400 argumentative essay topics

114 Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Students in 2023

April 25, 2023

The skill of writing an excellent argumentative essay is a crucial one for every high school or college student to master. 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 this essay is to sway the reader to the writer’s position. A strong persuasive essay makes its point through diligent research, evidence, and logical reasoning skills.

Argumentative Essay Format

A strong argumentative essay will be based on facts, not feelings. Each of these facts 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, paragraphs addressing common counterarguments, and conclusion.

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. 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.

For more tips and tricks on formatting an argumentative essay, check out this useful guide from Khan Academy.

How to Write an Effective Argumentative Essay, Step by Step

• Choose your topic. Use the list below to help you pick a topic. Ideally, the topic you choose will be meaningful to you.
• Once you’ve selected your topic, it’s time to sit down and get to work! 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. Remember to look for possible counterarguments.
• Outline . Using the argumentative essay format above, create an outline for your essay. Brainstorm a thesis statement covering your argument’s main points, and begin to put together the pieces of the essay, focusing on logical flow.
• Write . Draw on your research and outline to create a solid first draft. Remember, your first draft doesn’t need to be perfect. (As Voltaire says, “Perfect is the enemy of good.”) For now, focus on getting the words down on paper.
• Edit . Be your own critical eye. Read what you’ve written back to yourself. Does it make sense? Where can you improve? What can you cut?

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 cellphones 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?

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?
• 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 comprehensive 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 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?

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.?

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?

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?

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 .)

Science Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should the world eliminate nuclear weapons?
• Should scientists bring back extinct animals?
• Should we hold companies fiscally responsible for their carbon footprint?
• Should we ban pesticides in favor of organic farming methods?
• Is it ethical to clone animals for scientific purposes?
• 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?
• Would the world be safe if we got rid of all nuclear weapons?
• Should we worry about artificial intelligence surpassing human intelligence?

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?

Technology Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should sites like DALL-E compensate the artists whose work it was trained on?
• Is social media harmful to children?
• 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?
• Should we consider A.I.-generated images and text pieces of art?
• Does the use of facial recognition technology violate individuals’ privacy?

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?
• 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?

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? Also check out our 85 Good Debate Topics for High School Students .

• High School Success

Lauren Green

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

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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 take a position on 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.

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 that 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 to get across? Did the topic give you something new to think about? Can you see why someone else may feel differently?

50 Possible 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, which are, hopefully, backed up by facts.   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 our election process fair?
• Is torture ever acceptable?
• Should men get paternity leave from work?
• Are school uniforms beneficial?
• Do we 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)?
• Is it good that same-sex couples are able to marry?
• 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?
• Are girls too mean to each other?
• 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?
• Preparing an Argument Essay: Exploring Both Sides of an Issue
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• Tips on How to Write an Argumentative Essay
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Argumentative Essay Guide

Argumentative Essay Topics

Last updated on: Dec 19, 2023

Argumentative Essay Topics - Compelling Ideas to Get Started

By: Jared P.

18 min read

Reviewed By: Melisa C.

Published on: Oct 22, 2019

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

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

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

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

So read on and make choosing a topic easier!

On this Page

Argumentative Essay Topics for students

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

Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle School

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

Argumentative Essay Topics for Grade 6 

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

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

Argumentative Essay Topics for 7th Graders 

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

Argumentative Essay Topics for Grade 8

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

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

Argumentative Essay Topics for High School

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

Argumentative Essay Topics for College Students

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

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?

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Argumentative Essay Topics 2022

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

Argumentative Essay Topics 2023

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

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

Choosing a Good Argumentative Essay Topic

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

But what are you going to write about?

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

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

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

What Makes a Good Argumentative Essay?

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

Strong Introduction and Thesis 

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

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

Good Research and Evidence 

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

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

Organized Structure 

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

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

Effective Conclusion 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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!

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.

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• 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.

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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.

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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.

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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!

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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.

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130 Argumentative Essay Topics: Tips on How Choose the Best One

Defining What Is an Argumentative Essay

Imagine the following scenario: You just got into an argument with your friend over climate change. You said that this is an actual issue that poses significant threats to our environment and world population. Your friend, on the other hand, argued that climate change is not real, saying that it's a natural occurrence that has happened several times during world history. You got home, had time to reflect on the debate, and came up with several good reasons for your position. Oh! The things you could have said to clearly express and defend your stance... Now you're annoyed with the constant monologue running through your mind, reflecting upon the previous debate.

What if you documented the arguments that came to you afterward? Much like jotting them down on a piece of paper and giving some direction to your ideas. We say it would have made a brilliant work with fresh ideas and fiery passion.

That's exactly why you should practice argumentative essay writing. It will enhance your reasoning skills while allowing you to become more quick-witted. By doing this, you won't have to listen to your friends defending their stance while you lack your own arguments to contribute to the debate.

To persuade the reader of their position in an argumentative essay, the author must choose a position on a certain subject or problem and provide evidence to support it. This kind of essay is frequently required in high school or college classes to sharpen students' analytical abilities and motivate them to engage in challenging discussions.

So, let's take on a mission of fully understanding how to write an argumentative essay with a clear structure and endless topic ideas. We promise that after reading this article, you'll become an unshakable debater!

Three Common Argumentative Essay Models

First, let's start with the three most prevalent models of argumentative writing. Knowing this will guide you toward structuring your essay in your preferred style. The options are:

• Toulmin model - Most commonly used model out of the three, the Toulmin model starts with an introduction, moves on to a thesis or claim, and then provides information and proof to back up that argument. This type of essay usually includes rebuttals of opposing points. This approach performs effectively when there is no undeniable truth or perfect answer to an issue.
• Rogerian model - Created by Carl R. Rogers, the Rogerian model of argument assesses a debate and offers a compromise between opposing sides. This paradigm emphasizes cooperation and teamwork. It recognizes that an argument can be seen from a variety of angles. The Rogerian model starts with an introduction, moves to acknowledge opposing views, then states the author's main claims. Before the conclusion, it tries to provide a middle ground by carefully considering all sides of the argument.
• Classical (Aristotelian) model- In the traditional paradigm, all sides of an argument are examined, and the side with the most convincing evidence is shown to be correct. This approach effectively convinces a listener to take a side in an argument by combining Ethos, Pathos, and Logos.

Proper Argumentative Essay Outline

This is not something new that you should be scared of - an essay outline that consists of classic five paragraphs and employs a sacred triangle of introduction, body, and conclusion. But still, in an argumentative essay outline, you should find something unique to this kind of paper. Let's examine these specifics more closely below with the help of our argumentative essay writing service :

Introduction

Your first task while writing argumentative essays is to grab the reader's attention with an eye-catching fact, story, or quotation that will work as a hook. Then continue by giving background information and outlining the problem at hand while clearly articulating your case and your point of argument.

• Background information
• Thesis statement

I. Introduction

The argumentative essay introduction should grab the reader's attention and provide background information. The introductory paragraph should also include a thesis statement, the main argument the essay will present, and support. For example:

• Hook : Did you know that over 50% of Americans believe in aliens?
• Background: UFO sightings and conspiracy theories have been around for decades.
• Thesis: Despite the lack of concrete evidence, extraterrestrial life is a real possibility that should be explored further.

Body Paragraphs

The body section is where you confidently roll up your sleeves and give direction to your discussion. In the first paragraph, give your best argument in favor of your thesis, using examples, data, or expert opinions. Then, evaluate the data and describe how it backs up your claim. Remember to confront and disprove any potential opposing viewpoints. You might use the same strategy in the second body paragraph for a different argument supporting your thesis.

Consider the opposing position and offer arguments in the third and fourth paragraphs. Lastly, dispute the counterargument and explain why your argument is more powerful.

• First supporting point
• Explanation
• Counterargument
• Second supporting point

To wrap up, restate your major idea and summarize your supporting points. Explain why your point is important and what it means for the reader. To end on a strong note, encourage the reader to act or think more deeply about the subject.

• Restate thesis
• Significance
• Call to action

Tips for Choosing Argumentative Essay Topics

Making a captivating and thought-provoking argumentative essay requires picking a strong topic. Here are six genuine suggestions to assist you through the process:

• Keep your audience in mind - Consider the audience for your essay, and attempt to guess what they would think about the topic you wish to cover. Think about if your audience would find it fascinating.
• Take a risk - Pick a highly debatable subject you think others would want to steer clear of. It will distinguish your topic from other ordinary argumentative essay topics. Make sure you can, however, present the reasoning for all sides of the controversy.
• Consider your surroundings - Consider things that are either negative aspects or taboos in your environment. Dare to discuss and debate such problems.
• Select an arguable topic - To avoid writing a dissertation; your topic should be in the middle of being both wide and narrow. Establish your paper's objectives. What point of view or hypothesis are you trying to support? Before you start writing, make an effort to clearly state your aim. If you cannot explain your goal effectively, try to free-write on your subject.
• Provide logical and persuasive evidence - Ensure that your proof is appropriately documented. Be certain to introduce and explain the relevance of the evidence you use in an easy-to-understand way. Avoid assuming that your evidence will speak for itself and that your readers will draw the conclusions you want from it. Describe the significance of each piece of evidence, how it clarifies or supports your claim, and why it is relevant. Include evidence in your work and use it wisely to support your arguments.
• Draft your essay - Make sure you include a lot of supporting material presented clearly and fairly, address the opposing viewpoint, and pay close attention to how your essay is organized. Ensure your argumentative essay structure is appropriate for your issue and audience, address and rectify any logical errors, and use appropriate transitions to make it easier for the reader to understand your argument.

Meanwhile, if you'd rather have a PRO craft your paper, you can always buy argumentative essay on our platform.

Examples of Argumentative Essay Topics

Choosing the proper topic for your argumentative essay might be a major difficulty. You should always ensure that your chosen topic is interesting and worthwhile. Your school may occasionally provide you with a selection of subjects, but sometimes you may struggle to choose the topic.

Consider your struggle to be over in the following sections; our persuasive essay writing service will help you find the best argument topics for your upcoming argumentative essay.

Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle Schoolers

Let's start with some easy argumentative essay topics for middle school students.

• Explain whether or not students should have schoolwork on weekends.
• Do you believe that the government should determine your school lunch?
• Should students have to take gym classes?
• Do you believe that children should have automatic screen time limits or should parents limit screen time manually?
• Describe your position on whether or not school uniforms should be required.
• Should violent video games be banned in the United States?
• How unhealthy are hot dogs?
• Why or why not should the electoral college be abolished?
• Should the school day be prolonged to accommodate a long weekend?
• Do you believe that prerequisite art classes should be mandatory for all college degrees?

Argumentative Essay Topics for High School Students

As you advance your education, you may also pick up more complex topics and open up a meaningful debate. So, here is a list of argumentative essay topics for students in high school.

• Do you think the FDA is effectively policing what is put into our food?
• What age do you consider the right age to start using social media?
• Do you believe a civics test is required for 12th-grade students to pass to graduate?
• Should professional athletes be permitted to use medications that improve performance?
• Should high school students receive free breakfast?
• At what point should children begin doing chores?
• Do you believe using electronic voting machines makes the electoral process fair?
• Do we have the power to affect climate change? Or is it far bigger and more powerful than we are?
• Should the legal age to vote be reduced?
• Should bottled water be prohibited if environmental protection is so important?

Argumentative Essay Topics for College Students

College students have more freedom when it comes to choosing a topic of choice and freely expressing their opinions. Here are some interesting topics for an essay to delve right into:

• Should the United States continue with daylight saving time, or should it be eliminated?
• Should superior grades guarantee scholarship eligibility?
• Has artificial intelligence overstepped its bounds?
• Should there be no tuition fees for a public college education?
• Do we need additional professional sports teams in the United States?
• Should social media companies be allowed to collect data from their users?
• Should there be a certain number of Supreme Court justices?
• Are actors and sportsmen in the entertainment industry paid more than they deserve?
• Should someone deny medical care due to their religious convictions?
• Why is the Second Amendment part of the US Constitution that causes the greatest controversy?

Controversial Argumentative Essay Topics

Touching upon controversy makes the best argumentative essay topics for writing. To add a little spice to your paper, consider the following options:

• Diversity Promotes Tolerance in Society
• Electronic Voting Is Ineffective Because There Is Too Much Fraud
• There is No More Free Journalism
• People Getting Addicted Isn't Caused by Entertainment
• Reality television fosters unrealistic expectations.
• Serving in the military is dangerously romanticized
• People's tax payments do not match the benefits they receive.
• Given the effects of COVID, further funding for mental health services is necessary.
• American Women Have the Same Chances as Men
• Pollution Prevention Is Not Realistic Under the Present Circumstances

Funny Argumentative Essay Topics

You may prefer to debate over funny topics. Here are some choices that will make humorous argumentative essay titles.

• Which is preferable, the night owl or the morning person?
• Do we have alien visitors, and if so, what do they want from us?
• Should the employer impose strict nap requirements?
• Is it OK to wear socks and flops together?
• Should scooters take the place of all public transportation?
• Can you eat pizza with a fork and knife?
• Should we mandate dancing breaks during the working day?
• Should we launch an initiative to promote cuddling as the new handshake?
• Is it moral to routinely tease your loved ones?
• Should we ban jeans and allow only pajamas to be worn in public?

If you want similar ideas for your next assignment, ask us - ' do my essay topics,' and we'll provide many more funny titles.

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Topics for Argumentative Speech

Here are some topics for argumentative speech from our speech writing service . With these options, you may as well confidently sign up for an inspirational TED talk!

• What Opinions Do You Have About Cancel Culture?
• Does being publicly shamed online prevent us from evolving and changing?
• Phone etiquette: Do you ever feel awkward using your phone among other people?
• How much, in your opinion, can we infer about our overall satisfaction from what is shared on social media?
• Should Schools Need a Course in Media Literacy?
• Does Teaching Happiness in Schools Make Sense?
• Are there any books that shouldn't be found in public or school libraries?
• What would you study if there was a unique school that taught you the things you truly wanted to learn?
• Should Every Young Person Learn How to Trade Stocks?
• Is Adversity a Prerequisite for Happiness?

Argument Topics on Social Media 

The most efficient argumentative essay title examples relate to social media and online trends. Try the following alternatives:

• Describe and analyze some of the issues that social media brings to society.
• Social media has gained increasing acceptance in classrooms over time. Discuss while pointing up positives and drawbacks.
• Describe the role that social media has had in the radicalization of society.
• Talk about some ethical issues that become moot when creating a social media account.
• Discuss how employing social media may assist in increasing your brand's overall value.
• The importance of social media in contemporary marketing and for kids and teens.
• What does social media weaponization entail?
• What are the psychological harms that social media causes?
• What impact does comedy have on mental health in online forums?
• What effects do social media have on how people communicate?

Argument Topics on Music

Maybe you'd enjoy an argumentative essay topic on music? Say no more! We have a special place for it in our hearts, and we couldn't wait to share them with you!

• Why Should a Musician Hire Another Person to Compose Music for Them?
• How the Making of Music Affects People's Thoughts
• Should performers utilize their platforms to speak out on social and political issues?
• Is live music more significant and true to its origins than recorded music?
• Can one use music as a means of expression and free speech?
• Is it morally required of musicians to utilize their platform to promote social and political change?
• Why music education should be a mandatory topic in schools.
• Why pursuing a profession in music is meaningful and beneficial.
• Why it's important to acknowledge and encourage the achievements made by women in music.
• Why it's important to promote and preserve vanishing musical traditions.

Health Argumentative Essay Topics

What about a health-related topic for argumentative essay? Choose one of the below and contribute to the meaningful conversation in medicine!

• Who carries out the main work, doctors or nurses?
• Oversleeping has no negative effects on the body.
• There should be restrictions on human medical testing.
• Physical and mental health demand different levels of care.
• Should the use of antibiotics be systematically and carefully regulated?
• Are health campaigns useful strategies for preventing and controlling disease?
• Should only those with healthy lives be eligible for organ transplants?
• Should the US proclaim obesity the biggest threat to the country's health?
• Should there be any regulation of US healthcare costs to increase access?
• Should genetic engineering be permitted as a kind of therapy for terminal illnesses?

Argument Topics on Science and Technology

For more up-to-date examples of argumentative essay topics, here are some ideas on science and technology:

• Do children's IQs differ depending on their socioeconomic status?
• Are humans becoming more or less lazy as a result of technology?
• Can we ever settle on Mars?
• Do technological advances imply a weakening of the force of nature?
• Can physicians ever be replaced by computers or robots?
• Should people work on AI development?
• Is the digitization of healthcare beneficial?
• Should people be allowed to own their own DNA?
• Will the use of robots improve our quality of life?
• What potential advancements in cloud storage are there?

Argument Topics on Sports

We couldn't possibly miss the argumentative essay example topics on sports. Sports are a huge part of our everyday life no matter nation or gender. Examine the topic ideas below; we're sure you'll find something inspiring:

• Why cheerleading belongs in the Olympic Games.
• Colleges should prioritize wellness initiatives above athletics.
• Are amateurs the only ones who practice non-contact versions of American football?
• What character traits are important in professional football?
• Could there be a place for women in the NFL?
• Is it appropriate for national teams to hire players from other nations?
• Why is women's soccer less well-liked than that played by men?
• Are the wages of soccer players too high?
• Is coordination more important in soccer than stamina?
• Is the current FIFA ranking system accurate?

Argument Topics on Government

As the government is a crucial part of our society, we believe exploring, criticizing, or favoring some political policies, figures, or systems can make the best topic for an essay:

• How should the government oversee online safety and privacy?
• Are protests and strikes effective ways to affect how the government works?
• Should more be done by the government to control and combat the rising issue of wealth inequality?
• Is choosing the president of the United States through the electoral college a successful process?
• Should the government be able to control and restrict access to weapons?
• Should more be done by the government to advance and defend the rights of underrepresented groups?
• Which political party do you favor in your nation and why?
• Offer advice on the finest and most efficient strategy to deal with corruption.
• Which political development or circumstance in the past year most affected you?
• Should the amount of money given to political campaigns be capped to prevent rich people from exerting too much influence?

Argument Topics on TV, Movies, Video Games

Last but not least, mainstream mediums of entertainment, TV, movies, or video games can also make some effective arguable topics:

• Do aggressive behavior and violence in society rise due to violent video games?
• Is it damaging when mental illness is portrayed in TV and film?
• Is the movie business doing enough to combat whitewashing?
• Is binge-watching television programs a safe pastime?
• Indie films: A subgenre or a way of thinking?
• The Ethics of Making Documentary Films
• Documentary Films: The Potential to Influence Humanity
• The Psychosocial Effects of Walt Disney's Heroes
• Are augmented reality and video games getting too immersive?
• Should parents be held accountable for watching their kids' graphic or violent media exposure?

Final Words

After researching a variety of excellent essay themes, you might wish to write a well-researched paper on your favorite. Don't forget that we are always ready to help you with all types of writing projects, from selecting an argumentative essay topic to perfecting the cause and effect essay structure . Contact us with your ' write a research paper for me ' request and let us take some of the pressure off your shoulders!

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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!

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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.

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Ultimate Argumentative Essay Topics List

26 July, 2020

18 minutes read

Author:  Elizabeth Brown

One of the most difficult assignments is one where you are given total freedom over the topic and subject. Where do you even begin looking for topics for an argumentative essay? Truly, the possibilities are endless – and usually, a little overwhelming. Doubts start to pour in. Is the topic right, good enough or even argumentative? Here is some advice on how to find the ultimate argumentative essay topic.

First of all, the best place to start is with the assignment and type of essay – remind yourself what the purpose of an argumentative essay is.

The purpose of this specific essay is to pose a question and answer it with compelling evidence. At its core, this essay type works to champion a specific viewpoint. The key, however, is that the topic of the argumentative essay has multiple sides. The audience can explain, weigh and judge these sides using relevant sources.

And secondly, choose something that you care about. Still, need some help to get those creative juices flowing? Here are some prompts to help you find that awesome title for an argumentative essay.

What makes a good topic for an argumentative essay

The key to choose a good topic for an argumentative essay is to pick a subject where there is a lot of debates on topics or stances. Selecting a debatable topic where there are no clear answers or even perspectives that are hundred percent correct gives you a lot of grey areas to work in, and a lot of sources to juxtapose against each to create your own viewpoint.

So, here is a short checklist on how to choose interesting argumentative topics:

If you can answer yes to all of these questions , then you have a great topic to write about.

If you’re having hard times choosing this topic yourself, consider our custom essay writing service. Surely, we guarantee quality and transparency of the process!

Need an explanation of how to write an argumentative essay and just find a topic for it? Check out our complete guide to this subject. We’ve got it all covered!

How to choose academic argumentative essay topics

There are three easy ways to create an argumentative essay title (if argumentative essay topics for gun control is juicy but not quite what you are looking for here):

Where to find argumentative essay topics

Argumentative essay topics are easy to find. They are happening around us every day in every walk of life.

If you turn on the television, you’ll find topics on the news as politicians argue about amendments to Medicare Bills, Space exploration, Video games, Pop culture, or the Death penalty.

• Local newspapers. First of all, local newspaper papers can be a good place to find interesting argumentative essay topics. They will have smaller stories on how the overdevelopment of small town to combat homelessness is putting a strain on local infrastructure, whether local law enforcement is doing enough to tackle crime, and whether the government does enough to support the development of the arts programs for local youths.
• Television. Secondly, television programs themselves will content argumentative subjects around issues like feminism, ethnicity, and poverty. Even more, by just watching the Discovery channel you can find great argumentative paper topics about animals. Various TV programs can be the subject of debate. Thus, you can talk about issues around Netflix’s Iron-Fist, the death of Lexa on 100, or the hotly debated topic of whether James Bond has to be white?
• Internet. Finally, the Internet is a good source to find psychology argumentative topics. Websites, where there are debates between people, are also a good place to pick up some interesting argumentative topics. Besides, Quora holds some surprising questions that turn academic quickly. A thread on whether the Hulk was scared in Avengers: Infinity War turned into a debate on French Theory surrounding Roland Barthes essay ‘The Death of the Author’ and the Russo brother’s statement that the Hulk was not scared but annoyed since Bruce Banner used him. It involved a lot of different perspectives the most interesting was whether Barthes viewpoint is still relevant in Tweet-savvy society. So, forums and message boards can be an excellent way to find good argumentative paper topics presented in a new light and debates that you won’t encounter in academic circles.

Related Post: How to write a Persuasive essay

Besides, music and literature are also a good way to find argument essay topics. Moreover, topics to write an argumentative essay on exist in every kind of industry possible – law, medicine, politics, religion, history, etc . The list is truly endless.  Trust us, everything that happens around you has a different perspective, a deeper and different viewpoint. So, just discover those – and you’ll find a debatable topic.

However, if you don’t feel like spending a sleepless night working on an essay, you can buy argumentative essay tasks here.

Argumentative essay topics list

Luckily, we’ve prepared an extensive list of good ideas. So, here are a few lists of some argumentative essay topics ideas to help get those creative juices flowing.

Easy Argumentative Essay topics

These topics for argumentative essays are easy to debate as there is a lot of information and sources available to support a stance on the issue:

• Do violent video games make people more violent in real life?
• Do the media put too much pressure on girls to have the perfect body?
• Should marijuana be more diverse in their casting?
• Should people be allowed to hunt purely for entertainment?
• Should governments legalize prostitution?
• How important is the education in the arts?
• Should the state provide healthcare?
• Is testing on animals really necessary?
• Should the government control TV Shows and Movies?

Argumentative essay topics on relationships

We can’t but mention these topics as well:

• Does the increase in social media make us lonelier?
• Should women wear less revealing clothing to curb unwanted attention from men?
• Traditional families, with high moral standards, never raise children that are criminals.
• ‘Culture makes people understand each other better. And if they understand each other better in their soul, it is easier to over the economic and political barriers.’ Paulo Coelho. Discuss this quote in relation to cultural appropriation.

Pop culture argumentative essay topics

• Does television have an impact on intelligence level?
• Video games are replacing literature movies as the new cultural forum for debate.
• Should the government regulate the media?
• Does the government need to introduce greater restriction and penalties on companies like Facebook that misuse our personal data?
• Do the paparazzi violate the privacy of celebrities?

Related Post: Compare&Contrast Essay topics | Research Paper topics

Animal rights argumentative essay topics

• How ethical is it to eat meat?
• Fox hunting is good for the environment.
• Horse / Greyhound racing treat the animals unethically and should be illegal. Discuss.

Cell phone argumentative essay topics

• Do cell phones make families closer?
• Should cell phones be prohibited at schools?
• What laws will prevent drivers from using cell phones while driving?
• Which is better – a smartphone or a smartwatch?
• Cell phones are an important tool for education.

Nutrition argumentative essay topics

• Schools should provide healthier food for children.
• Should vegetarian parents give their children meat?
• Can GMO food help prevent world hunger?
• Would a sugar tax help tackle obesity?
• ‘Steroids, when used correctly, will not only make you stronger and sexier, they will also make you healthier.’ – Jose Canseco. Should doping be allowed in professional sports?

Argumentative essay topics for college

These are great topics for college students:

• Are all documentaries biased and have an agenda?
• How is the #metoo campaign affecting the relationship between genders in the workplace?
• What does it mean to be a feminist? What are the best ways to be a feminist?
• Is caffeine more addictive than cannabis? Should it be banned?
• Do the news media create moral panics for ratings? Should there be greater control over the media?
• Is the increasing amount of student debts deterring people from further education? Is a free college education program the best solution?
• How does the gender segregation in chess highlight gender equality in society?
• Is the monetization of random loot caches in mobile games gambling?
• Do humans have the right to colonize other planets considering the current condition of the Earth?

Meanwhile, finding interesting essay topics is not enough. You should also know how to craft a compelling piece. If you are looking for examples of argumentative essays, here is a sample to help you out!

Argumentative essay topics for middle school

Some ideas for argumentative topics for middle school students could be:

• Should there be harsher punishments for bullying?
• Should school sports be mandatory?
• Newspapers aren’t needed anymore.
• The world should have one language.
• The media shouldn’t depict violent scenes.
• Are athletes being paid too much?
• Video games can be considered a piece of art.
• Should space exploration receive more funding?
• School uniforms improve students’ achievement.
• Should recycle become mandatory?

Argumentative essay topics for high school

Here are some argumentative topic prompts for high school students:

• Is prison the best way to reform criminal behavior?
• Should we legalize human cloning?
• Do social media have a positive or negative impact on teenagers?
• Should public schools teach religion?
• Restriction of the Internet policies in high school impact grades.
• It is ethically wrong to keep exotic animals as pets.
• Learning to write with a pen from a young age is impotent.
• A minimum wage boost would be detrimental to the economy.
• iPads and online resources should replace textbooks at schools.

Controversial argumentative essay topics

Some topics that are controversial to debate and evoke strong opinions:

• Should prostitution be legalized?
• Would greater gun control lower the violent crime rate in the U.S?
• Are there greater benefits from legalizing controlled substances as opposed to outlawing them and creating a black market?
• Do terminally ill patients have the right to euthanasia treatments?
• Should the government give more rights to immigrants?
• Is religion the cause of all wars?
• Should the state impose limits on family sizes to stop overpopulation?
• Should hate speeches be protected under the freedom of speech?

By the way, you should also take a look at our complete essay format guide. You don’t want to lose grades due to incorrect essay format. So, learn how to do it right with us!

Funny argumentative essay topics

These are funny and fun essays to write on:

• Should students be allowed to grade their peers?
• Can graffiti ever be considered art?
• Should we classify video games as a sport?
• Infomercials are a great source for facts.
• What goes on in the mind of a cat?
• Does smoking pot make you a better essay writer ?
• Scientists should use plain English.
• Cute cat videos are the secret to world peace.
• Is Hell endothermic or exothermic?
• Should police officers provide rewards to safe drivers?

Social argumentative essay topics

While still on the subject, these argumentative titles revolve around social issues in society:

• The police force should reflect the community they serve both racially and culturally.
• Are beauty contests for young girls a positive or negative issue?
• The Internet is destroying art and creativity as it impinges on the rights of artists.
• How important is it that we encourage minority groups to join law enforcement?
• Are teenagers being pressured into college?
• How is the increasing amount of camera used by the police creating a society where privacy has been eroded?
• Is teenage pregnancy really a problem for society?
• What role does creationism play in education? Should any educational institute be governed by religion?
• Is humanity good or evil by its nature?

Moral social argumentative topics

These are some argumentative essay topics based on ethical questions:

• When, if ever, is it morally right to tell lies?
• ‘Killing someone is the ultimate crime, while on the other hand, killing someone in uniform is the fulfillment of duty.’ – Ramman Kenoun. Is killing someone every justified? Discuss in relation to Euthanasia, the Death Penalty, and War.
• Drug use is a product of society’s ills and not an individual’s weakness.
• The main impact of society becoming more secular is the decrease in moral fiber and integrity of its populace.
• Torture is a necessary evil for the protection of the state. Discuss.
• Is there any justification for war?
• By buying products for countries that endorse child labor are we supporting the process?
• Are nude photographs and portraits appropriate artwork for museums?
• Does the preservation of a country’s culture take precedence over the rights of its new immigrants to conserve their old way of life on new soil?

Argumentative essays based on quotes

Quotes are a great way to give an argumentative essay title a great kick and focus:

• ‘ The greatest destroyer of peace is abortion because if a mother can kill her own child, what is left for me to kill you and you to kill me? There is nothing between.’ – Mother Teresa. Does abortion really destroy peace?
• ‘So what if I’m smokin’ weed onstage and doing what I gotta do? It’s not me shooting nobody, stabbing nobody, killing nobody. It’s a peaceful gesture, and they have to respect that and appreciate that.’ – Snoop Dogg. Discuss the relationship between drugs and violent crime in relation to the quote.
• ‘Peace is not made at the council table or by treaties, but in the hearts of men.’ – Herbert Hoover. Discuss this quote in line with US international politics.
• ‘So you think that money is the root of all evil. Have you ever asked what is the root of all money?’ Is money a source of evil in society?
• ‘Non-cooperation with evil is as much a duty as is cooperation with good.’ – Mahatma Gandhi
• ‘Do countries with strong gun control laws have lower murder rates? Only if you cherry-pick the data.’ If argumentative and persuasive essays cherry pick the data to strengthen their position, does research obscure the facts rather than inform? Discuss.
• ‘We have our own culture, our own community. A lot of people don’t realize that. They just assume that deaf people are very unfortunate, very disabled, but no.’ – Nyle DiMarco. Media and society often stigmatize groups through stereotypical and general presentations which have the detrimental impact on their identity. Should the media remain silent on disabilities? Discuss.
• ‘ You don’t have to burn books to destroy a culture just get people to stop reading them.’ – Ray Bradbury. Has the invention Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube lead to a cultural decline?
• ‘We seldom realize, for example, that our most private thoughts and emotions are not actually our own. For we think in terms of languages and images which we did not invent, but which were given to us by society.’ – Alan W Watts. Discuss.
• ‘I always felt the ‘X-Men,’ in a subtle way, often touched upon the subject of racism and inequality, and I believe that subject has come up in other titles, too.’ – Stan Lee. Comic books are always striving to be at the forefront of equality often changing the ethnicity, and sexuality of their characters. Do these changes suggest that ethnicity, gender, and sexuality have no impact on personal identity only social perception?

Sports argumentative essay topics

Meanwhile, sports are popular choices for discussion:

• We should ban boxing and violent sports.
• Performance enhancing drugs are becoming more prevalent in sports. What can we do to combat the problem?
• Is cheerleading a sport too?
• Football is too dangerous for the player, especially children, and schools should ban it.
• Controlled substances should not be advertised at sports events.
• Sports involving cars should use more environmentally friendly biofuel.
• Schools focus too much of their budget on sports and not enough on arts.
• There is no advantage in going first in chess.
• There is no need to separate sports by gender.

Finally, now that you’re ready to work on your paper, we want to remind you of t he importance of proper essay structure . Remember to compose an essay that consists of an introduction with a strong thesis statement, at least three main body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

The correct structure will only make your essay more compelling. So, choose one of our argumentative essay topics, and get down to business!

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Argumentative Essay topics to write Essays about

Look around you, listen, observe trends, and you will realize that there are many argumentative topics you can write an essay about. Every student yearns to write an argumentative essay that will score an A+ grade. The choice of a topic determines whether such wishes become a reality or an unrealized dream.

In this topic guide, we take you through researching and choosing the best argumentative essay topics. We have categorized the list and will keep updating it. You can easily pick a topic here and brainstorm around it or write an essay.

Suppose you identify a topic and need to write an essay but do not know how. In that case, you can buy an argumentative essay on our website. We have excellent argumentative essay writers who will plan, draft, and write a perfect argumentative essay for you.

Before anything else, let's remind ourselves how to arrive at the most suitable and relevant topics for our argumentative essays.

You have probably been struggling with choosing a good argumentative essay topic to write an essay. It is a common phenomenon when your argumentative essay prompt does not have a topic or a list of topics.

Why must you choose appropriate essay topics?

When no topic is assigned to you, you have no choice but to choose topics for your argumentative essays. When the choice is left up to you, there are a few things the professor or instructor is testing:

• Whether you can research and come up with a topic
• If you have understood how to choose a topic independently
• If you can leverage your critical thinking and creativity skills to formulate a good topic
• If you can write something interesting
• Whether you can pull out a controversial or funny argumentative essay topic and write a great essay on it

Choosing a good topic enables you to develop better arguments, develop a good thesis, and choose a great essay title.

Some skills when formulating a topic include reading and writing, comprehension, summarization, analytical, and research skills.

Therefore, when assigned to choose your own debate topic for an essay, it is for your own good.

What does a good argumentative topic look like?

Although controversial topics make for an excellent argumentative essay topic, any argumentative topic can easily score you a high grade. So let's look at some of the features that make a good topic for your argumentative essay:

• Debatable: An excellent argumentative essay topic should be debatable because you are to form arguments and counterarguments in an argumentative essay. You will be covering two sides of a given topic or issue.
• Relatable: A good argumentative topic for an essay should be relatable. It should adapt to your course, career, profession, or interests.
• Memorable: Choose a memorable topic to make your readers read an essay from the start to the end.
• Straightforward : A specific topic enables you to help your readers to continue the debate. You can also convince the readers that even though one side of the debate is better, the other side also fits the discussion.

To select an A+ worthy argumentative topic, focus on what is at hand. Many blogs and websites list topics that you can use when brainstorming.

Tips to use when choosing debatable or polemic essay topics

• Read the prompt to understand what your instructor looks for in your essay. If you are given a list, choose the most suitable. A topic is only suitable if it interests you, resonates with your skills, and has online information.
• Avoid topics that are difficult to debate. Remember, you have a few pages to write an essay. Therefore, limit the scope by selecting a topic whose content can fill your pages.
• Choose a topic you can express your opinion about without difficulties.
• Consult with your instructor if a topic is worth writing about and the possible angle to take if you are confused.
• Do not select emotionally charged topics, as they will most likely be challenging to tackle in one essay.
• If you are so clogged up, think about the news, search for issues featured, and look for information from scholarly sources.
• Try to write about controversial topics that everyone is avoiding. If written well, these topics can earn you grades because the chances of submitting or reading from the same source are scarce. Once you are a good writer, no topic under the sun is too tricky to tackle. Some controversial areas include extremism, climate change, religion, abortion, vaccines, gun control, marriage, parenting, animal rights, privacy rights, punishment, and marijuana legalization, to name a few.

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List of 300+ argumentative essay topics and Ideas

You have probably been struggling with choosing an excellent argumentative essay topic to write an essay. It is common when your argumentative essay prompt does not have a topic or a list of topics.

Our list is categorized to make settling for a given topic even easier. If you do not find a befitting topic, you can brainstorm using topics from this list to develop ideas and new topics.

Funny Argumentative Essay Topics

• Older adults should be allowed to relocate to other countries
• Dogs make better pets than cats
• Everybody should be allowed to choose their name at teenage
• Telling lies is good
• Panda hugging is a great career
• Is working in the zoo satisfying?
• Is Bermuda Triangle real?
• Should people be allowed to switch families?
• Should people with tattoos be employed in government positions?
• Breakfast is not the most important meal for the day
• Ditching sugar saves lives
• Working hours should be shortened
• Bars should be closed on weekdays
• Human cloning should be allowed
• Amazon is famous than Walmart
• Customers are never right
• High school teachers should never retire
• Men should be allowed to be stay-at-home dads
• Parents should never give birth to many children
• Politicians should visit the zoo to learn their animal character look-alikes
• Old politicians should retire
• Bean is the best comedian in the history of comedy
• Parents should pay their children for doing chores
• Every parent should buy their kid a bike
• Men are colorblind
• Dads care more than moms, discuss
• Commuting on bikes is safer than driving
• Carpooling is safer for kids
• Are surnames a curse or a blessing?
• Should one marry their first love?
• Does love conquer the world?
• Can someone love a poor person?
• Is there anything like date rape?
• Should camping be mandatory for every family?
• Are family functions useful?
• Is giving birth to a child costly?
• Should pregnant mothers be celebrated?
• Are naming parties a practical tradition?
• Women know how to choose things than men
• Should people celebrate baby showers?
• Do computers always crash when you have homework?
• Should deadline extensions be allowed for every student?
• Can a professor marry a student?

Controversial Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should conservatorship be allowed for mentally ill wealthy people?
• Should smoking in homes be banned for parents with kids?
• Should mothers in danger be allowed to abort?
• Is it ethical to kill feral cat populations in a town?
• Can surrogate mothers claim the wealth of their children?
• Should gay parents be allowed to adopt kids?
• Should everybody have access to health insurance?
• Electric vehicles are a greenwash
• Vaping should be illegalized
• Every country should give shelter to displaced refugees
• Sugar tax can help fight obesity
• Politicians are never serious with anything
• Girls are more intelligent than boys
• Long-distance relationships are healthy
• Religion does more good than harm to society
• Education prepares students for life
• The media promotes violence and racism
• Organic foods are better than GMO foods
• Doctors should be allowed to decide on assisted suicide
• Every student should receive bilingual education
• Every family should invest in urban agriculture
• Everybody deserves equal access to healthcare
• Net neutrality provides access to information to all
• Should the Death penalty be abolished?
• Does religion contribute to terrorism and wars?
• COVID-19 Vaccinations should not be mandatory
• Marijuana legalization for medical use is good
• Critical race theory (CRT) is not Marxism
• CRT teaches students to love America, not to hate it
• Freedom of speech should be allowed in school
• Human activities lead to climate change, and so humans cannot respond to it
• Social security should be a federal program
• Social security should not be privatized
• Artificial intelligence does better work than humans
• Everyone should be allowed religious freedom
• Do atheists have freedom of worship?
• Should the minimum wage be increased?
• Atheists should be allowed freedom of speech
• Homosexuality should not be criminalized
• Should developed countries pay reparations to developing countries?
• Ethical hacking is good
• Are labor unions effective in championing workers' rights?
• The electoral college should be abolished
• Outsourcing to developing countries is bad
• Outsourcing overseas increases unemployment in America
• Gun control laws have not reduced crime and gun deaths
• The United States should not give foreign aid but invest in the receiving countries
• Is nuclear energy the next energy frontier?
• Police brutality should be punishable
• Charter schools are better than traditional public schooling
• Students should be allowed to drop out of college
• Children should determine whether parents can divorce or not

Education Argumentative Essay Topics

• Teachers should be paid well
• Physical education classes should be mandatory
• Private schools perform better than public schools
• The state should fund college education
• Students should be forgiven student loans
• Students who are successful professionals should not apply for loans
• Every student must participate in an extracurricular activity
• Students should be allowed more time for homework
• Online book libraries should be free to access by all students
• A universal curriculum can equalize education
• College education should be free
• Standardized tests are great for evaluating performance
• Gifted students should be nurtured
• Students should randomly be tested for drugs
• Is compulsory homework beneficial for students
• Girls can also perform better on STEM subjects
• The world should have a universal uniform for students
• Teachers should be allowed to physically discipline students
• Expulsions and suspensions should be abolished
• Boarding schools should be abolished
• All students should learn programming
• Critical thinking and communication should be compulsory subjects
• Every student should learn philosophy
• Technology improves students' performance
• Does smaller class size improver student's performance?
• Is one-on-one teaching effective?
• Are online classes better than hybrid classes?
• Girls should be allowed to take part in sports
• Wearing hijabs and other religious or cultural clothes should not be allowed in school
• Religious organizations should not sponsor schools
• Parents must actively engage in their child's education
• Students should not be graded
• Schools should only cook healthy meals
• All students should eat from the school cafeteria
• Students should learn more than one language
• Vending machines in schools should be banned
• Teachers should not be banned
• Armed guards should guard schools
• Music should be mandatory in high school
• Middle school children should nap in the afternoon

Nursing Argumentative Essay Topics

• Nursing students should receive extra financial support from the government
• Access to nursing and medicine textbooks should be free
• Group work helps nursing students pass exams
• Capstone projects are easier to write than dissertations
• Nursing students are the most hardworking students
• Nurses should be paid better
• Nurse shortages affects population health
• Nurses are compassionate people
• Nurses make better parents and partners
• Nurses can address childhood obesity
• Nurses are better mothers
• Should anyone from any profession be allowed to study nursing?
• Nursing education should take more years to master
• Nurses who study and work should receive monthly stipends

Animal testing Argumentative Essay Topics

• Animal testing for cosmetics should be banned
• Companies that use animal subjects should pay higher taxes
• Products tested on animals should bear labels
• There are better and cheaper methods to animal testing
• Students should raise awareness about animal testing
• Animal testing subjects animals to avoidable pain
• Drugs tested on animals should not be used in humans
• Scientific discovery makes animal testing useless
• Scientists should champion for less animal testing
• Governments should protect the rights of animals
• Animal testing is unethical
• People should stop dressing animals like humans
• People who abandon their pets should be punished?
• Do animal shelters help animals?
• Is keeping animals in zoos inhumane?
• Should wild animals be tamed?
• Are pet snakes a ticking timebomb?
• Fashion brands should not use fur from animals
• Using animals for entertainment should be prohibited

Middle School Argumentative Essay Topics

• Do influencers make good role models?
• Are parents the best teachers?
• Parents should help their children complete homework
• Homeschooling is better than going to school
• Online classes are better than physical classes
• Cycling to school is better than commuting
• Electric cars conserve the environment
• Cigarette smoking should be banned
• People should be allowed to keep pets
• Older people should be assisted
• Schools should provide healthy lunch options
• School uniforms should be mandatory and similar for a given state
• All students should take sex education classes
• Teachers deserve better pay and packages
• Homework keeps students engaged
• Beauty pageants are a great idea
• Social media impacts bullying
• Students who bully others should be expelled
• Students should be allowed a safe space to share their problems
• Having friends in school is beneficial
• Students should be taught farming in school
• Every student should have access to education
• Schools should employ counselors
• Students should be allowed to invest
• Students who get excellent grades should nurture slow learners
• Students should be allowed to meet their icons
• Are teachers to blame for poor performance?
• Should regional grading be allowed?
• Are ivy league schools better than public schools?
• Should university rankings be abolished?
• Should all universities have the same curriculum?
• Universities should be nonprofit organizations

Parenting Argumentative Essay Topics

• Parents should be awarded when kids succeed in school
• Young couples should undergo mandatory premarital classes
• Weddings are overrated
• Democratic parenting is better than helicopter parenting
• Parents should inform their adopted kids when the time is right
• Parents should avoid assaulting kids
• Divorce affects kids more than parents
• Parents who get incarcerated lose touch with their kids
• Incentivizing appropriate behavior works for parenting
• Parents should teach kids about teenage pregnancy
• Parents should teach kids about contraceptives
• Parents with teenagers should teach them about the dangers of alcohol
• Drunk texting can be solved through proper parenting
• Single parents also make better parents
• Parents should pay fees for students until university levels
• Aged parents can move in with their adult children
• Parents should treat nannies well
• Same-sex parenting negatively influence a child's mentality and morality
• Governments should control childbirth
• Parents should only give birth to kids they can raise
• Parents should confiscate phones from their children
• Parents should read their children's diaries
• Should parents allow their children to go for sleepovers?
• Can parents intervene in their teenage children's personal relationships?

Sports argumentative topics

• Should animals not be used in sports?
• Cheerleading should be part of sports
• Colleges should spend money on sports programs
• Elite sportspeople deserve enormous pay
• Is sport related to talents?
• Can disabled people be professional sportspeople?
• Should college athletes be paid?
• Should sportspeople be allowed to change citizenships?
• Is FIFA a great sports organization than NBA?
• Can sportspeople fight for the rights of common citizens?
• Are Olympics competitions beneficial?
• Should marijuana be legalized for sportspeople?
• Can participating in sports affect academic performance?
• Should successful sportspeople be awarded honorary sports degrees?
• Do sportspeople make better leaders?
• Should transgender people be allowed to compete in sports?
• Should sports betting be banned?
• Are sports betting firms ethical?
• Is it ethical for betting firms to support social good courses?
• Should sports betting be regulated?

Moral issues or Ethics Topics to consider

• Should prostitution be legalized?
• Is it ethical for doctors to avoid treating a patient?
• Should homosexuality be normalized
• Should children participate in research even with the consent of parents?
• Should children be taught how to use pepper spray?
• Is it ethical to eat animals?
• Is eating swine ethical?
• Is it okay to lie to protect the truth that hurts?
• Are racial quotas by colleges beneficial for minority students?
• Is it right to use religion to mock others?
• Should homeless people be used to test drugs?
• Is it ethical to deny prisoners food?
• Should children be punished for the sins of their parents?
• Should using drugs be legalized?
• Should disabled people be allowed to participate in research?
• Should the church criticize the government?
• Should brands be allowed to advertise to kids?
• Is the legalization of marijuana economically beneficial?
• Should the rich be exempted from tax?
• Should church funds be taxed?

Technology Argumentative Essay Topics

• Google is making people stupid
• Artificial intelligence is the future of civilization
• Gamification raises better learners
• Driverless cars are far from being a reality
• Bitcoin should be adopted and regulated by governments
• Technology increases the complexity of cybercrimes
• Are humans too dependent on computers
• Smartphones are making people antisocial
• Online dating apps are both good and bad
• Cell phones are harmful to kids
• Social media fame can cause stress
• Cell phones are dangerous to the environment
• Should developed nations dump old technologies into developing countries?
• Does technology make the world equal?
• Should people pay to use the internet?
• Does technology influence creativity?
• Can technology help save animals from poaching?
• Is technology making privacy useless?
• Can bitcoin replace conventional money?
• Is mobile banking better than physical banking?
• Does technological advancement increase security threats?
• Do terrorists use social media to recruit insurgents?
• Has the internet created a global village?
• Technology is the glue that holds globalization, explain
• Can people stop using social media for their own free will?
• Are governments monitoring social media?
• Are social media a surveillance tool?
• Is slacktivism effective in bringing societal change?
• Too much screen time is bad for kids
• Businesses should use social media to engage customers
• Technology can help curb climate change
• Businesses should not sell customer information
• Multinational organizations should pay workers equally
• Counselors should not share client's details on social media
• Is LinkedIn an effective job-hunting platform?
• Can earnings from YouTube sustain an individual?
• Celebrity endorsements are unethical
• Social media killed person-to-person communication
• Social media has improved businesses
• Blogging is a great profession
• People can earn a living through social media
• Underage children should not be posted on social media

Aviation Argumentative Topics

• National airlines should be bailed out when in financial crises
• Airlines should not disclose personal information to marketers
• Airport security should be a priority
• Airports facilitate human trafficking
• Airports are the nerve center of transport globally
• Pilots should be paid well
• Performing airlines should be rewarded
• Private airports should be allowed
• Airports should have hospitals and research centers
• Pilotless aircraft technology is a threat to pilots
• Aircraft accidents are always fatal
• Children born in airports are allowed to travel free the rest of their lives
• Pilot shortage affects the performance of airlines
• Artificial intelligence has improved airline performance
• Working in airports has a high risk
• Aircraft crew are always welcoming
• Few women are pilots
• Female pilots are better than male pilots

Politics Argumentative Essay Topics

• The Iraq invasion was unnecessary
• Wars are creations by politicians for their personal benefits
• Government spending on wars should be reduced
• The US is not justified to withdraw from Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty
• Is patriotism dead?
• Is the president above the law?
• Can a president be prosecuted?
• Are African countries governed well?
• Is China colonizing the African continent through debts?
• Is America slowly falling into anarchy after the violent protests fueled by racial inequality?
• Terrorism is a political instrument
• Overrepresentation in parliament causes waste of public funds
• Is there an ideal political system?
• Are civil wars failures of national politicians?
• Does corruption stifle development?
• Is democracy dead?
• Are parliamentary republics better than presidential republics?
• Should politicians be allowed to invest in other countries?
• Should America build a wall around it?
• Is America a superpower?
• Can developed nations solve global problems?
• Are terrorist organizations political tools?
• The shift of the textile industry to China is bad for other countries
• The US and Russia can end all wars in the world
• All countries should stop using nuclear power
• Is North Korea a threat to global peace?
• Do trade blocs help with the flow of goods in countries?
• Should the UK continue with Brexit ideas?
• Should other countries meddle in elections in other countries?
• Is there a country that prefects the world?
• Do only a few people own the world?
• Are governments doing better to curb climate change?

Argumentative Essay Topics for Society and Culture

• Is the death penalty effective?
• Are gun control laws helping reduce gun deaths?
• Girls are too mean in relationships
• Competition is good
• Is gambling bad?
• Should working dads and moms get equal leave days?
• Should women have preserved positions in governments?
• Are Aboriginal groups overrepresented in the criminal justice system?
• Is there a link between poverty, hunger, and homelessness?
• Do all students experience culture shock when studying abroad?
• Is homesickness bad for students?
• Wealthy citizens should pay more taxes
• Drunk drivers who cause accidents should never drive
• Capital punishment affects mental health
• Violent video games make kids aggressive
• Cartoons influence the character of kids
• Watching too much television corrupts reasoning
• The media frames people to think in a specific way
• The media increases hate crimes
• Homeless people should be equipped with skills instead of money
• Instead of investing in wars, countries should invest in healthcare
• Countries should be borderless
• People should not own land
• Social media is bad for students
• Millennials are too entitled than the previous generations
• Gambling is a form of addiction

Argumentative Essay Topics about Law

• Everyone should be allowed to access justice
• Judges should be paid better
• American citizens should join the jury
• Is criminal profiling by law enforcement helpful in identifying criminals?
• Should serial killers be hanged?
• Is criminal justice fair for minority groups?
• Are private prisons better than state-run prisons?
• Alternative dispute resolution can reduce incarceration rates
• The American judicial system is against blacks and minorities
• Should governments monitor communications to deter crime?
• Should police officers who assault citizens be prosecuted?
• Is the international court of criminal justice efficient?

Argumentative Topics on Feminism

Topics on feminism are always thrilling. There is an instant rise in millions of feminists and feminist organizations. Yet, at the same time, many people criticize feminism. Feminism refers to a social, historical, and political movement of women who speak about economic, political, and personal equality between men and women.

Here are some argumentative topics to write a for or against essay:

• Feminism is not dead
• Mass media gives feminist voices
• Feminists are only existent on social media
• Are feminists a threat to men?
• Feminism is linked to hate crimes
• Is modern feminism discriminating against men?
• Feminism is a threat to equality
• Is Beyonce a feminist?
• Are women victims of false beliefs?
• Are gender roles and stereotypes significant today?
• Is the internet propagating feminism?
• Does feminism undermine masculinity?
• Can men be feminists?
• Is feminism promoting matriarchal society?
• Is feminism affecting family values?
• Is motherhood a way to control women?
• Are women the most important beings in the history of humanity?
• Does the media depict women wrongly?
• Are women depicted as tools in literature?
• Are women their own enemy?
• Is black feminism a separate movement?
• Is gender equality a myth?
• Are provocative methods in feminism effective?
• Stay at home moms should be paid
• Should housewives be paid?
• Is infantilization of women bad?
• Is sexualizing girlishness in ads bad?

Suppose you are finding it hard to think of an interesting debate topic for an argumentative essay. In that case, you could use our list of topics. These are topics formulated from a new perspective and angle.

These argumentative topics are great for middle school, high school, college, university, and even graduate students who wish to write outstanding argumentative essays. They are the best you can ever find out there.

A good topic for an argumentative essay is simple, unique, interesting, straightforward, and researchable. In addition, it is a topic that relates to your course contents, profession, or area that you like writing about.

Gradecrest is a professional writing service that provides original model papers. We offer personalized services along with research materials for assistance purposes only. All the materials from our website should be used with proper references. See our Terms of Use Page for proper details.

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• Writing Tips

50 Argumentative Essay Topics for Students

4-minute read

• 11th June 2022

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

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

●  Does texting hinder interpersonal communication skills?

●  Should there be laws against using devices while driving?

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

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

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

●  Is AI helping or hurting society?

●  Should cyber-bullying carry legal consequences?

●  Should Supreme Court justices be elected?

●  Is war always a political decision?

●  Should people join a political party?

●  Is capitalism ethical?

●  Is the electoral college an effective system?

●  Should prisoners be allowed to vote?

●  Should the death penalty be legal?

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

●  Is healthcare a fundamental human right?

●  Should vaccinations be mandated for children?

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

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

●  Should abortion be legal?

●  Is it ethical to perform medical experiments on animals?

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

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

Mental Healthcare

●  What causes the stigma around mental health?

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

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

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

●  Discuss the effect of physical activity on mental health.

●  Should sports be segregated by gender?

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

●  Are professional athletes overpaid?

●  Should college athletes be paid?

●  Should sports betting be legal?

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

●  Should graffiti be considered art or vandalism?

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

●  Should schools be required to offer art courses?

●  Is art necessary to society?

●  Should schools require uniforms?

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

●  Do standardized tests effectively measure intelligence?

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

●  Should higher education be free?

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

●  Are children better off in two-parent households?

●  Should LGBTQ+ partners be allowed to adopt?

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

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

●  Does helicopter parenting help or hurt children?

●  Should parents monitor their children’s Internet use?

Proofreading & Editing

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

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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

• November 24, 2016

schoolnotes.com

What is an argumentative essay?

A type of writing which is persuasive. The student needs to investigate a topic, evaluate evidence, collect, generate, and establish a standpoint on the topic in a strong and concise manner. There are numerous argumentative essay topics one can base on. So how would you go about writing such an essay?

How to Write a Good Argumentative Essay

Argumentative essay outline.

• Introduction
• Develop your argument
• Refute opponents claim

Introduction:

Your essay should always start with grabbing the reader’s attention. This is known as a  hook.

A brief discussion on the topic is done at this point which seamlessly brings about the thesis statement. For an argumentative essay it is wise to set up three claims which gives a strong reason for your stance on the subject matter.

Develop your Argument:

For you to develop a strong argument your claims should be backed by substantial  evidence.

Example of a claim: An apple a day keeps the doctor away.

Evidence of the claim statement: Research has shown that apples have phytonutrients that are vital in regulating blood sugar.  Apples are also ranked as an excellent source of fiber. Apples are found to be very helpful in the digestive tract they significantly alter amounts of two bacteria clostridiales and bacteroidales.

Refuting Opponents Arguments:

 This is where you state your opponent’s view.

According to new claims, not only apples are beneficial for complete nutritional intake pears are also a super fruit with more healthier benefits than apples.

Go in-depth with your refuting claim and give the nutrients of the pear and their function in our bodies.

Conclusion:

Restate the importance of the subject by giving shallow insights on the thesis statement tied to the body of the essay. Your reader should be convinced that your argument is valid.

Find a pictorial outlook of the essay outline

List of argumentative essay topics by subject

Legal matters.

• Should cigarettes and tobacco use be outlawed?
• Should medical marijuana be legalised?
• Did a newspaper act capriciously by publicly publishing addresses of gun owners?
• Is capital punishment right?
• To curb alcohol drinking and other vices should will a legal curfew for minors help?
• What should be the legitimate age for marriage?
• Should rules against women violence be stricter?
• Should the anti-terrorism law change to incorporate new terrorism trends?
• Has diplomatic immunity been abused?
• Should rapist face death penalty?
• Should the law enforcement cameras be scraped off, as a violation of public privacy?
• Should the miranda law be changed?
• Should taser guns be used?
• Should the age limit of minors to learn driving be increased?
• Should parents be held accountable for their children’s crimes?
• Should same sex marriage be legalised?
• Should same sex partners be allowed to legally adopt children?
• Should immigrants be treated more harshly when they have committed a crime?
• When is the use of military force legally justifiable?
• To deter mass shooting what can a society legally do?

Policy Matters

• Should students be required to take drug tests in campus?
• Should the drinking age be changed to a higher age?
• Should nuclear weapons be banned worldwide?
• Should prostitution be legalised?
• Should more restrictions be put on gun ownership?
• When does a woman have a right to abort?
• What age is appropriate to give girls birth control pills?
• Are the anti smoking advertisement effective on our teens, or what should be done more?
• Should guns be permitted in college campus?
• Should felons be allowed to vote while serving time?
• Should rich people pay more taxes?
• Is privacy more important than national security?
• Should the budget of a state be made public?
• Should there be a policy for animal testing?
• Should pre employment drug testing be banned?
• When does a patient have the right to physician assisted suicide?
• Should immigrants rights be made more flexible or toughened?
• Is paternity leave really necessary for men?
• Should the government provide universal healthcare?
• Should the government have a policy on universal diet?
• Are online reviews trustworthy?
• Has technology made us introverts?
• Do apps make you more productive or are a waste of time?
• Will robots take over medical surgery?
• Should children be supervised when  video gaming?
• How is the online disruption changing the way we live?
• Should online identity be obscured?
• Should social media be used in marketing a business?
• Is the advancement of internet good or bad?
• Will identity chips be a must in the future?
• Should medics use technology in organ transplant?
• Should drones be used outside the military scope as security?
• Should Genetically Modified Foods be encouraged?
• Should nanotechnology be used in medical science?
• Should video games be used as a teaching tool?
• Should technology be used in human and animal cloning?
• Should there be more restriction on tracking through websites?
• Should TV sets have built in digiboxes?
• Is China ahead in technology than the US?
• Is internet a necessity in the present day?
• Should supplements be taken daily?
• Should patients seek for body self cure instead of taking medication?
• Should there be a legislation on carbonated drinks?
• Is sugar substitute useful for dieting?
• Is America becoming a “fat man society?”
• Are low carb diets effective in weight loss?
• Should vending machines which sell candy and soda be abolished in schools?
• Should teenagers get the HPV vaccination?
• Do female athletes have issues with their reproductive system at later stages?
• Does meditation help improve the power of the mind?
• Should alternative therapy be used in dealing with menopause?
• Should fast food restaurants take blame for obesity rise?
• Does lead poisoning occur at domestic level?
• Should life saving procedures be performed for free?
• Should natural treatment be encouraged by the government?
• Should the schools have a role in the nutrition of the children?
• Should fat be avoided when on a weight loss quest?
• Should the government consider rationing unhealthy foods in schools?
• Does poor nutrition make someone to be irritable?
• Is being underweight just dangerous as being overweight?

Families and Relationships

• Are stay at home dad’s as productive as mom’s?
• What is the relationship impact of a family doing activities like sports together?
• Do long distance relationships last?
• Should you treat your pet as a member of the family?
• Do older people make exceptional parents?
• Should interracial adoption continue and how does it affect the family?
• Do “only child” get spoilt?
• Does helicopter parenting help or harm children?
• Should parents force their children to pageants?
• Should adopted parents allow biological parents to visit their children?
• Should one make a payment to the government to adopt a child?
• Does strict parenting raise well mannered children?
• Should parents drink or smoke in front of their children?
• Should single people adopt as easily as couples?
• Is breastfeeding in public acceptable?
• Do children warrant an allowance after  doing household chores?
• Should both parents assume responsibility of disciplining a child or should it be one?
• Should age matter in a relationship?
• Do beauty pageants infer confidence in the participants or otherwise?
• Should the age of consent be raised?

Environment

• Should sustainable clean water campaign be a worldwide campaign?
• Should poachers be given capital punishment when caught?
• Will ecotourism promote protection of wild animals?
• Should plastic bags be charged highly to discourage its use?
• Is using LED lights beneficial to the environment?
• How can we change our carbon footprint?
• Are landfills good for the environment?
• Should the government have policies to support clean energy use?
• Should countries continue to develop nuclear energy?
• Can hybrid vehicles save our planet?
• Should legislation against environmental crimes made tougher?
• Should water be recycled?
• Should car owners pay more taxes because of causing more pollution?
• Should companies with no clean disposing policy of industrial waste be closed down?
• Should persons found littering face punitive penalties?
• Is the government doing enough to reduce global warming?
• Should families own more than two cars?
• Can windpower help reduce global warming effect?
• Should cycling be encouraged for short distances?
• Should the government regulate oil drilling in the gulf of Mexico?
• Should children be allowed to scribble on walls?
• Should schools have the right to search students lockers?
• With rising cases of gun activity in schools, should teachers be allowed to have guns?
• Should there be a dress code in campus?
• Should government aid be based on student’s performance?
• Should teachers take yearly appraisals?
• Should sports be a mandatory subject in college?
• Should students be reprimanded for bad grades?
• Should first aid and CPR be mandatory lesson in schools?
• Should sex education be introduced in the early years of school?
• Should students take a one year break between high school and college?
• Does the current college education prepare a student for work life?
• Should free meals be provided in every school?
• Should discipline be more emphasised at school than home?
• Should lecture attendance in college be optional?
• Should school days be reduced?
• Should schools take standardized test seriously?
• How should schools curb bullying?
• Do you think  college ranking brings about unfairness?
• Should the high school period be extended?

Politics and Government

• Should all citizens be required by law to vote?
• Should the military and government staff allowed to strike?
• Should the electoral process in the US change?
• Is invading other countries justified if it is for a good cause?
• Is political caricature important for the society?
• By allowing gay marriages is it a way to attract votes?
• Should the two party rule in America change?
• Are married political leaders successful than their single counterparts?
• Which is the best system to rule a country? Democracy or autocracy?
• Is Obama’s presidency considered a failure?
• Should the influence of the British Monarch be above politics?
• Should political parties engage more young people?
• Will the voting apathy change in the near future in US?
• Should celebrities publicly support a political party?
• Should women empowerment be included in political reforms?
• What is the political ramification for African countries having close ties with China?
• Argue in favor or against liberalism and modern theory of politics.
• Argue policies that let to the fall of the USSR.
• The impact of social media in a politician’s life.
• Argue the influence of newspaper in politics.

Ethical Topics

• Should anonymity of sperm donors reinforced in regulation?
• Should stay at home mums receive an allowance for their work?
• Are early marriages a failure?
• Should people be allowed to bring their pets at work?
• Should weekly working hours be reduced from 40 hours?
• Are all mothers obliged to stay at home to take care of the young ones?
• Should sexist advertising be banned?
• Should the use of lie detectors be in an interview?
• Should men open doors for ladies?
• Should prom dates be encouraged?
• Can money buy love?
• Should abortion be legalised?
• Should genetic cloning be banned?
• Should you report your friend if you saw them cheating on a test.
• Should hunting be encouraged for the purpose of entertainment?
• Should you airbrush your photos or not?
• When should you compromise on your values?
• Should fraternities be banned in colleges?
• Argue should divorce be harder to obtain.
• Should there be a dress code for female teachers?
• Should steroids be allowed for certain sports?
• Should there be dependance on technology in sports?
• Should there be a tennis  tournament for the opposite sex?
• Should sports gambling be legalized?
• Argue why teams hire  international coaches?
• Should other sports be gender biased?
• Should the culture of sports be elevated in schools and colleges?
• Can professional wrestling cause violent behaviour in the fans?
• Argue the benefits of sports education.
• Should the NFL be held liable for the football players injuries?
• Should transgenders be recognised in sports?
• Argue cheerleading as a sport.
• Should paintball be classified as a sport?
• Are women considered the best in outdoor games?
• Should basketball be a game for tall people?
• Should cricket be a sport in the olympics?
• Should students be paid to play sports while in college?
• Argue not all sportsmen can become good coaches.
• Should women coaches work only with women athletes?
• Argue that chess is not a sport.
• Are mergers better than acquisitions?
• Should managers delegate duties?
• Argue Just in time technique for supply chain effectiveness.
• Argue business oriented policy is better than market oriented policy.
• Argue employees should be offered better perks than the job value.
• Should staff turnover of a company be made public?
• Argue employees can be satisfied with low salary if working conditions are great.
• Is it ethically wrong to exploit labourers for peak production?
• Should students learn business concepts so as to write better business essays?
• Argue how unstable political environment affect business.
• Should companies test their products on animals?
• Does business innovation distinguish between a leader and a follower?
• Do monetary incentives provide high levels of motivation to employees?
• Should small businesses contribute to charity?
• Should credit cards have warning labels?
• Argue case for virtual money.
• Is outsourcing really cheap as perceived?
• Should team building be a compulsory company policy?
• Is it ethical to start working for the competitor?
• Should government bail out small business gone bankrupt?
• Do some of the rap song have deeper meaning?
• Does listening to Mozart make you smarter?
• Is an unborn child affected by the kind of music the mother listens to?
• Should music be used as therapy to relieve pain?
• Does violent lyrics shape a violent society?
• Do portable music devices diverts the ability of a student’s concentration in class?
• Should bands that have been inactive for decades make a comeback?
• Does music have a role in politics?
• Does classical music have a place in the modern society?
• Is the opera outdated?
• Argue pianist are better than guitarists.
• Students should learn a musical instrument from a tender age.
• Are TV talent shows a positive or negative thing?
• Should a musician be a composer?
• Does the album have a future or is it outdated?
• Does music affect the development of a child?
• How does music affect an advertisement?
• Does fashion and music go hand in hand? Argue.
• Does listening to music when working make you more productive?
• Does the genre of music you love define you?
• Should cosmetic companies stop testing their products on animals?
• Should animal fashion trend be banned?
• Should endangered animals be kept in captivity?
• Should animal cruelty face more strident penalties?
• Should there be  harsher consequences for poaching say death penalty?
• Should people have exotic animals as pets?
• Should animals be tested by being given antibiotics for cure?
• Can the lives of captive animals be improved?
• Is it ethical to do experiments on animals for human gain?
• Are dogs better than cats?
• How can vivisection be made less stressful and painful for animals?
• Should animal cloning be banned?
• Argue for or against of cross breeding.
• Should animals be tested for human vaccines?
• Should border control have more machinery to detect animal trafficking?
• Should animal skinning for fashion be banned?
• Should animal euthanasia be encouraged?
• Should pets be given genetically modified foods?
• Argue animals are better at the zoo than the forest.
• Should zoos be privatised?

Immigration

• Does the government policies contribute to undocumented workers in the US?
• Will implementing strict laws deter immigrants crossing over Mexican border?
• Do immigrant form large part of skilled workforce?
• Do immigrants bring about human trafficking?
• Argue the pros and cons of illegal immigrants in an economy.
• Should the US develop an easier path for immigrants to gain citizenship?
• Argue reasons immigrants cross over to the US without proper documentation?
• How does public health policy affect undocumented workers?
• Argue, is the need to educate children of undocumented immigrants in the US?
• What is the effect of deportation on families of illegal immigrants in the US?
• Is the system of taxation fair for immigrants?
• How will a wall between Mexico and the US prevent drug trafficking and immigrants?
• Should an undocumented worker acquire property in the US?
• Is there a relationship between illegal immigrant and crime?
• Is the American dream dead for undocumented immigrants?
• Are European immigrants treated better than African immigrants?
• Should immigrants have or not have social security number.
• Do immigrants become easy victims of racism?
• Is there a difference in immigrants mindset from those coming from war torn countries?
• How can immigrants improve their lifestyle in the US?

Controversial Issues

• Are international footballers paid too much?
• Should lesbian families adopt?
• Should single sex schools be encouraged?
• Has divorced been influenced by the western culture?
• Should marriage of minors be approved in other cultures?
• Teacher and student relationship.
• Should condoms be distributed in schools?
• Should death penalty be abolished?
• Should pornograpy be completely banned?
• Should bodybuilders use steroids?
• Should sex education be taught to a minor?
• Should unethical advertisers licenses be revoked?
• Should government control the fourth estate?
• Should teenagers get a go ahead from parents on birth control pills?
• Should you believe everything in a commercial?
• Should youtube comments be regulated?
• Does intermarry promote racial tolerance?
• Violence in video games cause violence in children?
• Diets don’t help lose weight.
• Is breakfast the most important meal of the day?

Criminal Justice

• Should the US government add more funding to combat illegal immigrants?
• Does a good lawyer affect the outcome of a murder trial in the US.
• Argue, there is more gun crime in America than Europe.
• Should internet laws be more tightened to curb child pornography?
• Should police documented in brutality get away with it?
• What would solve congestion in prisons?
• Should juvenile criminals with capital offences be jailed as adults?
• Should motive of prison be correction or rehabilitation?
• Are drugs the main cause of physical violence?
• Should domestic violence be restricted to man abusing woman?
• Do the courts deal effectively to a police officer who has shot an innocent person?
• Should ex convicts be given work in the society after serving time?
• Should underage drinking be considered as a crime when one is taking a driver’s licence?
• Should police patrol on cars or on foot?
• Argue for or against capital punishment?
• Is gun control crime control?
• Should drunk driver be imprisoned?
• Should white collar crimes face harsher sentences?
• Should members of a gang, face same sentence?
• Should other methods of corporal punishment like community service help reduce crime?

Social Media

• Should teenager be encouraged to access social networks?
• Should there be legislation on the minimum age to open social media accounts?
• Which social media platform is better?
• Should employers scan social media profiles for potential employees?
• Are images stored on social media safe?
• Should there be legislation on spread of propaganda on social media?
• Is social media addictive?
• Are hours spent on social media productive?
• Is creating pseudo accounts in social media healthy?
• Should you track you teenagers social media activity?
• Is social media important for business?
• Has social media helped in the  spread of radicalisation?
• Should social media be tolerated in the workplace?
• Argue the challenges social media has brought about to the society.
• Is social media draining creativity of the young people?
• Should more people use social media?
• Should social media be censored by the government?
• Social media has impacted use of negative grammar. Argue.
• Social media has been argued the best way to organise mass events.
• Should parents be friends with their young children on facebook?
• Are there untold consequences of the war?
• Argue the fact that the war in Vietnam was justified.
• Could Puritanism influence modern America?
• Why is the US known as “land of opportunity?”
• Should a president be impeached for moral ethical issues?
• Argue for and against the Opium War in China.
• What is the “Iron Lady’s” role in the world history.
• Arab or Hindu’s who invented numerals?
• Argue the impact of Buddhism in Chinese empire.
• Did geography shape Greek history?
• Argue for and against Medieval Canon Law.
• Role of US in creating Panama.
• Argue negative or positive impact of Pol Pot in creation of Cambodia.
• Would you consider FDR Roosevelt as the greatest American president?
• Argue the case for and against the “Bush wars” against Iraq.
• Argue failure of Communist ideology in Russia.
• Should have Australia been discovered by James Cook?
• Argue for and against atheism.
• Argue factors which led to William the Conquerer be king of England.
• Argue factor which led to the holocaust.

School and College Life

• Is it important  which high school you attend?
• Should home schoolers participate in regular school tournament?
• Should prom be encouraged in schools?
• Should college education be free?
• Should there be affirmative action in college admissions?
• Is cheating in colleges getting worse?
• Should students grade their lecturers?
• Should teachers use corporal punishment in schools?
• Should there be a new way of teaching maths?
• Does the class size matter in performance of the students?
• Should scholarships be awarded in college?
• Can mobile phones be used as educational tools?
• Is college education enough to get a well paying job?
• Will more sex education in school reduce teenage pregnancy?
• Is teaching clean handwriting necessary in this age of digital disruption?
• Does a  business masters degree determine business success?
• Homework does more good than harm.
• Should you be friends with your lecturer on facebook?
• Doing sports in college should be mandatory.
• Argue for and against peer pressure in self development.

Miscellaneous

• Argue the greatest bargain you have ever got.
• Is wealth linked to happiness?
• Should there be a dress code for church?
• Are high heels healthy for the body?
• Is modern culture ruining childhood?
• Is decreasing wealth tax good for the economy?
• Argue assassinations can be justified.
• Should you know your ancestry?
• Should DUI offenders lose their licence?
• Does watching television make you smarter?
• Should you have friends?
• Is there an alternative to evolution
• Argue space exploration is a waste of funds
• Argue what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.
• How do electronic devices affect your body.
• Should offices have a facility for afternoon nap?
• Argue the role of emotional intelligence in a business.
• Should biodiversity be given more priority?
• Argue the case for and against emotional affair.
• Should social media be blamed for eating disorders?

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300 Questions and Images to Inspire Argument Writing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Top 30 Argumentative Writing Topics

Are you looking for some good argumentative essay topics? If that’s what you are searching for, you are definitely in the right place! Check out our top 30 topics for argumentative writing. These argumentative topics for essays will help students practice key academic and professional writing skills.

Argumentative Essay Topics

Argumentative writing.

Argumentative writing is a type of academic writing that requires writers to come up with a well-reasoned argument about a topic. The goal of argumentative writing is to persuade readers with a well-structured argument. Readers should be able to agree with the writer’s logic.

Benefits of Argumentative Writing

Here are some specific reasons why it is so important for students to practice argumentative writing.

• Academic and Professional Success: Argumentative writing is a key skill continuously needed in school and at work. Practicing argumentative writing will make students better at persuading others and logically presenting their opinions.
• Develop Critical Thinking Skills: Fosters the development of critical thinking skills that can benefit students in their academic and professional pursuits.
• Improve Research Skills: In order to present good evidence, students have to research and collect information from a variety of sources.
• Understand Different Perspectives: Writers have to consider different opinions and perspectives, which can develop empathy and understanding for others.

Other Types of Writing

Here are other types of writing that you might be interested in teaching your students.

• Persuasive Writing
• Expository Writing
• Analytical Writing
• Descriptive Writing
• Narrative Writing
• Comparative Writing

Topics for Argumentative Essays

Our top 30 argumentative essay topics are divided into three levels: elementary, middle school, and high school. Find the right topic for your students depending on their grade level.

Argumentative Writing Topics for Kids in Elementary School

• Is homework good or bad for students?
• Should students have to wear uniforms to school?
• Should kids be allowed to choose their own clothes?
• Should schools have more art and music classes?
• Should schools have more field trips?
• Should schools start later in the day or earlier in the day?
• Should schools have a dress code for students?
• Should schools have a longer summer break?
• Should pets be allowed in classrooms?
• Should junk food be banned from schools?

Middle School Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should cell phones be allowed in classrooms?
• Should the voting age be lowered?
• Should the driving age be raised?
• Should the government regulate the use of social media?
• Should schools implement gender-neutral bathrooms?
• Should zoos and aquariums be banned?
• Should students be allowed to grade their teachers?
• Should there be a limit on the amount of homework students receive?
• Should schools allow students to have mental health days?
• Should schools offer more vocational/technical courses or art/music courses?

Argumentative Writing Topics for High School

• Do you think college should be free for everyone?
• Should standardized tests be abolished?
• Should the government increase the minimum wage?
• Should there be stricter gun control laws?
• Should schools implement mandatory community service hours for graduation?
• Should the government regulate artificial intelligence?
• Should the death penalty be abolished?
• Which courses should high schools offer more and why?
• Do you think it should be easier or harder to adopt a pet?
• Should schools have mandatory drug testing for students?

Argumentative Writing Topics

Argumentative Essay Topics for College Students

• Does social media have a positive or negative influence on individuals and society as a whole?
• Should genetic engineering and modification of humans, animals, and crops be allowed?
• How should governments and individuals address climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions?
• What are the benefits and potential risks of widespread AI adoption, and how should it be regulated?
• Should recreational drugs such as marijuana be legalized and regulated?
• What are the implications of stricter gun control laws on reducing gun violence?
• Should higher education be free or more affordable to ensure equal opportunities for all?
• Is animal testing necessary for scientific and medical advancements, or should alternative methods be used?
• Should individuals have a right to online privacy, or is surveillance necessary for national security?
• Should the death penalty be abolished or retained as a form of punishment?

More Writing Prompts

If you are looking for more essay topics for your students, check out some of these more general writing topics.

• Writing Prompts and Topics for Beginners
• Creative Writing Prompts for Teens

Writing Activities

If you are looking for some good writing activities that will help your students improve their argumentative or general writing skills, check out these fun ESL writing activities.

• Round Robin Story
• Proof-Reading + Editing

FAQs About Argumentative Essay Topics

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about argumentative writing topics for students.

What is an argumentative essay?

An argumentative essay is a type of academic writing that presents a strong argument on a specific topic. The writer aims to persuade the readers with logical reasoning and convincing evidence.

What are some examples of argumentative essay topics?

Here are some good argumentative writing topics:

• Is animal testing ethical?
• Is social media harmful to society?
• Should the government provide free healthcare?
• Is there a correlation between video games and violence?
• Does technology make us more isolated?
• Is homeschooling more effective than traditional schooling?

How do I structure an argumentative essay?

In an argumentative essay, you should include an introduction, body paragraphs, counterarguments, and a conclusion. The number of body paragraphs can depend on the topic or the required length of your essay. You must include a counterargument section to address an opposing viewpoint. Addressing the counterarguments will make your argument stronger.

Argumentative Topics: Join the Conversation

What are your thoughts on these top 30 argumentative writing topics? Which one is your favourite topic? If there is another topic that you know and should be included in our list, please let us know in the comments. We’d love to hear from you.

About Jackie

Jackie Bolen has been teaching English for more than 15 years to students in South Korea and Canada. She's taught all ages, levels and kinds of TEFL classes. She holds an MA degree, along with the Celta and Delta English teaching certifications.

Jackie is the author of more than 60 books for English teachers and English learners, including Business English Vocabulary Builder and 39 No-Prep/Low-Prep ESL Speaking Activities for Teenagers and Adults . She loves to share her ESL games, activities, teaching tips, and more with other teachers throughout the world.

You can find her on social media at: YouTube Facebook Pinterest TikTok LinkedIn Instagram

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