150 Examples of Argumentative Essay Topics

These examples of argumentative essay topics can help you choose a compelling and contentious subject that allows you to express opinions, defend viewpoints, and engage in critical discourse.

In this comprehensive guide, we present a curated list of 150 examples of argumentative essay topics that span various domains of life and touch upon the most pressing social, political, and ethical issues of our time. Whether you’re a student seeking inspiration for your next assignment or a seasoned writer looking for fresh perspectives, our compilation will serve as a valuable resource to ignite your intellectual curiosity and inspire compelling arguments.

We’ve carefully organized these topics to cover a wide spectrum of issues, ensuring that you’ll find a subject that resonates with your interests and provides ample material for constructing compelling arguments.

So, whether you’re passionate about environmental sustainability, intrigued by societal challenges, or keen to debate technological advancements, you’ll find something here that perfectly sets the stage for impactful persuasive writing.

If you’ve already chosen a topic and would like some help writing your paper, take a look at our Argumentative Essay Template.

You may also find our free essay outline generator really useful when the time comes to start planning your essay.

Here are 150 examples of argumentative essay topics to elevate your argumentative essay writing to new heights.

150 Examples of Argumentative Essay Topics for 2024

10 Sample Argumentative Essay Topics on Social Issues

Topic	Prompt
The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health	Does excessive use of social media contribute to mental health issues, and what can be done to mitigate the negative effects?
Educational Inequality	How can disparities in educational opportunities be reduced, and what role does socioeconomic status play in student success?
Police Use of Force	Is there a need for stricter regulations on police use of force, and how can excessive force incidents be reduced?
Climate Change and Environmental Responsibility	How can individuals and businesses be encouraged to take more significant steps in addressing climate change?
Online Privacy vs. National Security	Is the balance between online privacy and national security properly maintained, or should individuals have more control over their personal data?
Gender Pay Gap	Is the gender pay gap primarily due to discrimination, or are there other factors at play, and how can it be addressed?
Homelessness	What strategies can be employed to combat homelessness, and is it a societal or governmental responsibility?
Gun Control Legislation	Should stricter gun control laws be implemented to reduce gun violence and mass shootings?
Mental Health Stigma	How can society reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, and how can access to mental healthcare be improved?
Immigration and Refugee Policies	What should be the approach to immigration and refugees to balance security concerns with humanitarian values?

These topics cover a range of social issues and provide ample material for argumentative essays and debates. Depending on your stance and the depth of your research, you can make compelling arguments on any of these subjects.

10 Sample Argumentative Essay Topics on Education and Schooling

Argumentative Essay Topic	Sample Argumentative Essay Prompt
Standardized Testing:	Should standardized tests be the primary measure of a student’s academic ability, or are there more effective alternatives?
Online Learning vs. Traditional Classroom Education:	Is online learning as effective as traditional classroom education, and how should it be integrated into the educational system?
School Uniforms:	Do school uniforms help improve discipline and academic performance, or do they infringe on students’ individuality and self-expression?
Inclusive Education:	Should students with disabilities be educated in mainstream classrooms, or is there a better approach to inclusive education?
The Role of Homework:	Is homework an essential part of the learning process, or does it place an unnecessary burden on students?
Charter Schools vs. Public Schools:	What are the advantages and disadvantages of charter schools compared to traditional public schools?
Early Childhood Education:	How crucial is early childhood education in preparing children for future academic success, and should it be more widely accessible?
Sex Education in Schools:	Should comprehensive sex education be a mandatory part of the curriculum in all schools, or should it be left to parents to address?
Bilingual Education:	Is bilingual education beneficial for students in improving their language skills and cultural awareness, or does it hinder their progress?
Education Funding:	Is the current system of funding public schools fair, and how can disparities in educational resources be addressed?

These topics offer a range of perspectives on education and schooling, making them suitable for argumentative essays that can explore various aspects of the educational system and its challenges.

10 Sample Persuasive Essay Topics on Technology and The Internet

Argumentative Essay Topic	Sample Argumentative Essay Prompt
Internet Censorship:	Should governments have the authority to censor content on the internet to protect national security, or does this infringe on freedom of speech?
Online Privacy vs. National Security:	Is the balance between online privacy and national security properly maintained, or should individuals have more control over their personal data?
Social Media Addiction:	Are social media platforms designed to be addictive, and what responsibility do tech companies have in addressing this issue?
AI and Job Displacement:	With the rise of artificial intelligence, what policies should be in place to protect workers from job displacement and ensure a just transition?
Net Neutrality:	Is net neutrality essential to maintain a level playing field on the internet, or should internet service providers have more control over data traffic?
Online Learning and Traditional Education:	How does online learning compare to traditional classroom education, and should it become a permanent part of the educational system?
Cybersecurity and Personal Responsibility:	To what extent are individuals responsible for their own cybersecurity, and should they bear the consequences of not taking precautions?
The Impact of Social Media on Democracy:	How does social media influence political opinions and elections, and what can be done to ensure a fair democratic process online?
Big Tech Monopolies:	Are large tech companies like Facebook, Google, and Amazon monopolies that need to be regulated to promote fair competition?
Digital Divide:	How can society bridge the digital divide, ensuring that all individuals have equal access to the benefits of technology and the internet?

These argumentative essay topics cover various aspects of technology and the internet, allowing you to explore the ethical, social, and political implications of our increasingly digital world.

10 Example Argumentative Essay Ideas for Health and Wellness

Argumentative Essay Topic	Sample Argumentative Essay Prompt
Vaccination Mandates:	Should vaccinations be mandatory for all eligible individuals to achieve herd immunity, or should vaccination remain a personal choice?
Universal Healthcare:	Is a universal healthcare system the best way to ensure equitable access to medical services, or does it come with significant drawbacks?
Obesity Epidemic:	How can society address the growing obesity epidemic, and should there be stricter regulations on unhealthy food marketing?
Mental Health Stigma:	What steps should be taken to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, and how can access to mental healthcare be improved?
Alternative Medicine:	Should alternative medicine practices like acupuncture and herbal remedies be integrated into mainstream healthcare, or should they be subject to more rigorous regulation?
Healthcare and Technology:	How has technology impacted healthcare delivery, and what are the ethical implications of using technology in medicine?
Legalization of Recreational Drugs:	Should recreational drugs like marijuana be legalized and regulated to reduce harm and generate revenue, or should they remain illegal?
The Role of Sugar in Diet:	How does excessive sugar consumption contribute to health problems, and should there be government intervention to reduce sugar intake?
Health Education in Schools:	Is it essential to have comprehensive health education programs in schools to promote healthy lifestyles and disease prevention?
Organ Transplants and Ethics:	What ethical considerations surround organ transplantation, and how should organ allocation be determined to maximize fairness and save lives?

These topics provide a range of perspectives on health and wellness, allowing for in-depth exploration of critical issues related to physical and mental health, healthcare systems, and lifestyle choices.

10 Examples of Politics and Government Argumentative Essay Topics

Argumentative Essay Topic	Sample Argumentative Essay Prompt
Electoral College Reform:	Should the United States abolish the Electoral College in favor of a direct popular vote for presidential elections?
Campaign Finance Reform:	How can campaign finance laws be reformed to reduce the influence of money in politics and ensure fair elections?
Voting Rights:	What measures should be taken to protect and expand voting rights, and how can gerrymandering be addressed?
Immigration Policy and Border Security:	What should be the approach to immigration and border security, balancing national security with humanitarian concerns?
Universal Basic Income (UBI):	Is a universal basic income a feasible solution to address income inequality and provide economic security?
Foreign Policy and Military Intervention:	How should a nation’s foreign policy and military interventions be guided to promote global stability and protect national interests?
Government Surveillance:	What are the ethical and legal implications of government surveillance programs, and how can individual privacy be protected?
Healthcare Policy:	Should healthcare be considered a fundamental right, and what is the best approach to providing affordable healthcare for all citizens?
Environmental Policies:	What measures should governments take to combat climate change and promote environmental sustainability?
Political Polarization:	How can societies address political polarization and foster productive political discourse and compromise?

These topics cover a wide range of political and governmental issues, providing ample material for in-depth analysis and argumentation in your essays. Depending on your interests and research, you can take various positions on these subjects to make compelling arguments.

10 Example Argumentative Essay Topics for Business and Economics

Argumentative Essay Topic	Sample Argumentative Essay Prompt
Minimum Wage Increase:	Should the minimum wage be raised to provide a living wage for all workers, or would this lead to job loss and higher prices?
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR):	Is CSR a genuine commitment to ethical business practices, or is it primarily a marketing strategy for companies?
Income Inequality:	How does income inequality affect society, and what policies should be implemented to address this issue?
Globalization and its Consequences:	What are the pros and cons of globalization on businesses, workers, and the global economy?
Gig Economy and Workers’ Rights:	Are workers in the gig economy adequately protected, and should they have the same rights as traditional employees?
Antitrust Regulations:	Should governments enforce stricter antitrust regulations to prevent monopolies and promote fair competition?
Trade Tariffs and Protectionism:	Do trade tariffs and protectionist policies protect domestic industries, or do they harm consumers and international trade?
Cryptocurrency and Traditional Banking:	Should cryptocurrencies be embraced as a legitimate form of currency and investment, or should they be regulated more strictly?
Financial Literacy Education:	How can society improve financial literacy to empower individuals to make better financial decisions?
Economic Impact of Automation:	What measures should be taken to address the potential job displacement caused by automation and artificial intelligence?

These topics cover a wide range of business and economic issues, offering opportunities to explore the ethical, social, and economic aspects of various policies and practices. You can take different positions and provide evidence-based arguments in your essays.

10 Sample Topics for Argumentative Essays on Criminal Justice and Law

Argumentative Essay Topic	Sample Argumentative Essay Prompt
Police Use of Force:	Is there a need for stricter regulations on police use of force, and how can excessive force incidents be reduced?
Criminal Sentencing Disparities:	What factors contribute to disparities in criminal sentencing, and how can the justice system be made more equitable?
Legalization of Marijuana:	Should marijuana be legalized for recreational use, and what are the potential societal and economic impacts?
Capital Punishment:	Is the death penalty a just punishment, or should it be abolished due to concerns about wrongful convictions and human rights?
Juvenile Justice Reform:	How can the juvenile justice system be reformed to focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment for young offenders?
Gun Control:	What measures should be taken to address gun violence, and how can Second Amendment rights be balanced with public safety?
Cybersecurity Laws:	How can laws and regulations better address cybercrimes and protect individuals and organizations from cyber threats?
Racial Profiling:	How can racial profiling by law enforcement be eliminated, and what are the consequences of such profiling?
Hate Crime Legislation:	Should hate crime laws be expanded to include a broader range of protected characteristics, and how can they be effectively enforced?
Bail Reform:	Should the bail system be reformed to reduce pretrial detention rates, and what alternatives should be implemented?

These topics encompass a wide range of issues within the realm of criminal justice and law, providing ample opportunities for in-depth analysis and debate on matters of fairness, ethics, and public policy.

Ten Example Persuasive Essay Topics on Media and Entertainment

Topic	Prompt
Media Bias	How does media bias impact public perception, and what measures can be taken to address it in journalism and reporting?
Freedom of Speech vs. Hate Speech	What are the limits of freedom of speech, and how can societies balance free expression with the prevention of hate speech?
Representation in Media	How can media better represent diverse voices and perspectives, and what are the implications of underrepresentation?
Censorship in Art and Media	Should governments have the authority to censor art and media, and what are the consequences of such censorship?
Celebrity Culture	What are the effects of celebrity culture on society, and does it promote unrealistic standards and values?
Copyright and Intellectual Property	How can copyright laws be reformed to adapt to the digital age, and what is the balance between protection and innovation?
Impact of Social Media	How has social media transformed communication and influenced public discourse, both positively and negatively?
Violence in Entertainment	Does exposure to violence in movies and video games contribute to real-world violence, and what should be done about it?
The Role of Media in Elections	How does media influence political elections, and what responsibilities do media outlets have in ensuring fair coverage?
Cultural Appropriation	What constitutes cultural appropriation in the realm of art and entertainment, and how can it be addressed while promoting cultural exchange?

These topics explore the complex relationship between media, entertainment, and society, offering opportunities to discuss issues related to freedom of expression, representation, and cultural influence.

Ten Sample Persuasive Essay Topics on Family and Relationships

Topic	Prompt
1. Parenting Styles	Examine different parenting styles and their impact on child development and behavior. Which parenting style do you believe is the most effective, and why?
2. Same-Sex Parenting	Discuss the evidence related to same-sex couples as parents and challenge any societal biases. Do you believe same-sex couples are equally suitable as parents?
3. Divorce and Child Custody	Explore how child custody decisions should be made in divorce cases. What factors should be considered, and how can fairness be ensured?
4. Arranged Marriages vs. Love Marriages	Compare the pros and cons of arranged marriages and marriages based on romantic love. Which approach do you believe is more beneficial?
5. Sibling Rivalry	Discuss the management of sibling rivalry and its long-term effects on sibling relationships. What strategies can parents use to address this issue?
6. Single Parenthood	Examine the challenges faced by single parents and propose ways society can better support them in their parenting roles.
7. Impact of Technology on Family Life	Analyze how technology has affected family dynamics and discuss strategies for maintaining healthy relationships in the digital age.
8. Marriage Age	Debate whether there should be a minimum legal age for marriage. How does early marriage affect individuals and society?
9. Balancing Work and Family	Explore how individuals can balance their career aspirations with family responsibilities. What policies can support work-life balance?
10. Foster Care and Adoption	Discuss how the foster care and adoption systems can be improved to provide stable and loving homes for children in need.

These topics delve into the complexities of family dynamics and relationships, addressing issues that are relevant to individuals and society as a whole. They invite discussions about parenting, marriage, and societal support systems.

Ten Examples of Argumentative Essay Prompts for Essays on Income Inequality and Wealth Redistribution

Argumentative Essay Topic	Sample Argumentative Essay Prompt
Progressive Taxation:	Should governments implement more progressive taxation to reduce income inequality?
Wealth Tax:	Is a wealth tax an effective way to address income inequality, and what are the potential drawbacks?
Minimum Wage Increase:	Should the minimum wage be raised to provide a living wage for all workers, or would this lead to job loss and higher prices?
Universal Basic Income (UBI):	Is UBI a viable solution to alleviate poverty and address job displacement due to automation?
CEO Compensation:	Should there be limits on CEO compensation to narrow the income gap, or is it a matter of private sector decision-making?
Inheritance Tax:	Should there be higher taxes on large inheritances to reduce wealth accumulation among the wealthy?
Economic Incentives:	Do economic incentives for businesses and individuals help or hinder efforts to reduce income inequality?
Education Access:	How does access to quality education impact income inequality, and what policies can improve educational equity?
Government Welfare Programs:	Do government welfare programs effectively reduce income inequality, or do they create dependency?
Entrepreneurship and Innovation:	How can entrepreneurship and innovation contribute to reducing income inequality, and what support is needed?

These topics revolve around issues related to income inequality and wealth redistribution, addressing economic disparities and potential policy solutions. They provide a comprehensive view of economic justice and fairness.

Ten Argumentative Essay Topics on Social Issues

Argumentative Essay Topic	Sample Argumentative Essay Prompt
Affirmative Action Policies:	Do affirmative action policies help or hinder progress towards racial and gender equality?
Racial Discrimination:	Is systemic racial discrimination still prevalent, and what steps should be taken to address it?
LGBTQ+ Rights:	Should LGBTQ+ rights, including marriage equality, be protected by law, or should they be left to societal acceptance?
Women’s Reproductive Rights:	What are the ethical considerations surrounding women’s reproductive rights, and should there be legal restrictions?
Disability Rights:	How can society better accommodate individuals with disabilities, and what role should government play in this?
Police Reform:	Should police departments be reformed to address issues like racial bias and excessive use of force?
Homelessness:	What strategies can be employed to combat homelessness, and is it a societal or governmental responsibility?
Mental Health Awareness:	How can society reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, and what policies can improve access to mental healthcare?
Immigration and Refugee Policies:	What should be the approach to immigration and refugees to balance security concerns with humanitarian values?
Environmental Justice:	How do environmental issues disproportionately affect marginalized communities, and what should be done to address this?

These topics encompass a wide range of social issues, from civil rights and discrimination to healthcare access and immigration policies. They invite discussions about societal values, equity, and justice.

10 Samples of Argumentative Essay Prompts for Religion and Spirituality

Argumentative Essay Topic	Sample Argumentative Essay Prompt
Freedom of Religion:	Should freedom of religion include the right to practice beliefs that might be considered harmful or discriminatory?
Secularism vs. Religion:	Is secularism necessary to ensure a fair and equal society, or does it infringe upon religious freedom and expression?
Religious Education in Schools:	Should religious education be part of the school curriculum, or does it violate the separation of church and state?
Religious Symbols in Public Spaces:	Should religious symbols, like crosses or hijabs, be allowed in public spaces, or should there be restrictions to maintain neutrality?
Religious Tolerance:	How can society promote religious tolerance and coexistence, even in regions with a history of religious conflicts?
Atheism and Non-Belief:	Should atheism and non-belief be afforded the same legal protections as religious beliefs, or is this unnecessary?
Religious Conversions:	Are religious conversions ethical, or do they amount to manipulation and coercion?
Religious Tax Exemptions:	Should religious institutions be exempt from taxes, or should they contribute to the financial burdens of society?
Religious Influences on Politics:	To what extent should religious beliefs and values shape political decisions and policies in a secular society?
Religious Extremism:	How can society combat religious extremism while respecting individual freedoms and religious rights?

These topics delve into issues related to religious beliefs, freedom of religion, and secularism, exploring the boundaries between religious expression and societal norms.

10 Examples of Gender and Sexuality Argumentative Essay Topics

Argumentative Essay Topic	Sample Argumentative Essay Prompt
LGBTQ+ Rights:	Should LGBTQ+ rights, including marriage equality, be protected by law, or should they be left to societal acceptance?
Gender Pay Gap:	Is the gender pay gap a result of discrimination, and what policies should be implemented to address it?
Gender Stereotypes:	How do gender stereotypes affect individuals and society, and should there be efforts to challenge and eliminate them?
Transgender Rights:	Should transgender individuals have the right to self-identify their gender, and what legal protections should be in place?
Sexual Education in Schools:	Should comprehensive sexual education be a mandatory part of the curriculum in all schools, or should it be left to parents to address?
Same-Sex Adoption:	Should same-sex couples have the same adoption rights as opposite-sex couples, and what factors should be considered in adoption decisions?
Gender-Neutral Restrooms:	Should public facilities offer gender-neutral restrooms to accommodate gender diversity, and what are the concerns and benefits of such facilities?
LGBTQ+ Conversion Therapy:	Should LGBTQ+ conversion therapy be banned, and how can society protect vulnerable individuals from such practices?
Intersectionality:	How does intersectionality influence experiences of discrimination and privilege among individuals with multiple marginalized identities?
Transgender Athletes in Sports:	Should transgender athletes be allowed to compete according to their gender identity, and are there potential advantages or disadvantages to consider?

These topics cover a wide range of gender and sexuality-related issues, exploring equality, discrimination, and the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. They invite discussions about societal norms and inclusivity.

10 Example Argumentative Essay Topics for Race and Ethnicity

Argumentative Essay Topic	Sample Argumentative Essay Prompt
Racial Discrimination:	Is systemic racial discrimination still prevalent, and what steps should be taken to address it?
Affirmative Action Policies:	Do affirmative action policies help or hinder progress towards racial and gender equality?
Cultural Appropriation:	What constitutes cultural appropriation in the realm of art and entertainment, and how can it be addressed while promoting cultural exchange?
Indigenous Rights:	How can society better recognize and protect the rights and cultural heritage of indigenous communities?
Ethnic Representation in Media:	How can media better represent diverse ethnic groups, and what are the implications of underrepresentation?
Racial Profiling:	How can racial profiling by law enforcement be eliminated, and what are the consequences of such profiling?
Diversity in the Workplace:	How do diversity and inclusion initiatives in the workplace benefit companies and society, and what challenges need to be overcome?
Hate Crime Legislation:	Should hate crime laws be expanded to include a broader range of protected characteristics, and how can they be effectively enforced?
Race and Education:	How do racial disparities in education impact future opportunities and outcomes, and what policies can address these disparities?
Race and Health Disparities:	What factors contribute to health disparities among different racial and ethnic groups, and how can healthcare access be improved for all?

These topics focus on racial inequality, discrimination, cultural diversity, and inclusivity. They provide opportunities for discussions about social justice and racial equity.

10 Example Argumentative Essay Ideas for Technology and Privacy

Argumentative Essay Topic	Sample Argumentative Essay Prompt
Online Privacy and Data Protection:	How can individuals’ online privacy be better safeguarded, and should there be stricter regulations on data collection?
Internet Censorship:	Should governments have the authority to censor content on the internet to protect national security, or does this infringe on freedom of speech?
Surveillance Technology:	What are the ethical and legal implications of government surveillance programs, and how can individual privacy be protected?
Social Media Addiction:	Are social media platforms designed to be addictive, and what responsibility do tech companies have in addressing this issue?
AI and Job Displacement:	With the rise of artificial intelligence, what policies should be in place to protect workers from job displacement and ensure a just transition?
Net Neutrality:	Is net neutrality essential to maintain a level playing field on the internet, or should internet service providers have more control over data traffic?
Online Learning vs. Traditional Education:	How does online learning compare to traditional classroom education, and should it become a permanent part of the educational system?
Cybersecurity and Personal Responsibility:	To what extent are individuals responsible for their own cybersecurity, and should they bear the consequences of not taking precautions?
The Impact of Social Media on Democracy:	How does social media influence political opinions and elections, and what can be done to ensure a fair democratic process online?
Big Tech Monopolies:	Are large tech companies like Facebook, Google, and Amazon monopolies that need to be regulated to promote fair competition?

These topics delve into the intersection of technology and privacy, addressing concerns about data protection, online freedom, and the impact of technology on society.

Samples of Excellent Topics for Argumentative Essays