Persuasive Policy Speech Topics | Example & Outline
In a policy speech, the speaker sets out to persuade the audience on a particular issue. This could be something like convincing them to vote for a certain candidate or changing their opinion on current law. No matter what the topic is, the key to giving a successful policy speech is to be persuasive. In this article, we’ll give you some tips on how to choose persuasive policy speech topics that will help you get your message across loud and clear!
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List of Thirty Persuasive Policy Speech Topics
1. E-cigarettes should be banned in public places. 2. The drinking age should be lowered to 18. 3. Marijuana should be legalized nationwide. 4. School uniforms should be mandatory in all schools. 5. All students should be required to take a foreign language in high school. 6. The voting age should be lowered to 16. 7. The use of cell phones should be banned while driving. 8. The death penalty should be abolished. 9. Gun control laws should be stricter. 10. Animal testing should be banned. 11. Plastic bags should be banned from grocery stores. 12. The use of fossil fuels should be phased out. 13. Fracking should be banned. 14. GMOs should be labeled. 15. Factory farming should be banned. 16. Palm oil should be boycotted. 17. The use of single-use plastics should be reduced. 18. Recycling should be mandatory. 19. Public transportation should be free or heavily subsidized. 20. Car emissions standards should be stricter. 21. Nuclear power plants should be shut down. 22. Solar and wind energy should be incentivized and subsidized. 23.. Coal-fired power plants should be phased out.. 24.. Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) should be banned.. 25.. lead pipesShould be replaced in all homes and public buildings.. 26.. All schoolsShould have gardens and teach students about gardening and healthy eating.. 27.. ThereShould be a nationwide ban on the use of pesticides.. 28.. The militaryShould focus on renewable energy sources.. 29ThereShould be a tax on carbon emissions.. 30The governmentShould invest in clean energy research and development
List of Thirty Persuasive Policy Speech Ideas
If you’re looking for some good persuasive policy speech ideas, then you’ve come to the right place. Below is a list of thirty persuasive policy speech topics that you can use as inspiration for your next presentation.
1. The need for stricter gun control laws in the United States 2. The benefits of free trade agreements 3. The importance of investing in renewable energy 4. The dangers of climate change and what we can do to prevent it 5. The merits of universal healthcare 6. The negative effects of tax cuts for the wealthy 7. The positives of implementing a nationwide minimum wage 8. Why we need to invest more in infrastructure projects 9. How to reduce the number of people living in poverty 10. Why immigration reform is necessary 11. What can be done to reduce crime rates 12. How to improve educational outcomes in underperforming schools 13. The benefits of early childhood education 14. Why environmental protection is important 15. What can be done to combat homelessness 16. How to reduce the number of teen pregnancies 17. Why drug legalization is a good idea 18. How to decrease the number of traffic fatalities 19. What measures can be taken to improveroad safety 20. Why public transportation is important 21. How to reduce air pollution 22. What can be done to conserve water 23. Why recycling is important 24. How to reduce the amount of waste produced 25. Why energy efficiency is important 26. What can be done to combat climate change 27. How to preserve endangered species 28. The importance of environmental education 29. What can be done to reduce littering and improve waste management 30. Why it is important to protect our natural resources
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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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The Question of Policy Speech Topics From Fun to Serious Across Grades
Table of Contents for Question of Policy Speech Topics:
- High School and College Policy Speech Topics
- Middle School Policy Speech Topics
- Elementary School Policy Speech Topics
- Fun Policy Speech Topics for Students
- Humorous Policy Speech Topics
- Absurd and Comical Policy Speech Topics
For High School to College 20 Excellent Policy Speech Topics
Here's a list of twenty of the best policy speech topics that are relevant and thought-provoking for high school or college students. Each topic is framed as a question.
It's easy to frame these topics for debate by writing them as a resolution rather than a question of policy speech topics. For example, the first topic on climate change could be rewritten as
"The [nation or entity] should significantly improve it's response to climate change."
Or, speech writers may reframe the topic to engage with a specific policy response. For further example, rewrite the climate topic as
"The United States federal government should substantially increase its restrictions on greenhouse gas emissions to address climate change."
Question of Policy Speech Topics List for High School and College Students
- Climate Change Policies: How can we improve our response to climate change?
- Education Reform: What changes should be made to the current educational system?
- Internet Privacy: How should personal data be handled online?
- Gun Control Policies: What should be the extent of gun control?
- Health Care Policies: Should universal health care be implemented?
- Immigration Policies: How should immigration be managed?
- Drug Legalization: Should all drugs be legalized or only some?
- Cybersecurity: How can we better protect ourselves from cyber threats?
- Criminal Justice Reform: How should our criminal justice system be improved?
- LGBTQ+ Rights: What policies need to be implemented to ensure equal rights?
- Income Inequality: How should the wage gap be addressed?
- Student Loan Policies: Should student loan debt be canceled?
- Environmental Policies: How can we encourage sustainable practices?
- Animal Rights: Should more stringent animal welfare laws be implemented?
- Foreign Policy: How should the US interact with North Korea, Russia, or China?
- Renewable Energy Policies: How should we transition to renewable energy sources?
- Affirmative Action: Is it still necessary in today's society?
- Vaccination Policies: Should vaccinations be mandatory for everyone?
- Artificial Intelligence Regulation: How should AI and robotics be controlled?
- Housing Policies: How can we address the homelessness crisis?
Remember, good policy speeches present a clear position, consider counterarguments, and provide evidence to support the stance. Always consider your audience's needs, interests, and backgrounds when choosing and preparing your topic.
Middle School and Developing Debaters 20 Question of Policy Speech Topics for Youth
Each of the following is a question of policy speech topics suitable for middle school age students. Teachers may leave the chosen topic as a question or rewrite the topic as a statement for debate. For example, the first topic could be rewritten as
"School cafeterias should provide healthier meal options to promote better nutrition among students."
Question of Policy Speech Topics List for Middle School Students
- School Lunch Policies: Should we have healthier options in school cafeterias?
- Bullying Policies: How can schools better address and prevent bullying?
- Homework Policies: Is there too much homework in schools?
- Dress Code Policies: Are school uniforms necessary?
- Digital Device Policies: What should the rules for cell phone usage in schools be?
- Recycling Policies: How can schools encourage better recycling and waste management?
- Physical Education Policies: How important is physical education in schools?
- Library Policies: Should schools invest more in libraries and reading materials?
- Field Trip Policies: Should schools organize more educational field trips?
- Extra-curricular Activity Policies: Should participation in extra-curricular activities be mandatory?
- School Start-Time Policies: Should school start later in the day?
- Test Policies: Are standardized tests the best measure a student's abilities?
- Classroom Pet Policies: Should classrooms be allowed to have pets?
- School Safety Policies: How can we ensure safety in schools?
- Vacation Policies: Is the current school calendar and vacation schedule optimal?
- Privacy Policies: What privacy rights should students have at school?
- Art and Music Education Policies: How much should schools invest in art and music education?
- Classroom Size Policies: How does class size impact learning?
- Nut Allergy Policies: How should schools handle food allergies?
- School Transportation Policies: How can schools ensure safe and efficient transportation?
These topics encourage students to think critically about the world around them. Even though middle school students must be older to vote or directly influence policy. Policy debate improves critical thinking skills and prepares young people for college.
Ko, Tomohiro M., and Briana Mezuk. “Debate participation and academic achievement among high school students in the Houston Independent School District: 2012 - 2015.” ERIC, 17 May 2021, https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1302954.pdf. Accessed 14 May 2023.
Elementary School and Kids 20 Youth Engaging Policy Speech Topics
The below list provides policy-based topics even more accessible to engage elementary school students. As with the above topics, each could be rewritten as a statement for debate. For example:
"Assigning homework over the weekend hinders students' ability to rest and engage in extracurricular activities and should be banned."
Question of Policy Speech Topics List for Elementary School Students
- Should Homework Be Given Over the Weekend?
- Are School Uniforms a Good Idea?
- Should Schools Have Longer Recess Times?
- Do Students Need More Art and Craft Classes?
- Should There Be More Field Trips in a Year?
- Should Schools Allow Pets for Show and Tell?
- Should We Have More Fun Fridays in Schools?
- Is It Better to Have Salad Bars in School Cafeterias?
- Should Students Help in School Clean-up?
- Should Every Student Get a Chance to Be Class Leader?
- Should Schools Start Later in the Morning?
- Do We Need More Sports Activities in School?
- Should There Be More Story Reading Sessions in Class?
- Should Students Help Plan School Events?
- Should We Have Theme Days at School?
- Are Birthday Celebrations in Class a Good Idea?
- Should Each Classroom Have a Mini Library?
- Should Schools Have More Play Equipment?
- Is It Better to Have More Group Projects in Class?
- Should Schools Plant More Trees?
These topics are more straightforward and directly related to the student's daily experiences. However, they can still help young students understand the concept of policy-making and decision-making in a simplified context.
Fun and Relatable Topics for Students 20 More Questions of Policy for Debate
Below are 20 fun and debatable policy speech topics directly relatable to students, which will strike a fun or more relatable chord. However, the policies involved require thought and should still engage students in critical thinking and discourse.
- Should schools replace physical education with a nap period?
- Should homework be replaced with video game assignments?
- Should all schools have a petting zoo on campus?
- Should students be allowed to vote for their teachers?
- Should everyone be required to wear superhero costumes to school once a week?
- Should students be allowed to grade their teachers?
- Should school hours be replaced with 'night school' for those who aren't morning people?
- Should students be allowed to bring their pets to school?
- Should we replace traditional classrooms with outdoor learning?
- Should students design their school uniforms?
- Should there be an official school song that everyone sings each morning?
- Should every student get a month of summer vacation when they want it?
- Should kids vote on what's for lunch in the cafeteria?
- Should there be a class where students watch cartoons?
- Should schools implement a 'no homework on weekends' policy?
- Should students have the option of taking 'life skills" classes, like how to become a YouTube star?
- Should students have the right to declare their desks an independent country?
- Should school buses be replaced with roller coasters?
- Should there be a policy that allows students to skip tests on their birthdays?
- Should every school have a mandatory 'funny hat' day?
These topics inspire creativity and humor in the students' speeches while challenging them to construct persuasive arguments.
Humorous and Somewhat Silly Questions of Policy Speech Topics that will get everyone laughing and thinking
Only some policy speech needs to strike a persuasive tone.
Below are bonus questions of policy speech topics that are fun and debatable to engage youth, teens, and adults.
Suppose you decide to use one of these topics for your policy speech. In that case, you will entertain your audience while still persuading them of the merits of your unusual position on the question.
- Should there be a maximum limit on the number of selfies, one can post in a day
- Should everyone be required to adopt a 'siesta' culture, like in Spain?
- Should pets be allowed in all public places?
- Should everyone be required to wear costumes on Halloween?
- Should there be a law to ban pineapple on pizza?
- Should people be able to marry their favorite fictional character?
- Should there be a 'national no social media day'?
- Should there be a law requiring people to use funny ringtones?
- Should the world switch to a four-day workweek?
- Should all fast food restaurants offer toy surprises for adults?
- Should every city have a mandatory 'comic con' event?
- Should every household be required to have a 'family game night' once a week?
- Should it be mandatory for everyone to learn a musical instrument?
- Should everyone be required to participate in a local sports league?
- Should all adults have a legally mandated bedtime?
- Should we replace cars with hoverboards or flying cars?
- Should every city have a 'zombie preparedness' plan?
- Should there be a law requiring everyone to have a hobby?
- Should there be a limit on the number of streaming services one can subscribe to?
- Should everyone be required to take a 'digital detox' once a year?
These topics are intended to be fun and engaging, stimulating creativity, humor, and critical thinking skills in youth, teens, and adults.
Start with a Laugh! Absurd Policy Questions
The following are more topics like the ones in the last twenty, but intended to be even more comical. Choose one of these topics if you prefer to perform and entertain more than persuade.
- Should everyone be required to adopt a unicorn as their national animal?
- Should we replace all cars with clown cars for a day every year?
- Should people be taxed based on how bad their jokes are?
- Should everyone be required to walk backward for an entire day each year?
- Should there be a national 'speak-like-a-pirate' day every month?
- Should everyone be required to replace their doorbell with a 'laugh track'?
- Should there be a law that everyone must wear mismatched socks on Mondays?
- Should every town be required to have a public pillow fight event annually?
- Should extraterrestrial beings be granted immediate citizenship upon landing on Earth?"
- Should every city replace all statues with inflatable bouncy castle versions?
- Should everyone be required to talk in rhymes one day per year?
- Should cities replace all street signs with riddles?
- Should there be a law to replace all pets' names with famous movie characters?
- Should there be a national 'silly walk' day in homage to Monty Python?
- Should everyone be required to wear superhero capes on Fridays?
These topics should inspire laughter and promote the skills needed for compelling debate and persuasion by getting students of public speaking on their feet, engaging with an audience, and thinking thematically.
In conclusion , the question of policy speech topics spans a wide range of interests, from serious and pressing societal issues to light-hearted and comical ones. These topics serve as a great tool to encourage critical thinking, enhance public speaking skills, and foster an understanding of civic issues among students of all ages.
Whether we're considering the pressing questions faced by high school and college students or the simpler and more directly relatable topics for younger students, or even the humorous and fun policies to get everyone laughing, the aim remains the same: to engage, educate, and inspire.
Remember, the best policy speech doesn't just present a clear position, but also accounts for counterarguments and is supported by persuasive evidence. So, when it comes to the question of policy speech topics, it's not just about what you say, but how you say it.
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Persuasive Policy Speech Topics | Example & Outline
In a policy speech, the speaker sets out to persuade the audience on a particular issue. This could be something like convincing them to vote for a certain candidate or changing their opinion on current law. No matter what the topic is, the key to giving a successful policy speech is to be persuasive. In this article, we’ll give you some tips on how to choose persuasive policy speech topics that will help you get your message across loud and clear!
Here's What You'll Learn
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List of Thirty Persuasive Policy Speech Topics
1. E-cigarettes should be banned in public places. 2. The drinking age should be lowered to 18. 3. Marijuana should be legalized nationwide. 4. School uniforms should be mandatory in all schools. 5. All students should be required to take a foreign language in high school. 6. The voting age should be lowered to 16. 7. The use of cell phones should be banned while driving. 8. The death penalty should be abolished. 9. Gun control laws should be stricter. 10. Animal testing should be banned. 11. Plastic bags should be banned from grocery stores. 12. The use of fossil fuels should be phased out. 13. Fracking should be banned. 14. GMOs should be labeled. 15. Factory farming should be banned. 16. Palm oil should be boycotted. 17. The use of single-use plastics should be reduced. 18. Recycling should be mandatory. 19. Public transportation should be free or heavily subsidized. 20. Car emissions standards should be stricter. 21. Nuclear power plants should be shut down. 22. Solar and wind energy should be incentivized and subsidized. 23.. Coal-fired power plants should be phased out.. 24.. Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) should be banned.. 25.. lead pipesShould be replaced in all homes and public buildings.. 26.. All schoolsShould have gardens and teach students about gardening and healthy eating.. 27.. ThereShould be a nationwide ban on the use of pesticides.. 28.. The militaryShould focus on renewable energy sources.. 29ThereShould be a tax on carbon emissions.. 30The governmentShould invest in clean energy research and development
List of Thirty Persuasive Policy Speech Ideas
If you’re looking for some good persuasive policy speech ideas, then you’ve come to the right place. Below is a list of thirty persuasive policy speech topics that you can use as inspiration for your next presentation.
1. The need for stricter gun control laws in the United States 2. The benefits of free trade agreements 3. The importance of investing in renewable energy 4. The dangers of climate change and what we can do to prevent it 5. The merits of universal healthcare 6. The negative effects of tax cuts for the wealthy 7. The positives of implementing a nationwide minimum wage 8. Why we need to invest more in infrastructure projects 9. How to reduce the number of people living in poverty 10. Why immigration reform is necessary 11. What can be done to reduce crime rates 12. How to improve educational outcomes in underperforming schools 13. The benefits of early childhood education 14. Why environmental protection is important 15. What can be done to combat homelessness 16. How to reduce the number of teen pregnancies 17. Why drug legalization is a good idea 18. How to decrease the number of traffic fatalities 19. What measures can be taken to improveroad safety 20. Why public transportation is important 21. How to reduce air pollution 22. What can be done to conserve water 23. Why recycling is important 24. How to reduce the amount of waste produced 25. Why energy efficiency is important 26. What can be done to combat climate change 27. How to preserve endangered species 28. The importance of environmental education 29. What can be done to reduce littering and improve waste management 30. Why it is important to protect our natural resources
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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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My Speech Class
Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics
434 Good Persuasive Speech Topics
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.
Are you struggling to find a good persuasive speech topic ? We know – it can be hard to think of an interesting topic!
We’ve done all the hard work and created a list of 400+ great persuasive speech ideas for college students, teachers, and anyone interested in public speaking. They’re organized into categories to make it easier for you to find one that that genuinely interests you.
In addition to our collection of speech topic ideas, we also have some tips on selecting a good topic, as well as researchihng, writing, and delivering your persuasive speech.
What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?
Crafting a persuasive speech or writing a persuasive essay begins with picking the right topic. What makes a good persuasive speech topic? What are the most important factors that make it or break it when it comes to a good persuasive speech topic?
You are much more likely to be successful with your speech when you choose a topic that interests you, rather than merely picking one from a list.
Talking about something you know or would like to know more about well makes it much easier and fun!
Can We Write Your Speech?
Get your audience blown away with help from a professional speechwriter. Free proofreading and copy-editing included.
Some speech topics have been done to death. They are tired and stale, and are not likely to excite you or your audience (think abortion, gun control, smoking, same-sex marriage). Find a topic that grabs you and your audience, something new and fresh, unique and original.
- Interesting
A good persuasive speech topic is one that you can use to grab the audience’s attention, inform and persuade, and provide a strong persuasive argument for adopting your point of view.
You want to pick a topic that your audience cares and what to hear about.
How To Select a Good Persuasive Topic
How to narrow down this list of ideas?
First, make a rough inventory:
- Which of the speech topics are you interested in?
- What amuses you, makes you move right the way, happy or sad?
- Which topics do you know something about?
- Which topics would you like to research?
Review your inventory list and narrow your choices by answering these questions:
- Do you know global, national, state, community, job or school-related problems and solutions, issues or controversies, related to the persuasive speech ideas?
- Are you excited about any historical or current events, places, processes, organizations or interesting people?
- Do you have certain concerns, opinions, or beliefs?
- Do you think something has to change in the human attitude or social values?
- Did you see or hear something in the news or read about in library books on any of these topics?
- Is there a link with personal experiences, professional or personal goals?
All the answers on the questions above help you to find your angle of approach for a conclusive speech. So, select a few specific angles. Those can serve as the basic main points.
Best 10 Persuasive Speech Topics
Don’t have time to read our full list of 400+ topic ideas? Here is our list of 10 best persuasive speech topics.
- Money can’t buy love or happiness
- Cooking should be taught in schools
- The minimum wage should be increased
- Advertising is a mind game
- Introverts make great leaders
- Eating meat is unethical
- Anyone under 16 should not be allowed to date
- Sustainable clothes are not really sustainable
- The penny coin should be phased out
List of Persuasive Speech Topics
- Constitutional Issues
- Easy and Simple
- Environment
- Food and Drink
- Funny and Humorous
- College Students
- International Relations
- Motivational
- National Security
- Practical Knowledge
- Relationships
10 Animal Persuasive Speech Topics
- Should more pets be adopted than bought from a breeder?
- Are pitbulls a vicious breed?
- Should a dog that has bitten somebody be executed?
- Should we tame wild animals like lions and sharks.
- Should battery farming still be legal?
- Should ‘factory farming’ be banned?
- Adopting pets is the best choice.
- How do puppy mills affect us?
- The benefits of having pets.
- Why cats make the perfect pet.
See this page for a full list of Speech Topics About Animals .
12 Automotive Persuasive Speech Topics
- Should the public first learn how to drive a manual transmission before obtaining their license?
- Drivers should have to take three courses before getting a license.
- Should young children use booster seats in vehicles?
- Hands-free cell phone use in cars should be promoted.
- Should the driving age be 14?
- The danger of texting and driving.
- Watch out for animals when driving.
- Why police should not chase a car.
- Why you should buy a Japanese car.
- Why sports cars are dangerous.
- Driving tests should be free.
- Share the road with bikes.
10 Business Persuasive Speech Topics
The world of business has so many aspects to it, but at the end of the day they are all about customer relations, about making money and about the relationship between employers and employees.
Below are topics that can be used to persuade your audience on a variety of business topics.
A tongue in cheek topic that can be used is “Hiring a lazy person isn’t always a bad thing”, this could be used to persuade an audience that often lazy people find the quickest solution to get something done, resulting in quickly completed work because they just want to get it over and done with.
- Advertising has tons of mind games.
- Advertising standards should be higher.
- The importance of understanding niche marketing.
- Why introverts make good leaders.
- Owning a business means you will lose your friends.
- Business will harden you.
- You should never go into business with family members.
- Just because someone knows you it doesn’t mean you owe them any discounts.
- To be a business owner you must learn to be well organized.
- It’s important that a business should have personality.
See this page for a full list of Persuasive Speech Topics for Business .
5 Constitutional Issues Persuasive Speech Topics
- Do you think it would be fair for the government to detain suspected terrorists without proper trial?
- Should flag burning as a form of protest be prohibited?
- Should every day begin with a silent prayer at school?
- Why alcohol should be illegal.
- Prayer in schools should not be mandatory.
10 Easy and Simple Persuasive Speech Topics
Below follow topics that should be easy enough to persuade your audience without going into too much research. There are some which can be used as ‘tongue in cheek’ topics such as ‘The paparazzi are the real stalkers’ and ‘People need to visit the dentist more often’.
- People should not text while driving.
- Celebrities who break the law should receive stiffer penalties.
- Teachers should pass a basic exam every few years to renew their certification.
- Cities should offer free bike-sharing programs.
- People should eat less junk food.
- We should do more to end poverty and world hunger.
- We should value the elders in our society and learn from their wisdom.
- Money can’t buy love or happiness.
- Children should be offered incentives for doing right, rather than punishment for wrongdoing.
- More recycling should be encouraged.
See this page for a full list of Easy and Simple Persuasive Speech Topics .
9 Economy Persuasive Speech Topics
- Should products manufactured outside the U.S. come with an additional tax?
- Buy products that are made in the USA.
- Free trade agreements are bad for workers.
- The trade deficit with China is dangerous.
- The minimum wage should be increased.
- Daylight savings time has many advantages for our economy.
- The oil companies are to blame for the rising energy prices.
- In most countries the economy is in the mighty hands of just a few multinational corporations.
- Hiring cheaper foreign employees hurts our economy.
10 Education Persuasive Speech Topics
- Teachers should have to pass a test of basic skills every decade to renew their certifications.
- Should free college tuition be offered to poor children?
- Would it be better to introduce a set of skills tests for students, before they graduate high school?
- Do you believe that students who are responsible for cyberbullying should be expelled from school?
- Would it be better if high school students completed community service hours to graduate?
- Do you think elementary and high school students should be allowed to use cell phones at school?
- Should students have to be on the honor roll in order to play sports?
- Art and music programs in public schools are an essential part of education.
- Schools should have the right to search students’ personal property (backpacks, lockers, pockets) to fight drugs in schools.
- Do you think students should be allowed to listen to music during study hall?
See this page for a full list of Education Persuasive Speech Topics .
10 Environment Persuasive Speech Topics
- Should there be stricter laws for protecting endangered species?
- Should only native plants be grown in gardens?
- More people should carpool or use public transportation.
- Should the U.S. limit the use of natural resources?
- How pollution is negatively affecting humanity.
- We should use algae to make oil instead of drilling.
- Why hydraulic fracturing should be banned.
- Why we shouldn’t use disposable diapers.
- Hybrid cars are good for the environment.
- We should keep our community clean.
See this page for a full list of Environmental Persuasive Speech Topics .
10 Ethics Persuasive Speech Topics
- Do you think female construction workers should have the same salary as male construction workers?
- Should assisted suicide be legal for people who suffer from terminal illnesses?
- Do you think the death penalty is the best punishment for dangerous criminals?
- Should you base your perspective of people on stereotypes you have heard?
- Should product testing on animals or humans be allowed?
- Why you should not choose your child’s genetics.
- Are people morally obligated to help the poor?
- Female genital mutilation should be stopped.
- Is it ethical to eat meat?
- Wearing fur is unethical.
10 Family Persuasive Speech Topics
- Should underaged people be allowed to consume alcohol at home, with parental permission?
- Should children 13 or younger be allowed to watch music videos or music channels like MTV?
- Do you think those older than 13 should be allowed into R-rated movies?
- Should teenagers be allowed to purchase violent video games?
- Is it appropriate for children to watch horror movies?
- Those under 16 should not be allowed to date.
- Parental pressure on child actors and athletes is harmful.
- Why parents should not hit their children.
- Fairy tales are good for young children.
- Why kids should not play R rated games.
See this page for a full list of Family Persuasive Speech Topics . We also have a page with Speech Topics for Kids .
6 Fashion Persuasive Speech Topics
- Men should wear pink.
- Choose an Eco-Fashion Fabrics Wardrobe!
- Are Sustainable Clothes Really Sustainable?
- Jewelry: Less Is More.
- Fashion Reveals Your True Identity.
- Fashion Is An Expression Of The Character
11 Financial Persuasive Speech Topics
- Why banks should ban hats and sunglasses to avoid robberies.
- Student loans should be forgiven.
- Reservation casinos are only beneficial if managed correctly.
- National debt is everyones problem.
- Purchasing a car is smarter than leasing one.
- The Japanese yen is affected by the weakness of the dollar.
- The Euro currency will oust the dollar.
- The Chinese Yuan / Japanese Yen / European Euro will all surpass the Dollar as leading currency.
- Phase the penny coin out.
- Severe budget cuts are the only way to maximise good financial results.
- Keeping a close eye on personal finance is key in achieving something in life.
15 Food and Drink Persuasive Speech Topics
- Genetically modified foods should be labeled.
- Do you believe companies who manufacture alcohol should be allowed to advertise on TV?
- Every child should learn to cook.
- Cooking should be taught in schools.
- Should we donate unused food from supermarkets?
- The history of added sugar in our food.
- We should all grow our own vegetables.
- Eat more fruits and vegetables.
- The promise of genetically engineered food.
- Why peanuts are amazing.
- Drink more orange juice.
- Why people should cook.
- Farmers’ markets should be increased.
- Eating organic is good for your health.
- Get artificial hormones out of food.
See this page for a full list of Speech Topic Ideas On Food, Drink, and Cooking .
10 Fun Persuasive Speech Topics
Fun topics are a great way to get people to listen to what you have to say, because when they are entertained they listen more carefully. Fun topics also help the speaker be more at ease, because the topics are more relaxed. Below follow 100 topics that you can have fun with while persuading your audience. .
- Ghosts are not real.
- We all need to be childish.
- Smokers have more acquaintances.
- Music has the power to heal.
- Diamonds are a girls best friends.
- Couples need to live together before getting married.
- Allow kids to believe in Santa.
- Pick up lines do work.
- Cake is not cake if it is dry.
- Parents must be prepared for the ‘birds and bees’ talk.
See this page for a full list of Fun Persuasive Speech Topics .
10 Funny and Humorous Persuasive Speech Topics
Humour is a fabulous way to get people’s attention. Below are questions and statement topics that can be used to get your points across on a variety of topics.
It is important to remember that there can be a fine line between funny and insulting. So use wit and make it fun without insulting your audience. This would be important to remember with a title like ‘The most dangerous animal out there is a silent woman’.
- Blondes are not as dumb as they look.
- Why funny pick-up lines work.
- Guys gossip more than girls do.
- You should not be Facebook friends with your mom.
- If things go wrong, your horoscope is to blame.
- Students should not have to do a persuasive speech in front of a large audience.
- Millennials should stop wearing spandex yoga pants all the time.
- Dads are more fun than moms.
- Argumentative essays are pointless.
- Shoes that don’t fit right are hazardous to your health.
See this page for a full list of Funny Persuasive Speech Topics .
16 Government Persuasive Speech Topics
- Do you believe there should be stricter federal restrictions regarding content on the internet?
- Should employers be required to post job opportunities on a government-run website?
- The government should provide shelter for the homeless.
- Should the state fund schools run by religions?
- Whose face should be printed on the newest bank note?
- Do you believe Puerto Rico should become a state?
- Our nation’s justice system needs to be improved.
- Should the government have a say in our diets?
- The military budget must be decreased.
- Should people get drug tested for state aid?
- How policy works in local government.
- The government should increase funding of Amtrak.
- Fixing potholes should be a priority of local government.
- Eminent domain should be used rarely.
- The war on drugs is a failure.
- Zoning laws should be common sense.
10 Health Persuasive Speech Topics
- Female minors should be allowed to get birth control without telling their parents.
- Should stem cell researchers be able to use cells from aborted babies to help cure diseases?
- Should doctors be allowed to prescribe contraception for girls under 16?
- Do you think it would be better if the USA had a universal health care system?
- Do you believe free condoms should be distributed in schools?
- Regular exercise will improve your health.
- Restaurants should post all ingredients to prevent allergic reactions.
- Do you believe fast food should come with a warning label?
- The use of animals in medical research is a necessary evil.
- Seat belts ensure all passengers a safer ride.
See this page for a full list of Persuasive Speech Topics on Health and Fitness . We also have a page with Medical Topics .
10 School Persuasive Speech Topics
School is a whole new world, where students discover more about themselves and life around them. These are topics that students will most likely have to deal with at some point during their elementary, middle, and high school careers.
- High school students should be allowed to have cell phones in school.
- High school students should not have to wear school uniforms.
- All high school students should learn a foreign language.
- Girls should be allowed to play on the boys’ sports teams.
- High school students should be required to do community service.
- Extracurricular activities are important for your future.
- Students should be able to stay up late, even on school nights.
- Peer pressure helps students grow as individuals.
- Students should have healthy food options.
- Students should be paid for getting good grades.
See this page for a full list of Persuasive Speech Topics for School Students .
10 College Students Persuasive Speech Topics
The following topics are for college students and about the many different aspects that they will deal with during their time in college.
- College textbooks should be replaced by iPads.
- Mobile phones should be switched off during a lecture.
- College students shouldn’t skip classes.
- Students shouldn’t study something that they are not passionate about.
- Gap years are actually a very good idea.
- Notes should always be taken in class.
- Student loans are expensive and students need to understand what they are getting themselves into.
- Students should get to know other students.
- It’s smart to get the harder classes out of the way first.
- Taking summer classes will help students get ahead of schedule.
See this page for a full list of Persuasive Speech Topics for College Students .
10 Teens Persuasive Speech Topics
The following topics are aimed at teens and subjects which are important and matter to teens.
- Teenage girls should be on birth control.
- Teenage boys are lazier than girls.
- Teens should have weekend jobs.
- Homework should not be given.
- Being popular isn’t a good thing.
- Teens are obsessed with scary things.
- Chores shouldn’t be paid for.
- Sex education must be compulsory.
- Exchange student programs for all students.
- Free time gets teens into trouble.
See this page for a full list of Great Speech Topics for Teens .
5 History Persuasive Speech Topics
- Did the U.S. Army provide their soldiers drugs during the Vietnam war?
- African- American achievements should be celebrated.
- Why Lincoln was the best President.
- Revisionist history is dangerous.
- The moon landing was a lie.
See this page for a full list of History Speech Topics .
10 Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics
Interesting topics will always have an audience glued to every word, even when they may disagree with your point of view. Ultimately it is your job to persuade them that your view is in fact correct.
These topics have a mix of simpler speeches such as “Pick up lines do work” here both humour and a few examples of pick up lines have worked will get you going in the right direction. For a speech with a bit more research put into it there are topics such as “Stem cell research in murder”.
- The standards of beauty are never the same.
- Princess Diana was killed.
- Energy drinks are dangerous.
- School day needs to involve less sitting and more exercise.
- No credit cards for under 25.
- Healthy relationships require conflicts.
- Everyone needs medical insurance.
- Tooth whitening is out of control.
- In future air planes won’t crash.
- Business should hire more apprentices.
See this page for a full list of Persuasive Interesting Speech Topics .
13 International Relations Persuasive Speech Topics
- Do you think it is time for the United States to suspend overseas military operations?
- The U.S. should cut off all foreign aid to dictatorships.
- Why you should volunteer in a developing country.
- Should Scotland be a country of its own?
- China will be the next superpower.
- Is any nation truly independent?
- Should women drive in Saudi Arabia?
- Foreign oil dependence is dangerous.
- Weapons disarmament should be increased.
- The war in Iraq was a mistake.
- The United Nations is important in defusing international crises.
- Human rights should be advanced all over the world.
- China will be the almighty economic superpower by 2025.
10 Law Persuasive Speech Topics
- Should those who are caught driving after consuming alcohol lose their driver’s license for one year?
- Should it be illegal to drive while talking on the phone?
- Should illegal music and movie downloads be prosecuted?
- Do you believe illegal immigrants should be allowed to apply for a driver’s license?
- Should motorcyclists have to wear a helmet?
- People over 65 should be required to take a bi-annual driver’s test.
- Should the driving age be raised to 21?
- Should assault weapons be legal?
- Should known gang members be prohibited from public parks?
- Do you think it should be illegal for people to curse on TV during daytime?
See this page for a full list of Legal Speech Topics .
3 Literature Persuasive Speech Topics
- Why reading is more beneficial than watching television.
- Why it is a good idea to read Fifty Shades of Grey.
- Why people need to read more books.
17 Media Persuasive Speech Topics
- Why it’s wrong for the media to promote a certain beauty standard.
- Is the media responsible for the moral degradation of teens?
- Do magazines marketed to teenagers send the wrong message?
- Why Disney should not be making Star Wars movies.
- Why you should study photography.
- Should certain T.V. shows have age restrictions?
- Why the media is to blame for eating disorders.
- The media does not force us to worship false icons.
- Why the Russian should have beat Rocky.
- Television is harmful to children.
- Why comic books are good to read.
- Some TV shows are educational.
- Make TV more educational.
- We need more funding for public television and radio.
- Violence on television should be regulated.
- Cable TV monopolies destroy competition.
- Katniss Everdeen would alienate Harry Potter.
10 Motivational Persuasive Speech Topics
- School leaders must shape high-achieving learning curricula for students.
- Set a clear goal and devote all your positive energy toward reaching it.
- What to do for people who have no motivation to live a happy life.
- The art of moral imagination is the key to intellectual and spiritual development.
- Why it is hard to follow your dream.
- What keep most of us from following the voice of your heart when it comes to love or even discovery travelling?
- Overcome your stage fright and fear of public speaking.
- Begin with forming a moral tool set when children are young and build further when they are at least 18 years old.
- Aim straightforward in whatever project you undertake, and emphasize and evaluate what you want to achieve often in between the completed parts of the total planning.
- Prudence is an effort you can turn non-believers into believers in your plans.
See this page for a full list of Speech Topics For Motivational Speaking .
6 Music Persuasive Speech Topics
- Why the French horn should be played more.
- Should schools allow uncensored songs at school dances?
- How listening to music could improve your day.
- Why music is beneficial to society.
- MP3 music should be free.
- Rock music is better than Country & Western.
6 National Security Persuasive Speech Topics
- Are intensive security screenings essential for those who travel in airplanes?
- Negotiating with terrorists is sometimes justifiable.
- Should police carry firearms?
- Homosexuals belong in the military.
- Women benefit the military in many ways.
- Should police carry toy guns?
10 Politics Persuasive Speech Topics
- Should it be legal for politicians to accept campaign contributions from corporate lobbyists?
- Why you should vote.
- Ban abusive language in elections.
- Why you should know Bernie Sanders.
- Term limits need to be respected.
- Give Kurdistan back to the Kurds.
- Zimbabwe is the next drama in world politics.
- Central Asian states could become a threat.
- America is not the world’s policeman.
- Globalization pays off.
See this page for a full list of Speech Topics about Politics .
3 Practical Knowledge Persuasive Speech Topics
- Basic survival skills are important to know.
- Basic camping skills everyone should know.
- Personal hygiene is important for professional success.
7 Psychology Persuasive Speech Topics
- Intelligence depends more on the environment than genetics.
- Human development depends primarily on environmental factors.
- Why we should not see psychologists.
- Why do we need to love and to be loved?
- Can money give you happiness?
- Why introverts make the best public speakers.
- Verbal abuse can be much more destructive than physical.
See this page for a full list of Psychology Speech Topics .
23 Relationships Persuasive Speech Topics
- Should young people have internet relationships?
- Men and women speak a different language of love.
- Long distance relationships are possible.
- Why it is important to live together before marriage.
- Teens should live with their friends once a week.
- Jealousy can be a disease.
- Most people say they will break up with a cheating partner, but in the end most people do not.
- Counseling is the solution for working through relationship problems.
- Intimacy is the key to a successful relationship.
- Women cheat more than men do.
- Interreligious Relationships – Love between two people can never be forbidden.
- Arranged marriages must be outlawed.
- Asking someone to wear a condom shows a lack of trust.
- Celibacy is outdated.
- Cheating isn’t wrong if you do it well.
- Co-workers should never date.
- Dating behavior rules are simple for girls: No means No, not Yes.
- Living together before marriage will lower the divorce rate.
- Men and women speak different languages in love matters.
- People only need one good friend.
- Polygamy should be allowed.
- You will learn most from friends that are different from you.
- Romance works best the old fashioned way.
8 Religion Persuasive Speech Topics
- Should public schools teach world religions?
- Students should be allowed to pray in school.
- Women should be priests.
- Religious conflict must be avoided.
- Why Islam is a peaceful religion.
- Islamic fundamentalism is not true Islam.
- Religious cults are dangerous.
- Faith in God should be protected.
See this page for a full list of Topics on Religion and Spirituality .
10 Science Persuasive Speech Topics
- Do you think the United States government should spend more on space programs?
- Why should we be aware of what is happening in outer space?
- Why Pluto should still be considered a planet.
- Mars was the same as Earth in the past.
- Why you should donate your body to science.
- We need more scientific advancements.
- Qualitative research is more preferable than quantitative research.
- Religion and science do not mix. (Or: they do.)
- Scientists have the duty to translate their findings in normal language.
- Theories are useless if they can not be transformed into strategies.
See this page for a full list of Persuasive Science Speech Topics .
11 Self-Help Persuasive Speech Topics
- Art is a stress reliever and can reduce depression.
- With hardwork and determination anyone can be successful.
- Why we should live life spontaneously.
- Improve your time management.
- Embarrassing moments make you stronger.
- Be true to yourself.
- Dress for success.
- How to continue your personal growth.
- The importance of self- confidence.
- If you don’t give up, you’ll make it.
- Talking to yourself can be beneficial.
10 Society Persuasive Speech Topics
- Should larger passengers be obliged to purchase two plane tickets, or two movie tickets?
- Should American families have no more than two children, in order to control population growth?
- Should property owners be obliged to clean the snow from sidewalks on their property?
- Should there be a cop in every bar to make sure people do not drink and drive?
- Do you believe that older people should receive free bus rides?
- Should all citizens of the USA complete one year of community service?
- Do you believe it is time for America to use the metric system?
- Why it should be mandatory for all students to stand for the pledge.
- Do you believe that cities should provide free wireless internet?
- Why living in the country is better than the city.
See this page for a full list of Persuasive Society Speech Topics .
10 Sport Persuasive Speech Topics
Some sports topics can quickly turn into an argument between fans so keep in mind that special care should be taken with some of the suggested topics.
The term soccer was used to distinguished between soccer and American football, feel free to use the term football for those countries that do not use the term soccer.
- Should some musical groups, such as marching band and show choir, be considered a sport?
- Do you think cities should have a bike sharing system?
- Should college athletes be paid?
- Why baseball players should take drug tests before playing.
- High school football programs should receive less funding.
- Female sports should be given equal coverage by the media.
- Should drug tests be mandatory for professional athletes?
- Should athletes be paid less?
- Should drug tests be mandatory for school athletes?
- Winning is not as important as trying your best.
See this page for a full list of Persuasive Sports Speech Topics .
28 Technology Persuasive Speech Topics
- Google and other search engines will be the death of libraries.
- Make sure to backup your computer files several times a day.
- What kind of influence will technology have on our future?
- Printing photos is better than keeping them on a computer.
- Do you believe internet censorship is inappropriate?
- Should nuclear power be used?
- How technology will change our lives.
- Internet could do more to free deaf people from their social isolation.
- Should screen time also be limited for adults?
- Why the government should regulate technology.
- Technology is making people less creative.
- Technology has made life better.
- Why Microsoft Word products should be free.
- Why you should not buy an iPhone.
- Anti-piracy software does not work.
- Internet chatrooms are not safe.
- The amount of spam you see in your mailbox is just the tip of the iceberg.
- We are addicted to the internet.
- Put down your phone and connect with people.
- Electronics are making kids lazy.
- How does a search engine work?
- Apple music should be free.
- The importance of the internet.
- Internet gambling needs more regulation.
- Computer literacy should be increased.
- The importance of internet fraud awareness.
- Why selfies are a thing of the past.
- People who say they do not need or want to use the world wide web are insane.
12 Travel Persuasive Speech Topics
- Why you should go to Bermuda.
- Why airline tickets should be cheaper.
- Traveling makes you more open-minded.
- Always report travel complaints as soon as possible when back home.
- Backpacking means every day unexpected adventures if you are open for it
- If there was no tourism there would be much more poverty.
- Support eco-tourism.
- Tourism ruins historical sites and there should be placed warning signs to awake them.
- Extreme air turbulence can be fatal.
- Fly First Class at least once in your lifetime.
- The best way to travel is in a guided group.
- Antarctica should be closed for tourists and scientists
8 Workplace Persuasive Speech Topics
- Should large corporations hire a number of minorities that are proportionate to the population?
- Do you think 14 year olds should be allowed to hold jobs?
- Why you should choose a high paying job over a fun job.
- Why everyone should work retail once in their life.
- Tipping should be mandatory in restaurants.
- Women make better managers than men.
- The importance of office parties.
- Labor unions should be protected.
Our list of topics is by far the best list you will find online – both in terms of quantity and quality. We add and remove ideas weekly to keep the list up-to-date.
Many timely persuasive speech topics can be found on radio, TV, your local newspaper, or your Facebook and Twitter feeds. We also have Argumentative (which is a type of persuasive speech on a controversial issue) and Policy topics . If you know of a cool topic, please send it to us and we will publish it on our page with fresh topics.
For persuasive essay topic ideas have a look at our list of Interesting Research Paper topics : these can be easily adapted for persuasive speeches.
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50 thoughts on “434 Good Persuasive Speech Topics”
Thank You! 🙂 Very helpful and inspiring and you get a good laugh out of these topics, wish me luck on my test.
That was some awesome topics for my college presentation thanks for the help 🙂
Thank you so much i got a 82 on my speech! I talked about how women don’t have rights, and that they should be in the kitchen. Thank you again!!!
These topics are good I like give speech. Speech good for speaking. thank for topics
Why smoking can help you make friends
These topic are good. Thank you so much..
Really helpful, I pro-formed a speech outlining why exactly unfaithful thots should be be vanquished from our society. Got a 69.
Thanks so much! I did a speech on the unfaithful thots of our society and the plague being wrought upon the population. We need a solution. Some might say a final, solution.
These topics are great. Thank you
OMG thank you sooooo mush you literally saved my life.
Thankkkk youuuuuuuuuuuuu sooooo much these topics are amazing and thank you for saving my life my speech was why airlines should be cheeper and i got a 99
Great topics but there is no R rating for video games. (Family, Topic 10)
Thank you so much this was really helpful!!!!
these are good topics because im in 5th grade in my class right now and we are starting pursasive right now
Why sex education important
Are pitbulls a vicious breed
Germany is the best
Does Lightning McQueen have Life Insurance or Car Insurance ?
Correction: why cats make the purrfect pet.
thank you this is a very helpful and inspiring topics
These were good and helpful. This was exactly what I needed for my speech. Thanks to whoever came up with all of these.
Thank you so much. My speech on getting Belle Delphine banned got 69%
Thank you so much, this was inspiring and helpful.
ok, so I know im the only one that did this but its actually 414 speech topics so!!!!!11
This was v helpful- thank you! i did that Princess Diana was murdered and was very easy to be passionate about it – thx again!
very nice. help alot.me like moon landing one. thought was funny.
i love ThiS website SO MUCH it helped me with my speech endlessly and will be forever greatful xxx <3 <3
Why water causes cancer
Why Sped kids should have more special attention in schools?
-Tax the freaking pants off the 1%
-Only highly education education specialists should make laws regarding education
-Schools should implement standards that require more recess and P.E. and no homework
did a speach on koalas being nuclearly reactive thx sm
please tell kate to stop trying to help with my academics in writing thanks xx
Should kids be allowed to kick their parents out of the house when they get caught doing bad things
cheating isnt wrong if you do it well
i personally think that this website helped a lot i think you should add a kpop section just for who is interester ^0^ thank you 🙂
I made a speech explaining why toothbrushing should be mandatory and it got a 69
thanks so much i got a 69 on my speech about free robux
thanks bro i got a 69% on my speech about how i would eat henrique all night
Couldn’t find a topic but site was amazing! Henrique on the other hand
thanks got me a 100
Those were so helpful wish me luck on my test
henrique is kind of annoying but a good website
i’m thinking a speech on the flash sounds perfect.
Thank youuu so muchhh!!!!!! This was so helpful and rly helped me find new perspectives to look from. I wrote my speech on how men are animals, have no rights, and should be locked in mines and milked for their semen. I also found out im pregnant guys!!!! Time to find out if it’s a girl or an abortion!!!!!
I got the best speech topic.thank goodness.I only got an hour to finish.
why can’t we make toast in the bath
Why teens shouldn’t have sex before marriage.
I laughed so hard at “students should not have to do a persuasive speech in front of public audiences”
is this the real life, or is it just a fantasy?
this site was so good i found nothing! thank goodness i got a 0% my grades are rising
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© 2024 My Speech Class
27 Persuasive Speech Topics to Captivate Your Audience
- The Speaker Lab
- June 13, 2024
Table of Contents
If you’ve ever written a persuasive speech, chances are you’ve struggled to choose a persuasive speech topic . It makes sense, right? You want to speak on something relevant yet unique, timely but timeless. Sometimes it feels like every good idea is already taken or too controversial. Or maybe the topic you’re considering seems too bland and won’t stir the pot enough. CEOs, entrepreneurs, authors—everyone with something important to say faces this challenge.
Well, fear not. We’ve got some fresh ideas for persuasive speech topics coming right up. These aren’t your high school debate prompts; they’re designed for individuals ready to make waves across industries and impact audiences. So if you’re on a mission to reshape perceptions and create genuine transformation, stick around.
Understanding the Power of Persuasion
Before we dive into these topics, let’s get one thing straight: understanding persuasion in speech is like having a superpower. But what makes some speeches stick with us forever? Persuasive speaking works its charm by tapping into our emotions and reasoning. It’s that perfect blend of ethos, pathos, and logos that the Greek philosopher Aristotle talked about centuries ago.
- Ethos: This is all about credibility. If the audience trusts the speaker (you), they’re more likely to be on board with your message.
- Pathos: Here’s where emotions come into play. The right emotional appeal can make an audience start to see things your way.
- Logos: Logic seals the deal. A well-reasoned argument backed by solid facts? Hard to argue against that.
This trio works together to create a kind of spellbinding effect that doesn’t just persuade, but also sticks with your audience long after the talk has ended. With these three rhetorical appeals in hand, you can do more than convince; you can transform thinking and ignite action because your persuasive speech topic resonates on a deeply personal level for each listener.
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Choosing Persuasive Speech Topics That Resonate With Your Audience
Tailoring your topic to your audience isn’t just important; it’s everything when it comes to persuasion. After all, if you don’t know who you’re talking to, how will you grab their attention? Imagine chatting about quantum physics with a room full of poets or discussing poetry at a tech conference. See the mismatch? Choosing the right persuasive speech topic means finding one that resonates deeply with your listeners’ lives and experiences.
To analyze your audience effectively, you’re going to want to do a little digging ahead of time.
- Dig into Demographics: Age, occupation, education level—these aren’t just numbers and titles; they’re clues into what might spark interest.
- Catch the Cultural Cues: What cultural backgrounds are present in your audience? Understanding their cultural fabric can influence what makes them laugh, what they hold sacred, and even the subjects that might be touchy.
- Tune into their Concerns: What keeps them up at night? Whether it’s climate change or personal finance, aligning your speech here can keep your audience engaged.
In essence, knowing your audience means respecting them enough to make sure they walk away feeling heard and understood rather than preached at or overlooked. And guess what? When folks feel respected and valued, they listen more closely.
Exploring Persuasive Speech Topics
Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or just starting out on your public speaking journey, choosing persuasive speech topics that resonate with audiences can feel difficult. However, knowing who’s sitting in your audience can make that decision a lot easier. Analyzing your audience ensures that your message hits home and sparks interest and debate. Consider some of the categories below as you brainstorm your speech topic.
- Current Events and Social Issues: Hot off the press. These topics are fresh, relevant, and have everyone talking already. You’re halfway there.
- Ethical Dilemmas and Moral Questions: Moral dilemmas offer rich soil for persuasion because they invite listeners to explore their values.
- Technology and Innovation: Tech shapes our future every day. Discuss its impacts or ethical considerations for endless engagement.
- Health and Wellness: This area touches everyone’s life at some point. From diet fads to healthcare policies—if it affects well-being, people want to hear about it.
- Educational Reform and Policy Changes: Schools shape societies’ futures; thus discussions around education reforms carry weight for many listeners looking toward tomorrow’s promise.
Your chosen topic doesn’t need to be grandiose or controversial. Sometimes simplicity speaks volumes more than we give it credit for. When crafting your persuasive speech, the goal is simply to choose a topic that both informs and transforms perspectives.
Current Events and Social Issues
Diving into the realm of current events and societal debates has the power to transform a decent speech into one that lingers in memory. Why? By engaging with present-day events and societal dilemmas, we are moved, provoked, and occasionally our perspectives on life are profoundly altered.
So, let’s dive right in. Here are some persuasive speech topics that are not just timely but packed with potential to spark debate, drive change, or at least get people thinking.
- Climate Change: It’s been talked about for years, but with wildfires raging and ice caps melting it’s a more critical topic than ever. How can we not only stop but reverse the damage?
- Social Justice Movements: From Black Lives Matter to Stop Asian Hate, these movements have stirred conversations worldwide. In what ways are governments expected to step up and guarantee fairness among their citizens? How can each person pitch in meaningfully to support these vital movements?
- The Tech Takeover: Technology is shaping our future, but at what cost? Let’s talk digital privacy rights or AI ethics.
- Mental Health Awareness: With a global pandemic throwing life as we know it out of balance, mental health has taken center stage. How do we build societies that support mental wellness?
Right now, we’re smack in the middle of events that will fill history books for generations to come. Each of these topics isn’t just relevant; they’re urgent. But remember this: while diving deep into any of them could make for powerful persuasive speeches, always aim for empathy over controversy.
Ethical Dilemmas and Moral Questions
We live in an era teeming with issues ripe for debate—climate change action versus economic growth challenges; genetic engineering marvels against ethical quandaries; digital age freedoms wrestling with security needs—the list goes on. Persuasive essay topics that deal with ethical dilemmas and moral questions can be great ways to challenge your audience—and even yourself. Take a look:
- Government Surveillance: Is it a necessary protection or an invasion of privacy?
- Vaccine Mandates: Is it a public health safety net or a personal freedom infringement?
- Data Privacy vs. Technological Advancement: Where do we draw the line?
- Artificial Intelligence: Should machines have rights like humans do?
Good persuasive speeches do more than wade through facts. They spark engaging dialogues, challenge people’s beliefs, and maybe even alter their viewpoints. Exploring persuasive speech topics about ethics and morality forces us to dig deeper and frequently nudges us beyond the boundaries of our comfort zones. But here’s the kicker: they also make your speech unforgettable.
Technology and Innovation
Technology’s relentless pace has us all on our toes, wondering what’s next. As a result, it gives us plenty of persuasive speech topics to consider.
- AI Ethics: Artifical intelligence can be a force for good, but it can also have negative outcomes, like the loss of jobs. Should it be regulated? If so, how?
- Data Privacy: What responsibility do corporations have to consumers when it comes to data privacy? This would be a great topic to explore data and privacy rights.
- Gene Editing: Thanks to technology like CRISPR, it’s now possible to edit genetic code. But is it ethical to edit the genes of humans, either born or unborn? How far is too far?
- Elon’s Mars Mission: Is exploring other planets our human duty or a waste of resources?
With technology moving faster than legislation can keep up, posing these questions is vital. Without scrutiny, technology can quickly become a dangerous tool, so it’s important to spend time exploring its implications. Whether you’re prepping for your next persuasive speech or simply want to stay informed, digging into these topics is a great way to keep your audience engaged and informed.
Health and Wellness
When it comes to persuasive speech topics, health-related issues pack a punch like no other because, well, who isn’t interested in living their best life? In addition, it’s a topic that everyone can easily relate to because our well-being is something that we all think about. As far the specific issue you choose, you’ll want to look back on the research you did on your audience. Are they fitness buffs looking for the next challenge or parents concerned about family nutrition? Tailor your topic accordingly.
- Effects of the Pandemic: Dive into how global pandemics reshape public health policies.
- Mental Health: In what capacity is mental health affected by technology? Is social media a concern? If so, what steps should parents take to protect themselves and their children in an increasingly digital world?
- Artificial Intelligence: Chat about wearable tech transforming personal wellness or AI’s role in advancing healthcare solutions.
- Educational Reform & Policy Changes: Debate the necessity of nutritional education in schools or argue for more accessible healthcare services.
Health is a great topic for persuasive speeches because if there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s wanting good health—not just for us but generations to come.
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Education Reform and Policy Changes
Schooling serves as the cornerstone for nurturing groundbreaking advancements, fostering fairness, and upholding democratic values. However, these days, many are calling for education reform . These voices challenge us to question norms, imagine new possibilities, and rally for collective action. Of course, not everyone sees eye-to-eye on what needs changing in our schools or how to do it. So before you pick one of the topics below, again, make sure you understand who you’re talking to. That’s step one towards making an impact.
- Standardized Testing: How necessary is it and who really benefits from it?
- Educational Funding: What is causing funding inequities between rich and poor districts? How might this be addressed? What solutions have been tried and have they worked?
- School Curriculum: How should schools implement inclusive curriculums reflecting diverse histories and experiences?
Before change can occur, questions must be asked. By posing questions about the state of education in the U.S., you can challenge what people really know about the system in place. And who knows? You just might surprise yourself by what you find.
Exploring persuasive speech topics is the first step towards delivering a memorable speech. When you understand the power behind every word and meet your audience’s expectations, you can craft messages that resonate.
Potential topics range from current events to technology and innovation. Even ethical dilemmas can turn into a great persuasive speech when handled carefully. Similarly, speaking on health and wellness turns personal goals into universal concerns that are sure to grip your audience. Last but not least, educational reform provides plenty of room for conversation, as it’s sure to affect generations to come.
These aren’t just topics, though. When you stand before an audience next time around, remember: you’re not just delivering a speech—you’re igniting change one word at a time.
- Last Updated: June 12, 2024
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121 Top Persuasive Speech Topics
Ever found yourself tongue-tied when trying to convince someone of your brilliant idea? Or maybe you’re just looking for a topic that will spark lively debate in your next class or meeting. A powerful persuasive speech can change minds, influence decisions, and even inspire action. But where do you start?
This blog features 121 persuasive speech topics carefully selected to cover a wide range of interests, from current events and social issues to personal beliefs and ethical dilemmas.
Table of Contents
What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?
A good topic is one that you, as the speaker, are passionate about. Your enthusiasm will naturally shine through, making your speech more engaging and persuasive. If you genuinely believe in what you’re saying, your audience is more likely to be swayed by your arguments. A persuasive speech is not just about presenting facts; it’s about connecting with your audience on an emotional level and inspiring them to see things from your perspective.
A good persuasive speech topic sparks interest and encourages critical thinking. It should be a subject that people care about, with actual implications and potential for debate. A complex topic with multiple facets allows for deeper exploration and the opportunity to present a well-rounded argument. Controversial topics that aren’t black and white are particularly effective as they invite diverse perspectives and encourage the audience to question their assumptions.
Equally important is the availability of credible evidence to support your claims. A strong persuasive speech relies on factual information from reputable sources, not just personal opinions or anecdotes. The ability to back up your arguments with solid evidence adds weight to your message and makes it more convincing.
121 Persuasive Speech Topics
Crafting a truly compelling persuasive speech requires a delicate balance. It’s a challenge to discover a topic that both captivates your audience and genuinely excites you. Your chosen subject should be fresh, unique, and thought-provoking, yet it must avoid crossing the line into offense. This balancing act can make finding the perfect topic feel like an elusive pursuit.
To help you on this journey, we’ve curated a list of persuasive speech topics, thoughtfully organized by category. This diverse assortment aims to spark your creativity and lead you toward a subject that resonates deeply with both you and your listeners.
Arts and culture
- Is graffiti art?
- Should art classes be mandatory for all students?
- Should we continue 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 biopics of deceased musicians and artists ethical?
- Is modern music really worse than old?
- Should paparazzi be banned and unable to sell their photos?
- Should post-secondary education be free?
- Should a year 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 fraternities 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?
- Should schools do a better job teaching students a second language?
- Should schools teach sign language?
- What age should students be taught sex education?
- Should distant learning be encouraged or avoided at all costs?
- 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 embryos?
- How should we address the homelessness crisis, and who is responsible for it?
- Should minors who commit violent crimes be charged and tried as adults?
Environment
- Can we ever live in a truly ‘green’ and environmentally friendly society?
- Should plastic 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 to entirely renewable energy?
- Do low-income families have the same duty 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?
- 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 living wages?
- Should the minimum wage be doubled?
- Should everyone adapt to the four-day workweek?
- 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?
- 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 to vote?
- Should political party funding be regulated?
- Should political smear campaigns be banned?
- Is there political bias in mainstream media?
- Should you date someone with opposing political views?
- Is the government spending too much on the military sector?
- 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 its high-calorie 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 workweek to reduce stress?
- Should nurses be paid more?
- Should smoking be banned?
- Should insurance companies fully cover rehabilitation stays for health issues such as eating disorders?
- 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 spend millions on the Olympic Games?
- Do people place 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?
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 use damaging real-life interactions?
- Is social media distorting democracy?
Science and 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 in cancer research?
- Should cloning be illegal?
- Should societies colonize other planets?
- Should there be legal oversight of technology development?
- Should students sing Christmas carols, say the pledge of allegiance, or perform other tangentially religious activities?
- Should nuns and priests assume 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?
- What makes a hero?
- Are we headed toward World War III?
- Did humans really land on the moon?
- Are serial killers born or made?
- Can good and evil be separated neatly?
- Is canceling 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 should students start investing at 16?
- The true history of… (events of your choice, such as the Chernobyl disaster, the Black Plague, Salem Witch Trials, etc.)
How to Choose a Persuasive Speech Topic?
It’s essential to choose a topic that not only interests you but also resonates with your audience. Begin by brainstorming ideas that you are passionate about or issues you feel strongly about. Consider current events, social issues, or controversial topics that spark debate.
Narrow down your options by researching the potential topics. Gather information from reputable sources to ensure you have enough material to support your arguments. Evaluate the relevance and significance of each topic for your target audience. A persuasive speech should aim to inform, influence, or motivate the listeners, so choose a topic that will engage them.
After narrowing your choices, analyze the feasibility of each topic. Consider the time limit for your speech and the resources available for research. Choose a topic that you can adequately address within the given time frame and for which you can gather sufficient evidence to support your claims.
Most importantly, choose the topic that you believe will have the most impact on your audience. A persuasive speech should leave a lasting impression, so choose a topic that you can present with conviction and enthusiasm. Consider the potential counterarguments and be prepared to address them effectively. With careful consideration and research, you can choose a persuasive speech topic that will captivate your audience and leave them pondering your message.
10 Elements of a Good Persuasive Speech Topic
A persuasive speech aims to convince the audience to agree with your viewpoint. To achieve this, a well-written persuasive speech incorporates several key elements:
1. Compelling topic
The foundation of a persuasive speech lies in choosing a topic that is relevant, interesting, and has the potential to spark debate. It should be a subject you are passionate about and knowledgeable about, as this will enhance your credibility and enthusiasm.
2. Clear thesis statement
A concise and well-defined thesis statement serves as the backbone of the speech. It clearly outlines your stance on the topic and provides an outlook for the arguments that will follow.
3. Strong introduction
The introduction is crucial to capture the audience’s attention and establish your credibility. It should begin with a hook, such as a thought-provoking question, a surprising statistic, or a relevant anecdote, to pique the audience’s interest.
4. Well-structured body
The body of the speech is where you’ll present your arguments and supporting evidence. Each argument should be logically organized and supported by credible sources, statistics, examples, or personal anecdotes.
5. Effective use of rhetorical devices
Rhetorical devices such as repetition, parallelism, rhetorical questions, and analogies can enhance the impact of the speech and make it more persuasive. They help to emphasize key points, create emotional appeal, and engage the audience.
6. Appealing to emotions (pathos)
Connecting with the audience on an emotional level is important for persuasion. The speaker (you) can evoke emotions such as empathy, fear, hope, or anger by using vivid language, personal stories, or powerful imagery.
7. Establishing credibility (ethos)
Your credibility is critical to gaining the audience’s trust. This can be achieved by demonstrating expertise on the topic, citing credible sources, and presenting oneself as confident and knowledgeable.
8. Logical reasoning (logos)
A persuasive speech should be grounded in logical reasoning. The arguments presented should be coherent, well-supported, and free of fallacies. Using data, statistics, and expert opinions can reinforce the logical appeal of the speech.
9. Addressing counterarguments
Acknowledging and addressing opposing viewpoints shows that you have considered different perspectives and strengthened your argument. By refuting counterarguments effectively, you can further convince the audience of your stance.
10. Strong conclusion
The conclusion is the final opportunity to leave a lasting impression on the audience. It should summarize the main points, reiterate the thesis statement, and end with a call to action or a powerful closing statement that resonates with the audience.
How to Create a Persuasive Speech
Creating a persuasive speech involves a strategic approach that combines compelling content, effective delivery, and a deep understanding of your audience. It’s not just about stating your viewpoint; it’s about addressing an argument that resonates and motivates others to see things your way.
Begin by choosing a topic that you’re passionate about and that holds relevance for your audience. Thoroughly research your topic to gather credible evidence, statistics, and expert opinions to support your claims. A well-informed speech is more likely to persuade.
Organize your speech into a clear and logical structure. Start with a strong introduction that grabs attention and establishes your credibility. State your thesis clearly, outlining the main points you’ll address. The body of your speech should coherently present your arguments, using evidence and examples to back up each point. Conclude with a summary and a call to action that inspires your audience to adopt your viewpoint.
Practice your speech beforehand to ensure you’re comfortable with the material and can speak with confidence and conviction. Maintain eye contact with your audience, use appropriate gestures, and modulate your voice to keep them engaged. Consider using visual aids, such as slides or props, to enhance your presentation.
Tailor your language and approach to your specific audience. Consider their demographics, beliefs, and values to ensure your message resonates with them. Use persuasive techniques such as emotional appeals, logical reasoning, and personal anecdotes to connect with your listeners on a deeper level.
From the Desk of Yocket
Persuasive speech topics are the heart and soul of any effective discourse that aims to influence an audience’s beliefs or actions. A well-chosen topic can spark curiosity, start a debate, and leave a lasting impact on listeners. It’s important to choose a subject that not only resonates with your passions and knowledge but also holds relevance and interest for your intended audience.
Finding the balance between personal connection and audience appeal is key. A topic that genuinely excites you will naturally translate into a more engaging and persuasive presentation. Whether it’s a pressing social issue, a controversial policy, or a lesser-known historical event, the right topic can be a catalyst for meaningful dialogue and inspire others to see the world from a new perspective. The possibilities are vast, and the power to influence through persuasive speech is invaluable for anyone seeking to make a difference.
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- July 15, 2024
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Persuasive speeches on questions of policy.
- Questions of Policy
- Problem-Solution
- Problem-Solution with Cause
- Comparative Advantages of Solutions
- Monroe's Motivated Sequence
1. Questions of Policy
One focus of persuasive speaking is questions of policy , which advocates a change from the status quo , or the way things are today. There is a "should," or at least an implied "should," in the thesis statement. The speaker wants the plan proposed by the speech to become policy.
Questions of policy contrast with questions of fact, which state than something is, exists or does not exist, and questions of value, which state that something is good, bad, beautiful, or perhaps worthwhile.
The following sections describe some different ways to organize persuasive speeches around questions of policy.
terms to know Policy A principle of behavior, conduct, etc., thought to be desirable or necessary, especially as formally expressed by a government or other authoritative body. Status Quo The state of things; the way things are, as opposed to the way they could be.
2. Problem-Solution
One way to organize a persuasive speech on a question of policy focuses on defining a problem and a solution by covering three basic points:
1. The need: Convince the audience that there is a problem that must be addressed or a need for change. It is essential to get the audience to believe that a problem exists so they will implement a plan for a solution.
2. The Plan: Convince the audience that it is not good enough to just sit around and complain. Tell them what actions they must take. Be sure to address any aspects of the solution that might make the audience less willing to act.
3. The Practicality: Show the audience that the plan can succeed. Address the implications, cite expert testimony, and reference the successful implementation of similar plans in other places.
3. Problem-Solution with Cause
Consideration of the causes. Discussing the causes of the problem directs attention to specific points that the solution must address.
The basic points of this organization are:
1. The problem: Describe the nature and extent of the problem. Specifically, describe that the problem exists and how important or big the problem is.
2. The causes: Consider the direct relationship between the problem and its causes. Think about the problem as an "effect," and consider the causes that produced the effect. Show a direct relationship between the problem and causes, not just a correlation where one thing occurred before, after, or at the same time as another.
3. The solution: Use the causes as criteria to evaluate the solutions. If the speech says that the problem was caused by x, y and z, then the solution or new policy needs to address x, y, and z in order to solve the problem.
4. Comparative Advantages of Solutions
When the audience is already aware of and accepts that there is a problem, the speech can focus primarily on comparing the advantages of one solution over another, as follows:
1. Summarize the problem briefly: Do not focus on convincing the audience to believe that there is a problem that needs to be solved.
2. Compare different solutions: Discuss different solutions, and find the one that solves the most aspects of the problem. Compare one solution with others to select and propose the best to the audience.
3. Final appeal: Ask the audience to accept and implement that solution as the policy.
5. Monroe's Motivated Sequence
Another powerful method of structuring a persuasive message is by using a motivated sequence.
The organizational plan developed by Alan Monroe focuses on developing a psychological need in the audience and then illustrating how to satisfy that need by supporting the plan or policy advocated in the speech, as follows:
1. Attention: Get the audience's attention using a detailed story, shocking example, dramatic statistic, or quotations.
2. Need: Show how the topic applies to the psychological need of the audience members. The premise is that action is motivated by audience needs. Go beyond establishing that there is a significant problem; show that the need will not go away by itself. Convince the audience members that they each have a personal need to take action.
3. Satisfaction: Solve the issue. Provide specific and viable solutions that the government or community can implement.
4. Visualization: Tell the audience what will happen if the solution is or is not implemented. Be visual and detailed. Paint a picture for the audience of what they will experience and what the world will look like when the need is satisfied through the speech's plan.
5. Action: Tell the audience members what specific action they can take to solve the problem and change existing policy.
The advantage of Monroe's motivated sequence is that it emphasizes what the audience can do. Too often, the audience feels like a situation is hopeless; Monroe's motivated sequence emphasizes the actions the audience can take.
term to know Monroe's Motivated Sequence A method of persuasion developed by Alan H. Monroe, based on establishing a psychological need for action in the audience and demonstrating how to satisfy the need by taking action.
summary In this lesson, you learned that there are four basic organizational patterns for speeches on questions of policy : problem-solution , problem-solution with cause , comparative advantage of solutions , and Monroe's motivated sequence . Problem-solution considers the need (or the problem to be solved), the plan (or the solution to the problem), and the practicality (how well the solution will work). Problem-solution with causes considers the nature and extent of the problem and the direct relationship between the problem and its causes, and uses the causes as criteria to evaluate potential solutions. Comparative advantages of solutions summarizes the problem briefly, compare different solutions to find the one that solves the most aspects of the problem, and ask the audience to accept and implement the most advantageous solution. Monroe's motivated sequence is attention, need, satisfaction, visualization, and action.
Source: Boundless. "Persuasive Speeches on Questions of Policy." Boundless Communications Boundless, 17 Mar. 2017. Retrieved 22 May. 2017 from https://www.boundless.com/communications/textbooks/boundless-communications-textbook/persuasive-speaking-14/types-of-persuasive-speeches-73/persuasive-speeches-on-questions-of-policy-289-4314/
A method of persuasion developed by Alan H. Monroe, based on establishing a psychological need for action in the audience and demonstrating how to satisfy the need by taking action.
A principle of behavior, conduct, etc., thought to be desirable or necessary, especially as formally expressed by a government or other authoritative body.
The state of things; the way things are, as opposed to the way they could be.
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Persuasive Speeches — Types, Topics, and Examples
What is a persuasive speech.
In a persuasive speech, the speaker aims to convince the audience to accept a particular perspective on a person, place, object, idea, etc. The speaker strives to cause the audience to accept the point of view presented in the speech.
The success of a persuasive speech often relies on the speaker’s use of ethos, pathos, and logos.
Ethos is the speaker’s credibility. Audiences are more likely to accept an argument if they find the speaker trustworthy. To establish credibility during a persuasive speech, speakers can do the following:
Use familiar language.
Select examples that connect to the specific audience.
Utilize credible and well-known sources.
Logically structure the speech in an audience-friendly way.
Use appropriate eye contact, volume, pacing, and inflection.
Pathos appeals to the audience’s emotions. Speakers who create an emotional bond with their audience are typically more convincing. Tapping into the audience’s emotions can be accomplished through the following:
Select evidence that can elicit an emotional response.
Use emotionally-charged words. (The city has a problem … vs. The city has a disease …)
Incorporate analogies and metaphors that connect to a specific emotion to draw a parallel between the reference and topic.
Utilize vivid imagery and sensory words, allowing the audience to visualize the information.
Employ an appropriate tone, inflection, and pace to reflect the emotion.
Logos appeals to the audience’s logic by offering supporting evidence. Speakers can improve their logical appeal in the following ways:
Use comprehensive evidence the audience can understand.
Confirm the evidence logically supports the argument’s claims and stems from credible sources.
Ensure that evidence is specific and avoid any vague or questionable information.
Types of persuasive speeches
The three main types of persuasive speeches are factual, value, and policy.
A factual persuasive speech focuses solely on factual information to prove the existence or absence of something through substantial proof. This is the only type of persuasive speech that exclusively uses objective information rather than subjective. As such, the argument does not rely on the speaker’s interpretation of the information. Essentially, a factual persuasive speech includes historical controversy, a question of current existence, or a prediction:
Historical controversy concerns whether an event happened or whether an object actually existed.
Questions of current existence involve the knowledge that something is currently happening.
Predictions incorporate the analysis of patterns to convince the audience that an event will happen again.
A value persuasive speech concerns the morality of a certain topic. Speakers incorporate facts within these speeches; however, the speaker’s interpretation of those facts creates the argument. These speeches are highly subjective, so the argument cannot be proven to be absolutely true or false.
A policy persuasive speech centers around the speaker’s support or rejection of a public policy, rule, or law. Much like a value speech, speakers provide evidence supporting their viewpoint; however, they provide subjective conclusions based on the facts they provide.
How to write a persuasive speech
Incorporate the following steps when writing a persuasive speech:
Step 1 – Identify the type of persuasive speech (factual, value, or policy) that will help accomplish the goal of the presentation.
Step 2 – Select a good persuasive speech topic to accomplish the goal and choose a position .
Step 3 – Locate credible and reliable sources and identify evidence in support of the topic/position. Revisit Step 2 if there is a lack of relevant resources.
Step 4 – Identify the audience and understand their baseline attitude about the topic.
Step 5 – When constructing an introduction , keep the following questions in mind:
What’s the topic of the speech?
What’s the occasion?
Who’s the audience?
What’s the purpose of the speech?
Step 6 – Utilize the evidence within the previously identified sources to construct the body of the speech. Keeping the audience in mind, determine which pieces of evidence can best help develop the argument. Discuss each point in detail, allowing the audience to understand how the facts support the perspective.
Step 7 – Addressing counterarguments can help speakers build their credibility, as it highlights their breadth of knowledge.
Step 8 – Conclude the speech with an overview of the central purpose and how the main ideas identified in the body support the overall argument.
Persuasive speech outline
One of the best ways to prepare a great persuasive speech is by using an outline. When structuring an outline, include an introduction, body, and conclusion:
Introduction
Attention Grabbers
Ask a question that allows the audience to respond in a non-verbal way; ask a rhetorical question that makes the audience think of the topic without requiring a response.
Incorporate a well-known quote that introduces the topic. Using the words of a celebrated individual gives credibility and authority to the information in the speech.
Offer a startling statement or information about the topic, typically done using data or statistics.
Provide a brief anecdote or story that relates to the topic.
Starting a speech with a humorous statement often makes the audience more comfortable with the speaker.
Provide information on how the selected topic may impact the audience .
Include any background information pertinent to the topic that the audience needs to know to understand the speech in its entirety.
Give the thesis statement in connection to the main topic and identify the main ideas that will help accomplish the central purpose.
Identify evidence
Summarize its meaning
Explain how it helps prove the support/main claim
Evidence 3 (Continue as needed)
Support 3 (Continue as needed)
Restate thesis
Review main supports
Concluding statement
Give the audience a call to action to do something specific.
Identify the overall importan ce of the topic and position.
Persuasive speech topics
The following table identifies some common or interesting persuasive speech topics for high school and college students:
Benefits of healthy foods | Animal testing | Affirmative action |
Cell phone use while driving | Arts in education | Credit cards |
Climate change | Capital punishment/death penalty | Fossil fuels |
Extinction of the dinosaurs | Community service | Fracking |
Extraterrestrial life | Fast food & obesity | Global warming |
Gun violence | Human cloning | Gun control |
Increase in poverty | Influence of social media | Mental health/health care |
Moon landing | Paying college athletes | Minimum wage |
Pandemics | Screen time for young children | Renewable energy |
Voting rights | Violent video games | School choice/private vs. public schools vs. homeschooling |
World hunger | Zoos & exotic animals | School uniforms |
Persuasive speech examples
The following list identifies some of history’s most famous persuasive speeches:
John F. Kennedy’s Inaugural Address: “Ask Not What Your Country Can Do for You”
Lyndon B. Johnson: “We Shall Overcome”
Marc Antony: “Friends, Romans, Countrymen…” in William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar
Ronald Reagan: “Tear Down this Wall”
Sojourner Truth: “Ain’t I a Woman?”
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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.
Interested in learning about other great extracurricular opportunities? Learn more about job shadowing , community service , and volunteer abroad programs.
Still trying to figure out your courses? Check out our expert guide on which classes you should take in high school.
These recommendations are based solely on our knowledge and experience. If you purchase an item through one of our links, PrepScholar may receive a commission.
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160 Persuasive Speech Topics for Students
Mark Bradford
A persuasive speech is designed to convince an audience to accept a specific viewpoint or take a particular action. It relies on strong arguments, clear reasoning, and emotional appeal to sway listeners. Whether you're aiming to change minds or inspire action, you should choose persuasive speech ideas that resonate with your audience and present a clear, convincing argument.
In this article, you'll find a wide range of interesting persuasive speech topics for high school students. Along with tips on how to select the best topic, you'll get insight into what makes a persuasive argument powerful. If you find yourself stuck or need more help even after reading this guide, EssayHub is here for you. Our expert online writing service can assist with any type of essay, speech, or research, making sure your message is strong and clear.
Best Persuasive Speech Topics
Persuasive speeches are essential for anyone looking to influence or inspire an audience. Doesn't matter if you're a student preparing for a class assignment, a professional making a business pitch, a good persuasive speech topic can make all the difference. So, here are the lists of ideas that will connect with your audience and move them to action.
- Should cultural heritage be preserved and protected even at the cost of economic development?
- Is cultural appropriation a form of flattery or a disrespectful exploitation of marginalized cultures?
- Can promoting multicultural education in schools improve social harmony and reduce prejudice?
- Should governments invest more in supporting indigenous languages and traditions to prevent their extinction?
- Does global tourism help or hinder the preservation of local cultural traditions and practices?
- Should media representation of diverse cultures be regulated to avoid stereotypes and misrepresentation?
- Is it ethical for corporations to use cultural symbols in advertising without contributing to the cultures they borrow from?
- Can celebrating cultural diversity in workplaces enhance innovation and employee satisfaction?
- Should cultural exchange programs be mandatory in higher education to foster global understanding and cooperation?
- Is the commercialization of cultural festivals and events detrimental to their original significance and values?
College and Career
- Should college education be free to ensure equal access for all students?
- Is it better to get a college degree or start working right after high school?
- Should universities focus more on practical skills and internships than traditional academic learning?
- Can vocational training provide better career prospects than a four-year college degree?
- Should employers prioritize skills and experience over degrees for job positions?
- Is it worth investing in a graduate degree if it doesn't lead to a significant salary boost?
- Should colleges do more to prepare students for the realities of the job market?
- Can online education be as effective as traditional classroom learning for career preparation?
- Is it important for high schools to offer career counseling to guide students' future choices?
- Should there be a national standard for career readiness programs to ensure all students are workforce-ready?
Economy and Work
- Should the minimum wage be raised to support low-income workers better?
- Is universal basic income a viable solution for income inequality and job displacement?
- Should governments impose stricter regulations on gig economy companies to protect workers' rights?
- Can investing in green jobs boost the economy and benefit the environment?
- Is tax system reform needed to ensure wealthy individuals and corporations pay their fair share?
- Should there be mandatory paid family leave to support working parents and improve work-life balance?
- Can remote work and telecommuting enhance employee productivity and job satisfaction?
- Should governments offer incentives for businesses to hire and train workers in emerging industries?
- Should schools focus more on career-specific skills to prepare students for future job markets?
- Is the current social safety net adequate during economic downturns, or does it need major reform?
Request - ' write my speech ', if you're ready to start working on your persuasive speech.
- Should standardized testing be replaced with more personalized assessments?
- Is it important for schools to include financial literacy in the core curriculum?
- Should public schools get more funding to ensure equal access to quality education?
- Can year-round schooling improve student performance compared to traditional summer breaks?
- Is integrating technology into education better than sticking with traditional teaching methods?
- Should higher education institutions be accountable for their graduates' job placement rates?
- Can a four-day school week increase student engagement and academic performance?
- Should schools emphasize mental health and emotional well-being in education?
- Is reforming college admissions necessary to reduce pressure and ensure fairness?
- Should vocational and technical education be as prestigious as academic pathways to address the skills gap?
Environment and Conservation
- Should governments enforce stricter regulations to reduce single-use plastics and promote sustainability?
- Is investing in renewable energy more effective for combating climate change than developing fossil fuels?
- Should global agreements be established to protect and restore endangered ecosystems?
- Can urban green spaces and community gardens improve city air quality and residents' well-being?
- Is it important for businesses to adopt environmental sustainability practices?
- Should schools include more environmental education to promote conservation among students?
- Can consumer behavior be shifted through incentives and education to support eco-friendly choices?
- Should governments increase support for local conservation projects and grassroots initiatives?
- Is it necessary to reform agricultural practices to protect soil and water resources and address climate change?
- Can technological advancements more effectively monitor and mitigate environmental damage than traditional methods?
- Should religious institutions be more transparent about their financial operations to build trust?
- Is it beneficial to include religious education in public schools to promote understanding and tolerance?
- Should governments enforce stricter regulations on religious practices that might harm individuals' rights and safety?
- Can interfaith dialogue help resolve global conflicts and social issues more effectively?
- Is it important for religious leaders to publicly condemn extremist interpretations of their faith?
- Should religious organizations follow the same anti-discrimination laws as other institutions?
- Can modern technology enhance spiritual practices and community engagement in religious groups?
- Is it ethical for religious groups to influence political decisions, or should there be a strict separation between religion and government?
- Should religious texts be reinterpreted to align with contemporary social and ethical standards?
- Can promoting religious pluralism reduce societal tensions and foster cultural cohesion?
Environmental Issues
- Should there be a global ban on harmful pesticides to protect biodiversity and human health?
- Is it necessary to enforce stricter regulations on industrial waste to prevent environmental contamination and health hazards?
- Can adopting a plant-based diet at a large scale significantly reduce the environmental impact of agriculture?
- Should governments incentivize homeowners to install solar panels and other energy-efficient technologies to reduce carbon footprints?
- Is it crucial to implement mandatory recycling programs to reduce waste and conserve natural resources effectively?
- Can investing in sustainable urban planning help mitigate the effects of climate change and improve the quality of life in cities?
- Should there be international agreements to manage and reduce the ecological impact of deep-sea mining activities?
- Is it important for companies to adopt circular economy practices to minimize waste and make the most of their resources?
- Should schools and community organizations promote more active participation in local environmental conservation efforts?
- Can the expansion of protected marine areas help restore ocean health and support global fish populations?
Health and Wellness
- Should healthcare systems prioritize preventive care over treatment to improve long-term public health outcomes?
- Is it important for governments to implement stricter regulations on food advertising to children to combat rising obesity rates?
- Can mental health education and resources be as crucial as physical health services in improving overall wellness?
- Should there be mandatory nutrition labeling on all food products to help consumers make healthier choices?
- Is it necessary to increase funding and support for research into alternative medicine and holistic health practices?
- Can regular physical activity and exercise be integrated into daily routines at work to enhance employee well-being and productivity?
- Should schools implement more comprehensive health education programs to address issues such as substance abuse and sexual health?
- Is it beneficial for governments to offer subsidized gym memberships and wellness programs to promote healthier lifestyles?
- Should there be stricter regulations on the sale and use of e-cigarettes and vaping products to protect public health?
- Can increasing public awareness campaigns about the importance of sleep contribute to better health and reduced healthcare costs?
Current Affairs and Politics
- Should governments enforce stricter regulations on political campaign financing to reduce corruption?
- Is it necessary to reform electoral systems to improve representation and reduce gridlock?
- Can increasing voter turnout through easier access and education lead to fairer political decisions?
- Should there be a global standard for human rights to address abuses and promote justice?
- Is it beneficial for countries to combat disinformation and fake news more rigorously?
- Should governments prioritize investing in climate change over other issues?
- Can enhanced diplomacy and international cooperation resolve global conflicts more effectively?
- Is it important for political leaders to include mental health support in their policies?
- Should there be greater oversight of government spending to ensure funds are used effectively?
- Can more inclusive government policies improve public trust and address systemic inequalities?
If you're interested in informative speech topics , visit our special blog.
Science and Technology
- Should governments fund more research into renewable energy to speed up development?
- Is it ethical to use CRISPR to enhance human traits beyond treating genetic disorders?
- Can investing in AI and automation boost productivity and economic growth across industries?
- Should there be stricter regulations on data privacy to protect individuals from surveillance and breaches?
- Is it important for schools to include coding and digital literacy in their core curricula?
- Can blockchain technology improve transparency and security in financial transactions?
- Should there be international agreements to regulate autonomous weapons and military drones?
- Is it necessary to increase public funding for space exploration to advance scientific knowledge?
- Can smart city technologies enhance urban living conditions and reduce environmental impacts?
- Should companies be accountable for the ethical implications of their technologies, especially AI and machine learning?
Social Media
- Should social media platforms do more to prevent the spread of misinformation?
- Is government regulation necessary to protect user privacy on social media?
- Can social media be a better tool for positive social change?
- Should social media use be restricted for younger users to protect them from harmful content?
- Is it important for social media companies to be transparent about their algorithms?
- Can limiting social media use improve mental health, especially among teens?
- Should employers use social media profiles in hiring decisions?
- Is social media literacy an essential part of education for responsible online use?
- Can social media platforms do more to prevent cyberbullying?
- Should there be more resources for managing social media presence and reputation?
- Should youth sports focus more on skill development than competition?
- Are stricter concussion protocols needed in contact sports to protect athletes?
- Can increased investment in women's sports promote gender equality?
- Should sports organizations enforce stricter anti-doping measures?
- Is it important for schools to offer diverse sports options for all students?
- Can professional sports leagues better support community and social causes?
- Should athletes be required to take mental health breaks during their careers?
- Is it beneficial to limit commercial ads during sports broadcasts to focus on the game?
- Should sports franchises adopt more sustainable practices?
- Can e-sports be recognized and supported like traditional sports?
Social Issues
- Should there be stricter regulations to reduce income inequality and support low-income families?
- Is it important to provide more mental health resources and support for underserved communities?
- Can universal basic income effectively address poverty and economic instability?
- Should there be more comprehensive policies to support gender equality and women's rights?
- Is it necessary to reform the criminal justice system to address racial and socioeconomic disparities?
- Can increasing access to quality education help reduce social inequality and improve opportunities?
- Should governments implement more robust measures to combat climate change and protect vulnerable populations?
- Is it beneficial to offer more support and resources for addiction recovery and prevention programs?
- Should there be greater efforts to promote and protect LGBTQ+ rights and equality?
- Can enhancing affordable housing initiatives reduce homelessness and improve community well-being?
Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics
- Should there be a universal minimum wage to reduce income inequality?
- Is mandatory community service in high schools beneficial for civic responsibility?
- Can a four-day workweek improve productivity and work-life balance?
- Should fast fashion face stricter regulations to reduce environmental impact?
- Is teaching financial literacy in schools essential for managing personal finances?
- Can more public parks in cities enhance community well-being?
- Should governments incentivize businesses to adopt green technologies?
- Is free or subsidized childcare necessary to support working parents?
- Can improved public transportation reduce traffic congestion and increase access?
- Should there be more support for creative arts programs to foster innovation?
Fun Topics for Persuasive Speech
- Should pets be allowed in all workplaces to boost employee morale and productivity?
- Can a daily nap improve overall health and work performance?
- Should schools have more flexible dress codes to allow for self-expression and comfort?
- Is it better to work from home in pajamas rather than traditional office attire?
- Should there be more public holidays dedicated to unique and fun celebrations, like "National Pizza Day"?
- Can introducing more game-based learning in schools make education more engaging and effective?
- Should everyone be encouraged to learn a new hobby or skill every year to promote personal growth and happiness?
- Is it beneficial to have more quirky and themed parties at work to enhance team bonding and creativity?
- Should cities invest in more public art installations and interactive exhibits to make urban areas more enjoyable?
- Can allowing pets in public places, like cafes or shops, improve social interactions and community spirit?
Easy Persuasive Speech Topics
- Should schools start the day later to improve student focus and performance?
- Is it important to eat breakfast every day for better health and energy?
- Can having a pet improve mental health and reduce stress?
- Should everyone carry a reusable water bottle to help reduce plastic waste?
- Is it beneficial to read books for at least 30 minutes a day to enhance knowledge and relaxation?
- Should students be given more time for recess to improve their social and physical well-being?
- Can walking or biking to school help students stay fit and reduce traffic congestion?
- Is it important to get at least 8 hours of sleep each night for overall health and productivity?
- Should there be more opportunities for students to choose their own elective courses to enhance engagement?
- Can volunteering in the community be a rewarding way to develop skills and make a positive impact?
Elements of a Great Persuasive Speech Topic
When choosing an ideal persuasive speech topic, certain key elements can help make your speech stand out:
- Timeliness : Pick a fruitful, persuasive speech topic that's relevant right now. If it's something people are already thinking about, you're more likely to grab their attention. A timely topic also helps you connect with current events or trends.
- Emotional appeal : The best persuasive speeches tap into emotions. Choose a topic that can stir feelings—whether it's concern, excitement, or even outrage. This emotional connection can make your message more powerful.
- Feasibility : Make sure the action or change you're advocating for is realistic. It's hard to persuade people to support something that feels impossible. Ground your topic in something achievable, and your audience will be more inclined to take it seriously.
- Audience interest : Know your crowd. A topic that's perfect for one group may fall flat with another. Think about what matters to your specific audience and tailor your speech accordingly.
See a related article on how to write a speech .
How to Choose a Great Persuasive Speech Topic
Now that you know the key elements of an effective persuasive speech topic, let's talk about how to actually choose one. While relevance and emotional appeal are important, there are a few more things to consider that can take your topic to the next level:
- Know your own limits : Pick a topic you're comfortable speaking about. If you're not familiar with the subject, it'll show. Choose something within your range of knowledge or something you're excited to research.
- Consider potential counterarguments : A strong persuasive speech acknowledges the other side. When picking your topic, think about what arguments could be made against your position. This will help you choose a subject with more depth, where you can address opposing views and strengthen your own stance.
- Think about your audience's values : Great persuasive speech topics hit home with your listeners' values or beliefs. Consider what they care about most. If you can align your topic with their core concerns, you'll have an easier time winning them over.
These tips will help you choose a topic that not only makes sense to you but also speaks to your audience in a way that's hard to ignore. Afterward, don't forget to check out our guide on persuasive essay format .
In Wrapping Up
To wrap things up, choosing the right persuasive speech ideas is all about finding that balance between what you care about and what will capture your audience's attention. By focusing on relevance, emotional appeal, and a topic that invites debate, you'll be set to deliver a speech that leaves an impact.
Here are some popular topics to spark your creativity:
- Should schools switch to year-round schedules?
- The pros and cons of universal basic income
- The ethics of animal testing in cosmetics
- How far should free speech go in social media?
- Should college education be free for everyone?
If you're still feeling stuck or need a little extra help getting your speech just right, EssayHub has your back. With expert support for any type of essay, research, or speech, we'll help you refine your ideas and make sure you're ready to impress your audience.
How to Pick a Persuasive Speech Topic?
What are good persuasive speech topics, what is a persuasive speech topic.
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- Writing Tips
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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107 Persuasive Speech Topics: A Comprehensive Guide
Crafting a persuasive speech can be a daunting task, but choosing the right topic is the first step to engaging your audience and making an impact. Whether you’re a student, educator, or professional, persuasion is a valuable skill that can lead to success in various aspects of life. In this guide, we’ll explore 107 persuasive speech topics across 10 different categories, providing you with a wealth of options for your next speech.
Key Takeaways
- Choosing the right topic is crucial for a persuasive speech’s success.
- Understanding your audience will help tailor your message effectively.
- Research and preparation are key to delivering a compelling argument.
Table of Contents
- Environment
- Social Issues
Education Persuasive Speech Topics
The realm of education offers a rich field for persuasive speech topics, from the debate over traditional versus progressive education methods to the value of online learning.
The necessity of financial education in high schools, for instance, underscores the importance of equipping young individuals with the financial literacy required to navigate the complexities of modern economies. Advocates argue that integrating financial education into the high school curriculum can significantly reduce personal debt and increase financial stability among young adults.
On the other hand, the debate over whether college education should be free reflects broader societal values concerning access to education, equality of opportunity, and the role of government in supporting its citizens. Proponents of free college education highlight the potential to alleviate the burden of student loans and create a more educated workforce, while opponents raise concerns about the quality of education, the financial feasibility of such programs, and the fairness to those who have already paid for their education.
Speech Topics:
- The necessity of financial education in high schools
- Should college education be free for everyone?
- The impact of technology on modern education
- The benefits of bilingual education
- Homework: An unnecessary evil?
- Standardized testing: More harm than good?
- The role of arts in education
- Should schools implement a dress code?
- The importance of sex education in schools
- Charter schools vs. public schools: Which is better?
Environment Persuasive Speech Topics
With climate change and environmental degradation at the forefront of global concerns, persuasive speeches on environmental topics can be particularly impactful.
The urgency of acting on climate change is not just a matter of environmental stewardship but also survival, as rising global temperatures threaten ecosystems, human health, and economies worldwide. Persuasive arguments in this realm emphasize the scientific consensus on climate change, the observable impacts already underway, and the moral imperative to act for future generations.
Similarly, the debate over banning single-use plastics tackles the broader issue of waste and pollution, highlighting the detrimental effects of plastic on marine life, water quality, and global health. Advocates for banning single-use plastics call for a shift towards more sustainable consumption patterns and the adoption of alternatives that can reduce the environmental footprint of human activity.
- The urgency of acting on climate change
- Should single-use plastics be banned?
- The benefits of organic farming
- Renewable energy: The path to a sustainable future
- The importance of conserving water
- Urban gardening: A solution to food deserts
- The impact of fast fashion on the environment
- Wildlife conservation: Why it matters
- The role of individuals in reducing carbon footprints
- Ocean pollution: A call to action
Politics Persuasive Speech Topics
Politics always provides a fertile ground for persuasion, whether it’s discussing policy changes or advocating for social justice.
The importance of voting in a democracy is a critical topic, where the argument often centers on the idea that voting is not just a right but a civic duty. Persuasive speeches in this area aim to mobilize apathy, combat voter suppression, and underscore the power of each vote in shaping policies and electing leaders who reflect the public’s will.
Meanwhile, the discussion on whether there should be term limits for politicians delves into the balance between experience and fresh perspectives in governance. Advocates for term limits argue that they prevent the entrenchment of power and encourage political renewal, while opponents suggest that such limits could undermine the expertise and continuity necessary for effective leadership.
- The importance of voting in a democracy
- Should there be term limits for politicians?
- The impact of social media on political campaigns
- Gun control laws: The need for reform
- The death penalty: A moral dilemma
- Immigration policies: Finding a humane approach
- The role of government in healthcare
- Campaign finance reform: Necessary for democracy?
- The effects of gerrymandering on electoral fairness
- Privacy vs. security: Finding the balance
As technology continues to evolve, it presents new challenges and opportunities for persuasive speeches.
The dangers of artificial intelligence (AI), for example, encompass ethical, privacy, and employment concerns, with proponents warning about the unchecked development of AI systems that could surpass human intelligence and autonomy. This debate calls for responsible development and regulation of AI to harness its benefits while safeguarding against potential threats to humanity.
On the flip side, the role of technology in education explores how digital tools can enhance learning, offering personalized, accessible, and engaging educational experiences. However, this optimism is tempered by concerns over digital divides, data privacy, and the need for a balanced approach that integrates technology without undermining the essential human elements of teaching and learning.
- The dangers of artificial intelligence
- Social media: Connecting or isolating?
- The future of work: Automation and employment
- The ethical implications of genetic engineering
- Cybersecurity: A growing concern
- The digital divide: Bridging the gap
- Online privacy: An oxymoron?
- The role of technology in education
- E-waste: A looming environmental threat
- Virtual reality: The future of entertainment
Health persuasive speech topics are always of interest to audiences, offering a chance to persuade on issues from public health policies to personal wellness.
The importance of mental health awareness is a poignant example, highlighting the societal stigma and lack of resources that often accompany mental health issues. Persuasive arguments advocate for increased funding, education, and support systems to treat mental health with the same urgency and compassion as physical health.
Vaccinations present another critical area, where the debate centers on myths versus facts, addressing vaccine hesitancy fueled by misinformation and emphasizing the role of vaccinations in public health and the eradication of diseases. Persuasive speeches aim to build trust in science, advocate for community health, and counteract the spread of false information that threatens public health initiatives.
- The importance of mental health awareness
- Vaccinations: Myths vs. Facts
- The obesity epidemic: A public health crisis
- The benefits of a plant-based diet
- The impact of stress on health
- Universal healthcare: A right or a privilege?
- The dangers of tobacco use
- The role of exercise in health
- Addressing the opioid crisis
- Sleep: The cornerstone of health
Social Issues – Persuasive Speech Topics
Social issues provide a platform to challenge societal norms and advocate for change.
The fight for gender equality is a prime example, of addressing disparities in the workplace, education, and politics. Persuasive speeches on this topic often highlight the ongoing struggle for equal pay, reproductive rights, and the eradication of gender-based violence, aiming to mobilize support for policies that promote gender parity.
Similarly, the topic of racial discrimination confronts the systemic inequalities that pervade many aspects of society, from the criminal justice system to employment and housing. Persuasive arguments in this area seek to illuminate the historical and contemporary impacts of racism, advocating for reforms that ensure equal treatment and opportunities for all, regardless of race.
- The fight for gender equality
- Racial discrimination: A persistent problem
- The importance of LGBTQ+ rights
- Poverty: A global challenge
- The impact of social media on body image
- The refugee crisis: A call for compassion
- Child labor: A modern tragedy
- The digital divide: Social inequality in the digital age
- Animal rights: A moral obligation
- The importance of cultural diversity
Economics – Persuasive Speech Topics
Economic topics can persuade audiences on issues ranging from global trade to personal finance.
The debate over the pros and cons of globalization illustrates the complexities of an interconnected world economy, where arguments revolve around the benefits of open markets and trade against the backdrop of job displacement, environmental concerns, and the erosion of local cultures. Advocates for and against globalization present persuasive arguments that weigh economic efficiency and growth against the need for sustainable development and equitable wealth distribution.
Another compelling topic is the impact of the minimum wage on the economy, where speakers might argue for increasing the minimum wage as a means to reduce poverty and stimulate economic activity, while opponents caution against potential job losses and increased costs for businesses.
- The pros and cons of globalization
- Cryptocurrency: The future of finance?
- The impact of minimum wage on the economy
- The gig economy: Freedom or exploitation?
- Consumerism: The effect on society
- The role of government in the economy
- Sustainable development: Balancing economy and environment
- The debt crisis: Solutions and challenges
- The importance of financial literacy
- Economic inequality: A growing concern
Ethics Persuasive Speech Topics
Ethical topics challenge audiences to consider their values and the impact of their choices.
The ethics of drone warfare is a contentious topic, raising questions about the morality of using unmanned aerial vehicles in conflict. Arguments might focus on the potential to reduce military casualties and target threats more precisely, against concerns over civilian casualties, the psychological impact on operators, and the broader implications for international law and warfare.
Similarly, the privacy in the digital age debate delves into the ethical considerations surrounding data collection, surveillance, and the right to privacy. Persuasive speeches on this topic might advocate for stronger data protection laws and ethical standards for technology companies, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding personal information in an increasingly digital world.
- Animal testing: Necessary evil or moral failure?
- The ethics of drone warfare
- Privacy in the digital age
- The moral implications of euthanasia
- The ethics of cloning
- Corporate social responsibility
- The ethical dilemmas of self-driving cars
- The morality of capital punishment
- Ethical consumerism: The power of choice
- The ethics of surveillance
Science persuasive speech topics can both inform and persuade, from debates on climate change to the potential of space exploration.
The reality of climate change is a critical area, where persuasive arguments are grounded in scientific evidence to counter skepticism and apathy. Speakers emphasize the urgent need for action to mitigate climate change impacts, advocating for renewable energy, conservation efforts, and sustainable practices.
Another engaging topic is the potential of stem cell research, which holds promise for treating a wide range of diseases. Persuasive speeches might explore the ethical considerations, scientific breakthroughs, and regulatory challenges associated with stem cell research, aiming to foster support for this innovative field while addressing ethical concerns.
- The reality of climate change
- The importance of scientific literacy
- Vaccines: Science vs. skepticism
- The potential of stem cell research
- Space exploration: Worth the cost?
- The future of genetic engineering
- The role of science in solving global challenges
- The ethics of human augmentation
- The impact of technology on scientific discovery
- The importance of biodiversity
Other Persuasive Speech Topics
This category includes a variety of topics that don’t neatly fit into the other categories but are equally compelling for persuasive speeches.
The power of positive thinking is one such topic, where speakers might discuss the psychological and physiological benefits of optimism, encouraging audiences to adopt a more positive outlook on life. Persuasive arguments could highlight research on how positive thinking can improve health, resilience, and overall well-being.
The importance of personal finance management is another vital topic, emphasizing the need for individuals to take control of their financial future. Persuasive speeches might offer strategies for budgeting, saving, and investing, arguing that financial literacy is essential for navigating the complexities of the modern economy and securing a stable financial future.
- The power of positive thinking
- The importance of personal finance management
- The benefits of travel on personal development
- The impact of music on society
- The importance of historical preservation
- The role of philosophy in modern society
- The benefits of meditation and mindfulness
- The importance of community service
- The impact of literature on society
- The significance of dreams in understanding the self
- The value of lifelong learning
- The ethical implications of space exploration
- The role of social media in shaping public opinion
- The impact of global tourism on local cultures and environments
- The importance of net neutrality for the future of the Internet
- The role of art in society and its impact on well-being
- The significance of voting in local elections and its impact on communities
For further reading on the art of persuasion and speech topics, consider exploring resources at IVY’D College Prep , where you can find insights and strategies for effective communication and presentation skills.
Persuasive speeches are not just about presenting facts; they’re about convincing your audience to adopt a new perspective or take action. Here are some additional insights and resources to enhance your persuasive speaking skills.
What is the Best Persuasive Speech Topic?
Determining the “best” persuasive speech topic is subjective and depends on several factors, including the speaker’s passion, audience interest, and the context of the speech. However, the most effective topics often share common characteristics: they are timely, relevant, and resonate personally with the audience. The best topics are those that:
- Spark Interest: Choose a topic that not only interests you but also has the potential to engage your audience. A topic that evokes curiosity or an emotional response can be particularly compelling.
- Are Debatable: A good persuasive speech topic should have clear arguments for and against. This allows for a dynamic discussion and the opportunity to persuade through evidence and reasoning.
- Have a Clear Purpose: Whether it’s to inform, convince, or motivate to action, the best topics are those with a clear goal. Knowing what you want to achieve with your speech can guide your preparation and delivery.
How to Research for a Persuasive Speech
Research is crucial for building a strong foundation for your persuasive speech. Here are steps to guide your research process:
- Start with Reliable Sources: Use academic databases, reputable news outlets, and official reports to gather information. This ensures that your arguments are based on facts and credible evidence.
- Understand All Sides: To persuade effectively, you must understand the counterarguments to your position. This will allow you to address and refute opposing views in your speech.
- Use Statistics and Data: Quantifiable evidence can make your argument more compelling. Ensure your data comes from authoritative sources and is up to date.
- Incorporate Expert Opinions: Quoting experts who support your position can add authority to your speech. Look for quotes from professionals, academics, or influential figures in the field.
Tips for Delivering a Persuasive Speech
The delivery of your persuasive speech can significantly impact its effectiveness. Here are some tips to help you deliver a powerful speech:
Practice Your Speech
Familiarity with your material will boost your confidence and help you deliver a more natural and engaging speech.
Engage with Your Audience
Make eye contact, use gestures, and vary your vocal tone to keep the audience engaged. Tailoring your message to the audience’s interests and concerns can also increase engagement.
Use Rhetorical Devices
Techniques such as repetition, rhetorical questions, and the rule of three can make your speech more memorable and persuasive.
Handle Nervousness
It’s normal to feel nervous. Techniques like deep breathing, positive visualization, and focusing on your message rather than yourself can help manage speech anxiety.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Persuasive Speeches
Avoiding common pitfalls can enhance the effectiveness of your persuasive speech. Some mistakes to avoid include:
Overloading with Facts
While evidence is crucial, too many facts can overwhelm your audience. Balance your speech with stories, anecdotes, and emotional appeals.
Ignoring the Audience
Failing to consider the audience’s values, beliefs, and knowledge level can make your speech less effective. Tailor your message to resonate with your listeners.
Lack of Structure
A clear and logical structure helps your audience follow your argument. Ensure your speech has a strong introduction, body, and conclusion.
Neglecting the Call to Action
A persuasive speech should motivate the audience to think, feel, or act differently. Be clear about what you want your audience to do after listening to your speech.
By choosing a compelling topic, conducting thorough research, and delivering your speech effectively, you can persuade your audience and make a lasting impact. Remember, the power of persuasion lies not only in the strength of your arguments but also in your ability to connect with and move your audience.
Enhancing Your Persuasive Speech
Understand your audience.
- Tailor your message to their values, beliefs, and experiences.
- Anticipate counterarguments and address them in your speech.
Use Emotional Appeals
- Connect with your audience on an emotional level to make your message more compelling.
- Share personal stories or anecdotes that illustrate your points.
Cite Credible Sources
- Support your arguments with data and evidence from reputable sources.
- This adds credibility to your speech and strengthens your position.
Practice Delivery
- Your delivery can be as important as your message.
- Practice your speech multiple times, focusing on tone, pace, and body language.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do i choose a persuasive speech topic.
- Select a topic you are passionate about, as your enthusiasm will be contagious.
- Consider the interests and composition of your audience.
- Choose a topic that is timely and relevant.
How can I overcome nervousness when speaking?
- Practice your speech multiple times in front of a mirror or with friends.
- Familiarize yourself with the venue and equipment before your speech.
- Remember that feeling nervous is normal; focus on your message rather than your fear.
How do I engage my audience during a persuasive speech?
- Start with a strong hook to grab their attention.
- Use rhetorical questions to provoke thought and encourage audience participation.
- Make eye contact and use gestures to connect with your audience.
Remember, the key to a successful persuasive speech lies not only in what you say but also in how you say it. Engaging with your audience, using evidence to support your arguments, and delivering your message with confidence are all critical components of effective persuasion.
By incorporating these strategies and leveraging the resources provided, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of persuasive speech. Whether you’re advocating for social change, presenting a new idea, or persuading your audience to adopt a new perspective, the power of persuasion is a key tool in your communication arsenal.
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125+ Persuasive Speech Topics To Amaze Your Audience
Reviewed by:
Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University
Reviewed: 5/31/24
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, but 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, being 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 among individuals and groups. There are many interesting arguments and stances on both topics, and many people have strong opinions about them.
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 the minimum wage be doubled?
- Should everyone adapt to the four-day workweek?
- 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 many sides and perspectives 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 they tend to involve 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 address the homelessness crisis, and who is responsible for it?
- 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 its high-calorie 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 is 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 traveling 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 toward 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 diverse and intriguing topics will not only capture your audience's attention but 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 that the speaker is genuinely passionate about and knowledgeable about.
Persuasive 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 set limits on how many children a family can have in overpopulated countries?” is emotionally charged and truly matters to people.
Components of a Great Persuasive Speech Topic
Let's take a look at the key components that make up a great persuasive speech topic.
Timeliness and Relevance
Consider what's on people's minds right now. Your topic should be something they care about, whether it's in the news or a long-standing issue. It needs to feel important and connected to their lives. Picking a timely and relevant topic grabs your audience's attention and makes them more interested in what you have to say.
When choosing a topic, aim for something that has layers to it. Controversial topics or ones with lots of different opinions are good because they make people think. By exploring all the different angles of your topic, you can make your speech more engaging and show that you understand it well.
In today's world, facts matter more than ever. It's not enough to simply state your opinion; you need to back it up with solid evidence. Rely on numbers, data, and information from reliable sources to support what you're saying. When you do this, people trust you more and are more likely to believe what you're saying.
Personal Connection
Passion is a powerful tool in persuasion - so choose a topic that you truly care about. Passion is evident in your speech and ultimately makes it more interesting. Your enthusiasm rubs off on the audience, and they're more likely to pay attention. Feeling connected to your topic makes your speech more powerful and convincing.
How to Create a Compelling Persuasive Speech
Let's delve into the process of creating a compelling persuasive speech.
Understanding Your Audience
Before diving into your speech, take the time to understand your audience. What motivates them? What are their goals and values? Tailoring your message to resonate with their interests and concerns will greatly enhance its impact.
Focus on Key Goals
Keep your speech focused by selecting just one to three key goals to address. Trying to cover too much ground can overwhelm your audience and dilute your message. Instead, hone in on the most important points you want to convey.
Address Objections Head-On
Anticipate objections that your audience might have and incorporate them into your speech. Acknowledging and addressing these concerns demonstrates empathy and builds credibility, making your argument more persuasive.
Start with a Compelling Story
Capture your audience's attention from the outset by starting with a compelling story. Make it relatable and relevant to your message to draw listeners in and set the tone for the rest of your speech.
Practice, Practice, Practice
The key to delivering a persuasive speech with confidence is practice. Rehearse your speech until you know it inside and out, focusing on the flow of your ideas rather than memorizing every word. This will allow you to speak naturally and authentically.
Maintain Eye Contact
Engage your audience by maintaining eye contact throughout your speech. This creates a connection and keeps listeners attentive and engaged. Don't just stare at one person; instead, scan the room and make brief eye contact with various individuals.
Reinforce Your Points with Repetition
Repetition is a powerful tool for reinforcing your message. After explaining each key point, circle back and reiterate it to drive it home. This helps ensure that your audience remembers and internalizes your main ideas.
Leave a lasting impression by ending your speech with a strong closing statement. Summarize your key points and reiterate your main message with conviction. This final flourish will leave your audience inspired and motivated.
Embrace Feedback
Be open to feedback from your audience, and graciously accept both praise and criticism. Use feedback as an opportunity to refine your message and improve your delivery. By embracing feedback, you can continuously hone your persuasive skills and become an even more effective communicator.
After reading through all the possible topics you can write a persuasive speech on, you may still have some questions before you get going. Let’s get into them.
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 Speech Persuasive Topic For School?
A good start to finding a good persuasive 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 speech topics. Three specific examples that have not been listed are:
- Is social media to blame for the rates of depression and anxiety among youth?
- Do young adult romance novels encourage harmful and toxic relationships with their target audience?
- Should children under 18 have total control over medical decisions made about their bodies?
These topics are examples of 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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Persuasive Speech Topics: The Best 150 Ideas
Plus, a step-by-step guide for writing and delivering your speech.
Persuasive speech topics can inspire an audience and influence change in your community, town, or city. Whether you are giving a presentation at a large conference or converting a college essay into a speech to be given at your high school's auditorium, delivering a persuasive speech is not an easy task. We are here to guide you through this difficult process and provide you with 150 persuasive speech topics that can help you prepare your own inspirational presentation.
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Article Contents 13 min read
The art of persuasion.
The art of oratory is one of the oldest and most compelling persuasion tactics in human history. The power of speech has been used for centuries by men and women to negotiate peace, start revolutions, and inspire generations. At the source of change, we often witness a great speaker or speech that affected people’s worldviews. King Solomon, Socrates, Cicero, Elizabeth I, Napoleon, Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King, were all powerful speakers who changed the course of human history.
Luckily, not every persuasive speech happens on such a grand scale. You do not have to become Napoleon to change the lives of people who hear what you have to say. You might have experienced this yourself – perhaps you have had a teacher who instilled in you a great passion for the study of physics during his lectures? Or you happened to attend a political, grassroots gathering where you heard a speech that changed your attitude towards homelessness or poverty. Or maybe your classmate's presentation revealed something about a novel you were reading in class that made you reflect on your own life and the people in it.
The power of a speech lies in your conviction and delivery of the topic you choose to discuss. A persuasive speech topic can be anything you are passionate about. Yes, it is true; whether you want to discuss the repercussions of the Cuban Revolution or analyze the power of K-pop in popular culture, it is up to you to enthrall the audience with your topic. The key to any successful speech is your confidence and enthusiasm. So, let’s start by examining what makes a speech persuasive.
To deliver a speech takes a lot of guts – not everybody is comfortable with public speaking. But to deliver a good speech takes conviction. Think of it like this: you must believe in the importance of your speech topic to discuss it. This must be something you care about and believe in; otherwise, your topic must be something that drives your curiosity, and you believe that it must be examined further.
Conviction stirs your desire to share this topic with others – you are convinced that other people will similarly find this topic fascinating! Whether it is the importance of recycling or bike lanes, the conviction is what will become the backbone of a successful and persuasive topic choice, as well as drive your desire to give a speech in the first place.
With conviction comes passion. These two elements of a successful speech are intimately intertwined. If you believe in the importance of something, you will be passionate about sharing it with the public.
If we look at some of the most famous speeches in human history, you will notice that conviction and passion are the driving force that makes these speeches legendary. Whether it's Cicero's defense of the Republic in the Roman Senate or Martin Luther King's speech in the defense of civil rights almost two millennia later, both these speakers believed in the importance of their convictions and were passionate about sharing their beliefs. In these cases, even despite the threats of death.
Unbiased Expertise
Conviction and passion should also drive your need to know everything there is to know about your topic. To give a persuasive speech, you must not only show confidence and excitement but demonstrate that you are an expert in the topic of your choice. Granted, if you are a high school student or an undergraduate who's been assigned to deliver a speech in less than 2 weeks, you are not going to become a world-renowned expert in your subject matter. However, as I pointed out, your speech topic should be something you are already passionate about, so you must have done some research and have some knowledge of your topic.
A persuasive speech should be based on facts. It should deliver arguments and counterarguments to show many sides of the issue you choose to discuss. For example, if you choose to discuss the importance of bike lanes, you can present several arguments in support of creating more bike lanes in your town or city, such as safety, decrease in traffic, environmental benefits, etc. However, make sure to include arguments that also show the other side of the issue, such as having to close down several major streets in your city to reconstruct the roads to fit in the new bike lanes and the side-effects of construction for businesses. Presenting both sides of the issue will show your comprehensive knowledge of the topic and demonstrate your professionalism.
Using the bike lanes topic as an example, I want to emphasize that showing unbiased research and knowledge of your topic can win the audience’s favor. You can, and should, still have your own opinion on the matter and defend your conviction in the speech but presenting the audience with both sides of the story is a tactic that will make them trust you.
Additionally, knowing both sides of the coin shows that you have come to your conviction after long and thorough research. You are not just presenting an uneducated opinion.
Taking care of the substance of your speech is the first step. While learning how to properly deliver your speech may seem less important, even the most well-researched and factually based speech will seem weak if the orator does not engage the public.
Though they certainly help your confidence, conviction and passion do not always result in strong delivery. This is understandable since public speaking is not everyone’s forte. While you may be animated and absorbing when you speak of your topic with friends, gripping an audience full of strangers is different.
There are three potential goals of any persuasive speech:
To familiarize your audience with a topic they have never considered before and inspire them to research it on their own. "}]" code="timeline1">
When you think about it, these objectives are pretty ambitious. Delivery plays a huge part in achieving these goals. It will be hard to move your audience to pursue any of these goals without clear articulation, professionalism, and charisma.
Strong delivery can be developed. Yes, there are those to whom oratory skills come more naturally, but this is rather an exception than the rule. Many successful orators were terrified of public speaking but worked hard to overcome their fears. A good example of this is King George VI of England. Before taking the throne in 1936, he was already an infamously bad speaker. The King trained to keep his speech impediment and nerves at bay once he was crowned and delivered one of the most inspiring speeches against Adolf Hitler and the Third Reich at the beginning of World War II.
Now that you know what makes a speech topic persuasive, let's go over a step-by-step formula that will help you choose the right topic for you.
- Brainstorm where your convictions lie and what you are passionate about. You must reflect on what interests, hobbies, news, events, individuals, and activities of yours could be developed into a persuasive, strong narrative.
- Narrow these down to 2 or 3 topics that are particularly important or riveting to you.
- Now comes the practical side of the brainstorming process: take a moment to think whether preparing a comprehensive and compelling speech on this topic is feasible in the amount of time you have available. Consider the following questions: Are the topics of your choice well researched by you? Do you know these topics well? If you are not well-versed in the topic of your choice, do you have enough time to do research to present a comprehensive and complete narrative? Do you have enough time to form a well-developed stance about this topic? A thesis? Will you be able to cover several sides of this topic in the amount of time you have available?
- If you have answered “No” to these questions regarding each of the topics you had in mind, you must go back to the drawing board.
- If you have come up with a topic that results in a positive response to all the questions mentioned in step 3, you might have found the winner.
- Start by developing a thesis, i.e., the main message of your speech. Without a thesis, you will not have a strong speech.
- Develop arguments that endorse your thesis and support them with facts. Remember, a strong speech must be based on facts, rather than opinions and unsubstantiated statements.
- Research counterarguments to your thesis. While you may not personally support these, you must present a well-rounded picture of the issue you are discussing.
- You can finish off your speech by responding to the counterarguments in a way that reinforces your thesis. Don't forget to re-emphasize your main message in the closing paragraphs of your speech.
Know your audience
It is always a good idea to know who your audience is. Whether you are giving a speech in your high school, or traveling to attend an undergraduate conference, reflect on who will be listening to your speech. Before you sit down to write it, consider whether you can give yourself the freedom to use technical language, jargon, or make inside jokes on the matter. In general, I would advise you to avoid overly technical or niche language. It is never a good tactic for making a persuasive speech – this might alienate a large part of your audience.
However, if you are delivering a speech to a like-minded audience, you may use "industry lingo". For example, if you are delivering a speech at a video game convention, it is likely that many, if not most, attendees will be familiar with the terms and vocabulary you use. You will be able to strengthen your speech by using language that unites you with your audience. In this case, you are encouraged to engage the public by making inside jokes, using niche terminology, and creating a relatable experience with your speech.
Knowing your audience will allow you to develop a language for your speech. It will also allow you to gauge how deep you can delve into the topic of your choice. For example, if you are a young physics aficionado who is giving a lecture on black holes to your sophomore classmates, you might want to consider the fact that many of them have never studied physics in depth. This may help you shape your speech into something accessible and interesting for others.
If you are unsure about who your audience might be, try researching it. It is always good practice to know whom you will be addressing. Not only will it help you prepare the speech, but it will also ease your anxiety about the day of your speech delivery.
Hook the audience
Your opening sentences can hook the audience and guarantee their attention. While it will be the substance of your speech that keeps them listening to you, the opening must be captivating for your speech to have a chance for success.
So, what do I mean by hooking the audience with your opening? For example, you can state a shocking statistic about your topic. It will be especially impactful if it is related to your audience’s experiences, geographical area, community, or hot-topic issue. Here’s an example for an opening sentence for a speech about the importance of bike lanes:
“Last year, the city of Toronto recorded 715 serious accidents involving cyclists, with over 5% of these accidents resulting in a fatality."
Now, if I was living in Toronto, I would be surprised to hear such information; especially, if I have never thought about this before. I am saddened by this statistic and would like to learn how we can help prevent these accidents.
Let’s examine another opening. This time, we will consider a speech topic involving a historical event. For example, if you are captivated by the mystery of Princess Anastasia of the Russian royal family, the House of Romanov, you might start your speech thusly:
“The question of whether the Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna Romanova survived the brutal execution of her entire family by the Bolsheviks is one of the greatest mysteries of the 20th century.”
This sentence performs several tasks:
The opening sentence is your chance to establish yourself as the expert! You will seem like the authority on this topic, especially if you can pronounce the Princess's name without mistakes. "}]" code="timeline2">
Coming up with a strong opening sentence is not easy, but very worthwhile for delivering a persuasive speech. If you are having trouble finding the right opening sentence, you do not need to wait to start writing your speech. If you are stuck, move on to the main body of your speech and return to creating a captivating opening later.
To be persuasive, your speech must have a thesis. A thesis is the main argument you are trying to convince your audience of, or simply put, the purpose of you giving the speech. Without a thesis, your speech will be aimless, chaotic, and most likely, unengaging.
And while you can write your introduction after the main body of your speech is ready, you cannot write your speech without a thesis. It will be the landmark, the leading light, of your speech. Everything you say and every fact and argument you include in your essay must support your thesis. Certainly, you will be able to bring up alternative points of view later in the speech, but as we already discussed, your objective is to persuade the audience that your thesis is the correct one.
Let’s return to our bike lanes example. If you are a proponent of bike lanes, your thesis should be more than “Bike lanes are good”. While this can be considered a thesis, it is pretty thin. Instead, find a way to make your thesis compelling, include a supporting statistic, or a benefit of having bike lanes. For example:
“Having more bike lanes in our city will not only reduce traffic by X% but also allow our city to be at the forefront of the environmentally friendly initiatives happening all over our country.”
This thesis is clear and introduces the audience to some of the main points of the speech. The listeners get a concise prelude to what the speech is about and what it stands for.
Research and Arguments
Research is always conducted before you sit down to write. While you may have some general knowledge about your topic, remember that you are trying to be as persuasive as you possibly can be. This means that you need the latest statistics, the most up-to-date information, and the strongest support from experts in the field.
Tip: keep in mind your thesis as you are writing. All your arguments and facts must be in support of the main purpose of your essay. While you should present alternative points of view in your speech to make it well-rounded and unbiased, a strong speech must contain arguments that make it clear that your thesis is the correct one.
Concluding your speech has a twofold purpose. In addition to persuading the audience of your thesis, you must complete your narrative. Give the audience some closure about the topic. On the other hand, you must leave them even more interested in learning about your research. In other words, they must be compelled to explore on their own.
Tip: your conclusion cannot be a dry summary of your thesis and arguments. While you must restate your thesis in the conclusion, you are strongly encouraged to incite an emotional response from your audience. For example:
“More bike lanes will alleviate the heavy traffic and relieve our city from car fumes and soot. It is our responsibility to start making our city more eco-friendly. These small steps will inspire even more initiatives across our hometown and lead to a brighter, greener, future."
In this example, the audience is not only reminded of the main purpose of the speech but is also encouraged to think of other green initiatives that can help their town. The author does a good job of invoking responsibility for the future to encourage their audience to act.
Want to learn how to choose persuasive speech topics? Check out our infographic:
Now, let’s go over 150 persuasive speech topics that can inspire your own essay and presentation! Note that these are questions that should help you form ideas, arguments, and most importantly, theses. Rather than giving you the thesis upfront, we are encouraging you to come up with your own opinion and answers to these questions.
Your speech should be between 15 to 20 minutes long. Anything longer may lose your audience's attention. If applicable, don't forget to factor in some time after your presentation for questions from the audience.
The best way to approach the choice of topic is to reflect on your convictions and passions. If you are truly interested in a topic, your excitement will be felt by the audience.
Of course, you must be interested in your topic, first and foremost. Secondly, your speech must demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that will allow the audience to believe that you know what you are talking about. Thirdly, your delivery will have a great effect on whether you succeed in persuading the audience. Even a well-researched speech will suffer from poor delivery.
Firstly, only practice can really help you improve. Once you have written your speech, read it over several times. Do not memorize it, but rather, remember the structure, the flow of your arguments, your main points. Then start practicing pronouncing your entire speech in front of the mirror. Do this until you are quite confident with the content of the essay. Then, you can start practicing with family members, your friends, and classmates. Ask for their feedback: can they hear you well? Are you being articulate? Does your speech have a logical flow? Did they understand your thesis? Their feedback can help you modify not only your content, but also your presentation.
Your speech should take the form of an academic essay: introduction, main body, and conclusion.
Your speech must have a thesis, otherwise it will be meandering and pointless. A thesis will guide you and keep your essay/presentation well-structured. A thesis is what you will be arguing for (or against, if it's a negatively stated thesis) throughout your speech. And while you can include some alternative points of view in your speech, your thesis will inform every argument you make in the speech.
Typically, you should avoid using overly technical language. Even if you are presenting at a professional conference in front of peers, there is a chance that some of your audience will be unfamiliar with the professional terminology. To be inclusive, you should avoid niche language.
To be frank, there is no such thing. You can make a great speech on any topic of your choosing! Your research, your delivery, and your passion will determine whether your speech is successful.
Acknowledging opposing views and presence of debate will demonstrate your thorough knowledge of the topic. Additionally, you will demonstrate that you came to your conclusion/thesis after researching the topic, rather than simply forming an uneducated opinion.
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100 Persuasive Speech Topics for Students
- Homework Tips
- Learning Styles & Skills
- Study Methods
- Time Management
- Private School
- College Admissions
- College Life
- Graduate School
- Business School
- Distance Learning
- M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
- B.A., History, Armstrong State University
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 it to generate an idea of your own. It could even be an idea that opposes the proposed example. For instance, instead of arguing American workers should be guaranteed a three-day weekend by law, you could argue why this shouldn't be the case.
How to Pick a Good Persuasive Speech Topic
Persuasive speeches are generally meant to convince an audience to agree with an idea you present. The topics can range from political to scientific or societal, and professional to personal—or even fun. They can be almost anything.
Just remember, a persuasive speech is different than a persuasive essay because you are presenting to an audience. So as you decide on a topic, think about your audience and decide on a subject matter that will be appropriate, compelling, and engaging to discuss. Perhaps it's a timely issue attracting a lot of news coverage, or maybe you want to be motivational and encourage a healthy activity. Whatever it is, structure your argument with a hook to capture attention , a clear definition of the topic or issue, and finally, your proposed solution or opinion.
100 Examples of Persuasive Speech Topics
- 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.
- The 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 language classes.
- Every student should be required to learn at least one foreign language .
- Marijuana should be legal for recreational use nationwide.
- Commercial testing of products on animals should no longer be allowed.
- High school students should be required to participate in at least one team sport.
- The minimum 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.
- Controversial Speech Topics
- 5 Tips on How to Write a Speech Essay
- List of Supplies for High School Students
- Understanding Very Big Numbers
- 50 Topics for Impromptu Student Speeches
- How to Write and Structure a Persuasive Speech
- 18 Ways to Practice Spelling Words
- How to Write a Graduation Speech as Valedictorian
- Mock Election Ideas For Students
- How to Give an Impromptu Speech
- How to Run for Student Council
- National Competitions in Science and Math
- Benefits of Participating in High School Debate
- Basic Tips for Memorizing Speeches, Skits, and Plays
- How to Stop Overthinking Tests and Projects
- What Is a Blue Book?
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75 Persuasive Speech Topics and Ideas
October 4, 2018 - Gini Beqiri
To write a captivating and persuasive speech you must first decide on a topic that will engage, inform and also persuade the audience. We have discussed how to choose a topic and we have provided a list of speech ideas covering a wide range of categories.
What is persuasive speech?
The aim of a persuasive speech is to inform, educate and convince or motivate an audience to do something. You are essentially trying to sway the audience to adopt your own viewpoint.
The best persuasive speech topics are thought-provoking, daring and have a clear opinion. You should speak about something you are knowledgeable about and can argue your opinion for, as well as objectively discuss counter-arguments.
How to choose a topic for your speech
It’s not easy picking a topic for your speech as there are many options so consider the following factors when deciding.
Familiarity
Topics that you’re familiar with will make it easier to prepare for the speech.
It’s best if you decide on a topic in which you have a genuine interest in because you’ll be doing lots of research on it and if it’s something you enjoy the process will be significantly easier and more enjoyable. The audience will also see this enthusiasm when you’re presenting which will make the speech more persuasive.
The audience’s interest
The audience must care about the topic. You don’t want to lose their attention so choose something you think they’ll be interested in hearing about.
Consider choosing a topic that allows you to be more descriptive because this allows the audience to visualize which consequently helps persuade them.
Not overdone
When people have heard about a topic repeatedly they’re less likely to listen to you as it doesn’t interest them anymore. Avoid cliché or overdone topics as it’s difficult to maintain your audience’s attention because they feel like they’ve heard it all before.
An exception to this would be if you had new viewpoints or new facts to share. If this is the case then ensure you clarify early in your speech that you have unique views or information on the topic.
Emotional topics
Emotions are motivators so the audience is more likely to be persuaded and act on your requests if you present an emotional topic.
People like hearing about issues that affect them or their community, country etc. They find these topics more relatable which means they find them more interesting. Look at local issues and news to discover these topics.
Desired outcome
What do you want your audience to do as a result of your speech? Use this as a guide to choosing your topic, for example, maybe you want people to recycle more so you present a speech on the effect of microplastics in the ocean.
Persuasive speech topics
Lots of timely persuasive topics can be found using social media, the radio, TV and newspapers. We have compiled a list of 75 persuasive speech topic ideas covering a wide range of categories.
Some of the topics also fall into other categories and we have posed the topics as questions so they can be easily adapted into statements to suit your own viewpoint.
- Should pets be adopted rather than bought from a breeder?
- Should wild animals be tamed?
- Should people be allowed to own exotic animals like monkeys?
- Should all zoos and aquariums be closed?
Arts/Culture
- Should art and music therapy be covered by health insurance?
- Should graffiti be considered art?
- Should all students be required to learn an instrument in school?
- Should automobile drivers be required to take a test every three years?
- Are sports cars dangerous?
- Should bicycles share the roads with cars?
- Should bicycle riders be required by law to always wear helmets?
Business and economy
- Do introverts make great leaders?
- Does owning a business leave you feeling isolated?
- What is to blame for the rise in energy prices?
- Does hiring cheaper foreign employees hurt the economy?
- Should interns be paid for their work?
- Should employees receive bonuses for walking or biking to work?
- Should tipping in restaurants be mandatory?
- Should boys and girls should be taught in separate classrooms?
- Should schools include meditation breaks during the day?
- Should students be allowed to have their mobile phones with them during school?
- Should teachers have to pass a test every decade to renew their certifications?
- Should online teaching be given equal importance as the regular form of teaching?
- Is higher education over-rated?
- What are the best ways to stop bullying?
- Should people with more than one DUI lose their drivers’ licenses?
- Should prostitution be legalised?
- Should guns be illegal in the US?
- Should cannabis be legalised for medical reasons?
- Is equality a myth?
- Does what is “right” and “wrong” change from generation to generation?
- Is there never a good enough reason to declare war?
- Should governments tax sugary drinks and use the revenue for public health?
- Has cosmetic surgery risen to a level that exceeds good sense?
- Is the fast-food industry legally accountable for obesity?
- Should school cafeterias only offer healthy food options?
- Is acupuncture a valid medical technique?
- Should assisted suicide be legal?
- Does consuming meat affect health?
- Is dieting a good way to lose weight?
Law and politics
- Should voting be made compulsory?
- Should the President (or similar position) be allowed to serve more than two terms?
- Would poverty reduce by fixing housing?
- Should drug addicts be sent for treatment in hospitals instead of prisons?
- Would it be fair for the government to detain suspected terrorists without proper trial?
- Is torture acceptable when used for national security?
- Should celebrities who break the law receive stiffer penalties?
- Should the government completely ban all cigarettes and tobacco products
- Is it wrong for the media to promote a certain beauty standard?
- Is the media responsible for the moral degradation of teenagers?
- Should advertising be aimed at children?
- Has freedom of press gone too far?
- Should prayer be allowed in public schools?
- Does religion have a place in government?
- How do cults differ from religion?
Science and the environment
- Should recycling be mandatory?
- Should genetically modified foods be sold in supermarkets?
- Should parents be allowed to choose the sex of their unborn children?
- Should selling plastic bags be completely banned in shops?
- Should smoking in public places be banned?
- Should professional female athletes be paid the same as male athletes in the same sport?
- Should doping be allowed in professional sports?
- Should schools be required to teach all students how to swim?
- How does parental pressure affect young athletes?
- Will technology reduce or increase human employment opportunities?
- What age should children be allowed to have mobile phones?
- Should libraries be replaced with unlimited access to e-books?
- Should we recognize Bitcoin as a legal currency?
- Should bloggers and vloggers be treated as journalists and punished for indiscretions?
- Has technology helped connect people or isolate them?
- Should mobile phone use in public places be regulated?
- Do violent video games make people more violent?
World peace
- What is the safest country in the world?
- Is planetary nuclear disarmament possible?
- Is the idea of peace on earth naive?
These topics are just suggestions so you need to assess whether they would be suitable for your particular audience. You can easily adapt the topics to suit your interests and audience, for example, you could substitute “meat” in the topic “Does consuming meat affect health?” for many possibilities, such as “processed foods”, “mainly vegan food”, “dairy” and so on.
After choosing your topic
After you’ve chosen your topic it’s important to do the following:
- Research thoroughly
- Think about all of the different viewpoints
- Tailor to your audience – discussing your topic with others is a helpful way to gain an understanding of your audience.
- How involved are you with this topic – are you a key character?
- Have you contributed to this area, perhaps through blogs, books, papers and products.
- How qualified are you to speak on this topic?
- Do you have personal experience in it? How many years?
- How long have you been interested in the area?
While it may be difficult to choose from such a variety of persuasive speech topics, think about which of the above you have the most knowledge of and can argue your opinion on.
For advice about how to deliver your persuasive speech, check out our blog Persuasive Speech Outline and Ideas .
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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Everything begins with an idea!
Persuasive Policy Speech Topics
Having the ability to deliver a speech is a valuable skill to develop. You need to know what to talk about if you are going to express your ideas or thoughts on something. When coming up with a speech, it needs not only to be interesting but creative and original.
Before choosing what to write about, you need to know what type of speech you are writing. Your language and style need to be healthy and productive. When the time of choosing a subject for the paper, it is not easy, and most students struggle. One of the best ways to narrow down on a topic is by studying speeches already done by great leaders. Here you will get to gain more understanding of the subject while also finding something that interests you. Once you have a clear understanding of the topic, you can write a good speech.
When researching on the subject, make sure you focus on the issue at hand. It ensures that you grasp everything that needs to know about the policies. Good persuasive policy speech topic ideas will help you create a connection with your readers or listeners. It should be interesting enough to catch the attention of your audience, even though they have different opinions, they should be able to pay attention to it.
The topic you choose might not be popular, but it needs to be relevant. Check out the following theme proposal examples to help you come up with ideas for your persuasive policy speech topics.
- Work hours plan
- Military women
- The first-time restaurants fail the health inspection they should close down
- Meals served in school should be free of charge
- Local economic development policies should be in every city
- Human rights violation was present in china’s one-child policy
- The importance of breakfast and why it is the most important meal of the day
- The minimum age for a voter should change
- The African continent should get more from western politicians
- Working mothers should have the same benefits as welfare mothers.
- Getting into the physical space by weaving digital information
- The ability to manipulate digital objects and reaching into the computer
- More money should be there for improving railroads and highways
- The poor selling their organs for cash should be illegal
- There should be an international forestry agency.
- International protocols should ensure marine environment biodiversity gets protected
- The hot issue in the middle east is water
- The war on narcotics and drugs should allow warrantless search and seizure
- The electoral college voting system
- Absentee ballot and voter registration
- University visitation rules
- The homeless can survive if urban shelters could help them
- The contents of the ten commandments have nothing wrong with them
- Double dipping in collecting company paychecks and retirement pensions is not wrong
- Is it a good idea to use surveillance cameras in places like parking lots, or is it a violation of privacy?
- The Kyoto protocol has not adequately addressed carbon emission
- The Patriot Act
- Cars sharing data with others to avoid accidents is an encroachment of privacy
- The regular criminal justice system should not try terrorists; instead, they should get worked in a military tribunal
- The future of both the mother and child of teenage pregnancy gets affected by the pregnancy
As you write your essay, you need to remember that the objective of your article is to identify and describe a problem and persuade the audience to seek a resolution. The audience needs to understand the importance of the issue to make your speech successful.
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Persuasive Presentation Topics for Students: 100+ Compelling Ideas
Discover 100+ persuasive presentation topics for students, covering social issues, education, environment, and more. Find the perfect topic to engage and convince your audience.
What Makes a Good Persuasive Presentation Topic?
- Relevance: The topic should be timely and resonate with your audience's interests and concerns.
- Controversy: Persuasive topics often spark debate. Choosing a subject with differing viewpoints can make your presentation more engaging.
- Clarity: The topic should be clear and straightforward, enabling the audience to understand your stance and arguments easily.
- Passion: Choose a topic you are passionate about. Your enthusiasm will come across and help persuade your audience.
- Researchability: Ensure there is enough credible information available to support your arguments.
How to Choose the Right Topic for Your Presentation
- Identify Your Audience: Consider their interests, knowledge level, and viewpoints.
- Define Your Purpose: Are you trying to inform, persuade, or inspire your audience? Your goal will shape your topic choice.
- Brainstorm Ideas: Write down all potential topics that come to mind, even if they seem unconventional.
- Narrow Down Options: Filter your list based on feasibility, interest, and relevance.
- Do Preliminary Research: Ensure you have enough data to back up your arguments and develop a compelling case.
100+ Persuasive Presentation Topics for Students
1. social issues.
- Should social media platforms be regulated more strictly?
- Is the #MeToo movement effective in preventing sexual harassment?
- Should the voting age be lowered to 16?
- Is cancel culture harmful or beneficial to society?
- Should same-sex marriage be legalized worldwide?
- Are social media influencers a negative influence on young people?
- Is affirmative action still necessary in modern society?
- Should all public places provide gender-neutral restrooms?
- Is the death penalty an effective deterrent against crime?
- Should the legal drinking age be lowered or raised?
2. Education
- Should schools switch to a four-day school week?
- Is standardized testing an accurate measure of student ability?
- Should college education be free for all?
- Is homeschooling better than traditional schooling?
- Should financial literacy be a mandatory subject in high schools?
- Are single-sex schools better for students?
- Should students be required to wear uniforms in school?
- Is technology in classrooms a boon or bane?
- Should teachers' salaries be based on student performance?
- Is year-round schooling more beneficial for students?
3. Environment and Sustainability
- Is climate change the greatest threat to future generations?
- Should plastic bags be banned globally?
- Is nuclear energy the solution to our energy crisis?
- Should governments enforce a meat tax to combat climate change?
- Are electric cars truly eco-friendly?
- Should deforestation be made illegal?
- Is fast fashion harming the environment beyond repair?
- Should the use of pesticides in agriculture be banned?
- Is it better to invest in conservation or sustainable development?
- Should recycling be mandatory worldwide?
4. Technology and Innovation
- Are AI and automation leading to mass unemployment?
- Should there be a legal limit on screen time for children?
- Is the use of drones a violation of privacy?
- Are self-driving cars safe for widespread use?
- Should governments regulate cryptocurrency?
- Is genetic engineering ethical?
- Should social media companies be held accountable for fake news?
- Are video games more harmful than beneficial for children?
- Should there be limits on personal data collection by companies?
- Is the internet making us more or less intelligent?
5. Health and Wellness
- Should healthcare be free for all?
- Is a vegan diet healthier than a non-vegan diet?
- Should the government regulate the fast-food industry more strictly?
- Is the anti-vaccine movement dangerous?
- Should mental health days be mandatory in schools and workplaces?
- Are alternative medicines effective?
- Should there be stricter laws against cosmetic surgery for minors?
- Is addiction a choice or a disease?
- Should physical education be mandatory in schools?
- Are sports drinks beneficial or harmful to children?
6. Politics and Government
- Should voting be mandatory?
- Is the two-party system effective for democratic governance?
- Should there be term limits for all elected officials?
- Are current immigration policies fair?
- Should hate speech be protected under free speech?
- Is political correctness beneficial for society?
- Should foreign aid be prioritized over domestic needs?
- Are economic sanctions an effective tool for diplomacy?
- Is the current tax system fair?
- Should countries have open borders?
7. Science and Ethics
- Is animal testing necessary for scientific research?
- Should cloning be allowed for medical purposes?
- Are GMOs safe for consumption?
- Should human genetic modification be allowed?
- Is space exploration worth the cost?
- Should organ donation be mandatory?
- Is it ethical to use animals for entertainment?
- Should there be a limit on human lifespan extension research?
- Is euthanasia morally acceptable?
- Should we prioritize research on renewable energy over fossil fuels?
8. Business and Economics
- Should minimum wage be raised to a living wage?
- Is globalization beneficial or harmful?
- Should gig economy workers receive benefits and protections?
- Are monopolies always bad for consumers?
- Should advertising to children be banned?
- Is outsourcing jobs unethical?
- Should luxury goods be taxed higher?
- Is the wealth gap a threat to democracy?
- Should companies be penalized for environmental damage?
- Are cryptocurrency and blockchain the future of finance?
9. Entertainment and Media
- Is reality TV harmful to society?
- Should violent video games be banned?
- Is there too much censorship in media?
- Should celebrity influence on social issues be encouraged?
- Are awards shows still relevant today?
- Should pirated content be more severely punished?
- Is binge-watching harmful to mental health?
- Are eSports real sports?
- Is the portrayal of women in media improving?
- Should books with controversial topics be banned from schools?
10. Personal Development
- Is the concept of work-life balance achievable?
- Are college degrees necessary for success?
- Should everyone practice mindfulness and meditation?
- Is failure necessary for success?
- Should personal finance be a compulsory subject in school?
- Is time management the key to success?
- Are goals more effective than resolutions?
- Should everyone have a social media presence?
- Is self-discipline more important than motivation?
- Should travel be an essential part of education?
Tips for Creating an Effective Persuasive Presentation
- Start with a Hook: Begin your presentation with a question, statistic, or anecdote to grab your audience’s attention.
- Structure Your Arguments: Use a clear structure with an introduction, body, and conclusion. Make sure each point logically follows the previous one.
- Use Strong Evidence: Support your claims with facts, statistics, quotes, and real-life examples.
- Address Counterarguments: Acknowledge opposing views and refute them with solid reasoning.
- Engage with Your Audience: Ask questions, use visual aids, and interact with your audience to keep them engaged.
- Practice, Practice, Practice: Rehearse your presentation multiple times to ensure smooth delivery and confidence.
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Find out how to write a policy speech that persuades your audience to care about a public problem and its solution. Browse a list of 170 policy speech topics on various issues, from environmental sciences to welfare reform.
Below is a list of thirty persuasive policy speech topics that you can use as inspiration for your next presentation. 1. The need for stricter gun control laws in the United States. 2. The benefits of free trade agreements. 3. The importance of investing in renewable energy. 4.
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.
Here's a list of twenty of the best policy speech topics that are relevant and thought-provoking for high school or college students. Each topic is framed as a question. It's easy to frame these topics for debate by writing them as a resolution rather than a question of policy speech topics. For example, the first topic on climate change could ...
We've compiled a list of 110 persuasive speech topics—broken down by category—for you to choose from or use as inspiration. Use the set of three questions we shared above to determine which of these interesting persuasive speech topics is right for you. Art, Media, and Culture.
Below is a list of thirty persuasive policy speech topics that you can use as inspiration for your next presentation. 1. The need for stricter gun control laws in the United States. 2. The benefits of free trade agreements. 3. The importance of investing in renewable energy. 4.
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 ...
Many timely persuasive speech topics can be found on radio, TV, your local newspaper, or your Facebook and Twitter feeds. We also have Argumentative (which is a type of persuasive speech on a controversial issue) and Policy topics. If you know of a cool topic, please send it to us and we will publish it on our page with fresh topics.
Discover engaging persuasive speech topics and master the art of influence with our expert guide, perfect for professionals aiming to captivate audiences. ... Educational Reform and Policy Changes: Schools shape societies' futures; thus discussions around education reforms carry weight for many listeners looking toward tomorrow's promise.
1. Compelling topic. The foundation of a persuasive speech lies in choosing a topic that is relevant, interesting, and has the potential to spark debate. It should be a subject you are passionate about and knowledgeable about, as this will enhance your credibility and enthusiasm. 2. Clear thesis statement.
1. Questions of Policy. One focus of persuasive speaking is questions of policy, which advocates a change from the status quo, or the way things are today. There is a "should," or at least an implied "should," in the thesis statement. The speaker wants the plan proposed by the speech to become policy. Questions of policy contrast with questions ...
How to write a persuasive speech. Incorporate the following steps when writing a persuasive speech: Step 1 - Identify the type of persuasive speech (factual, value, or policy) that will help accomplish the goal of the presentation. Step 2 - Select a good persuasive speech topic to accomplish the goal and choose a position. How to write a persuasive speech
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.
Best Persuasive Speech Topics. Persuasive speeches are essential for anyone looking to influence or inspire an audience. Doesn't matter if you're a student preparing for a class assignment, a professional making a business pitch, a good persuasive speech topic can make all the difference.
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 ...
There are multiple factors that make some persuasive speech topic ideas better than others. Three major things to think about when choosing a persuasive speech topic from this list are: 1) make ...
The best topics are those that: Spark Interest: Choose a topic that not only interests you but also has the potential to engage your audience. A topic that evokes curiosity or an emotional response can be particularly compelling. Are Debatable: A good persuasive speech topic should have clear arguments for and against.
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 among individuals and groups. There are many interesting arguments and stances on both topics, and many people have strong opinions about them.
Persuasive speech topics can inspire an audience and influence change in your community, town, or city. Whether you are giving a presentation at a large conference or converting a college essay into a speech to be given at your high school's auditorium, delivering a persuasive speech is not an easy task. We are here to guide you through this difficult process and provide you with 150 ...
100 Examples of Persuasive Speech Topics. 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.
The aim of a persuasive speech is to inform, educate and convince or motivate an audience to do something. You are essentially trying to sway the audience to adopt your own viewpoint. The best persuasive speech topics are thought-provoking, daring and have a clear opinion. You should speak about something you are knowledgeable about and can ...
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.
Check out the following theme proposal examples to help you come up with ideas for your persuasive policy speech topics. Get Writing Help. Rated 4.8 out of 5. Work hours plan. Military women. The first-time restaurants fail the health inspection they should close down. Meals served in school should be free of charge.
Relevance: The topic should be timely and resonate with your audience's interests and concerns. Controversy: Persuasive topics often spark debate. Choosing a subject with differing viewpoints can make your presentation more engaging. Clarity: The topic should be clear and straightforward, enabling the audience to understand your stance and arguments easily.