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205 Controversial Topics for your Essay, Speech, or Debate

Amanda Green was born in a small town in the west of Scotland, where everyone knows everyone. I joined the Toastmasters 15 years ago, and I served in nearly every office in the club since then. I love helping others gain confidence and skills they can apply in every day life.

Do you think social media platforms should censor politicians? No matter how important you feel this issue is relative to other issues of the day, you’re likely to have an opinion one way or the other. Why? Because it’s a controversial matter, and it immediately pushes some buttons in our brains.

What makes issues like this so engaging?

Controversial topics have two features that almost instantly grab people’s attention. On one side, they are both simple and familiar, and so are understandable without any effort. On the other side, they touch on sensitive matters that society as a whole has not yet come to terms with. This makes them tickle our inherent desire for closure. We want to make up our minds once and for all!

So if you’re looking for such a topic for your essay, speech, or debate, you’ve come to the right place!

We’ve compiled a list of hundreds of controversial issues organized by subject matter (You can visit our page on how to write a persuasive controversial essay if you want to improve your base skills). Whether you’re trying to come up with a topic for your science, psychology, history class – or nearly any other topic! – you’re sure to find an issue below that will keep your audience engaged, and even stir up some discussion.

In this article:

Political Debate Topics

Controversial criminal justice topics, controversial religious topics, controversial topics for teens, controversial science topics, controversial sports topics, controversial food topics, controversial nutrition topics, controversial animal topics, controversial topics in psychology, controversial relationship topics, controversial medical topics, controversial topics in nursing, controversial topics in biology, music controversial topics, controversial art topics, controversial history topics, funny controversial topics, what are the pros and cons of controversial topics.

As mentioned earlier, picking a controversial topic almost guarantees that you’ll command your audience’s attention. But such issues have downsides too. We go over the advantages and disadvantages of hot-button issues to help you make the right choice for your essay, speech, or debate.

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• Immediately engaging – Your readers or listeners are unlikely to doze off.
• Easy to find information on – You won’t have to look far to find credible information on controversial issues.
• Likely to keep you absorbed while researching – What’s interesting for your audience will probably keep boredom at bay for you too.
• Too sensitive for some people – These issues often have a strong emotional charge and may even be taboo for some, causing awkward situations.
• Hard to review all points – A huge debate has probably been raging on such topics, so it’s not so easy to cover all your bases and appear knowledgeable on the issue at hand.
• Hard to wrap up – These matters are controversial for a reason. It may be hard to come to a satisfactory conclusion, whether you’re presenting or debating.

Interesting Controversial Topics by Field

Below, we’ve compiled a catalog of fascinating controversial topics by field. Keep in mind that many of these spill over from one category to another, so there is some overlap. Is climate change a political or scientific issue? There’s a controversial question for you!

Controversy is where politics are born. There’s usually some point of disagreement about any matter related to public affairs – that’s why a politician’s main job is to debate and come to an agreement (ideally) on how to handle these issues. Or, as political scientist Harold Lasswell put it succinctly, politics is, “Who gets what, when, how.”

So political issues are controversial by definition. We’ve worked hard to provide you with the longest, most comprehensive list you’ll find anywhere, and any of these topics may be instantly captivating.

• Is democracy the best form of government?
• Should there be a minimum wage?
• Should the government intervene in the free market?
• Should the US government intervene in foreign affairs?
• Should there be term limits for US senators?
• Should the Electoral College be abolished in the US?
• Are there exceptions to the freedom of speech?
• Should hate speech be banned?
• Should the government ensure the protection of privacy?
• Is the gender pay gap real?
• Does institutional racism exist in the US?
• Is affirmative action helping or hurting?
• Is immigration helping or hurting the US?
• Should all illicit drugs be legalized?
• Should prostitution be legalized?
• Should abortion be banned?
• Should there be stricter gun control laws?
• Should automatic weapons be banned?
• Should military service be mandatory?
• Should water be a commodity or a human right?
• Should the government forgive all student debt?

Is justice being served? Few things get under people’s skin as much as perceived injustices. We are more or less programmed to seek fairness both for ourselves and for others. That’s why, similar to political topics, criminal justice issues are naturally engaging.

Appropriate punishment is salient now especially in the US after years of debates and protests related to the killings of minorities like George Floyd, Michael Brown, and Tamir Rice. More recently, the storming of the US Capitol, the role the President’s words had in inciting the perpetrators, and how liable they are when following their President’s words, are also hot-button issues. It’s hard to go wrong with a criminal justice topic.

• Is the death penalty ethical?
• Should people be jailed for drug-related offenses?
• Should police officers be charged for inappropriate use of force?
• Why are minorities disproportionately represented in the US prison population?
• Why does the US have the largest prison population in the world?
• Should mentally unstable people be charged with crimes?
• Should underage repeat offenders be tried as adults?
• Should there be more than 12 jurors in a jury?
• Should felons be allowed to vote?

Religion is a sensitive issue everywhere. Since it often concerns people’s innermost beliefs and principles, it’s not difficult to capture your audience’s attention with a religious topic. But beware that it’s also very easy to offend someone if you’re not careful.

Take religious freedom, for example – a concept interpreted in very different ways by different people. When in 2012 a Christian baker in Colorado refused to bake a wedding cake for a gay couple, was he exercising his religious freedom or discriminating against LGBTQ people?

• Is atheism a religion?
• Does religion do more harm than good?
• Should creationism be taught in schools?
• Should there be religious education in schools?
• Should religious symbols be banned from schools?
• Should schools’ curriculums consider religious points of view?
• Should public prayer be allowed in schools?
• Should religious institutions pay taxes?
• Are most religions inherently sexist?
• Is Buddhism more peaceful than other religions?

The teenage years are a transition period between childhood and adulthood, which causes a natural struggle between treating teens as children or adults. Can we hold teenagers accountable for crimes they committed? Or should their parents be responsible? Issues like this make a lively debate inevitable.

• Should we lower the voting age to 16?
• Should we lower the drinking age to 18?
• At what age should teens be allowed to date?
• At what age is it appropriate for teens to have sex?
• Should sex education be mandatory in school?
• Should teenage pregnancies be terminated?
• Should teens have access to birth control?
• Is cyberbullying as bad as real-life bullying?
• Is peer pressure good or bad?
• Does social media cause an increase in teenage suicide?
• Are beauty pageants harmful to teenagers’ self-esteem?
• Should teens be allowed to keep secrets from parents?
• Should energy drinks be banned for teenagers?
• Should mobile devices be banned at school?
• Is the school grading system effective?
• Should school uniforms be mandatory?
• Should teens be allowed to get tattoos?
• Should vaping be prohibited for teens?

Are you looking for more controversial topics for teens? Check out our other article where you can find 170+ controversial debate topics for teens , as well as the dos and don’ts when debating controversial topics.

Science has a very specific way of addressing controversies – by looking at evidence. When scientists disagree on something, they have to back their views with data and logical arguments. But scientific questions are often taken outside the realm of the experts and turn into social, political, or economic issues.

That’s why it’s important to be familiar with the concept of false equivalence – a fallacy in which a flawed or misleading argument is presented as equivalent to a sound and logical one. For instance, scientists have shown that the preponderance of evidence points to the reality of climate change. Media outlets and some politicians, however, sometimes present the issue as not settled. No matter whether climate change is real or not, saying that a politician’s opinion is as valid as a scientist’s – when we’re talking about that scientist’s field – is a false equivalence. Issues like that are bound to create a heated (pun intended) debate.

• Can scientists ever be objective?
• Should corporations fund research?
• Should science be optional in school?
• Why are women underrepresented in science?
• Is STEM education more valuable than training in humanities?
• Should cryptocurrencies be regulated?
• Should net neutrality be restored?
• Should robots have rights?
• Is AI a menace to humans?
• Is AI the next stage in evolution?
• Is technology helping or destroying Earth?
• Can renewable sources of energy replace fossil fuels?
• Is climate change a threat to humanity?
• Is cell phone radiation dangerous?
• Is climate change reversible?
• Should all cars be electric?
• Is nuclear energy safe?
• Does alien life exist?
• Could alien life have found Earth?
• Should humans try to colonize Mars?

Professional sports hold a lot of potential to create controversy. Hardly a week goes by without some major sports issue making the news. Whether it’s deflated footballs, kneeling during the anthem, or equal pay for male and female athletes, sports topics usually carry an emotional charge as most people have a strong opinion one way or the other .

• Should performance-enhancing drugs be allowed in sports?
• Are professional athletes paid too much?
• Are professional athletes good role models?
• Should college athletes be paid beyond scholarships?
• Should college athletes be tested for drugs?
• Is dance a real sport?
• Is video gaming a real sport?
• Is bodybuilding a real sport?
• Is cheerleading a real sport?
• Should mixed martial arts be banned?
• Should women compete against men in sports?
• Should female athletes be paid the same as male athletes?
• Should transgender athletes who used to be male compete in women’s sports?
• Do the Olympics do more harm than good for the cities hosting them?
• Are professional sports too damaging to athletes’ health?
• Is American football too dangerous for athletes?
• Should athletes who kneel for the anthem be sanctioned?

Sharing a meal with others unites us, but our opinions on food often divide us. Why is one part of the world starving, while another struggles with obesity? Is famine a result of a shortage or a distribution problem? Questions about food are important for humanity, which makes them compelling topics for discussion.

• Are genetically modified foods dangerous?
• Should genetically modified foods be labeled?
• Is organic food better than regular food?
• Is fast food responsible for obesity?
• Is food waste unavoidable?
• Is organic farming sustainable?
• Is factory farming unsustainable?
• Is grass-fed beef better than corn-fed beef?
• Is palm oil production causing deforestation?
• Can biotech foods save us from hunger?
• Should butter be stored in the fridge?

Nutrition is one of the most controversial scientific fields – dietary guidelines seem to be changing by the day. Is it OK to eat more than two eggs a day? Are carbs more unhealthy than fats? Issues like that are notoriously hard to resolve as even a carefully designed scientific study struggles to untangle the many factors that go into human health.

• Should we have nutrition classes in schools?
• Can a vegan diet help the environment?
• Is it healthier to be vegetarian?
• Is an all-meat diet healthy?
• Is dieting ever effective?
• Does fasting help or harm the body?
• Are gluten-free diets overhyped?
• Should we ban trans fat?
• Is sugar addictive?
• Are artificial sweeteners unhealthy?

Bring up the practice of eating dog meat in some countries to a dog lover, and you’ll more than likely evoke a very strong reaction. But how is it different from eating other social and intelligent mammals, such as pigs? There are many unresolved animal issues that can make for a captivating paper or presentation.

• Should animals have the same rights as humans?
• Should animals be considered individuals?
• Do animals have emotions?
• Do animals have consciousness?
• Is animal testing ethical?
• Should the fur industry be restricted?
• Are zoos helping or hurting animals?
• Should there be animals in circuses?
• Should we try to reverse extinction?
• Are humans destroying animal habitats?
• Is selective dog breeding unethical?
• Should bullfighting be banned?
• Should whaling be banned?

Many argue that psychology as a science is still in its infancy. There’s no consensus on a lot of the big questions related to people’s minds. Is there even a way to know what’s happening inside someone else’s head besides our own? A behaviorist would insist there isn’t.

• Is psychology a real science?
• Is depression a real disease?
• Are antidepressants effective?
• Is ADHD a real mental disorder?
• Is drug abuse a mental health issue?
• Is mental illness equivalent to physical illness?
• Should psychologists be allowed to prescribe drugs?
• Is prejudice against different people inherent?
• Is it ethical to “treat” homosexuality?
• Are social media sites addictive?
• Is social media connecting us or making us more isolated?
• Is pornography harmful to the psyche?
• Do video games cause violence?
• Is intelligence inherited?

Being in a romantic relationship involves constantly negotiating and renegotiating issues ranging from the most mundane to the most profound. On top of that, most adults are or have been part of a couple, making this a relatable and attention-grabbing subject.

• Is monogamy natural?
• Does divorce harm children?
• Should dating between co-workers be allowed?
• Should people date people much older than themselves?
• Is romantic love a prerequisite to marital satisfaction?
• Should arguments in a couple be avoided or encouraged?
• Should men and women have different functions in a relationship?
• Is it OK to keep secrets from your partner?
• Are long-distance relationships worth it?
• Is sex before marriage wrong?
• Is online dating good or bad?
• Are homosexual relationships natural?
• Should same-sex marriage be banned?
• Should LGBTQ people be allowed to adopt children?

Health is arguably the most important thing for a person. So it’s no surprise that we take issues related to health and medicine very seriously. Is there any point in prolonging a dying patient’s pain through life support? Questions like this are hard to give a definitive answer to, making them potent discussion topics.

• Are vaccines safe?
• Is Covid-19 manmade?
• Should immunization be mandatory?
• Should euthanasia be allowed?
• Is alternative medicine any good?
• Should healthcare be free?
• Is obesity a disease?
• Is circumcision healthy?
• Is stem cell research ethical?
• How harshly should medical malpractice be punished?
• Should Big Pharma be banned from charging too much for life-saving drugs?
• Should prescription drug manufacturers be held responsible for the opioid crisis?
• Should cannabis be prescribed as medicine?
• Should surrogate pregnancy be allowed?
• Should we use gene-editing in humans?
• Should the sale of human organs be allowed?
• Should genetic screening of embryos be legal?

If nurses are essential workers, why do they get paid so little? To get to the bottom of this, we need to go beyond the nursing profession and take a hard look at society as a whole. Besides, just like doctors, nurses face ethical dilemmas in their work every day, which creates a lot of room for debate.

• Are nurses compensated fairly?
• Should nurses’ shifts be shortened?
• Should nurses be allowed to prescribe drugs?
• Is the nursing profession better suited for women?
• Should nurses use artificial hydration and nutrition?
• Should nurses treat non-compliant patients?

Biology deals with nothing less than life itself! And what’s a more fascinating question than the origin of life? Although we seem to be far from deciphering this mystery, there are many other issues that both scientists and laypeople have good reason to debate.

• Is evolution up for debate?
• Did life emerge out of inorganic matter?
• Is there a viable alternative to the theory of evolution?
• How significant are the physiological differences between men and women?
• Is behavior determined by our genes or by our upbringing?
• Are there more than two genders?

If you’re a classical music lover, you’ll very likely scoff at the assertion that rock ‘n’ roll is the best musical genre. But who’s to say? Maybe someone will argue that there are objective measures of the quality of music. As with any issue that’s close to many people’s hearts, music can be an excellent topic for discussion.

• Is music getting worse over time?
• Is the pursuit of profit ruining music?
• Do music streaming services such as Spotify help or harm musical artists?
• Are violent or explicit lyrics harmful to society?
• Are rock stars a bad influence on children?
• Are The Beatles overrated?

Do you think Banksy will go down in history as one of the great artists, or do you see his works as cheap stunts? Either way, you’ll probably agree that art has changed almost beyond recognition since the time of Rembrandt. Whether that’s a good or bad thing is just one topic worth exploring.

• Is the value of art subjective?
• Should explicit art be censored?
• Who decides what constitutes art?
• Should an art piece always carry a message?
• Is contemporary art as good as classical art?
• Should any topic be out of bounds for art?

Hardly anyone would disagree that we should learn from history to avoid making the same mistake twice. But what exactly are history’s lessons is up for debate, and so make for great discussion topics.

• Are the two World Wars responsible for the relative state of peace since?
• Should the US pay reparations to African Americans because of slavery?
• Should Confederate statues in the US be taken down?
• Was Christopher Columbus a hero or a villain?
• Was the French Revolution inevitable?
• Is history always written by the victors?
• Is history bound to be repeated?

Are cats better pets than dogs? Does pineapple belong on a pizza? These are the kind of age-old debates we look into in our Funny Controversial Topics page.

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7 thoughts on “205 Controversial Topics for your Essay, Speech, or Debate”

Which is better, Chicago pizza or New York pizza?

Hey Nicole, just to answer your question personally I think Chicago pizza is too thick and I would choose New York pizza any day.

In my opinion Chicago pizza is clearly superior, and its thickness is one of its best attributes.

In my opinion New York pizza is clearly superior, and its thinness is one of its best attributes.

I second Chicago pizza lover’s statement, I think that Chicagos pizzas are much better!

In my very Italian opinion, true real pizza is Made in Italy only – the best. Cheers x 🙂

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• Interactive Presentation

Top 70 Controversial Debate Topics For Critical Thinkers in 2024

Jane Ng • 07 June, 2024 • 7 min read

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

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Table of Contents

What are controversial debate topics, good controversial debate topics, fun controversial debate topics, controversial debate topics for teens , social controversial debate topics, controversial debate topics on current events .

• Key Takeaways 

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

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

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

• Is it better to have a small group of close friends or a large group of acquaintances?
• Should you brush your teeth before or after breakfast?
• Should you put mayo or ketchup on the fries?
• Is it acceptable to dip fries in a milkshake?
• Should you brush your teeth before or after breakfast? 
• Is it better to use a bar of soap or liquid soap? 
• Is waking early or staying up late better?
• Should you make your bed every day?
• Should you wear a mask in public places?
• Should teenagers access birth control without parental consent?
• Should the voting age be lowered to 16?
• Should parents have access to their children's social media accounts?
• Should cell phone use be allowed during school hours?
• Is homeschooling a better option than traditional schooling?
• Should the school day start later to allow for more sleep for students?
• Is studying should be voluntary?
• Should schools be allowed to discipline students for social media use outside of school?
• Should school hours be reduced?
• Should drivers be banned from using mobile phones while driving?
• Should the legal driving age be raised to 19 in some countries?
• Should students take classes on parenting?
• Should teenagers be allowed to work part-time jobs during the school year?
• Should social media platforms be held responsible for the spread of misinformation?
• Should schools make drug testing mandatory for students?
• Should cyberbullying be considered to be an offense?
• Should teens be allowed to have relationships with significant age differences?
• Should schools allow students to carry concealed weapons for self-defense?
• Should teens be allowed to get tattoos and piercings without parental consent?
• Is online learning as effective as in-person learning?

• Should hate speech be protected under freedom of speech laws?
• Should the government provide a guaranteed basic income for all citizens?
• Is affirmative action necessary to address systemic inequalities in society?
• Should Violence/Sex on TV be abolished?
• Should illegal immigrants be allowed to receive social welfare benefits?
• Is the pay discrepancy between men and women the result of discrimination?
• Should the government regulate the use of artificial intelligence?
• Should healthcare be a universal human right?
• Should the assault weapons ban be extended?
• Should billionaires be taxed at a higher rate than the average citizen?
• Is it necessary to legalize and regulate prostitution?
• Who is more important in the family, father or mother?
• Is GPA an outdated way of assessing a student's knowledge?
• Is the war on drugs a failure?
• Should vaccinations be mandatory for all children?
• Is the use of social media algorithms to spread misinformation a threat to democracy?
• Should COVID-19 vaccine mandates be implemented?
• Is the use of artificial intelligence ethical in the workplace?
• Should AI be used instead of humans?
• Should companies be required to provide advance notice of lay-offs to employees?
• Is it ethical for companies to lay off employees while CEOs and other executives receive large bonuses?

Key Takeaways

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

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

1/ What are good topics to debate about? 

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

2/ What are some controversial debates? 

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

Here are some examples:

• Should schools allow students to carry concealed weapons for self-defence?

3/ What is an emotional and controversial topic in 2024? 

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

For example:

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

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200 Jaw-Dropping Controversial Speech Topics

By: Author The GenTwenty Team

Posted on Last updated: April 28, 2024

Categories College

Today, we’re diving into the juicy world of controversial speech topics. Whether you’re gearing up for a fiery debate or just looking to spice up your next presentation, these topics are sure to get people talking.

From politics and religion to social issues and beyond, we’ll explore some of the most contentious subjects out there. So buckle up, keep an open mind, and let’s dive into the controversy!

Controversial speech topics can fall into various categories, sparking debates and discussions. There are so many good topics which can lead to some persuasive speeches and introduce a new point of view. Here are 10 categories with examples of controversial topics in each:

1. Politics and Government :

Politics and government often stir up passionate debates whether among high school students or college students. Here are 10 extremely controversial speech topics in this category:

• Gun Control : Should there be stricter gun control laws, or should gun ownership be a fundamental right?
• Immigration : Should there be stricter immigration policies, or should borders be more open?
• Abortion : Is abortion a woman’s right to choose, or is it morally wrong?
• Capital Punishment : Is the death penalty an effective deterrent for crime, or is it inhumane and should be abolished?
• National Security vs. Privacy : Should governments prioritize national security over individual privacy rights, or vice versa?
• Climate Change : Is climate change primarily caused by human activity, or is it a natural cycle?
• Government Surveillance : Should governments have the right to conduct mass surveillance on their citizens to prevent terrorism?
• Healthcare Reform : Should healthcare be a public service provided by the government, or should it be privatized?
• Electoral College : Should the United States abolish the Electoral College and elect presidents based on the popular vote?
• Military Intervention : Is military intervention justified to protect human rights in other countries, or does it often lead to more harm than good?
• Electoral College Reform : Should the United States abolish the Electoral College and elect presidents based on the popular vote?
• Term Limits for Politicians : Should there be term limits for politicians to prevent career politicians and encourage fresh perspectives?
• Voting Rights : What measures should be taken to ensure equal access to voting, and should voting be mandatory?
• Government Transparency : How can government transparency be improved to ensure accountability and prevent corruption?
• Political Campaign Finance Reform : Should there be stricter limits on campaign contributions and spending to reduce the influence of money in politics?
• Political Polarization : How can political polarization be addressed to promote more constructive political discourse and decision-making?
• Immigration Reform : What policies should be implemented to address immigration issues, such as illegal immigration and border security?
• National Security vs. Civil Liberties : How should the balance between national security and civil liberties be maintained, especially in the context of surveillance and anti-terrorism measures?
• Government Regulation of Big Tech : Should the government regulate big tech companies to protect competition and prevent the spread of misinformation?
• Globalization and Trade Policies : How should governments approach globalization and trade policies to ensure fair trade and protect domestic industries and workers?

2. Social Issues :

Social issues often evoke strong emotions. You may find some controversial issues among this subject matter:

• Same-Sex Marriage : Should same-sex marriage be legalized, or is marriage strictly between a man and a woman?
• Racial Profiling : Is racial profiling an effective law enforcement tool, or is it a form of discrimination?
• Affirmative Action : Is affirmative action necessary to promote diversity and equality, or does it lead to reverse discrimination?
• Gender Identity : Should transgender individuals have the right to use the restroom corresponding to their gender identity?
• Police Brutality : Is police brutality a systemic issue that needs to be addressed, or are these isolated incidents blown out of proportion?
• Income Inequality : Should the government intervene to reduce income inequality, or is it a natural result of a capitalist society?
• Abortion Rights : Should women have the right to choose abortion, or is it morally wrong?
• Freedom of Speech : Should hate speech be protected under freedom of speech, or should it be restricted to protect marginalized groups?
• Legalization of Drugs : Should drugs like marijuana be legalized and regulated, or should they remain illegal?
• Euthanasia : Should individuals have the right to end their own lives in cases of terminal illness or unbearable suffering?
• Gender Pay Gap : Is there a gender pay gap, and if so, what can be done to address it?
• Homelessness : How should society address the issue of homelessness, and what can be done to provide support and solutions?
• Access to Healthcare : Should healthcare be a universal right, and if so, how can access to healthcare be ensured for all?
• Gun Control : What measures should be taken to address gun violence and ensure responsible gun ownership?
• Immigrant Rights : How should society approach immigration policies to protect immigrant rights while addressing national security concerns?
• Mental Health Stigma : How can society reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues and improve access to mental health care?
• Education Inequality : How can education be made more equitable, especially in terms of funding and resources for schools in low-income communities?
• Workplace Discrimination : How can society address issues of workplace discrimination based on race, gender, sexual orientation, and other factors?
• Child Welfare : What reforms are needed to protect children from abuse and neglect, and how can society better support families in need?
• Cultural Relativism : Is morality relative to culture, or are there universal moral principles that apply to all societies?

3. Ethics and Morality :

Ethics and morality are deeply personal and often contentious topics. However, a good persuasive speech topic means having your main points and facts down pat. Here are 20 extremely controversial speech topics in this category:

• Euthanasia : Should euthanasia be legalized for terminally ill patients who are suffering?
• Animal Rights : Should animals have the same rights as humans, including the right to life and freedom from exploitation?
• Genetic Engineering : Is it ethical to use genetic engineering to enhance human capabilities or create designer babies?
• Capital Punishment : Is the death penalty a justifiable form of punishment, or is it cruel and inhumane?
• Cloning : Is human cloning ethically permissible, or does it raise too many moral concerns?
• Surrogacy : Is commercial surrogacy exploitative, or does it provide a valuable service to those unable to conceive?
• Censorship : Is censorship ever justified, or does it violate fundamental rights to freedom of expression?
• Privacy Rights : Should individuals have an absolute right to privacy, or are there circumstances where privacy can be violated for the greater good?
• Environmental Ethics : Are humans morally obligated to protect the environment, or is human well-being more important?
• Torture : Is torture ever justified in extreme circumstances, such as to prevent a terrorist attack?
• Cultural Appropriation : Where is the line between cultural appreciation and cultural appropriation, and how should it be addressed?
• Corporate Social Responsibility : Should corporations be held to higher ethical standards regarding their impact on society and the environment?
• Privacy vs. Security : To what extent should individual privacy be sacrificed in the name of national security?
• Circumcision : Is infant circumcision ethical, or should individuals be able to decide for themselves when they are older?
• Drug Legalization : Should all drugs be legalized and regulated, or does this pose too many risks to society?
• Sexual Ethics : What are the ethical boundaries when it comes to sexual relationships, pornography, and sex work?
• Environmental Conservation : How far should we go to protect the environment, even if it means restricting human activities?
• Religious Freedom : To what extent should religious beliefs be accommodated in public life, especially when they conflict with secular laws?
• Artificial Intelligence Ethics : What ethical guidelines should govern the development and use of artificial intelligence, especially as it becomes more advanced?

4. Technology and Privacy :

Technology and privacy are hot topics with plenty of controversial angles. The first step is to realize the different sources technology and privacy stem from if you are really wanting to grab an audience’s attention.

• Government Surveillance : Is mass surveillance by governments a necessary measure for national security, or does it infringe on privacy rights?
• Social Media Monitoring : Should social media platforms be allowed to monitor users’ activities to prevent harmful behavior, or does this violate privacy?
• Biometric Data Collection : Is collecting biometric data (like fingerprints or facial recognition) for security purposes justified, or does it pose too many risks to privacy?
• Data Mining : Should companies be allowed to mine user data for targeted advertising and product development, or is this an invasion of privacy?
• Internet Censorship : Is censorship of the internet necessary to protect individuals from harmful content, or does it violate freedom of expression?
• Online Privacy Laws : Should there be stricter laws regulating how companies collect and use personal data online, or would this stifle innovation?
• Encryption : Should individuals have the right to encrypt their communications to protect their privacy, or does this hinder law enforcement efforts?
• Health Data Privacy : Is it ethical for companies to collect and analyze health data from wearable devices, or does this raise concerns about privacy and consent?
• Smart Home Devices : Do smart home devices that listen and record conversations invade privacy, or do their benefits outweigh these concerns?
• Digital Rights Management : Should digital content be protected by strict DRM (Digital Rights Management) to prevent piracy, or does this restrict consumer rights?
• Facial Recognition Technology : Should facial recognition technology be used for surveillance and law enforcement, or does it pose too many risks to privacy and civil liberties?
• Employee Monitoring : Is it ethical for employers to monitor employees’ digital activities, such as emails and internet usage, to ensure productivity and security?
• Cybersecurity vs. Privacy : Should governments prioritize cybersecurity measures, even if it means compromising individuals’ privacy?
• Internet of Things (IoT) : Are the conveniences of IoT devices worth the potential privacy risks associated with them?
• Biometric Identification : Should biometric identification methods, such as fingerprint or iris scans, be used for authentication purposes, or do they raise privacy concerns?
• Digital Surveillance in Public Spaces : Should governments be allowed to use digital surveillance technologies, such as CCTV cameras and facial recognition, in public spaces to enhance security?
• Data Breaches and Privacy : How should companies be held accountable for data breaches that compromise individuals’ privacy?
• Online Tracking and Behavioral Advertising : Should companies be allowed to track users’ online activities to personalize advertising, or does this violate privacy rights?
• Government Backdoors in Encryption : Should governments require tech companies to create backdoors in encryption software to allow access for law enforcement, or does this weaken overall cybersecurity?
• Digital Privacy in Healthcare : How should sensitive healthcare information be protected in the digital age, especially with the increasing use of electronic health records?

5. Environment and Sustainability :

Environmental and sustainability issues are no easy task and often spark intense debates. These potential topics could range from global warming to animal testing but some do require lots of research to explore the subject matter.

• Climate Change : Is climate change primarily caused by human activity, or is it a natural phenomenon?
• Fossil Fuels vs. Renewable Energy : Should the world continue to rely on fossil fuels, or should the transition to renewable energy sources be accelerated?
• Deforestation : Is deforestation necessary for economic development, or should more be done to protect forests?
• Plastic Pollution : Should single-use plastics (like plastic bags) be banned to reduce plastic pollution, or are there better alternatives?
• Wildlife Conservation : Is wildlife conservation more important than economic development, or can they coexist?
• Overpopulation : Is overpopulation a significant environmental issue that needs to be addressed, or are other factors more pressing?
• Water Scarcity : How should water resources be managed to ensure equitable access and sustainability?
• Nuclear Energy : Is nuclear energy a viable solution to reducing carbon emissions, or does it pose too many risks?
• Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) : Are GMOs essential for sustainable agriculture, or do they pose risks to the environment and human health?
• Carbon Pricing : Should carbon pricing be implemented to incentivize businesses to reduce emissions, or are there better approaches?
• Ocean Acidification : How should ocean acidification, caused by carbon dioxide absorption, be addressed to protect marine ecosystems?
• Fracking : Is fracking a viable method for extracting natural gas, or does it pose too many environmental risks?
• Environmental Regulations : Should environmental regulations be strengthened to protect the environment, or do they hinder economic growth?
• Meat Consumption : Should people reduce their meat consumption to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, or is this unnecessary?
• Carbon Offsetting : Is carbon offsetting an effective way to reduce emissions, or does it allow polluters to avoid taking real action?
• Sustainable Development : Can economic development be achieved sustainably, or is there an inherent conflict between growth and environmental protection?
• Geoengineering : Should geoengineering technologies be explored to counteract the effects of climate change, or do they pose too many risks?
• Environmental Justice : How can environmental justice be achieved to ensure that marginalized communities are not disproportionately affected by environmental degradation?
• Climate Change Denial : Should climate change deniers be given a platform, or should their views be dismissed in favor of scientific consensus?
• Consumerism and Waste : How can consumerism be reduced to minimize waste and environmental impact, and what role should businesses and governments play in this?

6. Education :

Here are 20 controversial speech topics in the area of education. They would make great argumentative essays and can even play into other topics such as violent video games and the access to sugary drinks. The following topics are a great way to explore education with a target audience:

• Standardized Testing : Are standardized tests an accurate measure of student learning, or do they place undue stress on students and teachers?
• Charter Schools vs. Public Schools : Should public funds be used to support charter schools, or do they drain resources from public education?
• School Vouchers : Should parents be given vouchers to use public funds for private or charter schools, or does this undermine public education?
• Inequality in Education : How can education be made more equitable, especially in terms of funding and resources?
• Sex Education : Should sex education be taught in schools, and if so, what should be included in the curriculum?
• Transgender/Gender Education : Is gender education beneficial for students, or is it not appropriate?
• School Safety : How can schools ensure the safety of students and staff, especially in light of recent school shootings?
• Teacher Tenure : Is teacher tenure necessary to protect educators from unfair dismissal, or does it make it difficult to remove ineffective teachers?
• Online Learning : Is online learning an effective alternative to traditional classroom instruction, or does it lack the same level of engagement and interaction?
• Religious Education : Should religious education be taught in public schools, or does this violate the separation of church and state?
• Arts and Music Education : Should arts and music education be a priority in schools, or are they less important than core academic subjects?
• Technology in the Classroom : How can technology be effectively integrated into the classroom to enhance learning, without replacing traditional teaching methods?
• Critical Race Theory : Should critical race theory be taught in schools to educate students about systemic racism, or does it promote division and resentment?
• Homeschooling : Is homeschooling a viable alternative to traditional schooling, or does it isolate children from important social experiences?
• Student Loan Debt : How can the issue of student loan debt be addressed to ensure that higher education remains accessible to all?
• School Discipline : What is the best approach to school discipline, and how can it be implemented in a way that is fair and effective?
• Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Education : Should schools provide education about sexual orientation and gender identity, or is this the responsibility of parents? How, for example, could this play into a topic such as school uniforms?
• Physical Education : How can physical education be improved to promote better health and fitness among students?
• Curriculum Content : How should curriculum content be determined, and who should have input into these decisions?
• Teacher Pay and Benefits : Are teachers paid and compensated fairly for their work, or are they undervalued compared to other professions?

7. Healthcare :

Healthcare is a complex and often contentious topic. Here are 20 controversial speech topics related to healthcare:

• Universal Healthcare : Should healthcare be a universal right provided by the government, or should it remain a private service?
• Healthcare Costs : How can the rising costs of healthcare be addressed to ensure access for all?
• Healthcare for the Elderly : How should healthcare for the elderly be funded and managed, especially with an aging population?
• Healthcare for the Homeless : How can healthcare services be improved for homeless individuals, who often lack access to care?
• Mental Health Care : Is there enough support and funding for mental health care, or is it still stigmatized and underfunded?
• Abortion Rights : Should abortion be legal and accessible, or should it be restricted?
• Healthcare for Immigrants : Should immigrants have access to healthcare services, regardless of their legal status?
• Alternative Medicine : Should alternative medicine practices be integrated into mainstream healthcare, or should they be regulated more strictly?
• End-of-Life Care : How should end-of-life care be managed, including the use of palliative care and euthanasia?
• Healthcare for the Uninsured : How can healthcare services be improved for the uninsured, who often rely on emergency care?
• Medical Malpractice : How should cases of medical malpractice be handled to ensure accountability and justice?
• Healthcare for Veterans : Are veterans receiving adequate healthcare services, or is more support needed?
• Reproductive Health : How should reproductive health services be provided and funded, especially for low-income individuals?
• Healthcare for Children : How can healthcare services be improved for children, including access to vaccinations and preventive care?
• Healthcare for the Disabled : Are individuals with disabilities receiving adequate healthcare services, or are there barriers to access?
• Healthcare for the LGBTQ+ Community : How can healthcare services be more inclusive and supportive of the LGBTQ+ community?
• Healthcare Technology : How can technology be used to improve healthcare services, while also addressing concerns about data privacy?
• Healthcare in Developing Countries : How can healthcare services be improved in developing countries, where resources are limited?
• Healthcare and Obesity : How should healthcare services address the growing issue of obesity, including prevention and treatment?
• Healthcare and Drug Addiction : How can healthcare services better address drug addiction, including access to treatment and support services?

8. Economics and Finance :

Here are 20 controversial speech topics in this area:

• Income Inequality : Is income inequality a natural result of a capitalist economy, or does it indicate a systemic problem that needs to be addressed?
• Minimum Wage : Should the minimum wage be raised to provide a living wage for all workers, or would this hurt businesses and lead to job losses?
• Wealth Redistribution : Should wealth be redistributed to reduce inequality, or does this discourage hard work and innovation?
• Corporate Taxation : Should corporations pay higher taxes to fund social programs, or would this hinder economic growth and job creation?
• Globalization : Is globalization beneficial for all countries, or does it lead to exploitation and economic imbalance?
• Trade Policies : Should countries prioritize free trade agreements, or should they protect domestic industries through tariffs and trade barriers?
• Financial Regulation : Should governments regulate financial markets more strictly to prevent another financial crisis, or does this stifle economic growth?
• Universal Basic Income : Should governments implement a universal basic income to reduce poverty and inequality, or would this be too costly and lead to dependency?
• Austerity Measures : Are austerity measures necessary to reduce government debt, or do they harm the economy by reducing spending?
• Privatization of Public Services : Should public services such as healthcare and education be privatized to improve efficiency, or does this lead to inequality and reduced access?
• Monetary Policy : Should central banks use quantitative easing and low interest rates to stimulate the economy, or does this create asset bubbles and inflation?
• Cryptocurrency : Is cryptocurrency a viable alternative to traditional currencies, or is it a speculative bubble waiting to burst?
• Gig Economy : Is the gig economy a flexible and innovative way of working, or does it exploit workers and undermine job security?
• Sustainable Investing : Should investors prioritize environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors in their investment decisions, or does this limit returns?
• Debt Forgiveness : Should countries forgive the debt of developing nations to promote economic development, or does this set a bad precedent?
• Welfare Reform : Should welfare programs be reformed to encourage self-sufficiency, or do they need to be expanded to provide a stronger safety net?
• Financial Bailouts : Should governments bail out failing banks and corporations to prevent economic collapse, or does this reward risky behavior?
• Financial Literacy : Should financial literacy be taught in schools to empower individuals to make better financial decisions, or is this the responsibility of parents?
• Tax Havens : Should tax havens be abolished to prevent tax evasion and promote global economic fairness, or do they serve a legitimate purpose?
• Inflation Targeting : Should central banks target a specific inflation rate to stabilize prices and promote economic growth, or is this approach too rigid and ineffective?

9. Media and Freedom of Speech :

Media and freedom of speech frequently ignite heated discussions. It is not hard to find an interesting topic with which to start off the writing process of an effective persuasive speech.

• Fake News : How should society address the issue of fake news, and what role should the government play in regulating it?
• Censorship : Is censorship ever justified, or does it violate fundamental rights to freedom of expression? Should social media platforms regulate content more strictly?
• Hate Speech : Should hate speech be protected under freedom of speech, or should it be restricted to protect marginalized groups?
• Media Bias : How can media bias be addressed to ensure balanced and accurate reporting?
• Social Media Regulation : Should social media platforms regulate content more strictly to prevent misinformation and hate speech?
• Journalistic Ethics : How can journalistic ethics be upheld in an era of clickbait and sensationalism?
• Freedom of the Press : Should journalists have special privileges and protections under the law, or should they be held to the same standards as everyone else?
• Whistleblower Protections : Should whistleblowers be protected from legal repercussions for exposing wrongdoing, or does this undermine national security?
• Political Satire : Should political satire be protected as a form of free speech, or does it contribute to a culture of disrespect and divisiveness?
• Public Access to Information : Should governments be required to provide access to information to the public, or are there valid reasons for withholding information?
• Media Ownership : Should there be limits on media ownership to prevent monopolies and ensure diverse viewpoints?
• Internet Freedom : Should the internet be regulated to prevent harmful content, or should it remain a free and open platform for expression?
• Digital Rights : How can individuals’ digital rights be protected in an era of widespread surveillance and data collection?
• Artistic Freedom : Should artists have the right to create and distribute controversial or offensive works, or should there be limits on artistic expression?
• Public Shaming : Is public shaming an effective tool for holding individuals and institutions accountable, or does it perpetuate a culture of outrage and intolerance?
• Corporate Influence in Media : How can the influence of corporations in media be reduced to ensure unbiased reporting?
• Freedom of Speech on College Campuses : Should there be limits on freedom of speech on college campuses to protect students from offensive or harmful speech?
• Media Literacy : How can media literacy be improved to help people discern between reliable and unreliable sources of information?
• Digital Disinformation Campaigns : How should governments and tech companies address digital disinformation campaigns that seek to manipulate public opinion?

10. Religion and Beliefs :

Religion and beliefs are deeply personal and often contentious topics. Here are 20 controversial speech topics in this area:

• Religious Freedom : Should individuals have the right to practice their religion freely, or should there be limits to religious expression?
• Religion in Schools : Should religion be taught in schools, and if so, how should it be incorporated into the curriculum?
• Creationism vs. Evolution : Should creationism be taught alongside evolution in schools, or should it be kept separate?
• Religious Extremism : How should society address the issue of religious extremism, and what role should the government play in combating it?
• Interfaith Dialogue : How can interfaith dialogue be promoted to foster understanding and tolerance among different religious groups?
• Religious Symbols in Public Spaces : Should religious symbols be displayed in public spaces, such as schools and government buildings?
• Blasphemy Laws : Should blasphemy laws be abolished, or do they serve a legitimate purpose in protecting religious sensitivities?
• Conversion Therapy : Should conversion therapy for LGBTQ+ individuals be allowed on religious grounds, or should it be banned?
• Women’s Rights in Religion : How can women’s rights be promoted within religious institutions that may have traditional gender roles?
• Religious Tax Exemptions : Should religious organizations be exempt from taxes, or should they be treated like any other nonprofit organization?
• Religious Texts and Literature : How should society approach the study and interpretation of religious texts and literature, especially in a diverse and multicultural world?
• Religion and Politics : To what extent should religious beliefs influence political decisions and policies?
• Secularism vs. Religion : Should society strive for a secular state that separates religion and government, or should religion play a more prominent role in public life?
• Religious Minorities : How can the rights of religious minorities be protected in societies where they are the minority?
• Scientific Advancement vs. Religious Beliefs : How should society reconcile scientific advancements that may challenge religious beliefs?
• Religious Freedom vs. LGBTQ+ Rights : How can society balance religious freedom with the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals, especially in matters such as marriage and adoption?
• Religious Tolerance : How can religious tolerance be promoted in societies with diverse religious beliefs?
• Religious Rituals and Practices : Should religious rituals and practices be respected and accommodated in public spaces, or should they be restricted to private settings?
• Religious Education for Children : How should religious education for children be approached, especially in multicultural societies?
• Religion and Science Education : How should science and religion be taught in schools to avoid conflict and promote understanding?

What Topic Will You Choose?

Controversial speech topics are a crucial part of public discourse and public speaking, challenging us to think critically, consider different perspectives, and engage in meaningful conversations. While these persuasive topics may stir strong emotions and opinions, they also provide an opportunity for growth and understanding.

Remember that some of the best persuasive speech topics require the outline by a great persuasive essay first. But, by approaching these topics with an open mind and a willingness to listen, we can contribute to a more inclusive and enlightened society.

So, whether you’re discussing politics, religion, social issues, or any other controversial topic , remember to keep the conversation respectful and constructive. After all, it’s through these debates that we can truly learn from one another and move forward together.

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Controversial Speech Topics That Will Wake Your Audience

Controversial speech topics in public speaking and writing should not give you shudders especially when everyone is trying to pull the right strings and walk the safe path. You will learn skills that will help you evoke opinions that are strong enough to move your audience, on both sides of the argument. The scope of controversial issues today is just too wide to be ignored. This gives you as a speaker a special place in addressing these issues in numerous fields and to tread slippery grounds playing the devil’s advocate.

The importance of developing argumentative skills is through extensive writing college students have to do in the course of their study.  College writing skills  help students learn the art of critical thinking that comes handy in defending various positions of arguments. A skill that runs through different settings, including political talks and public policy forums. You need this skill as a college student ahead of your final dissertation proposal to energize your argument positions.

What Are Controversial Topics?

Controversial issues are those which span various positions of an argument and often result in disagreements. Controversial persuasive speech topics involve discussions on these issues. Controversy is known to evoke strong emotions especially if it compromising one’s beliefs, values, and ethical principles.

Why Is It Important To Raise Controversial Topics?

Issues leading to controversy are often unspoken. But this is not the position social educators hold today. How else do students acquire substantive knowledge that enhances their understanding of the social world? Speech topics for college students are not only designed to deepen their scope of oratory ideas and the ability to identify good persuasive speech topics but also instill in them a rare capacity to deliver thoughtful judgments and informed decisions amid issues of controversy. Every student needs the knowledge of these controversial topics to craft an informative speech.

How To Choose A Speech Topic?

The initial step towards a successful presentation is your choice of informative speech topics. Most students often get it wrong because they choose topics which they barely deliver. The knowledge of your audience should help shape your topic to resonate with them perfectly. And lastly, is your interest in the topic. Choose a topic that claims much of your interest to increase your credibility during the presentation.

List of Controversial Speech Topics For 2019-2020 Schoolyear

And now let’s explore different examples of controversial topics in various spheres of life. These are among the most interesting topics to talk about in a speech and the most likely to feature in your college writing, classified by field, purpose, and different groups. Knowledge on these topics will equip you with a thorough understanding of the world as well as coming up with a catchy write up such as essays and research proposals. So  why is writing important in education ? Writing and presenting speeches are particularly essential at the college level since they ultimately prepare you to engage with the world and its diverse demography throughout the course of your profession.

• No negative political campaigning should prevail
• Electronic voting: concerns around security and privacy.
• A President governing  a nation by a set code of ethics
• Abolition of the electoral college
• Black Lives Matter VS Blue Lives Matter
• What is the impact of minimum wage on employment?
• Tax rates are too high
• Governments bailing out banks and financial institutions
• Should farmers receive financial protection from perils such as droughts and pests?
• Labor unions
• The national deficit
• Political campaign finance reforms
• Differences in salaries: professional athletes vs. military men and women
• Student loan debt

Social policy

• Women have less wealth. How to fix this.
• The American welfare state
• Culture wars: Stigma and discrimination
• Social work and service delivery issues
• The spread of hate and racism
• Causes and effects of world wars I and II
• The advent of legalized abortion
• Feminism and women rights
• Botched executions and the death penalty in America
• Make personal health records public
• Medical malpractice protection
• Ethics around the study of human genetics
• Medical marijuana and its benefits
• Animal testing and experiments

Nature and Environment

• Should we continue using pesticides and harm the environment?
• Recycling programs should be mandatory
• Garbage output should be restricted on a weekly basis
• Global warming: is it happening or mere propaganda?
• The US-Iraq war was wrong
• Where is lasting peace for the Middle East?
• The US should stop playing the world policeman
• Diplomacy or force? What should we do with North Korea?
• We shouldn’t allow Iran to go nuclear

Law and order

• Outlaw capital punishment
• Firearms with high-capacity magazines should be outlawed
• Mandatory federal sentencing and its impact
• How safe are shall-issue laws for concealed carry permits?
• Prisoners have their rights
• Should churches continue enjoying their tax-exempt status?
• Why do churches say NO to divorce?
• Organized religion has no place in society today
• Teaching religion in public schools: does it benefit society?
• Holy Spirit in Christian churches today

Science and researches

• Use of eugenics to enhance humans
• Implanted GPS
• Should we refrain from using genetically modified food products
• Hormone replacement therapy and ovarian cancer
• Is human cloning ethical?
• Physician-assisted suicide and euthanasia
• Should there be slavery reparations?
• Partial-birth abortion
• Protection and individual nourishment of children in “the system.”
• Every person’s life should be protected
• Sex offender notification
• Same-sex marriages: legal or illegal?
• LGBTQ’s have their rights
• Birth control: it’s regulation and availability
• Men to take their share in the birth control burden

Entertainment

• Gambling; legal or illegal
• Rock and roll is the best kind of music
• Why advertising alcohol and cigarettes should be banned
• Social impact of violent video games
• Body tattooing among other body art
• Age limit for sexual education
• Homeschooling and its impact on children
• Should bilingual education be mandatory?
• Evolution or creation? Which one should be taught in public high schools?
• Schools have fallen short of their life skills classes.
• Walmart needs to implement a dress code
• Smoking is actually good for you
• Are cats better companions than dogs?
• Teenagers should be given credit cards
• There are benefits in texting while driving.

Provocative

• Sex trade should be stopped
• Is media fair and balanced
• Legalization of marijuana: what is the impact?
• The US does not negotiate with terrorists.
• Government surveillance and public safety

Interesting

• Social networking and online privacy
• Freedom of speech on social media
• The government should put an end to income inequality
• Replace the electoral college by popular vote
• Fuel efficiency of vehicles

Motivational

• Self-help books. Do they actually help?
• “Pride House” for LGBTQ athletics
• Teens and self-image
• Adoptive parents should allow biological parents access to the children they gave birth to
• Teen depression
• Increase or lower the age of consent?
• Prohibition vs. drug legalization
• Chemical and biological warfare
• Outdoor smoking bans vs. claims to public space
• Free press vs. fair trial

For Different Groups

For college students.

• Implanted GPS is an infringement on privacy
• Availability of HIV drugs kits on drug counters
• Should mass school shootings be given media attention?
• The ethics of combining human and animal DNA in stem cells research
• Health insurance companies’ use of genetic information and medical history of their clients to assess their insurance worthiness.

For high school students

• Should prayers be imposed in schools?
• Single parents should not be allowed to adopt
• Nature vs. nurture. Is going green legit and working?
• Religion is essential for spiritual growth in a society
• No adult content should be allowed to feature in cartoon and other programs watched by children
• Disarming Americans may lead to civil war
• Journalism is the art of intellectual prostitution
• Hunting should be encouraged since it brings in money for state and local enterprises
• Why the all-male court culture has failed
• The ethics of Drone warfare

The above list puts to rest your quest for good topics to write a speech on. They are the most popular speech topics taking into account both the longstanding controversies in human history and the emerging issues in society.

Therefore, as you begin thinking about your dissertation or thesis proposal at the end of your course, you need to explore some of the persuasive topics above and write extensively to hone your skills. Students are encouraged to think about unique topics for their dissertation papers early in their degree programs and prepare their proposals for approval. A good proposal includes a statement of the problem or a topic of persuasion you seek to explore and the context in which you want to present your ideas. Then a thorough review of the literature relevant to the research problem.

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430 Controversial Debate Topics & Good Ideas

• Icon Calendar 2 October 2024
• Icon Page 4171 words
• Icon Clock 19 min read

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

What Is a Controversial Debate Topic and Its Purpose

According to its definition, a controversial debate topic is a specific issue that elicits strong, opposing opinions among individuals or groups, often reflecting deep-seated beliefs, values, or societal norms. For example, the main purpose for selecting a controversial debate topic is to foster critical thinking, enhance a better understanding of diverse perspectives, and encourage respectful dialogue (Lyon, 2024). Basically, common ideas may include subjects, like climate change, gun control, immigration policies, or reproductive rights, where key stakes are high, and emotions run deep. Further on, controversial debate topics challenge participants to articulate their views and ideas, support their central arguments with evidence, and engage with opposing viewpoints, which can lead to increased awareness and empathy (Wansink et al., 2023). In principle, exploring controversial issues allows individuals to develop essential skills, such as public speaking, persuasive writing, and logical reasoning. Moreover, an entire discourse surrounding controversial themes serves not only to illuminate some complexities of issues at hand but also to promote civic engagement and informed decision-making within society (Gunn et al., 2021). Hence, by navigating these contentious discussions, individuals can contribute to a democratic process and work toward solutions that reflect a broader consensus.

How to Choose

Choosing a good controversial debate topic requires a careful consideration and evaluation of several crucial factors to ensure an engaging and meaningful discussion. Firstly, students should select a subject that has clear opposing viewpoints, allowing participants to explore various perspectives effectively (Covington, 2023). In principle, common ideas should be relevant and timely, reflecting current societal issues or trends and increasing interest and engagement among an intended audience. Further on, a complexity of a controversial debate theme should be assessed and allow for an in-depth analysis and critical thinking rather than being overly simplistic or one-dimensional (Malloy et al., 2020). As such, students should consider a target audience’s background and familiarity with a subject, ensuring a selected subject is accessible yet challenging enough to stimulate thoughtful dialogue. Moreover, potential sources of evidence and research should be readily available, as a well-supported argument enhances a debate’s credibility (Rodriguez, 2021). Basically, a personal interest in debates can significantly impact a quality of engagement because passionate participants are likely to contribute more meaningfully to an entire discussion. In turn, some steps for picking a good controversial debate topic include:

• Identify Current Issues: Research contemporary societal challenges, issues, and ideas that are widely discussed in media or academic circles to find relevant themes.
• Assess Opposing Viewpoints: Ensure a subject has clearly defined opposing perspectives, which will facilitate a robust debate and encourage critical thinking.
• Consider Audience Interest: Evaluate some interests and backgrounds of your audience to choose a theme that resonates with them, ensuring engagement and relevance.
• Evaluate Complexity: Select a relevant controversial debate topic that is complex enough to allow for in-depth analysis, providing participants an opportunity to explore various facets and arguments.
• Ensure Availability of Resources: Confirm that there are sufficient credible sources and research materials available to support a controversial debate, enhancing an overall quality and depth of a discussion.

Good Controversial Debate Questions

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

Easy Controversial Debate Topics

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

Current Controversial Debate Topics

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

Academic Level Difference

Academic level differences directly influence a complexity and depth of controversial debate topics, shaping how issues are approached and discussed. At an undergraduate level, common ideas focus on fundamental concepts and widely recognized issues, providing students with an introduction to critical thinking and argumentation (Rodriguez, 2021). In principle, these themes may include basic ethical dilemmas, such as a morality of capital punishment or some implications of affirmative action. As students progress to graduate studies, standard discussions tend to cover specialized subjects, reflecting advanced theoretical frameworks and interdisciplinary approaches (Lyon, 2024). As such, graduate-level debates might address nuanced issues, such as an impact of globalization on cultural identity or ethical implications of artificial intelligence, requiring a higher level of analytical thinking and research. Moreover, Ph.D. candidates engage with controversial debate topics at an even more intricate level, often contributing original research or theoretical insights to ongoing scholarly debates (Covington, 2023). Basically, this academic progression not only enhances a participants’ understanding of complex issues but also fosters a more rigorous discourse that encourages innovative solutions and critical analysis. Therefore, an academic level of participants shapes a nature of controversial debates, influencing both selected topics and a quality of arguments.

Most Controversial Debate Topics

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

World Controversy Topics

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

Unique Lists of 307 Popular Controversial Debate Topics

School and education debate topics.

• Standardized Testing: Effective or Counterproductive?
• The Importance of Arts Education in Schools
• Should Schools Teach Financial Literacy?
• The Impact of Homework on Students’ Learning
• Bilingual Education: Benefits and Challenges
• Should Schools Implement Uniform Policies?
• The Role of Physical Education in School Curriculum
• Teaching Critical Thinking Skills in Schools
• Effectiveness of Climate Change Policies on Global Warming
• Impacts of Gun Control Legislation on Crime Rates
• Consequences of Immigration Reform on the Economy
• Ethics of Animal Testing in Scientific Research
• Validity of the Death Penalty as a Deterrent to Crime
• The Pros and Cons of Year-Round Schooling
• Should Schools Teach Sex Education?
• The Significance of Environmental Education in Schools
• Should Schools Incorporate Meditation and Mindfulness Practices?
• Teaching Coding and Computer Science in Schools
• The Importance of Early Childhood Education
• Should Schools Eliminate Letter Grades?
• Benefits of Outdoor Education and Field Trips
• The Impact of Gender-Segregated Schools
• Should Schools Teach Creationism Alongside Evolution?
• The Role of Teachers’ Unions in Education
• Benefits of Extracurricular Activities in Schools
• Should Schools Implement Zero-Tolerance Policies for Bullying?

Fun and Funny Debate Topics

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

Controversial Speech Topics

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

Controversial Debate Topics on Current Events

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

Controversial Topics for Discussion

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

Debate Topics on Social and Political Issues

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

Controversial Topics in America: The United States (US)

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

Current Controversial Debate Topics in the News

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

Heated Debate Topics

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

Life and Ethics Debate Topics

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

Moral Controversial Debate Topics

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

Controversial Law Topics

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

Conflicting Topics

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

Contradicting Controversial Debate Topics

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

Covington, H. F. (2023). The fundamentals of debate . Legare Street Press.

Gunn, L. H., Ghosh, S., ter Horst, E., Markossian, T. W., & Molina, G. (2021). Respecting opposing viewpoints through debate and discussion of controversial public health issues: A double-blinded active learning design. College Teaching , 70 (2), 186–195. https://doi.org/10.1080/87567555.2021.1910477

Lyon, L. S. (2024). Elements of debating: A manual for use in high schools and academies . Magic Publisher.

Malloy, J. A., Tracy, K. N., Scales, R. Q., Menickelli, K., & Scales, W. D. (2020). It’s not about being right: Developing argument through debate. Journal of Literacy Research , 52 (1), 79–100. https://doi.org/10.1177/1086296×19896495

Rodriguez, T. M. (2021). The art of debating . Christian Faith Publishing, Inc.

Wansink, B. G.-J., Mol, H., Kortekaas, J., & Mainhard, T. (2023). Discussing controversial issues in the classroom: Exploring students’ safety perceptions and their willingness to participate. Teaching and Teacher Education , 125 , 1–17. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tate.2023.104044

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Speeches can be intimidating, and that feeling of being “on stage” seems all the more concerning when you have to talk about a touchy subject. The most important factor to consider when planning your talk is choosing a good controversial persuasive speech topic that fits your personality. You will know if a topic is a good fit for you if it meets certain criteria:

• The topic stirs an immediate emotional reaction in you
• The emotional reaction is ​ not so strong that you risk “losing it” if someone disagrees
• You can think of at least three important facts or subtopics to help you take a stand and organize a sound case

Use the topics below as inspiration for your assignment, whether you are planning to write a controversial speech or an argument essay. Each topic is followed by a brief prompt, but that prompt is not the only way to approach your topic. The list is designed to inspire ideas. You may choose a different approach to one of them.

Controversial Persuasive Speech Topics

• Abortion —Under what circumstances should it be legal? You may want to consider age and health issues.
• Affordable Care Act —Is an individual’s access to healthcare a legitimate concern of the federal government ?
• Adoption —Should citizens from wealthy countries be able to adopt children from lesser-developed countries ? Should LGBTQ+ couples adopt?
• Age Discrimination —Should the government create policies to ensure that employers don’t discriminate based on age?
• Airport Security Measures —How much privacy are we willing to sacrifice in the name of flight safety?
• Animal Rights —When we promote animal rights, do we restrict human rights? What is the proper balance?
• Arms Control —Who's responsible for controlling arms trades around the world?
• Arms Trading —What are the ethical implications?
• Birth Control —What concerns do you have about age? Access? Affordability?
• Border Control —What measures are ethical? 
• Bullying —Are we all guilty in some way? How can we reduce bullying?
• Crimes on College Campuses —How can students stay safe?
• Censorship —When is it necessary for public safety?
• Chemical Weapons —When are they ethical? Are they ever?
• Child Labor —Where in the world is this a problem today? Is it your problem?
• Child Abuse —When is it OK to step in?
• Child Pornography —Is individual privacy more important than child safety?
• Climate Change —What does the science say? What do you think?
• Cloning —Is cloning ethical ? 
• Common Core —What is the truth? Is it dumbing down our students?
• Conservation —Should the government promote conservation?
• Cutting and Self-Harm —When should you say something if you suspect cutting is happening?
• Cyber Bullying —When are we guilty?
• Date Rape —Are we doing all that we can? Do we blame victims?
• Death Penalty —Is it ever okay to kill someone? When is it okay in your opinion?
• Disaster Relief —Which measures really work? 
• Domestic Violence —When should we speak up?
• Drinking and Driving —Do you know someone who pushes the boundaries?
• Drug Trade —Is the government doing enough? What should change?
• Eating Disorders —What if you suspect a friend or loved one has a problem?
• Equal Pay —Are we making progress?
• Euthanasia / Assisted Suicide —Where are the ethical boundaries? What if a loved one was facing this choice?
• Fast Food —Should the government have a say about fast food menus?
• Food Shortages —Do we have an ethical obligation to prevent them?
• Foreign Aid —How much of a role should your nation play?
• Fracking —What about your own backyard?
• Free Speech —Is this more important than public safety?
• Gang Violence —How can it be reduced? What are the causes?
• Gerrymandering —How much should we control when it comes to drawing lines?
• GMO Foods —How do you feel about labeling? Should we label all modified foods?
• Government Surveillance —Is it OK for the government to spy in the name of public safety?
• Gun Laws —What does the Second Amendment really mean? 
• Habitat Destruction —Should the government protect animals from human encroachment?
• Hate Crimes —Should hate crimes result in stiffer penalties?
• Hazing —When do fun and tradition become dangerous behavior? Who decides this?
• Homelessness —How much should we do for the unhoused?
• Hostage Release/Trade —Should the government ever negotiate?
• Human Population —Should it ever be controlled? Are there too many people on the planet?
• Human Trafficking —Are governments doing enough to protect the innocent? Should they do more?
• Internet and Gaming Addiction —Are teens at risk? Should there be limits to teen access?
• Juvenile Delinquency —When should teen criminals be treated as adults?
• Illegal Immigration —What is the most ethical response? Where should we draw lines?
• Legalization of Marijuana —What is the impact?
• LGBTQ+ Rights —Are we making progress or are we regressing?
• Mass Shootings —Is this a mental health problem or a gun control problem?
• Media Bias —Is the media fair and balanced? How has the internet made things better or worse?
• Medical Records and Privacy —Who should have access to your medical information?
• Meth Use —How do we educate young people about the hazards?
• Military Spending —Do we spend too much? Too little? Is this a safety issue?
• Minimum Wage Increase —What should be the minimum?
• Modern Enslavement —How do we end it? 
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• Violence in Video Games —What are the effects?
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• World Hunger —Is it our obligation to feed others?
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• Controversial speech topics

242 controversial speech topics

How to choose a good argumentative speech topic.

By:  Susan Dugdale  

'Girls wear trousers whenever and where ever they choose. Therefore boys should be accorded the same freedom to wear dresses if they want to.'

That's an example of a current controversial speech topic. It does exactly what you want a good controversial topic to do: trigger emotional responses both for, and against it. Schools who require their students to wear gendered uniforms (dresses for girls and trousers for boys) are being actively challenged!

Controversial or argumentative topics teach us to evaluate ideas, to think through pros and cons, and to debate. Because they are often so polarizing, they make some of the very best persuasive speech topics! 

What's on this page:

• 242 controversial speech topics - 40 food topics , 31 babies and children topics , 37 topics on teenagers , 133 topics on differing aspects of society
• What are controversial speech topics? Understanding what makes a topic controversial - the mix of passion, belief, fact and fiction.
• How to choose the best argumentative topic
• Resources for more topics and developing your speech

What are controversial speech topics?

The key word is  controversial.  It has a similar meaning to  argumentative. Controversial  comes from the word  controversy  meaning:

• a prolonged public dispute, debate, or contention; disputation concerning a matter of opinion.
• contention, strife, or argument.

Synonyms are:

• disagreement, altercation.
• quarrel, wrangle.

Click for a full  dictionary definition.

Therefore controversial speech topics or argumentative speech topics are those evoking passionate opinions: ones capable of splitting families, friends, communities and countries.

These are the hot topics, the sensitive topics, the ones we're currently working our way through.

Both sides of the debate are often convinced their point of view is right and their opposition's is wrong.

The benefit of delving into subject matter like this is being pushed to consider our own attitudes, values and emotional responses, which in turn helps makes us think more clearly. 

Historical controversial speech topics

History gives us examples of topics that once caused major strife. Now with the benefit of hindsight, we may wonder what all the fuss was about. Opinions have changed. What was once dangerous to discuss or even think about has become commonplace: unremarkable and acceptable.

Believing the earth moves around the sun, doesn't even raise an eyebrow now. But in 1633, in Italy, it was a highly controversial subject. The Roman Inquisition sentenced the famous astronomer Galileo to permanent house arrest over it.

Centuries later the abolition of slavery, giving women the vote, and desegregation in schools provoked similarly strong responses.

Modern controversial topics

Like their historical forerunners, these are argumentative or persuasive speech topics reflecting the current political and social issues impacting on, and shaping people's lives.

They can be broad, affecting everybody in the world, for example the global warming controversy (Does it really exist?), or narrow, concerning far fewer people. A good example of the latter are local conservation issues.

For instance in the area where I live there is a current, very lively, debate over land usage adjacent to an estuary.

Should a developer be given permission to close down the much used public walkway on the estuary edge in order to make it easier for his commercial development to go ahead? 

Regardless of their reach: global, national or local, controversial subjects draw impassioned debate. 

Who is right?  Who is wrong?  And is there a middle ground or compromise acceptable to both sides?

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How to choose a perfect persuasive speech topic

If you want your speech to be the best it can be, what comes next can make or break it.

Your first step is to consider ALL of the following aspects carefully before settling on a topic.

Who is your target audience?

A good speaker always considers their audience and shapes their speech around them. Think about the people you intend to speak to:

• Are they young? Are they older? Are they predominately male, female, or a mix?
• What common themes, attitudes, values and beliefs unite them?
• What cultural or social backgrounds do they have?
• What would be a good topic, one that is appropriate for both them and the occasion? The right topic will genuinely interest them, and will benefit them to know about.
• What do they expect from you as a speaker?

What is the purpose of your speech?

• Do you want to shock?
• Do you want to inform?
• Do you want to persuade?
• Is it a mixture of all, or some, of the above?
• What do you want the audience to do as a result of having listened to your speech?

Research & presentation

An effective controversial or argumentative speech is well researched. This provides it with a rational, rather than purely emotive, base.

For example: "I don't like XXX.",  has no logical appeal at all! It is not an argument.

However, " I don't like XXX for the following three reasons..."  , is the beginning of one.

If you want to challenge or change opinion you will research:

• the background history of your topic
• both sides of the argument - the for and against

You will present:

• factual, and if possible, demonstrable evidence or proof
• unbiased statistics
• and do so in a way that the audience can follow while fulfilling your speech purpose.

And very lastly

Choose a subject that truly interests you. That way your enthusiasm will carry you through the research, writing process, and rehearsal, to delivery.

 242 controversial speech topics

There are 242 persuasive speech topic ideas below for you to consider, split across four broad groups: food, babies and children, teenagers, and society.

What is more fundamental than the foods we eat?

Like air the breathe, the food we eat is essential to our survival and its history is a fascinating window into country, culture, and class. 

Food is controversial. It always has been and always will be. It is that way because it is vital, and anything vital arouses deeply felt passions.

Have fun with these!

• Fad dieting is driven by fashion rather than by fact and reason.
• Children should never be fed foods containing refined sugars.
• Children should never be put on fad diets.
• A mono (single food) diet of any sort is dangerous. Eg. a banana, or an apple diet.
• Refined sugar in manufactured foods including drinks causes ill health.
• Foods that are high in refined sugars should be taxed.
• All manufactured foods should have complete disclosure ingredient labeling.
• A vegan diet is the way of the future.
• Eating endangered species of any sort should be banned.
• Killing sharks for their fins to make shark fin soup should be illegal.
• Catching whales for consumption should be banned. 
• Foie gras, and any other food produced through cruelty to animals, birds or fish, should be entirely banned.
• Only foods produced sustainably and ethically should be eaten.
• The use of aspartame (sugar substitute) should be banned.
• Plastic food packaging should be banned.
• Our diets should mainly consist of seasonal foods that come from the region we live in.
• Fresh foods are healthier than processed.
• Locally grown foods are best.
• Artificial preservatives should not be used in food preparation.
• There should be no such thing as food waste.
• Healthy free food should be available to those who need it.
• Everybody should be taught to how to prepare simple, nutritious meals using raw ingredients rather than packaged or processed foods.
• Eating healthily saves lives.
• Schools should provide healthy meal options for their students at either free or at minimal cost.
• Fast, or take-out, food is addictive.
• Food should be prepared for the eyes as well as the stomach.
• Eating well doesn't need to be expensive.
• City authorities should encourage and support growing food on public land.
• We are what we eat. Fact or fiction.
• Children should be encouraged to eat whatever is given them.
• Do we eat to live, or live to eat?
• Judging people on the basis of the food they eat shows a lack of empathy.
• Good table manners are essential.
• Meals need to be eaten at regular times.
• In western, or first world, countries we need to control portion size.
• Food snobbery reinforces socio-economic difference.
• Food manufacturers have a responsibility to ensure the food they produce is wholesome regardless of its price and who it is intended for.
• Special designer diets are a luxury.
• Eating less meat and dairy foods would help save the planet.
• The family who eats together stays together.

Babies, children and teenagers

There are few topic areas more emotive than those to do with children. They are our future, our personal and family continuity, and often our reason for living.

How we shelter them, bring them up, educate and nourish them, literally and metaphorically, will always spark intense debates. 

Topics about babies and children

• The use of reproductive technology should be accessible to every one.
• Gender preference and the use of reproductive technology poses an ethical debate.
• Gender should never be a reason to abort a fetus.
• Genetic engineering is a moral and ethical minefield.
• Cloning babies should be banned.
• Children learn while they are in their mother's uterus.
• Every mother and her new-born child should receive the very best care available regardless of expense - paid for by state subsidy if needed.
• Children and babies should never be taken from their birth mothers on account of race.
• Being born outside of marriage is not a crime.
• All children should have the right to know who their parents are.
• Every child, regardless of the circumstances of their conception and birth, has the right to live, and to be loved.
• Every child has the right to a childhood.
• No child should be expected or forced to go to work.
• Every child has a right to an education.
• No child should be denied health care on the basis of cost.
• Every child deserves the best and most nutritious food possible.
• All children should have the opportunity to develop their abilities.
• No child should be the subject of any form of exploitation.
• Indoctrination (political or religious) of children is morally wrong.
• Children's education and extra-curricular activities should be free of gender bias.
• Children should be encouraged to be the best of themselves they can be, rather than the best boy or girl they can be.
• Marketing for children should be gender-free.
• Pink-washing everything (clothing, toys, sports gear ...) for girls is nothing but cynical marketing.
• 'Boys will be boys' as an explanation for tolerating poor behavior from male children is damaging.
• Advertising targeting children needs to be in the child's best interest.
• The rise of children's use of technology has impacts on their ability to learn  effective, meaningful face-face communication skills.
• Children without their own screen (computer, tablet etc) are compromised educationally.
• Every child should have unscheduled, uninterrupted time to play.
• The culture of excessive public health and safety concern is inhibiting children's natural curiosity to experiment and learn about their own physical capabilities.
• Parental and societal pressure to achieve academically is not always in the child's best interest.
• A woman should have the right to make decisions about her own body and to have them respected. That includes: using, or not using,  the best of whatever method of birth control is available to her,  pre-birth screening for disabilities, and abortion on demand. 

Topics for, and about, teenagers

• Making errors of judgment as a teenager is part of learning to become a responsible adult.
• Cell phones are an absolute necessity for teenagers.
• Cell phone usage restrictions are understandable.
• As a teen friends have more influence than family.
• Negotiating parental expectations is part of being a teenager.
• A teenager should not be allowed to get tattooed.
• Gender identity is becoming less important.
• All teenagers should do regular public service work.
• Teenagers should work to contribute toward their own living costs.
• Alcohol and drug education for teenagers is seldom effective.
• Bullying of any sort is unjustifiable.
• Taking and posting selfies  on social media is a form of narcissism.
• Real friends are not the people who like your posts on social media.
• Keeping safe on the internet is important.
• Every teenager deserves at least three or four chances.
• Single sex schools are best.
• Educational opportunities should be available to all.
• A juvenile should never be treated like an adult in the justice system.
• Teenagers have a right to privacy.
• Most juvenile crime is the result of living in difficult family situations and communities.
• Teenage boys would not act out so much if they had positive male role models.
• An unplanned teenage pregnancy ruins more lives than one.
• The advertising industry exploits teenage insecurities.
• Ranking students on their academic scores is not an accurate measure of their potential.
• Being a teenage boy/girl is becoming increasingly challenging.
• Girls wear trousers. Therefore boys can wear dresses if they choose to. 
• Stereotyping anybody is limiting the possibility you may have to see them as a real person.
• The music industry needs to take more responsibility for the way they influence moods and behavior.
• Censorship is sometimes necessary to protect us from things and people who could cause us harm.
• Violence should never be glorified or admired.
• Learning to cope with embarrassment without plunging into despair is an important life lesson.
• Leaning to accept and positively work with our own shortcomings is a sign of maturity.
• Envying others for their looks, money, intelligence and abilities or anything else is a waste of time.
• Parents should never lie.
• Respecting adults can be very difficult.
• What a person looks like, how they dress, determines how people respond to them.
• Having a positive role model is essential.

Controversial topics covering aspects of our society 

Medicine, drugs, education, conservation, voting, climate change, fossil fuels, water shortages, colonization, taxes, art, religion, housing...

There are so many topic possibilities to be controversially passionate about!  Any one of them could make a good speech.

• Aside from what is required by nature for reproduction of the human species, there are no true gender specific roles.
• Equal pay for equal work should be enshrined in law.
• Everybody who works for a living deserves a livable wage.
• Social services should be fully funded and supported by government.
• Nobody deserves to have a better standard of healthcare than anybody else.
• The homeless on our streets need our help.
• Victims of family violence should never be shamed.
• Perpetrators of family violence need help rather than blame.
• Poverty causes people to commit crimes, not character.
• All recreational drugs should be legalized.
• Addictive illegal drugs are not the root cause of the problems that people who use them have. They are only an indication of something else needing closer attention.
• Alcohol should be taxed more heavily to help reduce alcohol related problems.
• Pharmaceutical companies should be held accountable for the dependency difficulties people get into with some prescribed drugs.
• Animal testing of pharmaceutical drugs is unethical.
• Cars should be banned from city centers.
• Owners of vehicles that run on petrol or diesel should pay an emission tax.
• Increased use of public transport should be supported and encouraged by the state.
• Individual ownership of vehicles for transport in cities should be discouraged.
• A license to drive a vehicle should be much harder to get.
• Driverless cars are the way of the future.
• Everyone in cities benefits from more green spaces.
• Easily accessible green spaces should be part of any housing development.
• Accessibility to green spaces improves people's mental health.
• All urban development should be 'green': fully sustainable.
• Affordable, secure, healthy housing should be available to all.
• The countries, the cities, and the houses we live in shape our lives. 
• Acceptance of equality and diversity is the only way forward for society.
• Diversity is more than mere tokenism.
• All people are equal, but some are more equal than others is a truth we need to accept.
• Opportunities are open for everybody. People just need to take them.
• Poverty is a state of mind that is outwardly expressed through low educational achievements and poor job choices.
• Being poor is not a crime, a character flaw, or a judgment from God.
• Monetary wealth always polarizes people.
• Wealth should never be used as a measure of a person's worth.
• Becoming more and more wealthy through exploitative means should not be allowed. 
• Paying taxes is necessary for society to function.
• Tax avoidance is unethical.
• Taxes should be used to benefit those who need it most.
• Tax breaks should only be given to companies or people who genuinely need them.
• Those who are more wealthy should pay more tax.
• How land is used should be decided in conjunction with those who will be impacted, not just the land owner.
• Land is a finite resource and should be treated accordingly.
• Land use practices that are known, and proven, to cause long term harm to the environment should be banned.
• We all live in the world, therefore we all should have a say about how its resources are used.
• Deep-sea mining should be banned.
• Fracking does more harm than good.
• Global warming and deforestation go hand in hand. 
• Intensive and extensive mono-cropping is ultimately unsustainable.
• Eco-terrorism is justifiable.
• 'Green' industrial, agriculture and fishing practices are the only way to slow the damage we are doing to our planet.
• Eco-fascism is a misguided attempt to preserve a white, privileged existence. (See this UK Guardian article for more:  Eco-fascists and the ugly fight for 'our way of life' as the environment disintegrates )
• All animals deserve to be treated with respect.
• Colonizing space is a possible answer to our growing environmental challenges.

• Artists are as essential to society's health and well-being as any other service we depend on: for instance law and order, medical ...
• Public art humanizes our cities. It shows us who we are.
• Works of art that were stolen from their owners in times of war should be returned.
• Artifacts that have been removed from their places and  countries of origin should be returned.
• The role of street art is to provoke.
• Admissions to city museums and art galleries should be free.
• Cultural appropriation in art, music, or any other sphere, is theft.
• Good art is always controversial.
• The elderly have the right to expect to be fully cared for.
• Ageism is a mark of an intolerant, arrogant society.
• We need to make it easier for families to support their elderly members in their own homes.
• Everyone who needs it should have access to good child care for their children.
• Segregation through race, gender, intellectual capacity, physical abilities, health, religion, wealth ... supports and underlines a tiered society.
• Political correctness has gone mad.
• Some day we will look back and wonder why it took so long, and why we had to go through so much strife to establish that same sex couples should have the same rights as heterosexual couples.
• Any form of extremism is dangerous.
• Racial profiling should be illegal.
• Using quota systems to manage people is demeaning.
• School violence would be much less if guns were not so freely available.
• School violence is a symptom of a very sick society.
• Hate crimes are often committed for revenge.
• 'An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth' is never justifiable.
• There should be far greater gun control.
• Controlling who owns guns will not stop crime.
• The gentrification of our cities is to blame for the increased cost of housing and growing homelessness.
• State censorship is justified.
• Sensible censorship is about protecting vulnerable people from material which could cause them harm.
• Censorship on the internet is impossible.
• Beauty in a person is a state of mind or being, not necessarily something physical.
• Our concepts of beauty are determined by popular culture.
• An aging body can be beautiful.
• Fashion is to blame for the rise of eating disorders among young people.
• Being a slave to fashion is foolish.
• Fashion is creative, artistic and fun.
• Fashion celebrates the joy of looking and feeling good.
• A woman dresses well to make other women envious.
• Fashion that inhibits movement is ridiculous.
• Wearing a piece of conspicuously brand-labelled clothing is a signal that the wearer wants to be identified as sharing the brand's values and image.
• Clothing choices speak louder than words.
• Capital punishment, or the death penalty, is barbaric and should be banned.
• Voting rights should be automatically granted to anyone of voting age who is of sound mind and a citizen.
• Voting should be compulsory for everyone who is entitled to vote.
• People should be allowed to follow whatever religious belief they choose.
• Karl Marx said, religion is the opiate of the masses. How is that true?
• Being a good person and being a religious person can be two very different things.
• Can a religion and a cult be one and the same?
• Religious practices that physically or psychologically harm a person should be banned.
• Once they are old enough, children from religious families should have the freedom to make their own decision about whether or not they want to follow in their family's footsteps.

• Stalking, either physically or online, is harassment and those who do it should be prosecuted.
• Where and when does the right to privacy stop?
• How can we protect our privacy, and use social media? 
• Unauthorized collection and use of personal data is illegal. Offenders, regardless of who they are,  should be prosecuted and those who profit from the use of illegally collected data should forfeit their gains. (As an example see this Wikipedia overview of the  2018  Facebook–Cambridge Analytica data scandal  where millions of Facebook users had their personal data used for political advertising.)
• Government control of the media is sometimes necessary.
• Society is controlled by whoever controls our media.
• There is no such thing as unbiased news coverage.
• If media companies have a particular  political and/or commercial interest it   should be transparent.
• Anybody or organization who either generates or passes on fake news should be prosecuted.
• Fake news and conspiracy theories feed on fear.
• Some conspiracy theories are true.
• Some news seems so shocking it can't be true.
• We are wrong to be fearful about artificial intelligence. 
• Joseph Goebbels, minister of propaganda for the German Third Reich under Adolf Hitler,  famously said: “If you repeat a lie often enough, it becomes the truth.” Is this true?
• We are less able to judge if what we read online is fake news or not because the way we get our news has changed in the digital age. Through the use of algorithms information is filtered and we are shown articles reflecting the existing opinions of our own and our friends. How true is this?
• Only foolish people fall for online scams and get-rich quick schemes.
• Provocative headlines can be an effective way to provoke interest.
• When do advertising campaigns step over the line and become offensive?
• Advertising companies feed on people's weaknesses.
• Nationalism creates 'them and us' scenarios.
• We need to think and cooperate on a global scale.
• Separatism is seldom successful.
• Confusing tolerating hate speech with freedom of speech or the right to speak is wrong.
• Freedom of speech comes with responsibility.
• Empathy as well as action are needed to change the injustices of the world.
• Religion has no place in the government of a country.
• A country gets the government and leadership it deserves.
• Sometimes personal ethics and morals need to be put aside for the good of the community.
• Putting people in jail is neither humane nor sustainable.
• Electronic surveillance is violation of human rights.
• Torture is never justified.
• War is a barbaric answer to a problem between countries.

If you need more topic ideas ...

Try  Questia -  You'll find  an enormous list of controversial topics in alphabetical order , starting with Abortion and ending with Year-round school . Each topic area has an overview and an associated book or article list. It's an extremely thorough compilation and an excellent resource. 

Get help with writing, rehearsing and more

Should you need it there is  comprehensive on-site help  for every aspect of preparing, rehearsing and help to tame any anxiety you may be feeling about making a presentation . (There's enough here to make you very happy with the end result! ☺)

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Controversial Speech Topics

This page provides tips for choosing controversial speech topics, along with guidelines for putting together a great presentation.

If you want to jump STRAIGHT to a list of topics , you can find them here .

• How to Find a Controversial Speech Topic that You Like
• How to Start a Speech on a Controversial Topic
• The Patterns to Use in Preparing a Controversial Speech Presentation 
• How to Develop Your Point of View on a Controversial Topic

Finding the Perfect Topic for YOU!

When browsing a list of potential topic ideas, ask yourself what strong concerns, beliefs or opinions you have on each one.

To put it bluntly - if you don't care either way about a topic, don't bother choosing it!

The purpose of speaking on a controversial subject is to take a position and persuade your audience members that YOUR view on the topic is either the

• the most important
• the most logical or

In other words, make them see that your view is the one they should adopt.

To do this, you need to speak with passion, from the heart. Your audience will easily be able to tell if your own point of view on the subject is wishy-washy. By the same token, the audience will recognize genuine passion when the members hear it - and emotion can be very compelling!

Make Your Point of View Known in Your Opening Statement

Write your topic statement simply and clearly. For example, Attorney-Client Privilege should be abolished or Why Children Shouldn't Use Cell Phones. These statements leave no doubt as to what your view on the topic is.

Types of Arguments for Controversial Speech Topics

The following discussion lists several good ideas for controversial speech topics.

1. Arguments of fact deal with causal relationships, future predictions or questions of history. These arguments are about what is or is not - what is right or untrue.

For example:

• Feminism is still relevant today
• Searching student lockers lowers violence in school
• Alcohol is more harmful to society than marijuana (see sample speech)

2. Arguments of value ask individuals to make a choice on whether we should or shouldn't do something. They tend to involve judgment and often bring out people's personal tastes and prejudices. Some examples are

• Schools should search student's lockers
• Animal research is morally wrong
• It's unethical for doctors to take part in assisted suicide

3. Arguments of policy concern rules or laws that we are required to follow. Some examples of this are

• Polygamy should not be legal
• Schools should not be allowed to teach creationism
• Use of performance-enhancing drugs by athletes should be permitted

For a powerful, controversial speech, pick one of the above types of arguments (also known as 'claims') and stick with it throughout your presentation.

If you need help choosing a controversial speech topic, check out our  list of good topics or brainstorm more subjects to take a firm stand on.

Controversial Speech Topics Patterns

1. There's the Pro-Con Pattern, which is similar to a compare/contrast format. Give an intro such as "I am in favor of condoms being offered in schools," then give your con arguments (sexual activity will rise, etc.), next to your pro arguments (encourages safe sex, cuts down on STD's, etc.) and lastly, your conclusion.

2. The Effect-Cause Pattern is when the body of your speech contains a description of effects, and then the cause is revealed. I compare this pattern to the TV show Law and Order: CI (Criminal Intent). First, you are shown the murder (effect) and murderer... and then the rest of the show is about what caused the crime to happen.

3. The Problem-Solution Pattern is somewhat like the Effect-Cause pattern. You would use this pattern when your speech is about a problem that is new to your audience members. You need to spend a lot of time developing the problem and less time would be devoted to the solution.

4. The Elimination Pattern is used for topics with which your audience is already familiar. Examples would be abortion issues, legalization of marijuana, etc. Using this pattern, you need to spend more time on trying to eliminate worn out, not-so-great solutions in favor of the BEST solution (yours!).

Cover Your Back!

When creating a speech centered on a controversial topic, it's essential to develop supporting arguments: find examples, statistics, quotes, etc. and be diligent in documenting and citing your references.

Be very sure to research opposing opinions, beliefs, arguments, morals and policies for your topic. Being ready for any opposition you may face is essential. Deal with it skillfully, and you will enhance your position and very likely bring even more of the audience around to your way of thinking.

You may feel a little apprehensive when deciding on which controversial speech topics you will base your presentation. But expressing your beliefs and (hopefully) convincing audience members that your view is valid and worthy of their support are rewards well worth working for!

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