good essay topics for debate

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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150+ Debate Topics To Spark Conversations & Conquer Minds

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Interesting Debate Topics for College Students

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

Interesting and Controversial Debate Topics 

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

Debate Topics For High-School Students

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

Unique Topics for University Students

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

Political Debate Topics

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

Topics to Debate on Environment

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

Debate Topics on Ethics

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

Easy Debate Topics on Education

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

Conversational Debate Topics 

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

What is a Debate?

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

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

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

Types of Debates:

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

Rebuttal Debate

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

Example of a rebuttal debate:

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

Lincoln-Douglas Debate

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

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

One-Rebuttal Debate

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

Example of one-rebuttal debate:

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

Public Forum Debate

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

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

Cross-Examination Debate

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

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

Oregon-Oxford Debate

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

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

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

Significance of the Right Debate Topics.

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

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

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

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

How to Choose Good Debate Topics? A Quick Guide 

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

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

Tips and Techniques to SpellBound Your Audience 

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

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

Conclusion:

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

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300 Questions and Images to Inspire Argument Writing

Recent Student Opinion and Picture Prompts, categorized by topic, to help students discover the issues that matter to them.

By The Learning Network

Update: This list is available as a PDF .

If you’ve taught argument writing with our resources in the past, you already know we ask a fresh question every day as part of our long-running Student Opinion series . Teenagers around the world are invited to visit and post their thoughts on topics including politics, medical ethics, fashion, sports and entertainment.

We’ve rounded up lists of these prompts in the past, but this year we’re doing something new: Below you can find a categorized collection of all our recent, relevant Student Opinion questions, but alongside them we’re also including related Picture Prompts. These short, image-based forums are accessible to learners of all ages, but still provide engaging jumping-off points to help students make and support claims.

For instance, let’s say your class is interested in meme culture. A Student Opinion question asks, “ Do Memes Make the Internet a Better Place? ” and invites students to read and weigh in on a New York Times article that examines the role of memes in how teenagers process world events. Over 700 students have already submitted their thoughts .

But if you scan the “Technology and Social Media” category below, you’ll see we also have a Picture Prompt that asks a more direct, concrete question: “ What are your favorite memes? ” For many, that may be a fun, comfortable place to start.

So give your students both “voice and choice” by inviting them to find the questions and format that speak to them. All the prompts below are still open for comment. We look forward to seeing which ones inspire the most passionate arguments, and we invite your class to submit the results to our Eighth Annual Editorial Contest .

Argumentative Prompt Topics

Technology & social media, coronavirus, college & career, mental & physical health, race & gender, parenting & childhood, ethics & morality, government & politics, other questions.

Article-Based Prompts

1. How Worried Should We Be About Screen Time During the Pandemic? 2. How Do You Feel About Cancel Culture? 3. Do Memes Make the Internet a Better Place? 4. Does Online Public Shaming Prevent Us From Being Able to Grow and Change? 5. How Young Is Too Young to Use Social Media? 6. Where Should We Draw the Line Between Community Health and Safety and Individual Liberty and Privacy? 7. Do You Think Online Conspiracy Theories Can Be Dangerous? 8. What Do You Think of the Decision by Tech Companies to Block President Trump? 9. Should the Adults in Your Life Be Worried by How Much You Use Your Phone? 10. Is Your Phone Love Hurting Your Relationships? 11. Do You Trust Facebook? 12. Do You Think Recreational Drones Are Safe? 13. Should Kids Be Social Media Influencers? 14. Does Grammar Still Matter in the Age of Twitter? 15. Should Texting While Driving Be Treated Like Drunken Driving? 16. How Do You Think Technology Affects Dating?

Image-Based Prompts

17. Online Video Games : Does more need to be done to make online gaming communities safer? 18. A Computer in Everything : Do “smart” devices worry you? 19. Snail Mail : Do you think handwritten cards and letters still have value in the digital age? 20. Cyberbullying : Should social media companies do more to prevent online harassment? 21. Phone Manners : Are there times when you think using your phone while you’re with other people is rude? 22. Alarm Clocks : Are there any “dumb” devices that you think are better than “smart” devices? 23. Phone Warnings : Should tech devices come with addiction advisories? 24. Phones in Church : Are there some places where phones just don’t belong? 25. Driverless Cars : What do you think about driverless cars? 26. Texting While Walking : Should looking at your phone while crossing the street be illegal? 27. Device Addiction? : As a society, are we too addicted to our devices? 28. ‘A Man Needs His Nuggs’ : What do you think of Carter Wilkerson’s quest, and its results? 29. Soothing Video Games : Can video games intended to calm the mind be fun? Worthwhile? 30. Our Lives on Social Media : How much do you think we can judge our collective happiness by what is posted on social media? 31. ‘Bracelet of Silence’ : Would you wear privacy armor? 32. Baby Yoda : What are your favorite memes? 33. Tesla’s ‘Cybertruck’ : What do you think of this “pickup of the future”? 34. The ‘Bird Box’ Challenge : What do you think of social media challenges like this one?

35. Should Media Literacy Be a Required Course in School? 36. Should Schools Be Able to Discipline Students for What They Say on Social Media? 37. How Should Schools Hold Students Accountable for Hurting Others? 38. Should Schools Provide Free Pads and Tampons? 39. Can Empathy Be Taught? Should Schools Try to Help Us Feel One Another’s Pain? 40. When the Pandemic Ends, Will School Change Forever? 41. Should Schools Change How They Grade Students During the Pandemic? 42. Should Students Be Monitored When Taking Online Tests? 43. Should There Still Be Snow Days? 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?

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 think 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?

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?

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?

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 Is Your Reaction to 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?

105. Jack-of-All-Trades : Is it better to focus on one thing early in life and get really good at it?

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?

116. Optimism : Is your glass half-empty or half-full? 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?

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?

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? 137. Unisex Clothing : Should clothing labeling be unisex? 138. Feminism : Do you consider yourself a feminist? 139. Gender and ‘Genderless’ : Do you think that gender is binary?

140. What Are the Greatest Songs of All Time? 141. Should Museums Return Looted Artifacts to Their Countries of Origin? 142. How Do You Feel About Censored Music? 143. What Role Should Celebrities Have During the Coronavirus Crisis? 144. Can You Separate Art From the Artist? 145. Are There Subjects That Should Be Off-Limits to Artists, or to Certain Artists in Particular? 146. Should Art Come With Trigger Warnings? 147. Should Graffiti Be Protected? 148. Is the Digital Era Improving or Ruining the Experience of Art? 149. Are Museums Still Important in the Digital Age? 150. In the Age of Digital Streaming, Are Movie Theaters Still Relevant? 151. Is Hollywood Becoming More Diverse? 152. What Stereotypical Characters Make You Cringe? 153. Do We Need More Female Superheroes? 154. Do Video Games Deserve the Bad Rap They Often Get? 155. Should Musicians Be Allowed to Copy or Borrow From Other Artists? 156. Is Listening to a Book Just as Good as Reading It? 157. Is There Any Benefit to Reading Books You Hate?

158. Hologram Musicians : Which departed artists would you like to see perform live? 159. Movie Theaters : In the age of digital streaming, are movie theaters still relevant? 160. ‘The Image of the Revolution’ : What is it about this photograph that makes it so powerful? 161. Book Covers : What are your favorite book covers? Why? 162. Fashion Trends : What are your favorite fashion trends? What trends do you hate? 163. Fashion Comebacks : What trends from the past would you like to see revived? 164. Murals : Can art be an act of resistance? 165. An 18-Karat Throne : Is this art? 166. A Hug Seen Around the World : Why do you think this image became so popular so quickly? 167. The Role of Public Broadcasting : Do you think programs like “Sesame Street” make the U.S. smarter, stronger and safer? 168. Best Books? : What have you read and loved this year?

169. Should Girls and Boys Sports Teams Compete in the Same League? 170. Should College Athletes Be Paid? 171. Are Youth Sports Too Competitive? 172. Is It Selfish to Pursue Risky Sports Like Extreme Mountain Climbing? 173. How Should We Punish Sports Cheaters? 174. Should Technology in Sports Be Limited? 175. Should Blowouts Be Allowed in Youth Sports? 176. Are Some Youth Sports Too Intense? 177. Does Better Sports Equipment Unfairly Improve Athletic Ability? 178. Is It Offensive for Sports Teams and Their Fans to Use Native American Names, Imagery and Gestures?

179. Brady’s Big Move : How do you feel about Tom Brady leaving the Patriots? 180. Tiger Woods Wins : What are the greatest comebacks in history? 181. Referees : Do sports officials deserve more respect? 182. $430 Million Deal : Is any athlete worth that amount of money? 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?

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?

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? 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?

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?

227. World’s Big Sleep Out : What lengths would you go to in support of a worthy cause? 228. Tipping : Do you leave a tip whenever you’re asked to? 229. Cash Reward : Should you accept a cash reward for doing the right thing? 230. Cheating : Would you tell if you caught your classmates cheating? 231. Do Not Resuscitate : Should doctors have tried to revive this man? 232. Hitler and History : Should the bunker where Hitler killed himself be a tourist attraction? 233. Solving Global Problems : As the head of a global foundation, what problem would you solve?

234. Should the Death Penalty Be Abolished? 235. If You Were a Member of Congress, Would You Vote to Impeach President Trump? 236. Who Do You Think Should Be Person of the Year for 2020? 237. Should the United States Decriminalize the Possession of Drugs? 238. What Would You Do First if You Were the New President? 239. Does Everyone Have a Responsibility to Vote? 240. How Should We Remember the Problematic Actions of the Nation’s Founders? 241. Do You Care Who Sits on the Supreme Court? Should We Care? 242. Is the Electoral College a Problem? Does It Need to Be Fixed? 243. Are Presidential Debates Helpful to Voters? Or Should They Be Scrapped? 244. Is Your Generation Doing Its Part to Strengthen Our Democracy? 245. Should We All Be Able to Vote by Mail? 246. What Issues in the 2020 Presidential Race Are Most Important to You? 247. Do You Think the American Dream Is Real? 248. Should Plastic Bags Be Banned Everywhere? 249. Does the United States Owe Reparations to the Descendants of Enslaved People? 250. Do You Think It Is Important for Teenagers to Participate in Political Activism? 251. Should the Voting Age Be Lowered to 16? 252. What Should Lawmakers Do About Guns and Gun Violence? 253. Should Confederate Statues Be Removed or Remain in Place? 254. Does the U.S. Constitution Need an Equal Rights Amendment? 255. Should National Monuments Be Protected by the Government? 256. Should Free Speech Protections Include Self Expression That Discriminates? 257. How Important Is Freedom of the Press? 258. Should Ex-Felons Have the Right to Vote? 259. Should Marijuana Be Legal? 260. Should the United States Abolish Daylight Saving Time? 261. Should the U.S. Ban Military-Style Semiautomatic Weapons? 262. Should the U.S. Get Rid of the Electoral College? 263. What Do You Think of President Trump’s Use of Twitter? 264. Should Celebrities Weigh In on Politics? 265. Why Is It Important for People With Different Political Beliefs to Talk to Each Other? 266. Should Athletes Speak Out On Social and Political Issues?

267. Government Buildings : Should they all look like the Lincoln Memorial? 268. Oprah for President : Would you vote for her if you could? 269. Peaceful Protesting : In what ways can you demonstrate peacefully to express your views? 270. Student Climate Strikes : What issues do you think deserve more attention? 271. Pennies : Should the United States get rid of the penny? 272. Mandatory Voting? : Should citizens who are 18 or older be required to vote? 273. Dabbing in Congress : Should this teenager have dabbed in his father’s official swearing-in photo? 274. Baby Bonds : Should the government give money to babies?

275. We Document Life’s Milestones. How Should We Document Death? 276. Does Reality TV 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?

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? 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?

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• Writing Tips

50 Argumentative Essay Topics for Students

4-minute read

• 11th June 2022

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

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

●  Does texting hinder interpersonal communication skills?

●  Should there be laws against using devices while driving?

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

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

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

●  Is AI helping or hurting society?

●  Should cyber-bullying carry legal consequences?

●  Should Supreme Court justices be elected?

●  Is war always a political decision?

●  Should people join a political party?

●  Is capitalism ethical?

●  Is the electoral college an effective system?

●  Should prisoners be allowed to vote?

●  Should the death penalty be legal?

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

●  Is healthcare a fundamental human right?

●  Should vaccinations be mandated for children?

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

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

●  Should abortion be legal?

●  Is it ethical to perform medical experiments on animals?

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

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

Mental Healthcare

●  What causes the stigma around mental health?

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

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

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

●  Discuss the effect of physical activity on mental health.

●  Should sports be segregated by gender?

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

●  Are professional athletes overpaid?

●  Should college athletes be paid?

●  Should sports betting be legal?

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

●  Should graffiti be considered art or vandalism?

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

●  Should schools be required to offer art courses?

●  Is art necessary to society?

●  Should schools require uniforms?

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

●  Do standardized tests effectively measure intelligence?

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

●  Should higher education be free?

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

●  Are children better off in two-parent households?

●  Should LGBTQ+ partners be allowed to adopt?

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

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

●  Does helicopter parenting help or hurt children?

●  Should parents monitor their children’s Internet use?

Proofreading & Editing

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

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• Grades 6-12
• School Leaders

Learn How to Support Stressed and Anxious Students.

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.

125 High School Debate Topics To Challenge Every Student

Learn how to argue with logic instead of emotion. Continue Reading

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419 Controversial Debate Topics & Good Ideas

18 January 2024

last updated

Controversial debate topics are the heart of spirited discourse, often creating polarizing viewpoints on sensitive issues. They span a range of subject areas, including politics, ethics, technology, religion, education, and human rights. Some topics, like abortion, gun control, capital punishment, and climate change, invoke intense debates reflecting divergent societal values. In technology, various subjects, such as artificial intelligence (AI) development, data privacy, and genetic engineering, stir up controversy. Ethical dilemmas, including euthanasia and animal rights, spark impassioned discussions. While controversial debates can sometimes breed conflict, they also challenge individuals to think critically, examine their own beliefs, and develop empathy for contrasting perspectives. Despite the potential for disagreement, controversial debate topics are crucial in promoting societal growth, open-mindedness, and democratic dialogue.

Good Controversial Debate Questions

• Impacts of Social Media on Society: Progress or Peril?
• Universal Basic Income: A Solution or a Trap?
• Climate Change: Human-Caused Disaster or Natural Cycle?
• Cryptocurrency: The Future of Finance or a Bubble?
• Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs): Scientific Achievement or Health Risk?
• Animal Rights: Should They Match Human Rights?
• Physician-Assisted Suicide: Compassion or Slippery Slope?
• Censorship in Media: Necessary for Security or a Threat to Freedom?
• Vaccination Mandates: Public Health Necessity or Personal Freedom Invasion?
• Colonizing Mars: Next Frontier or Misplaced Priorities?
• Advanced AI: Promising Technology or Potential Threat?
• Death Penalty: Justice Served or Inhuman Practice?
• Surveillance State: Security Measure or Privacy Violation?
• Designer Babies: Medical Breakthrough or Ethical Nightmare?
• Immigration Policies: Humanitarian Obligation or National Security Issue?
• Nuclear Energy: Sustainable Solution or Dangerous Gamble?
• Organ Trade: Life-Saver or Morally Unacceptable?
• Reality TV: Harmless Entertainment or Detriment to Society?
• Modern Art: True Expression or Pretentious Nonsense?
• Drones in Warfare: Technological Advantage or Unethical Practice?
• Legalizing Prostitution: Harm Reduction or Social Decline?
• Freedom of Speech: Unrestricted or With Limitations?
• Capitalism vs. Socialism: Which Fosters Greater Equality?
• Extraterrestrial Life: Probability or Wishful Thinking?
• Bioengineered Organ Transplants: Promising Solution or Ethical Dilemma?
• Cybersecurity: Are Governments Doing Enough?
• Alternative Medicine: Valid Health Solution or Placebo Effect?
• Childhood Vaccinations: Obligatory or Parental Choice?
• Online Privacy: A Right or a Myth?
• School Uniforms: Promoting Equality or Suppressing Individuality?

Easy Controversial Debate Topics

• Human Cloning: Medical Revolution or Moral Mistake?
• Factory Farming: Necessity or Animal Cruelty?
• Gun Control: Safety Measure or Infringement on Rights?
• Fast Food: Convenience or Health Hazard?
• Celebrity Culture: Harmless Fun or Toxic Obsession?
• Virtual Reality: Educational Tool or Social Isolation Catalyst?
• Plastic Surgery: Self-Improvement or Unnecessary Vanity?
• Cultural Appropriation: Appreciation or Exploitation?
• Space Exploration: Investment in Future or Waste of Resources?
• Mandatory Voting: Civic Duty or Infringement of Freedom?
• Minimum Wage: Livelihood Support or Economic Burden?
• Artificial Sweeteners: Safe Alternative or Health Risk?
• Euthanasia: Right to Die or Ethical Issue?
• Homeschooling: Effective Education or Socialization Challenge?
• Capital Punishment: Deterrent for Crime or Inhuman Practice?
• Polygamy: Personal Choice or Societal Harm?
• Reality of Ghosts: Supernatural Belief or Scientific Explanation?
• Public Smoking: Personal Right or Public Health Hazard?
• Renewable Energy: Realistic Replacement or Overhyped Solution?
• Quantitative Easing: Economic Savior or Long-Term Problem?
• Veganism: Lifestyle Choice or Moral Obligation?
• Cannabis Legalization: Medical Necessity or Gateway Drug?
• Gambling: Leisure Activity or Addiction Risk?
• War on Drugs: Effective Policy or Failed Approach?
• Junk Food Tax: Health Measure or Unfair Burden?
• Telecommuting: Work-Life Balance or Productivity Killer?
• Single-Sex Education: Focused Learning or Gender Stereotyping?
• Autonomous Vehicles: Safety Enhancement or Job Killer?

Current Controversial Debate Topics

• Steroids in Sports: Unfair Advantage or Personal Choice?
• Quantum Computing: The Next Revolution or Overhyped Technology?
• Ghost Hunting: Genuine Research or Pseudoscience?
• Nationalism: Patriotism or Threat to Global Unity?
• Violent Video Games: Entertainment or Behavioral Risk?
• Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: Revolution or Risk?
• Corporate Social Responsibility: Ethical Obligation or Marketing Strategy?
• Aging Population: Burden or Wisdom Resource?
• Caste System: Cultural Tradition or Social Injustice?
• Reparations for Slavery: Justice Served or Impractical Solution?
• Universal Healthcare: Human Right or Economic Burden?
• Whistleblowing: Ethical Duty or Betrayal?
• Modern Architecture: Artistic Evolution or Loss of Tradition?
• Stem Cell Research: Medical Breakthrough or Ethical Breach?
• Life Extension Technologies: Promising Future or Societal Disruption?
• Consumerism: Driving Economy or Environmental Hazard?
• Carbon Tax: Environmental Solution or Economic Disadvantage?
• Monarchy: Cultural Heritage or Outdated Institution?
• Exploitation of Natural Resources: Economic Necessity or Environmental Disaster?
• Child Beauty Pageants: Innocent Fun or Unhealthy Pressure?
• Sex Education in Schools: Necessary Curriculum or Parental Responsibility?
• 3D Printing of Firearms: Technological Freedom or Safety Risk?
• Human Microchipping: Futuristic Convenience or Privacy Concern?
• Colonization of Space: Next Big Leap or Ethical Dilemma?
• Digital Nomad Lifestyle: Freedom or Instability?
• Universal Language: Unifying Idea or Cultural Erasure?

Most Controversial Debate Topics

• Climate Change: Is It Primarily Caused by Human Activity?
• Genetic Engineering: Ethical Implications of Manipulating DNA
• Abortion: Right to Choose or Right to Life?
• Gun Control: Balancing Individual Rights and Public Safety
• Immigration: Open Borders vs. National Security
• Vaccinations: Mandatory or Personal Choice?
• Animal Testing: Necessary Evil or Inhumane Practice?
• Affirmative Action: Equality or Reverse Discrimination?
• Euthanasia: Assisted Suicide as a Moral Dilemma
• School Prayer: Separation of Church and State
• Nuclear Energy: Clean Power or Environmental Risk?
• Internet Privacy: Balancing Security and Personal Rights
• Surveillance: Necessary for Security or Invasion of Privacy?
• Censorship: Protecting Society or Restricting Free Speech?
• Same-Sex Marriage: Equality or Traditional Values?
• Drug Legalization: Addressing Addiction or Promoting Harm?
• Universal Basic Income: Eradicating Poverty or Encouraging Dependency?
• Parental Rights: Balancing Autonomy and Child Protection
• Pornography: Freedom of Expression or Harmful Industry?

World Controversy Topics

• Climate Change: Impact on Global Economy
• Humanitarian Crisis in Yemen: International Response
• Nuclear Disarmament: Achieving Global Security
• Genetic Engineering: Ethical Implications
• Artificial Intelligence: Job Displacement Concerns
• Social Media: Privacy and Data Protection
• Immigration Policies: Balancing National Security and Human Rights
• Universal Basic Income: Addressing Income Inequality
• Antibiotic Resistance: Tackling the Global Health Threat
• Deforestation: Preserving Biodiversity and Ecosystems
• LGBTQ+ Rights: Striving for Equality Worldwide
• Vaccine Mandates: Public Health vs. Personal Liberty
• Cybersecurity: Safeguarding Critical Infrastructure
• Genetically Modified Organisms: Food Safety and Consumer Choice
• Income Taxation: Fairness in Wealth Distribution
• Autonomous Weapons: The Ethics of AI in Warfare
• Privacy vs. Surveillance: Protecting Civil Liberties
• Indigenous Land Rights: Preserving Cultural Heritage
• International Trade: Fairness and Global Economic Imbalances

Unique Lists of 296 Popular Controversial Debate Topics

School and education debate topics.

• Standardized Testing: Effective or Counterproductive?
• The Importance of Arts Education in Schools
• Should Schools Teach Financial Literacy?
• The Impact of Homework on Students’ Learning
• Bilingual Education: Benefits and Challenges
• Should Schools Implement Uniform Policies?
• The Role of Physical Education in School Curriculum
• Teaching Critical Thinking Skills in Schools
• The Pros and Cons of Year-Round Schooling
• Should Schools Teach Sex Education?
• The Significance of Environmental Education in Schools
• Should Schools Incorporate Meditation and Mindfulness Practices?
• Teaching Coding and Computer Science in Schools
• The Importance of Early Childhood Education
• Should Schools Eliminate Letter Grades?
• Benefits of Outdoor Education and Field Trips
• The Impact of Gender-Segregated Schools
• Should Schools Teach Creationism Alongside Evolution?
• The Role of Teachers’ Unions in Education
• Benefits of Extracurricular Activities in Schools
• Should Schools Implement Zero-Tolerance Policies for Bullying?

Fun and Funny Debate Topics

• Aliens’ Preference: “Star Wars” or “Star Trek”?
• The Superior Sandwich Spread: Peanut Butter or Jelly?
• Toilet Paper Orientation: Over or Under?
• Cats vs. Dogs: Who Rules the Internet?
• The Greatest Superpower: Flying or Invisibility?
• Pineapple on Pizza: Delicious Addition or Culinary Blasphemy?
• Ideal Pets: Miniature Dinosaurs or Giant Insects?
• Shower Singing: Talent Showcase or Noise Pollution?
• Deciding Superhero Dominance: Batman or Superman?
• Santa Claus: Should He Be On a Diet?
• Real Unicorns: Rainbow-Colored or Invisible?
• Zombies Versus Vampires: Who Wins the Undead Olympics?
• Robot Uprising: Will They Enforce Mandatory Dance Parties?
• Dinosaurs: Did They Really Evaporate or Just Learn to Hide?
• Bigfoot’s Existence: True or Simply Misplaced Hairy Humans?
• The Truth Behind Bermuda Triangle: Alien Base or Giant Sea Monster?
• Socks With Sandals: Fashion Forward or Faux Pas?
• Spooning: Big Spoon or Little Spoon?
• Fast Food Mascots: Who Would Win in a Fight?
• Ghosts: Misunderstood Entities or Pranksters of the Afterlife?
• Nessie: Scottish Tourist Trap or Shy Marine Celebrity?
• Fairies: Just Insects in Disguise or Truly Magical Creatures?

Controversial Speech Topics

• The Importance of Vaccination in Public Health
• Capital Punishment: Justifiable or Inhumane?
• Is Climate Change a Man-Made Crisis?
• The Role of Government in Controlling Drug Use
• Is Affirmative Action Necessary for Achieving Equality?
• The Moral Implications of Cloning
• Gun Control: Balancing Safety and Individual Rights
• Artificial Intelligence: Enhancing Society or Endangering Humanity?
• Animal Rights: Ethical Treatment or Human Superiority?
• Affirmative Action: Promoting Equality or Reverse Discrimination?
• Privacy in the Digital Age: Individual Rights or National Security?
• Genetic Engineering: Scientific Advancement or Playing God?
• Nuclear Energy: Sustainable Solution or Risky Technology?
• Capitalism: Economic Prosperity or Widening Wealth Gap?
• Censorship: Protecting Society or Suppressing Free Expression?
• School Uniforms: Enhancing Discipline or Infringing on Individuality?
• Euthanasia: Compassionate Choice or Ethical Dilemma?
• Marijuana Legalization: Personal Freedom or Public Health Concern?
• Religion in Politics: Ensuring Morality or Breaching Secularism?
• Internet Privacy: Personal Rights or Necessary Surveillance?
• Gender Quotas: Promoting Equality or Discriminating Against Merit?
• Animal Testing: Scientific Progress or Cruelty to Animals?

Controversial Debate Topics on Current Events

• Government Surveillance: Balancing Security and Privacy
• Social Media’s Influence on Politics: A Double-Edged Sword
• Mandatory Vaccinations: Public Health vs. Personal Freedom
• Wealth Inequality: Addressing the Gap Between Rich and Poor
• Climate Change: Urgent Action or Overblown Concern?
• Gun Control: Striking the Right Balance for Safety
• Cancel Culture: Freedom of Speech and Consequences
• Immigration Policies: Navigating Border Control and Humanitarianism
• Universal Basic Income: Solving Poverty or Discouraging Work?
• Artificial Intelligence: Potential Benefits and Ethical Dilemmas
• Medical Marijuana: Balancing Medical Use and Legalization
• Affirmative Action: Promoting Diversity or Reverse Discrimination?
• Police Brutality: Accountability and Reform in Law Enforcement
• Online Privacy: Data Collection and Digital Surveillance
• Animal Rights: Balancing Welfare and Human Interests
• Brexit: The Implications of Britain’s Departure From the European Union
• Genetic Engineering: Ethical Considerations and Potential Advancements
• Education Reform: Rethinking Traditional Teaching Methods
• Capital Punishment: Retribution, Deterrence, or Inhumane?
• Nuclear Weapons: Disarmament, Non-Proliferation, or Necessary Evil?

Controversial Topics for Discussion

• Artificial Intelligence: Enhancing or Threatening Human Existence?
• Climate Change: Natural Phenomenon or Human-Caused Crisis?
• Vaccinations: Public Health or Individual Choice?
• Capital Punishment: Justifiable Deterrent or Inhumane Practice?
• Genetic Engineering: Progress or Ethical Dilemma?
• Nuclear Energy: Sustainable Solution or Environmental Hazard?
• Gun Control: Necessary Regulation or Infringement of Rights?
• Immigration: Integration or National Security Concern?
• Animal Testing: Scientific Advancement or Cruelty to Animals?
• Social Media: Empowering Communication or Breeding Ground for Misinformation?
• Marijuana Legalization: Medicinal Benefits or Gateway to Substance Abuse?
• Freedom of Speech: Protected Right or Catalyst for Hate Speech?
• Privacy in the Digital Age: Individual Privacy or Government Surveillance?
• Same-Sex Marriage: Equality or Religious Opposition?
• Euthanasia: Compassionate End-of-Life Choice or Slippery Slope?
• Affirmative Action: Addressing Historical Inequality or Reverse Discrimination?
• Education: Public or Private Funding and Accountability?
• Abortion: Women’s Right to Choose or Right to Life?
• Nuclear Weapons: Deterrence or Global Threat?
• Income Inequality: Redistribution of Wealth or Incentive for Success?

Debate Topics on Social and Political Issues

• Climate Change: Mitigation Strategies and Global Responsibility
• Government Surveillance: Balancing Security and Privacy Rights
• Income Inequality: Addressing the Wealth Gap
• Education Reform: Improving Access and Quality
• Gun Control: Stricter Regulations for Safer Communities
• Gender Equality: Advancing Women’s Rights Worldwide
• Immigration Policies: Protecting Borders vs. Humanitarian Considerations
• Online Privacy: Protecting Personal Data in the Digital Age
• Voting Rights: Ensuring Fair and Accessible Elections
• Nuclear Weapons: Disarmament and Non-Proliferation Efforts
• Media Bias: Freedom of the Press vs. Objective Reporting
• Racial Justice: Combating Systemic Racism and Discrimination
• Political Campaign Financing: Curbing the Influence of Money
• Drug Legalization: Examining the Impact of Policy Changes
• Artificial Intelligence: Ethical Implications and Regulation
• LGBTQ+ Rights: Striving for Equality and Inclusivity
• International Trade: Benefits and Consequences of Globalization
• Censorship: Protecting Freedom of Expression vs. Harmful Content
• Police Reform: Balancing Accountability and Public Safety
• Electoral Systems: Evaluating the Effectiveness of Different Models

Controversial Topics in America: The United States (US)

• Gun Control: Stricter Regulations and Second Amendment Rights
• Immigration Policies: Balancing National Security and Humanitarian Concerns
• Healthcare Reform: Public Option vs. Private Insurance
• Death Penalty: Ethics, Retribution, and Deterrence
• Marijuana Legalization: Medical Benefits and Societal Impact
• Affirmative Action: Equality vs. Meritocracy
• Police Brutality: Accountability and Reform
• LGBTQ+ Rights: Discrimination vs. Religious Freedom
• Abortion: Reproductive Rights and Fetal Personhood
• Internet Privacy: Surveillance and National Security
• Electoral College: Representation and Popular Vote
• Vaccinations: Public Health and Individual Liberty
• Education Reform: Standardized Testing and Funding Disparities
• Capital Punishment: Costs, Racial Bias, and Rehabilitation
• Social Media Regulation: Free Speech and Online Safety
• Affordability of Higher Education: Student Debt and College Access
• Religious Freedom: Accommodation vs. Separation of Church and State
• Racial Profiling: Security Measures and Civil Liberties
• Legalization of Prostitution: Public Health and Morality
• Immigration Enforcement: Border Security and Humanitarian Crisis
• National Security Agency (NSA): Surveillance and Privacy Rights

Current Controversial Debate Topics in the News

• Mass Surveillance: Balancing Security and Civil Liberties
• Free Speech: Limits and Consequences in the Digital Age
• Gender Pay Gap: Equal Pay and Workplace Equality
• Animal Rights: Ethical Treatment and Animal Welfare Laws
• Euthanasia: Right to Die and End-of-Life Care
• Space Exploration: Scientific Advancement and Resource Allocation
• Youth Activism: Climate Change and Political Engagement
• Gun Control: Second Amendment Rights and Public Safety
• Aging Population: Healthcare Challenges and Social Support Systems
• Cryptocurrency Regulation: Balancing Innovation and Investor Protection
• Immigration Policy: Border Control and Pathways to Citizenship
• Renewable Energy: Promoting Sustainability and Reducing Dependence on Fossil Fuels
• Genetic Engineering: Ethical Considerations and Potential Benefits
• Online Privacy: Data Collection and Surveillance Issues
• Mental Health Care: Access and Stigma
• Gun Control: Stricter Laws and Second Amendment Rights
• Online Disinformation: Combating Fake News and Misinformation
• Nuclear Power: Safety Concerns and Sustainable Energy Solutions
• Free Speech: Limits and Consequences in the Digital Era
• Election Reform: Ensuring Fair and Transparent Voting Processes

Heated Debate Topics

• Government Intervention in Healthcare: Pros and Cons
• Climate Change: Urgency for Immediate Action
• Artificial Intelligence: Enhancing or Threatening Humanity?
• Animal Testing: Ethical Implications and Alternatives
• Nuclear Energy: Clean Solution or Risky Gamble?
• Education Reform: Rethinking Traditional Methods
• Genetic Engineering: Advancements or Playing God?
• Immigration Policies: Striking the Right Balance
• Gun Control: Protecting Citizens or Infringing Rights?
• Universal Basic Income: A Solution to Poverty or Incentive for Laziness?
• Social Media: Empowering or Destructive Influence?
• Minimum Wage: Promoting Equality or Hindering Economic Growth?
• Censorship in Media: Protecting Society or Limiting Freedom?
• Drug Legalization: Treating Addiction as a Health Issue
• Euthanasia: The Right to Die with Dignity
• Surveillance State: Safeguarding Security or Infringing on Privacy?
• Abortion: Women’s Right to Choose or Unethical Killing?

Life and Ethics Debate Topics

• The Role of Technology in Enhancing Human Life
• Ethical Considerations in Genetic Engineering
• Capital Punishment: Just or Inhumane?
• Ethics of Animal Testing in Medical Research
• Life Extension: A Moral Obligation or Playing God?
• Environmental Conservation: Individual Responsibility or Government Regulation?
• Ethics of Cloning and Reproductive Technologies
• Euthanasia: A Compassionate Choice or Slippery Slope?
• Moral Implications of Artificial Intelligence
• Bioethics: Balancing Scientific Progress and Human Values
• Ethics of Human Enhancement through Technology
• Ethical Dilemmas in Medical Decision-Making
• Animal Rights: Extending Legal Protections to Non-Human Beings
• Privacy in the Digital Age: Ethical Boundaries and Personal Freedom
• Ethical Considerations of Human Trafficking
• Endangered Species Conservation: Preservation or Interference?
• Ethics of Surrogacy and Assisted Reproductive Technologies
• The Morality of War: Justifiable Defense or Unjust Aggression?
• Ethical Issues in Organ Transplantation and Allocation
• Ethical Implications of Emerging Technologies Like Virtual Reality
• Cultural Relativism vs. Universal Moral Values
• Ethical Implications of Gene Editing and Designer Babies

Moral Controversial Debate Topics

• Genetic Modification: Enhancing Human Abilities or Playing God?
• Capital Punishment: Justified Deterrence or Inhumane Punishment?
• Euthanasia: Mercy Killing or Violation of the Sanctity of Life?
• Climate Change: Individual Responsibility or Collective Action?
• Abortion: Women’s Right to Choose or Unethical Termination of Life?
• Assisted Suicide: Compassionate Aid or Violation of Medical Ethics?
• Stem Cell Research: Medical Breakthrough or Moral Compromise?
• Same-Sex Marriage: Equal Rights or Religious Sacrament?
• Pornography: Freedom of Expression or Exploitation of Women?
• Censorship: Protecting Society or Infringement on Freedom of Speech?
• Gun Control: Public Safety or Individual Right to Bear Arms?
• Gender Identity: Self-Identification or Biological Determination?
• Immigration: Humanitarian Duty or National Security Concerns?
• Animal Rights: Protecting Animal Welfare or Valuing Human Needs?
• Death Penalty: Justice or Flawed Legal System?
• Environmental Conservation: Preservation or Economic Development?
• Cloning: Scientific Advancement or Moral Transgression?
• Income Inequality: Social Justice or Incentive for Hard Work?
• Genetic Privacy: Personal Autonomy or Societal Safety?
• Cybersecurity: Protecting Privacy or Ensuring National Security?
• Designer Babies: Improving Genetics or Creating an Unfair Advantage?

Controversial Law Topics

• The Death Penalty: Controversies Surrounding Capital Punishment
• Gun Control: Evaluating Firearm Regulations and Second Amendment Rights
• Abortion Rights: Examining the Legal and Ethical Implications
• Same-Sex Marriage: Perspectives on Marriage Equality
• Assisted Suicide: Debating End-of-Life Choices and Euthanasia
• Affirmative Action: Balancing Equality and Meritocracy
• Marijuana Legalization: Weighing the Benefits and Risks of Decriminalization
• Immigration Reform: Addressing Border Security and Pathways to Citizenship
• Privacy Rights: The Tension Between National Security and Individual Liberty
• Hate Speech Laws: Navigating Free Speech and Protection From Harm
• Animal Rights: Exploring Legal Protections and Ethical Considerations
• Surveillance State: Government Surveillance and Civil Liberties
• Religious Freedom: The Intersection of Belief and Discrimination
• Cybersecurity: Balancing Privacy and Online Security Measures
• Legalizing Prostitution: Examining the Regulation and Moral Dimensions
• Drug Decriminalization: Alternatives to the War on Drugs
• School Vouchers: Varying Perspectives on Education Funding and Choice
• Internet Censorship: Defending Free Expression and Combating Online Harm
• Police Reform: Addressing Accountability and Use of Force
• Euthanasia for Minors: Ethical and Legal Challenges in Pediatric End-of-Life Care

Conflicting Topics

• Privacy vs. National Security
• Renewable Energy vs. Fossil Fuels
• Online Education vs. Traditional Classroom Learning
• Nuclear Power: Safety vs. Energy Needs
• Capital Punishment: Deterrence vs. Human Rights
• Climate Change: Natural Cycle or Human Responsibility?
• Internet Freedom vs. Cybersecurity
• Vaccinations: Public Health vs. Individual Choice
• Free Speech: Limits and Responsibilities
• Drug Legalization: Public Health vs. Criminal Justice
• Sustainable Development: Environmental Conservation vs. Economic Growth
• Artificial Intelligence: Job Automation vs. Human Employment
• Animal Rights: Animal Welfare vs. Human Interests
• Social Media: Connection or Isolation?
• GMO Labeling: Transparency vs. Consumer Choice
• Capitalism vs. Socialism: Economic Systems in Conflict
• Gun Control: Individual Rights vs. Public Safety
• Euthanasia: Personal Autonomy vs. Sanctity of Life

Contradicting Controversial Debate Topics

• Renewable Energy: Solution or Illusion?
• Climate Change: Urgency or Exaggeration?
• Nuclear Power: Clean Energy or Environmental Risk?
• Vaccines: Lifesaver or Health Hazard?
• Space Exploration: Scientific Progress or Waste of Resources?
• Capital Punishment: Justice or Inhumane?
• Privacy: Fundamental Right or Sacrifice for Security?
• Internet Censorship: Protection or Suppression of Freedom?
• Virtual Reality: Enhancing Experiences or Detachment from Reality?
• Organic Food: Healthier Option or Marketing Gimmick?
• Education: Traditional Methods or Innovative Approaches?
• Automation: Efficiency or Job Displacement?
• Gun Control: Safety or Infringement on Rights?
• Immigration: Cultural Enrichment or Economic Burden?
• Online Learning: Accessible Education or Limited Interaction?
• Capitalism: Economic Growth or Social Inequality?
• Marijuana Legalization: Medicinal Benefits or Gateway Drug?
• Autonomous Vehicles: Safer Roads or Ethical Dilemma?
• Cybersecurity: Protection or Threat to Privacy?
• Globalization: Cultural Diversity or Homogenization?

To Learn More, Read Relevant Articles

630 informative speech topics & unique ideas, 196 psychology argumentative essay topics & ideas.

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60 Debate Topics for High Schoolers

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What’s Covered:

What makes a good debate topic, good debate topics for teens.

• Where to Get Feedback on Your Debate Topics

Learning to view, think, and discuss ideas from contrasting viewpoints builds a host of skills that will benefit high schoolers both in and out of the classroom—including improving public speaking, reinforcing listening, and sharpening research. Good debate topics for high school students are key to lively discussion and an engaged classroom; they’re issues that students care about. 

A good debate topic for high school is one that inspires students to think and learn about both sides of the issue. There are a few factors to consider when searching for good debate topics for high school students.

• Clear Idea: A good debate topic clearly, simply, and specifically states an often complex idea that students can argue the affirmative (pro) side of and the negative (con) side of.
• Interest: The more interesting the topic is, the more engaged and excited students are to take positions and defend them. 
• Passion: Topics that students feel strongly about work well. If students are super-passionate about a particular issue, it can challenge them to see both sides of the argument. 
• Argument: Good debate topics do not have a clear “right” answer—rather, they have opposing views that participants can make persuasive arguments in favor of or against. 
• Evidence: The availability of evidence and data is key to a good debate topic; without them, participants are merely stating a personal position on a topic. 
• Avoid Cliches: There are a handful of topics that seem to always materialize for debates and can cause students to lose interest. 

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• Are the arts an important aspect of education? 
• Should we make financial education mandatory? 
• Should students attend school year-round? 
• Should schools punish students for bullying that occurs outside of school?
• Will computers replace teachers in the future?
• Should students grade their teachers?
• Should all high school sports become gender-neutral?
• Is a college education as valuable as it once was? 
• Are student loans exploitative? 
• Is it time to eliminate standardized tests? 

Science and Technology

• Is social media making us less social?
• Is Google the best search engine or just the one we’re accustomed to using? 
• Is Android better than iOS? 
• Will technology save the world or destroy it? 
• Can the law keep pace with technology?
• Is the future of school online?
• Will cryptocurrencies replace cash?   
• Is technology taking jobs or creating them? 
• Should every American have the right to access the internet? 
• Are electronic libraries more equitable than traditional ones? 

Government and Politics

• Should the government make vaccinations mandatory?
• Is it time for Supreme Court justices to have term limits? 
• Should we make voting mandatory?
• Should we make all drugs legal?
• Is it time to decriminalize sex work? 
• Is our privacy more important than national security?
• Is it fair to take the right to vote away from felons? 
• Should we raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour?
• Should the government provide universal basic income? 
• Is providing healthcare the job of the government?
• Can governments implement policies that will actually combat climate change?   
• Should we allow the use of performance-enhancing drugs in sports?
• Should we remove racial epithets from books like The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn ?
• Can the U.S. achieve gender equality?
• Is nationalism beneficial or dangerous? 
• Does religion do more harm than good?
• Should we bar police from using lethal force?
• Do we still need the institution of marriage? 
• Can the U.S. ever achieve racial equality?
• Are we living in a dystopian society?
• Should we punish or help drug addicts? 
• Is bad parenting responsible for the rise in childhood obesity?
• Should we sell birth control over the counter? 
• Is it time to ban cigarettes and vaping? 
• Are alternative medicines helpful or harmful?
• Should we ban businesses from advertising to children?
• Is the eight-hour workday outdated? 
• Should we treat corporations like people?
• Should corporations be involved in politics? 
• Is remote work the future of employment? 
• Is gaming a sport? 
• Are books a better entertainment option than television?
• Should social media companies censor content? 
• Is civil disobedience the most effective form of protest? 
• Should we ban football? 
• Should Black Friday sales start on Thanksgiving Day?
• What better determines success: skill or will?
• Should you feel guilty for killing zombies during the zombie apocalypse? 
• Should you choose pizza toppings based on taste or nutrition? 
• Are hot dogs sandwiches?

Where to Get Feedback on Your Debate Arguments 

A vital part of debate preparation is to test your arguments to ensure they specifically address the topic and collectively form a cohesive point. Make sure you consider both sides of the argument to better be prepared for a rebuttal.

Before stepping up to argue your side of the issue, test your argument on CollegeVine’s free peer review essay tool to get feedback for free from a peer!

As you get ready for college, it is important to understand how your extracurriculars, like debate, factor into your chances of acceptance. Check out our free chancing calculator to find the best-fit school for you.

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Top 70 Controversial Debate Topics For Critical Thinkers in 2024

Jane Ng • 22 Apr 2024 • 6 min read

Whether you love or hate them, controversial debate topics are an inescapable part of our lives. They challenge our beliefs and push us out of our comfort zones, forcing us to examine our assumptions and biases. With so many controversial issues, you needn’t go far if you’re looking for a compelling debate. This blog post will provide you with a list of controversial debate topics to inspire your next discussion.

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Table of Contents

What are controversial debate topics, good controversial debate topics, fun controversial debate topics.

• Controversial Debate Topics For Teens 

Social Controversial Debate Topics

• Controversial Debate Topics On Current Events 
• Key Takeaways 

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

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

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

• Is it better to have a small group of close friends or a large group of acquaintances?
• Should you brush your teeth before or after breakfast?
• Should you put mayo or ketchup on the fries?
• Is it acceptable to dip fries in a milkshake?
• Should you brush your teeth before or after breakfast? 
• Is it better to use a bar of soap or liquid soap? 
• Is waking early or staying up late better?
• Should you make your bed every day?
• Should you wear a mask in public places?

Controversial Debate Topics For Teens 

• Should teenagers access birth control without parental consent?
• Should the voting age be lowered to 16?
• Should parents have access to their children’s social media accounts?
• Should cell phone use be allowed during school hours?
• Is homeschooling a better option than traditional schooling?
• Should the school day start later to allow for more sleep for students?
• Is studying should be voluntary?
• Should schools be allowed to discipline students for social media use outside of school?
• Should school hours be reduced?
• Should drivers be banned from using mobile phones while driving?
• Should the legal driving age be raised to 19 in some countries?
• Should students take classes on parenting?
• Should teenagers be allowed to work part-time jobs during the school year?
• Should social media platforms be held responsible for the spread of misinformation?
• Should schools make drug testing mandatory for students?
• Should cyberbullying be considered to be an offense?
• Should teens be allowed to have relationships with significant age differences?
• Should schools allow students to carry concealed weapons for self-defense?
• Should teens be allowed to get tattoos and piercings without parental consent?
• Is online learning as effective as in-person learning?

• Should hate speech be protected under freedom of speech laws?
• Should the government provide a guaranteed basic income for all citizens?
• Is affirmative action necessary to address systemic inequalities in society?
• Should Violence/Sex on TV be abolished?
• Should illegal immigrants be allowed to receive social welfare benefits?
• Is the pay discrepancy between men and women the result of discrimination?
• Should the government regulate the use of artificial intelligence?
• Should healthcare be a universal human right?
• Should the assault weapons ban be extended?
• Should billionaires be taxed at a higher rate than the average citizen?
• Is it necessary to legalize and regulate prostitution?
• Who is more important in the family, father or mother?
• Is GPA an outdated way of assessing a student’s knowledge?
• Is the war on drugs a failure?
• Should vaccinations be mandatory for all children?

Controversial Debate Topics On Current Events 

• Is the use of social media algorithms to spread misinformation a threat to democracy?
• Should COVID-19 vaccine mandates be implemented?
• Is the use of artificial intelligence ethical in the workplace?
• Should AI be used instead of humans?
• Should companies be required to provide advance notice of lay-offs to employees?
• Is it ethical for companies to lay off employees while CEOs and other executives receive large bonuses?

Key Takeaways

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

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

1/ What are good topics to debate about? 

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

2/ What are some controversial debates? 

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

Here are some examples:

3/ What is an emotional and controversial topic? 

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

For example:

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

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Published on: Jan 13, 2022

Last updated on: Jan 31, 2024

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Choosing the best topic for your debate can be daunting. A person, even a professional essay writer, can never come up with a perfect topic instantly that is arguable and defendable. 

If you have relatable content but do not have an engaging topic, you will lose your audience’s interest. So, choose a topic that is right and appropriate. 

Are you looking for expert help to assist you in choosing the debate topic? Are you finding it difficult to create debate topics or find stuff to debate about? 

Then read this blog to get some interesting debate topics and choose the best topic according to your requirements. 

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Debate Topics for Kids

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

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

Debate Topics for Middle School Students

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

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

Debate Topics for Grade 6 

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

High School Debate Topics

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

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

Debate Topics for College Students

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

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

Debate Topics For Teens

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

Debate Topics For Adults

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

Controversial Debate Topics

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

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

Good Debate Topics About Education

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

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

Political Debate Topics

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

Social Debate Topics 

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

Funny Debate Topics

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

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

Interesting Debate Topics

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

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

Sport Debate Topics

• Is paintball a real sport?
• Should advertising be allowed in sports?
• Should steroids be legalized and monetized?
• Who's the best team ever?
• The Olympics are a waste of money.
• Should women be allowed to compete against men?
• Is there growth in boxing?
• The history of using math in baseball
• Men coaches shouldn’t work with women athletes.
• Is winning everything?

Social Media Debate Topics

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

Technology Debate Topics

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

Creative Debate Topics

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

Science Debate Topics

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

English Debate Topics

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

Environmental Debate Topics

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

Silly Debate Topics For Friends

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

General Debate Topics

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

Unique Debate Topics 

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

Relationship Debate Topics

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

Tips for Choosing a Good Debate Topic 

Here are some tips for choosing a good debate topic:

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

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

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Choose Your Test

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

General Education

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

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

What Is a Persuasive Essay?

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

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

All persuasive essays have the following:

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

What Makes a Good Persuasive Essay Topic?

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

It’s a Topic You Care About

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

You Have Enough Evidence to Support Your Argument

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

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

It’s a Manageable Topic

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

List of 113 Good Persuasive Essay Topics

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

Arts/Culture

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

Government/Politics

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

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

Tips for Writing a Strong Persuasive Essay

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

Do Your Research

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

Make Your Thesis Perfect

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

Consider the Other Side

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

Summary: Persuasive Essay Ideas

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

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

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

What's Next?

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

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

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

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

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High School Debate Topics

Illustration: Hugo Lin. ThoughtCo. 

• Teaching Resources
• An Introduction to Teaching
• Tips & Strategies
• Policies & Discipline
• Community Involvement
• School Administration
• Technology in the Classroom
• Teaching Adult Learners
• Issues In Education
• Becoming A Teacher
• Assessments & Tests
• Elementary Education
• Secondary Education
• Special Education
• Homeschooling
• M.Ed., Curriculum and Instruction, University of Florida
• B.A., History, University of Florida

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

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

Debate Topics

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

Watch Now: Ideas for Great Classroom Debate Topics

Science and technology.

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

Laws and Politics

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

Social Justice

• Should partial-birth abortion be illegal?
• Should all parents be required to attend parenting classes before having a child?
• Should parents be required to vaccinate their children?
• Should mixed martial arts be banned?
• Should celebrities be required to be positive role models?
• Should people be fined for not recycling?
• Are progressive tax rates just?
• Should performance-enhancing drugs be allowed in sports?
• Should marijuana use be considered a crime?
• Should every student be required to take a performing arts course?
• Should homework be banned?
• Should school uniforms be required?
• Is year-round education is a good idea?
• Should physical education be required of all high school students?
• Should all students be required to perform community service?
• Should schools block YouTube?
• Should students be able to leave school grounds for lunch?
• Are single-sex schools better for student learning and mental health?
• Should schools punish cyberbullying that occurs outside of school?
• Should teachers not be allowed to contact students through social media?
• Should public prayer be allowed in schools?
• Should high-stakes state testing be abolished?
• Should poetry units be removed from the curriculum?
• Is History (or another subject) actually an important subject in school?
• Should schools be allowed to track students by academic level?
• Should students be required to pass algebra to graduate?
• Should students be graded on their handwriting?
• Should all students be required to co-op?
• Should the theory of creation be taught in schools?
• Middle School Debate Topics
• 100 Persuasive Essay Topics
• 50 Argumentative Essay Topics
• 100 Persuasive Speech Topics for Students
• Classroom Rules for High School Students
• Why US Public Schools Don't Have a Prayer
• 4 Fast Debate Formats for the Secondary Classroom
• 40 Writing Topics for Argumentative and Persuasive Essays
• 25 Essay Topics for American Government Classes
• 5 Ways to Prepare Your Middle Schooler for High School
• Course Requirements for Homeschooling High School
• Are Cell Phones Allowed in Schools?
• 30 Writing Topics: Persuasion
• The Laws Governing Homeschooling
• The Best Interactive Debate Websites for Students and Teachers
• Violence in the Media Needs To Be Regulated