common argumentative essay topics

Are you seeking one-on-one college counseling and/or essay support? Limited spots are now available. Click here to learn more.

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).

• 2-Year Colleges
• ADHD/LD/Autism/Executive Functioning
• Application Strategies
• Best Colleges by Major
• Best Colleges by State
• Big Picture
• Career & Personality Assessment
• College Essay
• College Search/Knowledge
• College Success
• Costs & Financial Aid
• Data Visualizations
• Dental School Admissions
• Extracurricular Activities
• General Knowledge
• Graduate School Admissions
• High Schools
• Homeschool Resources
• Law School Admissions
• Medical School Admissions
• Navigating the Admissions Process
• Online Learning
• Outdoor Adventure
• Private High School Spotlight
• Research Programs
• Summer Program Spotlight
• Summer Programs
• Teacher Tools
• Test Prep Provider Spotlight

“Innovative and invaluable…use this book as your college lifeline.”

— Lynn O'Shaughnessy

Nationally Recognized College Expert

College Planning in Your Inbox

Join our information-packed monthly newsletter.

50 Argumentative Essay Topics

Illustration by Catherine Song. ThoughtCo. 

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

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

Choosing a Great Argumentative Essay Topic

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

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

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

Ideas for Argument Essays

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

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

List of 50 Possible Argumentative Essay Topics

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

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

How to Craft a Persuasive Argument

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

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

Debate Topics

Need to write an argumentative essay? Preparing for an upcoming debate? ProCon.org has over 100 topics complete with pro and con arguments, quotes and statistics from experts, historical information, and other pertinent research.

Abortion – Should abortion be legal?

Alternative Energy – Can alternative energy effectively replace fossil fuels?

American Socialism – Should the U.S. become socialist?

Animal Dissection – Should K-12 students dissect animals in science classrooms?

Animal Testing – Should animals be used for scientific or commercial testing?

Artificial Intelligence – Is artificial intelligence good for society?

Banned Books – Should parents or other adults be able to ban books from schools and libraries?

Binge-Watching – Is binge-watching good for you?

Cancel Culture – Is cancel culture (or callout culture) good for society?

CBD for Pets – Is CBD good for pets?

Cell Phone Radiation – Is cell phone radiation safe?

Cheerleading – Is cheerleading a sport?

Churches & Taxes – Should churches (including mosques, synagogues, etc.) remain tax-exempt?

College Education – Is a college education worth it?

Congressional Term Limits  – Should term limits be imposed on U.S. Senators and Representatives?

Constitutional Carry of Handguns – Should permitless, “constitutional carry” of guns be legal?

Corporal Punishment – Should corporal punishment be used in K-12 schools?

Corporate Tax Rate – Should the federal corporate income tax rate be raised?

Cuba Embargo – Should the United States maintain its embargo against Cuba?

DACA & Dreamers – Are DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) and the DREAM Act good for America?

Daylight Saving Time – Should the United States keep daylight saving time?

DC AND Puerto Rico Statehood – Should Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico be granted U.S. statehood?

Death Penalty – Should the death penalty be legal?

Defund the Police – Should police departments be defunded, if not abolished?

Dress Codes – Should dress codes be implemented and enforced?

Drinking Age – Should the drinking age be lowered from 21 to a younger age?

Drone Strikes – Should the United States continue its use of drone strikes abroad?

Drug Use in Sports – Should performance-enhancing drugs be accepted in sports?

Election Day National Holiday – Should the election day be made a national holiday?

Electoral College – Should the United States use the electoral college in presidential elections?

Employer Vaccine Mandates – Should employers be able to mandate vaccinations?

Felon Voting – Should people who have completed felony sentences be allowed to vote?

Fighting in Hockey – Should fighting be allowed in hockey?

Filibuster – Should the U.S. Senate keep the filibuster?

Fracking – Should the United States continue fracking

Free College – Should public college be tuition-free?

Fur Clothing Bans – Should fur clothing be banned?

GMOS – Should genetically modified organisms (GMOs) be grown?

Gold Standard – Should the United States return to a gold standard?

Golf – Is golf a sport and are golfers athletes?

Gun Control – Should more gun control laws be enacted?

Historic Statue Removal – Should historic statues be taken down?

Homework – Is homework beneficial?

Illegal Immigration – Should the U.S. government provide a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants?

Internet – Is the internet “making us stupid?”

Kneeling during the National Anthem – Is kneeling during the national anthem an appropriate form of protest?

Mandatory National Service – Should the United States have mandatory national service?

Medical Aid in Dying (MAID) – Should medical aid in dying be legal?

Medical Marijuana – Should medical marijuana be legal?

Milk – Should humans consume dairy milk?

Minimum Wage – Should the federal minimum wage be increased?

Net Neutrality – Should the U.S. have net neutrality laws?

Obesity – Is obesity a disease?

Olympics – Are the Olympic games an overall benefit for their host countries and cities?

OTC Birth Control Pills – Should birth control pills be available over-the-counter (OTC)?

Penny – Should the penny stay in circulation?

Pit Bull Bans – Should breed-specific legislation (“pit bull bans”) be enacted?

Pokémon – Is Pokémon Go good for our society?

Police Body Cameras – Should police officers wear body cameras?

Prescription Drug Costs – Should the U.S. federal government regulate prescription drug prices?

Presidential Election, 2024 – 2024 Presidential Election Site

Private Prisons – Should prisons be privatized?

Recreational Marijuana – Should recreational marijuana be legal?

Reparations for Slavery – Should the federal government pay reparations to the descendants of slaves?

Right to Healthcare – Should all Americans have the right (be entitled) to health care?

Sanctuary Cities – Should sanctuary cities receive federal funding?

Santa Claus – Is there really a Santa Claus?

Saturday Halloween – Should Halloween be moved permanently to Saturday?

School Uniforms – Should students have to wear school uniforms?

Single-use Plastics Ban – Should single-use plastics be banned?

Social Media & Digital Addiction – Does social media spur digital addiction and other social ills?

Social Security Privatization – Should social security be privatized?

Space Colonization – Should humans colonize space?

Standardized Tests – Do standardized tests improve education in America?

Student Loan Debt – Should student loan debt be eliminated via forgiveness or bankruptcy?

TikTok Bans – Should TikTok be banned?

Uber & Lyft – Are ride-sharing companies a benefit to society?

Universal Basic Income (UBI) – Should the United States implement a universal basic income?

U.S. Supreme Court Packing – Should packing the U.S. Supreme Court ever be considered?

Vaccines for Kids – Should states be allowed to mandate vaccines for school attendance??

Vaping E-Cigarettes – Is vaping e-cigarettes safe?

Vegetarianism – Should people become vegetarian?

Video Games & Violence – Do violent video games contribute to youth violence?

Voting Age – Should the voting age be lowered to 16?

Voting Machines – Are electronic voting machines the best method for voting?

Zoos – Should zoos exist?

Archived Topics

Please note that ProCon no longer updates these debates.

ACLU – Is the ACLU good for America?

Big Three Bailout – Should the big three car manufacturers be bailed out by the U.S. government?

Born Gay – Is sexual orientation determined at birth?

Climate Change – Is human activity primarily responsible for global climate change?

College Football Playoffs – Should college football replace the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) with a playoff system?

Dakota Access Pipeline – Should the Dakota Access Pipeline be completed?

D.A.R.E. – Is the D.A.R.E. program good for America’s kids (K-12)?

Gay Marriage – Should gay marriage be legal?

Congressional Insider Trading – Should insider trading by Congress be allowed?

Israeli-Palestinian Conflict – What are the solutions to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?

Obamacare – Is the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) good for America?

Paying College Athletes – Should colleges and universities pay college athletes?

President Bill Clinton – Was Bill Clinton a good president?

President Ronald Reagan – Was Ronald Reagan a good president?

Presidential Election, 2008 – Which candidate would make the best U.S. president?

Presidential Election, 2012 – Which candidate should be U.S. president in 2012?

Presidential Election, 2016 – The candidates and where they stand on the issues

Presidential Election, 2020 – 2020 Presidential Election Site

Prostitution – Should prostitution be legal?

School Vouchers – Should states have school voucher programs?

Tablets v. Textbooks -Should tablets replace textbooks in K-12 schools?

Teacher Tenure – Should teachers get tenure?

Under God in the Pledge – Should the words “under god” be in the U.S. Pledge of Allegiance?

U.S. Drone Shot down by Iran – Was the U.S. drone shot down by Iran over international waters?

U.S.-Iraq War – Should the U.S. have attacked Iraq?

WTC Muslim Center – Is it appropriate to build a muslim community center (aka the ”ground zero mosque”) near the World Trade Center site?

ProCon/Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc. 325 N. LaSalle Street, Suite 200 Chicago, Illinois 60654 USA

Natalie Leppard Managing Editor [email protected]

© 2023 Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc. All rights reserved

• Social Media
• Death Penalty
• School Uniforms
• Video Games
• Animal Testing
• Gun Control
• Banned Books
• Teachers’ Corner

Cite This Page

ProCon.org is the institutional or organization author for all ProCon.org pages. Proper citation depends on your preferred or required style manual. Below are the proper citations for this page according to four style manuals (in alphabetical order): the Modern Language Association Style Manual (MLA), the Chicago Manual of Style (Chicago), the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (APA), and Kate Turabian's A Manual for Writers of Term Papers, Theses, and Dissertations (Turabian). Here are the proper bibliographic citations for this page according to four style manuals (in alphabetical order):

[Editor's Note: The APA citation style requires double spacing within entries.]

[Editor’s Note: The MLA citation style requires double spacing within entries.]

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

student opinion

130 New Prompts for Argumentative Writing

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

By The Learning Network

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We are having trouble retrieving the article content.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser settings.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access. If you are in Reader mode please exit and  log into  your Times account, or  subscribe  for all of The Times.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access.

Already a subscriber?  Log in .

Want all of The Times?  Subscribe .

• Link to facebook
• Link to linkedin
• Link to twitter
• Link to youtube
• 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.

Find this useful?

Subscribe to our newsletter and get writing tips from our editors straight to your inbox.

●  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!

Share this article:

Post A New Comment

Got content that needs a quick turnaround? Let us polish your work. Explore our editorial business services.

5-minute read

Free Email Newsletter Template

Promoting a brand means sharing valuable insights to connect more deeply with your audience, and...

6-minute read

How to Write a Nonprofit Grant Proposal

If you’re seeking funding to support your charitable endeavors as a nonprofit organization, you’ll need...

9-minute read

How to Use Infographics to Boost Your Presentation

Is your content getting noticed? Capturing and maintaining an audience’s attention is a challenge when...

8-minute read

Why Interactive PDFs Are Better for Engagement

Are you looking to enhance engagement and captivate your audience through your professional documents? Interactive...

7-minute read

Seven Key Strategies for Voice Search Optimization

Voice search optimization is rapidly shaping the digital landscape, requiring content professionals to adapt their...

Five Creative Ways to Showcase Your Digital Portfolio

Are you a creative freelancer looking to make a lasting impression on potential clients or...

Make sure your writing is the best it can be with our expert English proofreading and editing.

• Words with Friends Cheat
• Wordle Solver
• Word Unscrambler
• Scrabble Dictionary
• Anagram Solver
• Wordscapes Answers

Make Our Dictionary Yours

Sign up for our weekly newsletters and get:

• Grammar and writing tips
• Fun language articles
• #WordOfTheDay and quizzes

By signing in, you agree to our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy .

We'll see you in your inbox soon.

120+ Strong Argumentative Essay Topics

• DESCRIPTION Strong Argumentative Essay Topic Examples
• SOURCE Background: Tolchik / iStock / Getty Images Plus
• PERMISSION Used under Getty Images license

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

Argumentative Essay Hot Topics

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

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

Argumentative Essay Topics About Politics

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

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

Argumentative Essay Topics About Society & Culture

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

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

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

Argumentative Essay Topics About History

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

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

More Argumentative Essay Topics for Every Age

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

Argumentative Essay Topics for Kids in Elementary School

The following topics are perfect for elementary school students.

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

Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle School

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

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

Argumentative Essay Topics for High School

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

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

Argumentative Essay Topics for College

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

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

Artful Argumentation

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

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

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

52 Argumentative Essay Ideas that are Actually Interesting

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

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

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

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

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

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

Convincing Thesis Statement

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

Ample Research

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

Clear Structure

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

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

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

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

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

Art / Culture

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

Where to Get More Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

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

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

Choose Your Test

• Search Blogs By Category
• College Admissions
• AP and IB Exams
• GPA and Coursework

50 Great Argumentative Essay Topics for Any Assignment

General Education

At some point, you’re going to be asked to write an argumentative essay. An argumentative essay is exactly what it sounds like—an essay in which you’ll be making an argument, using examples and research to back up your point.

But not all argumentative essay topics are created equal. Not only do you have to structure your essay right to have a good impact on the reader, but even your choice of subject can impact how readers feel about your work.

In this article, we’ll cover the basics of writing argumentative essays, including what argumentative essays are, how to write a good one, and how to pick a topic that works for you. Then check out a list of argumentative essay ideas to help you get started.

What Is an Argumentative Essay?

An argumentative essay is one that makes an argument through research. These essays take a position and support it through evidence, but, unlike many other kinds of essays, they are interested in expressing a specific argument supported by research and evidence.

A good argumentative essay will be based on established or new research rather than only on your thoughts and feelings. Imagine that you’re trying to get your parents to raise your allowance, and you can offer one of two arguments in your favor:

You should raise my allowance because I want you to.

You should raise my allowance because I’ve been taking on more chores without complaining.

The first argument is based entirely in feelings without any factual backup, whereas the second is based on evidence that can be proven. Your parents are more likely to respond positively to the second argument because it demonstrates that you have done something to earn the increased allowance. Similarly, a well-researched and reasoned argument will show readers that your point has a basis in fact, not just feelings.

The standard five-paragraph essay is common in writing argumentative essays, but it’s not the only way to write one. An argumentative essay is typically written in one of two formats, the Toulmin model or the Rogerian model.

The Toulmin model is the most common, comprised of an introduction with a claim (otherwise known as a thesis), with data to support it. This style of essay will also include rebuttals, helping to strengthen your argument by anticipating counterarguments.

The Rogerian model analyzes two sides of an argument and reaches a conclusion after weighing the strengths and weaknesses of each.

Both essay styles rely on well-reasoned logic and supporting evidence to prove a point, just in two different ways.

The important thing to note about argumentative essays as opposed to other kinds of essays is that they aim to argue a specific point rather than to explain something or to tell a story. While they may have some things in common with analytical essays, the primary difference is in their objective—an argumentative essay aims to convince someone of something, whereas an analytical essay contextualizes a topic with research.

What Makes a Good Argumentative Essay?

To write an effective argumentative essay, you need to know what a good one looks like. In addition to a solid structure, you’ll need an argument, a strong thesis, and solid research.

An Argument

Unlike other forms of essays, you are trying to convince your reader of something. You’re not just teaching them a concept or demonstrating an idea—you’re constructing an argument to change the readers’ thinking.

You’ll need to develop a good argument, which encompasses not just your main point, but also all the pieces that make it up.

Think beyond what you are saying and include how you’re saying it. How will you take an idea and turn it into a complex and well thought out argument that is capable of changing somebody’s mind?

A Strong Thesis

The thesis is the core of your argument. What specific message are you trying to get across? State that message in one sentence, and that will be your thesis.

This is the foundation on which your essay is built, so it needs to be strong and well-reasoned. You need to be able to expand on it with facts and sources, not just feelings.

A good argumentative essay isn’t just based on your individual thoughts, but research. That can be citing sources and other arguments or it can mean direct research in the field, depending on what your argument is and the context in which you are arguing it.

Be prepared to back your thesis up with reporting from scientific journals, newspapers, or other forms of research. Having well-researched sources will help support your argument better than hearsay or assumptions. If you can’t find enough research to back up your point, it’s worth reconsidering your thesis or conducting original research, if possible.

How to Come Up With an Argumentative Essay Topic

Sometimes you may find yourself arguing things you don’t necessarily believe. That’s totally fine—you don’t actually have to wholeheartedly believe in what you’re arguing in order to construct a compelling argument.

However, if you have free choice of topic, it’s a good idea to pick something you feel strongly about. There are two key components to a good argumentative essay: a strong stance, and an assortment of evidence. If you’re interested and feel passionate about the topic you choose, you'll have an easier time finding evidence to support it, but it's the evidence that's most important. 

So, to choose a topic, think about things you feel strongly about, whether positively or negatively. You can make a list of ideas and narrow those down to a handful of things, then expand on those ideas with a few potential points you want to hit on.

For example, say you’re trying to decide whether you should write about how your neighborhood should ban weed killer, that your school’s lunch should be free for all students, or that the school day should be cut by one hour. To decide between these ideas, you can make a list of three to five points for each that cover the different evidence you could use to support each point.

For the weed killer ban, you could say that weed killer has been proven to have adverse impacts on bees, that there are simple, natural alternatives, and that weeds aren’t actually bad to have around. For the free lunch idea, you could suggest that some students have to go hungry because they can’t afford lunch, that funds could be diverted from other places to support free lunch, and that other items, like chips or pizza, could be sold to help make up lost revenue. And for the school day length example, you could argue that teenagers generally don’t get enough sleep, that you have too much homework and not enough time to do it, and that teenagers don’t spend enough time with their families.

You might find as you make these lists that some of them are stronger than others. The more evidence you have and the stronger you feel that that evidence is, the better the topic.  Of course, if you feel that one topic may have more evidence but you’d rather not write about it, it’s okay to pick another topic instead. When you’re making arguments, it can be much easier to find strong points and evidence if you feel passionate about our topic than if you don't.

50 Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

If you’re struggling to come up with topics on your own, read through this list of argumentative essay topics to help get you started!

• Should fracking be legal?
• Should parents be able to modify their unborn children?
• Do GMOs help or harm people?
• Should vaccinations be required for students to attend public school?
• Should world governments get involved in addressing climate change?
• Should Facebook be allowed to collect data from its users?
• Should self-driving cars be legal?
• Is it ethical to replace human workers with automation?
• Should there be laws against using cell phones while driving?
• Has the internet positively or negatively impacted human society?

• Should college athletes be paid for being on sports teams?
• Should coaches and players make the same amount of money?
• Should sports be segregated by gender?
• Should the concept of designated hitters in baseball be abolished?
• Should US sports take soccer more seriously?
• Should religious organizations have to pay taxes?
• Should religious clubs be allowed in schools?
• Should “one nation under God” be in the pledge of allegiance?
• Should religion be taught in schools?
• Should clergy be allowed to marry?
• Should minors be able to purchase birth control without parental consent?
• Should the US switch to single-payer healthcare?
• Should assisted suicide be legal?
• Should dietary supplements and weight loss items like teas be allowed to advertise through influencers?
• Should doctors be allowed to promote medicines?

Government/Politics

• Is the electoral college an effective system for modern America?
• Should Puerto Rico become a state?
• Should voter registration be automatic?
• Should people in prison be allowed to vote?
• Should Supreme Court justices be elected?
• Should sex work be legalized?
• Should Columbus Day be replaced with Indigenous Peoples’ Day?
• Should the death penalty be legal?
• Should animal testing be allowed?
• Should drug possession be decriminalized?

• Should unpaid internships be legal?
• Should minimum wage be increased?
• Should monopolies be allowed?
• Is universal basic income a good idea?
• Should corporations have a higher or lower tax rate?
• Are school uniforms a good idea?
• Should PE affect a student’s grades?
• Should college be free?
• Should Greek life in colleges be abolished?
• Should students be taught comprehensive sex ed?

Arts/Culture

• Should graffiti be considered art or vandalism?
• Should books with objectionable words be banned?
• Should content on YouTube be better regulated?
• Is art education important?
• Should art and music sharing online be allowed?

How to Argue Effectively

A strong argument isn’t just about having a good point. If you can’t support that point well, your argument falls apart.

One of the most important things you can do in writing a strong argumentative essay is organizing well. Your essay should have a distinct beginning, middle, and end, better known as the introduction, body and opposition, and conclusion.

This example follows the Toulmin model—if your essay follows the Rogerian model, the same basic premise is true, but your thesis will instead propose two conflicting viewpoints that will be resolved through evidence in the body, with your conclusion choosing the stronger of the two arguments.

Introduction

Your hook should draw the reader’s interest immediately. Questions are a common way of getting interest, as well as evocative language or a strong statistic

Don’t assume that your audience is already familiar with your topic. Give them some background information, such as a brief history of the issue or some additional context.

Your thesis is the crux of your argument. In an argumentative essay, your thesis should be clearly outlined so that readers know exactly what point you’ll be making. Don’t explain all your evidence in the opening, but do take a strong stance and make it clear what you’ll be discussing.

Your claims are the ideas you’ll use to support your thesis. For example, if you’re writing about how your neighborhood shouldn’t use weed killer, your claim might be that it’s bad for the environment. But you can’t just say that on its own—you need evidence to support it.

Evidence is the backbone of your argument. This can be things you glean from scientific studies, newspaper articles, or your own research. You might cite a study that says that weed killer has an adverse effect on bees, or a newspaper article that discusses how one town eliminated weed killer and saw an increase in water quality. These kinds of hard evidence support your point with demonstrable facts, strengthening your argument.

In your essay, you want to think about how the opposition would respond to your claims and respond to them. Don’t pick the weakest arguments, either— figure out what other people are saying and respond to those arguments with clearly reasoned arguments.

Demonstrating that you not only understand the opposition’s point, but that your argument is strong enough to withstand it, is one of the key pieces to a successful argumentative essay.

Conclusions are a place to clearly restate your original point, because doing so will remind readers exactly what you’re arguing and show them how well you’ve argued that point.

Summarize your main claims by restating them, though you don’t need to bring up the evidence again. This helps remind readers of everything you’ve said throughout the essay.

End by suggesting a picture of a world in which your argument and action are ignored. This increases the impact of your argument and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

A strong argumentative essay is one with good structure and a strong argument , but there are a few other things you can keep in mind to further strengthen your point.

When you’re crafting an argument, it can be easy to get distracted by all the information and complications in your argument. It’s important to stay focused—be clear in your thesis and home in on claims that directly support that thesis.

Be Rational

It’s important that your claims and evidence be based in facts, not just opinion. That’s why it’s important to use reliable sources based in science and reporting—otherwise, it’s easy for people to debunk your arguments.

Don’t rely solely on your feelings about the topic. If you can’t back a claim up with real evidence, it leaves room for counterarguments you may not anticipate. Make sure that you can support everything you say with clear and concrete evidence, and your claims will be a lot stronger!

What’s Next?

No matter what kind of essay you're writing, a strong plan will help you have a bigger impact. This guide to writing a college essay is a great way to get started on your essay organizing journey!

Brushing up on your essay format knowledge to prep for the SAT? Check out this list of SAT essay prompts to help you kickstart your studying!

A bunch of great essay examples can help you aspire to greatness, but bad essays can also be a warning for what not to do. This guide to bad college essays will help you better understand common mistakes to avoid in essay writing!

Trending Now

How to Get Into Harvard and the Ivy League

How to Get a Perfect 4.0 GPA

How to Write an Amazing College Essay

What Exactly Are Colleges Looking For?

ACT vs. SAT: Which Test Should You Take?

When should you take the SAT or ACT?

Get Your Free

Find Your Target SAT Score

Free Complete Official SAT Practice Tests

How to Get a Perfect SAT Score, by an Expert Full Scorer

Score 800 on SAT Math

Score 800 on SAT Reading and Writing

How to Improve Your Low SAT Score

Score 600 on SAT Math

Score 600 on SAT Reading and Writing

Find Your Target ACT Score

Complete Official Free ACT Practice Tests

How to Get a Perfect ACT Score, by a 36 Full Scorer

Get a 36 on ACT English

Get a 36 on ACT Math

Get a 36 on ACT Reading

Get a 36 on ACT Science

How to Improve Your Low ACT Score

Get a 24 on ACT English

Get a 24 on ACT Math

Get a 24 on ACT Reading

Get a 24 on ACT Science

Stay Informed

Get the latest articles and test prep tips!

Melissa Brinks graduated from the University of Washington in 2014 with a Bachelor's in English with a creative writing emphasis. She has spent several years tutoring K-12 students in many subjects, including in SAT prep, to help them prepare for their college education.

Ask a Question Below

Have any questions about this article or other topics? Ask below and we'll reply!

101 Standout Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

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

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

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

How to Choose a Topic for an Argumentative Essay

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

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

Forming General Arguments

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

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

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

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

Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

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

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

Laws & Policies

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

Science & Technology

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

Pop Culture & the Arts

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

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

How to Write Essay Titles and Headers

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

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

Writing a Standout College Admissions Essay

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

Argumentative Essay Guide

Argumentative Essay Topics

Last updated on: Dec 19, 2023

Argumentative Essay Topics - Compelling Ideas to Get Started

By: Jared P.

18 min read

Reviewed By: Melisa C.

Published on: Oct 22, 2019

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

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

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

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

So read on and make choosing a topic easier!

On this Page

Argumentative Essay Topics for students

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

Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle School

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

Argumentative Essay Topics for Grade 6 

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

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

Argumentative Essay Topics for 7th Graders 

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

Argumentative Essay Topics for Grade 8

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

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

Argumentative Essay Topics for High School

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

Argumentative Essay Topics for College Students

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

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That's our Job!

Argumentative Essay Topics for University Students 

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

Argumentative Essay Topics for O Levels 

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

Discover Captivating Topics in a Click!

Best Argumentative Essay Topics

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

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

Sports Argumentative Essay Topics

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

Argumentative Essay Topics Education

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

Social Media Argumentative Essay Topics

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

Argumentative Essay Topics Technology

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

American History Argumentative Essay Topics

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

Mental Health Argumentative Essay Topics 

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

Social Issues Argumentative Topics

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

Argumentative Essay Topics Animals

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

Argumentative Research Paper Topics

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

Unique Argumentative Essay Topics

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

Controversial Argumentative Essay Topics

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

Easy Argumentative Essay Topics

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

Fun Argumentative Essay Topics

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

Tough Essay Due? Hire Tough Writers!

Argumentative Essay Topics 2022

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

Argumentative Essay Topics 2023

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

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

Choosing a Good Argumentative Essay Topic

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

But what are you going to write about?

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

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

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

What Makes a Good Argumentative Essay?

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

Strong Introduction and Thesis 

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

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

Good Research and Evidence 

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

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

Organized Structure 

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

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

Effective Conclusion 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Masters Essay, Literature

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

Was This Blog Helpful?

Keep reading.

• Learn How to Write an Argumentative Essay

• How to Create a Strong Argumentative Essay Outline?

• Informative Argumentative Essay Examples by Experts

• Know About Types of Argument with the Help of Examples

People Also Read

• thematic statement
• expository essay examples
• thesis introduction writing
• how to write an essay

Burdened With Assignments?

Advertisement

• Homework Services: Essay Topics Generator

© 2024 - All rights reserved

• [email protected]
• (650) 338-8226

Cupertino, CA

• Our Philosophy
• Our Results
• News, Media, and Press
• Common Application
• College Application Essay Editing
• Extracurricular Planning
• Academic Guidance
• Summer Programs
• Interview Preparation

Middle School

• Pre-High School Consultation
• Boarding School Admissions

College Admissions

• Academic and Extracurricular Profile Evaluation
• Senior Editor College Application Program
• Summer Program Applications
• Private Consulting Program
• Transfer Admissions
• UC Transfer Admissions
• Ivy League Transfer Admissions

Graduate Admissions

• Graduate School Admissions
• MBA Admissions

Private Tutoring

• SAT/ACT Tutoring
• AP Exam Tutoring
• Olympiad Training

Research Programs

• Science Research Program
• Humanities Competitions
• Passion Project Program
• Ad Hoc Consulting
• Athletic Recruitment
• National Universities Rankings
• Liberal Arts Colleges Rankings
• Public Schools Rankings

Acceptance Rates

• University Acceptance Rates
• Transfer Acceptance Rates
• Supplemental Essays
• College Admissions Data
• Chances Calculator
• GPA Calculator

National Universities

• College Acceptance Rates
• College Overall Acceptance Rates
• College Regular Acceptance Rates
• College Early Acceptance Rates
• Ivy League Acceptance Rates
• Ivy League Overall Acceptance Rates
• Ivy League Regular Acceptance Rates
• Ivy League Early Acceptance Rates

Public Schools

• Public Schools Acceptance Rates
• Public Schools Overall Acceptance Rates
• Public Schools Regular Acceptance Rates
• Public Schools Early Acceptance Rates

Liberal Arts

• Liberal Arts Colleges Acceptance Rates
• Liberal Arts Colleges Overall Acceptance Rates
• Liberal Arts Colleges Regular Acceptance Rates
• Liberal Arts Colleges Early Acceptance Rates

100 Good Argumentative Essay Topics: Examples and Tips

By Eric Eng

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

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

List of Good Argumentative Essay Topics

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

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

Social issues argumentative essay topics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Should there be tougher laws against online bullying?

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

Technology and innovation argumentative essay topics

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Should the government step in and regulate cryptocurrencies?

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

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

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

Education argumentative essay topics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Health and medicine argumentative essay topics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Environmental issues argumentative essay topics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Politics and governance argumentative essay topics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ethics and morality argumentative essay topics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Economics and business argumentative essay topics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Media and entertainment argumentative essay topics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Law and justice argumentative essay topics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Relevance

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

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

2. Debatability

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

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

3. Research availability

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

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

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

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

1. Understand the structure.

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

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

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

2. Craft a strong thesis statement.

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

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

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

3. Develop your argument.

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

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

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

4. Address counterarguments.

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

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

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

5. Conclude your essay.

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

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

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

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

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

What is a great topic for an argumentative essay?

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

What are unique argumentative essay topics?

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

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

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

What are fun argumentative essay topics?

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

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

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

What are cause and effect essay topics?

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

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

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

What are good argumentative essay topics for college students?

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

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

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

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

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

Want to assess your chances of admission? Take our FREE chances calculator today!

Why College Admissions Isn’t Perfect

US News Rankings

The Personal Statement: The Holy Grail of College Admissions

The Modern Day 4.0 and 1600 SAT Score Student Is No Longer Impressive

The Competitive Nature of College Admissions for Asian Americans

The College Application

Our Comprehensive Approach

Ivy League Schools

How Early Should You Prepare for College?

Featured in US News & World Report Best Colleges Publication

Congratulations to AdmissionSight Students and their Acceptances!

College Rejection

College Rankings

College Consultants Could Make A Difference

College Admissions Scandal and Higher Education

How to Nail Your Overcoming a Challenge Essay: Advice and Tips

What Happens If You Fail a Class in College? Insights + Tips

Do You Need a Bachelor’s to Get a Master’s Degree?

Top 7 Hidden Ivies in the US: Stats + Tips

What Can You Do with a Philosophy Degree? Job Prospects + Insights

Top 16 National Awards for High School Students

Top 10 Best Sororities in the US

How to Superscore Your SAT: Insights + Tips

Life after College: Insights and Advice

11 Best STEM Colleges in the US

Best Law Student Jobs to Make Money During Law School

The Top 5 Dental Schools in the US This 2024

Top Target Schools for Investment Banking Worldwide

The 7 Best Political Science Universities in Europe

How to Get into MIT: Admission Requirements and Tips

Is Lehigh University a Good School? All You Need to Know Before Applying

How to Succeed in the Duke Premed Track

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Recent Articles

How to Nail Your Overcoming...

What Happens If You Fail...

Do You Need a Bachelor’s...

Top 7 Hidden Ivies in...

What Can You Do with...

Top 16 National Awards for...

Top 10 Best Sororities in...

How to Superscore Your SAT:...

Life after College: Insights and...

11 Best STEM Colleges in...

Best Law Student Jobs to...

The Top 5 Dental Schools...

Sign up now to receive insights on how to navigate the college admissions process..

Admissions Counseling

• Academic & Extracurricular Profile Evaluation

Copyright © AdmissionSight 2024

Privacy Policy - Terms and Conditions

Argumentative Essay Topics and Ideas

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

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

Feeling Overwhelmed by Constant Writing Process?

With our help, you can earn the grade you deserve without the stress and hassle of trying to do it all on your own.

Examples of Argumentative Essay Topics

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

Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle Schoolers

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

Argumentative Essay Topics for High School Students

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

Argumentative Essay Topics for College Students

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

Controversial Argumentative Essay Topics

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

Funny Argumentative Essay Topics

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

Are you too exhausted to be in the mood for jokes? Then address our writers, saying, ‘ do my essay ,’ so they can help you within the blink of an eye. 

Topics for Argumentative Speech

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

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

Argument Topics on Social Media 

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

Argument Topics on Music

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

Health Argumentative Essay Topics

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

Argument Topics on Science and Technology

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

Argument Topics on Sports

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

Argument Topics on Government

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

Argument Topics on TV, Movies, Video Games

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

How to Choose Argumentative Essay Topics

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

Explore Your Interests

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

Consider Controversy

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

Assess Current Relevance

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

Narrow Down Broad Topics

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

Evaluate Feasibility

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

Check for Personal Connection

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

Seek Feedback

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

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

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

Spending Hours on Essays Just to Receive Mediocre Grades?

 With our writing services , you can rest assured that you will receive a well-written, compelling essay that will impress your professors.

What Is the Five-Paragraph Argumentative Essay?

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

Daniel Parker

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

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

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

Argumentative essay topics: 100 Useful ideas to probe

Published March 20, 2021. Updated December 22, 2021.

Writing an argumentative essay involves taking a stand on a topic, formulating a thesis statement, finding the evidence to support what you are saying, and choosing the best way to organize and analyze your evidence. For many students, the most difficult part is simply figuring out where to begin. Your instructor may provide you with a list of topic options, or you may be responsible for choosing your own. Either way, it is ideal to choose a topic that is important to you personally and/or that you have knowledge of, as this will make the process of writing your essay smoother and make it easier for you to refute the other side’s arguments.

An argumentative essay uses the rhetorical techniques of logos (logic), pathos (emotions), and ethos (ethics/credibility) to convince your reader that your side of the argument is correct. In order to do this, you will need to find a wide variety of evidence from credible sources, and you will need to appeal to both logic and emotions as you write your argumentative essay. Each point of evidence needs to be explained and linked back to your thesis so that the entire argument is effective and flows well.

Worried about your writing? Submit your paper for a Chegg Writing essay check , or for an Expert Check proofreading . Both can help you find and fix potential writing issues.

Topic and Guide Overview

This page will cover the following points:

Argumentative essay topics on the environment

Argumentative essay topics on literature, argumentative essay topics on politics and government, argumentative essay topics on technology, argumentative essay topics on health, argumentative essay topics on education, argumentative essay topics on music and art, argumentative essay topics on ethics, argumentative essay topics on gender issues, argumentative essay topics on the justice system, tips to choosing a good argumentative essay topic, troubleshooting.

The environment is ever-changing and certainly offers a chance for some strong opinions about what should and should not be done to sustain it.  Try one of these hot button topics around which to formulate a strong argumentative essay.

• What is the primary cause of global warming?
• Can climate change be reversed? How can we go about doing that?
• Do plastics harm the environment?
• How can biodiversity be protected to avoid animal extinction?
• What is the best model for sustainability?
• How does pollution affect the health of humans?
• Can the shortage of fresh water be rectified?
• When the rain forest is destroyed, what future medicines or solutions to medical problems are also being destroyed?
• How can we continue to get rid of waste without (over)polluting our planet?
• What can be done about soil degradation to avoid further food security issues?

Many literature classes will call on you to argue about a piece of literature, whether prose or poetry. There are also a plethora of other arguable topics surrounding literature, with a few choice ideas listed below.

• How does William Shakespeare portray gender equality or inequality in his plays?
• How can the traditional literary canon taught in most high schools achieve more diversity in order to represent all high school students by its scope?
• Can rap music be considered poetry?
• Is Shakespeare the actual author of his works?
• Would we have true literature and drama without the Greeks?
• Is there a difference between reading a printed book and reading an ebook?
• Should young children read shortened versions of “the classics” or wait until they can understand the full original version?
• Since there are so many literary awards, does receiving one mean anything?
• What is the oldest poetry known to man?
• How can literature be used to increase racial understanding?

As the country seems to grow more divisive, there is certainly no shortage of issues to debate politically. Looking at the government from different angles can supply you with important topics  that can lead to well-developed argumentative essays.

• Should America provide a single program to offer health care coverage for all?
• Should there be a guaranteed minimum income for all Americans?
• How should the country deal with the issue of immigrants or those seeking political asylum?
• Can the Democrats and Republicans find common ground? Is there a third-party choice?
• Should the United States regulate its power grids or allow them to be privatized?
• Is systemic racism an issue, and if so, what can be done about it?
• What should be the United States’ stance on handing out aid to foreign entities?
• Should the Electoral College be abolished?
• Should the voting day in the United States be a national holiday?
• Should the government finance college for all?

The world of technology changes in the blink of an eye, and it can be argued that not all change is good. As the world of technology is changing daily, these cutting-edge topics can make for some heated debates.

• What measures could and should be taken to keep data private?
• Are bots taking jobs from humans? How much automation is too much?
• What can be done about the ever-growing national security threats relating to cybersecurity?
• What are the ramifications for a city like Seattle when there is a high concentration of tech companies? Are they mostly positive or negative?
• Will the use of technology in the classroom make hybrid learning a new norm?
• Should WiFi be a public utility?
• Are parents using the technology of cell phones to create a new generation of socially awkward adults?
• How can artificial intelligence solve the problem of countries with declining populations?
• Does the government have the responsibility to get broadband to extremely rural areas?
• How can technology ensure that people’s identity remains protected?

Some say the United States healthcare industry is in crisis, and whether or not that is true, there are certainly some arguable topics surrounding the health of the nation.

• Can Americans overcome the obesity problem plaguing the nation?
• Will mental illness ever be considered without a stigma as physical illness is?
• What can be done to stop the opioid epidemic?
• Do people in poorer/lower-income neighborhoods experience more pollution? Does income relate to health or pollution?
• Should children have to be vaccinated before going to school?
• Should pharmaceutical companies be regulated to give affordable medicine to all?
• Should there be universal health care in the United States?
• Is a vegan diet beneficial or detrimental?
• Is cloning ethical?
• Do mental health patients receive any benefits from physical activity?

It’s no secret that there is much to debate about education, from how schools should allocate funds, to who should be in school. There is a plethora of arguments to be made, and an ample amount of current data to use for your research.

• How should the government acquire funding for education?
• How valid are standardized tests? Should they be administered?
• What should the role of charter or voucher programs be?
• How can teachers reconcile the impact of poverty in their classrooms?
• Is homeschooling more beneficial than traditional (in-person) schooling?
• Should schools supply laptops to even the playing field for students?
• Should the school day start later?
• Should public college be tuition free?
• Should schools reconsider the summer break and go year-round?
• Are traditional college and university degrees more/just as/less valuable than experience, bootcamps, and other forms of education?

Some people argue that music and art are frivolous undertakings, while for others these are more important than life itself. Music and art certainly lend themselves to some arguable topics!

• How can music piracy be ended so that people buy music rather than steal it?
• Is art important in people’s lives?
• Should the pursuits of the creative arts be funded by the government?
• Should people take the time to study pop culture as a serious undertaking?
• How much can musical artists “borrow” from those who came before them?
• Does private art belong in public spaces?
• Does music help or hurt you as you are studying?
• Do violent music lyrics make people violent?
• Should students have to take an art class?
• What is the relationship between art and mental health?

The way you live your life matters, but how can society’s members figure out the best way to do so? Within this framework there are a variety of questions that could be argued and answered.

• What can be done about the pharmaceutical industry and its greed?
• How does social media affect human socialization?
• What are the ramifications of adopting a child from a different ethnicity?
• Does suffering make people stronger?
• Should people have a lower opinion of those who often curse?
• Do bystanders have an obligation to intervene if they witness a crime, accident, or other emergency?
• What are the moral ramifications of genetic engineering?
• Can mass surveillance be justified for the common good?
• Are zoos and circuses ethical?
• Should internet hate speech be censored?

With as modern as the world seems to be, there is still a divide between the genders on the playing field, in the boardroom, and even in private homes. There are many debatable topics surrounding these issues.

• How can society fight sexual violence against women?
• Are men free to be emotional?
• What can be done with the double standard of male and female athletes?
• Do families have different standards for boys and girls? Should they?
• How can sexual harassment in the workplace be eliminated or prevented?
• What can be done to ensure equal pay for women?
• Why are women promoted less than men? Why do women make less than men?
• What can be done to stop human trafficking?
• Has the feminist movement achieved what it set out to do? Is there currently equality between the sexes?
• Does gender bias impact medical treatment today?

The justice system presents many topics that are appropriate for use in an argumentative essay. There are many pressing issues with guns, prisons, and justice, and certainly two or more sides to every issue.

• Should any prisons be for profit? What are the ramifications of this?
• Should prosecutors have as much power as they do to make plea bargains?
• What can be done about the color bias in the justice system?
• How can future mass shootings best be prevented?
• Should former felons be allowed to vote?
• Should taxpayers pay for prisoners to receive an education while incarcerated?
• What is the purpose of prison?
• What strategies can be used to eradicate the problem of gun violence?
• Should children continue to be allowed to be tried as adults?
• How can the stigma of prison be lifted for families of inmates?

Before you turn in that paper, don’t forget to cite your sources in APA format , MLA format , or a style of your choice.

The scope of your argumentative essay topic will affect the entire process of writing your paper, so choosing a topic carefully is of the utmost importance. Keep the following tips in mind as you get started:

• In order to argue effectively, you need to take a stand, or take a side. If you choose a topic you feel strongly about, you will already be leaning towards one side or another.
• Pre-search involves taking a wide view of a topic and information sources. Be sure that there are enough legitimate sources to support your argument and help you create a powerful essay.
• Choosing a topic that has at least two sides will make for a more gripping argumentative essay. Additionally, it will be a lot easier to write!
• A good argumentative essay will utilize logos (an appeal to logic), pathos (an appeal to emotion), and ethos (an appeal to credibility.) Searching for a topic with these three techniques in mind will help you to create a great argumentative essay.
• Make sure to check the course assignments and syllabus to ensure that the topic you have in mind is viable for the particular requirements of the assignment.
• No matter which way you choose to set up your argument, you will need to refute the other side’s argument. This means that you will need a working understanding of the opposite viewpoint to create a valid argument.
• The problem with many argumentative essay topics is that they have been overused. Anytime you can choose a topic that is original and creative, you will be setting yourself up for success.

Solution #1: How to use logos to strengthen an argument

Logos is a rhetorical appeal where logic and reasoning are used to persuade your audience. This involves facts, statistics, charts, and other data-driven evidence to support your argument. Constructing an argument that lacks logical fallacies and is rational, consistent, and coherent also is a critical aspect of successful logos. This also further enhances your ethos, demonstrating your credibility to the audience.

To successfully incorporate logical appeals, it’s important to analyze your audience, specifically their background, attitudes, values, interests, etc. This ensures that you’re using reasoning that they can understand and are receptive to. For example, you wouldn’t try to convince a student to support a shorter school day the same way as you would convince the school committee.

Solution #2: What sources should be used to research topics

When researching an argument, it’s important to ensure that you are utilizing credible sources to collect evidence. Especially when navigating controversial topics, it’s common to encounter sources that are also making an argument in favor of either side. This can sometimes include information that is untrue or withholds critical details. Identifying potential biases of an author or publication will help distinguish if the information provided is reliable.

Peer-reviewed scholarly journals are often the most reliable source of information on a topic.  These articles are written by academics, experts, and researchers, and are further evaluated by numerous similarly qualified individuals throughout the editorial and publication process. Primary sources like historical documents, first-hand reports and press releases, as well as databases and information collected from official institutions, are also more likely to be credible.

When evaluating sources, here are some questions to consider:

• Ex: An article published by a solar company about the benefits of switching to solar panels
• What expertise and credentials does the author have?
• Can the article be edited by anyone online?
• Ex: Research conducted decades ago likely does not reflect current conditions and potential results.

While you should use caution when using anecdotal evidence or information from less reputable sources, it’s also important to recognize that newer topics may have limited academic research available. Further, the exploration of topics and experiences in academia is limited by the barriers in access to higher education. With many voices historically excluded from these institutions, marginalized communities have often had to publish their stories and findings on alternative forums outside of academia.

Solution #3: How to write about sensitive topics

When writing an essay on a sensitive topic, arguments should be presented ethically and comprehensively. It’s critical to fully understand the issue at hand, the different opinions surrounding it, contributing factors, and which communities are most affected by it.

Here are some tips for handling topics that might provoke strong emotions and reactions:

• Use inclusive language
• Avoid stereotypes
• Consider your own biases
• Conduct extensive research and ensure sources are credible
• If including potentially triggering information is crucial to your argument, ensure that your audience is properly warned and prepared about the content featured in your argument

What’s included with a Chegg Writing subscription

• Unlimited number of paper scans
• Plagiarism detection: Check against billions of sources
• Expert proofreading for papers on any subject
• Grammar scans for 200+ types of common errors
• Automatically create & save citations in 7,000+ styles
• Cancel subscription anytime, no obligation

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

EveryWriter

A New Community of Writers

500 Argumentative Essay Topics 

May 13, 2024 by Richard Leave a Comment

Argumentative writing is a crucial skill that enables individuals to articulate their ideas, persuade others, and contribute to meaningful discussions on a wide range of topics. From the classroom to the boardroom, the ability to construct a well-reasoned and compelling argument is essential for success in academia, career, and life. However, the process of choosing a suitable topic and crafting a strong argument can be daunting, especially for those who are new to this type of writing.

To help writers navigate this challenge, we have compiled an extensive list of 500 argumentative essay topics across various disciplines, including science, technology, education, politics, environment, healthcare, media, and the arts. These topics are designed to spark curiosity, encourage critical thinking, and inspire writers to explore diverse perspectives and ideas.

The topics in this article are carefully selected to cover a broad spectrum of subjects, catering to different interests and levels of expertise. Whether you are a student seeking inspiration for your next essay, a researcher looking to delve into a specific area of study, or an individual passionate about a particular issue, you will find a wealth of ideas to choose from.

Each section of the article focuses on a specific theme, providing a brief introduction to the topic and its significance. The topics are presented in the form of questions or statements, inviting writers to take a stance and develop a well-structured argument supported by evidence and examples. By engaging with these topics, writers can enhance their analytical skills, broaden their knowledge, and contribute to ongoing debates and discussions.

As you explore the topics in this article, keep in mind that argumentative writing is not about proving others wrong or winning an argument at all costs. Instead, it is an opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue, consider multiple viewpoints, and arrive at a deeper understanding of complex issues. By approaching these topics with an open mind, a willingness to learn, and a commitment to logical reasoning, you can develop your skills as a writer and contribute to the rich tapestry of ideas that shape our world.

Science is a vast and ever-evolving field that seeks to understand the world around us through observation, experimentation, and analysis. From the smallest subatomic particles to the expansive reaches of the universe, science aims to uncover the fundamental principles that govern our reality. As our scientific knowledge grows, so too do the questions and debates surrounding the ethical, social, and environmental implications of scientific advancement.

In this section, we will explore 50 thought-provoking argumentative writing topics in science. These topics span a wide range of scientific disciplines, including biology, physics, chemistry, environmental science, and more. Each topic is designed to challenge you to think critically about the complex issues that arise at the intersection of science, technology, and society.

As you delve into these topics, you will have the opportunity to examine the evidence, consider multiple perspectives, and formulate your own well-reasoned arguments. Whether you are passionate about the potential of genetic engineering, concerned about the impact of climate change, or curious about the ethical implications of artificial intelligence, these topics will provide a platform for you to engage in meaningful discussion and debate. So, let’s dive in and explore the fascinating world of science through the lens of argumentative writing.

Here are 50 argumentative writing topics in science:

• Should genetically modified organisms (GMOs) be labeled?
• Is climate change primarily caused by human activities?
• Should vaccines be mandatory for all children?
• Is nuclear energy a viable alternative to fossil fuels?
• Should animal testing be banned in scientific research?
• Is space exploration worth the cost?
• Should we prioritize funding for renewable energy research?
• Is the use of pesticides in agriculture harmful to human health?
• Should we ban the use of plastic bags and packaging?
• Is the current approach to antibiotic use in livestock farming sustainable?
• Should we invest more in research on alternative medicine?
• Is the use of stem cells in medical research ethical?
• Should we ban the sale of sugary drinks to combat obesity?
• Is the use of biotechnology in agriculture safe for the environment?
• Should we prioritize the conservation of endangered species?
• Is the use of nanotechnology in consumer products safe?
• Should we ban the use of fossil fuels?
• Is the current approach to waste management sustainable?
• Should we invest more in research on renewable energy storage?
• Is the use of antibiotics in animal agriculture contributing to antibiotic resistance?
• Should we prioritize funding for space exploration over other scientific research?
• Is the use of fracking for natural gas extraction safe for the environment?
• Should we ban the use of neonicotinoid pesticides to protect bees?
• Is the current approach to fisheries management sustainable?
• Should we prioritize funding for research on alternative protein sources?
• Is the use of genetic engineering in agriculture ethical?
• Should we ban the use of plastic microbeads in personal care products?
• Is the current approach to forest management sustainable?
• Should we prioritize funding for research on carbon capture and storage?
• Is the use of artificial intelligence in decision-making processes ethical?
• Should we ban the sale of products containing triclosan?
• Is the current approach to water management sustainable?
• Should we prioritize funding for research on nuclear fusion?
• Is the use of nanoparticles in food products safe for human consumption?
• Should we ban the use of lead in all consumer products?
• Is the current approach to wildlife management effective in preventing species extinction?
• Should we prioritize funding for research on gene therapy?
• Is the use of 3D printing technology in manufacturing sustainable?
• Should we ban the use of coal-fired power plants?
• Is the current approach to land use management sustainable?
• Should we prioritize funding for research on quantum computing?
• Is the use of autonomous vehicles safe for public roads?
• Should we ban the use of single-use plastics in all consumer products?
• Is the current approach to coral reef conservation effective?
• Should we prioritize funding for research on personalized medicine?
• Is the use of artificial intelligence in healthcare ethical?
• Should we ban the use of glyphosate in agriculture?
• Is the current approach to invasive species management effective?
• Should we prioritize funding for research on geoengineering?
• Is the use of facial recognition technology in public spaces ethical?

These topics cover a wide range of scientific fields, including environmental science, biotechnology, medicine, and more. They are designed to be thought-provoking and encourage critical thinking and analysis.

Education is the foundation upon which individuals and societies build their future. It is through education that we acquire knowledge, develop critical thinking skills, and cultivate a lifelong love for learning. The education system, however, is not without its challenges and controversies. From issues of equity and access to questions about curriculum and teaching methods, the field of education is ripe with opportunities for debate and discussion.

In this section, we present 50 argumentative writing topics related to education. These topics cover a wide range of issues, from the role of technology in the classroom to the funding of public schools. Some of these topics may challenge long-held assumptions about education, while others may inspire you to think about the purpose and value of education in new ways.

As you explore these topics, you will have the chance to consider multiple perspectives, analyze evidence, and develop your own well-reasoned arguments. Whether you are a student, teacher, parent, or simply someone who cares about the future of education, these topics will provide a platform for meaningful dialogue and reflection.

Education has the power to transform lives and shape the course of history. By engaging in thoughtful, informed debate about the issues facing our education system, we can work towards creating a more just, equitable, and effective learning environment for all. So, let’s dive in and explore the complex and fascinating world of education through the lens of argumentative writing.

Here are 50 argumentative writing topics in education:

• Should standardized testing be eliminated in schools?
• Is homeschooling more effective than traditional schooling?
• Should schools have a later start time to improve student performance?
• Is technology in the classroom a help or a hindrance to learning?
• Should schools focus more on life skills rather than academic subjects?
• Is the current grading system an effective way to measure student learning?
• Should schools have a dress code?
• Is it fair to pay teachers based on student performance?
• Should college education be free for everyone?
• Is the current curriculum in schools diverse enough?
• Should schools have a zero-tolerance policy for bullying?
• Is homework beneficial for student learning?
• Should physical education be mandatory in schools?
• Is the current system of funding for public schools equitable?
• Should schools teach sex education?
• Is standardized testing a fair way to measure teacher effectiveness?
• Should schools have a more diverse teaching staff?
• Is the current model of special education effective?
• Should schools prioritize STEM subjects over the arts?
• Is the current system of school discipline effective?
• Should schools have a more project-based learning approach?
• Is the current model of teacher training effective?
• Should schools have a later start time for high school students?
• Is the current system of school choice fair?
• Should schools have a more diverse curriculum?
• Is the current model of gifted education effective?
• Should schools prioritize social-emotional learning?
• Is the current system of standardized testing biased?
• Should schools have a more individualized approach to learning?
• Is the current model of school counseling effective?
• Should schools have a more diverse student body?
• Is the current system of teacher evaluation fair?
• Should schools prioritize critical thinking skills over memorization?
• Is the current model of school discipline disproportionately affecting certain groups of students?
• Should schools have a more hands-on learning approach?
• Is the current system of school funding sustainable?
• Should schools prioritize foreign language education?
• Is the current model of special education inclusion effective?
• Should schools have a more diverse curriculum that includes non-Western perspectives?
• Is the current system of college admissions fair?
• Should schools prioritize mental health education?
• Is the current model of teacher professional development effective?
• Should schools have a more interdisciplinary approach to learning?
• Is the current system of school accountability effective?
• Should schools prioritize financial literacy education?
• Is the current model of school discipline effective in reducing recidivism?
• Should schools have a more culturally responsive curriculum?
• Is the current system of school choice leading to increased segregation?
• Should schools prioritize environmental education?
• Is the current model of teacher retention effective?

These topics cover a wide range of issues related to education, including curriculum, funding, discipline, equity, and more. They are designed to encourage critical thinking and analysis of current practices and policies in education.

for High School Students

As high school students, you are at a crucial stage in your personal and academic development. You are beginning to form your own opinions, values, and beliefs about the world around you. At the same time, you are grappling with the challenges and pressures of adolescence, from navigating social relationships to preparing for college and careers. Argumentative writing provides a powerful tool for exploring these complex issues and making your voice heard.

In this section, we offer 50 argumentative writing topics specifically tailored to the interests and concerns of high school students. These topics cover a wide range of subjects, from social media and technology to politics and social justice. Some of these topics may feel particularly relevant to your own life experiences, while others may challenge you to consider new perspectives and ideas.

As you engage with these topics, you will have the opportunity to develop critical thinking and communication skills that will serve you well beyond high school. You will learn to research and evaluate evidence, construct logical arguments, and anticipate and respond to counterarguments. Perhaps most importantly, you will gain confidence in your own ability to express your thoughts and opinions in a clear, compelling way.

High school is a time of growth, exploration, and self-discovery. By tackling these argumentative writing topics, you can take an active role in shaping your own intellectual and personal development. So, let’s dive in and explore the issues that matter most to you and your peers. Whether you are writing for a class assignment or simply for your own enrichment, these topics will provide a platform for you to find your voice and make a difference in the world.

Here are 50 argumentative writing topics for teens:

• Should the voting age be lowered to 16?
• Is social media a positive or negative influence on teens?
• Is online learning as effective as traditional classroom learning?
• Should student athletes be paid?
• Is the current education system preparing students for the real world?
• Should schools start later in the day?
• Is technology making us more or less connected?
• Should the drinking age be lowered?
• Is it fair to ban certain breeds of dogs?
• Should teens be allowed to get tattoos or piercings without parental consent?
• Is the current grading system in schools effective?
• Should college be free for everyone?
• Is social media causing a rise in narcissism among teens?
• Should schools teach life skills like financial literacy and cooking?
• Is the current minimum wage high enough?
• Should beauty pageants for children be banned?
• Is the criminal justice system biased against certain groups?
• Should animal testing be banned?
• Is the current sex education curriculum in schools adequate?
• Is the current healthcare system in the US effective?
• Should the government provide free healthcare for all citizens?
• Is affirmative action fair?
• Should schools require students to wear uniforms?
• Is the current political system in the US democratic?
• Should the electoral college be abolished?
• Is the death penalty an effective deterrent to crime?
• Should marijuana be legalized nationwide?
• Is the current immigration system in the US fair?
• Should the government provide a universal basic income?
• Is the current education system inclusive enough?
• Should schools teach more about mental health?
• Is the current justice system rehabilitative or punitive?
• Should the government regulate social media companies?
• Is the current gun control legislation in the US effective?
• Should the government provide free college education?
• Is the current welfare system in the US effective?
• Should schools have metal detectors?
• Is the current political climate in the US divisive?
• Should the government invest more in renewable energy?
• Is the current education system equitable for all students?
• Should schools teach more about environmental issues?
• Is the current healthcare system in the US accessible to all?
• Should the government provide more funding for mental health services?
• Is the current criminal justice system fair?
• Is the current political system in the US representative of all citizens?
• Should the government provide more funding for the arts?
• Is the current education system preparing students for the jobs of the future?

These topics cover a range of social, political, and educational issues that are relevant to teens. They are designed to encourage critical thinking, research, and the development of persuasive arguments.

Technology has become an integral part of our daily lives, transforming the way we communicate, work, learn, and entertain ourselves. From smartphones and social media to artificial intelligence and robotics, the rapid pace of technological advancement has brought both incredible opportunities and complex challenges. As we navigate this ever-changing landscape, it is crucial that we engage in thoughtful, informed discussions about the implications of technology for our society and our future.

In this section, we present 50 argumentative writing topics related to technology. These topics cover a wide range of issues, from the impact of automation on the job market to the ethics of data privacy and surveillance. Some of these topics may be familiar to you, while others may introduce new ideas and perspectives.

As you explore these topics, you will have the chance to consider the ways in which technology intersects with other fields, such as politics, economics, and culture. You will be challenged to think critically about the benefits and drawbacks of technological innovation, and to consider the role that individuals, communities, and governments can play in shaping the future of technology.

Whether you are a tech enthusiast or a skeptic, these argumentative writing topics will provide a platform for you to engage in meaningful dialogue and debate. By researching and writing about these issues, you can develop a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between technology and society, and contribute to the ongoing conversation about how we can harness the power of technology for the greater good. So, let’s dive in and explore the fascinating and ever-evolving world of technology through the lens of argumentative writing

Here are 50 argumentative writing topics in technology:

• Is artificial intelligence a threat to human jobs?
• Should facial recognition technology be banned?
• Is social media a net positive or negative for society?
• Should there be more regulation of big tech companies?
• Is cryptocurrency the future of money?
• Should personal data be considered personal property?
• Is the internet making us smarter or dumber?
• Should the government have the right to access encrypted data?
• Is automation a threat to the economy?
• Should there be a universal basic income to offset job losses due to technology?
• Is the rise of fake news a threat to democracy?
• Should there be more diversity in the tech industry?
• Is the gig economy exploitative?
• Should there be a “right to disconnect” from work-related technology?
• Is the current patent system stifling innovation?
• Should there be more regulation of artificial intelligence?
• Is technology widening the digital divide?
• Should there be a tax on robots?
• Is the internet of things a security risk?
• Should there be more funding for space exploration?
• Is the current model of data privacy regulation effective?
• Should there be more regulation of autonomous vehicles?
• Is technology making us more isolated?
• Should there be a universal standard for ethical AI?
• Is the current model of intellectual property law outdated?
• Should there be more regulation of cybersecurity?
• Is technology making us more sedentary?
• Should there be a “right to repair” for electronic devices?
• Is the current model of net neutrality effective?
• Should there be more regulation of blockchain technology?
• Is technology making us more distracted?
• Should there be a universal standard for data portability?
• Is the current model of content moderation on social media effective?
• Should there be more regulation of e-waste?
• Is technology making us more polarized?
• Should there be a universal standard for digital accessibility?
• Is the current model of antitrust regulation effective for tech companies?
• Should there be more regulation of biometric data?
• Is technology making us more narcissistic?
• Should there be a universal standard for algorithmic transparency?
• Is the current model of tech education effective?
• Should there be more regulation of deepfakes?
• Is technology making us more impatient?
• Should there be a universal standard for digital privacy?
• Is the current model of online advertising sustainable?
• Should there be more regulation of facial recognition technology in public spaces?
• Is technology making us more connected or more disconnected?
• Should there be a universal standard for responsible innovation in tech?
• Is the current model of tech journalism objective?
• Should there be more regulation of tech mergers and acquisitions?

Healthcare 

Healthcare is a fundamental human right and a critical issue that affects every individual and community. It encompasses a wide range of topics, from access to quality care and affordable insurance to medical research and public health initiatives. In recent years, healthcare has become an increasingly complex and controversial field, with debates raging over issues such as the role of government in healthcare provision, the high cost of prescription drugs, and the impact of lifestyle choices on individual and population health.

In this section, we present 50 argumentative writing topics related to healthcare. These topics cover a diverse range of issues, from the ethics of gene editing and stem cell research to the challenges of addressing mental health and addiction. Some of these topics may be familiar to you, while others may introduce new ideas and perspectives.

As you explore these topics, you will have the opportunity to consider the ways in which healthcare intersects with other fields, such as politics, economics, and social justice. You will be challenged to think critically about the various stakeholders involved in healthcare, including patients, providers, insurers, and policymakers, and to consider the complex trade-offs and decisions that must be made in order to ensure access to quality care for all.

Whether you are a healthcare professional, a patient, or simply someone who cares about the well-being of yourself and others, these argumentative writing topics will provide a platform for you to engage in meaningful dialogue and debate. By researching and writing about these issues, you can develop a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the healthcare system, and contribute to the ongoing conversation about how we can build a healthier, more equitable future for all. So, let’s dive in and explore the vital and ever-evolving field of healthcare through the lens of argumentative writing.

Here are 50 argumentative writing topics in health care:

• Should the United States adopt a universal healthcare system?
• Is the current pharmaceutical patent system stifling innovation?
• Should there be more regulation of alternative medicine?
• Is the current model of medical education effective?
• Should there be more funding for mental health services?
• Is the current system of organ donation fair?
• Should there be more regulation of the food industry to combat obesity?
• Is the current model of end-of-life care effective?
• Should there be more regulation of the tobacco industry?
• Is the current system of medical malpractice litigation effective?
• Should there be more funding for research into rare diseases?
• Is the current model of healthcare pricing transparent?
• Should there be more regulation of the cosmetic surgery industry?
• Is the current system of vaccine development and distribution effective?
• Should there be more funding for preventive healthcare?
• Is the current model of drug pricing fair?
• Should there be more regulation of the medical device industry?
• Is the current system of mental health care accessible?
• Should there be more funding for research into alternative medicine?
• Is the current model of healthcare delivery efficient?
• Should there be more regulation of the health insurance industry?
• Is the current system of medical record-keeping effective?
• Should there be more funding for telemedicine?
• Is the current model of medical research ethical?
• Should there be more regulation of the dietary supplement industry?
• Is the current system of long-term care sustainable?
• Should there be more funding for research into health disparities?
• Is the current model of medical training diverse enough?
• Should there be more regulation of the medical tourism industry?
• Is the current system of prescription drug monitoring effective?
• Should there be more funding for research into precision medicine?
• Is the current model of healthcare reimbursement fair?
• Should there be more regulation of the hospice industry?
• Is the current system of medical licensing effective?
• Should there be more funding for research into medical marijuana?
• Is the current model of clinical trials transparent?
• Should there be more regulation of the fertility industry?
• Is the current system of medical waste disposal safe?
• Should there be more funding for research into aging and longevity?
• Is the current model of medical education affordable?
• Should there be more regulation of the medical supply chain?
• Is the current system of medical interpreting effective?
• Should there be more funding for research into health information technology?
• Is the current model of healthcare accreditation effective?
• Should there be more regulation of the home health care industry?
• Is the current system of medical referrals efficient?
• Should there be more funding for research into health literacy?
• Is the current model of medical tourism safe?
• Should there be more regulation of the concierge medicine industry?
• Is the current system of healthcare data privacy secure?

Government plays a crucial role in shaping the lives of individuals and communities, from the local to the international level. It is responsible for creating and enforcing laws, providing public services, and protecting the rights and freedoms of its citizens. However, the role and scope of government is often a topic of intense debate, with disagreements over issues such as the size and power of government, the effectiveness of various policies and programs, and the balance between individual liberty and collective responsibility.

In this section, we present 50 argumentative writing topics related to government. These topics cover a wide range of issues, from the electoral process and campaign finance reform to foreign policy and national security. Some of these topics may be familiar to you, while others may introduce new ideas and perspectives.

As you explore these topics, you will have the opportunity to consider the ways in which government intersects with other fields, such as economics, social justice, and environmental sustainability. You will be challenged to think critically about the various actors involved in government, including elected officials, bureaucrats, interest groups, and citizens, and to consider the complex trade-offs and decisions that must be made in order to promote the public good.

Whether you are a political science student, an engaged citizen, or simply someone who cares about the future of your community and country, these argumentative writing topics will provide a platform for you to engage in meaningful dialogue and debate. By researching and writing about these issues, you can develop a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing governments around the world, and contribute to the ongoing conversation about how we can build a more just, equitable, and sustainable future for all. So, let’s dive in and explore the complex and consequential world of government through the lens of argumentative writing.

Here are 50 argumentative writing topics related to government:

• Should the electoral college be abolished in favor of a popular vote?
• Is the two-party system in the United States effective?
• Should term limits be imposed on members of Congress?
• Is the current system of campaign finance reform effective?
• Should the government provide universal basic income?
• Is the current model of federalism effective?
• Should the government regulate social media platforms?
• Is the current system of presidential pardons fair?
• Is the current model of congressional redistricting fair?
• Is the current system of lobbyist regulation effective?
• Should the government decriminalize all drugs?
• Is the current model of government surveillance justified?
• Should the government mandate vaccination for all citizens?
• Is the current system of government whistleblower protection effective?
• Should the government provide universal healthcare?
• Is the current model of government regulation of business effective?
• Should the government abolish the death penalty?
• Is the current system of government funding for the arts necessary?
• Should the government provide reparations for slavery?
• Is the current model of government response to natural disasters effective?
• Should the government legalize prostitution?
• Is the current system of government regulation of the media fair?
• Should the government provide a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants?
• Is the current model of government funding for scientific research adequate?
• Should the government ban assault weapons?
• Is the current system of government regulation of the financial industry effective?
• Should the government legalize euthanasia?
• Is the current model of government funding for public education adequate?
• Should the government provide paid parental leave?
• Is the current system of government regulation of the pharmaceutical industry effective?
• Should the government abolish the Electoral College?
• Is the current model of government response to climate change adequate?
• Should the government provide a jobs guarantee?
• Is the current system of government regulation of the sharing economy (e.g. Uber, Airbnb) effective?
• Should the government legalize sex work?
• Is the current model of government funding for infrastructure adequate?
• Is the current system of government regulation of the gig economy fair?
• Should the government provide free childcare?
• Is the current model of government response to pandemics effective?
• Should the government break up big tech companies?
• Is the current system of government regulation of the sharing economy effective?
• Should the government provide a jobs guarantee for green jobs?
• Is the current model of government funding for mental health services adequate?
• Should the government cancel student debt?
• Is the current system of government regulation of the cannabis industry effective?
• Should the government reform the criminal justice system?
• Is the current model of government funding for addiction treatment adequate?

Environment 

The environment is the foundation of all life on Earth, providing the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the resources we depend on for survival. However, human activities have put increasing pressure on the environment, leading to a range of challenges such as climate change, deforestation, pollution, and loss of biodiversity. As we grapple with these challenges, it is crucial that we engage in informed and thoughtful discussions about how to balance economic development with environmental sustainability, and how to protect the planet for future generations.

In this section, we present 50 argumentative writing topics related to the environment. These topics cover a wide range of issues, from renewable energy and sustainable agriculture to wildlife conservation and environmental justice. Some of these topics may be familiar to you, while others may introduce new ideas and perspectives.

As you explore these topics, you will have the opportunity to consider the ways in which environmental issues intersect with other fields, such as politics, economics, and social justice. You will be challenged to think critically about the various stakeholders involved in environmental debates, including governments, corporations, activists, and local communities, and to consider the complex trade-offs and decisions that must be made in order to address environmental challenges.

Whether you are an environmental science student, an activist, or simply someone who cares about the health of the planet, these argumentative writing topics will provide a platform for you to engage in meaningful dialogue and debate. By researching and writing about these issues, you can develop a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the environment, and contribute to the ongoing conversation about how we can build a more sustainable and resilient future for all. So, let’s dive in and explore the vital and urgent world of environmental issues through the lens of argumentative writing.

Here are 50 argumentative writing topics related to the environment:

• Should the government ban single-use plastics?
• Is nuclear energy a viable solution to climate change?
• Should the government subsidize renewable energy?
• Is the current model of capitalism sustainable for the environment?
• Should the government impose a carbon tax?
• Is the current system of environmental regulation effective?
• Should the government invest more in public transportation?
• Is the current model of consumerism sustainable for the environment?
• Should the government ban fracking?
• Is the current system of waste management effective?
• Should the government invest more in green infrastructure?
• Is the current model of industrial agriculture sustainable for the environment?
• Should the government regulate the use of pesticides and herbicides?
• Is the current system of water management effective?
• Should the government protect more land as national parks and wildlife refuges?
• Is the current model of fast fashion sustainable for the environment?
• Should the government ban the import of products linked to deforestation?
• Is the current system of fisheries management effective?
• Should the government invest more in research and development of clean technologies?
• Is the current model of suburban sprawl sustainable for the environment?
• Should the government incentivize sustainable business practices?
• Is the current system of environmental justice effective?
• Should the government ban the use of neonicotinoid pesticides?
• Is the current model of tourism sustainable for the environment?
• Should the government protect more marine areas as reserves?
• Is the current system of environmental education effective?
• Should the government ban the export of plastic waste to developing countries?
• Is the current model of mining sustainable for the environment?
• Should the government invest more in reforestation and afforestation?
• Is the current system of environmental law enforcement effective?
• Should the government ban the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in agriculture?
• Is the current model of urbanization sustainable for the environment?
• Should the government incentivize the adoption of plant-based diets?
• Is the current system of international environmental agreements effective?
• Should the government ban the import of exotic pets?
• Is the current model of oil and gas exploration sustainable for the environment?
• Should the government invest more in environmental monitoring and data collection?
• Is the current system of environmental impact assessments effective?
• Should the government ban the use of microbeads in personal care products?
• Is the current model of globalization sustainable for the environment?
• Should the government protect more wetlands and coastal areas?
• Is the current system of recycling effective?
• Should the government ban the import of products linked to forced labor?
• Is the current model of overpopulation sustainable for the environment?
• Should the government invest more in environmental education and outreach?
• Is the current system of environmental activism effective?
• Should the government ban the use of synthetic fertilizers?
• Is the current model of energy consumption sustainable for the environment?
• Should the government prioritize environmental protection over economic growth?

These topics cover a wide range of environmental issues, including climate change, pollution, conservation, sustainability, and more. They are designed to encourage critical thinking and analysis of current policies and practices related to the environment.

Sports are an integral part of our society, bringing people together and fostering a sense of community, competition, and personal achievement. From local recreational leagues to international professional competitions, sports have the power to inspire, entertain, and unite people from all walks of life. However, the world of sports is not without its controversies and challenges, from issues of fairness and equality to the role of money and politics in shaping the athletic landscape.

In this section, we present 50 argumentative writing topics related to sports. These topics cover a wide range of issues, from the use of performance-enhancing drugs and the impact of concussions to the role of sports in promoting social justice and global understanding. Some of these topics may be familiar to you, while others may introduce new ideas and perspectives.

As you explore these topics, you will have the opportunity to consider the ways in which sports intersect with other fields, such as health, education, and media. You will be challenged to think critically about the various stakeholders involved in sports, including athletes, coaches, team owners, and fans, and to consider the complex trade-offs and decisions that must be made in order to promote fairness, safety, and integrity in sports.

Whether you are a student athlete, a sports fan, or simply someone who recognizes the cultural significance of sports, these argumentative writing topics will provide a platform for you to engage in meaningful dialogue and debate. By researching and writing about these issues, you can develop a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the world of sports, and contribute to the ongoing conversation about how we can build a more inclusive, equitable, and inspiring athletic culture for all. So, let’s dive in and explore the dynamic and multifaceted world of sports through the lens of argumentative writing.

Here are 50 argumentative writing topics related to sports:

• Should college athletes be paid?
• Is the current system of drug testing in sports effective?
• Should transgender athletes be allowed to compete in their gender category?
• Is the current model of youth sports too competitive?
• Should sports betting be legalized nationwide?
• Is the current system of player discipline in professional sports fair?
• Should the Olympics be reformed to address corruption and doping scandals?
• Is the current model of college sports exploitative of athletes?
• Should the NFL do more to address the issue of concussions and brain injuries?
• Is the current system of athletic scholarships fair?
• Should the NBA allow high school players to enter the draft?
• Is the current model of sports media biased?
• Should the NCAA allow student-athletes to profit from their name, image, and likeness?
• Is the current system of sports governance effective?
• Should the US Women’s National Soccer Team be paid the same as the men’s team?
• Is the current model of sports fandom healthy?
• Should the NFL require all players to stand for the national anthem?
• Is the current system of sports analytics overrated?
• Should the Olympics be held in the same city every four years?
• Is the current model of sports sponsorship ethical?
• Should the MLB implement a salary cap?
• Is the current system of sports journalism objective?
• Should the Paralympics receive equal coverage and funding as the Olympics?
• Is the current model of sports video games exploitative?
• Should the NFL expand to international markets?
• Is the current system of sports medicine effective?
• Should the NBA require players to attend college for at least two years?
• Is the current model of sports psychology underutilized?
• Should the FIFA World Cup be expanded to include more teams?
• Is the current system of sports officiating fair?
• Should the NHL ban fighting?
• Is the current model of sports coaching effective?
• Should the NFL allow players to use marijuana for pain management?
• Is the current system of sports broadcasting accessible?
• Should the Olympics include eSports?
• Is the current model of sports nutrition based on sound science?
• Should the NCAA allow student-athletes to unionize?
• Is the current system of sports equipment regulation effective?
• Should the NFL expand the regular season to 18 games?
• Is the current model of sports journalism diverse enough?
• Should the NBA require players to play for the team that drafts them for a minimum number of years?
• Is the current system of sports mascots and team names culturally insensitive?
• Should the Olympics be reserved for amateur athletes only?
• Is the current model of sports training safe and effective?
• Should the FIFA World Cup be hosted by countries with a history of human rights abuses?
• Is the current system of sports awards and honors meaningful?
• Should the NFL allow players to wear political or social justice messages on their uniforms?
• Is the current model of sports celebrity culture harmful?
• Should the NCAA allow student-athletes to transfer schools without penalty?
• Is the current system of sports Hall of Fame inductions fair?

Media plays a pervasive and influential role in our society, shaping our perceptions, opinions, and behaviors in countless ways. From traditional forms of media like television, radio, and print to the ever-evolving landscape of digital and social media, the media landscape is a complex and dynamic one. As media continues to evolve and expand, it is crucial that we engage in thoughtful and critical discussions about its impact on individuals, communities, and society as a whole.

In this section, we present 50 argumentative writing topics related to media. These topics cover a wide range of issues, from the role of media in shaping public opinion and political discourse to the ethical implications of media ownership and control. Some of these topics may be familiar to you, while others may introduce new ideas and perspectives.

As you explore these topics, you will have the opportunity to consider the ways in which media intersects with other fields, such as politics, culture, and technology. You will be challenged to think critically about the various stakeholders involved in media, including journalists, advertisers, policymakers, and consumers, and to consider the complex trade-offs and decisions that must be made in order to promote a healthy and vibrant media ecosystem.

Whether you are a media studies student, a concerned citizen, or simply someone who recognizes the power and influence of media in our lives, these argumentative writing topics will provide a platform for you to engage in meaningful dialogue and debate. By researching and writing about these issues, you can develop a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the media landscape, and contribute to the ongoing conversation about how we can build a more informed, engaged, and empowered society. So, let’s dive in and explore the fascinating and consequential world of media through the lens of argumentative writing.

Here are 50 argumentative writing topics related to media:

• Should there be stricter regulations on fake news and misinformation?
• Is the current model of online advertising ethical?
• Should social media platforms be held responsible for user-generated content?
• Is media bias a threat to democracy?
• Should there be more diversity and representation in media?
• Is the current system of media ownership too concentrated?
• Should the government fund public media?
• Is the rise of citizen journalism a positive development?
• Should there be stricter age restrictions on access to certain types of media?
• Is product placement in media ethical?
• Should media companies be held accountable for their environmental impact?
• Is the current model of media literacy education effective?
• Should there be stricter regulations on influencer marketing?
• Is the use of algorithms in media recommendation systems problematic?
• Should there be more transparency in how media companies use user data?
• Is the current system of content moderation on social media platforms fair?
• Should media companies be required to invest in local journalism?
• Is the use of clickbait headlines ethical?
• Should there be stricter regulations on violent content in media?
• Is the current model of media fact-checking effective?
• Should social media platforms be broken up to promote competition?
• Is the use of AI in media creation and distribution ethical?
• Should there be stricter regulations on media mergers and acquisitions?
• Is the current system of media ratings and reviews fair?
• Should media companies be required to disclose their political affiliations?
• Is the use of user-generated content in news media ethical?
• Should there be stricter regulations on sponsored content in media?
• Is the current model of media subscription services sustainable?
• Should there be more government funding for media literacy research?
• Is the use of bots and fake accounts on social media a threat to democracy?
• Should there be stricter regulations on hate speech in media?
• Is the current system of media accessibility for people with disabilities effective?
• Should social media companies be required to share data with researchers?
• Is the use of virtual and augmented reality in media ethical?
• Should there be stricter regulations on gambling and gaming content in media?
• Is the current model of media unions effective?
• Should media companies be required to have more diverse executive leadership?
• Is the use of paywalls in online journalism fair?
• Should there be stricter regulations on native advertising in media?
• Is the current system of media censorship in some countries justified?
• Should there be more funding for independent media outlets?
• Is the use of data journalism ethical?
• Should social media companies be required to verify user identities?
• Is the current model of media self-regulation effective?
• Should there be stricter regulations on product placement in children’s media?
• Is the use of deepfakes in media a threat to truth and accuracy?
• Should media companies be required to invest in fact-checking and verification?
• Is the current system of media ethics and accountability effective?
• Should there be more collaboration between media companies and academia?

These topics cover a wide range of issues related to media, including ethics, regulation, diversity, technology, and business models. They are designed to encourage critical thinking and analysis of current policies and practices in the media industry.

The arts are a fundamental aspect of human culture and creativity, encompassing a wide range of forms and expressions, from painting and sculpture to music, dance, and literature. Throughout history, the arts have served as a powerful means of communication, self-expression, and social commentary, reflecting the values, beliefs, and experiences of individuals and communities across time and space. However, the role and value of the arts in society is often a topic of debate, with questions arising about funding, censorship, and the relationship between art and politics.

In this section, we present 50 argumentative writing topics related to the arts. These topics cover a wide range of issues, from the impact of technology on artistic production and distribution to the role of the arts in education and social justice movements. Some of these topics may be familiar to you, while others may introduce new ideas and perspectives.

As you explore these topics, you will have the opportunity to consider the ways in which the arts intersect with other fields, such as philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. You will be challenged to think critically about the various stakeholders involved in the arts, including artists, audiences, curators, and funders, and to consider the complex dynamics and power relations that shape the art world.

Whether you are an artist, an art enthusiast, or simply someone who recognizes the transformative power of creative expression, these argumentative writing topics will provide a platform for you to engage in meaningful dialogue and debate. By researching and writing about these issues, you can develop a deeper appreciation for the richness and diversity of the arts, and contribute to the ongoing conversation about the role and value of the arts in our lives and communities. So, let’s dive in and explore the fascinating and multifaceted world of the arts through the lens of argumentative writing

Here are 50 argumentative writing topics related to the arts:

• Should public funding for the arts be increased or decreased?
• Is graffiti art or vandalism?
• Should art be censored?
• Is modern art really art?
• Should museums be free to the public?
• Is the art market too focused on profit?
• Should artists be held accountable for the messages in their work?
• Is the current copyright system stifling creativity?
• Should the arts be a required subject in schools?
• Is the art world elitist?
• Should cultural appropriation in art be condemned or celebrated?
• Is the rise of digital art a positive development?
• Should the government have a say in what public art is commissioned?
• Is the current model of arts education effective?
• Should there be more diversity in the arts world?
• Is the use of shock value in art justified?
• Should artists be held to higher moral standards than the general public?
• Is the art market a bubble waiting to burst?
• Should there be stricter regulations on the sale of stolen or looted art?
• Is the current system of arts criticism fair and unbiased?
• Should there be more collaboration between the arts and sciences?
• Is the use of AI in art creation a threat to human creativity?
• Should public art be more representative of the communities it serves?
• Is the current model of arts philanthropy sustainable?
• Should there be more government funding for arts research?
• Is the use of live animals in art ethical?
• Should there be stricter regulations on the use of hazardous materials in art?
• Is the art world too focused on western canon?
• Should there be more recognition for folk and indigenous art forms?
• Is the current system of art prizes and awards effective?
• Should there be more transparency in the art market?
• Is the use of appropriation in art a form of theft?
• Should there be stricter regulations on the importation and exportation of art?
• Is the art world too focused on youth and novelty?
• Should there be more support for older and established artists?
• Is the current model of artist residencies effective?
• Should there be more collaboration between the arts and technology sectors?
• Is the use of digital manipulation in photography art or cheating?
• Should there be stricter regulations on the use of unpaid labor in the arts?
• Is the art world too focused on New York and London?
• Should there be more support for regional and local arts scenes?
• Is the current system of arts insurance effective?
• Should there be more government funding for the preservation of cultural heritage?
• Is the use of political propaganda in art justified?
• Should there be stricter regulations on the use of human remains in art?
• Is the art world too focused on solo geniuses?
• Should there be more recognition for collaborative and participatory art forms?
• Is the current model of arts journalism sustainable?
• Should there be more support for artists with disabilities?
• Is the art world doing enough to address issues of social justice and inequality?

In conclusion, this comprehensive list of 500 argumentative essay topics covers a wide range of subjects, from science and technology to politics, media, and the arts. Each section provides a rich array of ideas and perspectives to explore, challenging readers to think critically about some of the most pressing issues of our time.

Whether you are a student looking for inspiration for your next essay, or simply someone who enjoys engaging with big ideas and challenging questions, this list has something for everyone. From the ethical implications of genetic engineering to the impact of social media on mental health, from the role of the arts in social justice movements to the future of space exploration, these topics invite us to grapple with the complexities and contradictions of the world we live in.

Of course, the goal of this list is not to provide definitive answers or opinions on any of these topics. Rather, it is to encourage readers to engage in their own process of research, analysis, and argumentation, drawing on evidence and examples to support their views while also considering counterarguments and alternative perspectives. By doing so, we can deepen our understanding of the issues at stake and develop our skills as critical thinkers and effective communicators.

Ultimately, the value of argumentative writing lies not just in the conclusions we reach, but in the process of inquiry and reflection that leads us there. By engaging with these topics in a thoughtful and sustained way, we can cultivate a greater sense of curiosity, empathy, and intellectual humility, recognizing the limitations of our own knowledge and the value of learning from others.

So whether you are writing an essay for a class, participating in a debate with friends, or simply reflecting on these issues in your own mind, we hope that this list of argumentative essay topics has provided you with a starting point for further exploration and discovery. The world is a complex and fascinating place, full of ideas and arguments waiting to be explored – so let’s get started!

Related Posts:

About Richard

Richard Everywriter (pen name) has worked for literary magazines and literary websites for the last 25 years. He holds degrees in Writing, Journalism, Technology and Education. Richard has headed many writing workshops and courses, and he has taught writing and literature for the last 20 years.  

In writing and publishing he has worked with independent, small, medium and large publishers for years connecting publishers to authors. He has also worked as a journalist and editor in both magazine, newspaper and trade publications as well as in the medical publishing industry.   Follow him on Twitter, and check out our Submissions page .

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Privacy Overview

• Essay Samples
• College Essay
• Writing Tools
• Writing guide

↑ Return to Writing guide

Top 50 Argumentative Essay Topics

Some students misconstrue that an argumentative essay needs to be inflammatory to be provocative. This is not necessarily so. The premise of an argumentative essay is to use logic and reasoning to establish a position on the subject in hand. This is done through investigation, collection and evaluation of evidence and formulation of a conclusion, with the ideas and results presented in a concise manner. The amount of the investigation and evaluation of evidence depends on the complexity of the subject and how many different sides of the argument there are, but doing things superficially will not result in an argumentative essay with substance.

• Race is a US issue that has never gone away
• Culture and society: does culture matter?
• The tyranny of cultural and societal customs
• How significant is global warming – truly?
• All that glisters is not gold, but some is
• The impact of advertising
• The dignity of labor
• The evils of half-knowledge
• The evils of poverty
• The green revolution
• Child abuse breeds child abuse
• The place of literature in education
• The problem of industrialism
• The problem of national integration
• The problem of over-population
• The advantages of desktop computers over laptops
• Is assisted suicide actually murder?
• Airport security checks have gone too far
• For and against Instagram
• Security cameras are an infringment of personal privacy
• Foodies are really just food snobs
• The culture of celebrity worship is illogical
• Humanity is alone in the universe
• Genetically modified food should be used to tackle hunger
• You eat too much fast food
• All high school students should take parenting classes
• Should childhood immunization be mandatory?
• Public transportation should be free
• Fracking is an environmental blight
• If marijuana has medical benefits shouldn’t it be legalized?
• Does free speech simply mean hate speech is ok?
• Are pre-employment drug tests an infringement of personal privacy rights?
• There should be no commercial breaks during children’s programs
• Jane Austen is more influential than Kim Kardashian
• The Catcher in the Rye is overrated as a literary work
• Crying is not a sign of weakness in a man
• The internet has killed verbal communication
• Conflict is healthy in a relationship
• Fraternities and sororoties have no use outside of college
• Students can boost their employability with extra-curricular activities
• Brainstorming in a corporate setting is a waste of energy
• Governments should not bail out bankrupt businesses
• PIPA and SOPA are ineffectual against online piracy
• Social media is the cheapest and most effective advertising channel
• The concept of “Big Brother” truly exists
• Social media has changed the way we write and speak
• Food fads like gluten-free are more dangerous than good
• Innovation is making us lazy
• There is a case for Wikileaks as a force for good
• There is no truth to the saying “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks”

Follow Us on Social Media

Get more free essays

Send via email

Most useful resources for students:.

• Free Essays Download
• Writing Tools List
• Proofreading Services
• Universities Rating

Contributors Bio

Find more useful services for students

Free plagiarism check, professional editing, online tutoring, free grammar check.

70 Argumentative Essay Topics That Will Put Up a Good Fight

You’ve spent quite a bit of time in your English classes writing  argumentative essays . You’ve even gotten pretty good at writing on the topics your instructor assigns. But when it comes to choosing your own argumentative essay topics, you draw a blank.

It’s not that there aren’t any good topics to choose from. It’s that you start over-thinking it, wondering if each topic is too cliche, overdone, or just not good enough.

Chances are, all you need to do is relax and find a topic you’re passionate about and, of course, one that’s debatable.

Why Pick Debatable Argumentative Essay Topics?

The name of the essay says it all— argumentative . It would be a lot easier to write an essay on something that people generally agree on, certainly. But that’s not really the point of an argumentative essay.

It’s important to choose debatable argumentative essay topics. You need opposing points that you can counter with your own points.

The world isn’t black and white—there are a lot of gray areas. This is good because it means there are a lot of topics you can choose from.

Click To Tweet

I’ve listed 70 argumentative essay topics below, phrased as questions, to help get you started. I’ve separated the topics into five categories—legal, moral, social, media, and family. And I’ve even included a helpful link for each topic.

Feel free to use the topics for your own essay or as inspiration to create your own original topic.

14 Legal Argumentative Essay Topics

Argumentative essay topics about legal matters are a popular choice. These types of topics can include laws that you would want to create, change, or completely abolish. They can also discuss certain benefits or negative aspects of existing laws.

You don’t have to get super technical with legal argumentative essays. But you  do  need to do your research on what the current laws about your chosen topic actually say.

After all, you don’t want to suggest a changing a law that’s already been changed in the way you want.

• Should cigarettes and other  tobacco products be outlawed?
• Should  prostitution be legal?
• Do the benefits of  medical marijuana justify its legality?
• Is the  drinking age appropriate (should it be lower, higher, or stay the same)?
• Should  nuclear weapons be outlawed worldwide?
• Should the United States put more restrictions on  gun ownership and use ?
• At what age should girls have access to  birth control without the consent of their parents?
• Should cellphone use be banned while driving ?
• Does outlawing  controlled substances only create a larger black market?
• Should corporations be granted  personhood ?
• Should juveniles be sentenced to life in prison ?
• In what situations, if any, does a woman have a right to an  abortion ?
• Should restaurants be required to include calories on all menu items ?
• Should an added tax be placed on sugary drinks , such as sodas?

14 Moral Argumentative Essay Topics

Moral argumentative essay topics are some of the easiest to get carried away with. They can cover a variety of moral dilemmas, from animal testing to the death penalty .

These topics tend to be very debatable because people have different opinions—and justifications for those opinions—on what they think is right or wrong.

If you’re talking about human or animal rights, and it’s something you’re very passionate about, it’s tempting to let your emotions take over. While it’s good to be passionate in an argumentative essay, remember to keep your thoughts focused and organized.

It’s definitely worth your time to create an outline. It helps ensure you don’t stray off topic. If you need help crafting an outline, review these two resources:

• How to Create a Powerful Argumentative Essay Outline
• 7 Essay Outline Templates to Get Your Essay Going

• Is  animal testing necessary?
• Should consumers buy items from countries that endorse  child labor ?
• Do patients have a right to die ?
• Are nude photographs appropriate in museums that are open to the public?
• Should schools and businesses give more incentives for people to do  volunteer work ?
• Are atheists less  moral than theists?
• Does freedom of speech give people the right to use  hate speech ?
• Do people who commit heinous crimes deserve the  death penalty ?
• Do pre-employment  drug tests infringe on personal privacy rights?
• Should employees be able to have visible tattoos in the workplace ?
• Are cameras in public places an invasion of privacy?
• Should teens be allowed to have cosmetic surgery ?
• Should Dreamers  be allowed to stay in the United States?

14 Social Argumentative Essay Topics

Social argumentative essay topics tend to overlap with legal and moral topics. But argumentative topics deal more about how individuals act within society and what kinds of pressures society puts on individuals or groups of people.

This is a pretty broad category. There are a lot of topics to choose from and even more that you could create on your own. If you get stuck on which topic to write about, consider something that personally affects you or someone close to you.

This should make writing about that topic come more naturally. Just be sure to rely on facts and not on personal anecdotes. Such anecdotes are more appropriate to the  narrative essay realm.

Remember, even though you may be writing about something that affects you personally, the argument essay isn’t usually the place for first person point of view. Most argumentative research papers require you to use third person .

• Is there too much  pressure on teenagers to go to college?
• At what age should citizens be allowed to  vote in the United States?
• Should more rights be given to  immigrants ?
• Can heterosexual men and women truly be  friends with no hopes or expectations of anything more?
• In what case(s) could it be considered fair for a company to  not hire a candidate who smokes cigarettes ?
• Should the United States make English the  official national language ?
• Should women wear less-revealing clothing in order to curb men’s  catcalling ?
• Do prisoners deserve the  right to vote ?
• Should there be a legal  curfew for minors?
• Can  online dating replace meeting a person in real life?
• Does  social media create isolation ?
• Should  welfare recipients be required to submit to drug tests ?
• Should adoptive parents be given some form of maternity leave ?
• Can  video games be a useful learning tool?

14 Advertising and Media Argumentative Essay Topics

Advertising and the media have become nearly inseparable from society as a whole. Essays written on these topics can include various angles.

For instance, you could look at how media (television, news, movies, magazines, social media, etc.) affects society. But you could also look at what should be allowed to be seen or heard through media and advertisements.

Inspiration to create your own advertising or media argumentative essay topics isn’t hard to find. Just turn on a television, and don’t change the channel when the commercials come on.

Pay close attention to all things electronic. You’ll be sure to find something debatable about what you see.

• Should sex be allowed to be portrayed on prime time  television ?
• Where should networks draw the line for  violence on television ?
• Should news shows talk about  celebrities ?
• Do journalists have a duty to eliminate as much  bias as possible?
• Is it acceptable for companies to  advertise in schools?
• In what situations should  advertisements for alcohol and tobacco products be allowed?
• Should warnings and  side effects be made more clear in advertisements?
• Is  print advertising obsolete?
• Do TV shows and movies have the responsibility of being  more diverse ?
• Are  public service announcements effective?
• Do reality shows , such as Teen Mom , glorify teen pregnancy?
• Does the media create unrealistic expectations of relationships and marriage ?
• Does the media attempt to create hype to influence or scare the public?

14 Family Argumentative Essay Topics

Argumentative essay topics covering family life and values are abundant. That’s because every family is different. Rules in families vary on a case-by-case basis, contrary to laws that govern a state or nation.

Because each family is different, it’s hard to generalize in this type of essay.

However, there’s a ton of research on child development and psychology, marital psychology, and personal stories from parents and their children. You can get enough information to make an argument for any of the topics below (or for a topic of your own).

Not sure where to find sources? Check out 5 Best Sources to Help With Writing a Research Paper .

• At what age should  parents talk to their children about sex ?
• Do children deserve/need an  allowance ?
• Is it okay for parents to  monitor teens’ Internet use ?
• Should parents be able to  spank their children ?
• Is it acceptable for women to  breastfeed in public ?
• Should  parenting classes be compulsory?
• Should parents push their kids into  extracurricular activities , such as music or sports?
• Are  children’s rooms  really theirs, or do the rooms “belong” to parents’?
• Should  single people be able to adopt children as easily as couples?
• Which parenting style is most effective?
• Should parents pay children for  good grades ?
• How does helicopter parenting harm (or help) kids?
• At what age should children be allowed to have a cellphone ?

Final Thoughts on Choosing Argumentative Essay Topics

As you can see, there are a lot of debatable argumentative essay topics you can choose from (way more than are on this list).

For more ideas, read these posts:

• 20 Persuasive Essay Topics to Help You Get Started
• 15 Excellent Topics for Persuasive Essays
• 15 Good Persuasive Essay Topics to Start Your Essay Right

Need to narrow down a broad topic into something more manageable? Read  How to Narrow a Topic and Write a Focused Paper .

And if you’d like a few more argument essay tips, take a look these posts:

• How to Write a Winning Argument Essay
• Writing an Argumentative Essay Made Easy (Infographic)

Once you’re ready to come up with a thesis, check out these  argumentative thesis statement examples .

Not sure what a completed argument essay should look like? Read 2 Argumentative Essay Examples With a Fighting Chance .

When picking your topic, keep in mind that it’s much easier to write about something that you already have interest in. In fact, that’s true even if you don’t know a whole lot about it.  Researching the topic will allow you to learn more about what fascinates you.

And if you pick something you actually like , writing the essay will be more enjoyable.

If you’ve wrapped up your argument but think there may be a few holes in your logic, send your essay over to the  Kibin editors . They’ll help give you the winning edge in whatever you’re debating.

Psst... 98% of Kibin users report better grades! Get inspiration from over 500,000 example essays .

About the Author

Eden Meirow is a full-time copywriter and part-time freelance writer. Along with her BS in marketing from Florida State University and MA in museum studies from Johns Hopkins University, she has spent the past 7 years learning how best to reach and teach people using the power of words. When she's not working, she's constantly trying to expand her creativity through music, writing, art, and animation.

• argumentative essays
• topic ideas

Argumentative Essay Writing

Argumentative Essay Topics

Take Your Pick – 200+ Argumentative Essay Topics

20 min read

Published on: Jul 11, 2020

Last updated on: Jan 31, 2024

People also read

Argumentative Essay - A Complete Writing Guide

Learn How to Write an Argumentative Essay Outline

Best Argumentative Essay Examples for Your Help

Basic Types of Argument and How to Use Them?

Essential Tips and Examples for Writing an Engaging Argumentative Essay about Abortion

Crafting a Winning Argumentative Essay on Social Media

Craft a Winning Argumentative Essay about Mental Health

Strategies for Writing a Winning Argumentative Essay about Technology

Crafting an Unbeatable Argumentative Essay About Gun Control

Win the Debate - Writing An Effective Argumentative Essay About Sports

Make Your Case: A Guide to Writing an Argumentative Essay on Climate Change

Ready, Set, Argue: Craft a Convincing Argumentative Essay About Wearing Mask

Crafting a Powerful Argumentative Essay about Global Warming: A Step-by-Step Guide

Share this article

These days, students of all levels may come across the daunting task of writing an argumentative essay .

 It can leave you feeling overwhelmed, but we’ve got your back! 

Our comprehensive list contains over 200 ideas for argumentative topics. No matter what kind of issue you want to explore, from immigration to technology, it’s on here.

 With this extensive selection, there is almost definitely something that will spark your interest. 

Pick something out today and get started on your paper!

On This Page On This Page -->

Best Argumentative Essay Topics For Students

When it comes to choosing an argumentative essay topic, it’s important to select one that is interesting and relevant.

While you may think that any topic will do, considering the audience you are writing for can be beneficial. 

Think about topics that have a lot of room for debate and analysis. This will ensure that your paper is engaging and well-developed. 

Let's dive into our comprehensive list of topics!

Argumentative Essay Topics For Middle School

• Should students be required to wear uniforms in school? 
• Should schools offer fast food options in their cafeteria? 
• Is homework beneficial or detrimental to student learning? 
• Are video games a positive or negative influence on kids? 
• Should competitive sports be mandatory for all students? 
• Are standardized tests an accurate measure of student success? 
• Should students be allowed to use cell phones in the classroom?
• Is year-round school a better option for students? 
• Is cheating in school ever justified? 
• Should high schools offer more career guidance and job placement assistance?

Argumentative Essay Topics For Grade 6

• Should students be required to do community service in order to graduate? 
• Is recess an important part of the school day? 
• Are zoos necessary for animal conservation? 
• Are video games or movies more educational for kids? 
• Is it appropriate for children to watch horror films? 
• Are video games a good way to keep kids active? 
• Should students be allowed to have their own social media accounts? 
• Is it important for children to learn cursive handwriting in school? 
• Is learning a foreign language at a young age beneficial?  
• Are competition-based activities good for building teamwork skills?

Argumentative Essay Topics For 7th Graders

• Should parents be required to limit their children’s screen time? 
• Do school lunches provide enough nutrition for students? 
• Is using a computer in the classroom better than using textbooks? 
• Should physical education classes be mandatory in schools? 
• Should students be allowed to use their phones during class? 
• Is cheating ever justified in school assignments? 
• Are single-sex classrooms better for learning than co-ed ones? 
• Do children learn best through play or through instruction? 
• Should schools offer more career guidance and job placement assistance?

Argumentative Essay Topics For Grade 8

• Should students be allowed to use cell phones in the classroom? 
• Should schools offer more vocational courses for students? 
• Is standardized testing an accurate measure of student success? 
• Should elementary schools offer more technology classes? 
• Are year-round schools better for student learning? 
• Is online learning as effective as traditional methods of teaching? 
• Should teachers be allowed to assign homework over the weekend?

Argumentative Essay Topics For High School

• Should students be able to choose their own courses in high school? 
• Is the current system of education outdated and in need of reform? 
• Is cheating ever justified in exams or assignments? 
• Does standardized testing accurately measure student intelligence?  
• Is it necessary for high schoolers to learn a foreign language? 
• Should students be required to participate in physical education classes? 
• Is there too much emphasis on technology in classrooms today? 
• Should high schoolers have part-time jobs during their studies? 
• Is it important for schools to offer more career guidance and job placement assistance?  ?
• Should students participate in more outdoor games?

Argumentative Essay Topics For O Levels

• Should students be allowed to use cell phones in school? 
• Is standardized testing an effective measure of student success? 
• How can schools best prepare students for the job market? 
• Are universities doing enough to prepare students for the future? 
• Should physical education classes be mandatory in high school? 
• Should students be able to choose their own classes in college? 
• Are video games a problem for children these days?
• Do video games have a positive or negative influence on kids? 
• Should online classes be offered as an alternative to traditional schooling?  ?

Argumentative Essay Topics For College Students

• Are colleges doing enough to prepare students for the job market? 
• Should college athletes be paid for their performance? 
• Is standardized testing an accurate measure of student intelligence?  
• What is the best way to prevent cheating in university exams? 
• Is a college degree still necessary for success in today’s job market?  
• Should universities offer more vocational courses for students? 
• Are year-round classes beneficial or detrimental to student learning? 
• How can we best ensure that college graduates have the skills they need for success? 
• Should college admissions be based on test scores and grades alone?  ?

Argumentative Essay Topics For University Students

• Is the current system of higher education outdated and in need of reform? 
• Are online classes as effective as traditional ones for student learning?  
• Are admissions tests the right test to give admission to a student?
• Is it necessary for university students to learn a foreign language? 
• Should college admissions be based on test scores and grades alone?  
• How can universities best prepare students for the job market? 
• Does standardized testing accurately measure student intelligence?  ?

Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Teenagers

• Should teens be allowed to make their own decisions about their education? 
• Is it important for teenagers to learn a foreign language? 
• Does Social Media have a negative impact on teenage mental health? 
• Are online classes just as effective as traditional ones for student learning?  
• Is standardized testing an accurate measure of student intelligence? 
• Are teenagers more attracted to drugs than adults?
•  Is it beneficial for teenagers to have part-time jobs during their studies? 
• Should there be stricter laws in place to regulate the use of cell phones by teens? 
•  How can schools best prepare teenagers for the job market?  

Easy Argumentative Essay Topics 

• Should students be allowed to have cell phones in school?
• Is homework necessary for students to succeed academically?
• Should junk food be banned in schools?
• Are video games beneficial or harmful to children?
• Should school uniforms be mandatory for all students?
• Is it better to read books or use technology for learning?
• Should pets be allowed in all public places?
• Is it fair for kids to have an equal share of household chores?
• Should children be allowed to watch TV or use electronic devices before bedtime?
• Is it better to be an only child or have siblings?

Easy Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should the minimum wage be increased? 
• Do plastic bags have a negative environmental impact? 
• Is violence in video games and films responsible for violent behavior in children? 
• Is standardized testing an effective measure of student learning? 
• Should the voting age be lowered? 
• Should animals be used in scientific research? 
• Is it necessary to have a college degree in order to be successful in life? 
• Is social media responsible for a rise in mental health issues among teenagers?  ?

Unique Argumentative Essay Topics

• Are artificial intelligence and robotics a threat to human employment? 
• How can governments best address the global refugee crisis?  
• Should employers be required to provide flexible working hours for parents? 
• Is the current education system in need of reform to prepare students for the job market? 
• Should universities be held accountable for the success of their graduates? 
• How can technology best be utilized to improve the quality of education?  
• Should college admissions be based on test scores and grades alone? 
• Is the use of performance-enhancing drugs in sports a violation of ethical standards?  ?

Controversial Argumentative Essay Topics

• Is it ethical to use animals for scientific research? 
• Are student-athletes receiving fair compensation for their performance? 
• Should the death penalty be abolished in all countries?  
• Is the current immigration system in need of reform? 
• Do violent video games and films contribute to the rise in crime? 
• Should same-sex marriage be legalized in all countries? 
• Should abortion be made illegal in all countries?  ?

Interesting Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should the legal drinking age be lowered? 
• What are the benefits and drawbacks of homeschooling? 
• Does social media have a negative impact on teenage mental health? 
• Are school uniforms a necessary expense? 
• Is homeschooling better than a normal school?
• What measures should be taken to protect endangered species?  ?

Fun Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should the “Star Wars” prequel trilogy be considered canon? 
• Is it important for teenagers to learn how to play a musical instrument?  
• What are the beneficial effects of video games on teenage development? 
• Are there any benefits to watching television shows or movies in 3D? 
• Are superheroes a necessary element in modern-day films? 
• Should children be allowed to watch movies rated PG-13 and above? 
• Is it ethical for companies to produce products with an “end of life” plan built into them? 
• Can art influence society in a positive way? 
• Should parents be allowed to choose their child’s gender before birth? 
• Is the book always better than the movie adaptation? ?

Mental Health Argumentative Essay Topics

• What is the link between mental health and physical health? 
• Is there a stigma attached to mental illness? 
• How can we better support young people with mental health issues? 
• Does social media have an impact on our mental well-being? 
• Should all schools provide access to mental health professionals? 
• What measures should be taken to reduce the incidence of suicide among teens?  
• Are there any benefits to taking medication for mental health issues? 
• Should employers make accommodations for employees with mental illness? 
• Is it ethical to force someone into treatment for a mental health condition?  
• Should mental health be considered an important part of healthcare reform?

General Argumentative Essay Topics ?

• Should genetically modified crops be widely adopted in agriculture?
• Is it ethically justifiable to genetically modify humans for the purpose of treating terminal illnesses?
• Should the United States abolish the Electoral College in favor of a popular vote system?
• Is there a need for better support systems and reduced stigma around mental health in the workplace?
• Is taking a gap year after high school a beneficial choice for personal and academic growth?
• Is the death penalty a justifiable form of punishment or an act of barbarism?
• What should be the role of the United States in global politics: assertive superpower or impartial mediator?
• How do political parties impact and shape the democratic process in the United States?
• Should high school students have more opportunities for physical education beyond traditional gym classes?
• Is animal testing a necessary evil or an unjustified act of cruelty?

How to Choose a Good Argumentative Essay Topic?

Choosing a good argumentative essay topic can be challenging. It’s important to pick a topic that is both interesting and has two sides that can be argued on. 

Here are some tips to help you choose the best argumentative essay topic:

1. Choose a topic that interests you

This is the most important factor when selecting an argumentative essay topic. Pick a subject that is interesting to you and allows for debate or discussion. 

2. Consider both sides of the argument

There must be two opposing positions in any good argument. Make sure your topic allows for both sides to have a valid argument . 

3. Research the topic thoroughly

 Take the time to research and understand both sides of the issue before you begin writing your essay. This will help ensure that you are able to make an informed argument in your paper. 

4. Consider current events

 Argumentative essays can be based on any current issue or event, which makes them great topics for discussion. Select a topic that is currently relevant and will engage readers. 

5. Think critically

 Finally, make sure to approach the essay with an open mind. Consider both sides of the argument before making your own conclusion. This will help ensure that your argument is sound and well-supported.  Check out this video to learn more!

Follow these tips and you will be able to choose a good topic for your argumentative essay!

Tips for Writing a Compelling Argumentative Essay

Once you’ve selected a great argumentative essay topic, it’s time to start writing! Here are some tips for crafting a compelling argumentative essay: 

• Structure your paper properly

Make sure that your paper follows the standard structure of an essay and includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Check out the comprehensive blog on how to create a perfect persuasive essay outline !

• Use evidence and examples to support your argument

To make your essay more persuasive, be sure to provide facts, statistics, and research-based evidence that supports your opinion. 

• Be aware of counterarguments

 Anticipate the opposing viewpoints on your topic and develop a rebuttal for each one in advance. This will make your essay more convincing and will help you refute any counterarguments. 

• Use a clear writing style

 Your argumentative essay should be written in a formal yet engaging style. Avoid biased language and personal attacks, and focus on presenting the facts objectively. 

• Take a stance

Choose one side of the argument and make sure your essay expresses your opinion clearly. This will help ensure that you present a convincing argument in your paper. 

By following these tips, you can create an effective and compelling argumentative essay!

You now know how to write an argumentative essay, and there are plenty of topics to choose from. 

With over 200 examples of argumentative essay topics at your disposal, we’re sure you’ll find something that interests you. 

Struggling with your upcoming essay? Our online essay writing service  is here to rescue you!

Specializing in crafting high-quality argumentative essay writing , our team of expert writers is dedicated to delivering content that not only meets but exceeds your expectations. Whether it's a complex topic or a tight deadline, we've got you covered.

And for those who seek an even more streamlined solution, our advanced AI tool is the perfect choice. Our essay writer AI is designed to provide quick, efficient, and personalized essay writing assistance, adapting to your unique style and requirements. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i choose an argumentative essay topic.

When choosing an argumentative essay topic, it is important to select one that you are both knowledgeable and passionate about. Consider topics that you have studied in depth or can research easily. 

How should I structure my argumentative essay?

An argumentative essay typically follows the classic five-paragraph structure. 

It includes an introduction that introduces your topic and states your claim. Three body paragraphs that provide evidence and analysis to support your claim. Finally, a conclusion that summarizes your argument and emphasizes the importance of your evidence.

Cathy A. (Literature, Marketing)

For more than five years now, Cathy has been one of our most hardworking authors on the platform. With a Masters degree in mass communication, she knows the ins and outs of professional writing. Clients often leave her glowing reviews for being an amazing writer who takes her work very seriously.

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That’s our Job!

Keep reading

Legal & Policies

• Privacy Policy
• Cookies Policy
• Terms of Use
• Refunds & Cancellations
• Our Writers
• Success Stories
• Our Guarantees
• Affiliate Program
• Referral Program
• AI Essay Writer

Disclaimer: All client orders are completed by our team of highly qualified human writers. The essays and papers provided by us are not to be used for submission but rather as learning models only.

Have a language expert improve your writing

Run a free plagiarism check in 10 minutes, generate accurate citations for free.

• Knowledge Base
• How to write an argumentative essay | Examples & tips

How to Write an Argumentative Essay | Examples & Tips

Published on July 24, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

An argumentative essay expresses an extended argument for a particular thesis statement . The author takes a clearly defined stance on their subject and builds up an evidence-based case for it.

Instantly correct all language mistakes in your text

Upload your document to correct all your mistakes in minutes

Table of contents

When do you write an argumentative essay, approaches to argumentative essays, introducing your argument, the body: developing your argument, concluding your argument, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about argumentative essays.

You might be assigned an argumentative essay as a writing exercise in high school or in a composition class. The prompt will often ask you to argue for one of two positions, and may include terms like “argue” or “argument.” It will frequently take the form of a question.

The prompt may also be more open-ended in terms of the possible arguments you could make.

Argumentative writing at college level

At university, the vast majority of essays or papers you write will involve some form of argumentation. For example, both rhetorical analysis and literary analysis essays involve making arguments about texts.

In this context, you won’t necessarily be told to write an argumentative essay—but making an evidence-based argument is an essential goal of most academic writing, and this should be your default approach unless you’re told otherwise.

Examples of argumentative essay prompts

At a university level, all the prompts below imply an argumentative essay as the appropriate response.

Your research should lead you to develop a specific position on the topic. The essay then argues for that position and aims to convince the reader by presenting your evidence, evaluation and analysis.

• Don’t just list all the effects you can think of.
• Do develop a focused argument about the overall effect and why it matters, backed up by evidence from sources.
• Don’t just provide a selection of data on the measures’ effectiveness.
• Do build up your own argument about which kinds of measures have been most or least effective, and why.
• Don’t just analyze a random selection of doppelgänger characters.
• Do form an argument about specific texts, comparing and contrasting how they express their thematic concerns through doppelgänger characters.

Receive feedback on language, structure, and formatting

Professional editors proofread and edit your paper by focusing on:

• Academic style
• Vague sentences
• Style consistency

See an example

An argumentative essay should be objective in its approach; your arguments should rely on logic and evidence, not on exaggeration or appeals to emotion.

There are many possible approaches to argumentative essays, but there are two common models that can help you start outlining your arguments: The Toulmin model and the Rogerian model.

Toulmin arguments

The Toulmin model consists of four steps, which may be repeated as many times as necessary for the argument:

• Make a claim
• Provide the grounds (evidence) for the claim
• Explain the warrant (how the grounds support the claim)
• Discuss possible rebuttals to the claim, identifying the limits of the argument and showing that you have considered alternative perspectives

The Toulmin model is a common approach in academic essays. You don’t have to use these specific terms (grounds, warrants, rebuttals), but establishing a clear connection between your claims and the evidence supporting them is crucial in an argumentative essay.

Say you’re making an argument about the effectiveness of workplace anti-discrimination measures. You might:

• Claim that unconscious bias training does not have the desired results, and resources would be better spent on other approaches
• Cite data to support your claim
• Explain how the data indicates that the method is ineffective
• Anticipate objections to your claim based on other data, indicating whether these objections are valid, and if not, why not.

Rogerian arguments

The Rogerian model also consists of four steps you might repeat throughout your essay:

• Discuss what the opposing position gets right and why people might hold this position
• Highlight the problems with this position
• Present your own position , showing how it addresses these problems
• Suggest a possible compromise —what elements of your position would proponents of the opposing position benefit from adopting?

This model builds up a clear picture of both sides of an argument and seeks a compromise. It is particularly useful when people tend to disagree strongly on the issue discussed, allowing you to approach opposing arguments in good faith.

Say you want to argue that the internet has had a positive impact on education. You might:

• Acknowledge that students rely too much on websites like Wikipedia
• Argue that teachers view Wikipedia as more unreliable than it really is
• Suggest that Wikipedia’s system of citations can actually teach students about referencing
• Suggest critical engagement with Wikipedia as a possible assignment for teachers who are skeptical of its usefulness.

You don’t necessarily have to pick one of these models—you may even use elements of both in different parts of your essay—but it’s worth considering them if you struggle to structure your arguments.

Regardless of which approach you take, your essay should always be structured using an introduction , a body , and a conclusion .

Like other academic essays, an argumentative essay begins with an introduction . The introduction serves to capture the reader’s interest, provide background information, present your thesis statement , and (in longer essays) to summarize the structure of the body.

Hover over different parts of the example below to see how a typical introduction works.

The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education. The use of the internet in academic contexts is on the rise, and its role in learning is hotly debated. For many teachers who did not grow up with this technology, its effects seem alarming and potentially harmful. This concern, while understandable, is misguided. The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its critical benefits for students and educators—as a uniquely comprehensive and accessible information source; a means of exposure to and engagement with different perspectives; and a highly flexible learning environment.

The body of an argumentative essay is where you develop your arguments in detail. Here you’ll present evidence, analysis, and reasoning to convince the reader that your thesis statement is true.

In the standard five-paragraph format for short essays, the body takes up three of your five paragraphs. In longer essays, it will be more paragraphs, and might be divided into sections with headings.

Each paragraph covers its own topic, introduced with a topic sentence . Each of these topics must contribute to your overall argument; don’t include irrelevant information.

This example paragraph takes a Rogerian approach: It first acknowledges the merits of the opposing position and then highlights problems with that position.

Hover over different parts of the example to see how a body paragraph is constructed.

A common frustration for teachers is students’ use of Wikipedia as a source in their writing. Its prevalence among students is not exaggerated; a survey found that the vast majority of the students surveyed used Wikipedia (Head & Eisenberg, 2010). An article in The Guardian stresses a common objection to its use: “a reliance on Wikipedia can discourage students from engaging with genuine academic writing” (Coomer, 2013). Teachers are clearly not mistaken in viewing Wikipedia usage as ubiquitous among their students; but the claim that it discourages engagement with academic sources requires further investigation. This point is treated as self-evident by many teachers, but Wikipedia itself explicitly encourages students to look into other sources. Its articles often provide references to academic publications and include warning notes where citations are missing; the site’s own guidelines for research make clear that it should be used as a starting point, emphasizing that users should always “read the references and check whether they really do support what the article says” (“Wikipedia:Researching with Wikipedia,” 2020). Indeed, for many students, Wikipedia is their first encounter with the concepts of citation and referencing. The use of Wikipedia therefore has a positive side that merits deeper consideration than it often receives.

Here's why students love Scribbr's proofreading services

Discover proofreading & editing

An argumentative essay ends with a conclusion that summarizes and reflects on the arguments made in the body.

No new arguments or evidence appear here, but in longer essays you may discuss the strengths and weaknesses of your argument and suggest topics for future research. In all conclusions, you should stress the relevance and importance of your argument.

Hover over the following example to see the typical elements of a conclusion.

The internet has had a major positive impact on the world of education; occasional pitfalls aside, its value is evident in numerous applications. The future of teaching lies in the possibilities the internet opens up for communication, research, and interactivity. As the popularity of distance learning shows, students value the flexibility and accessibility offered by digital education, and educators should fully embrace these advantages. The internet’s dangers, real and imaginary, have been documented exhaustively by skeptics, but the internet is here to stay; it is time to focus seriously on its potential for good.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

• Ad hominem fallacy
• Post hoc fallacy
• Appeal to authority fallacy
• False cause fallacy
• Sunk cost fallacy

College essays

• Choosing Essay Topic
• Write a College Essay
• Write a Diversity Essay
• College Essay Format & Structure
• Comparing and Contrasting in an Essay

 (AI) Tools

• Grammar Checker
• Paraphrasing Tool
• Text Summarizer
• AI Detector
• Plagiarism Checker
• Citation Generator

An argumentative essay tends to be a longer essay involving independent research, and aims to make an original argument about a topic. Its thesis statement makes a contentious claim that must be supported in an objective, evidence-based way.

An expository essay also aims to be objective, but it doesn’t have to make an original argument. Rather, it aims to explain something (e.g., a process or idea) in a clear, concise way. Expository essays are often shorter assignments and rely less on research.

At college level, you must properly cite your sources in all essays , research papers , and other academic texts (except exams and in-class exercises).

Add a citation whenever you quote , paraphrase , or summarize information or ideas from a source. You should also give full source details in a bibliography or reference list at the end of your text.

The exact format of your citations depends on which citation style you are instructed to use. The most common styles are APA , MLA , and Chicago .

The majority of the essays written at university are some sort of argumentative essay . Unless otherwise specified, you can assume that the goal of any essay you’re asked to write is argumentative: To convince the reader of your position using evidence and reasoning.

In composition classes you might be given assignments that specifically test your ability to write an argumentative essay. Look out for prompts including instructions like “argue,” “assess,” or “discuss” to see if this is the goal.

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

Caulfield, J. (2023, July 23). How to Write an Argumentative Essay | Examples & Tips. Scribbr. Retrieved September 20, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/academic-essay/argumentative-essay/

Is this article helpful?

Jack Caulfield

Other students also liked, how to write a thesis statement | 4 steps & examples, how to write topic sentences | 4 steps, examples & purpose, how to write an expository essay, what is your plagiarism score.

• Translators
• Graphic Designers

Please enter the email address you used for your account. Your sign in information will be sent to your email address after it has been verified.

120 Compelling Topics for Your Next Argumentative Essay

Most people like to argue—whether they like to admit it or not. But when the time comes when it's actually appropriate to take a side and passionately defend it (say, an argumentative essay in your writing class), you might find it difficult to think of what to argue about and how to argue effectively. An effective argumentative essay will leave the reader questioning what they think about a topic, and maybe even change their minds.

Whatever kind of argument you choose to write about, always be sure to back up your claims with solid research and facts. Though you can definitely have an opinion in this essay, your argument will always be more credible when bolstered facts rather than relying simply on how you feel. When you find yourself getting stuck on what to write, take a look at these ideas for argumentative essays for some inspiration for your paper, or to expand on these ideas and create your own topic.

What makes a good essay topic?

Though you may know what format and style guide to use, you may be in the dark about what actually makes a good essay topic. While it may be easier to write an essay on something that is easy to agree on (like the fact that George Clooney is a very handsome man ), there's just really not a lot of interest in the topic because it is something everyone already knows to be true. What we're looking for in an argumentative essay topic is something that might expand people's minds and allow them to look at an issue in a new light. The idea isn't necessarily to convince them of your side (though of course that would be ideal!), but rather to get them to expand their mind just enough that they start to think about things from another perspective.

You'd be surprised at what years of social and cultural influences, education, and just plain stubbornness can do to make a person adamant that their side and opinion are right. Argumentative essay topics are so important because they are debatable—and it's crucial to always be critically thinking about the world around us. Why do we do things a certain way? Is it because it's right or is it because this is what we've always known? To constantly be questioning and arguing and thinking is really the true sign of learning. As we start to think about that idea, here are a few ideas to get you started on your own essay.

Education essay topics

Education is a topic that definitely affects each and every one of us. Education scholars are constantly evolving the way they think about how we learn and what is taught. So while these ten ideas are enough to get you started thinking about education and its role in society, the essay topics are really endless:

• How do you feel about the Common Core State Standards? Do you feel it hurts or helps K-12 students?
• Should we ban vending machines in schools? Consider the types of snacks and drinks found in vending machines.
• Should charter schools replace the public school system that we know now?
• Do you believe that the decades since Brown v. Board of education have actually brought about racial equality in education?
• How does the socioeconomic standing of a child's parents affect their education opportunities?
• Many policymakers are pushing STEM education. Why is this?
• How does gender affect education? Consider how different gendered students are treated by staff and what they are encouraged to pursue after school.
• Do traditional discipline methods really work on students? Consider the role of detention, suspension, and expulsion.
• Why do other countries measure ahead of the U.S. in education?
• Does homeschooling disadvantage students?
• Should teachers be allowed to discuss religion with their students?
• Should public schools be given the authority to ban certain books?
• Do you think school systems should offer courses in financial literacy and/or practical skills (e.g., the woodshop and Home Ec of old) to their students? If so, at what grade should students begin to learn these skills?
• Do you think high schools need to place a greater focus on preparing their students to choose a major/field of study in college? How would this inhibit/improve their college learning experience?
• How does the presence of a dress code in schools impact different students? Consider identity factors like biological sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, and religion.
• How can we make college more accessible to all interested students?
• Should passing standardized testing be a requirement to graduate from public high school? How does this requirement impact different groups of students?
• How can school systems implement or improve sexual education courses for their students? Should schools be required to offer these kinds of courses?
• Should students who participate on sports teams be required to complete physical education classes in school?
• What kinds of emergency training programs should teachers and students be required to complete to stay safe in school?

Parenting essay topics

Who raises us and how they do it can really have a huge effect on the culture and society as a whole. Nearly everyone has an opinion on how children should be raised, but which one is right? Is there a right answer? How do politics affect how we raise our children? These are the kinds of things you will be exploring when you write a parenting argumentative essay.

• Should men receive paternity leave?
• Why do we have obstacles in the United States for women to receive paid maternity leave?
• How can we get childcare costs down in the United States?
• What is the best parenting style?
• What are some lessons that American parents can learn from other cultures?
• How does successful and proactive parenting affect a child's literacy skills and learning potential?
• How do overprotective parents affect children's lives? Consider the different types of attachment this may lead to between parents and children.
• Should parents be allowed to spank their children? Consider the potential consequences or benefits, if there are any, of corporal punishment.
• Should there be more accommodations made to make safe breastfeeding in public easier and more accessible?
• How can children get additional support in a single-parent household?
• What are some of the positives and negatives of raising a child as gender-neutral? Is this style of parenting beneficial in raising an independent thinker?
• Should there be stricter requirements for prospective parents to adopt a child?
• Should there be incentives to having children in America? What can the U.S. learn from other countries that provide extra support to new parents?
• Do you think new parents should be required to take courses on topics like nursing, CPR/Heimlich Maneuver, and other classes that teach safety and nutrition?
• How involved should a parent be in their teenager's personal life?
• How does raising a child with extremely strict rules affect the parent/child relationship in the future?
• Does gentle parenting rear more inclusive and independent children?
• Should parents limit their children's screen time?
• At what age should parents introduce toys and activities geared towards child learning and growth?
• Should single parents be given extra assistance by the government to help raise their child?

Gender equality issues topics

Women have only had the right to vote in the United States since 1920. In just over 100 years of suffrage, women have certainly accomplished a lot when it comes to equality. However, according to many scholars and activists, there is still a long way to go. With a subject that's sure to ignite some passion, there are endless topics to write about, but here are a few that we suggest.

• Should abortion be legal?
• Should religious institutions be required to provide birth control methods for their female employees, even if it goes against their religion?
• Should emergency contraception (aka "the morning-after pill") be legal?
• Statistically, women do not make as much money doing the same work as their male counterparts. How do you feel about this and what can be done to change this inequality?
• Many say that legal sex work is a women's rights issue. Does it apply solely to women? Consider how sex workers are treated in America and why it is that people feel as though they need to turn to sex work.
• Should women have to register for the draft?
• What are the biggest challenges for women in the workplace?
• How long should maternity leave be?
• What are some of the biggest challenges for female politicians?
• Why do you think the Equal Rights Amendments (ERA) failed? Do you think one such law could ever pass in your lifetime?
• Who or what defines gender?
• How do gender stereotypes influence male and female professional athletes and the sports industry?
• What does it mean to be a feminist? Why is the concept of feminism so often greeted with negativity?
• How do the marketing and advertising industries influence the continuation of gender stereotypes?
• How are careers continually gendered? Consider what kinds of jobs are associated with females versus males.
• How does history's interpretation of parental roles influence modern conceptions of gender roles?
• Should both men and women receive paid parental leave?
• How can we increase conversations surrounding men's mental health? Consider how men may have been raised to be unemotional and not share their feelings.
• What can be done to change society's views on single mothers?
• What are some ways men and women can adopt a truly equal share of child-rearing practices and household chores to maintain household equality?

Legal essay topics

There are many things to argue when it comes to the law. Law is constantly evolving with the ever-changing culture at large. Because of this, many disagree on how the laws should change (if they should change at all) and there are many topics to choose from. Here are a few of our picks.

• Should there be a federal law that allows marijuana to be legal?
• Should a person have the right to choose when they die? Consider how other countries treat this subject compared to the U.S..
• At what age should you legally be allowed to drink?
• Would you support harsher punishments for athletes who use performance-enhancing drugs?
• Is it an infringement on religious rights to have business owners provide services for LGBTQ weddings if they don't agree with the marriage?
• Should religious institutions be allowed tax exemptions?
• Should the death penalty be banned in the U.S.?
• Should a felon be granted the right to vote after s/he has served his or her sentence?
• How do you feel about more restrictive gun laws and universal background checks?
• Should citizens who entered the country illegally be forced to leave? What about their children who were brought here?
• Should men be allowed to vote on policies that affect female bodies?
• Do stricter laws need to be passed to maintain the separation of church and state? Consider the role of religion in modern day politics.
• Do you think every state should have the same laws regarding the legal age for marriage?
• Is our jury system fair?
• How often should a new president be elected to office? Do you think we need to change our current rules?
• Should there be strict age restrictions and term limits on the people voted into office, including Congress members, judges, and presidents?
• Should teachers be required to carry guns?
• Do you think cigarettes and other tobacco products should be outlawed?
• What, if anything, does the presence of police in schools do for students?
• Should freedom of speech protect hate speech?

Technology essay topics

Our country and our world are extremely dependent on advanced technology. It has completely changed the way we work, think, and communicate with each other. Many people are huge fans of new gadgets and rapidly advancing technology, but others are more wary of it. There are always a wide range of opinions on the subject of technology, and here are our favorite things to think about on the topic.

• Is an increased dependence on technology making us less intelligent?
• How do devices like smartphones and tablets affect growth and development in children?
• Do you think technology has decreased or increased our communication with each other? Consider the speed at which news is spread and what kinds of news is spread.
• Is print media dead?
• Do the comment sections on social media and news sites actually promote good discourse?
• Technology has made a lot of manual labor obsolete. How do you feel about this?
• What should blue-collar workers do when their job has replaced them with better technology? How should policymakers respond?
• Has online dating affected traditional ideas about romance and marriage?
• Do you believe that the government should enforce net neutrality principles on internet service providers?
• In what ways, if any, is technology making us more dependent?
• What are the potential benefits and consequences of introducing technology, such as smartphones and laptops, in the classroom?
• Should restrictions on technology be put into place to limit the number of jobs technological devices can replace?
• Does technology aid in the spread of false information and/or a rise in panic about current events?
• Do you think there should be stricter parameters to monitor what kind of technological advances are made? Consider the ethics behind particular technological advancements that influence the scientific manipulation of nature like genetic mutation, cloning, and other procedures.
• Social media apps have age limits, yet they are easy to bypass. How can we make social media age restrictions stricter to protect today's youth?
• Should laptops be provided to college students? Consider how a student's background affects their ability to purchase their own device.
• Should smartphones and social media apps be allowed to ban certain words in messaging/comments? What are some potential benefits/consequences of banning particular words or phrases?
• Do you think there should be restrictions on the presence of advertisements in technology? Consider how often you come across ads in social media apps or during a Google search.
• Should everyone have unrestricted access to the Internet?
• Are technology companies taking advantage of the consumer market by constantly introducing new and improved products? Are these products necessary, or are they just quick money grabs?

Society and culture essay topics

There are always things we wish would change about the society that we live in. Nothing is ever perfect, but we all still strive to make where we live to be the best it can be. The problem is that everyone's interpretation of what makes a good society is different. Some people live their lives according to their religion while others don't think you should factor that into decision making when it comes to determining rules for everyone.

• How does cultural discourse surrounding sex and sexuality impact youth in their pursuit of romantic attraction and relationships?
• Do you think that affirmative action is still necessary?
• Is there too much pressure placed on today's youth to take on and solve decades-long societal and cultural issues they did not create?
• Should you be forced to say the Pledge of Allegiance at school?
• Should it be illegal to burn the American flag?
• Do you think peaceful protest is possible, or is it inevitable that protests will become violent?
• Do you think collegiate athletes should be paid?
• Can the perpetrators of sex crimes be rehabilitated?
• Do you think the Electoral College should be abolished?
• Should the United States have one official language?
• How do social institutions – economic, political, religious, etc. – determine who is and who is not successful?
• How do cultural expectations – beauty, parental, economic – affect mental health? Should there be more conversations surrounding mental health?
• Do you think it would be possible for our prison system to move away from incarceration and towards rehabilitation?
• How do our social institutions influence our country's incarceration rate? Why does the U.S. have the highest incarceration rate?
• Is there systematic racism within the U.S. judicial system?
• How does someone's socioeconomic background influence their ability to attend higher education and get a job?
• Should the United States implement universal health care?
• Do you think anything can be done to deconstruct culturally accepted gender roles? Consider how peoples' background – family and education – influence their interactions with gender roles.
• Should there be stricter regulations on social media apps? How would this influence popular culture's influence on adolescents?
• Do you think society needs to do a better job of encouraging people to embrace their culture and be unique instead of pushing them to fit a cultural expectation and norm?

Portray your passion

When it comes to writing an argumentative essay, the most important thing to do is to choose a topic and an argument that you can really get behind. Not only will this make the writing a whole lot better, but it will also keep you more focused when you are researching and writing. Though it's unlikely you're going to feel a fiery passion about every subject you write on, pick the topic and side that best suits you. No reader wants to read a lukewarm argumentative piece. The reader wants to be persuaded and provoked. This won't happen if it appears you are uninterested in what you're writing about.

If you've read through this list and you still haven't found a topic that covers what you are interested in, be sure to ask your instructor or a librarian for help with researching and writing an argumentative essay. Similarly, if you have written an essay and you're not sure that it's going in the right direction, seek out the guidance of classmates or other writers, or get help from a professional editor.

Header photo by Ming Jun Tan .

Addressing Depression: a Persuasive Argument

How it works

• 1 Introduction
• 2 The Big Impact of Depression
• 3 Fighting the Stigma Around Mental Health
• 4 Making Treatment Accessible and Effective
• 5 Conclusion

Introduction

Depression is a tough and common mental health problem that a lot of people deal with around the world. Even though we know more about mental health today, there’s still a lot of stigma around depression, making it hard for people to get the help they need. This essay wants to show why it’s important to take depression seriously. We’ll talk about three main points: how depression affects people and society, why we need to stop the stigma around mental health, and the need for easy-to-get and good treatment options.

By looking at these points, we can see that we need to work together to fight depression and help those who are struggling.

The Big Impact of Depression

Depression isn’t just feeling sad for a little while; it’s a serious mental health issue that affects many people and society as a whole. The World Health Organization says that over 264 million people worldwide are dealing with depression, making it a top cause of disability. People with depression often feel really down, lose interest in things they used to enjoy, and feel worthless, which makes daily life tough. This can lead to less productivity, hard times in relationships, and sometimes even thoughts of suicide. Economically, depression costs a lot in lost work and healthcare, adding up to billions of dollars each year. These numbers show why we need to find better ways to help people with depression and support them in their daily lives.

Fighting the Stigma Around Mental Health

A big problem in dealing with depression is the stigma that comes with mental health issues. Stigma shows up in different ways, like social discrimination, self-judgment, and barriers to getting care. People with depression often face misunderstanding and judgment from others, which makes them feel ashamed and stops them from seeking help. This cycle of not getting help can make depression worse over time. To stop this, we need to build a culture that accepts and understands mental health issues. Public awareness campaigns, education, and open talks about mental health can help reduce stigma. By promoting empathy and busting myths about depression, we can create a more supportive environment where people feel safe to get help.

Making Treatment Accessible and Effective

Understanding the impact of depression and reducing stigma are important, but we also need to make sure people can get good treatment. Treatments for depression include therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. But obstacles like high costs, not enough mental health professionals, and lack of knowledge about treatment options stop people from getting the help they need. To fix this, we need to invest in mental health services and make treatments affordable and easy to access. This can be done by funding mental health programs, integrating mental health care into regular healthcare, and using technology like teletherapy and mental health apps. By making sure good treatment is available, we can reduce the impact of depression.

To wrap up, dealing with depression is a complex issue that needs a thorough approach, including raising awareness, reducing stigma, and making treatment accessible. The huge impact of depression on people and society shows how urgent this issue is. By creating a culture of acceptance and understanding, we can cut down on the stigma and encourage people to seek help. Investing in mental health services and making treatments easy to get are also key steps. Policymakers, healthcare providers, and everyone else need to work together to fight depression and support those affected. Only by working together can we make mental health a priority and ensure that people with depression get the care and support they need.

Cite this page

Addressing Depression: A Persuasive Argument. (2024, Sep 17). Retrieved from https://papersowl.com/examples/addressing-depression-a-persuasive-argument/

"Addressing Depression: A Persuasive Argument." PapersOwl.com , 17 Sep 2024, https://papersowl.com/examples/addressing-depression-a-persuasive-argument/

PapersOwl.com. (2024). Addressing Depression: A Persuasive Argument . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/addressing-depression-a-persuasive-argument/ [Accessed: 22 Sep. 2024]

"Addressing Depression: A Persuasive Argument." PapersOwl.com, Sep 17, 2024. Accessed September 22, 2024. https://papersowl.com/examples/addressing-depression-a-persuasive-argument/

"Addressing Depression: A Persuasive Argument," PapersOwl.com , 17-Sep-2024. [Online]. Available: https://papersowl.com/examples/addressing-depression-a-persuasive-argument/. [Accessed: 22-Sep-2024]

PapersOwl.com. (2024). Addressing Depression: A Persuasive Argument . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/addressing-depression-a-persuasive-argument/ [Accessed: 22-Sep-2024]

Don't let plagiarism ruin your grade

Hire a writer to get a unique paper crafted to your needs.

Our writers will help you fix any mistakes and get an A+!

Please check your inbox.

You can order an original essay written according to your instructions.

Trusted by over 1 million students worldwide

1. Tell Us Your Requirements

2. Pick your perfect writer

3. Get Your Paper and Pay

Hi! I'm Amy, your personal assistant!

Don't know where to start? Give me your paper requirements and I connect you to an academic expert.

short deadlines

100% Plagiarism-Free

Certified writers