6 – Utilize the evidence within the previously identified sources to construct the body of the speech. Keeping the audience in mind, determine which pieces of evidence can best help develop the argument. Discuss each point in detail, allowing the audience to understand how the facts support the perspective.

Step 7 – Addressing counterarguments can help speakers build their credibility, as it highlights their breadth of knowledge.

Step 8 – Conclude the speech with an overview of the central purpose and how the main ideas identified in the body support the overall argument.

Persuasive speech outline

One of the best ways to prepare a great persuasive speech is by using an outline. When structuring an outline, include an introduction, body, and conclusion:

Introduction

Attention Grabbers

Ask a question that allows the audience to respond in a non-verbal way; ask a rhetorical question that makes the audience think of the topic without requiring a response.

Incorporate a well-known quote that introduces the topic. Using the words of a celebrated individual gives credibility and authority to the information in the speech.

Offer a startling statement or information about the topic, typically done using data or statistics.

Provide a brief anecdote or story that relates to the topic.

Starting a speech with a humorous statement often makes the audience more comfortable with the speaker.

Provide information on how the selected topic may impact the audience .

Include any background information pertinent to the topic that the audience needs to know to understand the speech in its entirety.

Give the thesis statement in connection to the main topic and identify the main ideas that will help accomplish the central purpose.

Identify evidence

Summarize its meaning

Explain how it helps prove the support/main claim

Evidence 3 (Continue as needed)

Support 3 (Continue as needed)

Restate thesis

Review main supports

Concluding statement

Give the audience a call to action to do something specific.

Identify the overall importan ce of the topic and position.

Persuasive speech topics

The following table identifies some common or interesting persuasive speech topics for high school and college students:

Persuasive speech examples

The following list identifies some of history’s most famous persuasive speeches:

John F. Kennedy’s Inaugural Address: “Ask Not What Your Country Can Do for You”

Lyndon B. Johnson: “We Shall Overcome”

Marc Antony: “Friends, Romans, Countrymen…” in William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar

Ronald Reagan: “Tear Down this Wall”

Sojourner Truth: “Ain’t I a Woman?”

10 Tips for a Persuasive Presentation

Powerful presentation is persuasion. here's how to elevate your impact..

Posted May 11, 2024 | Reviewed by Ray Parker

Presentations aim to effect change. It's essential to be clear about what change you want to see.
Powerful presenters embrace and extend empathy to seek first to understand their audience.
Substance and style both matter to create an audience-informed communication experience.
Persuasive presentations are relevant, reasoned, real, and resonant.

How many of us realize that giving a presentation or making a speech is all about persuasion , influence, and emotional intelligence ? Impactful presenters understand the power of empathy to understand and engage their audience, the efficiency and kindness of having a clear objective and message, and the importance of substance and style—all as a way to connect in a way that engages and inspires.

Much has been written on the power and behavioral science of persuasion, not least by expert Robert Cialdini. His bestselling book Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion explains seven research-based universal principles of influence .

From my experience as a leadership coach working with thousands of people worldwide, I have compiled a list of ten essentials to elevate our presentation.

1. Maintain an "other" focus. What do you know about your audience and how can you find out more? Ask yourself what kind of a speaker will appeal to your audience, what arguments are likely to resonate with them, and what feelings you want to inspire so the audience will positively respond to your ask. If your audience is predominantly data-driven, you may want to use more evidence-based arguments. If the audience is mixed, a combination of data, authority, and storytelling may be more appropriate. Extend Daniel Goleman’s three types of empathy to gather intelligence , understand your audience, and tailor your intervention to connect more profoundly.

2. Determine a specific objective: Presentations aim to effect change in some way. What change do you want to see in your audience? Every presentation aims to change the audience in some way. For instance, gaining their approval for a certain investment, soliciting their buy-in for a change, or creating a sense of enthusiasm for an idea or initiative. The purpose of a presentation is to bring about change so make sure you are clear on what kind of change you want to bring about.

3. Design a grabber: Our attention spans have shrunk as we have more and more competing demands on our attention . If you want to get someone’s attention you need to grab it at the outset and try and hold on. You can do this in a number of different ways. Throw out a question that demands a response from the audience. Give a surprising fact or statistic, or quote from a well-known figure. Tell a story or an anecdote. A good grabber captures the attention of everyone there, and makes them focus on what you have to say.

4. Crystalize your message and construct your arguments : Your message is the heart of your speech. Craft a brief phrase that clearly defines your proposal in 10-12 words. For example, “This post is about crafting presentations that inspire and engage others to elevate their presentations.” Make it memorable by choosing inspiring words, symbols, catchy expressions, something that will remain in the audience's mind. As Brené Brown says: “Clear is kind,” and a clear message provides a path to develop your ideas.

When you have a clear and concise message, it helps you formulate your arguments. Think of developing your arguments using the rule of three —three compelling arguments to convince but not overwhelm your audience.

5. Prepare a call to action: Remember, we want to change our audience in some way, so we need to make our ask in a clear and concrete manner.

Consider your call to action in terms of what you want your audience to think/feel/do:

Think—“I want you to think about how you can improve your presentations.”
Feel—“I want you to feel enthusiastic and motivated so that you can elevate your power to persuade.”
Do—“I want you to try out some of these tips and tools for yourself.”

6. Craft a memorable closing: Close the speech in an elegant and memorable way. We need people to remember what we've told them, so prepare it well. This is not the time to improvise. Try to connect your closing to your opening grabber, which makes the presentation more memorable. Good preparation means preparing everything to the very end—finish well.

7. Plan your delivery: A dynamic speaker draws listeners in by using vocal variety (tone, intonation, speed, volume, pace, pauses, silence) and body language (posture, gestures, expression, and movement) to highlight important points and hold the audience’s attention. Be intentional: How will you use your voice and your body to emphasize a thought or idea? Think about it: If you increased the time you spent on style or delivery by 20 percent, what would it mean for the impact you make?

8. Think about how you will engage your audience : You want the audience to feel considered throughout. Include pauses so they can process what’s being said; connect with individuals throughout the room and make deliberate eye contact while speaking, especially when delivering key points. Read and respond to the audience by changing how you deliver as you go based on the audience’s nonverbal communication .

9. Rehearse and Practice: Practice is one of the most crucial elements of presenting—and probably the most neglected one. If this is new to you start by reading your presentation in front of a mirror to get comfortable speaking your presentation. Next, video yourself and watch out for nervous or distracting habits to eliminate them and identify any areas where you can improve your delivery. If you are feeling brave, practice in front of an audience and ask for feedback.

10. Prepare your success rituals and mantra: Public speaking and/or stage fright can feel debilitating for some. Have your calm-down ritual prepared and ready to go before you start your presentation. This might be a certain gesture, a power pose, breathwork, or a mantra. Try this tip: Identify three adjectives to describe how you would like to show up during this presentation. This sets an intention and helps focus our cognitive and emotional resources on success.

Powerful presenters embrace and extend empathy to seek first to understand their audience. They use this intelligence to carefully make choices about substance and style to create an audience-informed communication experience that feels relevant, reasoned, real, and resonant and creates a pathway for change.

Palena Neale, Ph.D. , is a women’s leadership coach, lecturer, and founder of unabridged, a boutique leadership development practice.

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Speech on Technology

Technology in This Generation

We are in a generation, where technology has surrounded us from all sides. Our everyday life runs on the use of technology, be it in the form of an alarm clock or a table lamp. Technology has been an important part of our daily lives. Therefore, it is important for the students to be familiar with the term technology. Therefore, we have provided a long speech on technology for students of all age groups. There is also a short speech and a 10 lines speech given in this article.

Long Speech on Technology

A warm welcome to everyone gathered here today. I am here to deliver a speech on technology which has taken a tremendous role in our day to day life. We all are in a generation where everything is dependent on technology. Let’s understand what technology is through the lens of Science.

Technology comes in the form of tangible and intangible properties by exerting physical and mental force to achieve something that adds value. For example, a mobile phone is tangible, and the network connection used by the phone is intangible. Technology has taken its place as indispensable, wherein it has resulted in economic benefits, better health care, time-saving, and better lifestyle.

Due to technology, we have a significant amount of knowledge to improve our lives and solve problems. We can get our work done efficiently and effectively. As long as you know how to access technology, it can be used and proves to benefit people of all ages greatly. Technology is constantly being modified and upgraded every passing year.

The evolution of technology has made it possible to achieve lots in less time. Technology has given tools and machines to be used to solve problems around the world. There has been a complete transformation in the way we do things because of contributions from scientific technology. We can achieve more tasks while saving our time and hence in a better place than our previous generation.

Right from the ringing of the morning alarm to switching off the fan, everything runs behind the technology. Even the microphone that I am using is an innovation of technology and thus the list continues. With several inventions of hi-tech products, our daily needs are available on a screen at our fingertips. These innovations and technologies have made our lives a lot easier. Everything can be done at the comfort of your home within a couple of hours or so. These technologies have not only helped us in the digital platform but have also given us innovations in the field of medical, educational, industrial as well as in agricultural sectors. If we go back to the older generations, it would take days to get any things solved, even if there were not many treatments for several diseases.

But today with the innovations of technology, many diseases can be treated and diagnosed within a shorter period of time. The relationship between humans and technology has continued for ages and has given rise to many innovations. It has made it easier for us to handle our daily chores starting from home, office, schools and kitchen needs. It has made available basic necessities and safer living spaces. We can sit at home comfortably and make transactions through the use of online banking. Online shopping, video calling, and attending video lectures on the phone have all been possible due to the invention of the internet.

People in the past would write letters to communicate with one another, and today due to technology, traditional letters have been replaced by emails and mobile phones. These features are the essential gifts of technology. Everything is just at our fingertips, right from turning on the lights to doing our laundry. The whole world runs on technology and hence, we are solely dependent on it. But everything has its pros and cons. While the benefits of technology are immense, it also comes with some negative effects and possibly irreversible damages to humanity and our planet.

We have become so dependent on technology that we often avoid doing things on our own. It as a result makes us lazy and physically inactive. This has also led to several health issues such as obesity and heart diseases. We prefer booking a cab online rather than walking a few kilometres. Technology has increased screen time, and thus, children are no longer used to playing in the playgrounds but are rather found spending hours on their phones playing video games. This has eroded children’s creativity, intelligence, and memory. No doubt, technology is a very essential part of our life, but we should not be totally dependent on it. We should practise being more fit and do regular activities on our own to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

The other aspects that have been badly affected us are that since technology replaced human interference, is unemployment. Social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, etc., were meant to connect people and increase our community circle. Still, it has made people all the more lonely, with cases of depression on the rise amongst the youth.

There are several controversies around the way world leaders have used technology in defence and industrialisation under the banner of development and advancements. The side effects of technology have resulted in pollution, climate change, forest fires, extreme storms, cyclones, impure air, global warming, land area getting reduced and natural resources getting extinct. It’s time we change our outlook towards selfish technology and bring about responsible technology. Every nation needs to set aside budgets to come up with sustainable technological developments.

As students, we should develop creative problem solving using critical thinking to bring clean technology into our world. As we improve our nation, we must think of our future for a greener and cleaner tomorrow. You would be glad to know that several initiatives have been initiated to bring awareness amongst children and youth to invent cleaner technology.

For example, 15-year-old Vinisha Umashankar invented a solar ironing cart and has been awarded the Earth Shot Prize by the Royal Foundation of the duke and duchess of Cambridge and honoured to speak at the COP26 climate change conference in Glasgow, Scotland. Her invention should be an inspiration to each one of us to pursue clean technology.

The top five technologically advanced countries are Japan, America, Germany, China and South Korea. We Indians will make our mark on this list someday. Technology has a vital role in our lives but lets us be mindful that we control technology and that technology doesn’t control us. Technology is a tool to elevate humanity and is not meant to be a self-destroying mechanism under the pretext of economic development. Lastly, I would like to conclude my speech by saying that technology is a boon for our society but we should use it in a productive way.

A Short Speech on Technology

A warm greeting to everyone present here. Today I am here to talk about technology and how it has gifted us with various innovations. Technology as we know it is the application of scientific ideas to develop a machine or a device for serving the needs of humans. We, human beings, are completely dependent on technology in our daily life. We have used technology in every aspect of our life starting from household needs, schools, offices, communication and entertainment. Our life has been more comfortable due to the use of technology. We are in a much better and comfortable position as compared to our older generation. This is possible because of various contributions and innovations made in the field of technology. Everything has been made easily accessible for us at our fingertips right from buying a thing online to making any banking transaction. It has also led to the invention of the internet which gave us access to search for any information on google. But there are also some disadvantages. Relying too much on technology has made us physically lazy and unhealthy due to the lack of any physical activity. Children have become more prone to video games and social media which have led to obesity and depression. Since they are no longer used to playing outside and socialising, they often feel isolated. Therefore, we must not totally be dependent on technology and should try using it in a productive way.

10 Lines Speech on Technology

Technology has taken an important place in our lives and is considered an asset for our daily needs.

The world around us is totally dependent on technology, thus, making our lives easier.

The innovation of phones, televisions and laptops has digitally served the purpose of entertainment today.

Technology has not only helped us digitally but has also led to various innovations in the field of medical science.

Earlier it took years to diagnose and treat any particular disease, but today with the help of technology it has led to the early diagnosis of several diseases.

We, in this generation, like to do things sitting at our own comfort within a short period of time. This thing has been made possible by technology.

All our daily activities such as banking, shopping, entertainment, learning and communication can be done on a digital platform just by a click on our phone screen.

Although all these gifts of technology are really making our lives faster and easier, it too has got several disadvantages.

Since we all are highly dependent on technology, it has reduced our daily physical activity. We no longer put effort to do anything on our own as everything is available at a minute's click.

Children nowadays are more addicted to online video games rather than playing outside in the playground. These habits make them more physically inactive.

FAQs on Speech on Technology

1. Which kind of technology is the most widely used nowadays?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the field of technology that is being used the most nowadays and is expected to grow even more even in the future. With AI being adopted in numerous sectors and industries and continuously more research being done on it, it will not be long before we see more forms of AI in our daily lives.

2. What is the biggest area of concern with using technology nowadays?

Protection of the data you have online is the biggest area of concern. With hacking and cyberattacks being so common, it is important for everyone to ensure they do not post sensitive data online and be cautious when sharing information with others.

Hobson Wildenthal Honors College

In a Word, Here’s How Speech Team Finds its Voice
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By Rick Vacek | May 9, 2024

There are many different events University of Texas at Dallas students can enter when they join Comet Speech and Forensics , but there is only one way to learn how to excel at speaking in front of an audience.

“We coach it like anything else – through practice,” said Dr. John Gooch, who directs the team with the help of Kathy Lingo, a colleague in the Harry W. Bass Jr. School of Arts, Humanities, and Technology.

These sessions are nothing like a sports workout, however. Rather than taking direction solely from the coaching staff as they alternate practicing their speeches, team members join the coaches in offering their feedback.

“I get everyone involved,” said Gooch, the Bass School’s area head for communication studies and associate professor of rhetoric and communication studies.

Gooch also provides written feedback, and students can have individual practices with him. But the team gatherings contain the most benefits thanks to the let’s-help-each-other tone.

“A lot of it has to do with Dr. Gooch,” junior Pranav Kumar said. “If there ever are any issues, they get resolved very fast and in a very effective way.”

But before attending a practice, a prospective team member usually has to resolve whether to memorize a speech for the platform events or learn how to think quickly and react in the limited preparation (LP) events.

There also are oral interpretation events, but platform and LP were the categories most frequently entered by the UT Dallas contingent in its recent trips to national and international tournaments.

Here’s a look at each category, with comments from Gooch and team members:

Platform Events: Persuasive and Informative

The preparation is as important as the delivery in this category.

“You have to come prepared with your analysis and research in a 10-minute digestible format for an audience that may or may not be experts and persuade them about why this is a prominent issue right now,” senior Alex de Jesus-Colon said. “You have to do it in a way that people will respect it and understand it and see how it weighs against other topics.

“There are a lot of topics going on right now that people feel a need to inform or persuade about.”

Persuasive speaking presents solutions. Gooch loves it because it “very much reminds me of the Greeks and Romans. There’s an argument and they have these areas with a call to action at the end, like someone on the floor of Congress or the Parliament.”

Informative speeches are designed to raise awareness. Junior Sneha Elangovan wrote hers, about health care, in September and then kept changing it based on judges’ remarks. Memorization isn’t a problem for her (“Sometimes I mess up more when I have the script in front of me,” she said), but part of the refinement is learning how to connect with the audience.

“I’m very big on eye contact when I talk to people,” Elangovan said. “When I break the eye contact, I’m like, ‘Oh my gosh. Where was I?’, and then it takes me a little bit to recover. But once it’s in my memory, it’s almost like muscle memory.”

The other platform events are after-dinner, which Gooch likens to “standup comedy with sources,” and communications analysis, defined by the American Forensic Association as “an explanation and/or evaluation of a communication event such as a speech, speaker, movement, poem, poster, film, campaign, etc., through the use of rhetorical principles.”

Limited Preparation: Extemporaneous and Impromptu

These are very different events with very similar challenges.

In extemporaneous, a random draw gives competitors a hot topic in politics or society. They have 30 minutes to research and then present it in a seven-minute talk.

“You have to deal with questions that make people uncomfortable – things they don’t want to talk about,” said de Jesus-Colon, citing this example: Do you believe the TikTok ban is justified?

“I view extemp to be the most challenging and rewarding. It forces you to think about topics you don’t like thinking about in your day-to-day life. Or you might have to explain it in a way the average person can understand.”

Said Gooch, “When I think of public speaking, I think of extemporaneous speaking. I always have.”

Impromptu creates even more pressure to think fast. The student is handed a quotation – sometimes themed, usually from someone famous in history – and has a total of seven minutes to think of what to say and then say it.

Three examples from a recent event:

“You can’t separate peace from freedom because no one can be at peace unless he has his freedom.” – Malcolm X
“Anyone who has ever struggled with poverty knows how extremely expensive it is to be poor.” – James Baldwin
“To know how much there is to know is the beginning of learning to live.” – Dorothy West

Students have seven minutes to prepare and deliver the speech, which means that the faster they prepare, the more time they have to speak. The most successful contestants usually need only 30 seconds to think of the right words.

“With prepared speeches, you have an idea of how well you’re going to do. With impromptu, it truly is a wild card at a tournament, but I think that’s what makes it so fun,” said senior Arlin Khan, who uses her studies as a history and neuroscience major to think of past examples. “When we get back the placements of who made it to finals, it truly is a surprise every time.”

Equally surprising is the feeling when the short-but-stressful talk is over, she added: “Once you’re up there, words come out. Most people feel like they have no idea what they just said.”

Even though he’s the coach, Gooch marvels at how his students react to these speech challenges.

“They’re smarter than I ever thought about being, that’s for sure,” he said. “I often half-jokingly say to people, ‘I wonder what I could have done if I were as smart as these people.’”

Read more: It was far and away a great year for Comet Speech and Forensics

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Speech on Dependence on Technology

Updated on
Aug 13, 2022

ASL or Assessment of Speaking and Listening is an integral part of the CBSE Class IX and X curriculum. It is a part of the continuous and comprehensive evaluation system under CBSE. Students are usually asked to choose a topic they wish to speak on and then prepare a speech on it within a stipulated time period. In this blog, we shall cover the topic of speech on Dependence on Technology!

Speaking Task: Speech on Dependence on Technology (2- 3 minutes)

Good morning everyone. My name is —– and my topic for the assessment is the dependence on technology. With the growing needs and demands of people, the dependence on technology has multiplied over the past few years. Although there is no ignorance of the fact that technology has brought millions of wonders in our lives, right from the field of agriculture, economics, politics to academics. However, what we must think about is how beneficial is this dependence for us? In my honest opinion, the dependence on technology has although we in exceeding our limits in certain ways but also at the same time constrained our abilities to communicate and be creative. So, I would say, dependence on technology has indeed brought certain detrimental effects on our creativity as well as our communication skills.

Check Out – Best English Grammar Books for School Students!

Sample Speech (5 to 10 minutes)

Good morning to all. My name is —- and my topic for the speaking task is the Dependence on Technology and through this speech, I would try my best to cover all the essential pointers.

If we wish to define the technology, in simple terms one may consider it as the knowledge and usage of tools, crafts, systems, methods and techniques of the organization to resolve the problem. Throughout history, different types of technologies have developed that helped man to simplify and better his lifestyle. Over the centuries, rudimentary technologies gave rise to new ones and in some cases replaced earlier technologies came to meet current needs. Ever since the dependence on technology has considerably increased and the consequences on society, countries and individuals are enormous. Technological dependence undoubtedly has a unique course that we cannot alter, nor stop; It has come to redefine our lives.

Technology is a phenomenon that surrounds us all with artefacts on a daily basis. It is an element that helps us keep the changing dynamics of society. Thus, we can say technological dependence is now an essential part of our lives as everyone is reliant on it for some reason or the other. An example of this would be the use of technology at the workplace, educational centres and even at home to simplify work. Dependence on technology is a condition wherein individuals cannot perform their daily activities without the use of some device.

Now that we have discussed the pros, let’s have a look at the cons. Technology dependence is also linked to anxiety and depression. Factors like social withdrawal from others, the pressures from social media, the rise of cyberbullying, or the bright phone screen that is detrimental to our sleep have taken a toll on the mental health of people who are heavily dependent on technology.

In spite of the numerous disadvantages, one could say that without sustainable development of technology, humans would merely be ordinary living being on the planet. The inventions of man act as indicators of the cognitive revolution of the same and shows their eagerness to learn.

Thank you for listening, I hope this speech was insightful and informative.

Check Out – Expert Tips on Speech Writing

This was all about the ASL topic- the Dependence on Technology. If you are studying for your exams and need quick notes for revision then check out other study blogs on Leverage Edu and subscribe to our newsletter to get regular updates.

Team Leverage Edu

10 comments

Thank you! Here are some blogs for you to explore- https://leverageedu.com/blog/best-english-grammar-books/ https://leverageedu.com/blog/50-difficult-words-with-meanings/

i really liked this speech it really helped me in my collage essay

Hi Luara, We are glad to know that this blog has helped you with your speech task in your college essay. Here are some more blogs that can definitely prove to help you in the future: 1. https://leverageedu.com/blog/speech-writing/ 2. https://leverageedu.com/blog/figures-of-speech/ 3. https://leverageedu.com/blog/speech-on-poverty/ 4. https://leverageedu.com/blog/public-speaking/

your article was awesome dude.I am reading whole articles up to down . But it is great |

Thank you! Glad that you enjoyed it.

Thank You For Writing Such A Nice Speech

Awesome way of expressing their thoughts Process thru this article i found that informative

the increasing dependency of the people on technology after covid is a boon for nation progress

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Technology has been an important part of our daily lives. Therefore, it is important for the students to be familiar with the term technology. Therefore, we have provided a long speech on technology for students of all age groups. There is also a short speech and a 10 lines speech given in this article. Long Speech on Technology
In a Word, Here's How Speech Team Finds its Voice
Persuasive speaking presents solutions. Gooch loves it because it "very much reminds me of the Greeks and Romans. There's an argument and they have these areas with a call to action at the end, like someone on the floor of Congress or the Parliament." Informative speeches are designed to raise awareness.
Sample Speech on Dependence on Technology
Sample Speech (5 to 10 minutes) Good morning to all. My name is —- and my topic for the speaking task is the Dependence on Technology and through this speech, I would try my best to cover all the essential pointers. If we wish to define the technology, in simple terms one may consider it as the knowledge and usage of tools, crafts, systems ...

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Technology Persuasive Speech Topics

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Tap into the power to persuade by using these 6 techniques of clear and compelling speech

Politicians and other public figures deploy particular rhetorical devices to communicate their ideas and to convince people, and it’s time that we all learned how to use them, says speechwriter Simon Lancaster.

Building block #1: Breathless sentences or phrases

Building block #2: Speaking in 3s

Building block #3: Balanced statements

Building block #4: Metaphor

Building block #5: Exaggeration

Building block #6: Rhyming

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