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160 Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Students in 2024

April 3, 2024

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

What is an Argumentative Essay?

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

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

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

Argumentative Essay Format

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

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

How to Write an Effective Argumentative Essay, Step by Step

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

Tips for Revising an Argument Essay

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

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

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

Family argumentative essay topics.

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

Education Argument Essay Topics

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

Government Argumentative Essay Topics

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

Health/Bioethics Argumentative Essay Topics

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

Good Argumentative Essay Topics — Continued

Social media argumentative essay topics.

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

Religion Argument Essay Topics

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

Science Argument Essay Topics

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

Sports Argument Essay Topics

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

Technology Argumentative Essay Topics

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

Business Argument Essay Topics

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

In Conclusion – Argument Essay Topics

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

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

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

Lauren Green

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

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101 Standout Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

An argumentative essay is just what it sounds like: an essay where you argue. You pick a topic, take a stance, research information to support your opinion, state your claims, and voilà! You’ve got your essay.

As simple as that may sound, writing a persuasive essay can be quite difficult for even very experienced writers. It takes excellent organization and planning to clearly address your thoughts and requires stellar research skills to find valid arguments that support your claim.

But before you can state your case, you first need to come up with the topic you’re going to argue about.

How to Choose a Topic for an Argumentative Essay

When you choose a topic for an argumentative essay, it’s important to keep these tips in mind:

• Your topic must be debatable. Duh... this seems obvious, but it’s worth stating. You need a topic that has (at least) two sides. Choosing a topic such as Puerto Rico is My Favorite Place is not really debatable. However, picking a topic like Puerto Rico Should Become the 51st State to Join the United States is something arguable. Some people agree with this statement, and others do not. There are pros and cons that can be discussed. ‍
• Write about what people are talking about. Watch the news. Browse the internet. It’s more engaging to write about something that’s relevant right now. For example, if you keep hearing a lot about immigration, you might choose a topic such as America Should Close Its Borders . Or if you read a lot about standardized testing in schools, you can create a topic like Colleges Should Eliminate Standardized Testing From Their Application Process . When a topic is current and intriguing, it makes for a more interesting essay. ‍
• Reflect on your interests. It’s always better to write about something for which you have a passion. If you love video games, you could write a persuasive essay such as Video Gaming is Healthy for Teens . If you’re passionate about sports, you could cover something like College Athletes Deserve to Be Paid . Researching and writing an argumentative essay takes quite a bit of time, so you should pick a topic you’re fascinated by to make the process a little less painless.

Forming General Arguments

To test whether or not the prompt you have in mind is up to snuff for an entire essay, you can test it out by putting it in a general argument.

Pick the topic you’re thinking about and see if it works as a two-sided debate in any of the following formats:

• Is…effective? Productive? Helpful? Worth it? (i.e. Is school choice effective?)
• Is…hurtful? Harmful? Wasteful? (i.e. Is fracking harmful to the environment?)
• …should be allowed for… (i.e. Alcohol should be allowed for all people who are 18 and older. )
• …should be forbidden for… (i.e. Football should be forbidden for children under the age of ten .)

If you can make a topic from any of these, you’re ready at this point to start outlining your essay . If not, you need to find a more specific starting point.

Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

Need some ideas to help you choose a topic? This list will get you started.

Note that these are listed as questions so you can take your own stance. For example, Should everyone have free healthcare? gives you at least two possible topics depending on your point of view: Everyone is Entitled to Free Healthcare vs. It is Not the Government’s Responsibility to Provide Healthcare for Everyone .

Laws & Policies

• Should the drinking age be lowered/raised?
• Should military participation be mandatory for all citizens?
• Should all Americans be required to speak English fluently?
• Should Americans be required to speak Spanish?
• Should teachers be armed?
• Should gun control laws be stricter?
• Should the military age be lowered/raised?
• Should there be limits to free speech?
• Should marijuana be legal?
• Should the internet be censored?
• Are gun control laws too strict?
• Should people of the same sex be allowed to marry each other?
• Should abortion be legal?
• Should laws be grounded in religion?
• Should churches be tax-free institutions?
• Should the voting age be lowered/raised?
• Should felons have the right to vote?
• Should the electoral college still exist?
• Should Puerto Rico become a state?
• Should all politicians have term limits?
• Should everyone have free healthcare?
• Should social security be privatized?
• Should the United States build a wall between the U.S. and Mexico?
• Should the minimum wage be raised?
• Should wealthier citizens pay more taxes?
• Should the use of the penny be eliminated?
• Should every citizen be required to vote?
• Is life better now than it was X years ago?
• Who is the greatest president of all time?
• Who is the most ethical/moral politician that has ever served?
• Is globalization a good thing?
• How can governments prevent World War 3?
• Is democracy the best form of government?
• Are teenagers now smarter than teenagers of past generations?
• Does revolution result in real change?
• Should the U.S. get involved with other countries’ wars?
• Should cursive writing be taught in schools?
• Should students have to wear school uniforms?
• Should all students have free college tuition?
• Should teachers be paid more?
• Should K–12 school selection be based on where you live?
• Should all students be required to study abroad?
• Should year-round schooling be mandatory?
• Should high school start times be later?
• Should everyone be required to learn a foreign language?
• Should schools have mandatory metal detectors and security guards?
• Is standardized testing fair?
• Should prayer be allowed in school?
• Should sex education be required for all students?
• Are single-sex schools more effective?
• Should students be required to take a year off before starting college?

Science & Technology

• Should we invest in space travel?
• Are nuclear weapons helping make the world safe?
• Are video games harmful?
• Do video games cause children to be violent?
• Does screen time have an effect on a child’s social behavior?
• Should animals be used to test new products?
• Has technology helped or hurt society?
• Does technology make life easier?
• Are online relationships legitimate?
• Is cloning ethical?
• How can we best fight against the obesity epidemic?
• Should smoking be illegal?
• Should energy drinks be banned?
• Are diets helpful?
• Is technology making healthcare more/less personal?
• Should schools offer healthier food choices?
• Should doctor-assisted suicide exist?
• Should unhealthy foods and beverages be taxed at a higher rate?
• Should physical education be mandatory for everyone?
• Should recycling be mandatory?
• Should every household have a trash limit?
• Should people eat vegan to help save the environment?
• Should tax money be used to save endangered species?
• Should cars be outlawed in cities?
• Should plastic straws and bags be banned worldwide?
• Should there be limits on water usage?
• Should solar and wind power be used more often than other energies?
• Should college athletes be paid?
• Should players have to stand for the National Anthem?
• Do athletes have a responsibility to be role models?
• Who is the greatest athlete of all time?
• Is football too dangerous for young athletes?
• Should sports betting be illegal?
• Does playing a sport help build character in young children?
• Should professional sports have cheerleaders?

Pop Culture & the Arts

• Should beauty contests be terminated?
• Should artwork be censored?
• Do celebrities have responsibilities to be role models?
• Is social media helpful or hurtful?
• Do television shows accurately represent current American lifestyles?
• Should music be censored?
• Should people live together before marriage?
• Should children be put in the spotlight at a young age?
• Does money lead to happiness?
• Should the death penalty be abolished?
• Is there any time when breaking the law is okay?
• Is money the root of all evil?
• Are we responsible for other people or only for ourselves?
• Do the ends justify the means of any action?
• Can people ever change who they are?

Once you have chosen a topic that is relevant, debatable, and worth discussing, you are free to begin organizing your argumentative essay. Outline your opinion, do some research, and get started!

How to Write Essay Titles and Headers

Don’t overlook the title and section headers when putting together your next writing assignment. Follow these pointers for keeping your writing organized and effective.

Need a topic for your upcoming argumentative essay? We've got 100 helpful prompts to help you get kickstarted on your next writing assignment.

Writing a Standout College Admissions Essay

Your personal statement is arguably the most important part of your college application. Follow these guidelines for an exceptional admissions essay.

Argumentative Essay Topics and Ideas

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

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

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Examples of Argumentative Essay Topics

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

Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle Schoolers

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

Argumentative Essay Topics for High School Students

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

Argumentative Essay Topics for College Students

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

Controversial Argumentative Essay Topics

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

Funny Argumentative Essay Topics

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

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Topics for Argumentative Speech

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

Use our speech writing service if you want to leave your audience nothing short of amazed!

Argument Topics on Social Media 

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

Argument Topics on Music

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

Health Argumentative Essay Topics

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

Argument Topics on Science and Technology

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

Argument Topics on Sports

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

Argument Topics on Government

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

Argument Topics on TV, Movies, Video Games

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

How to Choose Argumentative Essay Topics

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

Explore Your Interests

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

Consider Controversy

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

Assess Current Relevance

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

Narrow Down Broad Topics

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

Evaluate Feasibility

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

Check for Personal Connection

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

Seek Feedback

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

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

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

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What Is the Five-Paragraph Argumentative Essay?

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

Daniel Parker

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

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

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

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237 Original Pros And Cons Topics To Write A Great Thesis

Pros and cons writing assignments are sometimes referred to as advantages and disadvantages papers. Even though these papers are not generally difficult to write, you still need to come up with some great pros and cons. After all, these are the most important parts of your essay and your professor will grade you according to their quality. Of course, to come up with great arguments, you need to find some great pros and cons topics to write about.

Writing your paper on a topic like “the pros and cons of getting a pet cat” will most likely not get you an A+. This is why you should definitely take a look at our list of 237 100% original topic ideas. We have topics about everything you can write about. And yes, our list also includes some very thought-provoking pro con controversial topics. You can use any of these ideas free of charge and you don’t even have to give us credit. Just choose one and start writing!

What Are Pros And Cons Papers?

Did you just receive a writing assignment related to writing a pros and cons essay? Most students don’t really know what this is, so it’s time to shed some light on the matter. Pros and cons is just another name for the argumentative essay. You’ve probably heard of the argumentative essay, but do you really know what they are and why they are important?

Pros and cons essays are a type of academic writing that present the arguments for and against a particular topic. The purpose of this type of essay is to weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks of a particular issue, decision, or situation and provide an informed opinion. Argumentative papers are important because they:

Encourage critical thinking and evaluation of both sides of an issue Help the writer develop a well-rounded understanding of the topic Provide the opportunity to present both sides of an argument Can be used to present both personal and research-based opinions

Writing such a paper is not difficult, but the quality of your pro con arguments depends on the topic you choose. Fortunately, we have 237 unique topics for you right here on this page, so all you have to do is take your pick:

Best Pros And Cons Topics For Students

As you probably know already, we have some of the best pros and cons topics for students. Take a look at these ideas and choose the one you like the most:

• The impact of social media on human relationships
• The pros and cons of remote work arrangements
• Using social media in United States schools: pros and cons
• The ethical considerations of artificial intelligence and automation
• The effect of the gig economy on employee benefits
• The role of standardized testing in education in South Korea
• The impact of climate change on global food security
• Standardized testing in education: pros and cons
• The future of transportation: electric cars vs. self-driving cars
• Pros and cons of advancements in mobile technology
• The use of drones in military and civilian contexts
• Online learning vs. traditional classroom education: pros and cons
• The effects of online privacy on corporate responsibility
• The impact of automation on job displacement and the economy
• The value of a college education in today’s job market

Pro And Con Debate Topics

Do you need to prepare for a debate? Then you should make sure that you come up with the best topic possible. Here are some excellent pro and con debate topics for you:

• The use of GMOs in the production of agricultural products
• The use of facial recognition technology by police
• The effects of social media on our mental health
• The use of single-use plastics in everyday life
• The impact of remote work on work-life balance
• Pros and cons of using drones in military and civilian contexts
• The effect of the rise of automation on job displacement
• The impact of mobile technology on social interactions
• The role of government in regulating the tech industry
• The impact of internet censorship on free speech
• The use of animal testing in scientific research
• The impact of renewable energy sources on the environment
• Pros and cons of the legalization of marijuana for recreational use
• The role of vaccination in public health in China
• The effect of immigration policies on the economy

Pro Vs Con Topics Related To Animals

Who doesn’t love animals? So, why not write your paper on an interesting topic? Check out these original pro vs con topics related to animals:

• The impact of deforestation on wildlife habitats
• The ethics of zoos and captive animal displays
• The role of hunting in wildlife conservation
• The impact of climate change on migration patterns
• The use of animal testing in cosmetics: pros and cons
• The impact of overfishing on marine ecosystems
• The effects of plastic pollution on marine life
• The impact of urbanization on wildlife populations
• The benefits and drawbacks of domesticated animals as pets
• The role of animal agriculture in global food security
• The impact of pollution on wildlife health and populations
• The ethics of wildlife trade and trafficking: pros and cons
• The role of wildlife conservation in protecting biodiversity
• The impact of invasive species on native wildlife
• The effects of human-wildlife conflict on animal populations
• The impact of oil and gas drilling on wildlife habitats
• The benefits and drawbacks of wildlife tourism: pros and cons

Pro And Cons Topics For High School

Are you a high school student? Do you need a topic idea that will get you a top grade? Pick one of our pro and cons topics for high school and start writing in minutes:

• Summer break: pros and cons for student learning
• The impact of technology on relationships
• The effects of social media on self-esteem
• The role of education in preparing students for the future workforce
• The effects of poverty on health in the UK
• The impact of advertising on body image
• The effects of standardized testing on student motivation
• The impact of cell phone use on student learning: pros and cons
• The impact of parental involvement on student success
• The role of peer pressure on adolescent decision-making
• The effects of sleep deprivation on academic performance
• Bullying in US High schools: pros and cons
• The effects of social media on political engagement and activism
• The role of community service in developing leadership skills
• The impact of technology on mental health in the US
• The effects of stress on student health: pros and cons
• The impact of parental involvement on adolescent substance abuse

Advantages And Disadvantages Topics For 2023

Interested in some topics that are of interest right now? We have selected the absolute best advantages and disadvantages topics for 2023 for you:

• The impact of genetically modified crops on the environment
• The impact of internet censorship on democracy in 2023
• The benefits and drawbacks of remote work employers
• The advantages and disadvantages of using AI in healthcare
• Should schools continue with online learning?
• The pros and cons of genetically modifying crops
• The benefits and drawbacks of smart cities in Europe
• Should individuals be required to get vaccinated against COVID-19?
• The advantages and disadvantages of space exploration
• The benefits and drawbacks of renewable energy sources
• The advantages and disadvantages of self-driving cars
• The impact of AI on privacy in 2023
• Should countries adopt a Universal Basic Income?

Pro Con Paper Topics For College Students

The following topics are a bit more difficult than the ones we’ve listed so far. These are unique pro oncon paper topics for college students:

• The impact of e-commerce on brick-and-mortar businesses
• The pros and drawbacks of using drones for delivery
• The impact of technology on interpersonal relationships
• Advantages and disadvantages of renewable energy sources
• Advantages and disadvantages of animal testing
• The effects of personalized marketing on consumer privacy
• Pros and cons of using autonomous drones for delivery
• The impact of wearable technology on personal privacy
• Pros and cons of using crowdfunding for small business funding
• The effect of autonomous vehicles on the insurance industry
• Benefits and disadvantages of using blockchain technology for voting
• The impact of wearable fitness trackers on healthy behaviors
• The benefits and drawbacks of using smart homes technology
• The impact of 5G technology on the telecommunications industry
• Pros and cons of using AI in financial services in the US
• The effect of the sharing economy on the hospitality industry

Good Pros And Cons Topics For 2023

Looking for some topics that should work great in 2023? You’ll be thrilled to hear that we have some exceptional good pros and cons topics for 2023 right here:

• The impact of telemedicine on healthcare accessibility
• The pros and cons of using smart home technology
• Augmented reality in education and learning
• Renewable energy sources or traditional fossil fuels?
• The impact of virtual reality on entertainment in Europe
• The advantages and disadvantages of biodegradable packaging
• The impact of robotics on manual labor jobs in the UK
• The effect of AI on decision-making
• Telepresence technology for remote work and meetings
• The impact of renewable energy sources on the economy
• Biometric technology for personal identification and security
• Pros and cons of using autonomous vehicles for logistics
• Effects of renewable energy sources on energy independence
• The advantages and disadvantages of using AI in criminal justice

Pro Versus Con Ideas Related To Science And Tech

If you want to write about science and tech, our seasoned writers and editors have created a list of interesting pro versus con ideas related to science and tech just for you:

• Is the use of AI in the workplace increasing productivity or taking away jobs?
• The benefits and drawbacks of using robots in manufacturing
• Is the use of biotechnology in agriculture posing a threat to the environment?
• The impact of augmented reality on human behavior
• Should governments invest in commercial space travel?
• Is the use of smart home technology invading privacy?
• The pros and cons of using nanotechnology healthcare
• The impact of 3D printing on manufacturing
• The advantages and disadvantages of using drones for surveillance
• Is the increasing use of AI in the criminal justice system fair?
• The pros and cons of using telemedicine for healthcare delivery
• The impact of autonomous vehicles on transportation
• Is the widespread use of social media damaging interpersonal relationships?

Easy Topics With Pros And Cons

Choose one of these easy topics with pros and cons if you don’t want to spend too much time writing your paper:

• The impact of exercise on physical health
• Pros and cons of spending time in nature
• The benefits and drawbacks of living in a big city in the United States
• The impact of a diet on mental health
• The benefits and drawbacks of online education
• The impact of social media on body image
• The pros and cons of volunteering in the United Kingdom
• The effects of stress on mental health
• The benefits and drawbacks of living in a small town
• The role of advertising in influencing consumer behavior
• The pros and cons of planning for the future
• The effect of screen time on children’s development
• The pros and cons of practicing mindfulness and meditation
• The advantages and disadvantages of exploring new cultures
• The benefits of reading books and expanding your knowledge
• The pros and cons of spending time with friends and family

Real-Life Pros And Cons Issues

The following is a comprehensive list of real-life pros and cons issues, including economic, social, and political topics:

• Benefits and drawbacks of using blockchain technology
• The impact of electric vehicles on the oil industry in Europe
• The pros and cons vertical farming
• Online education effects on traditional colleges and universities
• Using nanotechnology in consumer products
• The impact of social media influencers on purchasing decisions
• Benefits and drawbacks of using AI in customer support
• The effect of telecommuting on employee productivity and job satisfaction
• Pros and cons of using virtual reality in real estate in the United States
• The effect of the gig economy on traditional employment
• The advantages and disadvantages of using biometric technology
• Pros and cons of using virtual reality for therapy
• The impact of the internet of things (IoT) on personal privacy
• The advantages and disadvantages of using drones in agriculture
• Pros and cons of using cloud computing for data management

Advantages And Disadvantages Topics About Society And Culture

The following is a list of the pros and cons of various aspects of society and culture, highlighting the positive and negative effects they may have on individuals and communities:

• The effects of multiculturalism on cultural diversity.
• The pros and cons of using social media for social change.
• Effects of the decline of organized religion on spirituality
• The advantages and disadvantages of the globalization of popular culture
• The impact of technology on dating and relationships
• Benefits and drawbacks of the rise of remote work
• The impact of legalizing gay marriages on traditional family values
• Pros and cons of the use of social media for personal expression
• The decline of traditional gender roles and its effect on family dynamics and relationships
• The pros and cons of the “body positive” movement on and self-esteem
• Effects of the gentrification of urban neighborhoods on economic diversity
• Benefits and disadvantages of the “Me Too” movement
• The effect of the rise of the “cancel culture” movement on free speech
• The impact of eco-tourism on local cultures and the environment
• Pros and cons of the use of digital currencies for financial transactions

Hot Pros And Cons Topic Ideas In 2023

Below, you can find a list of hot pros and cons topic ideas that should be highly appreciated by your professors in 2023:

• Pros and cons of virtual reality technology
• Advantages and disadvantages of a cashless society
• Pros and cons of gene editing
• The advantages and disadvantages of the use of pesticides in agriculture
• Pros and cons of the use of antibiotics in agriculture
• Talk about the pros and cons of self-driving cars
• Advantages and disadvantages of space tourism
• Pros and cons of using blockchain technology
• Benefits and drawbacks of year-round schooling
• The advantages and disadvantages of homeschooling vs. traditional schooling
• Advantages and disadvantages of using drones for deliveries
• Pros and cons of having a Universal Basic Income
• Benefits and drawbacks of plastic packaging
• Advantages and disadvantages of electric air travel

Current Pros And Cons Subjects

It’s always a good idea to write your papers on current topics. Take a look at some of the most exciting current pros and cons subjects:

• Advantages and disadvantages of homeschooling
• Pros and cons of alternative medicine
• Benefits and drawbacks of vegetarian and vegan diets
• Advantages and disadvantages of a monarchy
• Advantages and disadvantages of communism
• Pros and cons of nuclear power
• Benefits and drawbacks of using hydroelectric power
• Advantages and disadvantages of fracking
• Benefits and drawbacks of solar energy
• Pros and cons of geothermal energy use
• The advantages and disadvantages of genetically modified animals
• Pros and cons of space exploration and colonization
• Advantages and disadvantages of the death penalty
• Discuss gun control laws in the US

Controversial Pro Con Topics

Our experts managed to create 14 brand new controversial pro con topics that you can use for free right now. Pick one of our ideas and get an A+:

• The benefits and disadvantages of GMOs
• The impact of the death penalty on crime rates
• Pros and cons of legalizing marijuana in the UK
• The effect of immigration policies on the job market
• The advantages and disadvantages of embryonic stem cells in medical research
• The impact of affirmative action policies on equality in the workplace
• Pros and cons of using pesticides in agriculture
• The impact of gun control laws on crime
• The advantages and disadvantages of using animal testing for medical research
• The effects of using hydrofracking for natural gas extraction
• Pros and cons of using nuclear energy for power generation
• The effect of using the controversial stop-and-frisk policing strategy
• The advantages and disadvantages of the use of vaccine mandates
• The impact of net neutrality regulations on the technology industry

Interesting Pros And Cons Topics Related To Health

Discussing a topic in health or healthcare can get you some bonus points. Here are some interesting pros and cons topics related to health:

• Pros and cons of the capital punishment
• Advantages and disadvantages of the use of biometric identification
• Pros and cons of using standardized tests
• Pros and cons of the legalization of marijuana
• Advantages and disadvantages of the minimum wage
• Pros and cons of using of surveillance cameras
• Pros and cons of the use of the Internet of Things (IoT)
• Pros and cons of the use of smart cities
• Advantages and disadvantages of the use of stem cell research
• Pros and cons of the use of e-cigarettes
• Pros and cons of using plastic surgery
• Advantages and disadvantages using biotechnology
• Pros and cons of the use of the dark web
• Pros and cons of using telemedicine

Our Latest Pros And Cons Ideas (2023)

Take a look at our latest pros and cons ideas from our best research paper services writers. These have been added recently and should be a great choice in 2023:

• Pros and cons of using nuclear fusion as a source of energy
• Benefits and drawbacks of using geothermal energy
• Advantages and disadvantages of the use of growth hormones in livestock
• Pros and cons of using genetically modified insects for pest control.
• Pro and cons of using anaerobic digestion for waste management
• Pros and cons of using incineration for waste management
• Benefits and drawbacks of using landfills for waste management
• Advantages and disadvantages of globalization
• Pros and cons of the NAFTA trade agreement
• Pros and cons of the NAFTA trade agreement TPP agreement
• Benefits and drawbacks of outsourcing jobs
• The advantages and disadvantages of using pyrolysis
• Pros and cons of using plasma gasification
• Advantages and disadvantages of using waste-to-energy facilities

Best Research Paper And Thesis Help

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Not only can we send you a personalized list of good pros and cons topics, we can also write your paper for you. We are quick and reliable, so you can get an original (written from scratch) essay in as little as 3 hours from us. Our helpful customer support department is online 24/7/365, so you can place an order at 3 in the morning and have the paper in your inbox by 8AM. How cool is that? Give us a try and get a discount just for placing your first order with us!

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52 Argumentative Essay Ideas that are Actually Interesting

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

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

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

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

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

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

Convincing Thesis Statement

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

Ample Research

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

Clear Structure

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

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

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

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

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

Art / Culture

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

Where to Get More Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

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

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100 Good Argumentative Essay Topics: Examples and Tips

By Eric Eng

Ever tried getting into a heated debate with a friend over the best movie of the year? Or arguing with your sibling about who deserved the last slice of pizza? If yes, you’ve already dabbled in the art of argumentation. In academic writing , though, this skill gets taken up a notch. And it all starts with picking good argumentative essay topics.

Your topic sets the tone for your whole paper. To hit the mark, your topic needs to be relevant, debatable, and backed by solid research. Miss these, and your essay might struggle to keep your audience engaged or convincingly argue your side. In this blog, we’ll provide a list of good argumentative essay topics, show you how to spot the best ones, and share tips on writing a strong argumentative essay.

List of Good Argumentative Essay Topics

How to choose a good argumentative essay topic, how to write a good argumentative essay, frequently asked questions.

A solid argumentative essay starts with choosing the right topic. Below, you’ll find a 100 good argumentative essay topics, organized by category. These are not only relevant and debatable, but they also offer plenty of research opportunities.

Social issues argumentative essay topics

1. Should we prioritize privacy over security in our digital age?

2. Is universal basic income a real solution to economic inequality?

3. Do governments need to step in and regulate freedom of speech on social media?

4. Is affirmative action still necessary, or has its time passed?

5. Should hate speech be protected under free speech laws , or is that a step too far?

6. Is the wealth gap at the heart of social unrest?

7. Would lowering the voting age to 16 make a difference?

8. Is social media addiction something we should treat as a public health crisis?

9. Should there be tougher laws against online bullying?

10. Could mandatory national service be the key to building a stronger society?

Technology and innovation argumentative essay topics

1. Do we need stricter rules around the ethical development of artificial intelligence?

2. Is social media more harmful than helpful when it comes to shaping public opinion?

3. Are autonomous vehicles ready for public roads, or should we pump the brakes?

4. Is automation really eating up job opportunities, or is that just the future we’re headed towards?

5. Should we allow genetic engineering to create “designer babies,” or is that a line we shouldn’t cross?

6. Is the collection of personal data by tech companies a blatant violation of privacy?

7. Should the government step in and regulate cryptocurrencies?

8. Is virtual reality poised to become the future of education and training?

9. Do we need global regulations to keep drone use in check?

10. Is facial recognition technology a threat to our personal freedom?

Education argumentative essay topics

1. Should we ditch standardized testing and find better ways to assess students?

2. Can remote learning ever be as effective as traditional classroom education?

3. Would free college tuition for all be the game-changer we need?

4. Is homeschooling really a better alternative to the traditional school system?

5. Should schools put more focus on teaching life skills instead of just academics?

6. Is our current education system preparing students for the jobs of the future?

7. Should every student be required to learn a second language in school?

8. Is the focus on STEM education drowning out the importance of the arts?

9. Do we need stricter dress codes in schools , or are they already too rigid?

10. Is the grading system a true reflection of a student’s abilities?

Health and medicine argumentative essay topics

1. Should vaccine mandates be enforced for the greater good of public health?

2. Are we doing enough to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues?

3. Is it time to legalize euthanasia across the globe?

4. Is the anti-vaccine movement a genuine threat to global health?

5. Should the government step in to regulate the skyrocketing prices of prescription drugs?

6. Can alternative medicine really stand up as a treatment option for chronic illnesses?

7. Do we need to cap how much healthcare providers can charge for their services?

8. Is the current healthcare system in the United States something we can sustain in the long run?

9. Should medical research focus more on extending life or improving its quality?

10. Is it ethical to use animals in medical research, or should we find another way?

Environmental issues argumentative essay topics

1. Should governments really crack down on carbon emissions to tackle climate change head-on?

2. Is nuclear energy the sustainable answer we’ve been looking for in the global energy crisis?

3. Would banning single-use plastics worldwide actually make a dent in environmental pollution?

4. Is it ethical to push for economic development at the expense of environmental conservation in developing countries?

5. Should we rally together globally to save endangered species from extinction?

6. Is climate change truly the biggest threat humanity faces in the 21st century?

7. Should countries be held legally responsible if they fail to meet international climate agreements?

8. Is promoting electric vehicles the best way to cut down on greenhouse gas emissions?

9. Should water use be more tightly regulated in areas facing severe droughts?

10. Can we justify exploiting natural resources in the Arctic, knowing the potential environmental damage?

Politics and governance argumentative essay topics

1. Should the electoral college in the U.S. be scrapped in favor of a popular vote system?

2. Is proportional representation a fairer way to govern compared to first-past-the-post?

3. Would imposing term limits on all elected officials help prevent power from getting too concentrated?

4. Is globalization a boon or a bane for national sovereignty?

5. Should governments have the power to censor online information in the name of national security?

6. Is the rise of populism a serious threat to democracy worldwide?

7. Would making voting mandatory in democratic elections really boost voter turnout?

8. Is the United Nations actually effective in keeping global peace and security?

9. Should we ban political donations from corporations to lessen money’s influence in politics?

10. Is it justified for governments to impose austerity measures during economic downturns?

Ethics and morality argumentative essay topics

1. Should assisted suicide be legalized for those suffering from terminal illnesses?

2. Is it ethical to use animals in scientific research and experiments?

3. Would a universal basic income be a moral move to ensure everyone has a minimum standard of living?

4. Is it morally acceptable to genetically modify embryos to prevent certain genetic disorders?

5. Should businesses be required to put ethical practices above chasing profits?

6. Is it right to enforce mandatory vaccinations for the greater public good?

7. Should the death penalty be abolished worldwide because it violates human rights?

8. Is it ethical to let parents choose their child’s gender through genetic selection?

9. Should whistleblowers be legally protected, even if they expose national security secrets?

10. Is it ever morally justifiable to use torture in extreme cases to get information from terrorists?

Economics and business argumentative essay topics

1. Should we bump up the minimum wage to keep pace with today’s cost of living?

2. Is capitalism really the best system for driving innovation and economic growth?

3. Should governments step in to bail out struggling industries during recessions?

4. Is corporate social responsibility a real commitment or just a clever marketing ploy?

5. Should multinational corporations be held accountable for the labor practices within their supply chains?

6. Could universal basic income be the answer to unemployment caused by automation?

7. Should insider trading come with harsher penalties to crack down on financial crimes?

8. Is the gig economy more of a blessing or a curse when it comes to workers’ rights and job security?

9. Do financial institutions need stricter regulations to prevent another economic meltdown?

10. Is the wealth gap just a natural result of free-market capitalism, or should we tackle it through government intervention?

Media and entertainment argumentative essay topics

1. Should social media platforms take responsibility for the spread of misinformation?

2. Is censorship in media ever justified in the name of protecting public morals and security?

3. Should we ban violent video games for minors to curb aggressive behavior?

4. Is Hollywood really lacking in diversity, and should the industry make a serious effort to fix it?

5. Should reality TV shows be held to the same ethical standards as news programs?

6. Is the way media portrays mental illness doing more harm by spreading stigma or helping by raising awareness?

7. Should music with explicit content face stricter age restrictions?

8. Is binge-watching TV shows hurting our mental health and productivity?

9. Should celebrities use their influence to speak out on political and social issues ?

10. Is the impact of media on body image doing more harm than good?

Law and justice argumentative essay topics

1. Should the legal drinking age be lowered or raised based on recent studies?

2. Is the current prison system really effective at rehabilitating criminals, or is it falling short?

3. Should we decriminalize the use of recreational drugs to cut down on incarceration rates?

4. Does the “three strikes” law actually deter repeat offenders, or is it just overcrowding our prisons?

5. When it comes to anti-terrorism laws, should the right to privacy take priority over national security?

6. Is plea bargaining an ethical practice in the criminal justice system, or is it time for reform?

7. Should juvenile offenders face adult sentences for serious crimes, or is that too harsh?

8. Is the current bail system unjustly favoring the wealthy?

9. Should hate crimes come with harsher penalties than other crimes?

10. Is the death penalty a true deterrent to crime, or should we abolish it on moral grounds?

Good argumentative essay topics have the following qualities: relevance, debatability, and research availability. Nail these three elements, and you’re on your way to crafting an engaging and persuasive essay.

1. Relevance

When you pick current argumentative essay topics, you’re tapping into issues that people are already thinking and talking about. That’s key to grabbing your reader’s attention. For example, with technology advancing at breakneck speed, the ethical implications of artificial intelligence (AI) are more relevant than ever.

Another hot topic? Climate change policies. With countries striving to meet international climate goals, this issue isn’t going away anytime soon. Sticking to current topics keeps your essay engaging because readers are naturally more interested in things that affect their lives right now.

2. Debatability

Good argumentative essay topics contain multiple viewpoints and can spark a real debate. Take the death penalty, for instance—people have strong, reasonable arguments on both sides. Or think about the controversy over whether social media platforms should tighten their content regulations. This debate has everyone from free speech advocates to those worried about misinformation weighing in.

When your topic has multiple perspectives, it gives you the room to explore different angles and build a well-rounded, nuanced argument.

3. Research availability

No matter how good your topic is, if you can’t back it up with solid research, your argument won’t hold water. That’s why it’s crucial to pick argumentative essay topics with plenty of available data and credible sources. Vaccine mandates, for example, are a well-researched topic, with data from institutions like the CDC and WHO readily accessible.

To ensure your argumentative essay topics are well-supported by research, dig into journal articles, books, and reliable online sources that give you comprehensive information. Here are some go-to sources for gathering reliable research to support your essay:

• Google Scholar: A great starting point for finding peer-reviewed research and academic papers across various fields. It’s a repository for scholarly articles, theses, and conference papers.
• JSTOR: Perfect for historical and humanities-related argumentative essay topics, JSTOR provides access to academic journals , books, and primary sources.
• PubMed: Managed by the NIH, PubMed offers an extensive database of biomedical and life sciences literature. It’s ideal for health-related topics like vaccine mandates and public health policies.
• The New York Times: For current events and social issues, The New York Times delivers well-researched articles and in-depth analysis, with archives that help track how issues have evolved.
• The Pew Research Center: This nonpartisan think tank is your go-to for data-driven insights on social, political, and technological trends.
• The World Health Organization (WHO): For argumentative essay topics related to global health, the WHO provides a wealth of information, including research reports, statistical data, and policy guidelines.

Aside from picking the right topics, writing a good argumentative essay means building a case that’s hard to refute. You need a clear structure, a strong thesis, logical arguments, and the ability to address opposing views thoughtfully. Mastering these elements will help you craft an essay that’s not just persuasive but also well-rounded.

1. Understand the structure.

An argumentative essay usually sticks to a familiar format: introduction, body, and conclusion.

• Your introduction needs to hook your reader and lay out your thesis statement—the main point you’ll be arguing.
• The body is where you flesh out your arguments, each one supported by evidence and analysis. Break this section into paragraphs, with each one zeroing in on a specific aspect of your argument.
• The conclusion wraps it all up, summarizing your key points and reinforcing your thesis to drive home your argument.

Let’s say you’re writing about the ethics of AI. Your introduction might start with something like, “As artificial intelligence keeps advancing, the ethical questions surrounding it are becoming harder to ignore.” In the body of your argumentative essay, you’d dive into topics like privacy concerns, algorithmic bias, and job loss, backing each one up with studies or expert opinions. Your conclusion would then tie everything together, reinforcing why AI developers must consider these ethical responsibilities.

2. Craft a strong thesis statement.

Your thesis statement is the backbone of your essay. It needs to be clear, concise, and specific so your reader knows exactly where you stand. A strong thesis statement takes a debatable stance. Don’t merely state a fact.

For instance, instead of saying, “ Social media affects our lives,” you could go with something stronger like, “Social media’s role in spreading misinformation poses a serious threat to democratic processes and should be more strictly regulated.” This version is specific, makes a clear argument, and sets the stage for the rest of your essay.

When you’re crafting your thesis, ask yourself if someone could reasonably disagree with it. If the answer is yes, then you’ve got a solid foundation for a strong argumentative essay.

3. Develop your argument.

Here’s where you really get to make your case. Building a strong argument means using credible sources and logical reasoning to back up your claims. Let’s say you’re arguing that remote learning isn’t as effective as in-person classes. You could cite studies that show lower engagement or retention rates among online students.

But don’t just drop the evidence and move on. Explain how it supports your thesis. You might write, “A 2022 study by Smith found that students in remote learning environments scored 15% lower on exams compared to their in-class peers, highlighting the challenges of staying focused and motivated in a virtual setting.”

Your argument should also flow logically from one point to the next, guiding your reader through your reasoning step by step. Using transitional phrases like “Furthermore,” “In contrast,” or “Therefore” helps connect your ideas and keeps the essay moving smoothly.

4. Address counterarguments.

No good argumentative essay is complete without tackling counterarguments. Addressing opposing views shows you’ve thought about the issue from all angles, which boosts your credibility. You need to understand these counterarguments and then present evidence that challenges or disproves them.

Let’s say you’re arguing for stricter social media regulations. You’d probably come across the counterargument that these regulations could infringe on free speech. To refute this, you could point to real-world cases where unchecked misinformation has caused harm, like how false information about COVID-19 vaccines led to widespread hesitancy and public health risks.

You might phrase it like this: “While some argue that regulating social media could limit free speech, the COVID-19 pandemic has shown us that unchecked misinformation can lead to serious public health crises, which makes a strong case for more oversight.”

5. Conclude your essay.

The conclusion of your argumentative essays is your last shot to reinforce your stance on the chosen topics and ensure they resonate with your readers. Start by summarizing your main points—without just repeating them word for word. This helps drive home your argument in a clear and concise way.

Then, restate your thesis, but tweak it to reflect the discussion you’ve had throughout your essay. If you started out arguing for stricter social media regulations, you might conclude with something like, “Given the powerful role misinformation plays in shaping public opinion, it’s crucial that social media platforms implement more stringent regulations to protect the integrity of democratic processes.”

Finally, leave your reader with a strong closing statement. This could be a call to action, a prediction, or a thought-provoking question that sticks with them. For instance, “As technology keeps evolving, how we balance freedom with regulation will shape the future of our digital society. The decisions we make today will echo for generations to come.”

A well-crafted conclusion does more than just wrap things up—it reinforces your argument, ensuring your reader walks away with a clear sense of where you stand.

Extra tip: Once you’ve got your essay polished, consider entering it in prestigious writing contests like the John Locke Institute Essay Competition , The Emerson Prize , or the National Scholastic Art & Writing Awards . These platforms give your work a chance to shine.

What is a great topic for an argumentative essay?

A great topic for an argumentative essay hits three key points: it’s relevant, debatable, and lets you dig deep into the issue. Instead of going for something too subjective like “Is pizza delicious?”—which doesn’t really leave much room for argument—try something more specific and impactful, like “Should schools replace traditional lunch options like pizza with healthier alternatives?”

What are unique argumentative essay topics?

Unique argumentative essay topics take you off the beaten path and get you thinking in new directions. These topics might explore less common areas or bring fresh perspectives to current issues. For example:

• Should AI be allowed to make ethical decisions in healthcare?
• Is it ethical to use facial recognition technology in public spaces?
• Should digital currencies replace traditional money?

These questions stand out because they push you to challenge conventional thinking and dive into modern debates that are still evolving.

What are fun argumentative essay topics?

Fun argumentative essay topics are all about keeping things light and engaging, with a dash of humor or an unconventional twist. Think of topics like:

• Should pineapple be an acceptable pizza topping?
• Is it better to have a pet dog or a pet cat?
• Should video games be considered a sport?

These topics are meant to be enjoyable, sparking lively debates while still offering some substance.

What are cause and effect essay topics?

Cause and effect essay topics focus on the “why” and “what happens next” of a situation, and explores the relationship between events or phenomena. Examples include:

• How does social media use affect mental health in teenagers?
• What are the effects of climate change on global food production?
• How does the rise of remote work affect urban development?

These topics require you to break down why something happens and explore its consequences, giving you plenty of material for a detailed discussion.

What are good argumentative essay topics for college students?

Good argumentative essay topics for college students tackle issues that are relevant to their lives, both academically and personally. Consider topics like:

• Is the rising cost of college tuition justified?
• Should college athletes be paid for playing sports?
• Is remote learning as effective as in-person classes?

These topics resonate with the college experience, making them both relatable and significant for in-depth exploration.

When it comes to writing good argumentative essay topics, here’s what you need to keep in mind:

• Your essay’s strength starts with a good topic. It needs to be current and relevant, with plenty of room for different viewpoints. That’s what makes it ripe for deep discussion.
• Your thesis is the backbone of your essay. Make it clear, concise, and debatable. This is what guides your entire argument.
• Back up your thesis with solid evidence and clear reasoning. Each point should build logically on the one before it, keeping your argument tight and coherent.
• If you’re working on a college essay, it might be worth reaching out to a college admissions consultant . They can help you refine your topic and sharpen your argument, giving you the best shot at success.

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Outstanding Topics for Argumentative Essay

Students think that argumentative essay writing appears to be a very tough feat without proper support and guidance. A majority of the argumentative essay topics look lengthy and cumbersome. Without awareness about the intricacies and particularities involves in this particular type of work, you too will feel lost in a maze of ideas. Lots of skills are involved in the arguments: having or coming up with a claim, analyzing the pros and cons, defending your argument through critical thought, reasoning and convincing skills, proof, taking into accounts both sides of the dispute, and reaching a conclusion. If you are aware of what you have to do, writing on argument essay topics becomes easy.

What Is A Good Argumentative Essay Topic?

Many a student wonders what is a good argumentative essay topic to work with, what does a  well structured essay  looks like, etc.? Well, it’s not that big of a deal. There are lots of good argumentative essay topics to choose from, but you have to pick one which you can easily write an essay on.

Easy Argumentative Essay Topics

Want to know what happens to be some good argumentative essay topics to pen an essay on? Let’s see:

• Fast food is making America fat.
• Parents need to be very friendly with their kids.
• Are smartphones harmful to our health?
• Education needs to be free for all.
• Is single-sex education still a good idea in 2020?
• Should all people pursue a university degree worldwide?
• Internet access must be unlimited and free.
• Modern education has to eliminate grading systems.
• Capitalism should acquire more socially-significant policies.
• Tourist tax is mandatory to save cultural heritage.
• Kindergartens must introduce foreign language instruction.
• Is hunting good for environmental well-being?
• Using animals for research must be banned.
• One’s physical attributes have implications on the occupation.
• Women perform better than men on the official positions and occupations.

Argument Essay Topics by Education Level

Ideas for argumentative essay writing have greater variety, and they are given in relation to their suitability to different education levels.

Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle School

Following are some examples for middle school:

• Should parents let kids use the internet unsupervised?
• Are video games making kids smarter or are they affecting their attention spans?
• Should schools abolish homework? Give reasons to support your answer.
• Is bullying a serious problem?
• Must school cafeterias provide students with healthy lunches?
• Homeschoolers are diligent and hard working.
• Should video games be regulated at school?
• Soccer is the most resource-demanding sport.
• 9. Video games are beneficial but not harmful.
• The world will be a better place if we protect the environment.
• Physical activities as the most convenient way to relax.
• The best way to enhance education is to decrease the number of classes.
• Sports classes should become mandatory for everybody.
• The pros of using gadgets for studying purposes.
• Should tattoos be perceived as a social deviation?
• Dieting must not be practiced by schoolers.

Argumentative Essay Topics for College

Argumentative essay topics for college students to help them discuss things they feel deeply about and defend or condemn.  Appropriate writing argumentative essay topics are:

• Do paparazzi have the right to pursue celebrities?
• It’s okay to date multiple people at the same time.
• Standardized testing is the best way to judge your potential.
• The college admission process is competitive.
• The legal age of drinking should be lower.
• It’s best for students not to have the opportunity to choose courses.
• A gap year should be popularized before entering an educational institution.
• The primary mission of a college is to prepare yourself to the workforce.
• College athletes should pass the classes similarly to regular students.
• To encourage integrity, any student caught cheating should be immediately dismissed.
• Students should not be penalized for bad performance.
• College admission procedures must become more transparent and easily trackable.
• Is student loan truly a financial burden for the rest of life?
• Single-sex schools are sexist and old-fashioned.
• Students should receive governmental assistance.

Argumentative Essay Topics for High School

These argument topics give high school students a great chance to develop their views and present them:

• School proms are disappointing. Do you agree or disagree?
• Studying arts and music is very important. Argue in favor or against.
• Teens commit suicide due to pressure to get good grades.
• Should parents lay down curfew hours or not?
• Schools should impose stricter rules concerning food.
• Schoolers spend too much time in front of their cellphones.
• Cheerleading shouldn’t be considered a sport.
• Private schools are not obligatory better than ordinary ones.
• School uniform should be introduced in all public schools.
• Students are becoming less religious with each generation.
• High schools often disregard one’s potential due to bureaucracy.
• The optimal size for a class is ten schoolers.
• Do high schoolers truly know the history of their state?
• Schools are backpedaling in adapting new technologies within the in-class setting.

Controversial Argumentative Essay Topics By Subject

There are five types of claims in which an argument can be placed. Each claim is being elaborated through an example topic:

A claim of definition: What is euthanasia? A claim of cause: What causes it? A claim of value: What are its moral implications? A claim of policy: Should there be laws on it? A claim of fact: What’s the statistical ratio of people going for it?

Medical Argumentative Essay Topics

Here are a few medical ideas you can use for your write-up:

• Do people need greater cancer awareness? Why?
• Abortion is a woman’s right over her body. Do you agree?
• Should there be a moral judgment around euthanasia?
• Cannabis should be prescribed as painkiller freely.
• Generics should be barred by the FDA.
• Everyone has a moral responsibility to donate blood.
• HIV is falsely associated with homosexuals. Why?
• The birth control pills must be closely regulated to ensure consumer’s safety.
• Strain injuries are the logical consequences of personal computer use.
• Dentistry insurance should become equally distributed.
• Effective medicines are not always those from the advertisements.
• Workplaces should provide more sick leaves to the employees.
• Everybody should be taxed to contribute to medical research.
• The primary reason for all health-related problems is lifestyle.
• Why are the laws neglect prohibiting tobacco and alcohol?

Music Essay Topics

These essay topics related to music can lead you to find a topic for argumentative essay:

• Blues make us feel depressed.
• Music is a therapy that can be used for illness.
• Music should be played in an examination room to help students focus better.
• Distribution of music should be free.
• Music preferences reflect personality.
• Are Musical skills the result of talent or hard work?
• The best way to learn music is to enroll in a specialized music course.
• Why should music become mandatory in a college education?
• How many of those talented musicians remained unnoticed?
• Music has psychological implications, which should be studied more thoroughly.
• The best way to play music is to create a band.
• Music benefits one’s social life. How?
• May music change customer’s consumer preferences?
• The music industry should not be associated with music as a form of art.
• Most of the modern-time artists are the one-hit wonders.

Sports Essay Topics

Let’s see a few hot sport-related issues to work on:

• Cheerleading should be banned.
• Boxing is a dangerous sport.
• Students who are athletes don’t have to take exams.
• Should athletes be allowed to use steroids?
• Women in sports – are they as good as men?
• The best way to succeed in sports is to be born talented.
• Racial differences play a considerable role in professional sports. Why?
• Why should everybody try swimming?
• Might sport become the next universal language worldwide?
• The reasons to perceive coaches less professional than players.
• The most hailed sports players aren’t necessarily the best.
• Big money is something that ruins the sport’s competitive essence.
• Fans should not judge players after losses or failures.
• Why are sportspeople more social and proactive?
• The pros and cons of sports as a key to positive self-esteem.

American History

You need to have background knowledge for dealing with an American history topic like the ones underneath:

• America’s Foreign policy over the years: Strengths and weaknesses.
• Who has been the best American president and why?
• Landing on the moon. Did it happen or not?
• How slavery impacted America.
• The Vietnam War and its impact.
• Cold War wasn’t solely the victory of the US.
• American policies towards indigenous populations were justified: true or false?
• How the discourse of the American Revolution impacted the French Revolution?
• Woodrow Wilson as the greatest American politician.
• In what ways industrialization boosted urbanization?
• The state borders: Reasons for being disputed.
• Why New York City developed most significantly over time?
• Awareness became the reason for the construction of the national parks in the US.
• Was the American involvement in the Korean War necessary?
• The union workers gave the rise of similar movements across the globe: true or false?

Psychology topics are interesting and allow for a decent well-grounded piece. Here are some suggestions for your paper:

• Parents are responsible for their kids’ mental health
• Stress is good as it makes us perform better.
• Divorce doesn’t impact children.
• Anorexia can be overcome through will power.
• Punishment is useful for raising obedient kids.
• Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs should be revised in the 21st century.
• Personality tests are harmful and impractical.
• Traumatic events should be vividly discussed, but not concealed.
• Lying is natural and widespread. Why?
• Optimism may be good for your health.
• Should psychology be regarded as a scientific discipline?
• How to treat cognitive disorders?
• The tensest psychological issues in modern psychology.
• How to know that’s the right time to study psychology.
• Sleeping disorders: Health issue or individual problem?

Choose Your Topic About Animals

Care for animals and their right? See the following:

• It’s ok to test cosmetics on animals.
• Slaughtering animals as a sacrifice is barbaric.
• Endangered animals don’t need to be saved.
• Hunting is a good hobby.
• Keeping animals encaged in zoos is cruel.
• People shouldn’t use exotic animals as pets.
• The best way is to adopt, not to buy.
• Circuses must be eliminated without any exceptions.
• The best sign of love for an animal is patience.
• Zoos remind concentration camps, but for animals. Why?
• The reasons for having an animal.
• How may animals improve your mood and health?
• People who love animals are generally kinder and more optimistic. Is it true?
• Allergy to animals is a valid reason for not having one.
• Animals should have their identity cards and passports worldwide.

Immigration

Immigration argument topics are an area with room for debate. See a few ideas:

• Immigrants shouldn’t be given citizenship.
• Building a wall on the border is a great idea.
• Immigrants are stealing our jobs.
• Immigration policies are unfair to US citizens.
• Immigrants resist getting assimilated in the culture of their adopted country.
• Trump’s Wall: Inadequate announcement or a feasible policy?
• High-qualified immigrants should be given citizenship.
• Multiculturalism may change public attitude to immigration as a whole.
• What are the reasons for the US of having such a prolonged and troublesome history over immigration?
• Illegal immigration is still decent for the host state’s economy.
• Asylum seekers shouldn’t be associated with immigrants.
• When will the world have open borders? Is it possible?
• Immigration policies are impossible to be designed in a way to satisfy everybody. Why?
• Immigration is a crucial reason for the demographic boom.
• Why should immigration be even more strictly regulated?

These technology-related ideas are based on contemporary issues:

• Online activism is enough to show one’s involvement.
• It’s impossible to survive with smartphones anymore.
• Trolling others is an innocent action.
• Facebook and Instagram make people feel lonely?
• AI will eventually become superior to human intelligence.
• Technology is capable of draining one’s life energy. How?
• Social networks are best established online.
• The drive for technology is a road to progress. Why?
• Modern technologies are capable of erasing cultural distinctions.
• Technology eventually makes people less creative and imaginative.
• How electronic devices impact the human body?
• Are children becoming more socialized while using gadgets?
• Is a life without modern technology possible?
• Technologies are best utilized if used meaningfully.
• How the Internet changed the world once and forever?

Pick Out Argumentative Philosophy Essay Topic

The following philosophy statements can be debated upon:

• Are religion and philosophy opposed to each other?
• Human beings are evil by nature.
• Happiness stems from money.
• Does having a conscience increases life’s burdens?
• Is beauty indeed in the eye of the beholder?
• What is the true purpose of our existence?
• Philosophy is falsely considered to be the first of the sciences.
• Most of the classic philosophers’ ideas are irrelevant now.
• Is ageism a real thing? How should it be eliminated?
• Is morality essential to humans? Why?
• Should philosophy be perceived as the ancestor of religion?
• Might atheism be logically considered a belief?
• Should philosophers be regarded as the contemporary masterminds?
• Is morality more related to one’s character or education?
• Should patriotism be associated with virtue?
• Why is philosophy a next-level discipline?

A few science issues you can write actively on are:

• Burning fossil fuels is bad for the environment.
• Should we monitor our carbon footprint?
• Genetic engineering can help in the creation of designer babies.
• Cloning is for the good of the human race.
• Oil drilling should be banned.
• Can wars be won merely by bombing?
• Environmental concerns are hard to justify.
• Do vaccines really cause autism and related health issues?
• What’s the reason to backpedal cloning?
• What alternative sources of energy should be developed?
• How may genetic engineering contribute to the emergence of more advanced humans?
• The best way to cope with global warming is to track one’s activities.
• Lifestyle details and nuances are the natural consequence of the DNA code.
• How long will it take to introduce the language of coding as a universal one?
• What are the drawbacks of using artificial intelligence?

Fun and Interesting Argumentative Essay Topics In 2020

Following are a few interesting argumentative essay topics:

• Books are not the only things that give us knowledge.
• Why every student should give nootropics a try.
• What does free speech really mean?
• Why studying at night is the best way to study?
• Should your parents be on the contact list of your social media account?
• Why so many people tend using dating services such as Tinder?
• Blondes are not stupid at all. Are they?
• What’s the point of televising poker as a sport?
• What you consider as humor, one may regard as a bad taste.
• Don’t take your life too seriously; it will end after all.
• The best way to get more Valentine Cards is to be more social.
• Before Instagram, people shared real-life photo cards. What was so romantic about that?
• How auto-correct may ruin your career?
• Never start anything on Monday. You will ultimately fail.
• Men tend to gossip more than women.

Didn’t find an appropriate topic? Learn more about  persuasive topics for an essay .

A Few Words About Argumentative Essay Structure

One of the best ways to cope with an argumentative essay is to get acquainted with a common structure of such a task. If given a choice to be more flexible with an  argument essay structure , try using the following pattern in your essay topics:

• Start with the Introduction, which will shed light on the subject matter.
• Craft a thesis statement where you favor one position over another by listing the arguments.
• The mentioned arguments will become your body paragraphs. The claims and counterclaims will be included there to represent the controversial essence of the matter.
• Conclude with a convincing recap of what idea you maintained and supported throughout the essay. Also, don’t forget to make your writing persuasive and backed-up with decent sources.

Claim Of Policy

The claim of policy essay generally focuses on illustrating why certain circumstances should exist. Read on to get acquainted with the best claim of policy essay topics:

• Why should prisoners be allowed to vote?
• What is required to ensure just elections?
• Gun carry should be allowed only with an appropriate license.
• What might be needed to impose a new public policy?
• In what ways do media sources blur the image of the reality?
• How should the state cope with increasing crime rates?
• The best solution to crime is the decriminalization of most regulations.
• States should initiate armed conflicts when other states pose considerable threats.
• The electoral college doesn’t work properly. Why?
• The main practices of political compromise may hurt ordinary individuals. How?
• National policies may increase citizens’ welfare if they’re properly designed.
• The only reason to impose anti-immigration laws is to enhance national security.
• What’s the main condition of a proper territorial administration?
• How to overcome the national debt threat? In what ways its extent is terrific?
• The best precaution of the long-run economic growth is the stability of the state’s economic sectors.

Pros And Cons Topics

Pros and cons essays are best for assessing the positives and negatives of a certain condition, which may be best for controversial matters. The best pros and cons essays, as follows:

• Pros and Cons of social media use
• Pros and Cons of having an extended family.
• Pros and Cons of moving abroad.
• Pros and Cons of animal testing.
• Pros and Cons of abortions.
• Pros and Cons of vaccines for kids.
• Pros and Cons of medical marijuana.
• Pros and Cons of the Olympics.
• Pros and Cons of the universal basic income.
• Pros and Cons of the concealed handguns.
• Pros and Cons of gun control.
• Pros and Cons of the school uniforms.
• Pros and Cons of the vegetarianism.
• Pros and Cons of school vouchers.
• Pros and Cons of free college access.

Tips for Writing An Argumentative Essay

A few handy tips to ace your write-up:

• Write from your heart.
• Your topic needs to have two sides or a scope to be debated upon.
• Preset both the sides of the argument before supporting one.
• Support your position through substantiation.
• Don’t summarize or paraphrase things.

If given a choice, try to go for a topic for argumentative essay that you feel deeply about.  Convey your feelings in your writing in different  types of academic essays . When you have a unique topic, research it, collect evidence, develop an emphatic stance and attempt to defend it in front of the reader. Tell your readers why you are right!

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278 Pros and Cons Essay Topics & Ideas

• Icon Calendar 18 May 2024
• Icon Page 2289 words
• Icon Clock 11 min read

Pros and cons essay topics offer an opportunity to analyze multiple aspects of a subject, weighing both positive and negative elements. They promote critical thinking, compelling the writer to delve into complex issues, presenting diverse viewpoints, and fostering a balanced argument. These themes can touch diverse fields, such as technology, social issues, politics, or the environment. However, the challenge lies in presenting a balanced perspective, not swaying too much on one side. It may become difficult if one’s personal bias toward a subject is obvious. Additionally, these topics often involve controversial issues, which require in-depth research to provide accurate, comprehensive information. The key to handling pros and cons essay topics successfully is an unbiased perspective, thorough research, and a well-structured argument.

Best Pros and Cons Topics

• Remote Learning in the Modern Age
• Genetic Modification: A Revolution in Agriculture
• Ethical Implications of Animal Testing
• Universal Basic Income: Solution to Poverty?
• Veganism: An Ethical and Healthful Choice?
• Nuclear Power: Energy Savior or Environmental Hazard?
• Cryptocurrency: Future of Finance or Speculative Bubble?
• Gun Control: Safety Measure or Infringement on Rights?
• Mandatory Vaccinations: Public Health Necessity or Personal Freedom Invasion?
• Internet Censorship: Protection or Restriction of Freedom?
• Autonomous Vehicles: Road Safety Improvement or Risk?
• Corporal Punishment: Effective Discipline or Child Abuse?
• Climate Change Mitigation: Economic Burden or Investment?
• Capital Punishment: Deterrent to Crime or Inhumane Practice?
• Cloning: Medical Breakthrough or Ethical Nightmare?
• Reality Television: Harmless Entertainment or Negative Influence?
• Artificial Intelligence: Economic Boon or Job Threat?
• Space Exploration: Worth the Investment or Financial Drain?
• Zoos: Education and Conservation Centers or Animal Prisons?
• Euthanasia: Mercy or Murder?
• Renewable Energy: Sustainable Solution or Unreliable Source?
• Youth Sports: Character Building or Too Competitive?
• Biometric Technology: Security Improvement or Privacy Erosion?
• Alternative Medicine: Healthful Practice or Pseudoscience?

Easy Pros and Cons Topics

• Homeschooling: Alternative Education or Socialization Hinderance?
• Plastic Surgery: Confidence Booster or Health Risk?
• Trade Unions: Workers’ Rights Protector or Economic Hindrance?
• Multilingual Education: Cultural Richness or Confusion?
• Immigration: Economic Growth Engine or Job Competition?
• Video Games: Skill Development or Violence Promoter?
• Social Media: Connectivity or Privacy Invasion?
• Caffeine Consumption: Health Benefit or Risk?
• Genetically Modified Foods: Solution to Hunger or Health Hazard?
• Nuclear Disarmament: Path to Peace or Security Risk?
• Surveillance Cameras: Safety Ensurer or Privacy Invader?
• Drone Technology: Efficiency Improvement or Privacy Threat?
• Mass Tourism: Economic Driver or Environmental Degrader?
• Offshore Drilling: Energy Solution or Environmental Danger?
• Celebrity Culture: Inspiration or Distraction?
• Fast Food Consumption: Convenience or Health Risk?
• Mobile Phones in Schools: Learning Tool or Distraction?
• Online Privacy: Safety or Surveillance?
• Organic Farming: Sustainable Practice or Luxury Expense?
• Hydroelectric Power: Renewable Energy or Ecosystem Disrupter?
• Deforestation: Economic Development or Biodiversity Threat?
• Animal Agriculture: Food Supply or Environmental Stressor?

Interesting Pros and Cons Topics

• Telecommuting: Work-Life Balance or Productivity Killer?
• Body Cameras on Police: Accountability Tool or Privacy Invasion?
• Online Shopping: Convenience or Traditional Retail Killer?
• Single-Gender Schools: Focused Education or Gender Stereotype Reinforcement?
• Electronic Voting: Democratic Enhancement or Security Risk?
• Free Trade Agreements: Economic Boom or Job Loss?
• Junk Food Tax: Health Initiative or Personal Freedom Infringement?
• Streaming Services: Entertainment Evolution or Traditional Media Death?
• Facial Recognition: Security Tool or Privacy Violation?
• Forest Conservation: Biodiversity Savior or Development Constraint?
• Solar Power: Sustainable Energy or Landscape Disruption?
• Drones for Delivery: Efficiency or Public Safety Hazard?
• Reality Augmentation: Technological Breakthrough or Reality Detachment?
• Fracking: Energy Solution or Environmental Hazard?
• Human Microchipping: Security Enhancement or Privacy Infringement?
• Reproductive Cloning: Medical Miracle or Ethical Minefield?
• Animal Fur in Fashion: Luxury or Cruelty?
• Homework: Academic Advantage or Unnecessary Stress?
• Fossil Fuel Dependency: Economic Necessity or Environmental Crisis?
• Carbon Capture Technology: Climate Change Solution or Greenwashing?
• Fast Fashion: Affordability or Environmental Impact?
• Legalizing Marijuana: Medical Breakthrough or Gateway Drug?
• Robot Workers: Efficiency Booster or Job Eliminator?

Pros and Cons Essay Topics for High School

• Implementation of School Uniforms: Benefits and Drawbacks
• The Influence of Social Media on Teenagers: Positive and Negative Aspects
• Incorporation of Technology in Education: Pros and Cons
• Standardized Testing: Advantages and Disadvantages
• Banning Junk Food in Schools: Right or Wrong?
• Single-Sex Education vs. Co-Education: A Comparative Analysis
• Homework Assignments: Necessary Practice or Unnecessary Pressure?
• Impacts of Extracurricular Activities on Students’ Life: Pros and Cons
• Online Classes vs. Traditional Classes: An Examination of Merits and Demerits
• School Hours Extension: Beneficial or Detrimental?
• Year-Round Schooling: A Review of Pros and Cons
• Learning Foreign Languages in School: Advantages and Disadvantages
• The Role of Sports in Schools: Positive and Negative Implications
• Integration of Arts Education: Pros and Cons
• Usage of Mobile Devices in Class: Boon or Bane?
• Compulsory Community Service for Students: Justified or Not?
• Early College Admission Programs: Assessing the Benefits and Risks
• Corporal Punishment in Schools: A Balanced Debate
• Privatization of Education: Pros and Cons
• Distance Learning: A Comprehensive Pros and Cons Analysis
• Sex Education in Schools: Critical Examination of Advantages and Disadvantages
• Parental Involvement in School Activities: Positive and Negative Aspects
• Academic Grading System: A Review of Its Merits and Demerits
• Inclusion of Meditation and Yoga in School Curriculum: Pros and Cons
• Mandatory Attendance Policies: An Examination of Benefits and Drawbacks

Pros and Cons Essay Topics for Middle School

• Incorporation of Life Skills Education in Curriculum: A Debate
• Boarding Schools vs. Day Schools: A Comparative Analysis
• Personalized Learning: Merits and Demerits
• Strict Dress Code Policies: A Balanced Argument
• Providing Student Counselling in Schools: Weighing the Pros and Cons
• Coed Sports in Schools: A Discussion of Benefits and Challenges
• Multicultural Education: Examining the Positives and Negatives
• Introduction of Philosophy Classes in High School: Pros and Cons
• Group Work in School Assignments: A Review of Advantages and Disadvantages
• Advancement of STEM Education: Weighing Its Merits and Demerits
• School Cafeterias: An Analysis of Health and Convenience Aspects
• Teaching Critical Thinking in Schools: A Balanced Examination
• School Field Trips: Weighing Educational Value and Risks
• Bilingual Education: A Comprehensive Pros and Cons Analysis
• Animal Dissection in Biology Class: Ethical Considerations and Practical Benefits
• Dual Enrollment Classes: Weighing Academic Benefits and Challenges
• Censorship of Books in School Libraries: A Balanced Argument
• Use of Artificial Intelligence in Education: A Comprehensive Analysis
• Adoption of Zero Tolerance Policies in Schools: A Debate
• Healthy Eating Programs in Schools: Pros and Cons
• Teacher Tenure: An Examination of Its Benefits and Drawbacks
• Climate Change Education: The Importance and Challenges in Schools
• Cyberbullying: Understanding Its Impacts and Ways to Mitigate
• School Security Measures: Weighing Safety and Freedom
• Influence of Video Games on Students: A Discussion on Advantages and Disadvantages

Pros and Cons Essay Topics for College Students

• Adoption of Artificial Intelligence in Everyday Life
• Online Learning vs. Traditional Classroom Instruction
• Use of Cryptocurrencies as a Primary Form of Exchange
• Introduction of Universal Basic Income in Developed Nations
• Implication of Driverless Cars on Traffic Management and Safety
• Consumption of Genetically Modified Foods and Health Outcomes
• Exploration of Space as a Priority for Modern Society
• Legalization of Medical Marijuana for Pain Management
• Impacts of Social Media on Interpersonal Communication
• Roles of Animal Testing in Biomedical Research
• Significance of Nuclear Energy in the Global Energy Mix
• Influence of Violent Video Games on Youth Behavior
• Efficacy of School Uniforms in Promoting Discipline and Equality
• Relevance of Single-Gender Schools in Contemporary Education
• Adoption of Veganism for the Health and Environment
• Deregulation of the Energy Market: Benefits and Drawbacks
• Value of Mandatory Military Service in Modern Democracies
• Practice of Telecommuting in Post-Pandemic Times
• Use of Drones in Delivery and Surveillance Services
• Importance of Privacy in the Age of Big Data
• Effects of Multilingualism on Cognitive Development
• Application of Genetic Engineering in Human Health
• Debate on Climate Change and Global Warming Policies
• Advantages and Disadvantages of Open Office Spaces

Pros and Cons Essay Topics for University

• Impacts of Homeschooling on Children’s Social Skills
• Roles of Religion in Public Schools
• Potential of 3D Printing in Manufacturing Industries
• Influence of Celebrity Culture on Youth Identity Formation
• Use of Performance-Enhancing Drugs in Professional Sports
• Prospects of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles in Decarbonization
• Responsibility of Developed Countries in Climate Change Mitigation
• Evaluation of Renewable Energy Subsidies for Energy Transition
• Influence of Parenting Styles on Child Development
• Adoption of Facial Recognition Technology in Law Enforcement
• Question of Human Cloning: Ethical Implications
• Roles of Internet Censorship in Protecting National Security
• Effects of Mass Tourism on Local Cultures
• Impacts of Fast Fashion on the Environment
• Application of Nanotechnology in Medicine
• Importance of Liberal Arts Education in a Technological Society
• Effects of Mandatory Voting on Democratic Participation
• Impacts of Music Therapy on Mental Health
• Influence of Body Cameras on Police Accountability
• Pros and Cons of Full-Time Employment vs. Freelancing
• Role of Animal Zoos in Wildlife Conservation
• Application of Blockchain Technology Beyond Cryptocurrencies
• Debate on Genetically Modified Babies for Disease Prevention
• Consideration of Eco-Tourism as a Sustainable Travel Alternative

Pro and Con Debate Topics

• Space Tourism: Exciting Frontier or Elitist Extravagance?
• Universal Healthcare: Basic Human Right or Economic Burden?
• Polar Tourism: Adventure or Environmental Threat?
• eSports: Athletic Recognition or Sedentary Lifestyle Promoter?
• Online Dating: Convenient Connection or Relationship Ruin?
• Zero-Waste Lifestyle: Sustainable Practice or Unrealistic Expectation?
• Artificial Photosynthesis: Energy Breakthrough or Technological Hurdle?
• Underwater Cities: Innovative Living or Ecological Disaster?
• Job Automation: Efficiency Gain or Workforce Threat?
• Wildlife Trafficking: Economic Opportunity or Conservation Crisis?
• Gender-Neutral Parenting: Equality Promoter or Identity Confusion?
• Food Waste: Resource Mismanagement or Consumer Habit?
• Carbon Offsetting: Climate Solution or Responsibility Shift?
• Genetic Privacy: Personal Protection or Research Obstacle?
• Cashless Society: Convenience or Privacy Threat?
• Aging Population: Burden or Wisdom Source?
• Digital Learning Tools: Learning Enhancer or Traditional Teaching Underminer?
• Designer Babies: Medical Miracle or Ethical Disaster?
• Intellectual Property Rights: Innovation Protection or Monopolization?
• Digital Currency: Economic Revolution or Financial Instability?

Controversial Pro and Con Topics

• Mandatory Vaccination: Pros and Cons
• Legalization of Recreational Drugs: Benefits and Drawbacks
• Nuclear Energy: Advantages and Disadvantages
• Animal Testing in Medical Research: Arguments For and Against
• Capital Punishment: Exploring the Upsides and Downsides
• Adoption of Universal Basic Income: Prospects and Challenges
• Internet Censorship: Freedom vs. Safety
• Gene Editing Technology: Ethical Implications
• Driverless Cars: A Technological Breakthrough or Risky Innovation
• Homeschooling: Assessing Its Strengths and Weaknesses
• Protesting Rights: Balancing Freedom and Public Safety
• Concealed Firearms: Public Protection or Public Threat?
• Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs): Feeding the World or Damaging the Environment
• Surveillance Technology: Safeguarding or Invading Privacy
• Social Media Influence: Connectivity or Toxicity
• Animal Rights vs. Human Needs: A Delicate Balance
• School Uniforms: Promoting Equality or Suppressing Individuality
• Euthanasia: Compassionate Response or Moral Dilemma
• Outsourcing Jobs: Boost for Global Economy or Local Unemployment Trigger
• Veganism: Healthy Lifestyle or Nutritional Risk
• Fracking: Energy Solution or Environmental Hazard
• Polygamy: Cultural Practice or Human Rights Violation
• Deforestation: Economic Gain vs. Environmental Loss
• Human Cloning: Scientific Progress or Ethical Nightmare
• Space Colonization: Next Frontier or Dangerous Fantasy

Pros and Cons Ideas

• Wind Power: Renewable Solution or Noise Pollution?
• Animal Rights in Entertainment: Fun Show or Unethical Practice?
• Artificial Meat: Sustainability Savior or Health Concern?
• Screen Time for Children: Educational Tool or Developmental Hindrance?
• GMO Labeling: Consumer Right or Unnecessary Panic?
• Public Surveillance: Crime Deterrent or Freedom Infringement?
• Trophy Hunting: Conservation Strategy or Cruelty?
• Quantum Computing: Technological Revolution or Security Threat?
• Prescription Drug Advertising: Informed Choice or Misleading Practice?
• Assisted Suicide: Compassionate Care or Ethical Dilemma?
• Nuclear Family Structure: Social Stability or Outdated Model?
• Paper Books vs. E-Books: Tradition or Technology?
• Colonizing Mars: Human Achievement or Unnecessary Distraction?
• Performance Enhancing Drugs: Fair Advantage or Cheating?
• Modern Art: Creative Expression or Financial Speculation?
• Professional Gaming: Career Opportunity or Unhealthy Lifestyle?
• Beauty Pageants: Self-Expression or Objectification?
• Child Labor: Economic Necessity or Human Rights Violation?
• Overtourism: Economic Prosperity or Cultural Erosion?
• Multiculturalism: Social Enrichment or Integration Challenge?
• Invasive Species: Ecological Threat or Biodiversity Booster?

Pro and Con Paper Topics

• Extreme Sports: Thrill or Danger?
• Lifelong Learning: Personal Growth or Economic Necessity?
• Paying College Athletes: Fair Compensation or Amateur Spirit Ruin?
• Self-Driving Cars: Traffic Solution or Safety Issue?
• Artificial Wombs: Medical Advancement or Ethical Quandary?
• Violent Media: Artistic Freedom or Social Malady?
• Helicopter Parenting: Child Safety or Overprotection?
• Cybersecurity Measures: Essential Safeguard or Privacy Intrusion?
• Holographic Technology: Futuristic Communication or Privacy Concern?
• Virtual Reality: Exciting Innovation or Isolation Enhancer?
• Hyperloop Travel: Transportation Revolution or Pipe Dream?
• Geoengineering: Climate Savior or Ecological Risk?
• Population Control: Sustainable Solution or Human Rights Violation?
• Nanotechnology: Revolutionary Science or Unpredictable Threat?
• Bioplastics: Environmental Solution or Greenwashing?
• Internet of Things: Connected Convenience or Surveillance Nightmare?
• 3D Printing: Manufacturing Revolution or Intellectual Property Nightmare?
• Digital Nomad Lifestyle: Freedom or Isolation?
• Dark Tourism: Educational Experience or Insensitive Practice?
• Autonomous Weapons: Military Efficiency or Ethical Disaster?

Pros and Cons Issues

• Telemedicine: Healthcare Accessibility or Patient Risk
• Labor Unions: Employee Advocacy or Business Hindrance
• Artificial Intelligence: Boosting Efficiency or Threatening Jobs
• Plastic Surgery: Cosmetic Enhancement or Health Risk
• Crypto-Currencies: Future of Finance or Bubble Waiting to Burst
• Assisted Reproduction: Miracle of Science or Ethical Quandary
• Multicultural Education: Promoting Diversity or Dividing Society
• Reality TV: Entertainment or Cultural Decay
• Extreme Sports: Thrilling Adventure or Unnecessary Risk
• Designer Babies: Genetic Customization or Ethical Issue
• Lobbying: Advocacy Tool or Unfair Influence
• Violent Video Games: Entertainment or Negative Influence
• Organic Farming: Sustainable Practice or Inefficient Production
• Renewable Energy: Long-Term Solution or Unrealistic Ideal
• Civil Disobedience: Necessary Protest or Legal Violation
• Zoos: Conservation Efforts or Animal Cruelty
• Performance Enhancing Drugs: Sporting Equality or Unfair Advantage
• Stem Cell Research: Medical Breakthrough or Ethical Dilemma
• Online Dating: Romantic Revolution or Relationship Ruin
• Corporate Social Responsibility: Ethical Practice or Marketing Gimmick
• Junk Food Taxation: Public Health Initiative or Personal Freedom Infringement
• Single-Gender Education: Enhanced Learning or Limited Socialization
• Offshore Drilling: Energy Opportunity or Environmental Threat
• Monarchy: Historical Heritage or Outdated System
• GMO Labeling: Consumer Right or Unnecessary Fearmongering

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50 Pros and Cons Essay Topics

What is the point of pros and cons essay topics? They help students understand what they would like to write about. Imagine that you got an assignment: your professor asked you to craft an essay where you evaluate an object along with its advantages and disadvantages. This would be a pros & cons type of task, and it’s represented by a set of different features. You might be concerned about how much research you’re going to need and when to find time for writing, but the truth is, selecting which pros and cons subjects to explore is one of the major factors affecting your success. If you make a wrong decision, then your research and efforts won’t pay off as well as they could have otherwise. This kind of essay is essential because it develops your analytical skills and teaches you to look into the depth of an object, underlining its weak and strong sides. We hope to assist you by making it clear why choice of topics plays such a major role in writing and where to find inspiration for it.

How to Choose Pro Con Essay Topics?

All students should follow some writing strategies when they start working on a new task. We’re going to outline four of them. Take a look and try to keep these things in mind. They usually apply in all situations, and with their help, you have more chances at writing a strong and engaging essay.

• Always make things interesting for yourself.  All topics could be made interesting, at least to an extent. If you were forced to take a topic from a professor-generated list, then it could be tough, but otherwise, you can always look for something that will trigger your honest interest. There are plenty of good pros and cons topics — all you need is take a dive into your own mind. Think about stuff that you’re invested in. Perhaps you’re an athlete passionate about swimming. Maybe you love cooking, prefer theater performances over movies, or love sea over the ocean. Why not write about this? It would be exciting for you, and if you feel interested in your topic, your writing is going to reflect it, so your readers will find enjoyment as well.
• Preserve your objectivity.  Some pro con paper topics are less fortunate than others. Try not to pick something that is obviously good or bad. For example, if you decided on exploring the benefits and cons unemployment has, the latter will clearly prevail, so you won’t be able to write a balanced essay. If you have passion for some topic, it might be great, but it could also hinder you from being objective. Assess your reactions and attitudes, and choose a theme you could build a fantastic essay on.
• Check if your ideas are supported.  Pro con topics could be controversial, which is something professors usually like, but you’re going to have to use sources for supporting your points. Don’t make statements that reality refutes. Even if you feel strongly about a topic, you should rely on facts, not emotions. So watch out for it and check whether there are enough articles or books that could be incorporated as you need it.
• Discuss.  Talk about your ideas with others. This could be a teacher — in most cases, they appreciate being consulted. Classmates are also a great bet: discuss your ideas together and brainstorm. Maybe you’ll find common inspiration. Talk with your friends or family members — they could offer you ideas you haven’t considered. Write about things you like, and you’ll learn to feel enjoyment during this process.

50 Useful Pro and Cons Topics

The list below has various suggestions you could use for your essay. We devised it so that you could find inspiration whenever you need it: just look through these 50 options and settle on the ones you like. Take them and write an essay on them or shift some ideas in the way you like before doing this. The choice is yours: we are here only for boosting your productivity.

Education Pros and Cons Essay Topics

In many ways, success depends on the education you receive. These pros and cons topics could let you argue against this point or in favor of it.

• Should Students Be Motivated to Receive Education in the US?
• Doing Homework: Is This a Good Idea?
• Prolonging Education by Getting a Master’s Degree: Waste of Time or Step Toward a Better Future?
• Moving into Campus: Good or Bad Decision?
• Sending Children to Preschool: Do They Really Need to Go There?
• Tuition Costing Money: What Are Advantages and Disadvantages of This Issue?
• Academic Grades As a Method for Evaluating Performance: Motivating or Discouraging?
• What Are the Perks and Drawbacks of Online Education?
• Taking Gap Year Before Entering College: Yes or No?
• Purpose of Application Essays and Degrees of Effectiveness

Health Pros and Cons Essay Ideas

Billions of people all over the world are terrified for their health right now. Choose a pro con topic that speaks to you most.

• Wearing Masks Outside: Pros & Cons
• Hospice: Place of Hope or Despair for Those Who Are Already Dying?
• Should Students Choose Nursing as Their Career?
• Pros & Cons of Studying at Medical University
• Is Personal Hygiene Really That Important?
• The Benefits & Dangers of Alternative Medicine
• Should People Who Want to Lose Weight Rely on Diets?
• Reasons for Getting or Not Getting Health Insurance in the US
• Going Vegan: Should Most People Do It?
• Safety & Dangers Presented By Modern Vaccines

Social Media and Technology Topics

Almost all of us have an account on one of social media platforms. These pro and con topics reflect this trend.

• What Are the Benefits and Dangers Posed By Online Dating?
• Discuss What Makes iPhones a Great & Terrible Choice
• Gaining Popularity on Social Platforms: A Curse or a Blessing?
• Using Facebook For Most Communication Needs
• Reading E-Books Instead of Physical Books: Did This Change Make People’s Lives Easier?
• Relying on Your Cell Phone: Why Is This Useful & What Dangers It Could Lead To
• Evolution of Technology: Did It Improve Our Lives or Made Them Unhealthier?
• Becoming a Technician: Is There a Point?
• Skype as a Way to Stay in Touch Visually No Matter the Distance: Pluses and Minuses
• Twitter as a Platform for Exchanging Crucial Info.

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History and Politics

Here’s an example of advantage and disadvantage topics related to historical & political aspects of our life.

• Was Trump a Good President for Americans?
• Was Obama’s Presidency a Good or Bad Thing for Other Countries?
• Different Wars from the perspective of the US: Who Got Rich & Poor?
• Monarchy as System of Government: Should It Be Applied More Often?
• Age Limit for Participating for President Position: Is It Necessary?
• Being a Queen That Rules an Entire Country: Too Much Trouble or Endless Pleasure?
• Civil Right Movements: Victories and Losses That Resulted From It
• Should Students Be Encouraged to Study Political Science In Colleges?
• Is There a Sense in Political Theories Or Are They All Meaningless?
• Communism as Structure Based on Equality: In What Way Does It Work in Reality?

Morality and Social Issues Pro and Cons Essays Topics

Morality could be seen as a simple area of discussions, but at the same time, it’s incredibly complex. These topics with pros and cons could push you in the right direction.

• Provision of Free Apartments for Homeless People: Is This a Viable Solution?
• Discuss if Death Penalty Should Be Applied in Violent Cases Where Guilt Is Proven Beyond Reasonable Doubt
• Living in a Third World Country: Positive & Negative Aspects
• Adopting Pets From Shelter: Is It Always a Better Choice?
• Having Children Despite Being Poor: Should It Be Done?
• Living with a Person You No Longer Love for the Sake of Children
• Giving Gifts to People You Do Not Care About: Is There a Point?
• Helping People Despite Not Being Well Off Yourself
• Being Brave Regardless of the Circumstances: Is It Noble or Stupid?
• Should Children Be Punished by Their Parents If They Misbehave?

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Argumentative Essay Guide

Argumentative Essay Topics

Last updated on: Dec 19, 2023

Argumentative Essay Topics - Compelling Ideas to Get Started

By: Jared P.

18 min read

Reviewed By: Melisa C.

Published on: Oct 22, 2019

Are you about to write an argumentative essay but still confused about the topic?

Argumentative essays help students learn more about the subject matter of a particular course. This kind of writing is a genuine key to learning argumentative skills. You must pay attention to your subject while choosing a strong topic for your essay.

But what if you don’t even know what to write about? 

Don’t worry! Here is a list of topics and tips to help you decide on the perfect topic for your argumentative paper. 

So read on and make choosing a topic easier!

On this Page

Argumentative Essay Topics for students

Argumentative essay writing is one common academic assignment that almost every student will get to draft. In order to help the students, we have prepared a list of argumentative topic ideas. Pick a topic that works the best for you.

Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle School

• What age is suitable for kids to start schooling?
• Should students be allowed to evaluate their teachers?
• Metal music should be banned due to its violent lyrics.
• What are the pros and cons of making friends virtually?
• Can we conserve energy as a society?
• Does playing violent video games contribute to making a person violent in real life too?
• How close is reality TV to real life?
• Do girls face more societal pressure than guys?
• What is the biggest challenge faced by students today?
• Should there be cash rewards for getting a good score on standardized tests?
• The rich should pay more taxes than the poor.
• Cartoons are better than movies.
• Teachers Vs. Parents: who plays a bigger role in shaping a child?

Argumentative Essay Topics for Grade 6 

Here are some argumentative essay topics for 6th-grade students:

• Should schools start later in the morning?
• Is confining wild animals within zoos a cruel practice?
• Should there be stricter laws for texting and driving?
• Are social media sites like Facebook and Twitter bad for our society?
• Should the voting age be lowered to allow young people a voice in democracy?
• Should the school year be longer or shorter? 
• Is it okay for children to play violent video games?
• Should cell phones be banned from schools?
• Should recycling become a mandatory practice in all households?

Argumentative Essay Topics for 7th Graders 

• Should schools provide free meals to all students?
• Are uniforms necessary for student success?
• Does standardized testing accurately measure student progress?
• Are after-school activities important for student development?
• Is there too much emphasis on social media in education today?
• Should schools place a stronger emphasis on physical education?
• Are required classes in high school helpful or harmful to students?
• Should all students have access to laptops and tablets in the classroom?
• Is technology taking away from traditional learning methods in the classroom?
• Should gym classes be mandatory for students?

Argumentative Essay Topics for Grade 8

Looking for argumentative essay topics for teenagers? Check out the ideas below: 

• Should the drinking age be lowered? Should the death penalty be abolished?
• Is it necessary for governments to fund childcare?
• Is there too much emphasis on standardized testing in schools?
• Are schools doing enough to prevent bullying from happening?
• Do adolescents need more sleep than adults?
• Should students be allowed to have cell phones in school?
• Is social media affecting the way we interact with each other?
• What should be done about the student loan crisis?

Argumentative Essay Topics for High School

• Is homeschooling better than the public school educational system?
• Smartphones help the learning process.
• Is co-education more advantageous than single-sex education?
• Are GMOs safe for human consumption?
• Is fast food healthy or a serious threat to physical health?
• Teenagers feel more comfortable talking on social media rather than face to face.
• Should it be legal to get a tattoo for kids younger than 18?
• Are standardized tests beneficial for school students?
• A negative high school experience you believe is important when it comes to personality.
• Does the education system prepare a student for the real world?
• Is there life after death?
• Our society works on gender equality.
• Subjects that should be removed from the high school program.
• Is hate crime growing in high school?

Argumentative Essay Topics for College Students

• Is the current taxation system effective or not?
• Are men paid more than women in our corporate sector?
• Should Shakespeare still be studied as part of the college curriculum?
• Is college tuition becoming way too expensive?
• Are test scores the only way to judge the competency of a student?
• Getting a College degree is worth the cost.
• Is the system of the electoral college still viable in the US?
• Youngsters on social networks don’t realize the significance of privacy on these online sites.
• Life is incomplete without faith.
• Students nowadays face greater social pressures compared to the past.
• Your past does not define you.
• What can be done about gun control in the United States?
• Is it ethical to genetically modify children to protect against diseases?
• Do we need more gender diversity in STEM programs?

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Argumentative Essay Topics for University Students 

• Should mental health services be made available for free?
• Is income inequality a necessary part of capitalism?
• Should the minimum wage be raised in all countries?
• Does technology have a positive or negative impact on mental health?
• Should universities be allowed to charge students for taking classes?
• Is it necessary for governments to fund space exploration?
• Should religion be taught in public schools?
• Are animal experiments necessary for medical progress?
• Should young students join a political party to enhance the democratic process?
• Does free speech help promote extremism in society?

Argumentative Essay Topics for O Levels 

• Should the government regulate the use of social media?
• Is the death penalty an effective way to prevent crime?
• Are online classes replacing traditional courses in schools?
• Do standardized tests accurately measure academic achievement?
• Should abortion be legalized in all countries?
• Do celebrity role models have a positive or negative influence on young people?
• Should school uniforms be mandatory in all schools?
• Should the Internet be censored by governments around the world?
• Should GMO foods be allowed in supermarkets?
• Does free trade help or harm developing economies?

Discover Captivating Topics in a Click!

Best Argumentative Essay Topics

Just as important as it is to create compelling content, choosing a great topic is equally important. If you want to score well in academics, you will have to impress your instructor with the best argumentative essay topics.

Below are some great topic ideas for you related to different fields. Choose the right topic for your essay and start the process.

Sports Argumentative Essay Topics

• Can video gamers be counted as true athletes?
• By participating in sports, can children be kept out of trouble?
• Should girls be allowed to participate in the same sports as boys?
• Should alternatives to steroids be legalized for professional athletes?
• Do you consider cheerleading a sport?
• Does your College spend a lot of money in the name of sports programs?
• Student-athletes should get money for playing.
• Betting on sports should be illegal.
• Sports events shouldn’t broadcast alcohol and tobacco ads.
• Are female athletes looked upon as sexual objects by the media?
• All athletes should be tested for drugs before their performance.
• Females should not be allowed to take part in extreme sports.
• Impact of bodybuilding on a woman’s body in old age.

Argumentative Essay Topics Education

• Parents should have an active role in their child's education.
• The grading system shouldn’t exist to judge a student’s abilities.
• Standardized tests should be abolished in schools.
• All students must wear a uniform in high school.
• Does technology benefit the educational system?
• Studying in a single-sex class is better than studying in a mixed one?
• All students must be made to learn a foreign language?
• Programming should be made compulsory for all students.
• Should students have sex education classes at school?
• Should schools have the right to test students for drugs?
• Girls should be equally encouraged to take part in sports in school.
• The world should have a uniform language.
• Hard work isn’t enough for being successful in a student’s life.
• Should teachers be allowed to physically discipline their students?
• How to bring change in the education system of the United States?

Social Media Argumentative Essay Topics

• Are social networks an effective platform for communication?
• Do people really get a job through LinkedIn?
• Is Facebook legally allowed to leak the private information of its users?
• Is it possible to earn a good amount of money from YouTube?
• Should Facebook, WhatsApp, and Twitter be banned permanently?
• Social media has successfully increased employment rates.
• Celebrity endorsements are unethical.
• Social media has destroyed real-life communication.
• Social media has made doing business easier.
• Blogging is an irrelevant profession.
• How is social media depicting beauty standards?
• How has social media become a major source of inferiority complex among teenagers?
• Is it possible to have a life without social media at this time?
• Should underaged children be allowed to own social media accounts?
• Pros and cons of social media.

Argumentative Essay Topics Technology

• Are cell phones harmful to the human race?
• Are spy applications invading the privacy of users?
• Are Millennials more dependent on computers than Baby Boomers?
• Is Typescript the future of front-end development?
• The impact of microwave tech on our biology.Technology has made us lazier.
• Should coding be taught from middle school?
• Cognitive Computers like Watson are unethical.
• Should a candidate’s social media profiles be considered in the hiring process?
• Children shouldn’t be given personal mobile phones.
• Self-driving cars and the future of transportation.
• Has technology made people less efficient?
• Technological advancements in the field of psychology.
• Is the future in the hands of Artificial Intelligence?
• Pros and cons of depending a lot on technology.

American History Argumentative Essay Topics

• What was the impact of European colonization on Native Americans?
• What was the role of women in the movement toward revolution?
• What were the key causes of the American Revolution?
• The key issues that caused conflict between North and South and led to the civil war?
• The effects of the Great Depression on the banking industry in America.
• Did the Civil Rights Movement reduce or lead to racial violence?
• Post World War II, how did America grow?
• 21st-century American foreign policy.
• Is Barack Obama the first American president who made history?
• Was slavery an inevitable part of the development of American society?
• Should the Indian Removal Act be considered an act of genocide?

Mental Health Argumentative Essay Topics 

• Are antidepressants overprescribed in modern society?
• Should mental health services be made free for all?
• Is social media affecting mental health negatively?
• Is there a stigma attached to seeking out mental health help?
• What role do genetics and environment play in determining mental illness?
• Can art and music therapy be effective treatments for mental illness?
• How can we tackle the stigma associated with mental illness?
• What can be done to reduce the prevalence of anxiety in young people?
• Should there be mandatory mental health education in schools?

Social Issues Argumentative Topics

• Should male workers receive paternity leave too?
• Is age a major factor in relationship success or failure?
• Is torture acceptable under any circumstance?
• What are the primary causes of down syndrome?
• What should the punishments be for failed parenting?
• A candidate’s appearance shouldn’t be considered in a job hiring process.
• Some common stereotypes in your society.
• Cheating is increasing every day.
• We are way too dependent on computers and technology.
• Is boredom the cause of getting into trouble?
• Beauty magazines should stop photoshopping models.
• Capitalism vs. socialism. What would benefit society more?
• Is the women’s rights movement justified?
• The real objectives of Feminism.
• Impact of homosexuality on society.

Argumentative Essay Topics Animals

• Hunting for fun and sports is unethical and must get banned.
• Aggressive dog breeds such as pit bulls should not be allowed as pets.
• Testing beauty products on animals is justifiable.
• Using monkeys for research in labs is a necessary evil.
• Wearing fur and leather shouldn’t be unethical.
• Is genetic modification of livestock beneficial?
• Animal dissection in medical school is a good way to learn.
• Owning pets reduces the risk of getting diseases. Do you agree?
• Emotional support animals can truly help lonely people.
• Keeping exotic animals as pets is inhumane.
• Stronger laws must be enforced against animal cruelty.
• Pros and cons of animal testing.
• How can the emotional support of animals help in treating mental problems?
• Significance of microchipping the pets.
• Rights enjoyed by the ESA owners.

Argumentative Research Paper Topics

• Ways to decrease childcare costs in the United States.
• Are literate people better parents?
• Challenges faced by female politicians.
• Is rehab effective for sex offenders?
• Is music a form of real art?
• Spanish is a simple language to learn.
• Schools should ban vending machines on-campus.
• Are teachers to blame when a student performs poorly?
• Are gender stereotypes encouraged by parents?
• Illegal immigrants and terrorism: is it related?
• Can imposing a tax on sugar help fight obesity.
• Should age be a factor in relationships?
• Do dreams have a symbolic meaning?
• Should South and North Korea become one?
• Can depression be cured using natural ways?

Unique Argumentative Essay Topics

Looking for some general argumentative essay topic ideas? Here is an ultimate list of great topics that can make your essay writing fun for you and your readers.

Controversial Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should same-sex marriage be legal in all 50 states within the United States of America?
• Is the feminist movement ruining the minds of young girls?
• Corruption and its effects on increasing wages.
• Hunting should be banned globally. Do you agree?
• Which is more beneficial for society, Communism or Capitalism?
• Should human cloning be allowed or not?
• Abortion – A pro-life or a pro-choice?
• Do anti-discrimination laws reinforce discrimination?
• Should patients be entitled to request medically-assisted suicide in cases of terminal illness?
• Can beauty standards be more inclusive?
• Workplace dating should not be allowed, and here’s why.
• Displaced immigrants and refugees should be given shelter by every country.
• Is vegan or vegetarian life good for health?
• Online dating has ruined the essence of old-school romance.
• Chocolate can help improve our bad mood.
• Is it ethical to eat meat?
• Mothers make better parents naturally.
• Politics can never be clean and fair.
• Should the drinking age be lowered?

Easy Argumentative Essay Topics

• Are girls more intelligent than boys?
• Parents of middle schoolers should control their internet.
• Was Johnny Depp the best choice for Burton’s Ed Wood?
• Do religious movements cause the outbreak of war?
• Are human beings the major source of global climate change?
• Is it ethical to have kids perform chores?
• Is using LEDs making a difference?
• How does being a vegan help the environment?
• Should teenage marriages be allowed?
• Social media has brought families closer. Is there any truth to this statement?
• If the House of Lords had veto power over the House of Commons, Britain would’ve been better off.
• It’s okay to date multiple people at the same time.
• HIV is falsely associated with homosexuals. Why?
• Why are the laws neglecting tobacco and alcohol?
• Most of the modern-time artists are one-hit wonders.

Fun Argumentative Essay Topics

• Is panda hugging a viable career option?
• Does Justin Bieber owe his success to negative PR?
• Is it true that a way to a man’s heart is through his stomach?
• Is the Bermuda Triangle a real thing?
• Is it okay for parents to lie to their children about Santa Claus?
• Did the feminist movement ever help you?
• How did the feminist movement ever help you?
• There is no such thing as organic food.
• How to make your roommate believe that moving out is the best option.
• Why should I join a different family?
• Fans should not judge players after losses or failures.
• Is social promotion a helpful practice?
• Is racism a natural condition of human society?
• Dieting must not be practiced by schoolers.
• Should tattoos be perceived as a social deviation?

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Argumentative Essay Topics 2022

• Are US elections always fair?
• Is the death penalty an effective punishment for criminals?
• Is it wise to replace soldiers with machines and artificial intelligence on battlefields?
• Should animals be used for performing experiments?
• Effects of terrorism on the foreign policy of the United States of America's cosmetic surgery worth the risks?
• What is your point of view on a terminally ill person having the right to assisted suicide?
• Life 100 years ago was much easier than it is today.
• Is religion a factor that contributes to war?
• A woman who doesn’t have enough resources to raise a child to be allowed to abort?
• Physical activities are the most convenient way to relax.
• The best way to enhance education is to decrease the number of classes.
• Sports classes should become mandatory for everybody.
• The pros and cons of using gadgets for studying purposes.
• What is the most important socio-political movement of the modern era?

Argumentative Essay Topics 2023

The following are some amazing topics for argumentative essays. Have a look at them to get a better idea.

• Fast food is responsible for childhood obesity in the US.
• Is the United States ready for a female president?
• Parents need to be very friendly with their kids.
• Are smartphones harmful to our health?
• Education needs to be free for all.
• Is single-sex education still a good idea in 2020?
• Should all people pursue a university degree worldwide?
• Internet access must be unlimited and free.
• Modern education has to eliminate grading systems.
• Capitalism should acquire more socially significant policies.
• Tourist tax is mandatory to save cultural heritage.
• Kindergartens must introduce foreign language instruction.
• Is hunting good for environmental well-being?
• Using animals for research must be banned.
• Women perform better than men in official positions and occupations.

Choosing a Good Argumentative Essay Topic

So you know the importance of choosing the right topic when writing an argumentative essay.

But what are you going to write about?

You sure don’t want to pick an argumentative essay topic that everyone else is working on. And you don’t want to research an argumentative topic where information and data are impossible to find.

You hopefully want to write on a debatable topic that will interest both you and your reader. Here are the criteria we use to choose a topic for argumentative essays:

• It has to be interesting to the writer. You’ll be outlining, researching, and writing in-depth, so pick an engaging topic for your argument.
• Have some information to begin with. The more familiar you are with the subject area, the easier it will be for both you and the reader.
• The best argumentative essay topics are mostly controversial. If there’s no conflict and everyone agrees on everything, it won’t qualify as an argumentative essay.
• An arguable thesis statement can be created according to the topic.

What Makes a Good Argumentative Essay?

A good argumentative essay is one that presents a well-reasoned and logical argument. It should be supported by facts and evidence, not just speculation or opinion. To create an effective argumentative essay, the writer must provide a strong case for their position on any given topic.

Strong Introduction and Thesis 

The first element of a good argumentative essay is an interesting and clear introduction. This should introduce the topic in a way that engages readers and makes them want to learn more. 

It should also provide an overview of the writer's position on the issue, as well as any evidence they will be using to support their argument.

Good Research and Evidence 

Good argumentation requires good evidence. So a good argumentative essay should be backed up by research and evidence. 

If a writer is making an assertion, they must provide evidence to back it up. This could include physical evidence such as statistics or quotes from experts in the field, as well as logical arguments that support their position.

Organized Structure 

The structure of an argumentative essay is also important. It should be structured in a way that makes it easy to follow and understand. 

This could include using headings, subheadings, and bullet points to break up the text into more manageable pieces. In addition, it should have a clear flow of ideas, with each paragraph logically leading to the next.

Effective Conclusion 

Finally, a good argumentative essay should have an effective conclusion. This should provide a summary of the writer's main points and reiterate their position on the issue.  The conclusion should also leave readers with something to think about, leaving them informed and with new insight.

After reading our list, don’t be surprised if your mind starts coming up with additional topics for an argumentative essay. We recommend that you keep a notebook or journal handy to record these topic ideas for later.

These were some of the most interesting essay topics . Did you find a topic to write on?

Now, before you overwhelm yourself by jumping straight to the writing process, we have a helpful tip for you. Go through this detailed article to learn how to craft an argumentative essay effectively.

Seeking help from professionals is nothing to be ashamed of, especially when your grades are at stake. It is quite common for some students not to have a knack for writing. Also, some might not have the time to complete assignments.

If you can relate to such students, you should consider taking help from a reliable essay writing service such as 5StarEssays.com . You can simply request ‘ write my essay '. And we will have an expert essay writer to provide you with high-quality assignments regardless of type and field.

Or, use our AI Essay Generator , for AI powered writing help to guide your way!

Masters Essay, Literature

Jared P. is a renowned author and writing service provider with over fifteen years of experience in the publishing industry. He has a Ph.D. degree in English Literature and has spent his entire career helping students achieve their academic goals by providing expert writing assistance.

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50 Argumentative Essay Topics for Students

4-minute read

• 11th June 2022

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

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

●  Does texting hinder interpersonal communication skills?

●  Should there be laws against using devices while driving?

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

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

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

●  Is AI helping or hurting society?

●  Should cyber-bullying carry legal consequences?

●  Should Supreme Court justices be elected?

●  Is war always a political decision?

●  Should people join a political party?

●  Is capitalism ethical?

●  Is the electoral college an effective system?

●  Should prisoners be allowed to vote?

●  Should the death penalty be legal?

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

●  Is healthcare a fundamental human right?

●  Should vaccinations be mandated for children?

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

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

●  Should abortion be legal?

●  Is it ethical to perform medical experiments on animals?

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

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

Mental Healthcare

●  What causes the stigma around mental health?

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

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

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

●  Discuss the effect of physical activity on mental health.

●  Should sports be segregated by gender?

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

●  Are professional athletes overpaid?

●  Should college athletes be paid?

●  Should sports betting be legal?

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

●  Should graffiti be considered art or vandalism?

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

●  Should schools be required to offer art courses?

●  Is art necessary to society?

●  Should schools require uniforms?

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

●  Do standardized tests effectively measure intelligence?

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

●  Should higher education be free?

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

●  Are children better off in two-parent households?

●  Should LGBTQ+ partners be allowed to adopt?

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

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

●  Does helicopter parenting help or hurt children?

●  Should parents monitor their children’s Internet use?

Proofreading & Editing

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

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50 Argumentative Essay Topics

Illustration by Catherine Song. ThoughtCo. 

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

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

Choosing a Great Argumentative Essay Topic

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

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

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

Ideas for Argument Essays

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

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

List of 50 Possible Argumentative Essay Topics

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

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

How to Craft a Persuasive Argument

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

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

• Share full article

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300 Questions and Images to Inspire Argument Writing

We categorized 300 of our recent Student Opinion and Picture Prompts by topic to help students practice writing arguments about the issues that matter to them. We look forward to seeing which questions inspire the most passionate arguments, and we invite students to submit their work to our Eighth Annual Editorial Contest.

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300 Questions and Images to Inspire Argument Writing a Technology & Social Media 23. Phone Warnings: Should tech devices come with addiction advisories? Article-Based Prompts 24. Phones in Church: Are there some places 1. How Worried Should We Be About Screen where phones just don't belong? Time During the Pandemic? 25. Driverless Cars: What do you think about 2. How Do You Feel About Cancel Culture? driverless cars? 3. Do Memes Make the Interne er Place? 26. Texting While Walking: Should looking at 4. Does Online Public Shaming Prevent Us From your phone while crossing the street be illegal? Being Able to Grow and Change? 27. Device Addiction?: As a society, are we too 5. How Young Is Too Young to Use Social Media? addicted to our devices? 6. Where Should We Draw the Line Between 28. ‘A Man Needs His Nuggs': What do you think Community Health and Safety and Individual of Carter Wilkerson's quest, and its results? Liberty and Privacy? 29. Soothing Video Games: Can video games 7. Do You Think Online Conspiracy Theories Can intended to calm the mind be fun? Worthwhile? Be Dangerous? 30. Our Lives on Social Media: How much do you 8. What Do You Think of the Decision by Tech think we can judge our collective happiness by Companies to Block President Trump? what is posted on social media? 9. Should the Adults in Your Life Be Worried by 31. “Bracelet of Silence': Would you wear privacy How Much You Use Your Phone? armor? 10. Is Your Phone Love Hurting Your 32. Baby Yoda: What are your favorite memes? Relationships? 33. Tesla's 'Cybertruck': What do you think of 11. Do You Trust Facebook? this “pickup of the future"? 12. Do You Think Recreational Drones Are Safe? 34. The ‘Bird Box’ Challenge: What do you think 13. Should Kids Be Social Media Influencers? of social media challenges like this one? 14. Does Grammar Still Matter in the Age of Twitter? School 15. Should Texting While Driving Be Treated Like Drunken Driving? Article-Based Prompts 16. How Do You Think Technology Affects 35. Should Media Literacy Be a Required Course Dating? in School? 36. Should Schools Be Able to Discipline Image-Based Prompts Students for What They Say on Social Media? 17. Online Video Games: Does more need to be 37. How Should Schools Hold Students done to make online gaming communities safer? Accountable for Hurting Others? 18. A Computer in Everything: Do “smart” 38. Should Schools Provide Free Pads and devices worry you? Tampons? 19. Snail Mail: Do you think handwritten cards 39. Can Empathy Be Taught? Should Schools Try and letters still have value in the digital age? to Help Us Feel One Another's Pain? 20. Cyberbullying: Should social media 40. When the Pandemic Ends, Will School companies do more to prevent online Change Forever? harassment? 41. Should Schools Change How They Grade 21. Phone Manners: Are there times when you Students During the Pandemic? think using your phone while you're with other 42. Should Students Be Monitored When Taking people is rude? Online Tests? 22. Alarm Clocks: Are there any “dumb” devices 43. Should There Still Be Snow Days? that you think are better than “smart” devices? The New York Times Learning Network

Image-Based Prompts 72. Graduation in a Pandemic: Is your school doing enough to honor seniors? 73. Most Challenged Books: Are there books that don't belong in schools or public libraries? 74. Mascot: If you could choose one mascot to represent your school, what would it be? 75. Math: How do you feel about math? 76. Sleep Deprivation: Do you ink school should start later for teenagers? 77. Standardized Tests: Is there too much testing at your school? Why or why not? 78. Teacher Walkouts: Do you think teachers should be paid more? Why or why not? 79. Mermaid School: If there could be a special school that would teach you something you really want to learn, what would that school be? Coronavirus 44. How Should Racial Slurs in Literature Be Handled in the Classroom? 45. Should Teachers Be Allowed to Wear Political Symbols? 46. Should Schools or Employers Be Allowed to Tell People How They Should Wear Their Hair? 47. Are Straight A's Always a Good Thing? 48. Should Schools Teach You How to Be Happy? 49. How Do You Think American Education Could Be Improved? 50. Should Schools Test Their Students for Nicotine and Drug Use? 51. Can Social Media Be a Tool for Learning and Growth in Schools? 52. Should Facial Recognition Technology Be Used in Schools? 53. Should Your School Day Start Later? 54. Should Yearbooks Include Political News? 55. How Should Senior Year in High School Be Spent? 56. Should Teachers Be Armed With Guns? 57. Is School a place for Self-Expression? 58. Should Students Be Punished for Not Having Lunch Money? 59. Is Live-Streaming Classrooms a Good Idea? 60. Should Gifted and Talented Education Be Eliminated? 61. What Are the Most Important Things Students Should Learn in School? 62. Should Schools Be Allowed to Censor Student Newspapers? 63. Do You Feel Your School and Teachers Welcome Both Conservative and Liberal Points of View? 64. Should Teachers and Professors Ban Student Use of Laptops in Class? 65. Should Schools Teach About Climate Change? 66. Should All Schools Offer Music Programs? 67. Does Your School Need More Money? 68. Should All Schools Teach Cursive? 69. What Role Should Textbooks Play in Education? 70. Do Kids Need Recess? 71. Should Public Preschool Be a Right for All Children? Article-Based Prompts 80. What Weaknesses and Strengths About Our World Are Being Exposed by This Pandemic? 81. As Coronavirus Cases Surge, How Should Leaders Decide what Stays Open and What Closes? 82. How Should We Balance Safety and Urgency in Developing a Covid-19 Vaccine? 83. Do You Want Your Parents and Grandparents to Get the New Coronavirus Vaccine? 84. Do You Think People Have Gotten Too Relaxed About Covid? 85. How Do You Feel About Mask-Slipping? Image-Based Prompts 86. Surge: How should the United States keep the coronavirus pandemic at bay? 87. Masks: What “civic rules” do you think we should all follow now? 88. Paid to Laugh: Would you attend a live TV show taping – if you got money for it? 89. Dolly's Donation: How do you feel about celebrity philanthropy? 90. Crowds and Covid: How do you feel about crowds during the pandemic? 91. Going Nowhere Fast: Would you take a flight to nowhere? The New York Times Learning Network

College & Career Image-Based Prompts 116. Optimism: Is your glass half-empty or halffull? 117. Cursing: Is it ever OK, useful or even healthy to curse? Or is it always inappropriate? 118. Anger Rooms: Do you think places like this are a good idea? Race & Gender Article-Based Prompts 92. Should Students Be Required to Take the SAT and ACT to Apply to College? 93. Should National Service Be Required for All Young Americans? 94. What Your Reaction the College Admissions Cheating Scandal? 95. Is the College Admissions Process Fair? 96. Should Everyone Go to College? 97. Should College Be Free? 98. Are Lavish Amenities on College Campuses Useful or Frivolous? 99. Should 'Despised Dissenters' Be Allowed to Speak on College Campuses? 100. How Should the Problem of Sexual Assault on Campuses Be Addressed? 101. Should Fraternities Be Abolished? 102. Is Student Debt Worth It? 103. Do Other People Care Too Much About Your Post-High School Plans? 104. Should All Young People Learn How to Invest in the Stock Market? Article-Based Prompts 119. What Is Your Reaction to the Days of Protest That Followed the Death of George Floyd? 120. How Should Parents Teach Their Children About Race and Racism? 121. Is America 'Backsliding' on Race? 122. Should All Americans Receive Anti-Bias Education? 123. Should All Companies Require Anti-Bias Training for Employees? 124. Should Columbus Day Be Replaced With Indigenous Peoples Day? 125. Is Fear of 'The Other Poisoning Public Life? 126. Justice Ginsburg Fought for Gender Equality. How Close Are We to Achieving That Goal? 127. What Should #MeToo Mean for Teenage Boys? 128. Should There Be More Boy Dolls? 129. Should the Boy Scouts Be Coed? 130. What Is Hard About Being a Boy? Image-Based Prompts 105. Jack-of-All-Trades: Is it better to focus on one thing early in life and get really good at it? Mental & Physical Health Article-Based Prompts 106. Should Students Get Mental Health Days Off From School? 107. Is Struggle Essential to Happiness? 108. Does Every Country Need a ‘Loneliness Minister'? 109. Should Schools Teach Mindfulness? 110. Should All Children Be Vaccinated? 111. What Do You Think About Vegetarianism? 112. Do We Worry Too Much About Germs? 113. What Advice Should Parents and Counselors Give Teenagers About Sexting? 114. Are Emotional-Support Animals a Scam? 115. Do You Believe in Manifesting? Image-Based Prompts 131. Fashion-Show Diversity: What other industries or aspects of life need more diversity? 132. A Town's New Seal: Why do you think Whitesboro, N.Y., decided to change its seal? 133. Gender Expectations: Do you ever find gender expectations or norms confining? 134. Women's History Month: What does this holiday mean to you? 135. Boys and Men: What does it mean to "be a man”? 136. Women in Movies: Should some movies dominated by male actors be remade with largely female casts? The New York Times Learning Network

137. Unisex Clothing: Should clothing labeling be 160. 'The Image of the Revolution': What is it unisex? about this photograph that makes it so 138. Feminism: Do you consider yourself a powerful? feminist? 161. Book Covers: What are your favorite book 139. Gender and 'Genderless': Do you think that covers? Why? gender is binary? 162. Fashion Trends: What are your favorite fashion trends? What trends do you hate? Arts 163. Fashion Comebacks: What trends from the past would you like to see revived? Article-Based Prompts 164. Murals: Can art be an act of resistance? 140. What Are the Greatest Songs of All Time? 165. An 18-Karat Throne: Is this art? 141. Should Museums Return Looted Artifacts to 166. A Hug Seen Around the World: Why do you Their Countries of Origin? think this image became so popular so quickly? 142. How Do You Feel About Censored Music? 167. The Role of Public Broadcasting: Do you 143. What Role Should Celebrities Have During think programs like “Sesame Street” make the the Coronavirus Crisis? U.S. smarter, stronger and safer? 144. Can You Separate Art From the Artist? 168. Best Books?: What have you read and loved 145. Are There Subjects That Should Be Off this year? Limits to Artists, or to Certain Artists in Particular? Sports 146. Should Art Come With Trigger Warnings? 147. Should Graffiti Be Protected? Article-Based Prompts 148. Is the Digital Era Improving or Ruining the 169. Should Girls and Boys Sports Teams Experience of Art? Compete in the Same League? 149. Are Museums Still Important in the Digital 170. Should College Athletes Be Paid? Age? 171. Are Youth Sports Too Competitive? 150. In the Age of Digital Streaming, Are Movie 172. Is It Selfish to Pursue Risky Sports Like Theaters Still Relevant? Extreme Mountain Climbing? 151. Is Hollywood Becoming More Diverse? 173. How Should We Punish Sports Cheaters? 152. What Stereotypical Characters Make You 174. Should Technology in Sports Be Limited? Cringe? 175. Should Blowouts Be Allowed in Youth 153. Do We Need More Female Superheroes? Sports? 154. Do Video Games Deserve the Bad Rap They 176. Are Some Youth Sports Too Intense? Often Get? 177. Does Better Sports Equipment Unfairly 155. Should Musicians Be Allowed to Copy or Improve Athletic Ability? Borrow From Other Artists? 178. Is It Offensive for Sports Teams and Their 156. Is Listening to a Book Just as Good as Fans to Use Native American Names, Imagery Reading It? and Gestures? 157. Is There Any Benefit to Reading Books You Hate? Image-Based Prompts 179. Brady's Big Move: How do you feel about Image-Based Prompts Tom Brady leaving the Patriots? 158. Hologram Musicians: Which departed 180. Tiger Woods Wins: What are the greatest artists would you like to see perform live? comebacks in history? 159. Movie Theaters: In the age of digital 181. Referees: Do sports officials deserve more streaming, are movie theaters still relevant? respect? 182. $430 Million Deal: Is any athlete worth that amount of money? The New York Times Learning Network

205. Adults With Rainbow Hair: Are there some trends adults just should not try? 206. Parenting Skills: Should parents say “no” more often when their children ask for new things? Ethics & Morality 183. Super Bowl Commercials: Was it smart for advertisers to steer clear of controversy in 2019? 184. Champions: What team in any sport would you like to see win a championship? 185. The Outspoken N.B.A.: Should all sports leagues treat political speech as a right for their players? 186. Gymnastics on Horseback: What is the world's most difficult sport? 187. Tackle Football: Should children under the age of 12 play tackle football, in your opinion? 188. Breakdancing: Should dance be an Olympic event? 189. Coed Sports: Do you think women and men should compete against each other in sports? 190. Super Bowl Halftime Performer: Whom would you choose to perform at the Super Bowl, and why? 191. Colin Kaepernick's Protest: What do you think of this protest? Parenting & Childhood Article-Based Prompts 192. Should Parents Track Their Children? 193. Who Should Decide whether a Teenager Can Get a Tattoo or Piercing? 194. Is It Harder to Grow Up in the 21st Century Than It Was in the Past? 195. Is Childhood Today Over-Supervised? 196. How Should Parents Talk to Their Children About Drugs? 197. What Should We Call Your Generation? 198. Do Parents Ever Cross a Line by Helping Too Much With Schoolwork? 199. What's the Best Way to Discipline Children? 200. What Are Your Thoughts on 'Snowplow Parents'? 201. Should Stay-at-Home Parents Be Paid? 202. When Do You Become an Adult? Article-Based Prompts 207. Should Students Be Monitored When Taking Online Tests? 208. What Makes a Great Leader? 209. Is It OK to Laugh During Dark Times? 210. Is It Immoral to Increase the Price of Goods During a Crisis? 211. Would You Allow an Ex-Prisoner to Live With You? 212. Would You Return a Lost Wallet? (What if It Had Lots of Money in It?) 213. Is It Wrong to Focus on Animal Welfare When Humans Are Suffering? 214. Is Animal Testing Ever Justified? 215. Should We Be Concerned With Where We Get Our Pets? 216. Is This Exhibit Animal Cruelty or Art? 217. Should Extinct Animals Be Resurrected? If So, Which Ones? 218. Why Do Bystanders Sometimes Fail to Help When They See Someone in Danger? 219. Is It Ethical to Create Genetically Edited Humans? 220. Should Reporters Ever Help the People They Are Covering? 221. Is It OK to Use Family Connections to Get a Job? 222. Is $1 Billion Too Much Money for Any One Person to Have? 223. Are We Being Bad Citizens If We Don't Keep Up With the News? 224. Should Prisons Offer Incarcerated People Education Opportunities? 225. Should Law Enforcement Be Able to Use DNA Data From Genealogy Websites for Criminal Investigations? 226. Should We Treat Robots Like People? Image-Based Prompts 203. Household Chores: Do you think children should help out around the house? 204. Spy Cams: Should parents use smart devices to keep tabs on their children when they're home alone? The New York Times Learning Network

Image-Based Prompts 249. Does the United States Owe Reparations to 227. World's Big Sleep Out: What lengths would the Descendants of Enslaved People? you go to in support of a worthy cause? 250. Do You Think It Is Important for Teenagers 228. Tipping: Do you leave a tip whenever to Participate in Political Activism? you're asked to? 251. Should the Voting Age Be Lowered to 16? 229. Cash Reward: Should you accept a cash 252. What Should Lawmakers Do About Guns reward for doing the right thing? and Gun Violence? 230. Cheating: Would you tell if you caught your 253. Should Confederate Statues Be Removed or classma cheating? Remain in Place? 231. Do Not Resuscitate: Should doctors have 254. Does the U.S. Constitution Need an Equal tried to revive this man? Rights Amendment? 232. Hitler and History: Should the bunker 255. Should National Monuments Be Protected where Hitler killed himself be a tourist by the Government? attraction? 256. Should Free Speech Protections Include Self 233. Solving Global Problems: As the head of a Expression That Discriminates? global foundation, what problem would you 257. How Important Is Freedom of the Press? solve? 258. Should Ex-Felons Have the Right to Vote? 259. Should Marijuana Be Legal? Government & Politics 260. Should the United States Abolish Daylight Saving Time? Article-Based Prompts 261. Should the U.S. Ban Military-Style 234. Should the Death Penalty Be Abolished? Semiautomatic Weapons? 235. If You Were a Member of Congress, Would 262. Should the U.S. Get Rid of the Electoral You Vote to Impeach President Trump? College? 236. Who Do You Think Should Be Person of the 263. What Do You Think of President Trump's Year for 2020? Use of Twitter? 237. Should the United States Decriminalize the 264. Should Celebrities Weigh In on Politics? Possession of Drugs? 265. Why Is It Important for People With 238. What Would You Do First if You Were the Different Political Beliefs to Talk to Each Other? New President? 266. Should Athletes Speak Out On Social and 239. Does Everyone Have a Responsibility to Political Issues? Vote? 240. How Should We Remember the Image-Based Prompts Problematic Actions of the Nation's Founders? 267. Government Buildings: Should they all look 241. Do You Care Who Sits on the Supreme like the Lincoln Memorial? Court? Should We Care? 268. Oprah for President: Would you vote for 242. Is the Electoral College a Problem? Does It her if you could? Need to Be Fixed? 269. Peaceful Protesting: In what ways can you 243. Are Presidential Debates Helpful to Voters? demonstrate peacefully to express your views? Or Should They Be Scrapped? 270. Student Climate Strikes: What issues do you 244. Is Your Generation Doing Its Part to think deserve more attention? Strengthen Our Democracy? 271. Pennies: Should the United States get rid of 245. Should We All Be Able to Vote by Mail? the penny? 246. What Issues in the 2020 Presidential Race 272. Mandatory Voting?: Should citizens who Are Most Important to You? are 18 or older be required to vote? 247. Do You Think the American Dream Is Real? 273. Dabbing in Congress: Should this teenager 248. Should Plastic Bags Be Banned Everywhere? have dabbed in his father's official swearing-in photo? The New York Times Learning Network

274. Baby Bonds: Should the government give money to babies? Other Questions 296. Tattoos: How do you feel about tattooing in general? 297. Brushing Beagle: What are the best dog breeds, in your opinion? 298. U.F.O.s: Do you believe that U.F.O.s are signs of alien life? 299. Small Talk: Do you have the gift of gab? 300. Lottery Winnings: Would you want to win the lottery? Why or why not Article-Based Prompts 275. We Document Life's Milestones. How Should We Document Death? 276. es Reality Deserve Its Bad Rap? 277. Do Marriage Proposals Still Have a Place in Today's Society? 278. Should We Rethink Thanksgiving? 279. How Do You Decide What News to Believe, What to Question and What to Dismiss? 280. Should the Week Be Four Days Instead of Five? 281. Should Public Transit Be Free? 282. How Important Is Knowing a Foreign Language? 283. Is There a ‘Right Way' to Be a Tourist? 284. Should Your Significant Other Be Your Best Friend? 285. What Do You Think of the #WalkUpNotOut Movement? Image-Based Prompts 286. Teenage Drivers: What do you think of Georgia's decision to issue driver's licenses without road tests? 287. Snow Days: How do you feel about winter weather? 288. Fortune Tellers: Do you believe in psychics? 289. Big City, Small Town: Which would you rather live in? Why? 290. Game Show Winner: Would you ever want to be a contestant on a game show? 291. Fast-Food Buffet: Is this the feast of your dreams or your nightmares? 292. Public Libraries: Are libraries still relevant and important today? 293. Trans Fats: Should trans fats be banned around the world? 294. Dolls: If you could have your favorite toy company make a doll of someone, who would it be and why? 295. Creepy Clowns: How do you feel about clowns? The New York Times Learning Network

Should Single-use Plastics Be Banned?

2024 presidential election, should obesity be treated as a disease, digital addiction & social media, should term limits be imposed on u.s. senators and representatives, should permitless, “constitutional carry” of guns be legal, election 2024.

By Category Topics A-Z

• Single-use Plastics Ban
• Digital Addiction & Social Media
• Constitutional Carry of Handguns
• Congressional Term Limits
• Artificial Intelligence
• Alternative Energy
• Death Penalty
• U.S. Supreme Court Packing
• 2024 Election
• Mandatory National Service
• Fur Clothing Bans

Digital Life

• Binge-watching
• Cancel Culture
• Cell Phone Radiation
• Is the Internet “Making Us Stupid”?
• Net Neutrality
• TikTok Bans
• Uber & Lyft
• Video Games & Violence
• Tablets vs. Textbooks (archived 11/28/22)

Elections & Presidents

• Election Day National Holiday
• Electoral College
• Felon Voting
• Lowering the Voting Age to 16
• Voting Machines
• Ronald Reagan (archived 10/16/20)
• Bill Clinton (archived 10/16/20)
• 2008 Presidential Election (archived 1/19/09)
• 2012 Presidential Election (archived 1/22/13)
• 2016 Presidential Election (archived 1/21/17)
• 2020 Presidential Election (archived 1/7/20)
• Animal Dissection
• Banned Books
• College Education
• Corporal Punishment
• Free College
• School Uniforms
• Standardized Tests
• Student Loan Debt
• Vaccines for Kids
• School Vouchers (archived 6/23/2023)
• Teacher Tenure (archived 11/28/22)

Health & Medicine

• Employer Vaccine Mandates
• Medical Aid in Dying
• Medical Marijuana
• OTC Birth Control
• Prescription Drug Costs
• Universal Health Care
• Vaping E-Cigarettes
• Born Gay (archived 10/19/20)
• Obamacare (archived 10/14/20)

Environment & Animal Rights

• Animal Testing
• CBD for Pets
• GMOs (Genetically Modified Organisms)
• Pit Bull Bans
• Space Colonization
• Vegetarianism
• Climate Change (archived 6/23/2023)
• Dakota Access Oil Pipeline (archived 10/7/20)

Government & Civics

• American Socialism
• D.C. & Puerto Rico Statehood
• Impeachment Explainer
• National Anthem Explainer
• ACLU (archived 12/15/21)
• Under God in the Pledge (archived 1/9/23)

Society & Holidays

• Daylight Saving Time
• Defund the Police
• Dress Codes
• Historic Statue Removal
• Reparations for Slavery
• Santa Claus
• Saturday Halloween
• Gay Marriage (archived 12/15/21)
• Cheerleading
• Drug Use in Sports
• Fighting in Hockey
• Kneeling during National Anthem
• College Football Playoffs (archived 9/18/12)
• Paying College Athletes (archived 3/22/2024)

Law & Order

• Gun Control
• Lower Drinking Age
• Police Body Cameras
• Private Prisons
• Recreational Marijuana Legalization
• D.A.R.E (archived 6/22/17)
• Prostitution Legalization (archived 12/15/21)

Economy & Taxes

• Churches & Taxes
• Corporate Tax Rate
• Gold Standard
• Minimum Wage
• Social Security Privatization
• Universal Basic Income
• Big Three Auto (archived 5/15/09)
• Insider Trading by Congress (archived 4/18/12)

International Scene

• Cuba Embargo
• DACA & Dreamers
• Drone Strikes Overseas
• Illegal Immigration
• Middle East Conflict Explainer
• Sanctuary Cities
• Israeli-Palestinian Conflict (archived 8/3/21)
• U.S. Drone Shot Down by Iran (archived 10/15/20)
• U.S. – Iraq War (archived 12/31/11)
• WTC Muslim Center (archived 6/3/13)
• Abortion – Should abortion be legal?
• ACLU – Is the ACLU good for America?
• Alternative Energy – Can alternative energy effectively replace fossil fuels?
• American Socialism – Should the U.S. become socialist?
• Animal Dissection – Should K-12 students dissect animals in science classrooms?
• Animal Testing – Should animals be used for scientific or commercial testing?
• Artificial Intelligence – Is artificial intelligence good for society?
• Banned Books – Should parents or other adults be able to ban books from schools and libraries?
• Big Three Bailout – Should the big three car manufacturers be bailed out by the U.S. government?
• Binge-Watching – Is binge-watching good for you?
• Born Gay – Is sexual orientation determined at birth?
• Single-Use Plastics Ban – Should single-use plastics be banned?
• Cancel Culture – Is cancel culture (or callout culture) good for society?
• CBD for Pets – Is CBD good for pets?
• Cell Phone Radiation – Is cell phone radiation safe?
• Cheerleading – Is cheerleading a sport?
• Churches & Taxes – Should churches (including mosques, synagogues, etc.) remain tax-exempt?
• Climate Change – Is human activity primarily responsible for global climate change?
• College Education – Is a college education worth it?
• College Football Playoffs – Should college football replace the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) with a playoff system?
• Congressional Insider Trading – Should insider trading by Congress be allowed?
• Congressional Term Limits – Should term limits be imposed on U.S. Senators and Representatives?
• Constitutional Carry of Handguns  – Should permitless, “constitutional carry” of guns be legal?
• Corporal Punishment – Should corporal punishment be used in K-12 schools?
• Corporate Tax Rate – Should the federal corporate income tax rate be raised?
• Cuba Embargo – Should the United States maintain its embargo against Cuba?
• DACA & Dreamers – Are DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) and the DREAM Act good for America?
• D.A.R.E. – Is the D.A.R.E. program good for America’s kids (K-12)?
• Dakota Access Pipeline – Should the Dakota Access Pipeline be completed?
• Daylight Saving Time – Should the United States keep daylight saving time?
• DC AND Puerto Rico Statehood – Should Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico be granted U.S. statehood?
• Death Penalty – Should the death penalty be legal?
• Dress Codes – Should dress codes be implemented and enforced?
• Defund the Police – Should police departments be defunded, if not abolished?
• Digital Addiction & Social Media – Does social media spur digital addiction and other social ills?
• Drinking Age – Should the drinking age be lowered from 21 to a younger age?
• Drone Strikes – Should the United States continue its use of drone strikes abroad?
• Drug Use in Sports – Should performance-enhancing drugs be accepted in sports?
• Election Day National Holiday – Should the election day be made a national holiday?
• Electoral College – Should the United States use the Electoral College in presidential elections?
• Employer Vaccine Mandates – Should employers be able to mandate vaccinations?
• Felon Voting – Should people who have completed felony sentences be allowed to vote?
• Fighting in Hockey – Should fighting be allowed in hockey?
• Filibuster – Should the U.S. Senate keep the filibuster?
• Fracking – Should the United States continue fracking
• Free College – Should public college be tuition-free?
• Fur Clothing Bans – Should fur clothing be banned?
• Gay Marriage – Should gay marriage be legal?
• Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) – Should genetically modified organisms (GMOs) be grown?
• Gold Standard – Should the United States return to a gold standard?
• Golf – Is golf a sport and are golfers athletes?
• Gun Control – Should more gun control laws be enacted?
• Historic Statue Removal – Should historic statues be taken down?
• Homework – Is homework beneficial?
• Illegal Immigration – Should the government provide a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants?
• Internet – Is the internet “making us stupid?”
• Israeli-Palestinian Conflict – What are the solutions to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?
• Kneeling during the National Anthem – Is kneeling during the national anthem an appropriate form of protest?
• Mandatory National Service – Should the United States have mandatory national service?
• Medical Marijuana – Should medical marijuana be legal?
• Medical Aid in Dying (MAID) – Should medical aid in dying (MAID) be legal??
• Milk – Should humans consume dairy milk?
• Minimum Wage – Should the federal minimum wage be increased?
• Net Neutrality – Should the U.S. have net neutrality laws?
• Obamacare – Is the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) good for America?
• Obesity – Is obesity a disease?
• Olympics – Are the Olympic games an overall benefit for their host countries and cities?
• Over-the-Counter (OTC) Birth Control Pills – Should birth control pills be available over-the-counter (OTC)?
• Paying College Athletes – Should colleges and universities pay college athletes?
• Penny – Should the penny stay in circulation?
• Pit Bull Bans – Should breed-specific legislation (“pit bull bans”) be enacted?
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• Universal Healthcare – Should the U.S. government provide universal health care?
• Sanctuary Cities – Should sanctuary cities receive federal funding?
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120+ Strong Argumentative Essay Topics

• DESCRIPTION Strong Argumentative Essay Topic Examples
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A great argumentative essay topic is one that sparks your interest and offers plenty of room for persuasive writing. Essentially, the more controversial the topic, the more it'll pop, and the easier it will be to take a strong stand for or against. Hot argument topics will leave people with a new opinion, a new perspective and a new appreciation of your writing skills.

Argumentative Essay Hot Topics

These top 10 hot topics for argumentative essays are sure to stir up a fire. Remember, you don't have to agree with the position you take to craft a winning argument, but you do have to make solid, logical arguments backed up by credible sources .

• Should abortion be banned?
• Should animal testing be stopped?
• Is the #metoo movement a good thing?
• Should manufacturers be responsible for the effects of the chemicals used in the creation of their products?
• Should illegal immigrants be granted residency?
• Is there a fake news problem? What is the source?
• Does "big pharma" have people’s best interests at heart?
• Is the death penalty a just punishment?
• Are there moral concerns that should make genetic cloning illegal?
• What should people do to stop human trafficking?

Argumentative Essay Topics About Politics

Need more topics? Politics has always produced debates amongst even the most loving of friends and family. Look around the world right now, and you'll see political divisions deepening. Here are some interesting topics for exploration. Allow these argumentative essay writing tips to help you pull all your thoughts together into one, cohesive presentation.

• Which political party has the right ideology?
• What should be done to reduce income inequality?
• Is paying down the national deficit the most important issue of our time?
• Does the Federal Reserve need to stop printing money because it's creating an unsustainable bubble?
• Is capitalism the best economic system?
• Is socialism the best economic system?
• Is America ready for a female president?
• Should an elected leader represent the interests of his or her own political party, or is it better to try to compromise?
• What recent political decision has created the most change?
• Does campaign finance reform work?

Argumentative Essay Topics About Society & Culture

You can also choose an argumentative essay topic about society. Many people live according to their own moral code . Whether it's based on religion, philosophy or individual interests, everyone has a code of sorts. Consider what you might want to argue, from this list or your own personal experience with life.

Once an idea starts to take shape in your head, it's time to formulate your argumentative essay outline using the enclosed sample as a template for your inarguable stance.

• When will LGTBQ individuals experience equality?
• Is healthcare a basic human right?
• Should TV censor explicit content because programmers have an obligation to produce family-friendly programming?
• Social media simultaneously draws us together and pulls us apart; does the good outweigh the bad or vice versa?
• Is a gap year precious time for exploration and reflection or a year-long vacation?
• Some states have begun to decriminalize the possession of certain drugs like marijuana; is this a good idea?
• Equality is part of lawmaking, but does it work in practice?
• Should people have the right to own a gun?
• In cases of terminal illness, should a patient be able to request medically-assisted suicide?
• Should smoking be illegal?
• What is the best way to encourage positive conversation about contentious issues?

Argumentative Essay Topics About History

If you’re studying history or simply enjoy it as a subject, you can find plenty of great argumentative essay topics about this subject. Try one of the following.

• Many people think we should learn from the past, but there are sometimes patterns in history. Do you think history repeats itself?
• How did the United States Civil War make the country better or worse?
• Thomas Jefferson made significant contributions to the founding of America, both as a writer and a politician. However, he didn’t live a perfect life. Was he a hero?
• Does our modern perspective change the “truth” of what happened during major historical events?
• Pick a past decade and discuss if immigrants and lower socio-economic classes had opportunities at that time.
• America was reluctant to get involved in World War I, and when they did, many American soldiers lost their lives. Was this a necessary war for America?
• How did the treatment of Native Americans leave a moral stain on the United States?
• Slavery was a fundamental part of the American colonies and later, the United States. How did this injustice change the country?
• What factors contributed to the rise of Naziism in Germany and to the Holocaust? How can these horrors be avoided in the future?
• The plague decimated the population of Europe and changed the course of history. What was its biggest impact?

More Argumentative Essay Topics for Every Age

Writing an argumentative essay is a great exercise, whether students are in elementary school, middle school, high school, or college. The key is finding topics that interest students and inspire passionate debate. These are some strong topics for every age group.

Argumentative Essay Topics for Kids in Elementary School

The following topics are perfect for elementary school students.

• Should there be commercials in children’s programs?
• Does homework help kids learn?
• Should school go year-round?
• How can school be fairer for kids from different backgrounds?
• Do schools treat boys and girls the same way?
• Should parents limit screen time?
• Should school start before eight o’clock in the morning?
• Should kids be able to vote in national elections?
• Is it better to read fiction or nonfiction?
• Is it better for kids to have distance-learning or be in school?
• Do parents treat all their children the same way, or do they treat the oldest and youngest differently?
• Should kids have the same teacher every year or switch teachers each year?
• Should video games be a sport?
• Are schools doing enough to stop bullying?
• Should kids have homework on weekends?
• Is it better if three generations of a family live together?
• Are hot dogs bad for you?
• Should school lunch include vegetables, even if some kids don’t like them?
• Are the rules at school fair?
• Is it okay to eat dessert before dinner?

Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle School

Middle schoolers are becoming more aware of society and the culture around them. These argumentative essay topics are perfect for this age group.

• Should middle schoolers have jobs like babysitting or mowing lawns?
• Are beauty pageants a good idea?
• Are violent video games bad?
• Should parents be able to say whether kids can dye their hair?
• Does social media do more harm than good?
• Do middle schoolers have too much homework?
• Should teachers get paid more?
• Is life more challenging for your generation or your parents’?
• Why is your favorite musician better than anyone else?
• Should kids read age-appropriate books, or is it okay to read grown-up books?
• Should there be ratings (like G, PG, and R) for movies?
• Is it better to ride the bus or walk to school?
• Is school lunch good for kids?
• Do you think an hour of reading or an hour of exercising is more beneficial?
• Should gym class be required?
• Should kids get paid for getting good grades?
• Is it better to have class over the computer or in person?
• Is cyberbullying as big a problem as in-person bullying?
• Should all cars be electric?

Argumentative Essay Topics for High School

By high school, students should be able to craft a detailed argumentative essay if they have the right topic. These ideas will get high school students inspired.

• Should people be allowed to burn the flag?
• Should parents get in trouble for truancy if kids don’t go to school?
• Is social media bad for relationships?
• Should companies be required to hire a diverse staff?
• Are women and men treated equally in your society?
• Should the minimum wage be raised?
• Should every student go to college?
• Is climate change a real threat?
• Are wind farms a benefit to the environment and economy?
• Should people be allowed to wear fur coats?
• Is it a bad idea to sample your DNA for genealogy?
• Should parents be able to say they don’t want medical treatment for their kids?
• Is the United States falling behind other countries in terms of education?
• Do the actions of a country’s leader influence the actions of the people?
• Should the electoral college be abolished?
• Should schools be required to offer art courses?
• Should all new cars be electric?
• Will artificial intelligence help the world or hurt it?
• Should high school students work during the school year?
• Are there forms of personal expression that shouldn’t be allowed in schools?

Argumentative Essay Topics for College

College students need argumentative essay topics that offer room to really build a strong argument and support it with research. These are some ideas.

• Are men and women equally emotional?
• Are printed books better than e-readers?
• Should the drinking age be lowered?
• Are parents responsible for childhood obesity?
• Should college be free of charge?
• Should beauty standards be more inclusive?
• Are all college majors equally important?
• Is social media bad for children?
• Has technology changed our definition of magic?
• Is it worth exploring space?
• Should all internships be paid?
• Should income be tied to the cost of a degree?
• Is climate change the most serious threat to the world?
• Is feminism still important?
• Has society made the necessary reparations for slavery?
• Should elections be decided by popular vote?
• Are all people entitled to free health care?
• Do anti-discrimination laws do enough to protect disabled students?
• Is a degree from an online college as legitimate as a degree from a brick-and-mortar school?
• Is it a conflict of interest for a professor to require students to purchase his book?

Artful Argumentation

These argumentative essay topic ideas should offer plenty of inspiration. Argumentative essays are so much fun because you not only have to take a firm stance but also rebut the opposing viewpoint. Addressing a potential rebuttal from the opposition will make your argument stronger. It demonstrates you're not blind to the issue and are prepared to stand strong.

The closest kin to the argumentative essay is the persuasive essay. If you're assigned such a task, take a look at persuasive essay writing made easy . It'll walk you through each and every step to success.

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The Best Controversial Topics for Debates and Essays

General Education

Controversial topics are a good choice for an essay or debate because they immediately draw in the reader or listener. The adage that “controversy sells” is so rooted in society that even the rapper Chamillionaire named his second album after it! Controversial issues are also a good topic because it’s easier to write a strong thesis and find sources to back up your argument . After all, when something is controversial, everybody wants to have their say over it.

However, it’s also important that you address controversial issues with sensitivity and care. Because controversial topics tend to raise emotions, you must walk a thin line between opinion and fact in order to build trust between you and your reader/listener.

In this article, we’re going to give you the best controversial topics you can use for essays and debates—and we’ll explain the controversies for you, too! We’ll also discuss when to use controversial topics, the pros and cons of choosing a controversial issue, and tips for making sure you’re treating a controversial topic with sensitivity and respect.

That’s a lot to cover, so let’s get started!

Controversial topics are issues that can really get people up in arms. (Yes, it's a dad joke. No, we're not sorry.)

What Are Controversial Topics?

If you’ve flipped on a television lately, you’ve probably seen people on the news arguing different sides of an issue. (Occasionally, these arguments can get pretty emotional!) When you see this happening, there’s a good chance that the people you’re watching are discussing a controversial topic. 

Controversial debate topics include subjects that create strong differences of opinion. They are issues that can affect politics, society as a whole, individuals on a personal level, the environment, or any other area of life that people feel strongly about. Additionally, controversial issues often have no clear answer because people’s feelings and personal beliefs are often strongly involved.

3 Pros and 3 Cons of Using Controversial Topics in Essays or Debates 

It might be tempting to pick any old controversial topic and run with it. Not so fast! While controversial topics definitely give you a lot to talk about in an essay or debate, there are some definite drawbacks to dealing with hot-button issues.

Here are the pros and cons you should consider before deciding to use a controversial topic in your work. 

Pro #1: It’s Usually Easy to Find Sources

Everyone wants to have their say on controversial topics, which is great when you need sources to include in your paper! A quick library or Google search will turn up tons of information. It can make that part of writing (or preparing for a debate) much easier. 

Con #1: It Can Be Hard to Find Good Sources

When you Google a controversial source, the results can be overwhelming. While you’re probably going to have tons of hits, they'll be from a wide range of sources like social media, personal blogs, podcasts, and message boards (like Reddit and Quora). Just because something appears high in a Google result doesn’t make it a good source that you can site in a paper or speech.

Good sources are ones that are written by credentialed authors (they are experts in their field) and include reliable, cited evidence. A good place to find good sources are scholarly databases, like JSTOR and ProQuest, since the articles on these databases have been vetted by other experts before they are published. Reputable news outlets can also be good resources, too. 

Pro #2: It’s Easier to Talk About Things That Interest You 

If you care about a topic you probably already know a little bit about it. This is especially true for many controversial issues. After all, they tend to be controversial because many people have opinions on them! If you pick a controversial issue that’s near and dear to your heart, you’ll find that you have a lot to say about it. 

Con #2: It’s Hard to Keep Your Emotions In Check 

If it is a topic you care about a lot, you probably already have strong opinions formed. But in order to build trust with your reader/listener and to be accurate, you need to use neutral language so that your reader/listener can draw their own conclusions based on your work. While it’s tempting to call people out or get heated, those are both pitfalls you should avoid . 

Pro #3: Controversial Issues Capture Attention 

Tackling a subject like mass incarceration, the death penalty, or abortion is a good way to get your audience to sit up and take notice. People want to hear your opinion to see how it does—or doesn’t—match their own. 

Con #3: You Open Yourself Up to Criticism 

On the flip side, if your argument doesn’t align with their beliefs, the people reading or listening to your argument may criticize your opinion or belief because it is not the same as theirs. You’ll have to spend extra time making sure you’ve created a strong argument since people have often spent more time thinking about a controversial topic and are better able to challenge your position. 

How to Pick Good Controversial Topics for Teens

When picking what topic to write about, it’s important that you pick a good strong topic that is relevant and that has an amount of easy to find good sources. When deciding on a topic, try to keep these tips in mind! 

Tip #1: Choose a Topic That Interests You 

It’s easier to work on a subject you enjoy. Don’t use a topic you find boring or have no interest in. Write about a topic you are passionate about, since your own interest will shine through in your writing or speech. Also, when you pick a topic you like, the assignment can actually be fun. Imagine that! 

Tip #2: Be Passionate...But Not Too Passionate

Stay away from topics where you might be too passionate about one side since it can be tough to distance yourself enough to see both sides of the argument. You’ll want to know what good arguments the other side has so that you can defend your position against them. If you're too passionate about a subject, you might miss key details that help you defend your position. Every side has good points—that’s why there’s an argument in the first place!

Tip #3: Make Sure There’s Hard Evidence

Pick a topic where there’s evidence, not just a “he said, she said” kind of thing. Avoid arguments that don’t have any facts or figures backing them up or they are entirely opinion based. Examples of topics that are controversial but lack compelling evidence include government conspiracies or theories that have been proven false, like the Earth being flat or that pineapple belongs on pizza (it doesn’t).

Tip #4: Know Your Audience

If you are writing about controversial debate topics, ask yourself who it is you are trying to persuade. Is it your teacher? A certain segment of the population? If you know who your audience is, you can better tailor your argument to hit on the points they care about. 

For example, say you’re writing an essay about how teacher’s unions are unnecessary. If your audience is your teacher—who's probably in a union!—you’re going to have to work harder to prove your point since they’re more likely to be in favor of unions. (You’ll also need to make sure you’re being fair and respectful to avoid offending your teacher. We’ll talk more about how to do that in a minute.) 

In the example above, knowing your audience can (and should) change the way you write your argument in order to make it as persuasive and convincing as possible. 

Tip #5: Narrow Down Your Topic 

Make sure your topic is broad enough that you have plenty of information sources to choose from but narrow enough that you aren’t overwhelmed by the amount of information. An easy way to narrow a broad topic is to limit it to a time period or geographical location. For instance, let’s say that you want to write an argumentative essay about climate change. Climate change covers a lot of ground, so you could narrow it down to only writing about climate change in the last 15 years. You could narrow it down even more by writing about how climate change has affected a small geographical location, like California or your own city, in the last 15 years.

Gun control is a perennially controversial topic in the United States.

The Best Controversial Topics of 2019

Here are some of the most controversial topics discussed this year. Many of these issues are evergreen topics, which means you’ll be able to find plenty of information for them! 

These are topics related to current political subjects both in the US and abroad. 

Is Brexit a good or bad idea? 

In 2016, the United Kingdom voted to settle the question of whether or not they should leave the European Union. Proponents of Brexit argue that leaving the EU would save money for the nation as they would no longer need to pay a membership fee to the EU. Opponents argue that the UK will lose money due to new trade restrictions. 

Did Russia interfere with the 2016 Presidential Election? 

After Donald Trump won the 2016 Presidential Election , there were several investigative reports published that suggested that Russia used targeted Facebook ads to encourage people to vote for Trump , and Russia may have been the ones who hacked the Democratic National Convention. Trump supporters have been quick to rebuff this claim, arguing that the election results reflect the will of the American population. However, those who are anti-Trump argue that Trump did not legitimately win the election and that the results were due to Russian interference. They cite the fact that Hilary Clinton had a larger popular vote than Trump to support this. 

Should there be stricter gun control?

The United States has experienced more than 200 mass shootings in 2019, and each new incident brings up controversial questions about gun control. Those in favor of gun control argue that more gun laws would reduce gun deaths. Those against gun control argue that the Second Amendment protects their right to own guns and any legislation for stricter gun control would be unconstitutional. 

Should America allow illegal immigrants to become American citizens? 

As more and more immigrants arrive at America’s borders, the debate over immigration becomes even more heated. On the pro side, people argue that illegal immigrants help the economy by paying taxes and that most immigrants came here as asylum seekers, which is legal. Opponents argue that these immigrants have crossed the border illegally and that a large portion of these immigrants are violent criminals and should be sent back to protect American citizens. 

Should the death penalty still be allowed?  

Many states have done away with the death penalty, yet some states still support it. Many have questioned if the death penalty is a moral, ethical, and effective way to deal with crime. On the pro side, the argument is that the death penalty acts as a deterrent to crime and can help bring closure to families affected by heinous criminal activity. On the con side, the argument is that it violates the 8th amendment and that sometimes innocent people have been put to death. 

Should abortion be allowed? 

Recently, several states have enacted new legislation limiting access to abortion. The pro-choice/pro-abortion side argues that women should be allowed to control their bodies without any interference from the government or religious authority. The pro-life/anti-abortion side argues that abortion is murder and inflicts pain and suffering on the unborn fetus. They are also opposed to Roe vs. Wade , a court decision that made abortion legal in the United States.  

Should doctor-assisted suicide be allowed? 

In January of 2019, Hawaii will join six other states in enacting Death with Dignity laws for patients with terminal illnesses . However, unlike in countries like Belgium, Luxembourg, Canada, and the Netherlands, doctor-assisted euthanasia is still illegal according to US federal laws. Many believe it should also be legal on the federal level. Those for doctor-assisted suicide argue that allowing those with chronic pain or terminal illnesses to end their lives is a compassionate act that relieves their suffering. Those opposed argue that it violates the Hippocratic Oath to “do no harm,” and allowing euthanasia is a slippery slope that will lead to doctors deciding who is worthy of life and who is not. 

Should the government legalize recreational marijuana?

As of 2018, there are 11 states that have legalized recreational marijuana: Alaska (2014), California (2016), Colorado (2012), DC (2014), Maine (2016), Massachusetts (2016), Michigan (2018), Nevada (2016), Oregon (2014), Vermont (2018), and Washington (2012). Legal marijuana proponents argue that the War on Drugs was a failed initiative that unfairly affected minority communities,and that marijuana isn’t any worse for you than drinking alcohol. Those against legal marijuana argue that the drug is addictive and leads to a higher percentage of school dropouts, car accidents, and crime.

These are topics based on current controversies happening in the scientific field.

Are humans causing global warming?

As the polar ice caps continue to melt, people question whether or not human activity is responsible for raising the temperature of the Earth . Proponents of this idea argue that due to human-generated waste and carbon dioxide, we are responsible for this rise in temperature. Opponents argue that the earth has gone through many warming and cooling cycles and that human activity is not to blame.

Are GMOs good or bad?

  In recent years there has been an increase in the number of controversial questions raised by GMO, or genetically modified, crops. Those in favor of GMOs, which stands for genetically modified organisms, argue that without genetically modified crops and animals, there would be food shortages; they also argue that GMOs have been around for millennia. Those opposed to GMOs argue that GMOs could be the cause of the rise of cancers and that the pesticides needed to grow GMO crops contribute to pesticide-resistant pests. 

Will work done on artificial intelligence eventually lead to our demise? 

Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming more sophisticated, which raises questions about the ethics and eventual outcome of creating artificial intelligence . Proponents believe artificial intelligence will keep us safer and solve many of the world’s problems; but opponents believe that developing AI might not be ethical, they ask whether or not robots programmed with AI count as  conscious beings and should be given rights, or if AI will eventually lead to humanity’s downfall. 

Should we allow gene editing on human beings? 

2017 saw exciting advances in the science of gene editing with the arrival of CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing method. However, it’s also raised some controversial debate topics regarding the ethics of allowing gene editing. Gene editing proponents argue that gene editing will allow us to cure genetic diseases and prolong life. But opponents argue that the technology will create more social inequity because only the rich will be able to afford it. They also argue that editing the genes of human embryos is tantamount to playing God. 

Are self driving cars really safe?  

In 2018, a car accidentally ran over and killed a pedestrian as she was crossing the street in Tempe, AZ. Despite this, driverless car manufacturers like Tesla and transportation companies like Uber argue that driverless technology is ultimately safer than human piloted transportation. This is due to the fact that driverless cars would feature many sensors and safety features whereas human drivers have a tendency to get distracted or sleepy while driving, and some may be driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. There are many pro and con arguments about the controversial issues related to driverless technology , which makes this a great controversial topic for essays and debates! 

Should anti-vaxxers be forced to vaccinate their kids?

Recently a measles outbreak has spread throughout Europe. According to the World Health Organization, there have been at least 40 measles-related deaths associated with the outbreak. Many blame anti-vaxxers, or parents who believe vaccines cause autism and other illnesses, for the spread of this disease. Those who are pro-vaccine argue that vaccines save lives and by not vaccinating their children , anti-vaxxers are putting others at risk. Anti-vaxxers argue that vaccines can cause serious side effects like autism, seizures, or Guillain-Barre Syndrome. They also argue that getting vaccinated is a personal choice that should be respected by the government.

Do we really need a General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)? 

In April of 2016, the European Union enacted the General Data Protection Regulation, which is designed to protect EU citizens’ personal data. Proponents for the GDPR argue that it will prevent the number of wide-scale data breaches and hacking that occurs on a day to day basis. Opponents argue that the GDPR doesn’t do enough to protect data and that it will negatively impact the economy because of the fines that will be enforced if a company fails to comply with GDPR guidelines. 

Should we grow our meat in a lab? 

Recent advances in technology have allowed scientists to experiment with lab-grown, edible meat that doesn’t require animal slaughter. Supporters of lab grown meat claim it is better for the environment and does away with the moral issues surrounding animal husbandry, including animal abuse and inhumane farming practices. Opponents claim lab grown meat may have adverse health effects on people who eat lab-grown meat, especially since the technology is so new. Opponents also argue that lab-grown meat could end the farming industry and put thousands of people out of work. 

Uber is great when you need a lift...but does it treat its employees fairly?

Society & Culture

These are current topics that involve our day to day lives. 

Should transgendered people be allowed to use the bathroom of their choice? 

Earlier last year, North Carolina passed a law that prohibited transgender people from using the bathroom of their choice based on their expressed gender rather than their biologically assigned sex . The “bathroom bill” is the first of its kind to specifically address the issue of transgender public restroom access. Proponents for the bill argue that allowing biological males and females to use the same restroom will lead to a higher percentage of sexual assault and was a risk to public safety. Opponents argue that the bill is discriminatory.

Is it still okay to use UBER? 

In 2017, UBER was rocked by claims of sexual harassment, sexual discrimination, and false advertising. The hashtag #DeleteUber went viral in January 2017, and many users and drivers boycotted the company. This situation raises two controversial questions. First, what rights do contract workers have in this new, emerging gig economy ? And second, is UBER the victim of cancel culture , or do customers have an ethical obligation to boycott companies with shady practices? 

Cultural appropriation or cultural appreciation? What’s the difference?

Katy Perry has been criticized for her 2017 music video "This Is How We Do” because the singer wore cornrows in her hair. Many have claimed the appearance of a Caucasian woman with a traditionally black hairstyle is cultural appropriation . These opponents argue that because people of color have been discriminated against for wearing traditionally black hairstyles, white women who sport the same hair styles profit from it. However, some argue that without cultural appropriation, many elements of minority cultures have become popularized, like rap music and R&B .  

Should we give men accused of sexual misconduct a second chance? 

In 2017, comedian Louis CK was accused of sexually harassing his female colleagues . Since these accusations went public, Louis CK has tried to rehabilitate his image, and h e has since publicly apologized. But this raises the question of whether we should give men accused of sexual misconduct a second chance if they seem to have learned their lesson. 

Is social media ruining society? 

According to a 2018 survey, approximately 70% of Americans use at least one social media site including Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter . Those in favor of social media argue that it  promotes a sense of community and helps create social interactions. But social media detractors argue that sites like Facebook or Reddit waste time, trigger mental illnesses, and encourage dangerous bullying.

Should people get fired for what they say on social media?

Recently, James Gunn, the director of Guardians of the Galaxy , was fired by Disney because there were several tweets on his Twitter feed they believed were offensive. He is not the only one, either: Roseanne was fired by Netflix after she made an offensive tweet towards politician Valerie Jarrett. This has raised some controversial questions, like whether someone be held professionally accountable for what they say on social media . Proponents for social media accountability argue that what someone posts on social media is a reflection of who they are as a person. Opponents argue that posting on social media is protected by free speech and that the context of the posting should matter. 

Is the #MeToo movement helping or hurting women? 

The #MeToo movement began in 2017 with a series of articles that accused Harvey Weinstein of rape and sexual assault. These articles led to Weinstein’s ostracization from Hollywood and eventually led to criminal investigations into his behavior. The #MeToo movement has brought down several powerful men with accusations of sexual misconduct. But some argue the movement has set the feminist movement back by discouraging companies from hiring women due to their fear of lawsuits. 

Is Gen Z worse than previous generations? 

Someone is always complaining that the generation after them is worse than their generation. As members of Gen Z mature and reach adulthood, they face many criticisms from the preceding generations. For example, d etractors have accused Gen Z of being lazy and introverted. However, others think Gen Z might be the generation that saves the world.  

Arts & Entertainment

These are topics that are currently affecting sports, tv, Hollywood, literature, music, and art.

Should movies and television shows be forced to hire more diverse casts? 

Hollywood has come under fire for “whitewashing” or the act of casting a white actor when the role should have gone to a person of color. An example of this is when Rupert Sanders, director of Ghost in the Shell , cast Scarlett Johansson as the Asian protagonist Major . Opponents of this practice argue that “whitewashing” takes jobs away from deserving POC actors. However, others argue that art should be free of any restrictions or boundaries . 

Should the show 13 Reasons Why have removed its controversial scenes?  

In 2017, Netflix released an original show based on the young adult novel 13 Reasons Why , which focuses on the suicide of 17-year-old Hannah Baker. Parents and educators opposed the release of this show due to the fact that it involved several controversial topics for teens such as suicide and rape. But those that support the show have argued that it provided a way to start conversations with teens about these tough topics . Ultimately, Netflix went back and edited out the controversial scenes. This topic gives you the opportunity to talk about whether mature content like suicide and rape is appropriate in shows aimed toward teenagers. You can also discuss whether Netflix’s removal of the offending scenes is the right decision or not. 

Should male and female actors make the same amount of money? 

In 2018, Hollywood came under fire after the internet learned that Michelle Williams was paid substantially less for her role in “All The Money In The World” than her male co-star, Mark Wahlberg. Some argue that as the bigger star, Whalberg deserved to be compensated at a higher rat e. Others argue that Williams did the same amount of work as Wahlberg and should receive the same amount of pay. This issue plugs into the larger social issue of pay discrepancies based on race and gender.

Should athletes be allowed to kneel during the national anthem? 

People have started to boycott Nike for their commercial featuring Colin Kaepernick . Kaepernick is a San Francisco 49ers quarterback who has received a lot of press for being the first athlete to kneel during the national anthem in protest the treatment of African Americans and minorities in the United States. President Trump has publicly stated that any athlete who kneels during the national anthem is being disrespectful and should be fired. Yet others defend kneeling during the anthem, regarding it as an expression of free speech that’s protected under the First Amendment. 

The 5 Best Tips for Treating Controversial Topics With Sensitivity and Respect

In order to write a good argument and convince your reader/listener to agree with you, you will need to treat your controversial issue with sensitivity and respect. This helps the reader/listener to trust you. 

But that can be really hard when you feel passionately about your topic and your opinions! Here are the best tips for making sure you stick to the facts, not the feelings. 

Tip #1: Avoid Charged Language

An author is accused of using loaded language when they substitute words with positive or negative connotations instead of using more neutral language. Some examples of this are using the word “superior” instead of better, calling the opposition “stupid,” or using biased terminology (“infanticide” vs. “abortion”). While emotional appeals are a great tool to persuade people to your point of view, when they’re used in the wrong way, they come across as overly aggressive and biased. 

Tip #2 : Avoid Logical Fallacies

A logical fallacy is an error in your argument’s logic because it presents the topic’s information in a deceptive way. Below are some common logical fallacies to watch out for.

Straw Man Fallacy: this is when you ignore your opponent’s real argument and instead argue that your opponent believes something easily ridiculed or proved false.

Slippery Slope: this is when you argue that something seemingly benign will lead to an unlikely extreme. 

Generalizations: generalizations are statements about an idea that do not have any facts to support them. They tend to play into stereotypes and often rely on exaggerations or over the top statements.

For more information on logical fallacies and how to avoid them, check out this resource. 

Tip #3: Do Not Attack Your Opponent Personally

This is called an ad hominem fallacy, and is often referred to as “mud-slinging” or “bashing.” When you do this, it implies that the only way you can counter your opponents viewpoints is through personal attacks. (Also, it’s just not cool.) Instead, stick to using facts and figures to show why their argument is wrong.

Tip #4: Avoid Hyperbole, Stereotypes, and Clichés 

These are common issues that crop up in argumentative writing that ultimately weaken your position.

Hyperbole happens when you exaggerate. When you use hyperbole, you risk misrepresenting the issue at hand—which is an argument killer. For example, take this statement: “If we don’t stop climate change now, we’ll all be dead in 10 years.” While climate change is definitely a huge risk to humanity, saying everyone on Earth will die in a decade if we don’t fix is a significant exaggeration. It would be better to say something like, “If we don’t start to solve climate change now, we’re risking the livelihoods and safety of future generations.” This is a more moderate statement that you can back up with facts, like scientists’ belief that climate change will put coastal cities underwater. 

Stereotypes are oversimplified, misinformed, or prejudiced assumptions held about other people or things. For example, a common stereotype is that all women love pink. (Spoiler alert: they don’t.) While stereotypes like this seem harmless, most are not. For example, a stereotype like the idea that all immigrants are criminals is extremely harmful. Stereotypes are not only false, they make you seem biased and ill-informed. 

Finally, clichés are overused or commonplace phrases, themes, or expressions . These are often phrases that have been said so much that they’ve lost all real meaning. For example, the idea that people can “pull themselves up by their bootstraps” is a textbook example of a cliché. Instead, it’s better to explain the idea behind the cliché in more detail. In this case, it would be better to say that people—no matter their station in life—can create opportunities for themselves through hard work.

Tip #5 : Don’t Beat a Dead Horse

Remember that your job is to present them with the facts in an open and honest way. If you have done a good job, your reader or listener will come away with the same opinion as you, or at least more informed. It’s okay to state your opinion in your paper as long as you use other sources to back your opinion up and are fair to the other side. (Also resist the urge to restate your opinion every other sentence—it’s monotonous and doesn’t do much to win your reader over!)  

5 Resources for Finding More Controversial Debate Topics

If you’re not inspired by the topics we’ve already mentioned, don’t worry. There are many other controversial topics out there! Here are some other places you can look to find a topic that’s perfect for your essay or debate. 

#1: ProCon.Org 

You probably noticed that we’ve included links in this article that take you to ProCon.org . That’s because this website is a treasure trove of controversial issues! The website has lists of ideas that they break down into general pro/con lists, and each topic links you research starters. 

#2: National & Local News 

Much of the modern news cycle is devoted to discussing hot-button topics of our time. If you’re looking for topics related to current events, news sources like The New York Times and The Washington Post will help! Also, don’t discount your local news resources, either. They’ll give you valuable information about what’s going on in your community and how larger, national issues are impacting where you live. 

#3: They Say / I Say: The Moves That Matter in Academic Writing (Fourth Edition) by Cathy Birkenstein & Gerald Graff  

Writing argumentative papers where you have to pick (and defend) your perspective is a skill you’ll use throughout high school, college, and beyond. They Say/I Say walks you through everything you need to know to write an argument. Even better: the book uses controversial issues as a way to teach writing, so you’ll get expert instruction on how to use them to write an amazing paper.

#4: Documentaries

Documentaries provide more in-depth perspectives on topics—both historical and contemporary—that have shaped the world. A great documentary can give you a thorough overview of an issue, and often they dig into different perspectives around an event, idea, or historical moment. The PBS series, Frontline , is a good place to start, but don’t be afraid to look at critically acclaimed films (like The Times of Harvey Milk or How to Survive a Plague ) for inspiration as well.  

#5: The Learning Network

The Learning Network , a blog run by The New York Times, is a great resource for students and teachers. They have lots of great resources, and their article on 200 prompts for argumentative writing is amazing for anyone looking for essay or debate topics. The article split into categories by topic and links to articles that can help explain each issue. It’s a great place to find a topic that interests you.

What’s Next?

Controversial topics are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to things you can research and write about for class. Check out our list of 113 amazing research paper topics to put you on the path to an A+ paper grade! ( If you’re looking for speech topics or argumentative essay topics , we’ve got you covered, too.)

Researching a controversial topic is just the first step in the argumentative process. You also have to be able to persuade your reader or listener to believe in your point of view. Here are 3 killer tips to help you write an amazing argumentative essay.

Learning how to read critically, come up with an argument, and communicate it is one of the fundamental skills you’ll need to tackle the writing portions of the SAT and ACT. To make sure you’re prepared, check out our step-by-step guide to the essay portion of the SAT ( and the ACT ).

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.

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218 perfect pros and cons topics to write your paper on.

A pro con topic is bordered on writing a persuasive essay. Topics with pros and cons are about debating the advantages and disadvantages of any subject.

Students examine the advantages and disadvantages of any topics which involve showing their perspectives at the end of the day. This gives room for genuine comparison of a subject as opinionated essays.

This is why there are pro versus con debate topics that show two sides of an argument before a judgment is formed. These two parts present the right information and analyze them.

Pros and Cons Paper Outline

Writing a pros and cons paper can become a challenge not only because there are so many topics to choose from but also because it can be difficult to structure. Preparing an outline can be crucial in writing the perfect pros and cons paper. Check out this sample outline to help you out:

• Introduction: Every successful paper begins with an intro. Introduce your topic. In the case of a pros and cons paper make sure to write out your thesis, which should be a statement that you will be examining the pros and cons of.
• First Body Paragraph: Here you should begin by choosing the pro and con side and focusing on it. Make sure to clearly state the pros and then provide supporting statements.
• Second Body Paragraph: In the second body paragraph you can now shift to the opposite side of the argument. If you wrote about pros, now you can focus on the cons.
• Third Body Paragraph: Finally, in the third paragraph you can provide counterarguments, and make an evaluation of the initial thesis, and if it is more  beneficial or detrimental.
• Conclusion: Summarize your findings and discussion in the conclusion. Repeat your thesis and your evaluation statements.

As students, you may need to create better essays through pro con topics. These are hot pros and cons subjects that require high quality writing skills for expression.

Pros and Cons Ideas

There are a series of existing ideas that can be developed from interesting pros and cons subjects. Your topics could be on any issue you’ve considered before or problems that are affecting the globe at present.

As students of a college or a university, you may need these topics for your semester break assignment. You can awe your professor with these hot pro con topics:

• Examine the pros and cons of the use of computers in the modern world.
• What are the pros and cons of having same-sex parents?
• What are the pros and cons of having a single parent?
• What are the pros and cons of writing adult essays as a teenager?
• What are the pros and cons of studying in a day school as an adult?
• What are the pros and cons of living in the countryside without the knowledge of the city?
• What are the pros and cons of technology in our day-to-day life?
• Examine the pros and cons of physical labor amongst teenagers.
• Analyze the pros and cons of working amongst children in orphanage houses.
• What are the pros and cons of quitting a job and getting fired from the job?
• Weigh the pros and cons of engaging in remote work.
• Examine the pros and cons of mixed marriages and multilingual experiences for kids.
• Weigh the pros and cons of living an imposing parent’s dream.
• Weigh the pros and cons of hiring older employees for physical labor in a manufacturing company.
• Examine the pros and cons of hiring younger employees as school bus drivers.
• What are the pros and cons of public transportation in the US?
• What are the pros and cons of making an order for a ride with a driver you do not know?
• Examine the pros and cons of any business model of your choice.
• Examine the pros and cons of traveling in risky places.
• Examine the pros and cons of being a wildlife fan.
• Examine the pros and cons of working with the government.
• Identify the pros and cons of working with private companies that require that you travel often.
• Examine the pros and cons of the space race during the Cold War
• Analyze the pros and cons of having a business and not being a partner.
• Identify the pros and cons of getting into a partnership with strange people.
• Write the pros and cons of getting an unsecured personal loan.
• Write the pros and cons of learning multiple languages.
• Identify the pros and cons of marrying a woman older than you as a man.
• Identify the pros and cons of pursuing a career you don’t like but fetching money.
• What are the pros and cons of business competition in the digital world?

Good Pros and Cons Topics

Rather than consult a paper help team for your homework pro vs con topics, you can consider many topics in this list. Students are always expected to be bright and creative with topics.

If time doesn’t allow you, you can be creative with these topics. Express your ideas on the following customized pro con topics:

• Identify the pros and cons of having a career in the technical niche.
• What are the pros and cons of online and distance learning?
• Analyze the pros and cons of going on vacations.
• Examine the pros and cons of working with NGOs.
• What are the pros and cons of learning amongst a group of people?
• What are the pros and cons of playing the “Truth or Dare” game?
• Examine the pros and cons of complying with struct rules as students.
• What are the pros and cons of getting vocational training in today’s world?
• What are the pros and cons of using an iPhone rather than an android?
• Examine the pros and cons of traditional and modern teaching methods.
• What are the pros and cons of using the media as an entertainer?
• What are the pros and cons of separating average students from exceptional students in schools?
• What are the pros and cons of having same-sex schools?
• What are the pros and cons of engaging in extracurricular activities?
• Examine the pros and cons of having a part-time job while studying.
• What are the pros and cons of living in a dormitory as students?
• Examine the pros and cons of being a part of a fraternity group.
• Are there any pros and cons to bullying?
• What are the pros and cons of Halloween parties?
• What are the pros and cons of having a long-distance relationship?
• What are the pros and cons of living with parents as adults?
• Examine the pros and cons of living alone as a teenager.
• Identify the pros and cons of encouraging tourism even in dangerous cities.
• Identify the pros and cons of attending strange people’s wedding ceremonies.
• Identify the pros and cons of hooking up.
• Examine the pros and cons of staying married.
• Are there pros and cons of testing on animals?
• What are the pros and cons of residing alone in the woods or forests?
• What are the pros and cons of studying abroad?
• Examine the pros and cons of having an insecure partner, friend, or parent.

Pro Con Paper Topics

As a university student, having pro con topics for your paper could be intriguing. If you want to consider it, you can awe your professors with an intellectual and creative argument.

You can flex your creative muscles around these pro and cons topics through in-depth research:

• Examine the psychological pros and cons of obsessive partners.
• What are the pros and cons of being a tour guide to strange people?
• Examine the pros and cons of doing business with people you do not know before.
• What are the pros and cons of traveling by car?
• What are the pros and cons of hiking alone?
• Examine the pro and cons of visiting unexplored places.
• Examine the pros and cons of having a child early.
• What are the pros and cons of living as a foreigner in a country?
• Examine the pros and cons of listening to music at a concert.
• Examine the pros and cons of going to the cinema.
• What are the pros and cons of taking a break from work?
• Examine the pros and cons of being an only child.
• What are the pros and cons of using an HP laptop to an Apple laptop?
• What are the pros and cons of dieting?
• What are the pros and cons of having a private school?l
• Examine the pros and cons of studying alone.
• Identify the pros and cons of having a terrible drinking habit.
• What are the pros and cons of having a big house?
• What are the pros and cons of living with a dog?
• What are the pros and cons of living and working as a writer?
• Examine the pros and cons of living and eating with a stranger in a private residence.
• Analyze the pros and cons of being a leader.
• Critically diagnose the pros and cons of having a big family.
• Critically examine the pros and cons of having a big house.
• Critically examine the pros and cons of having short nights.
• Critically examine the pros and cons of seeing horror movies.
• What are the pros and cons of having unhealthy eating habits?
• Examine the pros and cons of cooking and eating your food compared to buying
• What are the pros and cons of daily exercise?
• Identify the pros and cons of having different rooms as couples.

Pro Con Controversial Topics

These are topics that could lift eyebrows. These are controversial topics that could cause resentment amongst conservatives.

As students, you must know how to present healthy arguments to drive home your points. You can thus consider:

• The pros and cons of free education.
• The pros and cons of free health care in the US.
• The pros and cons of taking COVID-19 vaccines.
• The pros and cons of purchasing pirate music.
• The pros and cons of drinking beer.
• The pros and cons of believing in feminism.
• Examine the pros and cons of investing in digital currencies like cryptocurrencies.
• The pros and cons of having transgender athletes contest with women athletes born in women’s bodies.
• The pros and cons of plastic surgery.
• The pros and cons of a video game.
• The pros and cons of pornography.
• The pros and cons of having irregular working shifts.
• The pros and cons of having flexible working hours.
• The pros and cons of looking for jobs online.
• The pros and cons of having leisure time.
• The pros and cons of hooking up rather than marriage.
• The pros and cons of receiving government salaries over wages.
• The pros and cons of having more than one sexual partner.
• The pros and cons of working abroad.
• The pros and cons of giving out discounts and other offers as entrepreneurs.

Pros and Cons Issues

You can express reasonable pro con arguments on pressing issues in the global world. These are issues that are challenging and important that this generation solves. Consider these topics as what your teachers will like and write.

• What are the pros and cons of eating out in a restaurant?
• Examine the pros and cons of physical sports in an insecure world.
• Examine the pros and cons of unstable climatic conditions.
• What are the pro and cons of having your house close to the water?
• Examine the pros and cons of windy climates.
• Examine the pros and cons of having different societal classes.
• What are the pros and cons of market and free-market economies?
• Examine the pros and cons of communism and capitalism.
• Examine the pros and cons of democracy.
• Examine the pros and cons of the different voting systems.
• Examine the pros and cons of parliamentary and presidential systems of government.
• What are the pros and cons of having a parliament in your country?
• What are the pros and cons of having women in Parliament?
• What are the pros and cons of having a woman as president?
• Examine the pros and cons of a monarchy.
• Examine the pros and cons of religion.
• Examine the pros and cons of identifying as an atheist.
• What are the pros and cons of genetics in today’s world?
• Examine the pros and cons of cloning.
• Examine the pros and cons of clinical trials on kids.
• Analyze the pros and cons of the internet of things in the interconnected world.
• Examine the pros and cons of globalization in an increasingly anarchical international system.
• Examine the pros and cons of believing in yourself, not God.
• What are the pros and cons of creating networks for your business
• Identify the pros and cons of poor research studies?
• Would you say schooling has pros and cons?
• Would you say having multiple jobs has pros and cons?
• What are your pro and con thoughts on artificial intelligence?
• Express your views on the disadvantages and advantages of animal testing.
• Discuss the pros and cons of keeping pets.

Pro and Con Debate Topics

If you want to engage in intellectual pro and con debates, you can also add your voice to existential issues. Consider these pro and cons topics for an intelligent discussion even in your school. You can also use them for inter-school or class competitions. They are:

• Examine the pros and cons of policing marginalized communities of youths
• What are the pros and cons of abolishing the death penalty

You can also consider these direct topics where you need to weigh the pros and cons:

• There are no moral grounds for legalizing abortion
• There is no peer pressure in abstaining or conceding to violence
• The juvenile factor should be unnecessary when giving judgment on a teen manslaughter
• Cloning should be accepted in every country
• Democracy is the best political system that exists
• Marijuana is okay, and it should be legalized
• Nationalism is baseless and should big be encouraged even amongst the military
• Euthanasia is the best way to help patients whose hopes of recovery are slim
• The minimum wage must be raised to meet the existing crisis
• Domestic policies must be ratified to help low-income earners
• Climate Change remains dangerous and irreversible
• More national parks should be created
• Should Adolf Hitler be branded as a hero or villain to Germans before the end of WWII
• Should having an animal circus be considered an act of animal cruelty
• Genetics unmodified foods are the best choices for any society
• Free speech doesn’t exist in any country
• Every country is corrupt; the level of corruption is only different
• The rates at which taxes accelerate in the US is okay
• Racial inequality is not as challenging as many people think it is
• All white men are racist because it is entrenched in the culture
• Incarceration of minors does nothing but shape them to be better adults
• An aspirant to public offices must be active on social media
• The Facebook ban of Donald Trump was what was supposed to happen
• Donald Trump should be banned for the White House Riot
• There is a low impact of global warming on humanity
• Social networking sites are now used to stalk other peoples
• Religion does more good than harm to people
• There can be no end to wars in the world even if we avoid all-out conflicts

Pros and Cons Topics for Middle School

As a middle school student, you may need pros and cons topics for your level. You don’t need to overthink the things you want to write about.

Your teacher already knows that you have limited experience of the world. You can thus choose any of these topics and give your best in discussing them:

• What are the pros and cons of hot and cold weather conditions for farmers
• What are the pros and cons of having a career in a favored profession
• Would farming have pros and cons?
• What are the pros and cons of having a hobby
• Examine the pros and cons of globalization
• Examine the pros and cons of internet regulations
• Examine the pros and cons of gender stereotypes
• Examine the pros and cons of learning about pop culture
• Examine the pros and cons of having high mortality rates
• What are the pros and cons of video games
• What are the pros and cons of online dating
• What are the pros and cons of reading books and watching movies?
• What are the pros and cons of working without parents permission
• What are the pros and cons of using social networking platforms as a teenager
• What are the pros and cons of war
• What are the pros and cons of lying?
• Does life insurance have short pros and cons?
• What are the pros and cons of health insurance
• Discuss renewable energy’s pros and cons
• Examine the pros and cons of using synthetic materials over plastic
• Discuss the pros and cons of being active on social media
• Discuss the pros and cons of physical dating over online dating
• Identify student loans’ pros and cons
• Identify the pros and cons of nuclear energy
• Discuss the pros and cons of solar energy to the society
• What are the pros and cons of being a pastor’s son?
• Business owning pros and cons
• Examine the pros and cons of learning how to write
• What are the pros and cons of doing your assignment by yourself
• Identify the pros and cons of having a lot of friends

Pros and Cons Topics List

If you want to create brilliant and exceptional topics for your schoolwork, you can consider this topic list. You can choose the following subjects to write on:

• Getting involved in marital affairs
• Earning wages over salaries
• Hiring people for your services over DIY-ing
• Robots in place of work over people
• Having more national holidays
• Having more leisure time at work
• Reducing weekly work hours
• Spending more time with partners than friends
• Working out
• Working hard after high school without Interest in going to college
• Taking a break from school before doing a PhD
• Working with business organizations over creating your company
• The gender differences in sport question
• Making independent or collective choices
• The global economy concerns
• The domination of western economies in third world countries
• The role played by NATO in maintaining or worsening world security
• The effect of pornography

Don’t Want To Do Your Pros and Cons Paper?

With these pro cons topics, you can get quick paper help from reliable writing companies. We are a writing company with teachers and professors creating exceptional and high quality essays. We also offer reliable customer support to answer your questions. If you need a better university certificate, you can hire our writers for cheap pay with a quick turnaround time. You can finish college with a great grade through our helpful team of writers once you’re ready to begin.

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110+ Controversial Debate Topics to Challenge Your Students

Don’t be surprised when the discussion gets heated…

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

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

Education Controversial Debate Topics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What controversial debate topics do you use with your students? Come share in the WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook .

Plus, 35 strong persuasive writing examples (speeches, essays, ads, and more) ., you might also like.

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Argumentative and Persuasive Presentations

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Argumentative & persuasive presentations.

To be effective, an  argumentative  essay must contain elements to help persuade the audience to see things from your perspective. These components include a compelling topic, a balanced assessment, strong evidence, and persuasive language.

Find a Good Topic and Point of View

To find a  good topic  for an argumentative essay, consider several issues and choose a few that spark at least two solid, conflicting points of view. As you look over a  list of topics , find one that really piques your interest, as you'll be more successful if you're passionate about your topic.

Once you have selected a topic you feel strongly about, make a list of points for both sides of the argument. When shaping an argument you'll have to explain why your belief is reasonable and logical, so list points you can use as evidence for or against an issue. Ultimately, determine your side of the argument and make sure you can back up your point of view with reasoning and evidence. Work against the opposing point of view and prove why your stance is correct.

Gather Evidence

One of your essay's first objectives will be to assess both sides of your issue. Consider strong arguments for both your side, as well as the "other" side—in order to shoot their statements down. Provide evidence without drama; sticking to the facts and clear examples that support your stance.

You may look for research that provides statistics on your topic that support your reasoning, as well as examples of how your topic impacts people, animals, or even the Earth. Interviewing experts on your topic can also help you structure a compelling argument.

Write the Essay

Once you've given yourself a solid foundation of information, begin to craft your essay. An argument essay, as with all essays, should contain three parts: the  introduction , the body, and the  conclusion . The length of paragraphs in these parts will vary depending on the length of your essay assignment.

As in any essay, the first paragraph of your argument essay should introduce the topic with a brief explanation of your topic, some background information, and a  thesis statement . In this case, your thesis is a statement of your position on a specific controversial topic.

Present Both Sides of the Controversy

The body of your essay should contain the meat of your argument. Go into more detail about the two sides of your topic and state the strongest points of the counter-side of your issue.

After describing the "other" side, present your own viewpoint and then provide evidence to show why your  position  is the correct one. Work to discredit the other side using some of the information you discovered in your research. Choose your strongest evidence and present your points one by one. Use a mix of evidence, from statistics to other studies and anecdotal stories.

A strong conclusion can help summarize your point of view and reinforce with your reader why your stance is the best option. You might consider reserving one overwhelmingly shocking statistic for the conclusion, one that leaves no room for doubt in your reader's mind. At the very least, use this final paragraph or two as an opportunity to restate your position as the most sensible one.

When writing your essay, consider these tips to help craft the most rational and poignant argument for your readers. Avoid emotional language that can sound irrational. Know the difference between a logical conclusion and an emotional point of view.

Don't fabricate evidence and don't use​ ​ untrustworthy sources  for evidence, and be sure to  cite your sources .

Courtesy of ThoughtCo.com  https://www.thoughtco.com/write-an-argument-essay-1856986

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