Persuasive Essay Topics - Top Choices

Did you know that persuasive essays are exercises in rhetoric and powerful tools for shaping opinions and influencing behaviors? With approximately 70% of students in the United States tasked with writing such essays at some point during their academic careers, brainstorming a compelling theme becomes of vital importance. 

As a writer, you have to pick persuasive essay topics that make the difference between sparking lively debate and eliciting yawns from your audience. In this article, we’ll share a collection of persuasive essay topics that easily captivate readers and inspire thoughtful discourse and potential change.

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The List of Persuasive Essay Topics

A persuasive essay topic is a subject that prompts a writer to argue a specific viewpoint and convince the audience to agree or take action. So let’s get to the point - here’s the list of up-to-date viral persuasive writing topics, so you won’t spend hours googling and pondering which topic to choose. Take any you like, and enjoy the writing.

Good Persuasive Essay Topics

Finding a strong persuasive essay topic takes time and precision. Also, you need an action plan on how to research a topic as well. 

1. Should social media platforms ban fake news?
2. Should the use of AI social media be limited?
3. Should the use of plastic bags be banned?
4. Is AI taking over too many human jobs?
5. Is Gen Z going smarter with the use of high tech or does their thinking lack cohesiveness due to the use of social media?
6. Are video games harmful or beneficial to cognitive development?
7. Is it ethical to keep animals in zoos?
8. Should the death penalty be abolished worldwide?
9. Should the right to vote be limited not only in terms of age but also include the results of cognitive tests?
10. Is reading a sign of intelligence or is it a thing of the past?
11. Should humanity pursue universal ethics, or are moral relativism and pluralism inevitable?
12. Will English become a common language worldwide in the future?
13. Reimagining governance: Is democracy still the best option?
14. The myth of infinite growth: can sustainable economies exist?
15. Does the experience of video gaming influence everyday life?

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Persuasive Essay Topics for College

Advanced students on the lookout for persuasive essay topics for college will find the following ideas most interesting. 

1. Should college tuition fees be free for all students?
2. Is the grading system an effective measure of students' abilities?
3. Should colleges implement stricter policies against plagiarism?
4. Is it beneficial for colleges to adopt a pass/fail grading system?
5. Should colleges prioritize mental health services for students?
6. Is it fair for colleges to consider race or ethnicity in admissions decisions?
7. Should college athletes be allowed to profit from their likeness?
8. Is it important for colleges to offer courses on financial literacy?
9. What is the meaning of a gap year? Is it an opportunity or a delay?
10. Is it true that a performance-oriented mindset tends to exhaust mental health?
11. Should I be a true leader, an introvert or an extravert?
12. Is online education as effective as traditional classroom learning in college?
13. Should colleges implement stricter policies to combat sexual assault on campus?
14. Is it beneficial for colleges to offer courses on sustainable living practices?
15. Should colleges prioritize funding for STEM programs over humanities programs?

Persuasive Essay Topics High School

In high school, topics for persuasive writing have to always be on point. If you’re stuck in writer’s block, we’re here to help!

1. Should high school students be required to pass a financial literacy course before graduating?
2. Is it important for high schools to provide comprehensive sex education?
3. Should mental health days be mandatory in schools?
4. Can technology make humans physically obsolete?
5. Should high school students be allowed to choose their own curriculum?
6. Is it ethical for high schools to use surveillance cameras in classrooms and hallways?
7. Should high school athletes be subject to random drug testing?
8. Is it beneficial for high schools to offer courses on mental health and well-being?
9. Should schools switch to digital textbooks?
10. Is it fair for high schools to implement dress codes or uniform policies?
11. Should high school students be allowed to leave campus for lunch?
12. Is it important for high schools to teach comprehensive LGBTQ+ education?
13. Should high schools require students to complete a certain number of hours of volunteer work to graduate?
14. Is it beneficial for high schools to offer courses on environmental sustainability?
15. Can technology effectively reduce social inequality?

Persuasive Essay Topics on Education

This academic domain offers many peculiar persuasive topics for research. We’ve gathered the best themes that you can easily explore stress-free. But first, find out how to write a persuasive essay up to the mark.

1. Is online learning as effective as traditional classrooms?
2. Is the traditional grading system effective in accurately measuring students' knowledge and abilities after the introduction of AI
3. Should schools implement comprehensive sex education programs from an early age?
4. Is it important for schools to prioritize teaching emotional intelligence and mental health awareness?
5. Should students be allowed to grade their teachers?
6. Is homeschooling a viable alternative to traditional schooling?
7. Should schools provide free breakfast and lunch for all students, regardless of socioeconomic status?
8. Is the current curriculum adequately preparing students for the demands of the modern workforce?
9. Should financial literacy be a mandatory part of the school curriculum?
10. Is it beneficial for schools to offer classes on mindfulness and stress management?
11. Should arts and music programs receive equal funding and recognition as other academic subjects?
12. Is there a need for stricter regulations regarding bullying and harassment in schools?
13. Should schools prioritize teaching critical thinking skills over rote memorization?
14. Is there a need for more emphasis on environmental education and sustainability in schools?
15. Should schools provide comprehensive support services for students with learning disabilities?
16. Should internet access be a human right as a part of free access to education?
17. Self-taught vs. formal education: Who wins in the modern job market?
18. How do remakes and sequels impact the legacy of original films?
19. Gamification in learning: Fad or future?
20. Are zero-tolerance policies effective in preventing bullying?

1. Are alternative medicines effective?

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Persuasive Essay Topics on Society

Modern society faces plenty of challenges, which are a great source of inspiration for persuasive essay topics.

1. Should single-use plastics be banned worldwide?
2. Is social media usage contributing to a decline in mental health among young people?
3. Should hate speech be protected under freedom of speech laws?
4. Is gun control necessary to reduce gun violence in society?
5. Should the minimum wage be raised to a living wage?
6. Is healthcare a fundamental human right that should be guaranteed by the government?
7. Digital nomadism: The future of work or a passing fad?
8. Is police brutality a widespread problem that requires urgent reform?
9. Cancel culture: Tool for accountability or weapon for silencing?
10. Is immigration beneficial or harmful to the economy and society?
11. Should there be stricter regulations on the use of fossil fuels to combat climate change?
12. Is access to affordable housing a basic human right?
13. Should there be stricter regulations on the advertising of unhealthy foods and beverages?
14. Is the death penalty an effective deterrent to crime?
15. Is climate change the greatest threat to humanity?
16. Should all public places have gender-neutral bathrooms?
17. The globalization of youth culture: A threat to tradition?
18. Is zero-waste living realistic in modern society?
19. Should cities integrate nature into their infrastructure more?

Persuasive Essay Topics on History

History provides a wealth of diverse and impactful events, figures, and societal changes that offer rich material for exploring lessons, controversies, and parallels with contemporary issues, making it an excellent source of persuasive topics.

1. Was the Roman Empire’s expansion more beneficial than harmful?
2. Was colonization a beneficial or detrimental force for indigenous peoples?
3. Should the Crusades be viewed as religious wars or political conflicts?
4. Was the dropping of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki justified?
5. Was Christopher Columbus a hero or a villain?
6. Was the Civil Rights Movement successful in achieving its goals?
7. Did the Industrial Revolution improve the quality of life or create new challenges?
8. Should museums return cultural artifacts to their countries of origin?
9. Should Holocaust denial be considered a form of hate speech?
10. Should historical figures with controversial legacies, like statues of Confederate leaders, remain in public spaces?
11. Can diplomacy solve long-standing conflicts?
12. Should nuclear power be considered a green energy source?
13. How did colonization alter traditional food systems?
14. How do cultural festivals preserve historical memory?
15. How have fashion trends reflected historical changes?

Persuasive Essay Topics About Social Issues

Social issues are a compelling foundation for persuasive essays because they touch upon fundamental aspects of human experience, ignite passionate debates, and prompt critical examination of societal norms and values.

1. Should the government provide free healthcare for all citizens?
2. Is universal basic income an effective solution to poverty?
3. Are celebrities good role models?
4. Is censorship in entertainment ever justified?
5. Should online influencers be regulated?
6. Is access to affordable housing a basic human right?
7. Is euthanasia moral?
8. Is the criminal justice system biased against racial minorities?
9. Should LGBTQ+ individuals have equal rights and protections under the law?
10. Is access to quality education a fundamental human right?
11. How does homelessness impact public health?
12. Is climate change primarily caused by human activity, and what measures should be taken to address it?
13. Should abortion be legal and accessible to all women?
14. Is income inequality a growing problem that needs to be addressed?
15. Should protests ever turn violent to achieve social change?
16. Should social justice movements focus on one cause or take a broad approach?

Crime and Legal Persuasive Essay Topics

Crime and legal topics offer rich ground for persuasive essays due to their inherent complexity, moral ambiguity, and profound impact on individual rights, justice, and societal order.

1. Should the death penalty be abolished?
2. Is solitary confinement a humane form of punishment?
3. Should juveniles be tried as adults for serious crimes?
4. Is mandatory sentencing effective in reducing crime rates?
5. Is a fetus a child? Should abortions be legal in all states?
6. Is racial profiling a legitimate law enforcement tactic?
7. Is domestic violence treated seriously enough in the legal system?
8. Are longer prison sentences effective in deterring crime?
9. Should police officers be required to wear body cameras?
10. Is the War on Drugs effective in addressing drug-related crime?
11. Should there be stricter regulations on gun ownership?
12. Is the three-strikes law an effective deterrent to repeat offenders?
13. Should hate crimes be punished more severely than other crimes?
14. Are anti-piracy laws too strict?
15. Should non-violent drug offenders be given alternative sentences, such as rehabilitation instead of incarceration?
16. Are laws against online stalking adequate?
17. Should governments regulate cryptocurrency?
18. How do memes serve as modern political commentary?
19. Should companies disclose their political donations?
20. Should military service be mandatory?

Health Persuasive Essay Topics

Health is our biggest asset, so exploring topics related to medical aid or illnesses is a great move. If you need more essay topics, we have them here.

1. Is a plant-based diet healthier than a meat-based diet?
2. Are alternative medicines effective?
3. Should junk food be banned in schools to combat childhood obesity?
4. Is access to clean drinking water a basic human right?
5. Should workplaces have mental health leave policies?
6. Is mental health education as important as physical health education in schools?
7. Should healthcare workers be paid more for working in underserved areas?
8. Is the use of electronic cigarettes (vaping) a safer alternative to smoking?
9. Should there be a tax on sugary beverages to discourage consumption?
10. Is access to contraception and family planning services a fundamental right for women?
11. Should genetically modified organisms (GMOs) be labeled in food products?
12. Is healthcare a privilege or a commodity?
13. Should there be stricter regulations on the advertising of prescription medications?
14. Is the use of medical marijuana beneficial for treating certain medical conditions?
15. Should there be greater investment in mental health services and support?
16. Should dental care be included in universal healthcare?
17. Is happiness a choice or a byproduct of circumstances?
18. Should all countries adopt a universal healthcare model?
19. How does urban living affect physical health?
20. Should cosmetic surgery be regulated more strictly?

Women's and Gender Persuasive Essay Topics

Women's and gender issues are an excellent source of persuasive essay topics because they encompass fundamental questions of equality, identity, and justice.

1. Should gender equality be actively promoted in all areas of society?
2. Is feminism still relevant in the 21st century?
3. Should there be greater representation of women in leadership positions?
4. Should there be equal pay for equal work regardless of gender?
5. Are women’s health issues under-researched?
6. Is maternity leave sufficient for working mothers, and should paternity leave be offered to fathers?
7. Do you agree with the statement that the world is shaped for men, not women?
8. Is the objectification of women in the media harmful to society?
9. How does toxic masculinity influence gender relations?
10. Should gender-neutral language be normalized in public spaces?
11. How does representation in media influence gender norms?
12. How can societies combat gender-based violence?
13. Is the gender binary outdated, and should society embrace a more fluid understanding of gender identity?
14. Is the beauty industry promoting unrealistic standards of beauty for women?
15. Should there be greater access to reproductive healthcare services for women?

Ethics Persuasive Essay Topics

Every online essay writer knows that ethics provides a fertile ground for persuasive essay topics, prompting critical reflection on moral dilemmas, societal values, and the ethical implications of various actions and policies.

1. Should animal testing be banned in all industries?
2. Is it ethical to clone humans?
3. Should genetic engineering be used to modify human embryos?
4. Is it ethical to prioritize younger patients over older ones in critical care?
5. Should genetic testing be mandatory for each newborn baby to form a bank of DNA?
6. Should genetically modified organisms (GMOs) be promoted to fight hunger?
7. Is overconsumption a problem in today’s world? Is it ethical to use sweatshop labor to produce goods?
8. Should euthanasia be legalized for terminally ill patients?
9. Is it ethical to clone animals for scientific research or conservation purposes?
10. Should genetic engineering be used to modify human embryos?
11. Is it ethical to use artificial intelligence in decision-making processes?
12. Should genetic testing be mandatory for certain medical conditions?
13. Is it ethical to use sweatshop labor to produce goods?
14. Should there be limits on the amount of wealth individuals can accumulate?
15. Is it ethical to engage in cultural appropriation?
16. Should the use of performance-enhancing drugs in sports be allowed?
17. Is consuming products that harm the environment ethical, such as palm oil?
18. Should businesses prioritize profit over social and environmental responsibility?
19. Is it ethical to use personal data for targeted advertising?
20. Is it ethical to use technology to monitor citizens for security purposes?

Science Persuasive Essay Topics

Science offers a wealth of persuasive essay topics by exploring cutting-edge advancements, ethical dilemmas, and societal implications, fostering critical thinking and informed discourse on key issues shaping our world.

1. Should genetically modified organisms (GMOs) be labeled in food products?
2. Is climate change primarily caused by human activity, and what measures should be taken to address it?
3. Should nuclear energy be promoted as a clean alternative to fossil fuels?
4. Is space exploration worth the investment of time and resources?
5. Should there be stricter regulations on the use of antibiotics?
6. Are renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power more harmful to nature than fossil energy sources?
7. Can renewable energy meet global demands?
8. Should scientific research involving animals be subject to stricter ethical guidelines?
9. Should scientists have to disclose conflicts of interest in research?
10. Should there be stricter regulations on the use of pesticides in agriculture?
11. Is there a need for greater investment in stem cell research for medical purposes?
12. Can humanity survive without the internet?
13. How do wearables impact privacy concerns?
14. Is the "metaverse" the next evolution of the internet?
15. Should space exploration focus on finding extraterrestrial life?

Persuasive Essay Topics on AI Impact

Due to its transformative potential, ethical considerations, and societal implications, AI's impact provides a rich source of persuasive essay topics. Use our dissertation service if you require assistance with more complex papers rather than short compositions.

1. Should there be regulations on developing and using autonomous weapons powered by AI?
2. Is AI technology advancing faster than our understanding of potential risks and consequences?
3. Should there be guidelines for the ethical use of AI in the surveillance and monitoring of citizens?
4. Is AI exacerbating existing societal inequalities, such as access to employment and healthcare?
5. Should there be measures in place to prevent AI algorithms from perpetuating bias and discrimination?
6. Is AI technology contributing to job displacement and unemployment in certain industries?
7. Should there be transparency and accountability in the decision-making processes of AI systems?
8. Is AI technology enhancing or hindering privacy rights for individuals?
9. Should there be regulations on using AI in facial recognition technology by law enforcement agencies?
10. Is AI technology leading to the creation of safer autonomous vehicles than human-driven vehicles?
11. The ethics of artificial consciousness: do machines deserve rights?
12. Should artificial intelligence have a "kill switch"?
13. Should governments be allowed to limit freedom of movement in the name of national security?
14. Should AI be regulated to protect workers from exploitation?
15. Should the creators of AI learn AI to do physical work instead of creating content?

Persuasive Essay Topics on Racism

Racism is an important and impactful source of persuasive essay topics because it addresses systemic injustices, societal inequalities, and ethical imperatives, fostering critical examination and advocacy for social change.

1. How do racist stereotypes affect communities?
2. Should there be greater representation of diverse voices in the media industry?
3. Is cultural appropriation harmful?
4. Is reverse racism a real problem?
5. How can we eliminate racial discrimination in the workplace?
6. Should the “illegal immigrant” stereotype be challenged?
7. Is racial profiling a legitimate law enforcement tactic?
8. Does school discipline disproportionately affect students of color?
9. Is colorblindness an effective approach to addressing racism?
10. Should beauty standards be regulated by media platforms?
11. How can schools promote racial diversity and inclusion?
12. How do racial disparities in voting rights affect democratic participation?
13. How can companies address racial disparities in leadership positions?
14. How can the entertainment industry promote racial diversity and inclusion?
15. How can the media be held accountable for perpetuating racial inequality?
    

Unique Persuasive Essay Ideas

Would you like to stand out from the rest of the classroom with a unique topic that sparks interest and fosters meaningful dialogue? Consider choosing one of these persuasive essay topics

1. The impact of universal basic income on poverty reduction.
2. Why should online education be more accessible for adults?
3. Why should countries adopt a zero-waste lifestyle policy?
4. Is it a 4-day working week more productive?
5. Why should social media influencers be more accountable for their content?
6. Could a four-day workweek improve productivity and mental health?
7. Is social media addiction a public health crisis that needs more regulation?
8. Should children be allowed to have smartphones before high school?
9. Should fast food chains be taxed more to combat obesity rates?
10. Should climate change be taught as a mandatory subject in schools?
11. Should digital privacy be considered a fundamental human right?
12. Should self-driving cars be fully adopted to improve traffic safety and efficiency?
13. Should the tobacco industry be taxed higher to discourage smoking?
14. Should we invest in public parks to improve community well-being?
15. Should the use of drones for surveillance be banned?

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, now you have a diverse array of topic ideas. Feel free to squeeze from them as much as you can in your papers. At the same time, whether it's tackling complex essays or asking for support like 'do my homework,' our resources are here to aid you on your academic journey.

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