persuasive speech topics college students

150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics for Students in 2024

April 1, 2024

Do you know that moment in your favorite film, when the soundtrack begins to swell and the main character stands up and delivers a speech so rousing, so impassioned, it has the entire room either weeping or cheering by the time it concludes? What distinguishes the effectiveness of such a speech is not only the protagonist’s stellar delivery but also the compelling nature of the subject matter at hand. Choosing an effective persuasive speech topic is essential for guaranteeing that your future speech or essay is as moving as these . If this sounds like a tall order, have no fear. Below you’ll find a list of some of the best and most interesting persuasive speech topics for high school students to tackle, from the playful (“Pets for President”) to the serious (“Should We Stop AI from Replacing Human Workers?”).

And if you’re craving more inspiration, feel free to check out this list of Great Debate Topics , which can be used to generate further ideas.

What is a Good Persuasive Speech?

Before we get to the list, we must address the question on everyone’s minds: what is a persuasive speech, and what the heck makes for a good persuasive speech topic? A persuasive speech is a speech that aims to convince its listeners of a particular point of view . At the heart of each persuasive speech is a central conflict . Note: The persuasive speech stands in contrast to a simple informative speech, which is intended purely to convey information. (I.e., an informative speech topic might read: “The History of Making One’s Bed,” while a persuasive speech topic would be: “Why Making One’s Bed is a Waste of Time”—understand?)

And lest you think that persuasive speeches are simply assigned by your teachers as a particularly cruel form of torture, remember that practicing your oratory skills will benefit you in all areas of life—from job interviews, to business negotiations, to your future college career in public policy or international relations . Knowing how to use your voice to enact meaningful change is a valuable skill that can empower you to make a difference in the world.

Components of a Great Persuasive Speech Topic

The ideal persuasive speech topic will inspire the audience to action via both logical arguments and emotional appeals. As such, we can summarize the question “what makes a good persuasive speech topic?” by saying that the topic must possess the following qualities:

• Timeliness and Relevance . Great persuasive speech topics grapple with a contemporary issue that is meaningful to the listener at hand. The topic might be a current news item, or it might be a long-standing social issue. In either case, the topic should be one with real-world implications.
• Complexity . A fruitful persuasive speech topic will have many facets. Topics that are controversial, with some gray area, lend themselves to a high degree of critical thinking. They also offer the speaker an opportunity to consider and refute all counterarguments before making a compelling case for his or her own position.
• Evidence . You want to be able to back up your argument with clear evidence from reputable sources (i.e., not your best friend or dog). The more evidence and data you can gather, the more sound your position will be. In addition, your audience will be more inclined to trust you.
• Personal Connection. Do you feel passionately about the topic you’ve chosen? If not, it may be time to go back to the drawing board. This does not mean you have to support the side you choose; sometimes, arguing for the opposing side of what you personally believe can be an effective exercise in building empathy and perspective. Either way, though, the key is to select a topic that you care deeply about. Your passion will be infectious to the audience.

150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics

• Should tech companies regulate the development of AI systems and automation to protect humans’ jobs?
• Should we limit screen time for children?
• Is it ethical for AI models like Dall-E to train themselves on artists’ work without the artists’ permission?
• Should the government regulate the use of personal drones?
• Is mass surveillance ethical? Does its threat to civil liberties outweigh its benefits?
• Are virtual reality experiences a valuable educational tool?
• Do the positive effects of powerful AI systems outweigh the risks?
• Do voice assistants like Siri and Alexa invade individuals’ privacy?
• Are cell phone bans in the classroom effective for improving student learning?
• Does the use of facial recognition technology in public violate individuals’ privacy?
• Should students be allowed to use ChatGPT and other AI tools for writing assignments?
• Should AI-generated art be allowed in art shows or contests?
• Who holds responsibility for accidents caused by self-driving cars: the driver or the car company?

Business and Economy

• Should we do away with the minimum wage? Why or why not?
• Is it ethical for companies to use unpaid internships as a source of labor?
• Does the gig economy benefit or harm workers?
• Is capitalism the best economic system?
• Is it ethical for companies to use sweatshops in developing countries?
• Should the government provide free healthcare for all citizens?
• Should the government regulate prices on pharmaceutical drugs?
• Should the government enact a universal base income?
• Should customers be required to tip a minimum amount in order to ensure food service workers make a living wage?
• Should someone’s tattoos or personal appearance factor into the hiring process?
• Should US workers have more vacation time?
• Is big game hunting beneficial for local communities?
• Should we legalize euthanasia?
• Is it ethical to use animals for medical research?
• Is it ethical to allow access to experimental treatments for terminally ill patients?
• Should we allow genetic engineering in humans?
• Is the death penalty obsolete?
• Should we allow the cloning of humans?
• Is it ethical to allow performance-enhancing drugs in sports?
• Should embryonic stem cell collection be allowed?
• Do frozen IVF embryos have rights?
• Should state and federal investigators be allowed to use DNA from genealogy databases?
• Should the government limit how many children a couple can have?
• Is spanking children an acceptable form of discipline?
• Should we allow parents to choose their children’s physical attributes through genetic engineering?
• Should we require parents to vaccinate their children?
• Should we require companies to give mandatory paternal and maternal leave?
• Should children be allowed to watch violent movies and video games?
• Should parents allow their teenagers to drink before they turn 21?
• Should the government provide childcare?
• Should telling your children about Santa Claus be considered lying?
• Should one parent stay home?
• Should parental consent be required for minors to receive birth control?
• Is it an invasion of privacy for parents to post photographs of their children on social media?

Social Media

• Should social media platforms ban political ads?
• Do the benefits of social media outweigh the downsides?
• Should the government hold social media companies responsible for hate speech on their platforms?
• Is social media making us more or less social?
• Do platforms like TikTok exacerbate mental health issues in teens?
• Should the government regulate social media to protect citizens’ privacy?
• Is it right for parents to monitor their children’s social media accounts?
• Should social media companies enact a minimum user age restriction?
• Should we require social media companies to protect user data?
• Should we hold social media companies responsible for cyberbullying?
• Should schools ban the use of social media from their networks?
• Should we be allowed to record others without their consent?
• Do online crime sleuths help or hurt criminal investigations?

Education – Persuasive Speech Topics 

• Would trade schools and other forms of vocational training benefit a greater number of students than traditional institutions of higher education?
• Should colleges use standardized testing in their admissions processes?
• Is forcing students to say the Pledge a violation of their right to freedom of speech?
• Should school districts offer bilingual education programs for non-native speakers?
• Should schools do away with their physical education requirements?
• Should schools incorporate a remote learning option into their curriculum?
• Should we allow school libraries to ban certain books?
• Should we remove historical figures who owned slaves from school textbooks and other educational materials?
• Should we have mixed-level classrooms or divide students according to ability?
• Should grading on a curve be allowed?
• Should graphic novels be considered literature?
• Should all students have to take financial literacy classes before graduating?
• Should colleges pay student athletes?
• Should we ban violent contact sports like boxing and MMA?
• Should sports leagues require professional athletes to stand during the national anthem?
• Should sports teams ban players like Kyrie Irving when they spread misinformation or hate speech?
• Should high schools require their athletes to maintain a certain GPA?
• Should the Olympic committee allow transgender athletes to compete?
• Should high schools ban football due to its safety risks to players?
• Should all high school students be required to play a team sport?
• Should sports teams be mixed instead of single-gender?
• Should there be different athletic standards for men and women?
• In which renewable energy option would the US do best to invest?
• Should the US prioritize space exploration over domestic initiatives?
• Should companies with a high carbon footprint be punished?
• Should the FDA ban GMOs?
• Would the world be a safer place without nuclear weapons?
• Does AI pose a greater threat to humanity than it does the potential for advancement?
• Who holds the most responsibility for mitigating climate change: individuals or corporations?
• Should we be allowed to resurrect extinct species?
• Are cancer screening programs ethical?

Social Issues – Persuasive Speech Topics

• College education: should the government make it free for all?
• Should we provide free healthcare for undocumented immigrants?
• Is physician-assisted suicide morally justifiable?
• Does social media have a negative impact on democracy?
• Does cancel culture impede free speech?
• Does affirmative action help or hinder minority groups in the workplace?
• Should we hold public figures and celebrities to a higher standard of morality?
• Should abortion be an issue that is decided at the federal or state level?
• Should the sex offender registry be available to the public?
• Should undocumented immigrants have a path to amnesty?
• Do syringe services programs reduce or increase harmful behaviors?
• Should there be a statute of limitations?
• Should those who are convicted of a crime be required to report their criminal history on job and housing applications?

Politics and Government

• Is the Electoral College still an effective way to elect the President of the US?
• Should we allow judges to serve on the Supreme Court indefinitely?
• Should the US establish a national gun registry?
• Countries like Israel and China require all citizens to serve in the military. Is this a good or bad policy?
• Should the police force require all its officers to wear body cameras while on duty?
• Should the US invest in the development of clean meat as a sustainable protein source?
• Should the US adopt ranked-choice voting?
• Should institutions that profited from slavery provide reparations?
• Should the government return land to Native American tribes?
• Should there be term limits for representatives and senators?
• Should there be an age limit for presidential candidates?
• Should women be allowed in special forces units?

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics

• Should schools have uniforms?
• Can video games improve problem-solving skills?
• Are online classes as effective as in-person classes?
• Should companies implement a four-day work week?
• Co-ed learning versus single-sex: which is more effective?
• Should the school day start later?
• Is homework an effective teaching tool?
• Are electric cars really better for the environment?
• Should schools require all students to study a foreign language?
• Do professional athletes get paid too much money?

Fun Persuasive Speech Topics

• Should we allow pets to run for public office?
• Does pineapple belong on pizza?
• Would students benefit from schools swapping out desks with more comfortable seating arrangements (i.e., bean bag chairs and couches)?
• Is procrastination the key to success?
• Should Americans adopt British accents to sound more intelligent?
• The age-old dilemma: cats or dogs?
• Should meme creators receive royalties when their memes go viral?
• Should there be a minimum drinking age for coffee?
• Are people who make their beds every day more successful than those who don’t?

Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics

• Is the movie ranking system an effective way to evaluate the appropriateness of films?
• Should the government place a “health tax” on junk food?
• Is it ethical to create artificial life forms that are capable of complex emotions?
• Should parents let children choose their own names?
• Creating clones of ourselves to serve as organ donors: ethical or not?
• Is it ethical to engineer humans to be better and more optimized than nature intended?
• Should we adopt a universal language to communicate with people from all countries?
• Should there be a penalty for people who don’t vote?
• Should calories be printed on menus?
• Does tourism positively or negatively impact local communities?
• When used by non-Natives, are dreamcatchers cultural appropriation?
• Should companies require their employees to specify pronouns in their signature line?
• Should commercial fishing be banned?
• Are cemeteries sustainable?
• Is it okay to change the race, culture, and/or gender of historical figures in movies or TV shows?

I’ve Chosen My Topic, Now What?

Once you’ve selected your topic, it’s time to get to work crafting your argument. Preparation for a persuasive speech or essay involves some key steps, which we’ve outlined for you below.

How to Create a Successful Persuasive Speech, Step by Step

• Research your topic. Read widely and smartly. Stick to credible sources, such as peer-reviewed articles, published books, government reports, textbooks, and news articles. The right sources and data will be necessary to help you establish your authority. As you go, take notes on the details and nuances of your topic as well as potential counterarguments. Research the counterarguments, too.
• Choose an angle. For example, if you chose the topic “Should we limit screen time for children?” your speech should come down firmly on one side of that debate. If your topic is frequently debated, such as abortion, capital punishment, gun control, social media, etc. try to find a niche angle or new research. For example, instead of “Should abortion be legal?” you might consider “Should you be able to order abortion pills online?” Another example: “Should the death penalty be banned?” might become “How long is it ethical for someone to stay on death row?” If you do some digging, even the most cliche topics have incredibly interesting and relatively unexplored sub-topics.
• Create an outline. Your outline should include an introduction with a thesis statement, a body that uses evidence to elaborate and support your position while refuting any counterarguments, and a conclusion. The conclusion will both summarize the points made earlier and serve as your final chance to persuade your audience.
• Write your speech. Use your outline to help you as well as the data you’ve collected. Remember: this is not dry writing; this writing has a point of view, and that point of view is yours . Accordingly, use anecdotes and examples to back up your argument. The essential components of this speech are logos (logic), ethos (credibility), and pathos (emotion) . The ideal speech will use all three of these functions to engage the audience.

How to Practice and Deliver a Persuasive Speech

• Talk to yourself in the mirror, record yourself, and/or hold a practice speech for family or friends. If you’ll be using visual cues, a slide deck, or notecards, practice incorporating them seamlessly into your speech. You should practice until your speech feels very familiar, at least 5-10 times.
• Practice body language. Are you making eye contact with your audience, or looking at the ground? Crossing your arms over your chest or walking back and forth across the room? Playing with your hair, cracking your knuckles, or picking at your clothes? Practicing what to do with your body, face, and hands will help you feel more confident on speech day.
• Take it slow. It’s common to talk quickly while delivering a speech—most of us want to get it over with! However, your audience will be able to connect with you much more effectively if you speak at a moderate pace, breathe, and pause when appropriate.
• Give yourself grace. How you recover from a mistake is much more important than the mistake itself. Typically, the best approach is to good-naturedly shrug off a blip and move on. 99% of the time, your audience won’t even notice!

Good Persuasive Speech Topics—Final Thoughts

The art of persuasive speaking is a tricky one, but the tips and tricks laid out here will help you craft a compelling argument that will sway even the most dubious audience to your side. Mastering this art takes both time and practice, so don’t fret if it doesn’t come to you right away. Remember to draw upon your sources, speak with authority, and have fun. Once you have the skill of persuasive speaking down, go out there and use your voice to impact change!

Looking for some hot-button topics in college admissions? You might consider checking out the following:

• Do Colleges Look at Social Media?
• Should I Apply Test-Optional to College?
• Should I Waive My Right to See Letters of Recommendation?
• Should I Use the Common App Additional Information Section?
• High School Success

Lauren Green

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

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112 Persuasive Speech Topics That Are Actually Engaging

What’s covered:, how to pick an awesome persuasive speech topic, 112 engaging persuasive speech topics, tips for preparing your persuasive speech.

Writing a stellar persuasive speech requires a carefully crafted argument that will resonate with your audience to sway them to your side. This feat can be challenging to accomplish, but an engaging, thought-provoking speech topic is an excellent place to start.

When it comes time to select a topic for your persuasive speech, you may feel overwhelmed by all the options to choose from—or your brain may be drawing a completely blank slate. If you’re having trouble thinking of the perfect topic, don’t worry. We’re here to help!

In this post, we’re sharing how to choose the perfect persuasive speech topic and tips to prepare for your speech. Plus, you’ll find 112 persuasive speech topics that you can take directly from us or use as creative inspiration for your own ideas!

Choose Something You’re Passionate About

It’s much easier to write, research, and deliver a speech about a cause you care about. Even if it’s challenging to find a topic that completely sparks your interest, try to choose a topic that aligns with your passions.

However, keep in mind that not everyone has the same interests as you. Try to choose a general topic to grab the attention of the majority of your audience, but one that’s specific enough to keep them engaged.

For example, suppose you’re giving a persuasive speech about book censorship. In that case, it’s probably too niche to talk about why “To Kill a Mockingbird” shouldn’t be censored (even if it’s your favorite book), and it’s too broad to talk about media censorship in general.

Steer Clear of Cliches

Have you already heard a persuasive speech topic presented dozens of times? If so, it’s probably not an excellent choice for your speech—even if it’s an issue you’re incredibly passionate about.

Although polarizing topics like abortion and climate control are important to discuss, they aren’t great persuasive speech topics. Most people have already formed an opinion on these topics, which will either cause them to tune out or have a negative impression of your speech.

Instead, choose topics that are fresh, unique, and new. If your audience has never heard your idea presented before, they will be more open to your argument and engaged in your speech.

Have a Clear Side of Opposition

For a persuasive speech to be engaging, there must be a clear side of opposition. To help determine the arguability of your topic, ask yourself: “If I presented my viewpoint on this topic to a group of peers, would someone disagree with me?” If the answer is yes, then you’ve chosen a great topic!

Now that we’ve laid the groundwork for what it takes to choose a great persuasive speech topic, here are over one hundred options for you to choose from.

• Should high school athletes get tested for steroids?
• Should schools be required to have physical education courses?
• Should sports grades in school depend on things like athletic ability?
• What sport should be added to or removed from the Olympics?
• Should college athletes be able to make money off of their merchandise?
• Should sports teams be able to recruit young athletes without a college degree?
• Should we consider video gamers as professional athletes?
• Is cheerleading considered a sport?
• Should parents allow their kids to play contact sports?
• Should professional female athletes be paid the same as professional male athletes?
• Should college be free at the undergraduate level?
• Is the traditional college experience obsolete?
• Should you choose a major based on your interests or your potential salary?
• Should high school students have to meet a required number of service hours before graduating?
• Should teachers earn more or less based on how their students perform on standardized tests?
• Are private high schools more effective than public high schools?
• Should there be a minimum number of attendance days required to graduate?
• Are GPAs harmful or helpful?
• Should schools be required to teach about standardized testing?
• Should Greek Life be banned in the United States?
• Should schools offer science classes explicitly about mental health?
• Should students be able to bring their cell phones to school?
• Should all public restrooms be all-gender?
• Should undocumented immigrants have the same employment and education opportunities as citizens?
• Should everyone be paid a living wage regardless of their employment status?
• Should supremacist groups be able to hold public events?
• Should guns be allowed in public places?
• Should the national drinking age be lowered?
• Should prisoners be allowed to vote?
• Should the government raise or lower the retirement age?
• Should the government be able to control the population?
• Is the death penalty ethical?

Environment

• Should stores charge customers for plastic bags?
• Should breeding animals (dogs, cats, etc.) be illegal?
• Is it okay to have exotic animals as pets?
• Should people be fined for not recycling?
• Should compost bins become mandatory for restaurants?
• Should electric vehicles have their own transportation infrastructure?
• Would heavier fining policies reduce corporations’ emissions?
• Should hunting be encouraged or illegal?
• Should reusable diapers replace disposable diapers?

Science & Technology

• Is paper media more reliable than digital news sources?
• Should automated/self-driving cars be legalized?
• Should schools be required to provide laptops to all students?
• Should software companies be able to have pre-downloaded programs and applications on devices?
• Should drones be allowed in military warfare?
• Should scientists invest more or less money into cancer research?
• Should cloning be illegal?
• Should societies colonize other planets?
• Should there be legal oversight over the development of technology?

Social Media

• Should there be an age limit on social media?
• Should cyberbullying have the same repercussions as in-person bullying?
• Are online relationships as valuable as in-person relationships?
• Does “cancel culture” have a positive or negative impact on societies?
• Are social media platforms reliable information or news sources?
• Should social media be censored?
• Does social media create an unrealistic standard of beauty?
• Is regular social media usage damaging to real-life interactions?
• Is social media distorting democracy?
• How many branches of government should there be?
• Who is the best/worst president of all time?
• How long should judges serve in the U.S. Supreme Court?
• Should a more significant portion of the U.S. budget be contributed towards education?
• Should the government invest in rapid transcontinental transportation infrastructure?
• Should airport screening be more or less stringent?
• Should the electoral college be dismantled?
• Should the U.S. have open borders?
• Should the government spend more or less money on space exploration?
• Should students sing Christmas carols, say the pledge of allegiance, or perform other tangentially religious activities?
• Should nuns and priests become genderless roles?
• Should schools and other public buildings have prayer rooms?
• Should animal sacrifice be legal if it occurs in a religious context?
• Should countries be allowed to impose a national religion on their citizens?
• Should the church be separated from the state?
• Does freedom of religion positively or negatively affect societies?

Parenting & Family

• Is it better to have children at a younger or older age?
• Is it better for children to go to daycare or stay home with their parents?
• Does birth order affect personality?
• Should parents or the school system teach their kids about sex?
• Are family traditions important?
• Should parents smoke or drink around young children?
• Should “spanking” children be illegal?
• Should parents use swear words in front of their children?
• Should parents allow their children to play violent video games?

Entertainment

• Should all actors be paid the same regardless of gender or ethnicity?
• Should all award shows be based on popular vote?
• Who should be responsible for paying taxes on prize money, the game show staff or the contestants?
• Should movies and television shows have ethnicity and gender quotas?
• Should newspapers and magazines move to a completely online format?
• Should streaming services like Netflix and Hulu be free for students?
• Is the movie rating system still effective?
• Should celebrities have more privacy rights?

Arts & Humanities

• Are libraries becoming obsolete?
• Should all schools have mandatory art or music courses in their curriculum?
• Should offensive language be censored from classic literary works?
• Is it ethical for museums to keep indigenous artifacts?
• Should digital designs be considered an art form? 
• Should abstract art be considered an art form?
• Is music therapy effective?
• Should tattoos be regarded as “professional dress” for work?
• Should schools place greater emphasis on the arts programs?
• Should euthanasia be allowed in hospitals and other clinical settings?
• Should the government support and implement universal healthcare?
• Would obesity rates lower if the government intervened to make healthy foods more affordable?
• Should teenagers be given access to birth control pills without parental consent?
• Should food allergies be considered a disease?
• Should health insurance cover homeopathic medicine?
• Is using painkillers healthy?
• Should genetically modified foods be banned?
• Should there be a tax on unhealthy foods?
• Should tobacco products be banned from the country?
• Should the birth control pill be free for everyone?

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

Do Your Research

A great persuasive speech is supported with plenty of well-researched facts and evidence. So before you begin the writing process, research both sides of the topic you’re presenting in-depth to gain a well-rounded perspective of the topic.

Understand Your Audience

It’s critical to understand your audience to deliver a great persuasive speech. After all, you are trying to convince them that your viewpoint is correct. Before writing your speech, consider the facts and information that your audience may already know, and think about the beliefs and concerns they may have about your topic. Then, address these concerns in your speech, and be mindful to include fresh, new information.

Have Someone Read Your Speech

Once you have finished writing your speech, have someone read it to check for areas of strength and improvement. You can use CollegeVine’s free essay review tool to get feedback on your speech from a peer!

Practice Makes Perfect

After completing your final draft, the key to success is to practice. Present your speech out loud in front of a mirror, your family, friends, and basically, anyone who will listen. Not only will the feedback of others help you to make your speech better, but you’ll become more confident in your presentation skills and may even be able to commit your speech to memory.

Hopefully, these ideas have inspired you to write a powerful, unique persuasive speech. With the perfect topic, plenty of practice, and a boost of self-confidence, we know you’ll impress your audience with a remarkable speech!

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100 Persuasive Speech Topics for Students

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There is a small but important difference between planning a persuasive speech and writing a persuasive essay. First, if you are planning a persuasive speech, you should think about a topic that can engage your audience. For this reason, you may want to consider a few topics before settling on the one that allows you to be more descriptive and entertaining.

Another important factor when picking a persuasive speech topic is to choose one that can provoke your audience. If you stir up a little emotion in your audience members, you'll keep their attention. The list below is provided to help you brainstorm. Choose a topic from this list or use the list to generate an idea of your own.

• Studying martial arts is good for mind and health.
• Competitive sports can teach us about life.
• Reality shows are exploiting people.
• Community service should be a graduation requirement for all high school students.
• The characteristics that make a person a hero.
• It's important to grow things in a garden.
• Violent video games are dangerous.
• Lyrics in a song can impact our lives.
• Traveling and studying abroad are positive experiences.
• Journal writing is therapeutic.
• You should spend time with your grandparents.
• A laptop is better than a tablet.
• Religion and science can go hand in hand.
• School uniforms are good.
• All-female colleges and all-male colleges are bad.
• Multiple choice tests are better than essay tests .
• We should not spend money on space exploration.
• Open-book tests are as effective as closed-book tests.
• Security cameras keep us safer.
• Parents should have access to students' grades.
• Small classes are better than big classes.
• You need to start saving for retirement now.
• Credit cards are harmful to college students.
• We should have a royal family.
• We should protect endangered animals.
• Texting while driving is dangerous.
• You can write a novel.
• Recycling should be required in the U.S.
• State colleges are better than private colleges.
• Private colleges are better than state colleges.
• We should do away with penny coins.
• Fast food containers hurt the environment.
• Plastic straws are harmful to the environment.
• You can eat and enjoy healthy snacks.
• You can become a millionaire.
• Dogs are better pets than cats.
• You should own a bird.
• It's unethical to keep birds in cages.
• Liberal arts degrees prepare graduates to be better workers than other degrees.
• Hunting animals should be banned.
• Football is a dangerous sport.
• School days should start later.
• Night school is better than day school.
• Technical training is better than a college degree.
• Immigration laws should be more lenient.
• Students should be able to choose their schools.
• Everyone should learn to play a musical instrument.
• Grass lawns should be prohibited.
• Sharks should be protected.
• We should do away with cars and go back to horse and carriage for transportation.
• We should use more wind power.
• We should pay more taxes.
• We should do away with taxes.
• Teachers should be tested like students.
• We should not interfere in the affairs of other countries.
• Every student should join a club.
• Homeschooling is better than traditional schooling.
• People should stay married for life.
• Smoking in public should be illegal.
• College students should live on campus .
• Parents should let students fail.
• Giving to charity is good.
• Education makes us happier people.
• T​he ​ death penalty should be outlawed.
• Bigfoot is real.
• We should increase train travel to save the environment.
• We should read more classic books.
• Fame is bad for young children.
• Athletes should stay loyal to teams.
• We should reform our prisons.
• Juvenile offenders should not go to boot camps.
• Abraham Lincoln was the best president.
• Abraham Lincoln gets too much credit.
• Students should be allowed to have cell phones in elementary, middle, and high school.
• College student-athletes should be paid for playing.
• Elderly citizens on fixed income should receive free public transportation.
• Colleges and universities should be free to attend.
• All American citizens should complete one year of community service.
• Students should be required to take Spanish classes.
• Every student should be required to learn at least one foreign language .
• Marijuana should be legal for recreational use nationwide.
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• High school students should be required to participate in at least one team sport.
• The drinking age in the U.S. should be 25.
• Replacing fossil fuels with cheaper alternative energy options should be mandated.
• Churches need to contribute their share of taxes.
• The Cuba embargo should be maintained by the U.S.
• America should replace income taxes with a nationwide flat tax.
• Once they reach the age of 18, all U.S. citizens should be automatically registered to vote .
• Doctor-assisted suicide should be legal.
• Spammers—people who bombard the internet with unsolicited email—should be banned from sending junk mail.
• Every automobile driver should be required to take a new driver's test every three years.
• Electroshock treatment is not a humane form of therapy.
• Global warming is not real.
• Single-parent adoption should be encouraged and promoted.
• Gun companies should be held accountable for gun crimes.
• Human cloning is not moral.
• Religion does not belong in public education.
• Juveniles should not be tried as adults.
• American workers should be guaranteed a three-day weekend by law.
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• persuasive speech topics for college

 310 persuasive speech topics for college

 60 education topics, 50 mental health....

By:  Susan Dugdale  

Can you engage, inform, and persuade?  Can you do all three at once?

That’s what a good persuasive speech does. It challenges an audience’s thinking or position on a topic or an issue, asks them to pause, and consider changing their minds.

There are 310 great persuasive speech topics for college students and/or their teachers here. 

• 50  Mental health persuasive speech topics
• 60 Education persuasive speech ideas  
• 50 Family themed persuasive speech topics
• 50 Friends persuasive speech topic suggestions
• 50  Animals/Pets themed persuasive topics
• 50 Society persuasive topic ideas

Plus, how to prepare a speech for a set time allowance and more about choosing a good topic and writing a great persuasive speech.

Each of them could make an excellent speech. Whether any of them do, or not, depends on a number of factors. The two main ones are you, and your audience.

What makes a persuasive speech topic good or interesting? (A very quick overview)

 A subject is right for you if:

• it is about something you are genuinely interested in or passionate about, and
• it is something you know your audience will relate to and it would be interesting, or beneficial, for them to know about.   

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 50 mental health persuasive speech topics

• that academic pressure causes anxiety and depression in college students
• that increased use of social media heightens anxiety about physical appearance
• that poverty and homelessness are often root causes of poor mental health
• that addictive behaviors are not a sign of poor character
• that binge drinking can mask depression
• that typical adolescent angst and teenage depression are not the same
• that self-harming is a cry for help
• that living in green cities improves mental health
• that seeking out positive news stories makes a difference
• that limiting the consumption of unfiltered social media helps mental well being
• that learning to objectively scale experiences helps keep them in perspective
• that understanding family patterns of behaviour is useful for understanding ourselves
• that being mentally unwell is not proof of incurable insanity
• that building resilience will guard against becoming mentally unwell
• that depression and anxiety, like flu, can be contagious
• that mental health is improved by some form of consistent exercise
• that everybody needs people who love and understand them
• that doing kind things for other people improves mental health
• that monitoring and changing how we habitually talk to ourselves can improve personal mental health
• that forgiving ourselves, in the same way we would a friend, for minor transgressions is healthy
• that loneliness contributes to mental health issues
• that genetic inheritance influences our mental health
• that eating healthily improves mental health
• that chronic bullying is a sign of poor mental health
• that the desire to fit in, to be the same as everyone else, is a sign of insecurity
• that mental strength is built by being eager to learn new things
• that mental strength is built by accepting responsibility for our thoughts and actions
• that mental strength is built by being willing to make mistakes and to be OK about that
• that mental strength is built by learning not to measure self-worth by comparing ourselves to others and by being OK about who we are
• that mental strength is built through being genuinely pleased for the success of others
• that we protect our mental health by knowing when and how to withdraw from situations and people that are not good for us
• that good mental health is supported by managing our own expectations of ourselves realistically
• that good mental health is something that has to be worked on everyday
• that good mental health requires us knowing our own strengths and weaknesses
• that there is not a ‘one size fits all’ model for good mental health because we are individuals
• that we have more mental health issues today, because we are more willing to openly discuss them than previous generations
• that asking for help when you know you need it is a sign of good mental health
• that learning to be happily alone is good for mental health
• that learning to set challenging realistic goals and working towards achieving them helps to build and sustain good mental health
• that being genuinely grateful for the good in our lives helps sustain robust mental health
• that re-framing problems as challenges or opportunities helps develop mental resilience
• that keeping a journal promotes good mental health
• that children need appropriate guidance and discipline to develop good mental health
• that the foundation for good mental health in adults is built in childhood
• that our primary influencers (parents, family, teachers, friends...) shape our mental health
• that mental and physical health are inseparable
• that mental health issues in children are not necessarily their parents fault
• that mental health in many sectors of our communities has been severely tested by the pandemic
• that mental health issues highlighted by the pandemic have forced us to think more creatively about how we meet them
• that we are often stronger mentally than we think we are     

 60 education persuasive speech topics

• that education should be free and freely available to whomever wants it
• that education systems should be free of bias
• that all children should have equal educational opportunities
• that any form of educational segregation (gender, racial, economic, religious...) should be unlawful
• that education is power
• that the control of a country’s education system should not be in the hands of politicians or a political party
• that a vocational education is more useful
• that the principal role of education is to teach individuals to be stable, strong members of society
• that a good education is one that teaches a person to take responsibility for themselves financially
• that there is no time in our lives when we are finished being educated
• that schools squash creativity and initiative
• that going to school and being educated are two different things
• that we learn more outside of a classroom than inside it
• that lack of formal education is the cause of societal unrest
• that our current school systems only really work for children from stable backgrounds
• that one good caring teacher can make all the difference
• that a teacher has the potential to influence their students’ lives enormously
• that being a teacher is a privileged position
• that teachers should be acknowledged and highly valued
• that the criteria for entering teacher training should be more discriminating
• that teacher training should be longer and more rigorous
• that teachers should be tested every five years in order to renew their license to teach
• that practical education is better than theoretical
• that the school leaving age should not be raised
• that the most important lessons at school happen in the playground
• that enrolling a child in any form of educational institution should be optional
• that parents should have the right to decide what classes their child attends
• that homeschooling does not hinder a child in any way
• that homeschooling is better for a child’s mental health
• that homeschooling is an option only economically advantaged parents can offer their children
• that parents who decide to homeschool their children need to feel OK about spending large chunks of time with them
• that psychological screening should be used to decide what school a student goes to
• that our grading systems fail to motivate students who struggle
• that separating a grade given for a piece of schoolwork from one’s self-esteem, or person, is difficult
• that grading is a frequently misunderstood, misapplied, inexact science
• that face to face real time learning is more effective than online learning
• that streaming (grouping students in classes according to their intellectual ability) should be banned
• that the principal function of education is to teach people to think rationally and creatively
• that failing at school is never the fault of the student
• that accelerate classes are elitist
• that the drive to get more students into higher education is misplaced
• that school uniforms should be compulsory
• that all children should have access to extra tuition as it is needed
• that an education system based on grades and examinations only benefits a small percentage of the children it is supposed to serve
• that online learning centers like the Kahn Academy   democratize education
• that teachers should receive financial rewards based on the success of their students
• that financial literacy should be given similar teaching time as reading and writing
• that socio-economic factors indicate the likelihood of future educational success
• that intellectual ability develops best in a safe secure stress-free environment
• that girls perform better academically in all girl schools
• that single-sex schooling slows the growth of appropriate social skills
• that children less than 10 years old should not given graded tests and ranked according to their scores
• that active community service should be part a school’s curriculum
• that meditation techniques should be taught in all schools
• that homework teaches time management and self discipline
• that developing imagination and creativity is equally important as developing stable work habits and good numeracy and literacy skills
• that smaller class sizes make it more likely a student will thrive
• that entrepreneurial skills should be encouraged and taught in schools
• that all high school students should be assigned or have access to a mentor
• that weapons of any sort should be banned from school campuses  

50 family themed persuasive speech topics

• that what makes a person a valued family member is not necessarily a blood tie
• that being one of many children in a family is an advantage
• that being part of a close multi-generational family has advantages for everyone
• that only children have more expected of them than children who have siblings
• that the eldest child in a family carries more responsibility than their siblings
• that the youngest child in the family is the most spoilt
• that the middle child in a family has the least favoured position
• that the order of the birth of siblings has a major impact on their psychological development
• that older parents are better equipped financially and emotionally to parent well
• that consciously choosing to have a child makes a positive difference to how a child is parented
• that it is better to be a loved child in a poor family than an unloved child in a wealthy one
• that parents should not compare their children
• that children should obey their parents
• that a child should not have everything they ask for
• that children should have regular age-appropriate household tasks to do
• that children have a right to privacy
• that children need to know they are loved and supported no matter what happens
• that parents should not bicker or fight in front of children
• that a child should never be disciplined by hitting
• that a parent needs to behave like a parent, not a friend, or a child
• that parental favouritism damages children
• that boys and girls should be treated equally
• that parents should attend classes on parenting before being permitted to have a child
• that babies and small children are better off at home with their mothers
• that designer children should be illegal
• that a woman should have the right to terminate a pregnancy
• that being a dad is not the same as being a father
• that parents divorcing causes significant issues for their children
• that home should always be a safe place
• that parents are responsible for how their children behave
• that a child will follow the pattern set by the adults around them
• that a teenage mother should be fully supported to look after her child and develop herself
• that taking a child into custody should be the very last resort
• that divorced parents should always talk respectfully about each other in front of their children
• that combining families when parents remarry should be handled with great care
• that children should never witness their parents fighting over them
• that children should never be played off against each other
• that parents set behavioral boundaries to keep their children safe
• that publicly shaming a child is cruel
• that parents do not always know best
• that a child has the right to expect that their parents take good care of them
• that children are never better than each other only different
• that the demands of family life and work need to be better balanced
• that children should not be made to kiss or hug people they do not want to
• that parents should make time to talk with and listened to their children
• that becoming an adopted relative: grandparent, aunt or uncle is a great way to enrich a child’s life
• that solo parents need non-judgmental practical support to help raise their children
• that baby sitters need to be old enough to be responsible as well as known to children before they are left with them
• that there is no such thing as a bad child
• that a bullied child needs compassionate support and understanding

50 persuasive speech topic ideas about friends

• that we all need a little help from our friends
• that everybody needs at least one best friend
• that a person’s life is influenced by childhood friends
• that we are defined by those who we are friends with
• that “liking” media posts is a form of friendship
• that a true friend is someone who knows your fears, vulnerabilities and weaknesses and loves you just the same
• that a friend is someone you know you can depend on
• that the most important relationship a person will ever have is an enduring friendship
• that true friendship transcends boundaries and overcomes obstacles
• that we need to be taught how to sustain healthy friendships
• that a friend helps a person keep themselves in check
• that a friend is someone we will accept the truth from
• that a real friend is not possessive about you
• that in a real friendship the amount of giving and taking are balanced
• that a real friend encourages the best in you, not the worst
• that mutual trust is the foundation of a good friendship
• that a friend is someone who has your best interests at heart
• that a friend does not gossip cruelly behind your back
• that a friend is someone you enjoy being with
• that a friend is someone who doesn’t make you feel anxious about saying or doing the wrong thing
• that boys are better at being friends than girls are
• that making new friends as we get older is harder
• that being a loyal friend does not mean agreeing with everything a friend says or does
• that getting help to break away from toxic friendships is a healthy thing to do
• that listening is vitally important in a friendship
• that a true friend will prioritize and rearrange their schedule in order to be with you
• that we need a variety of different types of people as good friends
• that to be a good friend we need to respect boundaries and beliefs
• that we can disagree with a friend and remain friends
• that being a friend does not mean accepting poor behavior towards yourself or others you care about
• that we achieve and become our best selves through the support and love of friends
• that learning to be a good friend is an essential life skill
• that friendships can come and go and that’s OK
• that a good friend will never publicly humiliate you
• that behaving in certain ways in order to attract or impress friends will not really work
• that a friend is someone who likes you for who you are, not for what you have, look like or do
• that apologizing sincerely for your part in a misunderstanding or falling out between friends is essential for the friendship to survive
• that learning to leave a friendship with grace when it no longer works is a valuable skill to have
• that men often have mates but few friends
• that our mental health improves when we have loving caring friends
• that a real friend is someone you can be away from for years and then resume a deep connection very quickly
• that there are degrees, and different types, of friendship and all of them are valuable
• that there can be no such thing as a platonic friendship between a man and a woman
• that having an imaginary friend as a small child is normal
• that a true friendship between an older person and a child is something to be encouraged
• that building genuine friendships with open hearts and minds breaks down prejudice
• that parents should intervene in their children’s friendships if they see them making poor choices or compromising themselves
• that there is a fine line between discussing a friend’s problems because you are concerned about them and discussing them because you find them amusing or good for shock value
• that comparison and competition between friends is inevitable
• that friendship is one of life’s essentials  

50 society themed persuasive speech ideas

• that to fit into the society you live in you must conform
• that society does not tolerate difference
• that society reflects the attitudes of the people who live in it
• that we can not live outside society
• that the influence of society is totally pervasive
• that change is the enemy of society
• that in a capitalist society there will always be winners and losers
• that there is no such thing as an ideal society
• that social and economic inequality will force change in society
• that ruling a society through fear and/or force will never create stability
• that a society that maintains a rigid class structure is bound to fail
• that those in charge of society should act in the interests of all its members
• that the problems a society faces are of its own making
• that the controls a society puts in place are for the benefit of its members
• that there will always be some people who have, and some people who do not
• that the most damaging rules of a society are its unwritten ones
• that virtual society is replacing older forms of society
• that the knowledge society is breaking down barriers
• that western society is losing its influence
• that high society sustains itself by living off the efforts of those below it
• that modern society is neither better or worse, just different
• that an equal society is a worthy aspiration
• that a progressive society absorbs change for the good of its members
• that crime is a threat to society
• that how a society treats its most vulnerable members is a measure of how much it cares
• that a wealthy society is built on much more than money
• that a self-made man or woman will always be a hero in a capitalist society
• that if corporations paid their fair share of taxes, our societies would benefit hugely
• that compulsory citizenship classes would make us better members of society
• that a healthy society values the contributions of its members equally
• that a civilized society is a fiction
• that the role of education is to enable people to take their places productively in society
• that the rules of a society are made by the most powerful to keep the weak in their place
• that, in theory, a socialist society is classless
• that communism and socialism are not the same thing
• that a democratic society is protected by every adult who is eligible to vote doing so
• that what makes a member of society good depends on the society you belong to
• that a society that can not tolerate criticism is inherently weak
• that the members of a society often use social sanctions to keep in each other in line
• than an authoritarian society rules through fear
• that constant oppression will eventually cause an uprising of people looking to change the society they live in
• that those who lead societies need to be fully aware of the enormous responsibilities they carry on behalf of the people they serve
• that modern media escalates the problems we have in society
• that changes in what society considers to be moral, and normal, sexual behavior is inevitable
• that we do not immediately go straight to hell if we challenge society’s traditionally held views on abortion
• that a society that has to imprison or kill its dissenting members in order to keep control is immoral
• that society provides form and meaning in our lives
• that living in society’s rat race is inescapable
• that changes in any society only come about through the willingness of some its members to speak out and act
• that true heroes are people who know the potential risks of challenging those in power in the societies in which they live and do it anyway   

50 persuasive speech topics about animals

• that pet euthanasia is humane
• that feeding naturally carnivorous animals a vegetarian diet is wrong
• that giving a pet to a child to care for teaches responsibility
• that dogs resemble their owners
• that battery farming should be banned for health reasons
• that battery farming should be banned for ethical reasons
• that keeping dangerous animals as pets should be banned
• that zoos should be regularly audited to ensure they are meeting the needs of the animals they house
• that hunting animals for sport is wrong
• that anthropomorphizing animals is foolhardy
• that taking an animal or bird from its natural habitat is cruel
• that animal or bird breeding programs set up for monetary gain are wrong
• that keeping a large four-legged pet in an apartment is wrong
• that people need to prove they can look after a pet before they get one
• that people with pets have better mental health
• that understanding a pet is easier than understanding a person
• that training an animal to do tricks to entertain is inhumane
• that blood sports (cock fighting, dog fights, bear baiting, bull fights, fox hunting...) involving animals should be banned
• that pets should be neutered or spayed
• that all animals should be protected
• that protecting endangered animals is sentimental hogwash
• that the money spent on saving endangered habitats would be better spent on hospitals and schools
• that animals are intelligent
• that animals should not be eaten
• that animals have rights
• that keeping endangered animals in zoos ensures their survival
• that animals can be farmed sustainably
• that animal breeding programs based on what’s currently fashionable should be banned
• that there are no ‘bad’ animals, only animals that have become bad as a result of how they have been treated by humans
• that animals that become pests have a right to be treated humanely
• that the practice branding animals with a branding iron should be stopped
• that any form of testing of any substance on any animal should be banned
• that inter-breeding species to create a hybrid animal is against the laws of nature and should be banned
• that the companion animals in hospitals, schools and other institutions give meaning to people’s lives
• that the companion animal programme should be fully supported by state or government funds
• that the best service animal is a dog
• that animals have individual personalities and habits, just like people.
• that wearing clothing made from the skin, bone or any other part of an animal, requiring their death before it can be made, is unethical
• that owning a dog and taking it for regular walks makes it easier to talk to strangers
• that all dogs should be on a leash in public places
• that some breeds of dogs do not make safe family pets
• that the use of drugs to artificially boost an animal’s growth for meat, or milk production should be banned
• that a person can only hunt in the wild if they have a license
• that adopting an animal from a pet shelter is the best way to get a pet
• that volunteering in an animal shelter is an antidote to depression
• that pet owners who dress and adorn their animals to display their personal wealth or to create an impression are abusing their animals
• that we should make a switch from farming cows for milk to goats because they are more environmentally friendly
• that recycling plastic packaging would protect marine environments
• that the process of natural selection guarantees the strongest and best adapted species
• that vivisection (experimentation on live animals) for scientific purposes of any sort should be outlawed

How to prepare a speech for a set time allowance

Here's a three minute speech example to illustrate.

If you speak at an average rate (between 130 to 150 words per minute, a 3 minute speech has approximately 360 – 450 words .

To be effective, you’ll want to allocate your time (and word count) three ways: approximately 70% for the middle or body of your speech and 15% each for the opening and conclusion. The largest portion goes to the body as this is where you lay out your reasoning and evidence to support your topic.

Speaking to time takes practice: lots of it. The only way to accurately know how long your speech will take to deliver is to go through it out loud as if you were actually giving it and time it. This is critical if you're speaking in a competition or if you're being formally assessed. Going over time can result in penalties.

For the approximate number of words-per-minute (wpm) for speeches ranging from 1 minute to 10 minutes long please see: how many words per minute in a speech .

For more about speech rate

More about choosing a good persuasive speech topic and preparing a great speech

For a more in-depth discussion about choosing a good persuasive topic, and crafting a persuasive speech please see:

• persuasive speech ideas  and read all the notes under the heading “What make a speech topic good?"
• writing a persuasive speech . You’ll find notes covering:
• setting a speech goal,
• audience analysis,
• evidence and empathy (the need for proof or evidence to back what you’re saying as well as showing you understand, or empathize with, the positions of those for and against your proposal),
• balance and obstacles (to address points against your proposal, the obstacles, in a fair and balanced way),
• varying structural patterns (ways to organize you material) and more

And click the link for hundreds more persuasive speech topic suggestions  ☺

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Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 105 interesting persuasive speech topics for any project.

General Education

Are you struggling to find good persuasive speech topics? It can be hard to find a topic that interests both you and your audience, but in this guide we've done the hard work and created a list of 105 great persuasive speech ideas. They're organized into ten categories and cover a variety of topics, so you're sure to find one that interests you.

In addition to our list, we also go over which factors make good persuasive speech topics and three tips you should follow when researching and writing your persuasive speech.

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

What makes certain persuasive speech topics better than others? There are numerous reasons, but in this section we discuss three of the most important factors of great topics for a persuasive speech.

It's Something You Know About or Are Interested in Learning About

The most important factor in choosing and creating a great persuasive speech is picking a topic you care about and are interested in. You'll need to do a lot of research on this topic, and if it's something you like learning about, that'll make the process much easier and more enjoyable. It'll also help you sound passionate and informed when you talk, both important factors in giving an excellent persuasive speech.

It's a Topic People Care About

In fourth grade, after being told I could give a persuasive speech on any topic I wanted to , I chose to discuss why the Saguaro cactus should be the United State's national plant. Even though I gave an impassioned talk and drew a life-size Saguaro cactus on butcher paper to hang behind me, I doubt anyone enjoyed the speech much.

I'd recently returned from a family vacation to Arizona where I'd seen Saguaro cacti for the first time and decided they were the coolest thing ever. However, most people don't care that much about Saguaro cacti, and most people don't care what our national plant is or if we even have one (for the record, the US has a national flower, and it's the rose).

Spare yourself the smattering of bored applause my nine-old self got at the end of my speech and choose something you think people will be interested in hearing about. This also ties into knowing your audience, which we discuss more in the final section.

It Isn't Overdone

When I was in high school, nearly every persuasive speech my classmates and I were assigned was the exact same topic: should the drinking age be lowered to 18? I got this prompt in English class, on standardized tests, in speech and debate class, etc. I've written and presented about it so often I could probably still rattle off all the main points of my old speeches word-for-word.

You can imagine that everyone's eyes glazed over whenever classmates gave their speeches on this topic. We'd heard about it so many times that, even if it was a topic we cared about, speeches on it just didn't interest us anymore.

The are many potential topics for a persuasive speech. Be wary of choosing one that's cliche or overdone. Even if you give a great speech, it'll be harder to keep your audience interested if they feel like they already know what you're going to say.

An exception to this rule is that if you feel you have a new viewpoint or facts about the topic that currently aren't common knowledge. Including them can make an overdone topic interesting. If you do this, be sure to make it clear early on in your speech that you have unique info or opinions on the topic so your audience knows to expect something new.

105 Topics for a Persuasive Speech

Here's our list of 105 great persuasive speech ideas. We made sure to choose topics that aren't overdone, yet that many people will have an interest in, and we also made a point of choosing topics with multiple viewpoints rather than simplistic topics that have a more obvious right answer (i.e. Is bullying bad?). The topics are organized into ten categories.

Arts/Culture

• Should art and music therapy be covered by health insurance?
• Should all students be required to learn an instrument in school?
• Should all national museums be free to citizens?
• Should graffiti be considered art?
• Should offensive language be removed from works of classic literature?
• Are paper books better than e-books?
• Should all interns be paid for their work?
• Should employees receive bonuses for walking or biking to work?
• Will Brexit hurt or help the UK's economy?
• Should all people over the age of 65 be able to ride the bus for free?
• Should the federal minimum wage be increased?
• Should tipping in restaurants be mandatory?
• Should Black Friday sales be allowed to start on Thanksgiving?
• Should students who bully others be expelled?
• Should all schools require students wear uniforms?
• Should boys and girls be taught in separate classrooms?
• Should students be allowed to listen to music during study hall?
• Should all elementary schools be required to teach a foreign language?
• Should schools include meditation or relaxation breaks during the day?
• Should grades in gym class affect students' GPAs?
• Should teachers get a bonus when their students score well on standardized tests?
• Should children of undocumented immigrants be allowed to attend public schools?
• Should students get paid for getting a certain GPA?
• Should students be allowed to have their cell phones with them during school?
• Should high school students be allowed to leave school during lunch breaks?
• Should Greek life at colleges be abolished?
• Should high school students be required to volunteer a certain number of hours before they can graduate?
• Should schools still teach cursive handwriting?
• What are the best ways for schools to stop bullying?
• Should prostitution be legalized?
• Should people with more than one DUI lose their driver's license?
• Should people be required to shovel snow from the sidewalks in front of their house?
• Should minors be able to drink alcohol in their home if they have their parent's consent?
• Should guns be allowed on college campuses?
• Should flag burning as a form of protest be illegal?
• Should welfare recipients be required to pass a drug test?
• Should white supremacist groups be allowed to hold rallies in public places?
• Should assault weapons be illegal?
• Should the death penalty be abolished?
• Should beauty pageants for children be banned?
• Is it OK to refuse to serve same-sex couples based on religious beliefs?
• Should transgender people be allowed to serve in the military?
• Is it better to live together before marriage or to wait?
• Should affirmative action be allowed?
• Should prisoners be allowed to vote?
• Should Columbus Day be replaced with Indigenous Peoples' Day?

Government/Politics

• Should the government spend more money on developing high-speed rail lines and less on building new roads?
• Should the government be allowed to censor internet content deemed inappropriate?
• Should Puerto Rico become the 51st state?
• Should Scotland declare independence from the United Kingdom?
• Whose face should be on the next new currency printed by the US?
• Should people convicted of drug possession be sent to recovery programs instead of jail?
• Should voting be made compulsory?
• Who was the best American president?
• Should the military budget be reduced?
• Should the President be allowed to serve more than two terms?
• Should a border fence be built between the United States and Mexico?
• Should countries pay ransom to terrorist groups in order to free hostages?
• Should minors be able to purchase birth control without their parent's consent?
• Should hiding or lying about your HIV status with someone you're sleeping with be illegal?
• Should governments tax soda and other sugary drinks and use the revenue for public health?
• Should high schools provide free condoms to students?
• Should the US switch to single-payer health care?
• Should healthy people be required to regularly donate blood?
• Should assisted suicide be legal?
• Should religious organizations be required to pay taxes?
• Should priests be allowed to get married?
• Should the religious slaughter of animals be banned?
• Should the Church of Scientology be exempt from paying taxes?
• Should women be allowed to be priests?
• Should countries be allowed to only accept refugees with certain religious beliefs?
• Should public prayer be allowed in schools?

Science/Environment

• Should human cloning be allowed?
• Should people be allowed to own exotic animals like tigers and monkeys?
• Should "animal selfies" in tourist locations with well-known animal species (like koalas and tigers) be allowed?
• Should genetically modified foods be sold in grocery stores?
• Should people be allowed to own pit bulls?
• Should parents be allowed to choose the sex of their unborn children?
• Should vaccinations be required for students to attend public school?
• What is the best type of renewable energy?
• Should plastic bags be banned in grocery stores?
• Should the United States rejoin the Paris Agreement?
• Should puppy mills be banned?
• Should fracking be legal?
• Should animal testing be illegal?
• Should offshore drilling be allowed in protected marine areas?
• Should the US government increase NASA's budget?
• Should Pluto still be considered a planet?
• Should college athletes be paid for being on a sports team?
• Should all athletes be required to pass regular drug tests?
• Should professional female athletes be paid the same as male athletes in the same sport?
• Are there any cases when athletes should be allowed to use steroids?
• Should college sports teams receive less funding?
• Should boxing be illegal?
• Should schools be required to teach all students how to swim?
• Should cheerleading be considered a sport?
• Should parents let their children play tackle football?
• Will robots reduce or increase human employment opportunities?
• What age should children be allowed to have a cell phone?
• Should libraries be replaced with unlimited access to e-books?
• Overall, has technology helped connect people or isolate them?
• Should self-driving cars be legal?
• Should all new buildings be energy efficient?
• Is Net Neutrality a good thing or a bad thing?
• Do violent video games encourage players to become violent in real life?

3 Bonus Tips for Crafting Your Persuasive Speech

Of course, giving a great persuasive speech requires more than just choosing a good topic. Follow the three tips below to create an outstanding speech that'll interest and impress your audience.

Do Your Research

For a persuasive speech, there's nothing worse than getting an audience question that shows you misunderstood the issue or left an important piece out. It makes your entire speech look weak and unconvincing.

Before you start writing a single word of your speech, be sure to do lots of research on all sides of the topic. Look at different sources and points of view to be sure you're getting the full picture, and if you know any experts on the topic, be sure to ask their opinion too.

Consider All the Angles

Persuasive speech topics are rarely black and white, which means there will be multiple sides and viewpoints on the topic. For example, for the topic "Should people be allowed to own pit bulls?" there are two obvious viewpoints: everyone should be allowed to own a pit bull if they want to, and no one should be allowed to own a pit bull. But there are other options you should also consider: people should only own a pit bull if they pass a dog training class, people should be able to own pit bulls, but only if it's the only dog they own, people should be able to own pi tbulls but only if they live a certain distance from schools, people should be able to own pit bulls only if the dog passes an obedience class, etc.

Thinking about all these angles and including them in your speech will make you seem well-informed on the topic, and it'll increase the quality of your speech by looking at difference nuances of the issue.

Know Your Audience

Whenever you give a speech, it's important to consider your audience, and this is especially true for persuasive speeches when you're trying to convince people to believe a certain viewpoint. When writing your speech, think about what your audience likely already knows about the topic, what they probably need explained, and what aspects of the topic they care about most. Also consider what the audience will be most concerned about for a certain topic, and be sure to address those concerns.

For example, if you're giving a speech to a Catholic organization on why you think priests should be allowed to marry, you don't need to go over the history of Catholicism or its core beliefs (which they probably already know), but you should mention any research or prominent opinions that support your view (which they likely don't know about). They may be concerned that priests who marry won't be as committed to God or their congregations, so be sure to address those concerns and why they shouldn't worry about them as much as they may think. Discussing your topic with people (ideally those with viewpoints similar to those of your future audience) before you give your speech is a good way to get a better understanding of how your audience thinks.

More Resources for Writing Persuasive Speeches

If you need more guidance or just want to check out some examples of great persuasive writing, consider checking out the following books:

• Lend Me Your Ears: Great Speeches in History by William Safire—This collection of great speeches throughout history will help you decide how to style your own argument.
• The Essentials of Persuasive Public Speaking by Sims Wyeth—For quick direct tips on public speaking, try this all-purpose guide.
• Talk Like TED: The 9 Public-Speaking Secrets of the World's Top Minds by Carmine Gallo—This popular book breaks down what makes TED talks work and how you can employ those skills in your own presentations.
• We Should All Be Feminists by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Make Good Art by Neil Gaiman—These two recent speeches by contemporary writers offer stellar examples of how to craft a compelling (and engaging) argument.

Conclusion: Persuasive Speech Ideas

Good persuasive speech topics can be difficult to think of, but in this guide we've compiled a list of 105 interesting persuasive speech topics for you to look through.

The best persuasive speech ideas will be on a topic you're interested in, aren't overdone, and will be about something your audience cares about.

After you've chosen your topic, keep these three tips in mind when writing your persuasive speech:

• Do your research
• Consider all the angles
• Know your audience

What's Next?

Now that you have persuasive speech topics, it's time to hone your persuasive speech techniques. Find out what ethos, pathos, logos, and kairos are and how to use them here .

Looking to take your persuasive technique from speech to sheets (of paper)? Get our three key tips on how to write an argumentative essay , or learn by reading through our thorough breakdown of how to build an essay, step by step .

Want a great GPA? Check out our step-by-step guide to getting good grades in high school so you can have a stellar transcript.

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

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454 Persuasive Speech Topics: Easy, Fun, & Controversial Ideas for Students

Every day, we create and consume persuasive messages. For example, when we argue about what movie to watch or where to go on the weekend. But how often do we pause to consider how we form our arguments or perceive the ones we hear from others? Public speaking on persuasive topics provides us the chance to do so.

Persuasive speeches do not inform the audience on the issue but rather convince them to take action or change their attitudes. In this article, we’ll discuss the structure of the persuasive speech. You’ll also find many compelling topics for public speaking that can come in handy and motivate the audience to change!

🔝 Top 10 Persuasive Speech Topics in 2024

✍️ persuasive speech outline, 😊 easy persuasive speech topics.

• 🎒 Speech Topics for High School
• 🎓 Speech Topics for College

⭐ Good Persuasive Speech Topics

💊 medical persuasive speech topics.

• 🍃 Environmental Speech Topics

⚖️ Ethical Persuasive Speech Topics

➡️ problem solution persuasive speech topics, 😜 funny persuasive speech topics, 🤔 controversial persuasive speech topics, 📝 persuasive essay topics, ❓ persuasive speech faq, 🔗 references.

• Why should society accept the AI revolution?
• Free education should be accessible to everyone.
• Social media impacts social behavior.
• Sports should be a part of children’s life.
• The death penalty should be canceled.
• Fashion and style reveal the inner world of the person.
• Every country should have open borders.
• Teenagers are addicted to Instagram and Snapchat.
• Solo travel is the best method to explore oneself.
• Should teachers teach kids in middle school about sex?

Delivering persuasive speeches is not that easy. It usually requires thorough preparation and thoughtful structuring to convey your message clearly and motivate the audience to make a move. We have prepared a detailed outline to help you create an effective persuasive speech. Check out the table below to learn its key components!

• Money cannot buy love and loyalty.
• Higher education should be free for everyone .
• Online communication is better than offline.
• Students should not wear the uniform .
• Use of cell phones while driving should be banned .
• Youngsters should respect their elders.
• Why should lying be banned?
• Gay marriage should not be legal .
• Selfies in tourist locations should be taxed.
• iOS is better in use than Android .
• Should the federal government legalize the use of marijuana ?
• Gender should not matter in the sports industry .
• Why should people colonize Mars ?
• Why should same-sex marriage be a norm ?
• People should visit dentists several times per year.
• Educational institutions should promote inclusivity .
• Should societies impose monogamy ?
• Adventures are better than routine life.
• Memes are a quick way to brighten up the mood.
• Why humans should not visit Mars .
• Offensive jokes should be forbidden.
• Nightclubbing is a waste of time.
• Tattoos should be considered fine art .
• Why should Halloween as the event be canceled?
• A good sense of humor helps make new acquaintances.
• Why celebrities should avoid political topics .
• Why does time pass faster on vacation?
• Life exists after death.
• Why celebrities should be apositive role model .
• Vaping should be banned in public places.

🎒 Persuasive Speech Topics for High School

• Dating a coworker should be illegal.
• Should parents spank their children ?
• Jealousy destroys all types of relationships.
• Procrastination plays a vital role in the working process.
• Should we restrict the Internet usage by children ?
• Why shouldn’t parents force their kids to go to church?
• Small businesses should be protected by law.
• Should US public schools have a longer year ?
• Why are online bloggers beneficial to society?
• Owning a business leads people to feel lonely and isolated.
• Adult children should support elderly parents .
• Bitcoin should be used as legal currency.
• Technology doesn’t make us lazy.
• Why you should not have grades in school .
• Why should the death penalty still be used as a punishment?
• People should buy only electric vehicles .
• Cigarette manufacturers should be prohibited .
• Kids under the age of 13 should have an 8 PM curfew .
• Police brutality against black people should be punished.
• Censorship issue: books should never be banned .
• People should have hobbies to be satisfied with life.
• Having a role model is essential for constant self-improvement.
• Why should marriage be based on love and not arranged ?
• Why is creativity crucial in the SMM industry ?
• The payment for commonalities should be decreased.
• Why should evolution be taught in schools ?
• Planning prevents procrastination.
• Listening to music while driving decreases the rate of car crashes.
• English language learners should be immersed in English .
• Lotteries should be illegal, the same as gambling and casinos.

🎓 Persuasive Speech Topics for College

• The government should take serious measures to prevent the issue of child pornography .
• Should Mormon children be returned to their homes ?
• Enormous coffee consumption can cause anxiety or panic attacks.
• The three-day weekends can increase work productivity .
• All police officers should wear a body camera .
• Why texting on the road is the leading cause of car accidents?
• The number of ads on the billboards should be cut.
• Should public servants have the right to strike ?
• Democracy as the government structure has a lot of pitfalls.
• Foreign aid from the United States should aim to support global peace.
• Why juveniles should be tried as adults .
• Affirmative action should be taken to redress historical and ingrained inequalities.
• The government should promote the spread of charter schools .
• Should casinos be legal in Texas ?
• The Black Lives Matter movement has played a vital role in preventing vigilante violence.
• COVID-19 vaccines should be mandatory to protect people at risk.
• Should parents have the right to choose their children based on genetics ?
• Genetic engineering can be used for the treatment of genetic diseases.
• White nationalism should be canceled.
• Should guns be banned from college campuses ?
• Why does routine make people feel healthier and more energetic?
• Food preferences have the power to connect people around the world.
• Individuals should not be allowed to sell their body organs .
• Positive childhood memories play a crucial role in a person’s development.
• Each individual should have a sense of purpose.
• Should aid to developing countries be stopped ?
• Border security should be a priority in ensuring national safety.
• Extreme weather disasters are the consequences of global warming.
• Should we rely on eye-witness testimonies to identify crime-suspects ?
• Why does applying sunscreen reduce the risks of skin cancer ?

Whether you want to change the opinion of your audience or motivate them to action, here are some fascinating and thought-provoking topics that are perfect for persuasive speeches:

• Year-round school is better for academic success .
• Should academic achievement be a primary concern for college admission ?
• The use of fossil fuels should be banned to stop global warming.
• The drinking age should be raised to 25 years old.
• Why should marijuana be legalized and crack or cocaine remain illegal ?
• Abortion should be legalized at the federal level.
• Why is a strong middle class crucial to economic development?
• Should social norms change at the brink of the new era ?
• Prisoners should be allowed to vote after being acquitted.
• Violent video games promote aggressive behavior in teenagers.
• Why should bullies be expelled from school ?
• Parents should not track the location of their children.
• Why is conflict necessary for change in a relationship?
• Drinking age should be lowered to 18 years .
• The prices of pharmaceutical drugs should be affordable for elders.

Persuasive Speech Topics about Music

• Every person who has good hearing may sing.
• Discusison of why we should keep vocal fry .
• Why does classical music still play a vital role in music art?
• The lyrics of a song should elicit emotions in the audience.
• Legalizing free downloads of music and movies .
• Music is an effective way to communicate with the masses.
• Pirating music is a severe danger to the country’s economy.
• Can music be an enhancement to education ?
• Rap music has a bad influence on people’s behavior.
• Music should be an anchor to positive emotions.
• How does music reinforce stereotypes ?
• Songs with violent lyrics should be banned for teenagers under 18.
• Music has the potential to be the most effective therapy for mental illnesses.
• Does music distract students or help them ?
• Why should patriotic songs inspire people to feel passionate about their country?

Sports Persuasive Speech Topics

• Coaches should be more active in athlete health management.
• Should athletes be held to a higher moral standard ?
• Why should hunting animals be banned as a sport in all countries?
• Extreme sports with severe consequences should be outlawed.
• Should football be banned for being too violent and dangerous ?
• Heavy training and burnout put young athletes at risk of serious injury.
• Alcohol and tobacco advertising during athletic events should be forbidden.
• Reasons why kids should not play football .
• The success of the football team depends on coaching skills.
• College athletic teams should have sponsorship from the government.
• College athletes should not be paid .
• Terrorist countries should not be allowed to host international sporting activities.
• Why do stress and anxiety make athletes more vulnerable to injuries?
• Should Russian athletes be allowed to play in tournaments ?
• The pay for men and women athletes should be equal.

Social Media Persuasive Speech Topics

• Social media dating should be treated more seriously.
• Should social media be banned ?
• Social media is to blame for the proliferation of online sexual exploitation.
• Why does Internet communication impact politics and social awareness?
• YouTube comments: users should have a choice .
• Instagram and TikTok make people more selfish.
• The use of social networks should be banned for elementary school students.
• Lemon coffee trend on TikTok shouldn’t be done .
• Social media causes severe mental disorders.
• Why do social networks lead to problems with self-esteem ?
• Should online shaming be considered a problem ?
• Instagram is the best place to earn money in the modern world.
• The key benefit of social media is the freedom of speech .
• Social media for children: threat or opportunity ?
• People should be more cautious with using social networks.

The field of medicine provides many intriguing and interesting persuasive speech topics for students! You can check some of them below:

• Healthcare should be a right, not a privilege.
• Should parents avoid vaccinating their children ?
• Why should health insurance cover dentistry?
• Artificial intelligence positively influences the healthcare industry.
• Mandatory overtime for nurses should be eliminated .
• Medical aid for dying should be legalized.
• Organ donation and transportation should not be forbidden.
• Why we should all be wearing face masks .
• Marijuana should be legalized for medical purposes .
• COVID-19 vaccination protects children and adolescents.
• Should we withhold life support ?
• Healthy eating habits positively impact physical health.
• E-cigarettes lead to lung cancer and cardiovascular disease.
• Should physician-assisted suicide be legal ?
• The quality of prenatal and postnatal care should be improved.
• Animal testing in medical research should be canceled.
• Should COVID-19 vaccines be mandatory ?
• Sex education is crucial in preventing teenage pregnancy .
• Childhood obesity comes from the lack of nutrition education in schools.
• Should patients have access to truthful information ?
• Regular medical checkups lower the chance of premature mortality.
• People should regulate the amount of sugar intake to promote a healthy lifestyle.
• Competence for nurses: why is it important ?

Mental Health Persuasive Speech Topics

• Employers should create healthy work environments for their workforce.
• Social media as a cause of anxiety and depression .
• Children experience mental health issues less often than adults.
• Stress at work leads to severe psychological issues.
• Does social media use contribute to depression ?
• Music therapy should be widely used in healing and recovery processes.
• Implicit bias shapes the way medical providers interact with patients.
• Hypnotherapy as an effective method for treating depression .
• Regular sport and a healthy diet promote good mental well-being.
• Why do open discussions on mental health help cope with anxiety?
• Substance abuse: the cause of social problems .
• Promoting a person’s social-emotional well-being leads to lower crime rates .
• Raising awareness of mental health reduces suicide rates .
• Why is anxiety not related to personal weakness ?
• Mental healthcare professionals should encourage self-care to avoid burnout.

Psychology Persuasive Speech Topics

• Trauma-focused psychotherapy is the most effective method of treating people with PTSD .
• Psychology: when we should trust our senses .
• Why do family relationships affect behavior patterns in children?
• Burnout at work is the leading cause of mental disorders.
• Is creativity a modern panacea from boredom and depression ?
• People should not work as psychologists without higher education.
• The harm reduction treatment model is a great alternative to abstinence.
• Is Islamic spirituality a key to psychological well-being ?
• Why is it a bad idea for therapists to text clients?
• The social pressure from peers leads to a mental breakdown.
• Psychological testing: beneficial or harmful ?
• War veterans should take therapy for PTSD.
• Marketing firms use human behavior patterns to their advantage.
• Psychology: does a criminal mind exist ?
• Happy childhood does not guarantee good mental health.

🍃 Environmental Persuasive Speech Topics

The environment takes an important place in our lives. We can make beneficial changes and save the Earth for future generations by highlighting numerous persuasive environmental topics in our speeches! Here are some of the most relevant ones:

• Eco-fashion is an effective way to save the Earth.
• Clear cutting in rainforest should be limited .
• Plastic pollution poses a danger to the marine ecosystem.
• Why does overpopulation negatively impact the environment?
• Seven things you should know about the eco-friendly bags .
• Eco-tourism helps conserve natural resources and raise environmental consciousness.
• People should care about e-waste in our digital age.
• Reasons why plastic bags should be banned .
• Why do plant-based diets positively affect people’s mental and physical health?
• Rural development contributes to widespread pollution and wildfires.
• Should the Green New Deal be embraced ?
• Buying sustainable production has a positive effect on biodiversity promotion.
• Quality of life highly depends on the quality of the environment.
• Water recycling: why is it important ?
• Every person should plant a tree beside the house.
• Littering should be punished with heavy fines.
• Renewable energy: why do we need it ?
• Covid-19 has played an essential role in the environment’s recovery.
• Developed countries are responsible for global warming .
• Why hunting is environmentally beneficial .
• We should aim toward a paperless society.
• A carbon tax should be necessary to preserve the environment.
• Biodiversity on the Earth: why is it crucial for the environment ?

Persuasive Speech Topics about Food

• Fast-food restaurants should ban the usage of palm oil.
• Should Americans adopt a vegan lifestyle ?
• Why should the use of chemicals in agriculture be decreased?
• Factory farms increase the instance or exacerbation of asthma cases .
• Should food manufacturers label all GMOs ?
• Food waste significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions.
• People should form mindful consumption habits and proper food storage techniques.
• Eating home-cooked food is essential .
• Seasonal eating has a positive impact on reducing transportation emissions.
• Plastic food packaging should be banned around the world.
• Is fast food really harmful and can it be healthy ?
• The government should take water-saving measures at the national level.
• Why can optimizing energy usage in food processing save the environment?
• Genetically modified foods: how safe are they ?
• A responsible food system contributes to the long-term health of our planet.

Persuasive Speech Topics About Animals

• People should prioritize the protection of endangered species .
• Animals should have the same rights as humans: pros and cons .
• Zoos should be closed to prevent animal abuse.
• Beauty companies that encourage animal testing should be banned.
• Animal welfare: why animals should be treated with kindness and respect .
• Why are animal sports banning campaigns ineffective?
• Young kids should be taught how to take care of animals.
• Save animals: experimentation should be stopped .
• Spending time with pets reduces stress and depression.
• Domestic animals should be vaccinated as necessary.
• Animal use in scientific testing should be stopped .
• Pets should be adopted from the shelter rather than bought in a shop.
• Why should pets be microchipped?
• Should animals be used for research ?
• Flies, bees, and other insects are essential to the ecosystem.

Ethical persuasive speech topics provide a compelling platform for discussing our world’s moral issues and inspiring significant change. Below are the best persuasive speech topics on ethics themes that can come in handy!

• People should live together before marriage.
• Philosophy prospectus: why should we be moral ?
• LGBT people should be permitted to serve in the military .
• Why should suicide commitment be legal?
• Should parents be responsible for children’s crimes ?
• Vaccinations against infectious illnesses should be made mandatory in schools.
• Why is lying appropriate when it comes down to survival?
• Why should I be moral when it is not in my best interest to do so ?
• A sugar tax can assist in reducing the spread of diet-related health issues.
• People should be legally responsible for their moral decisions and actions.
• Should Kant be criticized for his absolutism ?
• Why should graffiti be considered art?
• Wearing natural fur and leather is unethical in the modern world.
• Should children be tried as adults for murder ?
• Children should be protected from using inappropriate websites.
• Each person should own a gun for personal protection.
• Ethical dilemma: should gene editing be performed on human embryos ?
• Kids should be taught ethics in elementary school.
• Religious organizations should be required to pay taxes.
• Should behavior be made illegal because it is considered immoral ?
• Innovative gadgets make teenagers lazy and rude.
• Terminally ill patients should have access to euthanasia .
• Should the powerful have a right to rule over the weak ?

Business Persuasive Speech Topics

• Harassment is one of the most significant ethical challenges in business .
• Biometric security should be mainstream in firms .
• Abuse of leadership negatively affects company development.
• Why are transparency and trustworthiness crucial in business financial performance?
• Should companies disclose key executives’ medical problems ?
• Extraverts are worse entrepreneurs than introverts.
• Companies should foremost create a good working environment for their employees.
• Should companies engage corporate social responsibility ?
• Smoke breaks should not be allowed during the working process.
• Why is working for a rival a wise decision?
• Should marketers test advertising ?
• Political relationships should not be used for business development .
• Free perks to employees positively influence overall productivity.
• Why should businesses embrace remote work ?
• Each business should take corporate social responsibility .

Political Persuasive Speech Topics

• Psychological therapies should be government funded.
• Should illegal immigrants be made legal citizens ?
• Why is torture an inappropriate method to receive a confession in prison?
• Welfare recipients should be obliged to submit to a drug test.
• Why gun control laws should be scrapped .
• Political corruption should be punished with the death penalty.
• Why should the government fund partisan organizations?
• Why should Bernie Sanders be a president ?
• The voting age should be decreased to 16 years old.
• Why is there never a good enough cause to declare war?
• Military policy that should be changed .
• Prostitution should be legalized and protected by the law.
• Illegal immigration significantly impacts terrorism act rates.
• Chinese one-child policy: why it should not be relaxed .
• Health insurance should be mandatory by law.

Persuasive Speech Topics About Education

• Teachers should use social networks to communicate with students.
• Should Canada provide free tuition for university students ?
• Why is higher education overrated?
• Exams should no longer be used to assess the skills of students.
• Why should vocabulary lessons be taught ?
• Online learning is more effective than attending classes at school.
• University bribes affect hardworking students.
• Should stimulants be prescribed to boost grades ?
• Why do teachers assist students in cheating during exams ?
• Teachers’ preferential treatment in schools should be punished.
• Should the US adopt the British tradition of a gap year ?
• Parents and students should report bullying and cyberbullying cases.
• Students should not be allowed to have their phones with them during school.
• Should concealed handguns be allowed in Texas classrooms ?
• Immigrants without documents should be permitted to attend public schools.

Problem-solution topics convince audiences to actively engage in discovering practical and effective answers to challenges affecting our society. Check out some ideas below!

• How can we deal with climate change ?
• Should Georgia legalize gambling to raise revenue ?
• Maintaining peace and security is critical for poverty prevention.
• Filtration and disinfection as methods to solve the water pollution issue.
• Have “three-strikes” laws been effective and should they be continued ?
• How can a rise in public awareness decrease human rights violation cases?
• Taking baths as a way to reduce anxiety and stress.
• Why should immigrants receive social services ?
• How can the government solve the problem of wage inequality ?
• Buying e-books as a way to protect the environment.
• Where and how sex education should be conducted among the young people ?
• Government sanctions are crucial to reducing child labor .
• How can we provide adequate salaries for qualified teachers?
• The Right-to-Die bill: why all states should pass it .
• Interactive games as a way to increase attention in class.
• International cooperation is vital to combat cyber threats .
• Should the province of Nova Scotia increase its minimum wage ?
• Donating as a method to reduce global poverty .
• How to deal with misinformation and fake news in the digital age?
• How should we deal with the rising cost of education ?
• Planning strategies are essential to solve the problem of overpopulation.
• How can gender inequality be stopped at school or the workplace?
• Animal transplantation and commerce in organs should be used to reduce the shortage in organs .
• Increasing access to cheap internet infrastructure as a way to narrow the digital gap.
• How can we solve the problem of doping in sports ?
• E-cigarettes smoking: threat or solution ?
• Good school culture as a modern approach to reducing truancy .
• Reading out loud helps improve the critical thinking of students .
• Assisted suicide as a solution in end-of-life care .
• How can we make the media ethical and responsible?

Funny persuasive speech topics perform two functions: entertain and persuade the target audience. We have prepared a list of the cleverest ideas for you to use in your speech!

• Video games should be considered a sport.
• Should apartments ban dogs based on breed ?
• Why is the Moon landing fake?
• Eating dessert first positively impacts people’s well-being.
• Feminism: how a man should look at a woman .
• The homework for high school students should be canceled.
• Laughing is the best therapy for depression.
• Why should pitbulls not be banned ?
• People in the future should have personal robots.
• Why should children be allowed to choose their bedtime?
• Should people under 18 get a tattoo ?
• Instagram kills individuality in teenagers.
• Why should schools have pizza breaks between classes?
• Should plant-based dairy be labeled as milk ?
• Parents should not be allowed to comment on their kids’ wardrobe choices.
• The consumption of junk food should be controlled on the federal level.
• The United States government should release more UFO information to the public .
• Comic books should be used to teach Mathematics.
• The mismatched socks impact academic performance during exams.
• Should spamming be illegal ?
• The government should create insurance for breakups.
• The Loch Ness Monster should be protected from annoying tourists.
• Should people be paid to stay healthy ?
• Why can sarcastic jokes save the conversation?
• Men should always go on compromise with their wives.
• Gender stereotypes: should real men wear pink ?
• Rap music provokes aggressive behavior among teens.
• Why breaking up via social media should be illegal?
• Online dating should not be classified as dating .
• Binge-watching Netflix should be practiced during the lessons.

Controversial persuasive speech topics provoke listeners’ critical thinking and encourage dynamic discussion. Check the best persuasive speech topics on controversial themes below!

• Why does a bad first date lead to a strong and long relationship?
• Why should flogging be brought back ?
• The dream job topic is the lightest way to talk about work.
• Aliens should share their secret technologies with NATO.
• Ukraine should not join the European Union .
• Only intelligent speakers should have freedom of speech.
• Atheism is not a religion but rather a philosophical position.
• Should college education be free for all US citizens ?
• Why is nuclear energy ingrained as part of the power grid in the US?
• Terrorists are generally more sadistic than religious.
• Why cameras should be placed in public places .
• Everyone should be able to possess a gun .
• Why is it crucial to be selfish from time to time?
• Should schools distribute condoms ?
• People should pass the test on political awareness before voting.
• Gay people should be permitted to adopt children.
• Should the sale of human organs be legalized ?
• Why is feminism irrelevant in the 21st century?
• Schools should provide free birth control for teenagers .
• Should gay and lesbian couples be allowed to adopt ?
• Children as young as 12 should be allowed to work.
• Why should human cloning be allowed?
• Should the US resume a millitary draft ?
• The show The Kardashians is harming society.
• Why are most conspiracy theories fake?
• What should society censor ?
• The Big Bang Theory movie deepens viewers’ knowledge of science.
• McDonald’s should be opened in every town around the world.
• Why should abortion be included in the national healthcare plan ?
• Why is writing an autobiography a good idea?

Need to write a persuasive essay ? Do not panic! Here are some additional persuasive topics that you can use for your writing:

• Negative news on TV increases the level of stress.
• Should sex and violence be restricted on television ?
• Leisure time should be spent with benefits for physical and mental health.
• Daydreaming develops learning skills in students.
• Why the government should not have bailed out banks .
• Every person should be required to participate in national public service.
• Cell phone radiation is hazardous to people’s health.
• What qualities should a leader have ?
• More money should be invested in space exploration .
• Alternative medicine should be outlawed.
• Mandatory job drug test should be allowed .
• Why can stalkers be dangerous?
• Parents should not buy a lot of candies for their children.
• Which country should the US invest in, Australia or Mexico ?
• Students should plant trees to contribute to a greener environment.
• Why is your biggest failure the most beneficial lesson for you?
• Why should we look at race when trying to understand fascism ?
• Countries that started the wars should pay reparations .
• Pineapple on a pizza should be canceled.
• Why Guantanamo Bay should stay open .
• Why should you and your parents never be friends on Instagram?
• Starting a day by making a bed increases productivity during the day.
• Why the Pantheon should be preserved .
• TikTok is an entertaining social network as well as educational.
• Using curse words should be taxed.
• Should net neutrality be protected or discontinued ?
• Dreaming is the first step in achieving the goal.
• Stereotypes and biases are not appropriate in the modern world.
• Should Turkey enter the European Union ?
• Why are politics bad role models for children?

What Is a Persuasive Speech?

A persuasive speech is a type of communication with the audience where the speaker tries to persuade them by appealing to logic, ethics, or emotions. The speaker must provide clear arguments to back up their point of view. In contrast to informative speeches, persuasive speeches do not try to give information. Instead, they motivate audiences to think or behave differently.

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech?

Various qualities characterize effective persuasive speeches:

• Attention-grabbing introduction . Convincing speakers immediately draw the listener into their messages by starting with a brief intriguing statement supported by evidence.
• Authority to speak . The audience usually heeds speakers’ messages if they establish their expertise and credibility.
• The logical order . The speaker should put the arguments logically and sequentially to control the information flow.
• Effective conclusion . The final part of the speech is the last chance to convince the audience, so it must summarize key points and include a call to action.

What to Write a Persuasive Speech on?

To find a perfect topic for your speech, follow the steps below:

• Think of something that is important to you or has a life-changing effect.
• Try to understand what makes you happy or angry about this theme.
• Write down ways in which you can make a difference.

That’s it! Now you know which topic has the potential to inspire action or change among the target listeners!

What Are Good Persuasive Speech Topics?

If you want to rock the stage as a public speaker, aim at topics that are controversial and risky. Human cloning, polygamy, workplace romance, and abortion are just a few examples. Like no other, such topics provoke the audience to take action and change. In addition, they raise deep concern in listeners’ minds and show alternative viewpoints on the issue.

• 110+ Controversial Debate Topics to Challenge Your Students | We Are Teachers
• 100 Persuasive Essay Topics | ThoughtCo
• Keeping Your Speech Moving | Stand Up, Speak Out
• Persuasive Speeches | Public Speaking as Performance
• Persuasive Speaking | University of Pittsburgh
• Persuasive Speaking | Communication in the Real World
• 105 Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics for Any Project | PrepScholar
• Appendix A: Persuasive Speech Topic Ideas | Principles of Public Speaking
• Top 10 Controversial Psychiatric Disorders | LiveScience
• Mental Health Myths and Facts | SAMHSA
• Select a Research Topic: Current Events and Controversial Issues | Southern Adventist University
• Persuasive Speeches: What Are You Questioning? | UNC Greensboro
• 100 Persuasive Speech Topics for Students | ThoughtCo
• Persuasive Speech Topics on Relationships | Classroom
• Unique Persuasive Speech Topics for College | YourDictionary
• How to Slay Your Speech | University of Alaska Fairbanks
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50 Topics for a Persuasive Speech

• 5-minute read
• 13th January 2023

Some find writing a persuasive speech to be intimidating, but it’s an opportunity to share your position on a topic you care about and to invite listeners to support (or at least appreciate) your way of thinking. You’ll benefit from a clear position, credible evidence, and careful consideration of your audience.

Your first step is to pick a topic. Whether you’re a teacher creating an assignment or a student deciding what to speak about, our list of 50 suggested persuasive speech topics and tips are a good starting place.

Choosing a Topic

●  It’s more enjoyable to research and write a speech about a topic that genuinely holds your interest. It’ll make for better delivery, too. Passion is contagious! On the other hand, boredom and a lack of enthusiasm come through easily in vocal tone.

●  Avoid tired, overdone issues. If you’ve heard it all before, there’s a good chance your audience has, too. Pick something current and relevant to your listeners . If you go with a popular topic, try to approach it from a fresh angle.

●  Issues that contain multiple viewpoints are preferable to simplistic good/bad debates. Most reasonable people would agree that “bullying is bad.” But they might learn something new if you share recent research on bullying and offer different approaches to tackling it.

Let’s look at some interesting speech topics, categorized by subject.

Should free speech on the internet be restricted?

At what age should children have access to smartphones?

Does texting hinder interpersonal skills?

Should parents limit their children’s screen time?

Should laws prohibit using devices while driving?

Is there a link between device usage and decreased mental health?

Should the number of US Supreme Court Justices be increased?

Should voting be compulsory?

Should Election Day in the US change from Tuesday to the weekend?

Should the electoral college system be abolished?

Should election procedures be standardized in all states?

Should the Senate filibuster be abolished?

Should the death penalty be legal?

Should states be allowed to have different abortion laws?

Should the legal age to own an assault rifle be raised?

Should the US conduct a voluntary gun buyback program?

Are governments doing enough to address climate change?

Is student loan forgiveness fair?

Should the US invest in high-speed rail similar to those in Japan and Europe?

Should plastic bags be banned in grocery stores?

What is the greatest threat to international stability?

What can be done to prevent cyber threats?

Is the two-party political system of the US failing?

Should the US adopt a single-payer universal health care system?

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Should minimum wage be a factor in the cost of health care?

Is healthcare a human right?

Should access to abortion be required by healthcare providers?

Do school shooter drills damage students’ mental health?

Should vaccinations be required for students to attend public school?

Should employers offer incentives and bonuses to employees who bike or walk to work?

Do school uniforms offer any advantages?

Are school dress codes gender biased?

Are standardized test scores given too much importance in schools?

Do college entrance exams privilege those with higher socio-economic status?

Should teachers be allowed to keep firearms in their classrooms as protection against active shooters?

Should indigenous languages be taught in schools?

Should immigrants have access to free language classes?

Should books ever be banned in schools?

Should elementary schools be required to teach a foreign language?

Should schools be cellphone free?

Should volunteering before graduation be compulsory?

Should school cafeterias serve more plant-based foods?

Should parents let their children play tackle football?

Should college sports teams receive less money?

Should there be more female priests or pastors of churches?

Should churches and other religious organizations pay taxes?

Should all priests be allowed to marry?

Should prayer be permitted in public schools?

On balance, does religion create more conflict or foster peace?

Should there be exceptions to the freedom to practice any religion?

Persuasion Isn’t All or Nothing

People often think persuasion means getting others to agree with you, but persuasion is more nuanced than that. You might persuade someone to go beyond sympathy and act. You might highlight the gray areas of a typically black and white debate.

When total agreement is out of reach, you can settle for agreement in part. Consider your audience thoughtfully when you decide on your goals and remember that you have options.

Step Up with Confidence

We hope these suggested persuasive speech topics have the wheels of your mind turning. Whether it’s for a speech or an argumentative essay , getting your ideas on paper and editing them is a necessary part of the process. Our editors are here to help you confidently put out your best work. Submit a free sample today .

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227 Amazing College Persuasive Essay Topics [Free Ideas]

Ever wondered what a persuasive essay is? Are you struggling to differentiate it from an argumentative one? Do you think it’s impossible to find original persuasive speech topics for college students?

If you have answered yes to any question, you’ve come to the right place. Our team can help you!

A persuasive essay is a piece of academic writing that convinces readers to accept the author’s position and agree with their ideas. Through clear arguments and examples, the writer demonstrates the legitimacy of their point of view.

Below, we have provided a list of the most interesting and unique college persuasive essay topics. So, don’t waste any more of your time searching for the right title. Use our ideas and create an outstanding persuasive essay!

• 👉 How to Choose?
• ✨ Best Speech Topics
• 🎓 Ideas on Education
• 📜 Topics on History
• ⚖ Ideas on Politics
• 👍 Topics on Sociology
• 💰 Ideas on Economics
• 🚌 Transportation
• 🌿 Environment
• ⚙ Technology
• 🌍 Traveling
• ✌ Lifestyle
• 🏫 Teenagers
• 📚 Literature
• 🖐 25 More Topics

👉 How to Choose a Persuasive Essay Topic for College?

The main secret of the successful persuasive essay is a compelling topic. Therefore, when choosing the right persuasive topic, follow these few simple pieces of advice:

• Re-read the assignment . The task that you’ve received from your tutor can be of great assistance. You just have to read it correctly. Unfortunately, college students tend to underestimate the power of the question. Don’t make this mistake. Read your assignment carefully because it can provide clues on the topic to look for.
• Brainstorm ideas. Before writing any paper, college students have to research. It will ensure the argumentative part of the persuasive essay. To understand what to examine, have an ideation session, and consider a variety of ideas. Picking the most appropriate one, you’ll see where to start your research. Try to find as many topics as you can. Free college essays collection is a good place to check out as a part of your session. You’ll be able to see what topics are already covered, and what you can expand upon. It will make your investigation and writing processes easier!
• Don’t pick an idea if it’s too broad . You may think that in this case, you’ll have plenty of things to argue about. Well, maybe a bit too many. In your essay, you should cover an entire topic so that it sounds convincing. When the idea is too broad, you can’t fit every argument in one paper. So, specify your title. For instance, you want to persuade your readers to stay healthy. Then don’t investigate all the aspects of maintaining health. Focus on one specific issue. For example, explore the positive influence of sport on the general health condition of a human being.
• Ensure that you have credible sources. In some colleges, even the smallest essays may require a list of references. Thus, make sure you have materials to research and later list as your sources. Remember: Good persuasive paper topics for college have to offer a wide variety of sources to investigate. So, if you are not confident in your materials, better change the title. It will prevent you from a lack of evidence to support your arguments.
• Choose a topic of personal interest. We’re not compelling you to write something that you enjoy when it contradicts the assignment. But try to select an idea that doesn’t bore you from reading it out loud. It is always more pleasurable to write on a topic you are passionate about. Don’t miss your chance to make turn your essay writing process into an exciting activity.
• Select something you have an opinion about, but open to debate. Your tutors can disagree with your position. Nevertheless, it is not a reason to give up. It’s the right time to show your critical thinking skills. State your position clearly and provide convincing arguments to support it. Show your readers that you can change your position if you see some compelling data. It can give you some extra credit. The best persuasion topics for college create an environment for debates and discussions.
• Be unique! In colleges, the amount of papers done daily is enormous. Don’t make your professors read about the importance of waste sorting, for example, yet again. The topic of environmental protection is undoubtedly extremely significant. However: It is way too overused. The professors are tired of reading essays on the same issues again and again. Surprise them and stand out.

✨ 12 Best Persuasive Speech Topics for College Students

• How important is mental health?
• Is online school more effective?
• Are GMO products good?
• Is social media dangerous?
• What’s wrong with the education system?
• Does recycling work?
• Is veganism bad for the environment?
• Should foreign policy be feminist?
• Is marriage an obsolete institution?
• Can protests and demonstrations bring change?
• Can alternative medicine actually work?
• Is modern advertising unethical?

🔑 Essential College Persuasive Essay Topics

We bet, every college student at least once had an assignment to write a persuasive essay. Haven’t you had yet? The best is yet to come! Thus, you have to be prepared to face all the challenges of a persuasive essay composing.

Searching for interesting persuasive essay topics is a complicated issue. However, you don’t have to worry about it. Our team of experts gathered the most popular and effective ideas in one place.

Don’t stress out about the topic:

Take a look at our list of persuasive essay topics for college students. We divided our ideas into sections so that you can find the most appropriate one. So, you can easily navigate throughout our page for a more effective search.

🎓 College Persuasive Essay Ideas on Education

• An educational system should encourage creativity .
• Student diversity should be present in a school classroom .
• Why should college students care about their mental and physical health?
• Why should we stop girls’ discrimination in the modern educational system?
• Why should computer science programs be taught in colleges and universities?
• Why should parents take part in their children’s education?

• Why reading performance of students with learning disabilities should be improved?
• Studying abroad results in better education.
• Homework does not help in the learning process.
• The costs of higher education should be reduced.
• A grade does not show a student’s knowledge.
• The Internet overuse blocks the mental development of a modern teenager.
• Education should not depend on technologies.
• Essay writing develops the critical thinking skills of students.
• Foreign language learning should be mandatory in school . Conduct research on how foreign languages influence children and teenagers. What are the positive sides of such education? Then, persuade your readers that foreign languages are essential in the school core curriculum.
• Art classes should be a priority in middle school . Elaborate on the importance of the development of the sense of art for children and teenagers. Why should art classes be higher in the list of priorities than technical or science courses? How can the right perception of art help pupils in future life?
• The core curriculum of the high school should not be too broad. Why do we have to narrow down our focus in high school? Explain how teenagers will benefit from studying particular subjects instead of getting general knowledge. Convince your readers about the importance of focusing on a specific field in high school.
• A gap year before entering the university is beneficial. Give persuading evidence why students should take a gap year. What are the advantages? Make your readers debate whether a gap year is worth considering. Finally, convince them that it is worth it.
• Mobile phones should not be allowed in school. State your position regarding the usage of smartphones during the learning process. What adverse ramifications do the mobile phones have on the academic results of pupils? Persuade your readers to prohibit phone usage in school.
• Traditional education is more effective than remote learning . How the benefits of the conventional way of learning outweigh the advantages of remote education? Compare the aspects of remote learning for different age groups: 1st grade age, 6th grade age, and a college student.

📜 College Persuasive Essay Topics on History

• The American Revolution was a turning point in USA history.
• The year 1763 is crucial in US history.
• The media played a crucial role in promoting the Vietnam War .
• We shouldn’t underestimate the significance of African-American social reform.
• Technological advancement of the 17th century was a new era in world history.
• Without Enlightenment and Romantic Age , the European culture wouldn’t be so progressive nowadays.

• People should’ve stopped the propaganda of Adolf Hitler and Jim Jones before the intensive development.
• The historical influence of Abraham Lincoln should become a role model for modern political figures.
• Americans should have abolished slavery in the United States way earlier.
• The four voyages by Christopher Columbus are crucial in the progress of world history.
• Cultural exchanges in the medieval period significantly impacted the civilizations.
• Protestant reformation was the most influential Christian movement.
• Japanese women in the Middle Ages should have been more powerful.
• The world war should never happen again.
• The age of exploration . Who are the key figures? How did they impact world history formation? Convince your readers of the importance of the age of exploration.
• The Mayan calendar system did not predict the end of the world . Investigate the Mayan calendar system. What is your explanation of the fact that the calendar system ended in the year 2012? Persuade your readers that the suggestions about the end of the world in 2012 are false.
• Racial discrimination in America violated human rights to a great extend . Give a brief overview of racial discrimination in the USA. Persuade the readers to perceive racial discrimination as an act of human rights violation.
• Apollo 11 – the first spaceflight that landed people on the Moon . Discuss the importance of this event. Convince your readers about the significance of the Moon exploration.
• History studying should become the top priority for students. The knowledge of history may help to prevent mistakes from the past. So, persuade your readers to explore historical events.
• Holocaust should not be justified and denied . What are the horrible consequences of holocaust tragedy? Analyze an opinion regarding the denial of the holocaust. Persuade the readers not to support this idea.

⚖ College Persuasive Essay Ideas on Politics

• Civil rights of black Americans should not be limited.
• Migration should not be restricted because it has certain benefits to modern countries .
• In the battle of socialism vs. democracy , the second one should win.

• Nationalism in international relations should be accepted.
• E-government should become transparent and accountable for the citizens .
• Celebrities should stay aside from political activities.
• The laws for each state of America should become common.
• A voting system should be transparent.
• Ordinary people should not be allowed to own guns.
• The federal tax return process should become more manageable.
• Individual rights versus the common good . Express your position regarding the issue. What do you support: individual rights or common good? Persuade the readers to follow your ideas.
• Gay marriage should be allowed . If you don’t agree with the topic, express the opposing opinion. Elaborate on your arguments and provide counterarguments. Exclude harsh comments and offensive language from the narrative.
• The death penalty cannot be justified . Why do you think so? Give clear arguments to support your opinion. If you believe that the death penalty is justifiable, prove your position.
• Electronic voting in the United States should not be banned . Present the positive sides of this way of voting and convince the readers in your rightness. Don’t you agree with this opinion? Then, provide counterarguments.
• Abortion should be legal . Provide clear arguments to express your position. Or provide counterarguments to contradict the idea of abortion legalization.

👍 College Persuasive Essay Topics on Sociology

• Community services should be provided for mentally disabled people .
• Equality and diversity are the main social issues .
• Interpersonal communication skills are crucial in modern society.
• Gender inequalities in the 21st century should be overcome .
• Should the Canadian government legalize prostitution?
• Max Weber’s rationality theory should be accepted by society .
• China should take specific steps to overcome the overpopulation problem .
• Gender stereotypes in a family should be dismantled.

• Abusive relationships in a family should not be hidden.
• Implementing more tough punishments on the lawbreakers should reduce the crime rates of the USA.
• Does family promote or limit mobility? Choose one side of the issue and provide clear arguments to support your ideas.
• Divorce has negative effects on children . Do you agree with this statement? Convince the readers to accept your point of view by stating your position clearly and powerfully.
• Birth control should be monitored on a governmental level. Express your opinion regarding birth control in modern society. Conduct a study on the cultural, religious, and political aspects of the birth control issue.
• Is there the right age to get married? Decide if there are any age suggestions to create a family or no? Support your choice with bright ideas and appropriate examples.
• To resolve the conflict, we need to know the nature of the conflict . Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Provide strong arguments to make people believe in your point of view. How do you think psychology works while resolving the conflict?

💰 College Persuasive Essay Ideas on Economics

• Competing theories are the core of economic development.
• We have to consider John Locke’s and Karl Marx’s economic ideas nowadays.
• Demand and supply correlation in the market matters a lot.
• Adam Smith’s “invisible hand” concept can improve modern economics .
• If we want to stabilize the economy, we have to implement the monetary policy .
• Should big banks be broken up?
• We should consider the relationship between money supply and inflation while preventing the high level of inflation.
• We shouldn’t take the Keynesian explanation of the recession too seriously.
• Industrialization plays a significant role in economic development.
• Small business owners should receive financial support during the period of crisis.

• The governments should reduce monopoly power.
• The role of understanding the goals of human resource management in the context of human capital theory . Explain the significance of effective HR management for a business flourishing. Persuade your readers to invest enough resources in human capital.
• Exchange regimes have a significant impact on macroeconomic performance . Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Provide well-developed arguments to prove your point of view. Persuade your readers to accept your position.
• Consumer behavior is different in every country. If you agree, develop this idea by providing strong arguments. If you don’t, state your position. Either way, support your arguments with supporting evidence. Make your readers follow your opinion.
• The understanding of the basic concepts of economics is essential for every person . Explain how the knowledge of economics can help people to manage their money wisely. How to survive during the crisis? How to lead a business successfully, etc. Persuade your readers to study the basics of economics.

💡 Interesting College Persuasive Essay Topics

Are you already impressed with a diversity of topics our team collected for you? But don’t think that’s all we have to offer for you. Since our mission is to help you, we have more persuasive essay ideas for college to share.

Below, you can find more fascinating ideas for your assignments. For your convenience, we divided persuasive essay topics for college into several sections. Investigate our ideas and don’t hesitate to use them.

🚌 Transportation Persuasive Essay Topics

• Planes should newer take off if weather conditions are inappropriate .
• Never drive a car if you are under the alcohol or drug effect .
• Hybrid cars are environmentally friendly, so they should become the future of the transportation industry .
• Why should people study driving?
• The usage of alternative energy resources should reshape the global transportation infrastructure .
• The governments should invest enough money in public transport advancement .
• Cars usage should be regulated .
• A school bus should be checked at least once a month to ensure the safety of pupils.
• The reserves of petroleum should be replenished to provide a proper transportation industry operation.
• The shipping of essential goods during the state of emergency (quarantine, dangerous natural conditions, etc.) should be free.
• We should use public transport instead of private cars to save the environment.
• Hybrid engine vs. standard engine . Examine the positive and negative aspects of both of them. Which one would you prefer? Persuade your readers to support your opinion by giving clear arguments.
• Information technology influences the logistics industry to a great extent . Provide appropriate examples of the IT impact on logistics. Convince your readers of the importance of your opinion.
• The role of transportation in the development of tourism . Prove your audience that transportation progress has a direct impact on tourism opportunities.

• We have to reduce the use of crude oil in the transportation industry . What are the possible adverse ramifications of such oil usage? Persuade your readers to limit applying this type of fuel. If you don’t agree with the idea, express the opposing opinion. Elaborate on your arguments and provide counterarguments.

🌿 Environmental Persuasive Essay Topics

• The government should control the overpopulation to prevent consequences for the environment .
• Human activity should be limited to preserve biodiversity .
• We have to examine an ecologically sustainable approach .
• Alternative energy sources are essential for saving the planet .
• We should try our best to live a zero-waste lifestyle .
• Saving endangered species must be a top priority issue for environmental organizations.
• Solar energy can save the environment.
• Hunting sports should be banned because they harm biodiversity.
• The conservation of global resources is necessary for maintaining the lifecycle of the planet.
• Waste sorting should be mandatory all around the world.
• Stopping deforestation will prevent the loss of natural habitat for animals.
• Tourism negatively affects wildlife. Comment no the negative consequences of traveling on nature. If you believe that tourism does not harm wildlife, provide counterarguments to claim your position.
• Farming has to be wise. Explain how intensive farming damages nature. Convince your readers about the importance of following the farming rules. They can help to prevent intensive farming’s adverse ramifications.
• The Prime Days on Amazon should be banned . Explain how the incredibly low prices on items during the Prime Days result in extremely high costs for the environment. Persuade your readers to resist the desire to buy unnecessary goods from Amazon.
• Without rainforests, our planet will suffocate . Prove the significance of the preservation of the rainforests for the environment.

⚙ Technology Persuasive Essay Ideas

• Globalization influences computer technologies to a great extent .
• The government should implement Internet censorship .
• Cloud computing is an innovative era in computer science .
• Cyberbullying should be controlled to prevent a negative influence on youth .
• Dependency on computers is a considerable threat to human well-being .
• Data and information security should be a top concern of every internet user .
• Investing money in developing information technology systems is profitable for companies.
• The internet blocks the development of human intelligence.
• To prevent the development of serious illnesses, we should use genetic technology.
• Technological advancement should focus on the improvement of the health sector.
• We have to use technology wisely to make people smarter.
• A scientific revolution started the technological advancement. Convince your readers about the importance of the scientific revolution in technological development. If you don’t agree with the topic, express the opposing opinion, providing counterarguments.
• E-books or audiobooks will never replace paper books. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? State your position clearly and make your readers accept it.
• Nowadays, society is too dependent on computer technologies . Comment on its negative and positive sides in the life of modern people. Persuade the readers not to overuse technology in everyday life.
• Technology and science complement each other. Provide clear arguments to prove this idea or counterarguments to disprove it.

😃 Easy College Persuasive Topics

Do you think that persuasive essays have to cover only serious or global issues? Do you feel as if you have to be overwhelmed with the complexity of the subject? You are mistaken. A paper won’t become less successful if it explores even everyday life topics.

That’s why:

We prepared the next section of the article for you. Here you can find simple persuasive essay ideas for college students. Select a fascinating topic and compose an outstanding essay.

🎶 Persuasive Essay Ideas for College about Music

• Music has a significant impact on culture .
• Music preferences depend on personality type .
• Music can influence our behavior .

• Songs with lyrics that promote violent behavior should be banned.
• A musician is not just a job; it is a vocation.
• Medical workers should investigate the positive effect of music on mental illnesses’ treatment.
• Music can be helpful in the learning process.
• Good song lyrics can inspire people . Provide a sample of inspiring verses. How can it motivate listeners? Persuade the readers to pay attention to the song lyrics while listening to music.
• A guitar is always a good idea for friendly gatherings . Prove to your readers that several songs played on a guitar can create a warm and cozy atmosphere.
• Rap reflects violence. This is a generally accepted opinion. Do you agree or disagree with it? Prove your point of view by providing well-developed arguments.

🌍 Persuasive Topics for College on Traveling

• While traveling, health and safety issues should be a top priority .
• Tourism should be sustainable .
• A trip to India will make you see the world from the other side.
• Summer will become more memorable and fascinating if you travel.
• Traveling broadens people’s minds.
• Traveling with family or friends is an essential part of a happy life.
• Spending a holiday on a trip is always more pleasurable than in front of a TV or computer.
• Every person should visit Europe at least once in life. Explain why Europe is a must-see destination for every tourist.
• People should travel as much as they want. Persuade people not to resist the desire to explore new places by listing the advantages of traveling.
• Traveling is affordable for everyone. Persuade people to visit various countries, even with a limited budget.

✌ Persuasive Essay Ideas for College about Lifestyle

• Parents should be responsible for their children’s obesity .
• Proper nutrition and positive behavior prevent cancer .
• A healthy lifestyle prevents aging .
• Weight management programs and hypnotherapy are useful in maintaining good shape and a healthy organism .
• An active way of life should replace a sedentary lifestyle to prevent heart diseases.
• You should plan your weight loss process wisely.
• Well-balanced nutrition is a way to a healthy and beautiful body.
• Regular yoga and fitness will help you to maintain mental and physical wellness.
• Regular physical activities and enough sleep can help students to study better.
• Media influences the development of eating disorders . Explain the mechanisms media’s effect on eating disorders. Persuade your readers to pay enough attention to the information on social media.

📺 Persuasive Topics for College about Media

• The role of mass media in modern society shouldn’t be underestimated .
• Media affects the way people look at society .

• TV shows have a negative influence on children .
• Parents should control the effects of mass media advertising on teenagers .
• Professional psychologists should review every cartoon before being released on television.
• The information on the internet should be filtered to avoid the spreading of fake news.
• Censorship is a must-have for modern television.
• Old cartoons are more insightful than modern ones. Compare and contrast old and new animated films. Prove the usefulness of old ones. Convince the audience to make their children familiar with old cartoons.
• Social media develops an inferiority complex among teenagers . How pictures of luxurious life in social networking sites influence adolescents’ self-esteem? Persuade the readers to filter the information seen in social media.
• Mass media in the 1950s was more ethical than contemporary mass media. Analyze the ethical issues that are present in modern media. Why is following the ethical rules while sharing the information through the mass media vital?

🏫 Persuasive Essay Ideas for College on Teens

• Both abstinence and sex education should be taught in high schools .
• Professional psychologists or psychiatrists should treat anxiety disorders in children and adolescents .
• Cheating in schools should be strictly punished.
• Understanding teen depression is a crucial step in overcoming it.
• The federal government should enact anti-bullying laws .
• Bullying in school should be the main issue to deal with for the headteacher.
• The teenage period requires constant monitoring of children’s behavior by parents and teachers.
• Parents should have access to teenagers’ academic results.
• The mental health of teens is precarious. Convince the readers to monitor and maintain adolescents’ mental health.
• Parents should control social media usage by teenagers. Why should parents monitor the social networking accounts of their children? Explain why it is useful to teach teens how to behave on social media.

📚 Persuasive Topics for College on Literature

• Literature studying should be mandatory in schools.
• Literature teaches us how to live a worthy life.
• Robin Hood should become an example to follow.
• You have to read some books several times throughout life to get the idea.
• Lyric poetry may help in dealing with inner conflicts.
• William Shakespeare is an outstanding figure of English literature that should always be appreciated.
• Every person should have one book that will always remain their favorite one.
• The theme of Romeo and Juliet will always remain relatable. Support this idea by providing compelling arguments and examples from the play. If you don’t agree with the statement, present clear counterarguments to prove your point of view.
• The parents should read fairy tales to their children from early childhood. Persuade your audience to make their kids familiar with the fairy tales. Explain the importance of positive aspects of this genre of literature.
• Dorian Gray and Oscar Wilde are connected. Describe Oscar Wilde’s background. Analyze how the author reflected his personality in the character of Dorian Gray. Convince your readers to accept your point of view. Propose examples from the book and the author’s biography.

🖐 25 More Topics to Persuade College Students

Here you can find a pleasant bonus from our team—25 more ideas to write about. You can use them not only for essays but also as persuasive speech topics for college.

So, take the benefit of our list of topics. Show an outstanding academic performance in the college.

College Persuasive Essay Topics: Family

• A happy relationship should be based on trust and honesty.
• In small and big families, parents should treat their children equally.
• After giving birth, motherhood should become the primary concern of a woman’s life.
• Parents should be the most significant support for their kids when they are sad, confused, or lost in life.
• Children should take their retired parents to their home instead of the nursing home.

College Persuasive Essay Topics: Health

• Physical activity is an effective way to prevent heart diseases.
• People should quit smoking .
• Mental health is not less important than physical health.
• Well-balanced nutrition is key to a healthy body.
• Taking care of general wellness should be everyone’s primary concern.

College Persuasive Essay Topics: Medicine

• Strong pain killers should be sold by prescription only.
• Drug prices should be set ethically .
• Herbal medications are the safest.
• Self-medication is extremely dangerous, even in the case of a simple cold or an allergy.
• Differentiating various forms of medicines is essential . What is the working principle of a capsule, pill, syrup, etc.? Prove that the inappropriate application will not have an appropriate effect.

College Persuasive Essay Topics: Sports

• Visiting a gym is extremely useful for our health .
• Physical education should be mandatory in high school.
• Extreme sports are only for professional athletes.
• The governments should invest enough money in the development of sports schools.
• Football is not only for boys. Women can create a successful football team, as well.

College Persuasive Essay Topics: Religion

• Discrimination by religion or culture should not be acceptable in modern society.
• Every person should have a right to choose a god or goddess to worship.
• The representatives of different religions should be tolerant of each other.
• The attitude towards wealth in Christianity differs from the perception of wealth in Islam.
• Any other religious representatives should not criticize the central beliefs of Judaism .

Thank you for visiting our page! We hope the information was useful to you. Don’t forget to leave your comments and share the article with other students.

🔗 References

• Persuasive Essays, Writing Resources, Hamilton College
• Persuasive Essay Outline: HCC Learning Web, Houston Community College
• Choosing a Topic for Your College Essay: Essay Writing Center, International Student
• Choosing College Essay Topics: Accepted
• 35 College Essay Prompts and Topics: Kayla Rutledge, SignUpGenius
• How to Write a College Essay: Kelly Mae Ross, Devon Haynie, and Josh Moody for U.S. News
• How To Answer the 2022-23 Common App Essay Prompts: College Essay Advisors
• Writing a Political Science Essay: Charles King, Georgetown University
• Writing a Paper about an Environmental Issue: Frederic Beaudry, ThoughtCo
• Evidence: The Writing Center, the University of North Carolina, at Chapel Hill
• Introducing Quotations and Paraphrases: UNSW Current Students
• How Do I Write an Intro, Conclusion, & Body Paragraph: College of Literature, Science, and Arts, University of Michigan
• Essay Writing Guide for Psychology Students: Saul McLeod, Simply Psychology
• How to Write a Persuasive Essay: Writing Guides, Ultius
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Easy Persuasive Speech Topics

When given a task to come up with a persuasive speech , it is most often up to a student to pick the topic. Choosing the right topic for a persuasive speech is sometimes not such an easy thing to do as it may seem. The infinite choice often gets a student confused. Problem solution essay topics may help to clear things out.

In any case, it is always a better idea to work with a topic that is particularly close to you and that you have a genuine interest in, as opposed to just picking a random topic. Discussing something that you are familiar is not only more fun but also a lot easier.

To aid the student, we have compiled this long list of topics in a broad range of categories. The topics in our list vary greatly in their subjects but are equally engaging and exciting. We have included both classic persuasive speech topics done by millions of students and other people throughout the years – such as termination of pregnancy, firearm control, same-sex matrimony, public smoking, etc., as well as some of the more original that remain relatively uninvestigated – for now.

Here we go:

PETS AND FAUNA

Is it better to adopt a pet from an animal nursery or to buy one at a pet store?

Do some pets pose a danger to the community?

Should the owner get rid of a pet that has done harm to someone else’s health?

Should more kinds of animals be tamed and turned into household pets?

Is battery farming ethical?

Is factory farming too cruel to be legal?

Why is adopting a kitten better than buying one?

Is it a good idea to breed pets for sale?

How having a pet makes our lives better?

What makes a dog a perfect pet?

How having a pet affects a child?

How can one benefit from having a snake as a pet?

Why is it better to neuter your pet?

The amazing advantages of having your own horse

How having a cat benefits you?

Why is it important to safeguard dolphin populations?

Why we should not adopt forest animals?

How come some animals face the threat of extinction and what should we do about it?

CARS AND TRANSPORTATION

Should the familiarity with manual transmission be obligatory for getting a driver’s license?

What courses should one take before one can get a driver’s license?

How effective and safe are booster seats for kids?

If one should use the phone while driving, should one at least call hands-free?

At what age should people be allowed to drive?

What makes texting while driving unsafe?

How effective is it when the police chase cars?

What makes cars made in Japan stand out?

Why one should not drive sports cars in everyday life?

Is it justified to charge people money for passing driving tests?

How to optimize the street traffic to ensure the safety of bicycle drivers?

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

How advertising can mess with our minds?

How can advertising be regulated to make it more ethical?

Why should a business understand its target group(s)?

CONSTITUTION AND GOVERNMENT

Is it justified to detain people without any proper procedures if they are suspected of terrorism?

Is burning flags a valid form of protest?

Should silent prayers at schools be outlawed?

How should the government control and manage the turnover of alcohol and other narcotic substances?

Why should school students be given the right to refuse from prayers?

ECONOMIC ISSUES

Is it fair to tax imported goods extra?

Why is it important to buy locally manufactured or grown goods?

How free trade agreements affect the national employees?

Can a trade deficit have a dramatic effect on home economy?

Why is it possible and necessary to increase the income of workers?

Why is it necessary to test and re-certify school workers for their pedagogical skills on a regular basis?

Is it justified to offer free higher education to all applicants from financially challenged backgrounds?

Should high schools be put in charge for the college admission exams?

How should students caught cyberbullying be prevented or persecuted?

Should community service become an obligatory part of the high school curriculum?

Pros and cons of allowing school students to use their phones in school territory.

Should only honor roll students be allowed into school sports teams?

Why should art classes be enforced in all public schools?

Does it really make studying at a study hall less effective when you listen to music?

Why boys and girls mostly share classrooms these days and how this rule holds up?

Should soda and sweets be present in vending machines and on the menu at buffets in schools?

Is it justified to let gym grades affect the GPA?

Is it justified to shut down schools that underperform on test scores?

Should college admission officers run obligatory psychological tests on all applicants to evaluate them?

Should it be made illegal to drop students out?

Is it a good idea to complement the curriculum with obligatory life skill classes?

Should state schools be run only for taxpayers money?

Should we replace textbooks with laptops or tablets entirely?

How important is it to support education in other countries and why?

Is it effective to force underperforming students to repeat the class?

Should there be quotas for minorities when it comes to college admission?

Is it really necessary for every student to learn a foreign language in the USA?

Should students who are on school sports teams be free from the gym class?

Should computer science be made into a compulsory discipline?

Should the college be concerned about their students’ employment upon graduation?

Should creationism be taught at biology classes alongside evolution theory?

Is it outdated to count the given and received amounts of education in hours at class?

Should commercial advertisement at schools be allowed?

Do students have to ask for permission to go to the restroom?

Is it a good idea to add a handwriting class to the curriculum?

Would it make sense to start school an hour or two later in the morning?

Should students be allowed to leave campus for the lunch break?

Why a study hall is equal if not better than a traditional class today?

Can we justify a student who listens to music in class?

Should school field trips be restricted to our country?

Should there be a certain age before and after which one could not work as a teacher?

How many foreign languages should be taught to a student?

Is the implementation of new technologies at schools sufficient?

Why is music education essential?

Should college fraternities and sororities be expanded into high school?

Should the students' financial backgrounds influence the amount of financial aid that they earn by studying hard?

Is it necessary to add home economics to the compulsory curriculum?

Should more students be encouraged to choose Chinese as the foreign language to study?

The importance of studying Spanish at schools

If SAT scores don't influence the chance for being enrolled in college, then why do they exist?

The pros and cons of private schools as opposed to public schools

Does standardized testing truly contribute to equal opportunities?

Why should students be encouraged to take part in international exchange programs?

Why are some social groups deprived of proper education and why it needs to be fixed?

Is the PARCC test adequate and/or necessary?

How should children be prepared for school before they start it?

From which grade should study hall be introduced?

Should everyone try and go to college?

Why do the students get insufficient financial assistance?

What it takes to make high school education for one student possible?

Does the school year have enough time to fit all the curriculum?

Should anime be studied at schools?

Should higher education be made available for all the population?

Why is homework necessary?

Is the curriculum overloaded?

Is it a good idea to take a year off from studying?

Is the school buffet menu sufficient?

Should schools owe (and provide) the housing for their teachers and other employees?

Do we need more scholarships for minority groups?

Should we give more opportunities for alternative education?

Is education in prisons working?

How we benefit from accelerated learning?

Is education overpriced?

Should private education institutions be forced to offer scholarships of their own?

Is security at schools sufficient?

How can schools attract extra funding?

The ways to confront and prevent various kinds of violence at schools

The benefits of home education

Are training programs for adults adequate?

How many languages should an average student learn?

Should the Oxford comma be made optional?

NATURE PROTECTION

Are the existing regulations to protect the environment enough?

Should garden owners be allowed to grow exotic plants?

Why is it crucial to decrease the number of cars by enforcing public transportation?

Are we using our natural resources wisely?

The negative effects of pollution today

How making oil from algae will improve the environment?

Is hydraulic fracturing that dangerous?

Disposable diapers are a threat to nature

The positive effects of implementing hybrid cars

How is everyone personally responsible for protecting the nature?

How hazardous are oil spills to marine species?

Why we need to enforce recycling

The negative effects of single-use bags

How harmful is palm oil?

We need to preserve the environmentally sensitive regions

The long-run negative effects of oil drilling

Are fishing restrictions sufficient?

Why is it important to protect the rare species?

Alternative energy sources should be enforced more decisively

The regulation to protect ocean life are insufficient

How nature can benefit from reducing the use of paper?

Why the reckless use of natural resources is dangerous and why they should be conserved

ETHICAL ISSUES

Should women plumbers be paid the same as men plumbers?

Should we legalize euthanasia when doctors lack other options?

Are there better alternatives to death penalty?

Are stereotypes about certain social and other groups of people justified?

Is it necessary to test products on animals and/or humans before launching the mass production?

Should we try and influence our unborn children’s genetics?

Does donating to charities that help the poor improve the situation with poverty?

Why do women still have their genitals artificially deformed and why we should no longer take it

Why eating meat is not unethical

Why we should stop buying and wearing fur clothes

RAISING CHILDREN

Should parents be entitled to allow their underage children to drink alcohol and smoke?

Should there be parental guidance for music video clips and music television?

How harmful can watching R-Rated movies be for children?

Does it help to restrict teenagers from playing violent video games?

Why parents of child performers and sportspeople should be less pressing

Why family violence is never a good idea

How fairy tales help to raise a good person

The potential harm of playing R-rated video games

How daycare helps children to be social

Why children should listen to their parents

Why children should stay away from chat rooms in the Internet

Why we need to raise awareness about family violence

The harm we do by lying to children about Santa Claus, Easter Bunny, Toothfairy, etc.

Why women should not monopolize the pink color

FINANCE-RELATED ISSUES

Why should people be banned to wear hats and sunglasses at banks?

Why student loans need to be marked off in most instances

Why casinos at reservations are not as good idea as they seem

Is labeling genetically modified foods really helpful?

Why banning alcohol from being advertised on TV did not help?

Should every kid know how to cook?

Should cooking classes be added to the school curriculum?

Better things to do with unsold food products than throwing them to the garbage

Is adding sugar to food necessary?

How growing our own crops can improve our health and environment

Is there enough fruit and vegetables in our diet?

Genetically engineered food products are the future of humanity

How we underestimate peanuts

The amazing effects of drinking orange juice regularly

Are farmers’ markets that we have enough?

Can we get rid of the disease by switching our diets to exclusively organic food products?

Are the artificial chemicals in our food products that harmful?

STATE CONTROL AND RESPONSIBILITY

Should the Internet be controlled more strictly?

Should there be state-run websites where companies would be obligated to write about all of their job openings?

Is it the responsibility of the state to take care of the homeless?

Should the schools run by religious institutions get the taxpayers’ money?

Barack Obama’s portrait on newer dollar bills

How likely is Puerto Rico to be recognized as the 51 st State?

The imperfections of the US legislative system

Can the state interfere with what people choose to eat and drink?

How inflated is the military budget?

Should the state offer aid to everyone who claims they need it?

Where should we draw the line between local and federal governing?

Why are railroads so ineffective in the USA?

Local authorities neglect the problem of potholes

Are there any valid reasons for practicing eminent domain today?

Why drug-restricting regulations keep failing

Why is the zoning legislation ridiculous in its core

Should parents be informed if their underage daughter chooses to make an abortion?

Should aborted fetuses be utilized for genetic research?

At what age does it become healthy to use contraceptive medical treatment?

The American healthcare system is largely flawed and needs thorough revision

Does free distribution of condoms at schools improve the situation of sex-related problems among children of school age?

Exercise as an easy way to avoid health problems

All restaurants serving potentially allergenic ingredients in their meals should inform their customers thereof properly

How harmful fast food really is?

Why medical research would be rendered ineffective without animal testing

How effective are seat belts to prevent lethal casualties in traffic accidents?

How diabetes may affect your performance at work

The unpleasant consequences of skipping breakfasts

Is healthy fast food possible?

Is sex ed at schools effective?

Why we should consume as little salt as possible

Do we eat too much meat?

Why is the importance of good sleep underestimated?

School kids need to be educated about the prevention of rape and other sexual misconduct

How much soda can one drink without causing any damage to one’s health?

How junk food can be improved not to be junk

What happens if one works for several years without a good vacation

Why is it important to pick the right toothpaste

We consume too much sugar

Do we need more strict regulations regarding the advertisement of drugs?

Can we lower the percentage of suicides by legalizing euthanasia?

The underused potential of electroconvulsive treatment

The effective methods to withstand stress factors

The negative long-term and short-term effects of steroids for farm animals

Pros and cons of donating organs

The dangers of homeopathic treatment

The dangers of anti-vaccination ideology

How sleepwalking can be fatal

The hidden threat of vaporizers

The myth of electronic cigarettes being less harmful than tobacco

Why we should be skeptical about diet pills

What is Red Cross day for?

How donating blood benefits the society and you

The underestimated importance of drinking enough water

How to maintain a healthy diet without overdoing it

How few people can do a CPR

How you endanger others by smoking

Are there any 'easy' tips for staying fit?

Why and how should society confront mass obesity

Why are healthy food products too expensive?

The misused potential of gluten

How little do we know about side effects of popular drugs?

Do doctors get enough wages?

How high heels are bad for one's health

How we endanger ourselves by using tanning beds

Why prescription drugs need to be more accessible

The real and mythical dangers of smoking

Easy steps to keep your teeth healthy

Medical studies are dramatically underfunded

How to develop healthy everyday life habits

How laughing improves your health

Bike helmets save lives and should not be neglected

How having good friends can literally save your life

The deeds of the AA should be more advertised and appreciated

Medical care needs to be more accessible

How contraceptive treatment saves lives

Infectious diseases can be prevented more effectively

The health benefits of dark chocolate

Why positive thinking is good for you

How stomach stapling is being overused

Is it safer to chew tobacco than to smoke it?

Driving without seatbelts should be punished more severely

Do we know enough about food additives?

Until what age should mothers breastfeed their children?

Is binge drinking as great of a menace as it used to be?

Should teenage pregnancy be prevented?

What new factors cause teenage suicide?

Do we know enough about fire safety precautions?

Why people should donate their organs?

How to prolong your life without medical interference?

HISTORY IN GENERAL AND IN DETAIL

Did the USA drug their soldiers in Vietnam without their consent?

Do we know enough about the important figures from the African-American history?

What makes Abraham Lincoln a role model for all Presidents?

Why no nation should revise their history?

Why so many people believe that Neil Armstrong did not land on the Moon?

CROSS-CULTURAL AND INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

The USA should involve in international processes less

The actual dictatorships supported by the USA government

Should Catalunya be independent from Spain?

How independent can a country be?

Why should every nation seek to be independent in terms of energy sources

Is nuclear disarmament moving too slowly?

The USA should have never invaded Iraq

Is the UN as effective as it is supposed to be?

Whose responsibility is it to enforce human rights in regions where they are violated?

LEGAL ISSUES

How should drunk drivers be punished adequately?

Should we outlaw using a cellphone while driving?

Should any unauthorized use of music and films be outlawed?

Should an illegal immigrant be able to pass the driving test and get a license?

Should we outlaw driving motorbikes without helmets?

Should elderly people be allowed to drive?

What should be the legal age for driving?

Is it dangerous to keep the possession of deadly weapons legal?

Does forbidding the use of explicit vocabulary on TV in the daytime help its cause?

Is owing exotic pets regulated well enough legally?

Should one be able to sue a fast food joint if they become obese?

Would it help to introduce additional taxation for unhealthy food products?

It to rightful to outlaw public smoking?

Should English remain the only universally official language of the USA?

Why do some groups of people argue that abortion should be illegal and punishable?

Should gambling remain legal?

Do same-sex couples deserve to be granted the same rights as traditional ones?

Should being in a moving car without a fastened seatbelt be punishable more severely?

Is the current voting age justified or should it be lowered?

Should being too loud be considered a crime?

Should bullying be considered a full-scale crime?

Should recycling become mandatory?

Is it a good idea to legalize medicinal marijuana?

At what age should people become eligible for Social Security?

Was it a mistake to legalize abortions?

Is the current immigration legislation wise and fair?

The restriction of smoking in public places violates rights of citizens

Should military (or navy) service be mandatory for all the US citizens?

Why are laws against drunk driving ineffective?

Why same-sex couples should be granted same rights as other couples

Should it be legal for everyone to hunt

Is having death penalty as a practicable punishment justified today?

Should it be completely outlawed to employ the underage at any kinds of work?

LITERARY STUDIES

In what ways are books better than TV?

The positive impact of the likes of Twilight and Fifty Shades of Gray

Why is reading a good idea

Why media promotes certain beauty standards and how harmful it is

Do younger generations actually degrade due to the influence of the TV?

Should the teenage-oriented media be more careful about the messages they send to their audiences?

Has the Star Wars franchise and lore benefited after being acquired by Disney?

Children would treat TV more critically if Photography was studied at schools

Should age restrictions for TV shows be stricter?

How comic books are useful

How educational are educational TV shows?

Should TV be more education-oriented?

Public broadcasters are critically underfinanced

Violence, nudity and coarse language on TV needs to be regulated more strictly

The Cable TV market is too monopolized

How guitar music is better than synthetic

Lyrics in songs should not be censored

Music is the easiest and the most effective way to lighten up

How music contributes both to the individual and to the society

Music in MP3 format should be free as a promo material, whereas music in better sound quality formats should be for sale

POLITICAL ISSUES

Why is it dangerous to allow political parties to accept financial donations from large corporations?

The importance of every vote

Politicians should at least be fined for using personal abuse rhetoric

Why Bernie Sanders lost the primaries

LIFE SKILLS

Survival basics that everybody needs to know

Few simple rules of camping for everyone

How being clean affects your personal and professional life and wellbeing

PSYCHOLOGY AND SOCIAL STUDIES

How much is intelligence pre-determined genetically?

To what extent does our environment influence who we are

Can a “shrink” be trusted?

What is the purpose of love in our lives?

How much does your feeling of happiness depend on your financial state of affairs?

PERSONAL ISSUES

Are long-distance relationships possible via online means?

Are words of love gender-biased?

It is possible to maintain a relationship being far away from one another

How to know the person for real before marrying?

RELIGION AND SPIRITUAL ISSUES

Should religion studies be included in the curriculum of public schools?

Can students from religious backgrounds make their prayers at schools?

Why most religions are not ready to allow women be priests

Why are religious conflicts the fiercest?

Why every religion claims to be peaceful?

Why fundamentalist movements arise

How we decide whether a certain cult is dangerous

Why it is important to allow people practicing their religion or lack thereof

SELF-IMPROVEMENT

How to confront stress and depression using art

Zeal is the most important factor in mastering anything

Why we should not overthink our lives

Is there any 'simple' time management advice for everyone?

How to benefit from stressful situations

How your looks influences your success

Why personal development is never enough

Confidence is crucial to any undertaking

Being persistent will help you achieve any results

EVERYDAY LIFE

Should obese people be forced to pay for two seats at public transport or entertainment venues?

Would it be effective to restrict the number of children in an American family to a certain number?

Is it justified to obligate residents to clear their adjacent sidewalks from snow?

Will we get rid of drunk driving if we appoint a responsible police officer to every pub?

Is it justified to present senior citizens with free use of public transportation?

Is it a good idea to make a certain period of community service compulsory for every US citizen?

Should we join the rest of the world and adopt the metric system?

How should we deal with people who refuse to stand up for the pledge?

Is it the responsibility of a good municipal government to arrange free Wi-Fi spots all over the city?

What makes urban life better than the countryside one?

Why it is important to stay open-minded at all times

Should an education worker give up on a “hard” kid in favor of the rest of the class?

Internet connection should be free of charge for everyone

Paparazzi and stalkers violate privacy of other people too often

Human life has improved a great deal in past 100 years

Why stereotypes exist?

Why raising awareness about feminism and gender studies is crucial

Is it ethical to aim marketing campaigns to underage audiences?

Should convicts be able to practice their right to vote?

How justified is Social Darwinism?

Why are jails so overcrowded with convicts in the US?

Are the currently running campaigns against poverty effective?

Is it possible to prolong weekends by one day without compromising working efficiency?

Are imposed gender roles a thing of the past?

The implications of traditional "trick or treat" custom

Should the state provide homes to lonely senior citizens for free?

Why are public restrooms so messy and what should be done about it?

Are genetically modified food products really that harmful?

Bullying is a destructive social factor

Society imposes downright dangerous beauty standards

Being polite will get you everywhere

Why buying at Walmart should be avoided

How to bring good to your community right now

Lack of fair-priced residences is a serious problem

The holidays are too short for no good reason

What makes propaganda a hazardous weapon?

How excessive wealth corrupts people

Why elderly people need the opportunity to use public transportation for free?

How public transportation system can be improved

Why everyone should contribute to the community

Why should all the homeless be assisted with finding homes

Cyberbullying is a serious threat

What you achieve by supporting charities

People can and should retire at an older age than they used to

Censorship is suffocating the emerging information society

Foster parenthood should be more advertised and encouraged

The real reasons for equality

How can we help children with single parents

How to tame corruption at a country level

Why it is important to buy local goods

Security alarms are a simple thing that can improve our lives drastically

The importance of alternative penitentiary options

Lawsuits are becoming a circus and profanate the very legislative system

Poverty cannot be dealt with unless we invest more resources into the social system

Working hours in pubs need to be reconsidered

Police should be the last place to come across corruption

The society should show more support to non-working single parents

Female workers still usually have to work at lower wages than their male colleagues, and it is a big problem

Cosmetic surgery is abused as a result of poor regulation

Senior citizens today need more care than ever

Why some companies still maintain the infamous tradition of racial profiling

How can we enforce more respect to people’s privacy

Why the struggle for women equality advances so slowly

Why relations between various ethnic groups still leave much to be desired

Mass media are biased and subjective

Should support crew such as marching bands and mascots be regarded as sportspeople?

Is bike sharing more than just a fresh trend?

Should college team players be treated as professional sportspeople and be rewarded financially?

Are school teams overfinanced?

Why are women sports less interesting to the media?

Why drug tests for professional sportspeople are still not a must?

Is it fair that sportspeople earn such tremendous amounts of money?

Sports is about pushing yourself to the edge, and not about defeating others

Is it justified to reflect ethnical-cultural details in team names and other attributes?

Are cheerleaders as good sportspeople as others?

Why even the most professional team would have no chance with a name like Yellowfaces?

Why sports get so much attention?

Gym classes should be more focused on practical physical skills like swimming

Why professional sports should remain privately financed?

Are the existing safety precautions for athletes sufficient?

Physical training is overrated

Sure, as we know from diagnostic essay page, with such a huge variety of topics to choose from, picking just one may be a challenge. As we already mentioned, the trick is to pick a subject that appeals to you personally. This is one of the surest ways to approach any academic paper because it's going to be way more interesting to research the subject and because writing the actual paper will quite a lot of fun!

Still, figuring out the best topic for your essay is not your only concern as a student. The next step would be crafting a compelling thesis statement. As a rule, essay writers present their thesis at the end of the introductory paragraph. Further on, you will base your paper on this statement, so choose wisely.

> The best tip on constructing a great thesis statement would be to choose something that is not too obvious. This way, you will have a chance to hook your reader and make him/her interested in what you have to say on the topic.

The number of body paragraphs will mostly depend on the length of your paper. Normally, having three major arguments to prove your point is enough for a convincing paper. This, in its turn, will give you three body paragraphs, each starting with its own point. Make sure to use logical transitions between the paragraphs, though - do not just skip from one issue to another.

The last (and usually, the fifth) paragraph of your paper is the conclusion. Here, it is very important to restate your thesis statement. But remember - you should not do it word for word. The main point of a quality conclusion is to summarise everything you have written and prove your thesis statement either right (this is the most common approach) or wrong (it may sometimes happen in argumentative papers).

All in all, you can see that writing a persuasive essay is no brain surgery. Still, it would be hard to argue that the process requires quite a bit of time and concentration. Plus, if you are assigned a persuassive paper topics in one of the minor subjects, it may often be challenging to take some time off the subjects you're majoring in. Fortunately for you, there is always a way out. In this particular case, custom writing is the perfect solution that saves time and effort.

Our company has already helped thousands of overworked students from all over the world with their academic assignments. We deal with a vast variety of essays in social, exact sciences, and humanities. And the best thing is - each paper is assigned to a qualified expert in the area, which is why all custom papers written here meet the high educational writing standards, as well as student's particular requirements.

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My Speech Class

Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

212 Speech Topics For College Students [Persuasive, Informative, Impromptu]

Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class.

In this article:

Informative

For higher education, thesis statement examples.

List of Speech Topics For College Students

• How Schools Should Improve the Quality of Teaching.
• Why You Should Apply For International Exchange Programs.
• What to Do About Low Self-esteem?
• What You Can Do to Cut Poverty Rates.
• Refurbish your old computer PC!
• Seat belts in school buses increase passenger safety.
• Qualitative consumer market research give fundamental insight.
• Professors should never be allowed to crush a student’s dream.
• It is important for students to find organisations to get involved in.
• Students should take time to go visit their family and friends back home.
• Setting goals is important.
• Students must not be afraid to ask questions.
• Students shouldn’t be afraid to challenge a professor if they disagree with something.
• A study now and party later attitude should be adapted.
• Contrary to popular belief college kids do want their parents to fuss.
• Every college student needs a mentor.
• College students should start applying for jobs before they leave college.
• Students should spend more time enjoying their campus.
• It is important to be able to cook and do washing before starting college.
• Students need to make dorm check lists.
• Students should form study groups.
• Students should do extra credit.
• Students shouldn’t drink or smoke just because they want to fit in.
• Every student sharing a dorm or apartment should get themselves earplugs.
• Changing a major isn’t the end of the world.
• Students should make time to work out.
• Getting a job on campus is beneficial to a student.
• Students should write down questions that they need to ask the college tour guide.
• To get a true sense of what a college is really like students should visit while it’s in session.
• It is important to have study time scheduled into your day. Study time should be scheduled into a students day.
• A student’s syllabus is a wonderful tool that should be used to its full potential.
• Students should not be embarrassed to go see a tutor if they are struggling.
• Rewriting notes is a good way of reviewing study material.
• Students need to take breaks to do things other than just studying.
• Students should treat themselves to something they like at the end of very demanding weeks.
• Students should make use of student discounts.
• Being well organise will help students to avoid stress.
• The internet is full of great resources that are beneficial to students.
• Students can volunteer their way into scholarship money.
• Students should attend all the orientations available to them.
• Finding an ideal place to study is important.
• Academic advisers are key resources for students.
• When students don’t get along with their advisers they should request another.
• It is important that students have a balanced life.
• Never make hasty decisions on what to major in.
• Students should not procrastinate.
• Homesickness will affect even the students who could not wait to leave home.
• Students need to set up a budget and stick to it.
• Professors want students who want to learn, participate and show commitment to learning.
• Having a conversation with a classmate during class is an insult to the professor.
• Students should dress appropriately to class.
• Students should never turn in work that doesn’t follow their professors guidelines.
• It’s a good move to sit towards the front of the classroom.
• There should be a system in place to minimise students from dropping out of college.
• To save money students should make use of campus amenities.
• College students will need flip-flops in the bathroom.
• Students should visit their college counselling centre at least once a week.
• Students should take advantage of all the free activities on campus.
• Getting caught doing illegal things will be very bad for any college record.
• Students should register for classes as early as possible.
• Getting a job during the first semester isn’t a good idea.
• Study groups should be kept small.
• Students living in dorms should wash their hands often.
• College demands 100% effort.
• Parents shouldn’t yell at kids who no longer get straight A’s like they did before attending college.
• Students need to carry condoms with them at all times.
• Pregnancy shouldn’t be the end of a student’s college dream.
• Students need to realise that most people’s social media posts are exaggerated.
• High levels of pressure can lead to suicide.
• Students should never be told they are failures, even when they have failed.
• Virtual classroom will take over in future.
• Students who were raised by over controlling parents will have a hard time dealing with all the changes once they start college.
• Convincing a student to stay in college is very important.
• Long distant relationships do not work.
• Students should marry someone with the same level of education.
• Believing that everyone will mature in college is a myth.
• Students should always back up their files.
• Roommates need to have a good talk when they are having issues.
• Applying for a summer orientation position for incoming students will be good for a student.
• There is no need for a car in campus.
• Keeping a journal is a great idea.
• Going to career fairs is a smart move.
• Students should not over commit themselves just to look good on their resumes.
• It is important that students check their emails often.
• Becoming a Resident Assistant is a good idea.
• Libraries are a cool place to study.
• Freshman 15 is a real thing.
• Students should be careful about whom they borrow things to.
• Credit cards are not a good idea for college students.
• Shy students should attend a public speaking class.
• Students should take small classes with professors that write recommendations.
• A student should write a thesis even if they don’t need to.
• Opportunities to study abroad should always be accepted.
• College students should not go home every weekend.
• Internships are overrated.
• Students should take advantage of free tutoring.
• Most college friendships are temporary.
• Undergraduation does not mean you are not qualified for a succesful career.
• The majority of graduate students struggle with emotional fatigue.
• Legalizing prostitution will avoid campus date rape incidents.
• It is important for college students to take a Sabbatical.
• Every graduation student should obtain foreign experience.
• An online spell checker isn’t enough for your research paper essay.
• Censorship is needed in college and high school drama productions.
• Why you must sign the Student Pledge Against Gun Violence.
• Persuade the government to pay the basic healthcare of students.
• Do undercover FBI agents belong on campus?

College speech topics to attain indirect clues about themes intended to apply in higher learning presentations by little or less effort on the road to a successful presentation.

• Award or graduation ceremonies revealed from the backstage.
• How to become a cheerleader and transcend yourself to indispensability.
• Chemistry experiments and scientific breaktroughs.
• Horse racing and betting procedures – compare odds bookmakers.
• My plans for the future after I have completed this year:
• How spy sunglasses and airport bodyscans can see through clothes.
• Diving expeditions to shipwrecks that are buried on the ocean sand floor.
• Famous painters and paintings from the Golden Century.
• Favourite movie characters which are voiced by actors.
• Why meet and greet Asian people politely.
• Dining etiquette you must know for all occasions.
• Digital multitrack music recording works to compose top hits.
• Impress people at first sight – the psychology behind that adagium.
• What would you do if you should have an unexpected week off?
• What would you like to know more about.
• What is your favourite career field, something that make all the difference?
• Clothing styles and name brands for prom nights.
• Famous fashion or sports apparel designers – as seen on tennis tv shows.
• Your worst campus activities in the days your are off.
• Mountain biking is fun and earth-friendly they say, it is risky too.
• How I earn money with … (fill in a not ordinary student job)
• Enhance campus life in dorm rooms by nice pranks.
• Fashion trends this spring and summer, autumn and winter.
• Secrets of the Bermuda Triangle revealed.
• The hip-hop lifestyle is a no-life style.
• Dangers of a cyber relationship on shady late night moments.
• Start your own internet broadcast program in three steps.
• How to impress people at first sight.
• Ways to enhance campus life.
• The causes of the American civil war.
• How i prepared my trip to Europe.
• The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
• The Wonders of the Medieval World.
• The Natural Wonders of the World.
• The Wonders of the Modern Word.
• The Vikings Boats – The fighting fleet of prehistoric Scandinavia.
• The Samurai Warriors – Story of the Japanese military nobility.
• Bermuda Triangle – The haunted southeastern Atlantic coast area.
• Harry Houdini – The Great Illusionist and Magician.
• The most famous cities of the Maya culture.
• What are bar and bat Mitzvah.
• The travels of Marco Polo.
• What is an ISBN number and how it works.
• What is an eclipse.
• The secrets of crop circles.
• Yoga for beginners.
• 5 dangers of cyber relationships.
• The world’s time zones.
• How photosynthesis works in plants.
• Special tricks to remain focused during lectures.
• Sanction for students that are caught cheating around the world.
• Summer jobs for students.
• How our graduate system compares to other countries.
• Check list for leadership of student council members
• Graduation party ideas to impress your guests.

College speech topic inventory of logical action sequences for higher education students. All are broad and should be narrowed for a classroom speech. For example, Safe Sunbathing can be narrowed to persuasion on your personal tips on how to enjoy the sun safely on holidays.

Another sample: Homesickness. E.g. describe what it is, how it feels, what forms exist and what you can do about it yourself or with help from professionals.

Most and for all, read the higher education assignment rules and requirements very, very carefully. Do not take issues everyone will consider as overused.

Choose the one you like. When in doubt: ask friends or your public speaking professor.

Can We Write Your Speech?

Get your audience blown away with help from a professional speechwriter. Free proofreading and copy-editing included.

• College education years are absolute not the best years of our life
• Coping with anxiety in life
• Dealing with loss and mourning grief
• Honesty in college really matters
• How to communicate effectively at our campus
• How to cope with an autistic person
• The international diplomatic circus
• My motto: Learn from the past, prepare the future, and live present
• Limiting the promotion of alcohol diminishes traffic casualties
• My goals for the student council election
• The pros or cons of organ donating
• Safe sunbathing is a must in sunshine states
• Sports football vs. soccer, or other sports for another college speech topic
• Studying alone or studying with a group of college students?
• Why skipping classes can isolate a student socially.
• Ten rules for achieving successes
• Cheesy pickup lines you should not stick on your vehicle
• Funny awards and their meanings
• High Tech industry job opportunities
• Homesickness is not pose
• How to boost confidence in public speaking
• Handling your drunken roommate
• How to stay in touch with old college mates
• Money problems – this is a very hot college speech idea 🙂
• Problem drinkers and the problems that occur
• Human services in health care
• The Free Speech Movement
• Time management skills are no luxury these days
• What I will do when I retire
• Why movies are popular, or take one special movie that’s in and make a presentation of it.

The inventory can be expanded to many more. Here are three methods for developing:

• Look in the education resources you have access to for surprising new bare facts and background data sheets.
• And categorize the information in easy to do step by step instructions and logical educational action sequences.
• Ask college classmates and peers for their opinions, thoughts, ideas and needs on the chochosenllege speech topic.

These informative speech topics for college students are not only nice for preparing the best public speaking speech, but also for essay writing, I have noticed.

Some students who provide me feedback and additional tips, wrote that they have successfully adapted these five samples for writing and essay or paper.

The suggested sub-points are given to spark your imagination,; expand or focus them till they fit the requirements of the educational assignment.

Impromptu speech topics for college in case your are required to speak in front of everyone out of the blue about specific issues ad-libbing as public speaking training:

Second, use my basic outline template. Print it and learn the simple structure by heart. No worries, it is really that simple 🙂

Do keep it simple. Especially when you have to speak for let’s say a minute of three to five. To put it roughly: one minute per main point often will do the trick! Rehearse your first line.

Rehearse your last line; that is your relevant call to action. See more of my basic checks for speaking off the cuff when you are invited to do so.

• Show the essence of a college sports scholarship.
• Present the reasons why international climate change mitigation strategies will fall short. Tip: each of those reasons could be good by themselves.
• Decide the value of a BA or Master degree.
• Show similarities and differences of good college essays.
• Distinguish the economic differences between the North and South.
• Give a judgment of the positive and negative effects of video games on kids.
• Make clear what the word quality means under certain circumstances.
• Provide the detailed features of your new iPhone. Or take an alternative gadget for similar impromptu speech topics for college.
• List and judge the for and against of anti-doping programs in sports.
• List the steps to help making an informed decision about a future professional career.
• The usefulness of your public speaking training abilities.
• Make clear how and why people get a burnout.
• What is a final salary scheme in calculating retirement pensions?
• The value of information provided through school libraries.
• Why intelligence services must apply forms of domestic spying.
• The effects of industrialization after the invention of the steam engine.
• Teen girls are getting very liberal with sexual favors, no that’s a false understatement.
• Be a critic of impromptu speech topics for college of your public speaking instructor suggests.
• Wrap up the last meeting of your campus community board; any decisions taken for example about sports scholarships improvements?
• The interesting process of genetic reproductive cloning, by which an animal is created with the same DNA as an existing animal.

Speech topics for college students formulated as ready to go public speaking education thesis statements.

Just alter the sentences in the way you like it and there you are: you have your own personal slides and sheets writings for stirring the fire up somewhat and start a function or action based on the classic rhetorica essentials and oral hints for a higher education auditor.

Safety considerations related to school buses which operate under the supervision of the transportation authority boards.

Methods family genealogists use to research history and how they interpret data in an annotative critical perseverance way.

These are also very usable for starting up the thinking process for example essay writing and researching projects

• Mass vaccination is a good public health strategy for protecting people in potential disaster regions against cholera. Or of course choose other diseases to get stringent in content speech topics if you study for gaining a degree in a specific area.
• The concerns raised by the refurbishing of old computer PCs and recycling other consumer electronics.
• Sedation could be a humanitarian solution for transporting acutely or critically ill patients and diminish safety risk issues on the way to hospital.
• How a financial planner can identify those estate planning issues that are most forthcoming to you, and how you can solve many of the financial problems encountered.
• I have also grouped and explained the famous travels of Marco Polo in three periods for vocal expressions if you like to orate on a great adventurer of centuries ago.
• Consumer market research is an inevitable instrument to collect exact or valuable haphazard speech topics for college students data before you sell any goods.
• How the seventeenth century judicial system of Checks and Balances is constituated in the US Constitution based on the hypothesis and theories of the father of the modern state structures, the honorable French politician Charles de Montesquieu.
• Persons who are following a 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th grades course and who are gifted and talented should be provided with special education funds for high-achieving pupils, like the tropicana program for public speaking education.
• Common emotional problems with wills and trusts and ways to handle them adequately.
• There should be one uniform standard set of higher learning edu challenges in closing commencement rates with the same characteristics for similar bookworm populations.
• Employees have the responsibility to prevent sexual harassment, to response appropriate, and participate in misconduct investigations.
• The importance for college students, teachers, and instructors of improving social studies knowledge of controversial civic issues.
• You can distillate many college persuasive speech topics out of this topic for public speaking. Map out the food gap between developing and rich countries; the trends over time and how the United Nations Millenium Goal policy could cut poverty rates.
• The labor force population explained. The employed, unemployed and self-employed put into the context of the labor policy of our government. The problems, causes and possible solutions.
• How emerging India has become a serious international space competitive in the past years, and future topics related to India’s space race in the next decade.
• Why bilingual language education divides us Americans. Some persuasive speech topics for school to consider for public speaking students are: why every new citizen should learn both English and Spanish, or just another universal foreign language.
• Five ways to help the partially sighted or blind; visually impaired people in ordinairy life. Motivate your public speaking audience to act immediately!
• The National holidays other countries around the world celebrate with various names, traditions and cultures. Why do we have so much national holidays. Take some discutable ones and translate them into college persuasive speech topics.
• Husbands and wives should have the right to decide freely to have as many children as they can properly raise. The one-child policy in the People’s Republic of China is not acceptable for us in the Western Hemisphere? Or is it the only way to stop overpopulation?
• The goals of the science of Paleontology – what do students want to achieve with the studying of prehistoric life, olds stines and fossils. Are they sufficiently enough?
• Why we should help to prevent and to improve therapeutic treatment methods and extensive educational programs on stuttering. Do the existing methods work?
• The basics of risk management explained in detail – the determination, the prevention, and the control of dangers.
• Human body language is the one and only Cupido guide to success in dating; it reveals everything about her or him and of course about yourself.
• How to cut the expensive costs of dorm fees, books, food and transportation and have a good and relaxed campus life as well. Wow, these are real speech topics for college – it paves the path to many more supplements.
• Why a professional business and management liability insurance is not a luxury, but an essential need for each and every company.
• What every employee should know about earn gratuities and the related regulations and obligations under the Income Tax Act.
• Why we should buy an IPhone and why not – the pros and cons of the Apple invention explained for mobile phone dummies.
• Why so-called Pro Bono Lawyers are not philanthropically legal aid attorneys for charity. How they work on deductive premises – bring home the steps in the legal process – is an alternative option to work out.
• Human Papillomavirus and Chlamydia are the most common bacterial sexually transmitted diseases at college campuses and therefore actual public speaking speech topics for college students to deliver in class.
• Carbon monoxide poisoning or the silent assassin that can build up to dangerous levels while you are sleeping – describe the causes, the problems, the treatment and how it can be prevented.
• Stop the state and federal budget cuts to the deaf access programs and services for persons with a hearing disability. Or take other disability programs to make a personal and political statement.

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• 311 Remarkable Persuasive Speech Topics
• 311 Remarkable Persuasive Speech Topics to Convince Everyone

How to Choose Good Persuasive Speech Topic

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• Persuasive Speech Topics on Society

What is a persuasive speech

What are the three types of persuasive speech.

• Tips Crafting Good Persuasive Speech

Want to improve your class with astounding persuasive speech? Then you need to pick perfect persuasive speech topics and prepare for a rocking performance. This article includes information on writing a good speech to convince your audience.  But most of the text is a list of 311 topics for persuasive speech so you can easily proceed to choose the needed one. Enjoy! Also, remember that you can always buy essay from our academic professionals.

To choose an outstanding persuasive speech topic, there is no need to do in-depth research, as in the case with research paper topics . A successful speech depends on the chosen topic, so remember to pick the one among:

• Topics you are interested in
• Topics that would spark the interest of the audience
• Provocative topics
• Topics that are relevant to the audience
• Personal topics
• Interesting topics

To produce more persuasive speech topic ideas, college students should remember that the best persuasive speech topics should be:

• thought-provoking
• interesting
• clearly expresses writer’s point of view

We have created a list of the most interesting and relevant speech topics and divided them into categories to help you choose the topic that fits you the most.

• The core characteristics that will make you a hero.
• A laptop is one step ahead of a tablet.
• Violence in video games is dangerous.
• Journal writing occurs to be therapeutic.
• The use of school uniforms matters.
• Security cameras make people safer.
• Small class is better than a big one.
• Texting while driving is enormously dangerous.
• Dogs are better than cats.
• Fast food containers are harmful to the environment.
• Animal hunting should be banned.
• Night school benefits compared to day school.
•  Lenient immigration laws are better.
• Homeschooling is better compared to traditional schooling.
• How can lyrics impact human lives?
• How can religion and science go hand in hand?
• What is the difference in the efficiency of open-book tests and closed-book tests?
• Should endangered animals be protected?
• How to make recycling a required option in the USA?
• State colleges and private colleges comparison.
• How to become a millionaire?
• How technical training stands out of a college degree?
• Students should have the opportunity to choose a school.
• Is there any reason to go away with cars but go back to horses for transportation?
• Smoking should be illegal, especially in public.
• Should the ​death penalty be outlawed?
• Abraham Lincoln got too much credit.
• The drinking age in America should be 25.
• Should the replacement of fossil fuels with alternative energy options be mandated?

Best persuasive speech topics

• Recycling should be kept up.
•  Drivers should not text while driving.
• Towns should provide bike-sharing programs for free.
• Celebrities should not omit stiffer penalties.
• Teachers should renew their certification annually.
• People should not eat junk food.
• People should stop poverty and world hunger.
• Elders should be valued in our society.
• Money cannot buy happiness.
• Incentives for doing right are better than punishment for doing wrong.
• How have educational costs changed through time passing?

Need more ideas? Look through the list of debate topics and find something interesting. 

• Carpe diem!
• Become a donor — which organ would you choose?
• Should I start planning for the future?
• Be vegetarian — make a healthier lifestyle.
• College students and uniforms.
• Violence in video games.
• College tuition should involve parking, coffee, and homework.
• Marijuana should be sold in the US coffee shops.
• Losing weight is a perfect way to start a new life.
• As gas prices rose up, wages should too!
• Giving to charity remains to be good.
• The reality of total peace on Earth.
• How good should the first impression be?
• Electric cars should be cheaper and more affordable.
•  Middle class in America, does it exist?
• Blood donation is of vital importance.
• Luck and success relation.
• Is veganism classist?
• The complications of a surrogate mothercare use?
• Should single parents be allowed to adopt their children?
•  Marriage — an outdated institution in the modern society.
• Foster care system — pros and cons.

Make time and browse our informative speech topics to get more inspiration.

• Animal Research
• Animals Used in Research
• Animal Research Personnel.
• Animal rights
• Protection movement.
• Animal sheltering problems.
• Animal-assisted activities.
• Animals in literature
• Animals in poetry
• Animals in folklore.
• Benefits of animals to humans.
• Should health insurance cover art and music therapy?
• Should all college students learn an instrument?
• Should the country offer free national museums to citizens?
• Is graffiti similar to art?
• Should classic literature involve an offencive language?
• What are the benefits of paper books compared to the e-books?
• RT programs in public schools take an essential part of school education.
• Art relieves stress and reduces depression.
• What is “Philosophy of art”?
• What are the primeval musician instruments?
• How is the Apocalypse depicted by different painters? 
• The benefits of reading Harry Potter.
• Newest car models
• Hot models among crime spots
• Budget-friendly cars
• Practical cars
• Energy-efficient cars
• Car maintenance tips
• Best family-safe cars
• Car manufacturers
• Cars for college students
• Best car auctions
• Gear and accessories
• Managing People.
• Technology.
• Innovation.
• Entrepreneurship
• Leadership.
• Communication.
• Managing Yourself.
• Corporate responsibility
• Ethics & accountability
• Social entrepreneurship
• Economics and financial issues
• Productivity performance in National Bank
• How does financial issues affect the American economy?
• The most reliable predictors of financial and economic crises?
• Is there any relationship between the financial system and economics?
• Global financial crisis in 2020
• Economics is harder than finance
• Finance vs economics
• What will happen in the next economic collapse?
• Is there a recession coming?
• What is the prime indicator of upcoming recession?
• Does Trump do something valid for the US economy?
• The curse of Macbeth.
• Ancient Egyptians were smarter than modern people
• Great depression. (Consult: Great Depression essay .)
• Natural disasters & environment.
• Inventions & science.
• Mexican-American war.
• Should trans people be banned from the military?
• Does America need more freedoms?
• Should abortion be legal?
• Male birth control.
• Gun control.
• Religious freedom.
• Free market capitalism.
• Own political culture.
• International Security.
• Emergency Management.
• Ethical issues
• Honesty and integrity. 
• Carefulness.
• Objectivity.
• Confidentiality. 
• Respect for intellectual property. 
• Responsible publication. 
• Should students have plastic surgery?
• Should a student tell if he/she saw a friend cheating on an exam?
• Should a student tell if he/she saw a popular child bullying? (Take as an example our bullying essay .)
• Environment and nature protection
• Should parents have the opportunity to choose the gender of their unborn children?
• Should people own exotic animals?
• Should animal selfies with animal species be allowed?
• Should pit bulls be a part of a family?
• What is the most efficient type of renewable energy?
• Should plastic bags be banned?
• Should puppy mills be banned?
• Should fracking be legal?
• Should animal testing be illegal?
• Should offshore drilling be allowed in protected marine areas?
• Is Pluto a planet?
• Should the US rejoin the Paris Agreement?
• Career counseling.
• Ability grouping.
• Bilingual education.
• Adaptive physical education.
• Blended learning.
• Charter schools.
• Boarding schools.
• Retention policies.
• School choice
• STEAM vs STEM
• Overconsumption.
• Habitat destruction.
• Overpopulation.
• Biodiversity loss.
• Desertification
• Deforestation.
• Global warming. (Look at our global warming essay .)
• Climate change.
• COVID-19 pandemic
• Our urban world
• Law and legal issues
• Elections & campaign finance.
• Aeronautics and space.
• Banking and finance.
• Armed forces.
• Communications.
• Crime and law enforcement.
• Constitutional issues.
• Children's rights.
• Plea Bargaining
• Cross-cultural issues
• Family and social relationships.
• Child development.
• Language acquisition.
• Personality.
• Social behavior.
• Who should learn cross-cultural psychology?
• Key elements of emotions
• The subjective experience
• The physiological response
• The behavioral response
• Should genetically modified foods take place in grocery stores?
• Should vaccinations be a required option to attend public school?
• Should human cloning be leagal?
• Infections.
• Diabetes mellitus.
• Birth defects.
• Mental health and behavior.
• Injuries and wounds.
• Poisoning, toxicology, and environmental health.
• Metabolic problems.
• Credit cards harm college students.
• How does advertising impact the media?
• Should there be a compelling content in advertising?
• Advertising issues.
• How do commercials affect us?
• Ethical issues in advertising
• When ads are not ethical?
• TV commercials effects on American culture.
• Advertising impact on the culture.
• Social issues in advertising.
• Moral concerns about advertising.
• How does music impact fashion?
• Fashion is bad for American society.
• Dress and subculture identification.
• The military impact on fashion.
• Body image and high fashion models.
• Fashion in the Elizabethan era.
• Fashion and music: Trends in the 1980's.
• Fashion and music: Trends in the 2000's.
• Fashion and music: Trends in the 2020's.
• Understanding cycles of fashion. 
• Dress in modern democracy.
• The role of garments in ancient society.
• Tudor and Stuart fashion.
• Marketing high fashion.
• Social agendas and fashion
• Psychology, personal issues, and relationships
• Human cloning is immoral.
• Fame is harmful for health.
• Our prisons need reformation.
• Doctor-assisted suicide can’t be legal.
• Relationship Boundaries. 
• Spending Habits. 
• Relationship Needs. 
• Fighting Style.
• Relationship Fears. Pexels. 
• Each Other's Family.
• Violent video games should be banned.
• Modernism and religion.
• Black churches.
• Democracy and Islam
• Christianity and economics.
• Freedom of religion
• Church and social action.
• Church sex abuse scandal.
• Creationism.
• Homosexuality and religion.
• Intelligent design and religion.
• Political Islam
• Should American government increase the budget of NASA?
• Social media and human communication.
• Artificial intelligence development will help humanity.
• Alternative energy sources should be invested by governments.
• Individuals should have their own DNA.
• The world should invest money in technology to explore other planets.
• Communication technology
• Unmanned aerial vehicles.
• Emerging technologies.
• HealthCare technology.
• Technology, science, and innovation policy.
• Defense wins championships.
• Who is the best QB of all time?
• MJ or LeBron?
• The Best Team Ever.
• Pitching vs hitting.
• Tackle football in college.
• Boxing should be illegal.
• Should college athletes be paid for being a member of a sports team?
• Should all athletes pass regular drug tests?
• Should there be an equality between professional female athletes and male athletes in the same sport?
• Winning is not a prime goal as trying your best.

Persuasive Speech Topics on Society 

• Overpopulation. 
• Immigration stresses
• Civil rights
• Racial discrimination
• Gender inequality
• Health care availability
• Corporate culture.
• Aged staff and the workforce
• Apprenticeship
• Professional growth
• Career planning
• Child labor
• Domestic servants
• Drugs at work
• Workplace violence

Today, students get tons of interesting and not very assignments to write different types of academic essays. Sometimes, they have to prepare a specific type of convincing speech named a persuasive speech. This speech aims to persuade the audience to accept the speaker’s particular point of view.  

Most of the professors ask their students to prepare persuasive speeches with the intention of persuading and keeping the audience interested. In other words, listeners should take the speaker's point of view. There are three commonly used types of persuasive speech:

• Policy persuasive speech
• Factual persuasive speech
• Value persuasive speech

 Tips Crafting Good Persuasive Speech 

Once you have got the task to write a persuasive speech, you should keep in mind some useful tips for choosing a brilliant topic for your persuasive speech. Here are some of them:

• Keep your prime goal in mind
• Believe in something you are trying to persuade your audience
• Pay attention to the nature of your audience  
• Know your audience 
• Put emphasis on the audience
• Build credibility in a speech introduction
• Make sure to add a strong thesis statement
• Use a lot of examples
• Be emotional
• Practice a lot!

And don’t forget to choose the topic that is interesting for you, not overdone, relevant, and exciting. Make time and read our blog about writing inspiration . It is crucial for such a task.

Picking up the right persuasive speech topic matters a lot because you need to provide as much evidence and arguments as you have to succeed in convincing the audience. To get your audience interested in your speech, you should give them a strong reason to listen.  Brainstorm new topic ideas on the basis of our great top-300 list of the most efficient and engaging persuasive speech topics.

Need Help? 

  Do not waste your time wondering, just have a look at the perfect list of persuasive speech topics and grab an idea for your original topic. To make it easier and quicker, busy students ask for academic assistance, and our experts help them in handling their persuasive speech preparation!

Among tons of academic assignments each day, students often need to create an informative speech. Sometimes, the professor provides informative speech topics, but students should come up with this idea themselves in other cases.Most people get stuck when choosing the best idea for an informative spe...

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The choice of persuasive essay topics can be a tricky part of the writing process. Before making a decision, you need to ensure that the subject suits your personal preferences and fits your audience's expectations. Furthermore, search for available sources and see whether you have enough informatio...

Home — Blog — Topic Ideas — 130 Inspiring Persuasive Speech Topics For Students

130 Inspiring Persuasive Speech Topics For Students

Definition of the Persuasive Speech 

Before you explore various persuasive speech topics , let's take a quick look at the definition and learn what a persuasive speech is and how it can be identified in writing. As the title implies, a persuasive speech represents a type of speech that aims to persuade a person to believe in a certain concept or a notion. In some instances, a persuasive speech contains a call to action. A persuasive speech topic may deal with professional challenges, world events, and debates that can be political, commercial, legislative, or educational. Depending on what you study or research, the choices are basically unlimited! Therefore, let your inspiration run free, and ensure that you have at least one statement or argument that poses the ground for persuasion. Choose a certain idea, take a note about your take, and make it clear as you choose a competitive persuasive topic. 

How to Compose an Excellent Persuasive Speech? 

Regardless of what persuasive essay topics you may choose, specific structure rules will help you to achieve success and avoid confusion as you shape your ideas and make your speech inspiring and clear. Here are the main points to consider: 

• Choose a topic that inspires you and reflects your research objectives. 
• Narrow things down and do your best to define the goal of your speech. 
• Study your target audience and check whether your persuasive speech addresses their concerns. 
• Continue with the thesis statement representing your opinion or a certain notion. 
• Create an outline for your speech with the hook sentence in the introduction. 
• Provide facts from both sides of the debate. 
• Include at least three pieces of evidence for your writing. 
• Make a call to action in conclusion and repeat the main points. 
• Edit your speech for repetitions and grammar mistakes. 
• Proofread your speech aloud and check the readability factor twice. 

List of Persuasive Speech Topics 

Below is the list of 130 competitive persuasive speech essay topics you can use for brainstorming purposes as a speaker . Play with the wording of these persuasive speech examples , narrow things down, and choose the category that looks most suitable. 

Persuasive Speech Topics for College

Here are some persuasive speech topics college style that you will find helpful: 

• College education should be made free or funded based on academic merits. 
• The problems of college debt are artificial and can be resolved. 
• The secret to college popularity: why fashion still matters in 2023? 
• The colleges represent the best ground for social movements. 
• Social media use among college students can benefit their studies. 
• College safety should be increased, and the parties must have stricter control. 
• American colleges are better than most European institutions regarding career chances. 
• Hybrid form of learning is the future of college education. 
• College bullying and the reasons why the cases of harassment are rarely reported. 
• The best ways to overcome college depression and anxiety. 

Persuasive Speech About Art, Media, and Culture

Dealing with persuasive speech ideas , consider the field of art, media, and culture as one of the branches of science worth exploring. Here are some starting points worth checking: 

• Modern metal music has roots in the blues and classical music creations. 
• The older generation sometimes pays attention to the music we like. 
• Why do college bands remain popular? 
• The use of art exhibitions in colleges should be obligatory. 
• The cultural aspect of baseball popularity’s decline in the United States. 
• The wrong perception of wearing a hoodie: the cultural factor and misconceptions. 
• The use of social media helps to keep people alert to environmental issues. 
• Instagram influencers should not be considered journalists. 
• Video game culture should be considered a separate cultural trend. 
• Neuroscience and using artificial intelligence to write music will eliminate creativity. 

Persuasive Speech About the Economy and Work

Now, if you are majoring in Business Management, studying the Economy, or working in the Financial sector, the following persuasive speech ideas will be quite helpful in keeping you inspired as you overcome initial confusion: 

• The concept of third-world countries is outdated and must be eliminated. 
• Cryptocurrencies are damaging to the American economy. 
• The phenomenon of economic wonder in Iceland is only possible because of the limited population. 
• Economic education must be an obligatory part of each academic curriculum. 
• Economic disparity in Afghanistan is caused by the current gender policies. 
• Workflow issues can be eliminated with the help of LMS platforms. 
• The challenges of employment in the United States during the pandemic could have been eliminated. 
• Most social campaigns these days are driven by the funds provided. 
• There is a man in the middle in every economic executive plan in business. 
• What are the pros and cons of digital accounting systems, or why are pros speaking against them?

Persuasive Speech About Education

The problems encountered in education always remain a subject of heated debates as education poses a serious concern not among current learners and educators and everyone out there. Check these helpful topic ideas: 

• ADHD is an overhyped problem and can be addressed with the help of stricter discipline. 
• Dealing with PTSD and military veterans can be approached with the help of music education. 
• AI-based tools will never replace the physical teacher in the classroom. 
• Pandemic situation has shown us that virtual classrooms take away the sense of belonging. 
• Smartboards as the solution for shy primary school students. 
• The reasons why there is a negative bias concerning community colleges. 
• Why should you choose a Christian college for your education? 
• Handwriting is still an important skill that should not be ignored. 
• The pros and cons of the Waldorf schools education system. 
• Augmented Reality is a dangerous concept for middle schools. 
• The benefits of gamification in the development of cognitive skills. 
• The mechanisms that should be used for reporting teacher-student abuse. 
• The problem of gun control in the classrooms: do teachers have a right to carry a gun? 
• The racial prejudice in the business management schools in the USA: why it's still a problem.
• Colleges in the United States should offer free mental coaching sessions. 
• The reasons why every student should consider becoming an app developer. 
• The subjects that should be added to a modern college education. 
• The practice of exchange students leads to a lack of adjustability in the native country. 
• Females represent better specialists in the cyber security field. 
• The phenomenon of college athletes: why should they be treated just like anyone else? 

Mental Health Persuasive Speech Topics

Dealing with mental health subjects is quite complex. If you are majoring in Healthcare and Psychology, you must remember to be respectful and sensitive as you make your choice and portray a viewpoint : 

• Why is depression often overlooked as a serious mental health problem? 
• Social media addiction leads to negative body image issues and wrong perceptions. 
• The phenomenon of bloggers creates a false impression of instant success. 
• Childhood abuse recovery: why do the survivors often keep silent?
• Schools and colleges in the United States must introduce strict mental health screening. 
• The negative effect of violent media games on children. 
• British medical ethics versus American perception of mental health. 
• LGBT movement and dealing with mental health issues is a unique concept worth exploring. 
• YouTube mental health courses as a free alternative to commercial offerings. 
• Armed conflicts lead to prolonged mental health issues in the future. 

Business Persuasive Speech Topics

Business marketing and business management also represent a popular field of science for composing an excellent persuasive speech essay. Just take a look at these example ideas : 

• Why is starting a business as a college student worth it in 2023? 
• Digital marketing is always the problem of brand loyalty and switching. 
• Social media and website localization: why should modern businesses implement the practice? 
• Doing business in China: what are the cultural points worth considering? 
• Why joining a free business course online will make you a better learner. 
• The business aspect of the Black Lives Matter social movement. 
• The male vs. female perception of a successful business in the IT sector. 
• The use of virtual reality tools to study the target market: a fashion case study. 
• British versus American understanding of corporate ethics. 
• Politics have no place in the retail business. 

Medical Persuasive Speech Topics

The medical and nursing students will find these persuasive speech ideas quite helpful and interesting : 

• The problems of the NHS system in the United Kingdom.  
• The pros and cons of the ObamaCare healthcare campaign. 
• What are the best methods to overcome professional burnout for nursing personnel? 
• The most common challenges of the ER nursing department: ethics vs. personal safety. 
• The readiness for the future risks: analysis of the pandemic threats. 
• Covid-19 has helped to make our world a safer place. 
• Why should medical volunteering be developed in 2023?
• Technology is not always helpful if it's not accessible in remote areas. 
• Dealing with religious beliefs when offering medical help. 
• The limitations when reporting suspected abuse: why the changes must be introduced? 

Scientific Persuasive Speech Topics

In case you want to choose something complex and scientific, these ten persuasive speech topic offerings will help to keep you inspired: 

• Augmented Reality tools usage will help people with learning disabilities learn. 
• The link between the vaccination risks and the cases of autism among children. 
• The psychological aspect of using painkillers and the damage to the person's system. 
• Exploration of nuclear Physics remains useless for most people today. 
• The negative side of the Green Energy transformation. 
• Politics should have no place in the scientific community. 
• An ethical aspect of genetically modified foods is ignored because of the lower costs. 
• The scientific benefits of uniting physically challenged students with healthy learners. 
• The positive effect of blues music on the human brain: the cardio wave effect. 
• Social media changes how communication takes things to another level. 

Sports Persuasive Speech Topics

If you are a college athlete or majoring in the field of Sports Coaching and Recreational Medicine, you should consider checking these ten persuasive speech subjects that we have chosen for you: 

• The best ways to manage stress when you become enrolled as a college athlete. 
• Playing sports in college helps to eliminate depression and anxiety risks. 
• College sports must be an obligatory part of the curriculum without grading. 
• The history of college basketball in the United States helped to shape numerous subcultures. 
• The social aspect of sports and communication among middle school and primary school learners. 
• The use of sports to challenge substance abuse in the workplace. 
• Why does politics have no place in sports, and why should athletes be allowed to compete? 
• Tennis represents one of the best sports to help people maintain cardiovascular health. 
• Why should playing golf be made more accessible for people with low income? 
• Playing sports in college helps to address weight gain issues and improve a person's mood.

Family Persuasive Speech Topics

You can also approach the subject of family relations or talk about the values important to you. Check out these ten ideas below: 

• The values of the methodist church in the United States and their perception of family.  
• Stay Together For The Kids tour or how alternative rock bands contribute to family values. 
• The perception of family times during the Victorian Era. 
• Why is social media changing how children perceive their parents and grandparents? 
• Resolution of family conflicts can be resolved with the help of mediation techniques. 
• The psychology of domestic abuse in the Middle East: why are cultural points not likely to change? 
• The practice of boarding schools in the United Kingdom and overcoming homesickness. 
• The challenges of becoming independent when leaving home for college are overrated. 
• Family problems or growing up in a broken home should not be considered a reason for stigmatization. 
• The American Dream concept is still relevant for the majority of American families.

Persuasive Speech About Politics and Society

Dealing with politics and society may sound easy, yet it often asks you to narrow things down and provide data from both sides of the debate to keep your position clear. See how it's done in the ten political persuasive speech ideas below: 

• The concept of the Cold War is more relevant for our times than ever. 
• Celebrities should not become involved in political campaigns and stay true to the art.
• Most American television networks are run by private funds and offer biased information. 
• The phenomenon of West-Coast and East-Coast politics in the United States is artificial. 
• Politics and church should not mix, and why religion should not become a part of the conflict.
• Racial prejudice in the United States is rooted in wrong politics. 
• The cultural perception of Canada by an average American is often incorrect. 
• Marijuana use should be banned as a society cannot control it adequately. 
• School students should be allowed to vote, starting at 13 years old. 
• The use of political agendas in colleges should be banned.

Government Persuasive Speech Topics

Now, some students will seek something related to governmental studies or legislation as a way to create their persuasive speech essays. As a way to help you out, here are the subjects for speeches you can start with: 

• The U.S. government should raise the age limit for the use of alcohol and tobacco. 
• The controversies related to the military budget of the United States should be turned into a public discussion. 
• The concept of political immunity and diplomacy should be eliminated as it takes responsibility away. 
• The government should decrease immigration to the United States. 
• Politicians should have an obligatory education related to Law and Political Sciences. 
• Famous media personalities should approach the external politics of the United States. 
• Governmental support and the problem of cheating with college scholarships. 
• The problem of racial prejudice could be eliminated with the help of a different political agenda. 
• The concept of luxury taxing should not be obligatory for celebrities if they participate in charity campaigns. 
• The reasons why children should learn Political Science and government structure in school.

Discover Thousands of Free Essay Samples! 

Getting your persuasive speech done can be quite challenging, so we have created a list of new topics you may consider. Still, you should see the actual essay examples, which we are happy to offer! Depending on the subject you would like to explore in greater depth for your persuasive speech (or any other purpose!), you can always refer to our free database, where you can find amazing essays and topics.

Our website offers thousands of topics that keywords or subjects can check. These represent essays you can use for inspirational purposes as you compose your persuasive speech. If you are unsure about something , you can always get in touch with our team, and we shall happily direct you toward something that fits your academic objectives.

Read your grading rubric twice, or hit us up with your questions! You must be inspired by what you choose because it is the only way to persuade others. Make sure to clarify your point and convince your target audience that your thoughts and ideas are worth checking and following!

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220+ Persuasive Speech Topics For All Students (Updated 2023)

Whether you’re a student preparing for a class presentation or an aspiring public speaker looking to captivate audiences, choosing the right persuasive speech topic is crucial. However, the process can be overwhelming, with countless possibilities to consider. Fear not! In this blog, we’ll delve into the world of persuasive speech topics, unravelling a treasure trove of ideas that are both impactful and easy to understand. 

From pressing social issues to intriguing debates, we’ll explore a wide array of subjects that will not only engage your audience but also leave a lasting impression. So, let’s embark on this journey together, and unlock the power of persuasive speech!

Table of Contents

What To Keep In Mind While Selecting Persuasive Speech Topics

When selecting persuasive speech topics, it’s important to keep several key factors in mind:

Audience Relevance

Consider the interests, beliefs, and concerns of your audience. Choose a topic that resonates with them and is relevant to their lives or the larger community.

Personal Interest

Select a topic that you are genuinely passionate about. Your enthusiasm will shine through in your speech and engage your audience more effectively.

Knowledge and Expertise

Choose a topic that you have a good understanding of or are willing to research extensively. It’s important to present accurate information and back your arguments with evidence.

Controversy and Debate

Opt for topics that have varying viewpoints or invite discussion. Controversial subjects often spark interest and encourage audience engagement.

Impactful and Timely

Consider selecting a topic that addresses a pressing issue or has societal relevance. Topics related to current events or ongoing debates can generate greater interest.

Strike a balance between being challenging and respectful. Avoid excessively sensitive or offensive topics that might alienate or upset your audience.

Feasibility

Ensure that the chosen topic can be effectively covered within the given time constraints of your speech. Select a topic that can be adequately explored and supported within the allocated time frame.

Remember, the ultimate goal of a persuasive speech is to inspire, educate, and motivate your audience. By keeping these considerations in mind, you can select a persuasive speech topic that captures attention, encourages thoughtful discourse, and leaves a lasting impact.

10+ Religion Persuasive Speech Topics

• The Role of Religion in Shaping Moral Values.
• Examining the Impact of Religious Freedom on Society.
• Exploring the Controversy Surrounding Religion in Schools.
• Addressing the Need for Interfaith Dialogue and Understanding.
• Analysing the Relationship Between Religion and Science.
• Discussing the Importance of Religious Tolerance and Acceptance.
• The Ethics of Proselytising: Balancing Freedom of Religion and Respect for Others.
• Investigating the Influence of Religion on Gender Equality.
• Debating the Role of Religion in Politics and Governance.
• Exploring the Challenges and Benefits of Religious Pluralism in a Globalised World.

10+ Persuasive Speech Topics About Music & Fashion

• The Impact of Music on Mood and Emotions: Exploring the Power of Melody.
• Fashion Industry’s Influence on Body Image and Self-Esteem: Redefining Beauty Standards.
• Music Streaming Services: Revolutionising the Way We Discover and Enjoy Music.
• The Cultural Significance of Fashion: Celebrating Diversity and Expression.
• The Role of Music Education in Developing Creativity and Critical Thinking Skills.
• Sustainable Fashion: Promoting Ethical and Eco-Friendly Clothing Choices.
• Music as Therapy: Harnessing the Healing Power of Sound.
• Fashion Trends: Unveiling the Social and Psychological Factors Behind Their Popularity.
• The Evolution of Music Genres: Tracing the Influence of Historical and Cultural Movements.
• Fast Fashion: Examining the Environmental and Social Consequences of Disposable Clothing.
• Music and Memory: Exploring the Connection between Melodies and Recall.
• Body Positivity Movement: Challenging Stereotypes and Promoting Acceptance in Fashion.

10+ Arts and Culture Persuasive Speech Topics

• The Importance of Arts Education in Schools.
• Preserving Cultural Heritage: The Need for Funding and Support.
• The Power of Music Therapy: Promoting Mental Health and Well-being.
• Addressing Gender Representation in the Film and Entertainment Industry.
• The Role of Art in Promoting Social Change and Activism.
• Art Censorship: Protecting Freedom of Expression and Creativity.
• Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in the Arts and Cultural Sector.
• Art as a Catalyst for Economic Growth and Tourism.
• Exploring the Influence of Social Media on Art and Culture.
• The Impact of Art on Individual and Community Identity.
• Supporting Local Artists: Building Thriving Arts Communities.
• The Relationship Between Art and Science: Fostering Innovation.
• Art and Healing: The Therapeutic Benefits of Creative Expression.

10+ Government Persuasive Speech Topics

• The Importance of Voting: Exercising Your Civic Duty.
• Implementing Stricter Gun Control Laws for Public Safety.
• Addressing Climate Change: The Urgency for Government Action.
• The Need for Comprehensive Immigration Reform.
• Promoting Equality: Ensuring LGBTQ+ Rights and Protections.
• Combating Fake News: The Role of Government in Media Literacy.
• Raising the Minimum Wage: Fighting Income Inequality.
• Reforming the Criminal Justice System: Reducing Mass Incarceration.
• Protecting Net Neutrality: Preserving an Open Internet.
• Enhancing Access to Affordable Healthcare: A Government Responsibility.
• Regulating Big Tech: Balancing Innovation and Consumer Protection.
• Investing in Renewable Energy: Transitioning to a Sustainable Future.

10+ Family Persuasive Speech Topics

• The Benefits of Family Dinners: Why Eating Together Matters.
• Should Parents Allow Children to Use Social Media?
• The Importance of Teaching Financial Responsibility to Kids.
• Balancing Work and Family: Tips for Achieving Work-Life Balance.
• The Effects of Divorce on Children and Strategies for Coping.
• Addressing Domestic Violence: How Families Can Break the Cycle.
• Homeschooling vs. Public Schooling: Which is the Better Option?
• The Dangers of Helicopter Parenting and Letting Kids Fail.
• The Impact of Technology on Family Relationships.
• Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth in Family Environments.
• The Pros and Cons of Having Only One Child.
• Navigating Family Conflict: Strategies for Effective Communication.

10+ Environment Persuasive Speech Topics

• The urgency of reducing plastic waste and embracing sustainable alternatives.
• The impact of deforestation on climate change and biodiversity loss.
• The need for stricter regulations on air pollution to combat respiratory diseases.
• Promoting renewable energy sources to mitigate the effects of fossil fuel consumption.
• The importance of water conservation in the face of increasing scarcity.
• Addressing the detrimental effects of pesticide use on ecosystems and human health.
• Raising awareness about the consequences of overfishing and the need for sustainable fishing practices.
• The role of individuals and communities in combating climate change through small lifestyle changes.
• The significance of preserving and protecting endangered species from extinction.
• The importance of recycling and waste management in reducing environmental pollution.
• Promoting sustainable agriculture practices to ensure food security and protect the environment.
• The impact of urbanization on natural habitats and the importance of green spaces in cities.
• Advocating for stricter regulations on industrial pollution to safeguard environmental and human health.
• The benefits of promoting eco-tourism as a sustainable alternative to mass tourism.

10+ Sports Persuasive Speech Topics

• The Importance of Physical Education Programs in Schools.
• The Benefits of Youth Sports in Character Development.
• The Need for Stricter Regulations in Professional Sports.
• The Impact of Sports on Mental Health and Well-being.
• Promoting Gender Equality in Sports: Breaking the Glass Ceiling.
• The Dangers of Performance-Enhancing Drugs in Athletics.
• Addressing the Issue of Concussions in Contact Sports.
• The Role of Sports in Promoting Social Inclusion and Diversity.
• The Influence of Sports Sponsorships on Athletes and Teams.
• The Ethics of Animal Sports: Should They Be Banned?
• The Debate on Paying College Athletes: Fair Compensation or Exploitation?
• The Role of Sports in Fostering Teamwork and Leadership Skills.
• Promoting Sports as a Tool for Conflict Resolution and Diplomacy.
• The Impact of Technology on Sports: Enhancing Performance or Diminishing Fairness?
• The Significance of Title IX in Advancing Women’s Sports.

10+ Education Persuasive Speech Topics

• The importance of incorporating financial literacy in school curricula.
• Addressing the need for comprehensive sex education in schools.
• Promoting the benefits of arts education for well-rounded development.
• The significance of teaching critical thinking skills in the digital age.
• Implementing mindfulness and mental health education in schools.
• Bridging the gender gap in STEM education and careers.
• The value of inclusive education for students with disabilities.
• Promoting cultural diversity and inclusivity in educational institutions.
• Addressing the impact of standardized testing on students’ well-being.
• The role of technology in transforming traditional classroom learning.
• Promoting environmental education for a sustainable future.
• Advocating for comprehensive anti-bullying policies and education in schools.
• The benefits of bilingual education in a globalized world.
• Encouraging physical education and healthy lifestyles in schools.

10+ Scientific Persuasive Speech Topics

• The Importance of Vaccinations: Protecting Public Health Through Immunization.
• Climate Change: Urgency for Global Action to Combat Rising Temperatures.
• The Benefits of Renewable Energy Sources: Transitioning Towards a Sustainable Future.
• Exploring the Potential of Stem Cell Research in Advancing Medical Treatments.
• Artificial Intelligence: Balancing its Potential Benefits and Ethical Concerns.
• The Role of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) in Addressing Food Security.
• Space Exploration: Unraveling the Mysteries of the Universe and Expanding Human Knowledge.
• The Impact of Plastic Pollution on Marine Ecosystems: Seeking Sustainable Solutions.
• The Power of Meditation: Enhancing Mental Well-being and Cognitive Abilities.
• Human Cloning: Ethical Implications and Scientific Advancements.
• Nanotechnology: Unleashing the Potential of Tiny Innovations in Various Industries.
• The Influence of Social Media on Mental Health: Promoting Digital Well-being.

10+ Video Games Persuasive Speech Topics

• The Impact of Violent Video Games on Youth Behavior.
• How Video Games Promote Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking Skills.
• The Benefits of Video Games in Enhancing Cognitive Abilities.
• The Role of Video Games in Fostering Social Connections and Collaboration.
• Exploring the Educational Potential of Video Games in the Classroom.
• Addressing Video Game Addiction: Recognizing the Signs and Seeking Help.
• The Positive Effects of Video Games on Mental Health and Well-being.
• Video Games as a Tool for Rehabilitation and Therapy.
• Debunking Stereotypes: Gender Representation in Video Games.
• The Influence of Video Games on Body Image and Self-Esteem.
• Examining the Link Between Video Games and Increased Physical Activity.
• The Ethical Implications of Loot Boxes and In-Game Purchases in Video Games.

10+ Public Speaking Persuasive Speech Topics

• The Importance of Mental Health Awareness in Schools.
• The Impact of Social Media on Society.
• Promoting Renewable Energy for a Sustainable Future.
• The Need for Stricter Gun Control Laws.
• Raising Awareness about Climate Change and Its Consequences.
• Addressing the Gender Pay Gap in the Workplace.
• Combating Cyberbullying: Creating a Safer Online Environment.
• The Benefits of Implementing Comprehensive Sex Education in Schools.
• Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace.
• The Importance of Voting: Exercising Your Democratic Rights.
• Ending Animal Testing: Advancing Ethical Research Alternatives.
• Tackling Food Waste: Promoting Sustainable Consumption Habits.
• The Impact of Plastic Pollution on Marine Life and Ecosystems.
• Encouraging Organ Donation: Saving Lives through Generosity.
• Breaking the Stigma: Raising Awareness about Mental Illness.

10+ Medical Persuasive Speech Topics

• The Importance of Vaccinations: Debunking Myths and Promoting Public Health.
• The Ethics of Organ Transplantation: Balancing Supply and Demand.
• Addressing the Opioid Crisis: Strategies for Prevention and Treatment.
• Promoting Mental Health: Breaking the Silence and Ending Stigma.
• Advancements in Precision Medicine: Personalizing Healthcare for Better Outcomes.
• The Role of Telemedicine in Improving Access to Healthcare.
• Enhancing Patient Safety: Preventing Medical Errors in Healthcare Settings.
• Promoting Healthy Lifestyles: Combating Obesity and Chronic Diseases.
• The Benefits of Integrative Medicine: Bridging Conventional and Alternative Approaches.
• Exploring the Impact of Technology on Healthcare Delivery.
• Promoting Sexual Health Education: Empowering Individuals to Make Informed Choices.
• The Importance of Early Detection: Screenings for Cancer and Other Diseases.
• The Role of Medical Research in Advancing Treatment and Finding Cures.

10+ Business Persuasive Speech Topics

• The Benefits of Implementing Flexible Work Arrangements in Companies.
• Promoting Ethical Practices in Business: Combating Corruption and Fraud.
• The Role of Corporate Social Responsibility in Building a Positive Brand Image.
• Fostering Innovation and Creativity in the Workplace.
• The Advantages of Embracing Diversity in Business Teams.
• Harnessing the Power of Technology for Enhanced Customer Experience.
• Promoting Work-Life Balance: Improving Employee Well-being and Productivity.
• The Importance of Effective Leadership in Driving Organizational Success.
• Addressing Workplace Gender Inequality: Achieving Gender Balance in Leadership Roles.
• The Benefits of Investing in Employee Training and Development Programs.
• Promoting Sustainable Business Practices: Environmental Responsibility and Profitability.
• Exploring the Advantages of Implementing Remote Work Policies.
• The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Business Operations and Job Market.
• Nurturing a Positive Company Culture: The Key to Employee Engagement and Retention.
• The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Effective Business Communication.

10+ Mental Health Persuasive Speech Topics

• Prioritizing Mental Health Education in Schools: Nurturing Emotional Well-being from an Early Age.
• Overcoming the Stigma: Promoting Open Discussions on Mental Health in Communities.
• The Need for Increased Accessibility to Mental Health Services: Breaking Barriers to Care.
• Mental Health in the Workplace: Creating Supportive and Productive Environments.
• Raising Awareness about Suicide Prevention: Saving Lives through Compassion and Understanding.
• Addressing the Impact of Social Media on Mental Health: Finding Balance in the Digital Age.
• Breaking Down Gender Stereotypes in Mental Health: Encouraging Emotional Expression for All.
• Promoting Self-Care Practices for Mental Well-being: Nurturing a Healthy Mindset.
• Combating Mental Health Stigma among College Students: Fostering Supportive Campus Communities.
• The Role of Exercise and Physical Activity in Enhancing Mental Health: A Holistic Approach to Well-being.

10+ Persuasive Essay Topics About Animals

• The Ethics of Animal Testing: Finding Alternatives for Scientific Research.
• Protecting Endangered Species: Preserving Biodiversity for Future Generations.
• The Cruelty of Animal Circuses: Advocating for a Ban on Animal Entertainment.
• Animal Agriculture and Environmental Impact: Promoting Sustainable Food Choices.
• The Importance of Animal Adoption: Encouraging Responsible Pet Ownership.
• Ban on Trophy Hunting: Preserving Wildlife and Ecosystems.
• Animal Rights in Entertainment: Ending the Use of Animals in Films and Shows.
• The Ethics of Zoos: Rethinking Captivity and Animal Welfare.
• Animal Experimentation: Promoting Ethical Guidelines and Oversight.
• Fur Industry: Advocating for Cruelty-Free Fashion and Alternatives.
• Marine Captivity: Ending the Keeping of Whales and Dolphins in Theme Parks.
• The Link Between Animal Cruelty and Violence Against Humans: Strengthening Laws and Awareness.
• Factory Farming: Promoting Humane Treatment of Farm Animals.
• The Role of Animal-Assisted Therapy in Improving Human Well-being.
• Wildlife Conservation: Combating Illegal Wildlife Trade and Poaching.

10+ Persuasive Speech Topics for College

• The Benefits of Financial Literacy Education for College Students.
• Promoting Mental Health Support Services on College Campuses.
• Addressing the Issue of Campus Sexual Assault: Ensuring Safety and Justice.
• The Importance of Ethical Consumption: Making Sustainable Choices in College.
• Encouraging Diversity in Higher Education: Embracing Inclusion on Campus.
• Combatting the Rising Costs of College Education: Exploring Solutions for Affordability.
• Promoting Healthy Lifestyles: Encouraging Exercise and Nutrition in College.
• The Need for Comprehensive Sexual Consent Education in College.
• Fostering Entrepreneurship and Innovation in College Education.
• Empowering Students to Combat Fake News: Promoting Media Literacy on Campus.

10+ Unique Persuasive Topics

• The Power of Empathy: Cultivating Compassion in Everyday Life.
• Promoting Mindfulness: Finding Balance in a Fast-Paced World.
• The Benefits of Outdoor Education: Nurturing a Connection with Nature.
• Exploring the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence in the Modern Age.
• Building Stronger Communities through Volunteerism and Civic Engagement.
• The Importance of Financial Literacy: Empowering Individuals for a Secure Future.
• Unveiling the Truth: The Role of Media Literacy in an Era of Misinformation.
• Redefining Beauty Standards: Embracing Body Positivity and Self-Acceptance.
• Harnessing the Power of Positive Thinking: Cultivating a Growth Mindset.
• The Impact of Arts Education: Fostering Creativity and Well-Being in Schools.

10+ Economic Persuasive Speech Topics

• The Benefits of Implementing Universal Basic Income.
• Exploring the Impact of Globalization on Job Markets.
• Addressing Income Inequality: Closing the Wage Gap.
• The Role of Government Regulation in Promoting Fair Competition.
• Promoting Sustainable Economic Growth through Green Initiatives.
• The Importance of Financial Literacy Education in Schools.
• Exploring the Pros and Cons of Minimum Wage Increases.
• The Impact of Automation on the Future of the Workforce.
• The Economic Benefits of Investing in Renewable Energy.
• Examining the Effects of Trade Wars on Global Economies.
• The Role of Entrepreneurship in Stimulating Economic Development.
• Analyzing the Economic Implications of Immigration Policies.
• The Significance of Economic Diplomacy in International Relations.
• The Influence of Consumer Behavior on the Economy.
• Exploring the Economics of Healthcare: Challenges and Solutions.

10+ Ethics Persuasive Speech Topics

• The Ethical Implications of Artificial Intelligence in Today’s Society.
• Animal Rights: Promoting Ethical Treatment and Protection.
• Ethical Considerations in Genetic Engineering and Human Enhancement.
• The Ethics of Capital Punishment: Examining the Death Penalty.
• The Moral Dilemma of Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide.
• Ethical Issues Surrounding Privacy and Data Protection in the Digital Age.
• Corporate Social Responsibility: Ethical Business Practices for a Sustainable Future.
• Ethical Implications of Cloning and Genetic Manipulation.
• The Ethics of Animal Testing: Balancing Scientific Progress and Animal Welfare.
• Ethical Considerations in Medical Research: Informed Consent and Participant Rights.
• The Ethics of Privacy Invasion: Surveillance in the Name of Security.
• Ethical Challenges in the Age of Big Data and Data Mining.
• The Moral Debate of Physician-Assisted Death and End-of-Life Care.
• Ethical Implications of Human Trafficking: Combating Modern-Day Slavery.
• Ethical Issues in Globalization: Balancing Economic Growth and Social Justice.

How To Craft Persuasive Speech?

Remember, this is just a template, and you can modify and adapt it according to your specific speech topic and requirements.

An Example Of Persuasive Speech Topic

Title: the importance of volunteering in our community.

Introduction:

Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen,

Today, I stand before you to shed light on a topic that is close to my heart: the importance of volunteering in our community. We often get caught up in the busyness of our lives, but it is crucial to take a step back and recognize the profound impact we can have when we extend a helping hand. Through volunteering, we not only improve the lives of others but also enrich our own. Let’s explore how giving our time, skills, and compassion can make a lasting difference in our community.

Building Stronger Communities:

Volunteering fosters a sense of belonging and strengthens the fabric of our community. By working together towards a common goal, we forge meaningful connections and create a support system that benefits everyone involved. Whether it’s cleaning up local parks, organizing food drives, or mentoring youth, our collective efforts can transform neighborhoods and create a positive ripple effect.

Making a Difference in Individual Lives:

Each act of volunteering has the power to touch someone’s life in ways we may never fully comprehend. From offering a listening ear at a homeless shelter to tutoring underprivileged children, we have the ability to empower and uplift individuals facing adversity. Our actions can instill hope, provide opportunities, and inspire others to believe in their own potential.

Personal Growth and Development:

Volunteering is not just about giving; it is also an incredible avenue for personal growth. As we step outside our comfort zones and engage with diverse communities, we develop empathy, compassion, and a broader perspective on life. Volunteering allows us to hone our skills, learn new ones, and build a strong sense of self-esteem. It is an investment in ourselves that pays dividends in personal and professional spheres.

Addressing Social Issues:

Our community faces numerous social challenges, from poverty to environmental degradation. Through volunteering, we become agents of change, actively working to address these pressing issues. By dedicating our time and resources to organizations and causes that align with our values, we contribute to the collective efforts of creating a more equitable and sustainable world.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, ladies and gentlemen, volunteering is not a mere act of kindness; it is a transformative force that can shape our community and ourselves. By embracing the spirit of giving, we build stronger communities, make a profound impact on individual lives, experience personal growth, and contribute to solving societal issues. I urge each one of you to find a cause that resonates with you, explore volunteering opportunities, and embark on this incredible journey of service. Together, let’s make a lasting difference in our community, one selfless act at a time.

In conclusion, persuasive speech topics hold immense power to shape opinions, provoke critical thinking, and inspire action. Throughout this blog, we have explored a wide range of persuasive speech topics, covering social issues, ethics, and public speaking. 

Remember that when selecting a persuasive speech topic, it is crucial to consider the audience’s relevance, your personal interest, and the potential impact of the topic. Crafting a persuasive speech involves engaging the audience through a compelling introduction, presenting well-supported arguments, addressing counter arguments, and concluding with a strong call to action. 

By utilizing these techniques, you can effectively deliver a persuasive speech that leaves a lasting impression and drives positive change. So, embrace the art of persuasive communication, be the voice of change, and make your words resonate in the hearts and minds of your audience. 

Together, let’s harness the power of persuasive speech to create a better, more informed, and compassionate world.

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Persuasive Speech

Persuasive Speech Topics

Good Persuasive Speech Topics & Ideas for Debaters

18 min read

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Are you stuck searching for persuasive speech ideas that will truly grab your audience's attention? You're not alone.

Picture this: You're tasked with delivering a speech, and you're worried about making it memorable. The problem? Finding the right topic.

Fear not! We've gathered a number of persuasive speech topics, neatly categorized for your convenience. Whether it's for a competition or a project, we've got the right topics for you.

So let’s dive into the topics!

• 1. What is a Persuasive Speech?
• 2. Persuasive Speech Topics for Students
• 3. Science and Technology Persuasive Speech Topics
• 4. Environment Persuasive Speech Topics
• 5. Health and Medicine Persuasive Speech Topics
• 6. Mental Health Persuasive Speech Topics
• 7. Bioethics Persuasive Speech Topics
• 8. Economy and Work Persuasive Speech Topics
• 9. Persuasive Speech Topics About Media
• 10. Persuasive Speech Topics About Government and International Relations
• 11. Policy Speech Topics for Students
• 12. Law and Politics Persuasive Speech Topics
• 13. Persuasive Speech Topics on Business
• 14. Public Speaking Persuasive Speech Topics
• 15. Arts and Culture Persuasive Speech Topics
• 16. Religion Persuasive Speech Topics
• 17. Sports Persuasive Speech Topics
• 18. Persuasive Speech Topics About Automotive
• 19. Persuasive Speech Topics About Travel 
• 20. Persuasive Speech Topics About Music & Fashion
• 21. Easy Persuasive Speech Topics About Education
• 22. Persuasive Speech Topics About Workplace
• 23. Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics
• 24. Funny Persuasive Speech Topics
• 25. Persuasive Speech Topics About Animals
• 26. Controversial Persuasive Speech Topics
• 27. What Makes A Good Persuasive Speech Topic?
• 28. How To Create And Deliver A Compelling Persuasive Speech

What is a Persuasive Speech?

A persuasive speech aims to influence or convince an audience to adopt a specific viewpoint or take a particular course of action. It's all about using words to sway opinions, inspire change, and ignite a spark of conviction in the minds of listeners.

Components of a Great Persuasive Speech Topic

When crafting a persuasive speech, it's crucial to consider the three fundamental elements that make a topic truly compelling that are;   ethos pathos, and logos :

• Ethos: Establish your credibility and trustworthiness as a speaker. Your audience needs to believe that you are knowledgeable, sincere, and reliable in your stance.
• Pathos: Appeal to the emotions and empathy of your listeners. A persuasive topic should evoke feelings and resonate with the audience on a personal level.
• Logos: Build a logical and rational argument. Provide sound reasoning, evidence, and facts to support your position, ensuring that your audience can follow your line of thought.

Incorporating these elements into your speech topic will help you connect with your audience and effectively convey your message with conviction and impact.

Watch this video to learn how to organize a persuasive speech!

Persuasive Speech Topics for Students

Wondering what some good topics for a persuasive speech are? 

It can be hard to choose a perfect topic for your speech. But don’t worry, we have done the hard work for you. Just keep reading this blog, and you will get to know what are the good topics for persuasive speech.

Unique Persuasive Speech Topics for University Students

• Graffiti is the art of the future.
• A helmet is necessary for bike riders.
• People should not use their phones while driving.
• Easy steps for staying happy and healthy.
• Money can’t buy happiness.
• Wild animals should be tamed.
• Why we should have a balanced diet.
• Benefits of exercise. 
• Why should Black Friday sales start on Thanksgiving?
• We should learn from the wisdom of our elders.

Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics for College Students

• College education should be free for students belonging to low-income families.
• Psychological issues can never justify mass shootings.
• Following one’s comfort level is more important than the following fashion.
• Bragging about expensive possessions depicts immorality.
• The tax rate should be double for rich people.
• College students should be regularly provided with mental health counseling.
• Classrooms should have background music to help the students focus on learning in a better manner.
• Should athletes be paid less? 
• Cell phones should not be allowed in classrooms.
• People should not be allowed to change their names after high school.

Best Persuasive Speech Topics for High School Students

• Exchange programs make the students more appreciative of the world and different communities.
• Working part-time on weekends should be compulsory for teenagers.
• Introverts are the best motivational speakers.
• Modern youth have developed addictive personalities.
• Religious discussions should not be allowed in schools.
• Students should learn at least three foreign languages.
• Writing research papers is a better way of learning than tests.
• Money cannot ensure happiness.
• Positive thinking makes life easier and happier.
• Violent video games should be banned in the United States.

Science and Technology Persuasive Speech Topics

• The ethics of artificial intelligence.
• The impact of 5G technology.
• Space exploration and its value.
• Climate change mitigation technologies.
• Privacy in the digital age.
• The future of renewable energy.
• Genetic engineering and ethical dilemmas.
• Cybersecurity in the modern world.
• The impact of social media on society.
• The role of technology in education.

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Environment Persuasive Speech Topics

• The importance of recycling.
• Protecting endangered species.
• Reducing plastic waste.
• The impact of deforestation.
• Promoting sustainable agriculture.
• The need for clean energy.
• Combating air pollution.
• Conserving water resources.
• The urgency of addressing climate change.
• Preserving natural habitats.

Health and Medicine Persuasive Speech Topics

• The importance of vaccination.
• Mental health awareness.
• The benefits of organic food.
• Healthcare for all.
• The opioid crisis.
• The impact of fast food on health.
• The need for more organ donors.
• Alternative medicine options.
• Obesity and its effects.
• Access to affordable healthcare.

Mental Health Persuasive Speech Topics

• Organic foods are good for health.
• Junk food should be avoided to protect ourselves.
• A morning walk is essential for good health.
• A healthy diet has some great effects on the mind’s health.
• College cafes should offer only healthy foods.
• Alcohol and tobacco products have bad effects on health.
• People who smoke cigarettes are more likely to die early.
• Animal testing in medical research should be legalized.
• The amazing effects of eating a sufficient amount of vegetables and fruits regularly.
• Why is dieting not a good option to lose weight?

Bioethics Persuasive Speech Topics

• Bioethics in medical research: Standardized testing of ethical standards.
• Cloning and ethical concerns: Different points of view.
• Organ transplantation ethics: Examining various perspectives.
• End-of-life decisions and ethical dilemmas.
• Genetic testing dilemmas.
• Animal testing and ethics.
• Reproductive technologies: Ethical considerations.
• Privacy in healthcare and ethical principles.
• Human enhancement ethics.
• Ethical standards in environmental issues.

Economy and Work Persuasive Speech Topics

• Universal basic income for economic stability.
• The impact of automation on jobs.
• Raising the minimum wage.
• The gig economy and worker rights.
• Reducing income inequality.
• The future of remote work.
• The benefits of financial literacy education.
• Global outsourcing and job loss.
• The importance of supporting small businesses.

Persuasive Speech Topics About Media

• Advertisements should not be aimed at children.
• How the media is encouraging cyberbullying.
• The media is responsible for the moral degradation of teenagers.
• Certain TV shows should have an age restriction.
• How the media is helping to prevent corruption.
• Media could become an educational resource.
• The media is to be blamed for eating disorders.
• The media should not promote certain beauty standards.
• How advertising helps in promoting the product.
• Freedom of the press has gone too far.

Persuasive Speech Topics About Government and International Relations

• The impact of social media on modern diplomacy
• Should countries abandon national borders and embrace global citizenship?
• The role of international organizations in promoting world peace
• Government surveillance vs. personal privacy: finding the balance
• The pros and cons of foreign aid: are we really helping?
• Challenges of cybersecurity in an interconnected world
• The power of economic sanctions in international diplomacy
• Climate change: a global responsibility for every nation
• The role of the United Nations in resolving global conflicts
• Is globalization benefiting or harming developing nations?

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Policy Speech Topics for Students

• Ban car racing in mass pollution areas.
• Domestic Violence Drug Policy.
• Equal Employment Opportunities.
• Sexist images of women should be banned.
• Smokers should be treated like drug addicts.
• What should be the minimum age for the voter?
• Why should meals in school be free?
• Why invading North Korea is a no-go plan.
• Stop clothing and textile sweatshops.
• Punish severely pupils taking drugs.

Law and Politics Persuasive Speech Topics

• Charity is used as the source of converting black money into white money.
• Detaining people on the suspicion of terrorism is justified.
• Military service should not be compulsory.
• Physician-assisted suicide should be a punishable crime.
• Violent crime offenders should be sentenced to death.
• Illegal immigrants should be instantly deported.
• Foreigners should not be allowed to buy the property.
• Surveillance should not compromise the privacy of the citizens.
• Rapists and pedophiles should be hanged to death immediately.
• Burning sketches and flags during protests should be punished.

Persuasive Speech Topics on Business

• Why should businesses analyze their target groups?
• How do social media advertising techniques work?
• How to start a business with a little investment?
• Why should you not do business with a family member?
• Why do introverts make good leaders?
• Why does the HR department need to be polite and understanding?
• Why do sales and customer service departments need to be paid more?
• What does it take to be a successful businessman?
• What are small businesses successful and profitable?
• How to do business analysis before starting a business?

Public Speaking Persuasive Speech Topics

• Should schools still teach cursive handwriting?
• Should prisoners be allowed to vote?
• What is the best type of renewable energy?
• The danger of texting and driving.
• Why should you buy a Japanese car?
• Why should alcohol be illegal?
• More recycling should be encouraged.
• The trade deficit with China is dangerous.
• Should only native plants be grown in gardens?

Arts and Culture Persuasive Speech Topics

• Modern art lacks authenticity.
• Can action movies cause stress?
• Importance of art and culture
• The effectiveness of art and music therapy
• Should graffiti be considered art?
• Should art and music therapy be required for students?
• Should all students be required to learn an instrument in school?
• Is music therapy effective?
• Should art be necessary for students?
• Importance of performing arts 

Religion Persuasive Speech Topics

• The role of religion in modern society.
• Religious freedom and its limits.
• The impact of religion on mental health.
• The relationship between science and religion.
• Religious tolerance and coexistence.
• The influence of religion on politics.
• The rise of non-religious beliefs.
• Religious rituals and their significance.
• The effects of organized religion on individuals.
• Exploring the concept of the afterlife.

Sports Persuasive Speech Topics

• College players should be treated as professional players.
• Professional sports should be financed privately.
• Drug tests should be compulsory in all professional sports.
• The support crew should be considered sportspeople.
• Media and society are less interested in women's sports.
• Cheerleaders cannot compare with professional players.
• Safety precautions for athletes should be upgraded.
• Team names should not reflect ethnic and cultural affiliations.
• Sports means depicting your limit and not winning or defeating.
• Professional female players should get more opportunities for financial support than male players.

Persuasive Speech Topics About Automotive

• The minimum driving age should be 18.
• Everyone should take driving courses.
• What are the best car seats for pets?
• Drivers should avoid the usage of cell phones while driving.
• You should drive in your lane.
• Watch out for animals on the road while driving.
• How to travel with your pet?
• Are sports cars really dangerous?
• Bike and bicycle riders should wear helmets.
• Why are Japanese cars in trend nowadays?

Persuasive Speech Topics About Travel 

• The perks of being an air hostess.
• Tourism is ruining historical places.
• Traveling should be cheaper.
• Pets should be allowed to travel with their owner.
• You should visit a new place every six months.
• Switzerland is the most beautiful place on the face of this earth.
• Why you should not visit the Bermuda Triangle.
• Tourism plays an important role in presenting a better image of a country.
• How to travel to Mars?
• Airline tickets should be cheaper.

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Persuasive Speech Topics About Music & Fashion

• Should white people listen to rap?
• Jazz is an extinct music genre.
• Good song lyrics can inspire people.
• How do fashion trends differ in society?
• Jewelry defines your worth
• Marketing high fashion.
• Men shouldn’t wear pink
• Music has its own language
• Fashion and music are different from each other
• Fashion and music of 1987

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics About Education

• School or college bullies should be rusticated immediately.
• Coeducation makes students more competitive.
• Homosexuals should have separate educational institutes.
• Online teaching is not as constructive as regular teaching.
• Kids should be taught ethics and moral values in school.
• Schoolkids should be taught about the prevention of rape.
• Sex education must be compulsory in high school.
• How can we make social media more educational?
• Teachers should take a basic skill test every year to renew their certifications.
• Poor students should get a free college education.

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Persuasive Speech Topics About Workplace

• Interns should always be paid for their work.
• Part-time workers should have the legal right to claim annual paid leave.
• How to deal with bullying in the workplace?
• A friendly environment is important for the growth of a company.
• Everyone should do a retail job once in their life.
• Hardworking employees should be rewarded with performance awards.
• All employees should get basic first aid training.
• Everyone should learn basic survival skills.
• The theory has no importance if it can’t be implemented.
• Personal hygiene is essential for good health.

Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics

• Energy drinks are far away from providing energy.
• Watching television is more beneficial than reading books.
• Health benefits and transport facilities should be free for senior citizens.
• Confidence is the key to success.
• Urban life is more tiring and energy-consuming than rural life.
• Neutral behavior is the best coping mechanism.
• The first impression is never the last impression.
• Little conflicts strengthen and make relationships healthier.
• Credit cards should not be issued to people under 30.
• All US citizens should do community service.

Great Persuasive Speech Topics for Teens

• Nuclear disarmament is necessary to restore world peace.
• The salaries of single parents should be higher than for other employees.
• Cyberbullying is the major cause of suicide among youngsters.
• Stalkers and paparazzi should be sentenced to life in prison.
• Genetically modified food products are less nutritious than natural products.
• Why can’t we quit fossil fuels?
• Birth control pills worsen the health of women.
• Everyone should donate blood at least once a year.
• The media should not promote beauty standards.
• Foster parents’ homes should be regularly inspected.

Persuasive Speech Topics for Kids

• The zoo or aquarium should not be closed on public holidays.
• Uniforms should not be mandatory for public schools.
• Schools should have a free period for video games.
• My pet is very obedient.
• Why shouldn't kids play R-rated games?
• Why can't kids be Santa?
• Why do I love my dad more than I love my mom?
• Where babies come from.
• The worst fruit on the earth.
• How do rainbows work?

Persuasive Speech Topics Related to Food and Beverages

• Kids should not eat fast food.
• People are required to learn cooking skills.
• There should be a period for cooking in school and college.
• Benefits of growing our own vegetables.
• Benefits of eating fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Why we need to stay away from processed foods.
• Frozen foods are not good for health.
• Energy drinks do not provide any energy.
• Artificial sugary drinks should be replaced with fruit juices.
• An apple a day keeps the doctor away.

Funny Persuasive Speech Topics

• Funny pick-up lines help in the development of a serious relationship.
• Endless memes can be made on my mother.
• Life is troublesome due to your horoscope.
• Girls are more interested in diamonds than makeup.
• Guys are more interested in sports than their girlfriends.
• You are not enjoying student life if you do not procrastinate.
• It is your major duty to annoy your parents.
• Life is useless without indulging in troubles without your friends.
• Guys are more interested in gossip than girls.
• Never add your parents on Facebook.

Want to leave your audience entertained? Click the link and enjoy a list of entertaining speech topics !

Persuasive Speech Topics About Animals

• Taming wild and exotic animals is unethical.
• Emotional support animals provide several health benefits.
• Animals should have protection laws.
• Why do bunnies make the perfect pet even for a small apartment?
• Why do animals make the best companions?
• The benefits of pets.
• Why should emotionally disabled people have emotional support animals?
• How do service animals differ from emotional support animals?
• Why are dogs more loyal than humans?
• How do birds and fishes provide support to emotionally disturbed people?

Controversial Persuasive Speech Topics

• Animal testing of drugs is necessary for ensuring the safety of humanity.
• Cosmetic surgery, being an unhealthy obsession, should be banned.
• Human behavior is the product of society and not of nature.
• The death penalty is the only solution for controlling the crime rate in society.
• The legal age for drinking, driving, and voting should be set at eighteen years.
• Corruption and bribery run in today’s economy.
• Do you think immigration laws need to be revised?
• Job Discrimination based on Hair Color/Style.
• Our constitution should protect hate speech.
• Regulations on applying safety devices.

Family Persuasive Speech Topics

• Family traditions are important.
• We are over-scheduling our kids
• How to run a family business?
• What is the most beneficial parenting style, and why?
• Why do I love my family?
• Should schools do more to teach family values?
• Families should start every morning with yoga.
• Laws for child abuse
• Parents should teach their children to stay polite
• It’s okay to say no to children.

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What Makes A Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

To craft an effective persuasive speech, consider the following key factors:

• Relevance: Choose a topic that is current and matters to your audience. It should be relatable to their lives and interests.
• Controversy: Controversial subjects often make for compelling speeches. They engage the audience and spark discussions.
• Credible Sources: Ensure that you have access to reliable information and sources to support your arguments.
• Audience Understanding: Consider the beliefs and values of your audience. Tailor your topic to resonate with them.
• Clarity of Position: Your stance should be clear and concise. Ambiguity can weaken your persuasive impact.

How To Create And Deliver A Compelling Persuasive Speech

The following principles will help you choose persuasive topics effectively and deliver speeches that leave a lasting impact on your audience.

• Research Thoroughly: Gather robust evidence and data to support your claims. The more you know, the more convincing you'll be.
• Structure Your Speech: Organize your speech with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. This structure helps your audience follow your arguments.
• Craft Engaging Openings: Begin with a captivating hook, a story, or a startling fact to grab your audience's attention.
• Use Persuasive Techniques: Employ ethos, pathos, and logos to appeal to reason, emotions, and credibility.
• Address Counterarguments: Acknowledge opposing views and refute them logically.
• Practice and Feedback: Rehearse your speech multiple times and seek feedback to improve your delivery.
• Confidence: Believe in your message, and your audience will be more likely to as well.
• Engage the Audience: Encourage participation, ask questions, and use rhetorical devices to keep your audience involved.
• End with a Call to Action: Conclude with a clear call to action, telling your audience what you want them to do or believe.

Let’s sum it up!

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Good Persuasive Speech Topics for Students Who Don’t Lose

Julia de Raadt

Head of research and lead admissions expert, table of contents, how to come up with good persuasive speech topics in the first place, no matter what, don’t freak out – empowerly can help, the ultimate struggle.

• Wondering Where You Should Begin? Read On. 

Keep Your Personality in Mind as You Craft Your Argument

This should be something you feel strongly about, it’s simple – be passionate, where to look for persuasive speech topics, keep in mind that you will have to provide evidence, consider your audience, facing a heated audience, matching the level of education of your audience, good topics for persuasive speech are often controversial.

•  A Place to Begin

Check Us Out

Stay up-to-date on the latest research and college admissions trends with our blog team.

Preparing a persuasive speech but need an inspiring topic? Our blog presents a list of good persuasive speech topics specifically curated for students who want to make an impact. Explore a range of thought-provoking subjects, from environmental issues to social justice, and learn how to craft compelling arguments that engage your audience. Whether you’re a seasoned public speaker or just starting, our blog offers valuable tips and topic suggestions to help you deliver a persuasive speech that leaves a lasting impression. Discover your voice and tackle important topics with confidence using our guide to good persuasive speech topics for students.

Coming up with a solid persuasive speech topic isn’t always easy. Perhaps the stress has been building up for days. You’ve been trying to come up with a topic, but you keep coming up short. You’ve been racking your brain for something, anything interesting to persuade a willing (or unwilling) audience. 

If coming up with an argument for a persuasive speech topic is stressing you out, don’t worry. You are in good hands: Empowerly is here to help. 

Coming up with a solid persuasive speech topic or even a passable persuasive college admissions essay topic can be a struggle. This can be true even for straight-A students who may or may not have a penchant for argument. Coming up with a topic is a whole different ball game than arguing a fact that comes up in daily conversation. Don’t fret – we have you covered in terms of good persuasive speech topics, where to find them, and where to even begin a successful argument. 

Wondering Where You Should Begin? Read On. 

Persuasive speech topics range from the minute to the monumental. There are several different routes you can take when deciding on a persuasive speech topic. Above all else, consider your audience and the message you are trying to convey. We will discuss this more later on in this article. For now, brainstorm a few ideas that you’d be willing to convince a room of stubborn people you’re right about. 

When choosing persuasive speech topics, you should also consider your own personality and beliefs. Think about what drives you, what grinds your gears, or what really gets under your skin. If your argument doesn’t feel like “you” then you won’t be able to convince anyone that you actually believe what you are saying. 

Remember that your persuasive speech is about a topic on which you are trying to convince your audience to change their mind. This shouldn’t be something you feel lukewarm about, and it certainly shouldn’t be something you are not willing to research. Research is arguably the most important part of this process, and it isn’t something you should take lightly. Later, we’ll talk more about the research aspect of creating a good persuasive speech topic. 

It is undoubtedly more difficult to come up with a solid persuasive argument if you aren’t passionate about something, and it can be nearly impossible to do so if you don’t believe in the cause at all. On the other hand, if you are passionate about something, it is likely that convincing someone you are right about it will come naturally. 

Good topics for persuasive speech events are abundant, you simply have to know where to start looking. If you can’t find anything that really catches your eye, don’t worry. We’ll give you a few ideas below. You can also look in today’s news headlines, in your history book, or for an opinion piece that you disagree with. Just remember that no matter where you find your persuasive speech topic, you have to be prepared or nobody will take you seriously. Get out there and start looking (after you finish reading all of our exceptional hints, tips, and tricks relating to good persuasive speech topics, of course). 

It should be noted that good persuasive speech topics should typically be well-researched and documented. Find evidence linked to them that you can use to craft a strong, solid argument. Hopefully, there are a few key points that you can focus on in your argument. Knowing what those key points are will help you know where to start your research. If one point comes up sparse in the search engine, move on to the next. Eventually, you will find a key point or two that you can latch onto and use to craft a very compelling argument. 

As we mentioned before, when coming up with a good persuasive speech topic, you must consider your audience. Take into account your audience’s beliefs, demographics, and level of education. These factors all play a role in the way in which you craft your incredibly effective persuasive speech. 

If you know before walking into this that your audience feels heated and passionate about the topic, be prepared to face some degree of backlash. If this is the case, you will need to lean heavily on logic and reasoning in an attempt to dampen the emotions of your audience. With the right facts presented in a firm but friendly manner, you’ll be surprised at how effective your argument becomes.

It goes without saying that you may have a different level of education than those in your audience. This is unavoidable, but it does not mean that your message will be ignored. If your audience is more educated than you, learn the terminology, history, and semantics of your topic like the back of your hand. You need to be able to defend your argument and make sure that it sticks. 

On the other hand, if your audience has a lower level of education than you, simplify your argument a reasonable amount. At the same time, do not dumb it down. Simply explain it as though you were teaching your topic to a peer (because you are). Remember that if you cannot explain something in simple terms, the odds are that you do not understand it well enough to be making an argument about it in the first place.  

Something else that should be noted about good persuasive speech topics is that they are often more emotional. This is perfectly fine as long as you believe what you are arguing. The exception to this rule is if you are working on an assignment where your teacher or professor wants you to argue the side of the opposition. If that is the case, gather as much data as possible and center your argument on logos (logic) since the pathos (passion, empathy) won’t be there. 

Below, we will list a few good persuasive speech topics, but first, let’s talk about how to go about finding or coming up with a good topic on your own in the first place.

 A Place to Begin

Listed below are a few good topics for persuasive speech engagements. By no means is this collection of persuasive speech topics exhausting, but it may give you a place to start or an idea from which you can base your own persuasive speech. 

Here Are Some Good Topics For Persuasive Speech Engagements:

• Should undergraduate degrees be free? 
• Should there be a flat income tax rate? 
• Should hunting be illegal? 
• Should there be a minimum age to become president? 
• Should public schools be required to provide laptops or tablets for students? 
• Should social media be censored? 
• Should books be banned from public libraries?
• Should books be banned from school libraries? 
• Should schools have dress codes? 
• Should everyone be required to drive electric cars? 
• Should contraception be free? 
• Should there be universal healthcare? 
• Should marijuana be legalized? 
• Should parents or teachers teach students about sex?
• Should students be required to say the Pledge of Allegiance? 
• Should corporal punishment be allowed in schools?  
• Should high schools have open campus policies in terms of students being able to go off-campus for lunch? 
• Should colleges follow affirmative action quotas? 
• Should we have high-speed rail systems? 
• Should the government be able to seize land by reason of eminent domain? 
• Should people be required to use reef-friendly sunscreen? 
• Should parents be required to vaccinate their kids for them to attend public schools?
• Should pet owners be required to spay or neuter their pets?
• Should parents allow their children to have social media accounts? 
• Should parents post their children on social media?  
• Should the United States be a direct democracy? 
• Should everyone be vegan? 
• Should you have to have a valid form of identification to vote in the US elections? 
• Should the use of illicit drugs be decriminalized? 

Remember, the list above is not exhaustive. It’s just a place to begin. Find something that you feel passionate about and make sure that your speech is something you feel excited about researching. Then, research it to the moon and back, crafting an argument with facts and logic that can persuade even the most emotional audience, and give a persuasive speech that would change the mind of the most fierce opposition. 

Check out Empowerly’s blog for more tips and tricks on applying to college and growing your abilities as a student. Whether you are working on your college applications or just want to impress the college admissions team, Empowerly has your back. 

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Persuasive Speech

Persuasive Speech Topics

Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics & Ideas for Students

17 min read

Published on: May 2, 2022

Last updated on: Jan 31, 2024

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Are you tired of searching the web for the perfect persuasive speech topic? 

Sometimes getting started on your speech can become the hardest part.

This blog is your one-stop shop for engaging and thought-provoking speech topics that will captivate your audience. 

So, if you're a student preparing for a speech, this blog has got you covered. From controversial social issues to lighthearted topics, we've got it all. 

Let’s dive in!

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Components of a Persuasive Speech

The three persuasive speech and essay components are logos, ethos, and pathos. These elements made your speech more convincing.

Let’s discuss them in detail.

Want to get started on your persuasive speech? Give this insightful guide on persuasive speech writing a read to get a good start!

Good Persuasive Speech Topics

For a good speech, you need to find some good persuasive speech topics. A good topic makes a speech more influential and impressive. 

Here we have summed up an extensive list of some good persuasive speech topics. 

Persuasive Speech Topics for University Students

• Should there be a tax on religious organizations?
• Should priests be allowed to marry?
• Should there be a ban on the religious slaughter of animals?
• Should libraries be replaced with e-books?
• Should Bitcoin be recognized as a legal currency?
• Which country is the safest in the world?
• Is the idea of peace on Earth practical?
• Should advertising be aimed at children?
• Has freedom of the press gone beyond limits?
• How can public speaking help in building confidence?

Persuasive Speech Topics for High School Students

• Should community service be an obligation in high schools?
• Should school students be allowed to use their phones in school?
• Should art classes be enforced in all schools?
• Is the concept of co-ed acceptable? 
• Should soda and sweets be allowed in schools? 
• Does GPA actually matter?
• Is it reasonable to shut down public schools that are not performing well on test scores?
• Should college admission officers run psychological tests?
• Is it illegal to drop students out?
• Should textbooks be replaced with laptops or tablets?

College Persuasive Speech Topics

• Should schools still teach cursive handwriting?
• You can become a millionaire.
• Driving tests should be free.
• Is artificial intelligence a threat?
• Why are education costs growing progressively?
• The slow death of ancient art forms
• Are family traditions important?
• Is a college student receiving a scholarship?
• Stray animals are dangerous.
• Should women be allowed to be priests?

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Persuasive Speech Topics for Kids

• Using cell phones during the lecture allowed? 
• Why is it important to save money and understand its value?
• Should parents allow sleepovers without any insecurity? 
• Why is reading books more enjoyable than watching TV? 
• Small kids can have their own pets.
• Moving to a large city from the village. 
• Why should we eat healthy food and avoid junk food?
• Why is a war so scary?
• Do elementary school students obtain a fair amount of homework?
• Junk meals must be banned at school.

Persuasive Speech Topics on Health and Fitness

• The purchase of birth control should be allowed without their parent's consent.
• What is the importance of balanced nutrition for overall well-being?
• The government should put a tax on soda and other sugary drinks.
• High schools provide free condoms to students.
• Should the US switch to single-payer health care?
• Healthy people must donate blood regularly. 
• Why is it necessary to prioritize mental health and practice self-care?
• Boxing should be declared illegal.
• Schools should teach all students to swim.
• Should college athletes be paid for being on a sports team?

Persuasive Speech Topics on Ethics

• Balancing the benefits and ethical concerns of artificial intelligence and automation
• Examining the ethical considerations of genetic engineering and gene editing
• Rethinking animal testing and experimentation: ethical implications and alternatives
• The ethical dilemma of capital punishment and the death penalty
• Protecting privacy and freedom in the digital age: exploring the ethical implications of surveillance
• The Right to Die: an ethical debate on Euthanasia and assisted suicide
• The Ethics of human cloning and its potential impact on Society
• The boundaries of censorship and freedom of speech in a democratic society
• Environmental ethics and the challenges of climate change: responsibility and action
• The Ethics of War and Military Intervention: examining the moral justifications and Consequences

Persuasive Speech Topics on Technology

• How has technology improved communication in our daily lives?
• Is integrating technology in education beneficial?
• Why is it important to establish regulations on Internet privacy?
• How has technology positively impacted the healthcare industry?
• Are there any ethical implications of artificial intelligence and automation?
• Why should social media platforms take more responsibility for online safety?
• How has technology transformed the way we work and the future of jobs?
• What are the environmental consequences of electronic waste and how can we address them?
• Why should there be stricter regulations on data protection and cybersecurity?
• How has technology changed the way we access and consume information?

Persuasive Speech Topics on Video Games

• How video games can have a positive impact on mental health
• Examining the effects of violent video games on aggression and behavior
• Why esports should be considered a legitimate sport
• How video games can affect social relationships and communication
• Investigating the impact of video games on academic performance and learning
• Why video games should be recognized as a form of art and storytelling
• The potential dangers of video game addiction and excessive screen time
• The need for more inclusivity and diversity in video games
• Are video games a valid form of art and should they be recognized as such?
• The potential of video games as educational tools

Great Persuasive Speech Topics

• Should schools incorporate meditation and mindfulness exercises into their curriculum?
• Is it necessary to implement stricter laws and regulations to combat climate change?
• Should junk food be completely banned from school campuses?
• Is social media having a positive or negative impact on society?
• Should voting be made compulsory in democratic countries?
• Is it ethical to use animals for scientific research and experimentation?
• Should the legal drinking age be lowered or raised?
• Is homeschooling a more effective alternative to traditional schooling?
• Should professional athletes be held accountable as role models for their behavior off the field?
• Is it important to prioritize renewable energy sources over fossil fuels?

Persuasive Speech Topics for Teens

• Should schools start later in the morning to accommodate the sleep patterns of teenagers?
• Is it important for teens to have part-time jobs during high school?
• Should schools incorporate financial literacy courses into the curriculum?
• Is it necessary to include comprehensive sex education in schools?
• Should the voting age be lowered to 16?
• Is it important for teens to volunteer in their community?
• Should schools ban the use of cell phones during school hours?
• Is it necessary to address the issue of cyberbullying more seriously?
• Should the use of plastic bags be banned to protect the environment?
• Is it important for teens to have a part in decision-making processes that affect their education?

Persuasive Speech Topics About Animals

• Wild deer hunting should be banned. 
• All pets should be microchipped. 
• It is wrong to use animals in zoos and circuses.
• Beauty goods should be banned on animals
• Is it ethical to keep animals in zoos and aquariums for public entertainment?
• Exotic animals should not be kept as pets.
• The dog must be trained as a service animal. 
• It is unethical to crossbreed animals to get hybrids.
• Effects of poaching on the economy.
• Should pets be kept outdoors?

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics

• Should students have a longer lunch break?
• Is it important to include more physical education classes in schools?
• Should schools have a dress code policy?
• Is it important to have a designated study time at home?
• Should homework be banned in schools?
• Is it important to have a school-wide recycling program?
• Should students be allowed to use smartphones in the classroom?
• Is it important to have mandatory community service hours for high school students?
• Should there be stricter regulations on single-use plastic products?
• Is it important to have a mandatory life skills class in schools?

Funny Persuasive Speech Topics

• Should pizza be declared the official national food?
• Is it time to replace homework with playing video games?
• Should cats be given the right to vote?
• Is it acceptable to wear pajamas to school or work?
• Should chocolate be considered a basic human need?
• Is it time for dogs to be in charge of running the world?
• Should all schools replace math class with pizza-making class?
• Is it necessary to have mandatory "nap time" for adults?
• Should it be a legal requirement to eat ice cream every day?
• Is it time to establish a mandatory "funny hat" policy in all workplaces?

Fun Persuasive Speech Topics

• Are superheroes better role models than real-life celebrities?
• Should video games be considered an official sport in the Olympics?
• Is it better to be a dog person or a cat person?
• Should ice cream be served as the main course at every meal?
• Is it time to declare a national "Pajama Day" where everyone can wear their sleepwear outside?
• Should schools have a mandatory "Silent Disco" day instead of regular classes?
• Is it important to have a designated day where everyone speaks in rhyme?
• Should bubble wrap be recognized as the ultimate stress-relief tool?
• Is it necessary to have a "Dance Break" in the middle of every work or school day?
• Should pillow fights be considered an official sport with international championships?

Unique Persuasive Speech Topics

• Polygamy is not an illegal act. 
• Providing a judge with the sole power of decision-making
• Lesbian couples should not be allowed to have a child
• Can art therapy be an effective form of mental health treatment?
• Torture is helpful in the investigation.
• Learning a foreign language should be compulsory in high school.
• Legalizing euthanasia will benefit everyone.
• The merits of genetically modified organisms.
• A security camera is an invasion of privacy.
• CEOs’ wages are high without reason.

Controversial Persuasive Speech Topics

• Parents must be informed when their underage daughter chooses to make an abortion?
• Is it ethical to conduct genetic research on aborted fetuses?
• How can seat belts prevent fatal casualties in traffic accidents?
• Is sex ed at schools an important factor in personality building?
• School kids must be educated about the prevention of rape and other sexual misconduct.
• Can we lower the percentage of suicides by legalizing euthanasia?
• Should euthanasia be legalized for terminally ill patients?
• Is capital punishment an effective deterrent against crime?
• The myth of electronic cigarettes being less harmful than tobacco
• Why we should be skeptical about diet pills

Persuasive Speech Topics on Medical Issues

• The American healthcare system has a lot of flaws.
• Exercise can help you avoid health problems.
• Is it important to support and fund research on rare diseases?
• Is it ethical to use animals for medical research?
• Should the sale of sugary drinks and snacks be banned in schools?
• Should vaccinations be mandatory for all children?
• Can fast food be healthy?
• Why we should consume little amounts of salt.
• Do we eat too much meat?
• Why is the importance of good sleep?

Persuasive Speech Topics About Anxiety

• How can we create a more supportive and understanding environment for individuals with anxiety?
• Is it important to incorporate mental health education into school curricula to raise awareness about anxiety?
• What are effective coping strategies for managing anxiety in daily life?
• Should employers implement policies and practices that promote mental health support in the workplace?
• How can we reduce the stigma surrounding anxiety and promote open conversations about mental health?
• Should healthcare providers receive additional training on diagnosing and treating anxiety disorders?
• What role does social media play in contributing to anxiety, and how can we address it?
• Should schools provide more resources and accommodations for students with anxiety?
• How can we improve access to affordable and quality mental healthcare for individuals with anxiety?
• Should society prioritize self-care practices and stress reduction techniques to alleviate anxiety?

Environmental Persuasive Speech Topics

• Rain forests need to be protected.
• Is water a renewable resource?
• Natural disasters stimulate economic growth.
• Using plastic is self-defeating
• Recycling paper is going to save our planet
• Should oil drilling stop in Alaska?
• How can we address the issue of deforestation and protect our forests?
• Should stricter regulations be implemented to reduce air and water pollution?
• How can we promote recycling and waste reduction in our communities?
• Is biodiversity really at risk?

Sports Persuasive Speech Topics

• Does soccer need instant replay?
• Sport helps our mental well-being.
• Golf is a rich man’s favorite sport.
• Sports that involve animals should stop
• Professional sport is too commercial nowadays.
• Bodybuilding is inappropriate for women.
• Colleges spend too much money on their sports programs.
• Sports betting should be forbidden in any form.
• Toxic masculinity is ruining team sports
• The Olympic ideal needs renovation.

Public Speaking Persuasive Speech Topics

• Should self-driving cars be legal?
• Fairy tales are good for young children.
• Extracurriculars are a waste of time
• How much is screen time too much?
• Children should be allowed to choose their religion
• The drinking age in the U.S. should be 25.
• Does technology make kids lazy?
• Is homeschooling a good option?
• Is the idea of peace on earth naive?
• The Internet should be free for everyone

Business Persuasive Speech Topics

• Home businesses ruin family lives.
• Business will harden you.
• Why should we pay more to support small businesses?
• Every business should maintain a social media profile.
• Should companies embrace remote work as a permanent option?
• Why do introverts make good leaders?
• Make all bills and business correspondence paperless.
• Is Canada a good place to start a business?
• Should companies prioritize ethical sourcing and fair trade practices?
• Many small businesses focus on hiring the right people. 

Persuasive Speech Topics About Mental Health

• Are mental health concerns real in teenage students?
• How can we promote mental health support and resources in communities?
• Self-harming is a cry for help
• Should mental health treatment be free?
• What are the benefits of incorporating mindfulness and meditation practices into daily life?
• Should mental health education be a mandatory part of school curriculum?
• College cafes should offer only healthy foods.
• The negative impact of steroids
• What are the reasons for rising mental illness?
• What are effective strategies for promoting mental well-being in the workplace?

Education Persuasive Speech Topics

• Technology must be used in schools.
• Electronic learning should be encouraged
• Do you think that college should be free?
• Being a teacher is a privileged position
• Should high schools have a later start time?
• Should technology be integrated into classrooms as a learning tool?
• What are the benefits of inclusive education for students with disabilities?
• Should financial literacy be a mandatory part of the school curriculum?
• Education makes us happier people.
• Cursive writing shouldn't be taught in schools.

Family Persuasive Speech Topics

• Reasons why children need a family pet.
• Eating together as a family is important
• How to run a business with your family?
• What is the most beneficial parenting style, and why?
• How can we promote better work-life balance for parents and caregivers?
• Should there be stricter regulations on advertising targeting children?
• What are the benefits of shared parenting and co-parenting arrangements?
• Should grandparents have legally enforceable visitation rights?
• Should school do more to teach family values?
• The youngest child in the family is the most spoilt

Government Persuasive Speech Topics

• Why should you vote?
• Is it right for the government to fund partisan organizations?
• The government should cooperate with China.
• Should the U.S. have open borders?
• Should government authorities be tested for drugs?
• Should smokers pay a health tax?
• Government should regulate internet usage
• Who is the best/worst president of all time?
• Parliamentary terms need to be limited.
• Should voting be made compulsory?

How to Choose a Persuasive Speech Topic?

Picking up a topic for a persuasive speech is not simple. However, the following are some simple steps that could be considered when deciding on your speech topic.

• Choose a Familiar Topic To write a speech, choose a unique topic but make sure that you have at least some knowledge about the topic.  A familiar topic will make the writing process easy. It will also make it easy for you to make the listeners understand your point of view. 
• Follow Your Interest It's best to choose a topic in which you are genuinely interested. Writing a speech involves a lot of research work as you have to collect factual data.  An interesting topic would make the research process easy for you, and you will easily deliver it to the audience. 
• Consider Your Audience's Interests The target audience plays a major in the success of your speech. If they find the topic interesting, it is highly probable that they will immediately agree with your point of view. Do not choose a topic that is purely according to your mindset. Consider the interest level of your intended audience as well. 
• Create Visual Impact Choose a topic that allows you to be more descriptive and expressive. It will allow the audience to visualize an image in mind, which will tend to persuade them more.
• Avoid Overdone Topics When a discussion revolves around a certain topic repeatedly, the audience gets bored. They lose all interest in listening to what you are saying.  Avoid repeating the topics as it will make it very difficult for you to keep the listeners engaged.
• Tap into Emotions Emotions are real game-changers and motivators. There is a high chance that your intended audience will get more influenced by an emotional topic. Choosing an emotional topic would add an extra spark to your speech. 
• Relate to Your Audience People prefer to hear about something that is related to their life or situation. So, consider your target audience and choose a topic related to their community, profession, or culture. 

You might look into newspapers or other news sources to find such topics. You might also look into some unique debate topics. They might help you pick a topic and modify it for your persuasive speech. 

Persuasive speeches can be difficult to compose as one needs strong intellectual skills and very good writing skills. Plus, writing a speech is a time-consuming task as it is all about researching and writing. 

Avoid all this stress and load; just let a professional writing service help you. At CollegeEssay.org , we help you write a strong and effective persuasive speech. 

We have an extensive team of professional writers and a customer support team. They are available around the clock to take care of your queries.

Place your order now and get the essay help you need at the best price. 

Caleb S. (Literature, Marketing)

Caleb S. has extensive experience in writing and holds a Masters from Oxford University. He takes great satisfaction in helping students exceed their academic goals. Caleb always puts the needs of his clients first and is dedicated to providing quality service.

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125+ Persuasive Speech Topics To Amaze Your Audience

Reviewed by:

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 12/15/23

This article provides a comprehensive list of persuasive speech topics and answers to some of your frequently asked questions about speech topics. 

Persuasive writing is hard, and it’s even harder to try to come up with an engaging topic that interests you and your audience. 

Not only do you have to convince your audience to take your side on subjects that are often pretty divisive, you also have to persuade them to take your side of the argument. The first step to making a successful persuasive speech that will amaze your audience is having a strong topic.  

Keep reading for 125+ persuasive speech topics. 

125+ Topics for a Persuasive Speech

Persuasive speech ideas are harder to come up with than you may think. There is a fine balance between interesting your audience, interesting to you, unique and fresh, all while being thought-provoking without being outright offensive. 

Here is a breakdown of various topics for persuasive speeches, organized by categories, to inspire you. 

1. Arts & Culture

Art and culture are always hot topics amongst individuals and groups. There are many interesting arguments and stances on both topics, and many people have strong opinions when it comes to the subject matter. 

See below for prompts for persuasive speeches about art and culture: 

• Is graffiti art? 
• Should art classes be mandatory for all students?
• Should we keep reading classic literature that is offensive? 
• Should there be a distinction between ‘high’ and ‘low’ literature?
• Are romcoms and erotica series like Fifty Shades of Grey empowering for women?
• Is reading actually more beneficial than watching TV or playing video games?
• Is there any benefit or relevance to teaching high school students Shakespeare?
• Should video games be considered a high form of entertainment?
• Are biographical movies of deceased musicians and artists ethical?
• Is modern music really worse than older music?
• Should paparazzi be banned and unable to sell their photos?

Topics in arts and culture are always fun to debate and discuss because you have the opportunity to talk about your favorite pieces of media!

2. Economics

Economics is a hotly debated topic. There is no shortage of compelling, engaging arguments involving economics. 

Here are some good persuasive speech ideas on the topic of economics: 

• Is capitalism a functional, ethical economic system? 
• Should everyone, despite their income, be taxed at the same rate?
• Can we introduce another economic system to our society? 
• Should each state, the federal government, or individual companies be responsible for setting a living wage?
• Should minimum wage be doubled?
• Should everyone adapt to the four-day work week?
• Should people who make under a certain amount per year not be taxed at all?
• Should governments encourage and reward people for shopping locally? 
• Should advertisements be banned during TV and media programming aimed at kids?
• Has modern consumerism gone too far?

Economics is a great topic for a persuasive speech because it affects our everyday lives in so many ways. There are tons of research and perspectives to help support your argument. 

3. Education

Many people feel strongly about education and there are many sides and perspectives that come into play: teachers, parents, students, student athletes, and more. 

Here is a list of some engaging topics to write a persuasive speech on:

• Should post-secondary education be free?
• Should taking a year off between high school and college be mandatory?
• Is it fair to take cell phones away from kids in middle/high school while they are in class?
• Should school uniforms be mandatory in all high schools?
• Should cursive writing still be taught in schools?
• Do frats and sororities actually serve their purpose? 
• Should programming and coding be introduced to young students?
• Should school lunches be free?
• Is college/university necessary anymore?
• Does the education system prepare students for adult life?
• Should gyms be mandatory for all students?
• Do schools need to do a better job at teaching students a second language?
• Should schools teach sign language?
• What age should students be taught sex ed?
• Should distant learning be encouraged, or avoided at all costs?

Education is another great topic to write a speech about because it intersects with economics, culture , and politics . These topics will guarantee an engaged audience. This is a popular topic for high school students who are learning about tuition and scholarships at their top colleges! 

4. Environment

Since the release of Al Gore’s “An Inconvenient Truth” and Greta Thunberg’s unapologetic activism, climate change has been at the forefront of many political, economic, and cultural conversations. 

If environmental issues spark your interest, consider writing on one of the topics below:

• Can we ever live in a truly ‘green’ and environmentally friendly society?
• Should water bottles be banned?
• Are businesses responsible for implementing environmentally friendly production and products?
• Should there be a carbon tax?
• Should electric cars be mandatory in the near future?
• Should we switch over to entirely renewable energy?
• Do low-income families have the same duties to be eco-conscious as high-income families do? Should plastic bags and single use plastic be completely banned?
• Should car racing be banned?
• Should fast fashion be banned?

The environment and climate change are becoming, if not already, some of the most pressing issues of our day. 

Ethics may be one of the most difficult topics to write a persuasive speech about because the topics tend to cover sensitive subject matter. However, ethics are also some of the most compelling and complex topics to explore. 

Here are some potential topics for a persuasive speech about ethics:

• Is animal testing ethical?
• Is drinking coffee unethical?
• Are animal shelters that allow euthanization ethical?
• Should more people try to adopt a vegetarian/vegan diet?
• Is the death penalty ethical? 
• Can racism ever truly be eliminated?
• Can the prison system genuinely contribute to the improvement and rehabilitation of individuals?
• Should justice systems and incarceration facilities focus on rehabilitation over punishment? 
• Should cosmetic plastic surgery be covered by insurance?
• Are morals objective or subjective?
• Should zoos and circuses be banned?
• Should fur coats be illegal?
• Are censorship laws ethical?
• Is it ethical to genetically modify an embryo? 
• How should we, and who is responsible, for addressing the homelessness crisis? 
• Should minors who commit violent crimes be charged and tried as adults?

Tackling a persuasive speech on ethics is a challenge, as many of these topics are complex and sensitive. It can also be difficult to wrap up a speech on such huge ethical debates. 

However, these topics also provide some of the most riveting and energizing debates - if you’re up to the challenge, you should definitely try to tackle one of these topics. 

From fitness to food prices to economic privilege, there are tons of debatable topics regarding health. Here are just some of the potential topics you can write a speech on:

• Are individuals solely responsible for their own health?
• Should prescription medications be free?
• Should sugary drinks like pop be taxed at higher rates?
• Should Starbucks be allowed to advertise their high-calories and high sugar drinks?
• Should the government regulate the prices of fruits and vegetables?
• Should fast food restaurants regulate and reduce their portions?
• Should gym memberships be free?
• Should the government change and restructure the work week to reduce stress?
• Should nurses be paid more?
• Should smoking be banned?
• Should insurance companies fully cover rehabilitation stays for health issues like eating disorders?

People have varying opinions and understanding of health, which makes these topics very engaging and interesting to write about.

7. Politics

It goes without saying that almost every political issue is debatable. 

• Do we actually live in a truly democratic society?
• Should there be a minimum wage or a living wage?
• Should the legal voting age be decreased?
• Does the pay gap exist?
• Are younger politicians more effective?
• Should there be stricter gun laws?
• Should Presidents be able to serve more than two terms?
• Should everyone get the day off work to go vote?
• Should political party funding be regulated?
• Should political smear campaigns be banned?
• Is there a political bias in mainstream media?
• Should you date someone with opposing political views? 
• Is the government spending too much on the military sector?

Politics are all about persuading people to take a side, which makes it a strategic topic for delivering a moving persuasive speech. 

Sports is another big topic that people care a lot about. There are sports related matters that are questioned everywhere: sports on TV, the Olympics, college sports and athletics, and athletic sponsorships . 

Below is a list of captivating sports topics for a persuasive speech: 

• Should the pay for professional teams be based on audience viewership? 
• Are professional sports getting too violent? 
• Are athletes overpaid?
• Is cheerleading empowering or exploitative? 
• Should children be allowed to compete in competitive sports?
• Should we continue spending millions of dollars on the Olympic Games?
• Do people put too much importance on high school and college football?
• Should alcohol and tobacco ads be banned during sports?
• Is betting on sports teams ethical?
• Should high school and college athletes be paid?

Sports is a topic that people don’t often think of as controversial. However, your audience is bound to be engaged and contemplating your argument as you present your speech. 

9. Technology

As the world increasingly moves to online spaces, and technology advances faster than ever before, technology is another hot topic that people have a lot of thoughts and opinions on. 

• Should all workplaces offer hybrid/remote work?
• Should we pursue Artificial Intelligence?
• Do we need to put resources into travelling to space?
• Should parents monitor their children’s online activity?
• Is it okay for phones to use facial recognition and fingerprint technology?
• Is technology actually addicting?
• Can we blame technology for increased stress and anxiety?
• Are security cameras and body cameras an invasion of privacy? 
• Should the internet be surveilled or managed?
• Should video game chats be surveilled or even banned?
• Are machines replacing human labor? 
• Should cloning be outlawed/banned?

As technology continues to advance and expand into our personal lives, it is a great topic to write a unique persuasive speech on. 

Having a unique and creative speech topic discussing one of your interests can make it stand out more! Think about extracurriculars you participate in, podcasts you enjoy, or fascinating facts you’ve learned. Don’t be afraid to think outside of the box. 

• What makes a hero?
• Are we headed towards World War 3?
• Did humans really land on the moon?
• Are serial killers born or made?
• Can good and evil be separated neatly?
• Is cancel culture a positive or negative thing?
• Can money buy happiness?
• How to become a millionaire
• How to become more confident
• How to live to be 100
• How to survive an apocalypse
• Do extraterrestrial beings exist?
• Why students should start investing at 16
• The true history of… (event of your choice, such as the Chernobyl disaster, the Black Plague, Salem Witch Trials, etc.)

Exploring these kinds of diverse and intriguing topics will not only capture your audience's attention but will also allow you to share your passions with your peers! 

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

The best persuasive speech topics are topics that are not overdone, and topics that the speaker is genuinely passionate and knowledgeable about. 

Persuasive speech topics should also be a bit controversial (this does not mean offensive) because the topic and speech itself should be thought-provoking. The more people are emotionally invested in the topic, the better. 

For example, while you can try to persuade your audience that strawberry ice cream is better than chocolate ice cream, it’s unlikely that many people have a strong emotional investment in that topic. Without an emotional investment, audiences will be sitting listening to your speech thinking: “so what?” 

On the other hand, a topic like “Should government’s set limits on how many children a family can have in overpopulated countries?” is emotionally charged and truly matters to people. 

FAQs: Persuasive Speech Topics

After reading through all the possible topics you can write a persuasive speech on, you may still have some questions before you get going. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about persuasive speech topics. 

1. What Are Some Easy Persuasive Topics?

Any persuasive topic can be easy to write about if you are passionate about your stance. The more passionate and knowledgeable you are about your topic, the easier it will be to research and write. 

There are also easy persuasive topics that are more lighthearted than controversial, which some people may find easier to debate and write about. Some easy persuasive topics include: 

• Should everyone have a three-day weekend?
• Should every public place have free Wi-Fi?
• Does social media do more harm than good?
• Should kids get paid for getting high grades?
• Do we need more holidays?

These topics are all fun to debate, which makes it easy to write a persuasive speech or essay. Whereas some persuasive topics can be complex and sensitive, the topics listed above are pretty straightforward, which makes them easier to discuss than more complex topics. 

2. What Is a Good Persuasive Speech Topic For School?

A good start to finding a good speech topic for school is looking for a topic that involves something related to school. For example, you can look into talking about school uniforms, class sizes, tuition and scholarships, and school sports, just to name a few. 

Having a speech topic related to school is a good idea for school because your audience (teachers and peers) are directly in that environment as well. This means they will likely be more engaged as the topic, whether they agree or disagree, is relevant to their everyday lives. 

3. What are Three Examples of a Persuasive Speech Topic?

Any of the above topics listed in this article are examples of persuasive speech topics. Three specific examples that have not been listed are:

• Is social media to blame for the rates of depression and anxiety amongst youth?
• Do young adult romance novels encourage harmful and toxic relationships to their target audience?
• Should children under 18 have total control over medical decisions made about their bodies?

These topics are examples of persuasive speech topics because you need to take a clear stance in order to answer the question. The point of a persuasive speech is to convince or persuade the audience that your side of the argument is valid and should be considered, so the topic needs the individual to take a specific stance. 

As briefly touched upon before, your topic needs to interest your audience for a successful persuasive speech. While you should make sure your topic isn’t overdone, you don’t want to go with something too ‘safe’ as that will most likely bore your audience. 

Final Thoughts

Coming up with a topic for a persuasive speech may be the most difficult part of the writing process. 

Read over our list of topics and pick out a few topics that genuinely interest you. From there, do some preliminary research on each topic and see which one has the strongest evidence to support your argument. Then, you’ll be good to start writing your persuasive speech that will amaze your audience!

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Hey! I'm working on a speech for my English class and we need to persuade the audience on an issue. Any ideas on what topics for speeches to persuade would be interesting and engaging for a high school audience? I'd love to hear your suggestions!

Hello! It's always exciting to work on a persuasive speech that will engage a high school audience. Here are a few topics you could consider for your speech:

1. Mental Health in Schools — Advocate for the importance of mental health support and resources for students, discussing how it can benefit both academic performance and overall well-being.

2. Effects of Social Media — Argue for or against the positives and negatives of social media usage among teens, touching on issues like cyberbullying, addiction, and impacts on self-esteem.

3. Climate Change — Discuss the significance of climate change and the role students can play in reducing their carbon footprint or advocating for sustainable policies.

4. Teen Employment — Debate the benefits and drawbacks of teens working part-time jobs, including the impact on prioritizing education, time management, and gaining valuable experience.

5. Standardized Testing — Argue for or against the importance of standardized testing in high schools, addressing its role in measuring student success and college admissions.

6. Community Service Requirements — Persuade your audience on the value of mandatory community service hours for high school graduation, focusing on benefits like personal growth, civic responsibility, and fostering empathy.

7. School Dress Codes — Delve into the controversial topic of dress codes and discuss whether they are necessary for promoting a positive learning environment or if they contribute to body shaming and gender bias.

8. Extracurricular Activities — Persuade your audience on the importance of participating in extracurricular activities and how they can impact a student's personal development, time management skills, and future opportunities.

9. Sleep and School Start Times — Advocate for later school start times to accommodate teen sleep patterns and discuss the potential impact on academic performance and mental health.

10. Freedom of Speech in Schools — Argue for or against the extent to which students should have the right to express their opinions and beliefs in an educational setting, taking into account potential limitations for maintaining a safe and respectful environment.

Remember to pick a topic that you're passionate about, as your enthusiasm will help make your persuasive speech more engaging and compelling. Good luck!

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

Challenges of Ethically Regulating Free Speech on College Campuses

By shoellis

By: Olivia Welsh, Ethics and Policy Intern

Each day, headlines highlight the ongoing questions we have about the role of universities in public discourse. These conversations center on questions surrounding political neutrality, what is considered “appropriate” speech from students and faculty, and how to protect university community members from harm. These are not new questions, but the escalation of the Israel-Palestine conflict, from everyday campus protests to Ivy League president resignations, has brought the issue of free speech on college campuses to a boiling point.

A university or higher-education institution is inherently a setting where intellectual and ideological disagreement will occur – and should even be encouraged. The challenge is where and how do we draw the line. What type of speech is so harmful to members of the community that it must be restricted? Who gets to decide the line between right and wrong? What is a university’s responsibility to speak out about the social and political issues of the day?

Being uncomfortable is a necessary part of growth. Being unsafe is not. This is the balance that colleges and universities are trying to strike every day. Can there ever be an institution that gets it exactly right in the eyes of all?

The background of college campus free speech

In the 1960s, free speech on college campuses was at the forefront of higher education discussions. The University of Chicago made its first attempt at taking an official stance by publishing the Kalven Report. This 1967 statement, still in use today, argues that institutions should remain socially and politically neutral while fostering lively debate among their members. The authors of the Kalven Report believed that a university should not suppress any viewpoints or change its corporate activities to foster social or political values.

“The university is the home and sponsor of critics; it is not itself the critic. […] To perform its mission in society, a university must sustain an extraordinary environment of freedom of inquiry and maintain an independence from political fashions, passions, and pressures” [5].

In short, the report states that a university should be a place to discuss all possible perspectives without censorship. The members of a university community can come to their own conclusions and act independently of the institution itself. The Kalven Report pushes back at anyone who might consider such a choice to not weigh in on the topics of the day as cowardly or uncaring:

“The neutrality of the university as an institution arises then not from a lack of courage nor out of indifference and insensitivity. It arises out of respect for free inquiry and the obligation to cherish a diversity of viewpoints. And this neutrality as an institution has its complement in the fullest freedom for its faculty and students as individuals to participate in political action and social protest.” [5]

In 2014, the University of Chicago decided to make another statement amidst an onslaught of various free speech lawsuits against universities nationwide. The resulting Chicago Principles delineate a clear and longstanding commitment to free speech and allow a wide diversity of ideas to be discussed in the University setting. The Chicago Principles reiterate the sentiment of the Kalven Report, calling debate and deliberation essential to higher education, even if the ideas discussed are viewed as “offensive, unwise, immoral, or wrong-headed” [8]. It guarantees “the broadest possible latitude to speak, write, listen, challenge, and learn,” provided that such behavior does not interfere with the core functioning of the university [8]. Furthermore, the Chicago Principles demand that all community members not obstruct or otherwise interfere with others’ freedom of speech. The Chicago Principles conclude by arguing that “without a vibrant commitment to free and open inquiry, a university ceases to be a university” [8].

These are the positions that the University of North Carolina System (“UNC System”) adopted in 2017, as endorsed by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s (“UNC-Chapel Hill”) Faculty Council and Board of Trustees [10] [3]. The UNC System schools are among over 100 other colleges and universities nationwide that have adopted the Chicago Principles, including several of our peer institutions [4]. In 2022, the UNC-Chapel Hill Board of Trustees took a further step in protecting free speech by adopting the Kalven Report [2].

“The mission of The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is advanced by our commitment to the aspirational principles that guide our public conversation no matter how unsettling […] At Carolina, we have long known that light and liberty are the essential tools that allow problems to be seen, ideas to be tested, and solutions to be found,” the Faculty Council states [10].

Of course, both the UNC System and UNC-Chapel Hill have policies regulating free speech, which forbid defamation, unlawful harassment, true threats, unjust invasions of privacy, and more (see the UNC System Policy and the UNC-Chapel Hill Policy ). However, these policies leave several unanswered questions. For example, it is not always clear what speech falls under the category of a “true threat,” especially because that might mean different things to different people.

When does protecting free speech interfere with a university’s teaching mission and functioning? Do institutions have a different obligation to protect historically marginalized groups compared to historically well-represented groups? What is a university’s responsibility in addressing social and political issues? There are no “right” answers, but some views on these questions are explored below.

When does protecting free speech inhibit a university’s functioning?

The Kalven Report, the Chicago Principles, and the UNC policies all indicate that it is appropriate to restrict free speech when it interferes with the necessary functioning of the university, with safety concerns being of utmost importance. Beyond cases like riots that would physically disallow classes from taking place and endanger members of the university, disruptions like exclusionary speech could also be viewed as interfering with a university’s core functioning by hindering equal access to education. If it is a university’s mission to educate all its students, but a particular group feels unreasonably ostracized due to the free speech of others and feels unable to attend or participate in class, then one could argue that speech is interfering with the necessary functioning of the university.

Say that, while not violating any laws, an anti-Black Lives Matter (“BLM”) speaker comes to campus and delivers a scathing condemnation of the BLM movement. However, the speaker’s remarks and student participation in the event make Black students feel unwelcome on campus, and therefore, these students find it harder to benefit from their education. Does this qualify as speech that interferes with the university’s functioning? And if so, should it not be welcomed on campus?

On the flip side, does inhibiting a challenging viewpoint negatively impact the educational environment? Students should have the opportunity to grapple with difficult ideas and the controversies of the day – that is part of what is so valuable about a liberal arts education. Colleges are not full of fragile students who cannot stand to hear free speech, and they should not be portrayed as such. The key is creating an environment where the needs of all students remain supported even during protests, controversial speakers, and difficult discussions. However, it is not easy to prescribe a single policy for handling free speech since circumstances vary dramatically from institution to institution [1].

Is there a different obligation to protect historically marginalized groups at a university?

Continuing with this hypothetical of an anti-BLM speaker on campus, how might appropriate free-speech regulation differ based on context? According to UNC System data, just over 8% of UNC-Chapel Hill’s undergraduate student body identifies as Black/African American [11]. In the context of having such a significant minority, is it justified to more strictly regulate free speech that makes Black students feel unwelcome and further marginalized at the university?

One might think that free speech should be fully protected regardless because any university member in opposition has an equal right to free speech in response. However, just because someone has the right to free speech does not mean they feel reasonably empowered to use it. This highlights the important distinction between equality, which treats everyone the same, and equity, which recognizes that creating a level playing field often means allocating more or less resources to particular individuals or groups based on their specific circumstances. Giving all campus community members the same right to free speech is equal, but equitable free speech would amplify and protect minority groups.

The teaching mission of a university relies on an inclusive climate. Institutional attention is necessary to ensure that all students in diverse classrooms are comfortable being involved in the learning experience. Because it is important to include ALL students in an environment of free inquiry, there is an argument that free speech that specifically marginalizes an already minority group must be more strictly regulated than controversial speech that makes a majority group uncomfortable [1].

This is where context is important because, unlike UNC-Chapel Hill, Howard University (“Howard”) has a very strong majority of Black students. At Howard, Black students would likely not feel as threatened by an anti-BLM speaker; therefore, students could more comfortably engage in rigorous debate and grapple with differing viewpoints, which is essential in higher education.

What is a university’s responsibility to govern speech on campus about social and political issues?

This past November, a speaker unaffiliated with UNC-Chapel Hill made remarks on campus that sympathized with the violence perpetrated by Hamas against Israeli citizens on October 7th, 2023 [7]. Such tolerance for violence (which killed over a thousand Israeli citizens) is clearly alarming and certainly falls under the category of speech seen as “offensive, unwise, immoral, or wrong-headed.” But remember that, in the spirit of free inquiry and true academia, the Chicago Principles protect such speech. The remarks did not include a threat or any other banned speech.

Then-Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz strongly condemned the remarks, as did the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and many others at UNC-Chapel Hill. Months later, the Faculty Council, the same one that originally endorsed the Chicago Principles, considered a resolution to “strongly condemn the antisemitic statements at the event.” The group decided to indefinitely postpone the resolution, avoiding taking a side on its merits. While some did feel strongly that the remarks were antisemitic, others viewed this as a mislabeling since the comments contained no mention of the Jewish religion or people and only directly criticized the actions of the Israeli state .

There is another tricky consideration – if the Faculty Council passes a resolution condemning antisemitism, must it follow this up with a condemnation of Islamophobia to ensure neutrality and inclusivity? Does this set a precedent by which the Faculty Council must condemn any speech it regards as harmful, even if the speech does not violate the UNC System or UNC-Chapel Hill free speech policies? Who decides what should and should not be condemned, and where is the line drawn regarding what warrants a comment?

Certainly, this is not to say that members of an institution cannot or should not speak up against violence or perceived hate. Still, at the institutional level, there are significant policy ramifications to consider in protecting free speech and thorough education [7]. Starting to weigh in on social and political issues is a slippery slope for universities because it creates an expectation of doing so for all issues. The authors of the Kalven Report anticipated this and promoted institutional neutrality, trying to make a university a simple facility where lively debates on the day’s topics can occur.

This is a perfectly reasonable argument, but there is another drastically different viewpoint. Is institutional neutrality just a convenient excuse for universities to stay silent and take the “easy way out?” [12]. At Indiana University (“IU”), administrators recently caused an uproar when they canceled a scheduled art exhibition by a Palestinian-American artist. IU administration cited security concerns as the reason for the cancellation. However, the artist, members of the IU community, and outside organizations speculate that the real reason is a reaction to comments by an Indiana congressman who threatened to withhold federal funding from IU if it failed to address perceived antisemitism concerns adequately [6].

Walking a political tightrope does not seem to be a legitimate reason for censorship at a public university. Institutional neutrality that allows for all viewpoints to be expressed is very different than a restrictive “institutional neutrality” that prohibits any viewpoints from being expressed. Universities risk establishing an orthodox view on campus by making statements or taking actions regulating free speech, thereby ostracizing alternative thinkers [9]. While a university might not be responsible for acting on social and political issues (the substance for a whole different debate), it does have a responsibility to facilitate an environment that considers social and political issues and equips its students to handle these difficult or delicate issues once they graduate.

Between a rock and a hard place

There are still so many unanswered questions regarding free speech on campus, and it is doubtful that a satisfactory solution will ever be reached. Any policy on free speech must consider legal constraints, institutional missions, and the feelings of students, faculty, and staff. With so many stakeholders to satisfy, it makes sense that the issue of free speech on campus keeps coming up.

During controversial times, it is helpful to remember that heated moments subside, and history reflects that. “Right answers” are hard to come by, but at the end of the day, a university that can keep its campus community safe and facilitate productive conversations is doing its job pretty well.