persuasive speech topic about social media

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Persuasive speech topics about social media, bob cardens.

September 10, 2022
Essay Topics and Ideas

In recent years, social media has become an increasingly popular topic of conversation. Whether you love it or hate it, there’s no denying that social media has a big impact on our lives. In this article, we’ll take a look at some persuasive speech topics about social media so that you can get some ideas for your own speeches.

What You'll Learn

The following is a list of fifty persuasive speech topics about social media. This list is not exhaustive but it will give you a good idea of the range of topics that you could choose from:

The impact of social media on society
The advantages and disadvantages of social media
The implications of social media for businesses
The use of social media in marketing
The benefits and drawbacks of using social media for communication
The role of social media in education
The potential of social media for political engagement
The use of social media in the news industry
The impact of social media on our personal relationships
How social media is changing the way we interact with each other
Is social media making us more or less socially connected?
How does social media affect our mental health?
Can we trust the information we find on social media?
Should there be limits on what we can post on social media?
Is social media creating a generation of narcissists?
Do we need to be worried about the amount of time we spend on social media?
Is social media desensitising us to violence and suffering?
Should we be worried about the amount of personal information we share on social media?
Is social media making us less able to concentrate and pay attention?
How is social media affecting the way we think and process information?
Is social media creating a generation of shallow thinkers?
How does social media affect our memory and recall?
Is social media making it harder for us to empathise with others?
Should parents be concerned about what their children are doing on social media?
What are the dangers of cyberbullying on social media?
What are the risks of sharing too much information on social media?
How can we protect our privacy on social media?
Can social media be addictive?
What are the consequences of spending too much time on social media?
Should employers be allowed to access employee’s social media accounts?
Can employers discriminate against employees based on their social media activity?
What are the implications of social media for employees’ rights to privacy?
Should schools be monitoring students’ social media accounts?
Can social media be used to cheat in exams?
What are the academic benefits of using social media?
What are the risks of using social media in academic research?
Should universities be using social media to recruit students?
How can we use social media to create a more inclusive society?
What are the implications of social media for democracy?
Can social media be used to combat racism and sexism?
How does social media affect our ability to have meaningful conversations?
What are the dangers of echo chambers on social media?
How can we use social media to promote open and honest dialogue?
Is it possible to have a healthy relationship with social media?
What are the benefits of taking a break from social media?
How can we make sure that we are using social media in a positive way?
What are the risks of using social media while driving?
What are the risks of using social media while walking or cycling?
How can we make sure that we are not addicted to social media?
How can we use social media in a way that is beneficial to our mental health?

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15 Topics About Social Media

persuasive speech topic about social media

Social media has become an integral part of our lives, and it’s no surprise that it’s such a popular topic for discussion. From the impact of social media on our daily lives to the potential benefits and drawbacks it can bring, there is an array of topics to explore. Here is a list of potential topics about social media to consider.

1. The History and Evolution of Social Media: From MySpace to TikTok

2. the impact of social media on society, 3. the role of social media in marketing and advertising, 4. managing your online presence: tips for using social media safely and effectively, 5. social media and mental health: the pros and cons, 6. the ethics of social media: privacy, misinformation, and cyberbullying, 7. the future of social media: predictions and trends, 8. social media and politics: the role of social media in elections and governance, 9. social media and relationships: how it affects personal connections and communication, 10. the business of social media: how companies use social platforms to connect with customers and increase sales, 11. social media and the spread of misinformation, 12. social media and cyberbullying: prevention and response, 13. the future of social media: predictions and trends, 14. the benefits and pitfalls of social media, 15. privacy and security on social media: tips and best practice, final thoughts.

To approach the topic of the history and evolution of social media, you could start by researching the early pioneers of social media, such as MySpace and LiveJournal, and how they paved the way for the development of more modern platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Overall, there are many different angles that you could take when exploring the history and evolution of social media, and the specific approach you choose will depend on what you want the topic to radiate.

To research these topics, you could start by gathering information from a variety of sources, including academic articles, news articles, and social media platforms themselves. You could also consider conducting surveys or interviews with individuals who use social media to get a more personal perspective on the impact of these platforms.

There are many different angles that you could take when exploring the role of social media in marketing and advertising. By considering both the perspectives of businesses and consumers, you can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the role that social media plays in this arena.

Managing Your Online Presence: Tips for Using Social Media Safely and Effectively” is a relevant topic for a list of topics about social media because it addresses important issues related to the use of social media platforms. With the increasing use of social media, it’s important for individuals to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to protect their online presence.

This topic is highly relevant to the list of topics about social media, as it examines the potential impacts of social media usage on mental health. By looking at both the potential positive and negative effects of social media usage, this topic provides an in-depth look at the intersection between social media and mental health.

Understanding the ethical implications of using social media can help users make more informed decisions about how to use the platform responsibly. Topics such as privacy, misinformation, and cyberbullying can help users understand the potential risks associated with their online activity and how to protect themselves.

It addresses key questions such as which platforms will remain popular, new trends that will emerge, and how users will interact with each other in the future. Additionally, this topic provides insight into how businesses can use social media to their advantage, such as analyzing customer data and leveraging influencer marketing.

Examining the role of social media in elections and governance is essential for understanding the potential for social media to shape political discourse and decision-making. By understanding how political actors are using social media to engage with citizens and how citizens are using social media to engage with each other, audiences can gain insight into the impacts of social media on the political process.

This topic is especially important in today’s digital world, as social media use has become increasingly prevalent and can have a profound impact on our relationships. It is relevant to social media, as it provides insight into how this technology is impacting our interpersonal relationships and communication.

In this day and age, understanding the business of social media is essential for companies to stay competitive and successful. This topic offers insight into how companies can use social media platforms to better engage with customers and further increase sales.

Understanding the spread of misinformation on social media is an important topic for any discussion about social media. As platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram become increasingly popular and influential, it is important to consider how false or misleading information can spread quickly and have a significant impact on public opinion.

Online bullying is a major concern for many people who use social media, and this topic is highly relevant today. It covers the important aspects of preventing cyberbullying and responding to it if it does occur, which are both essential for users of social media to understand.

This is an important topic to discuss because it can help social media professionals and users understand how the platform may change and adapt with the times. Additionally, it can help them plan ahead and anticipate how their use of social media may need to change in order to stay competitive and capitalize on any potential opportunities.

This topic is highly relevant to many conversations about social media as it provides an opportunity to discuss the pros and cons of using social media, and how to use it responsibly. It can also be a great starting point for exploring the potential implications of social media use on individuals, communities, and society as a whole.

Privacy and security on social media is a crucial topic for individuals and organizations alike. With the increasing reliance on social media for communication and the sharing of personal information, it is important for users to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to protect their privacy and security.

In conclusion, social media is a complex and multifaceted topic that touches upon a wide range of issues and concerns. From privacy and security to mental health and political discourse, the impact of social media on society is far-reaching and constantly evolving. As such, it is important for individuals and organizations to stay informed about the latest developments and trends in social media, and to engage in ongoing conversations about the role and responsibilities of these platforms.

Persuasive Essay

Persuasive Essays About Social Media

Last updated on: Jan 2, 2024

Learning From Pros To Write Persuasive Essays About Social Media

By: Donna C.

Reviewed By: Jacklyn H.

Published on: Jan 26, 2023

Writing a persuasive essay about social media can be tough. Most people want to make sure they convince their readers of their argument without coming across as aggressive.

We’ve gathered some examples you can use to write a persuasive essay about social media.

They will show you how to structure your argument, choose evidence, and avoid common mistakes.

With our help, you'll be able to write a convincing essay that will get your reader's attention.

Let’s get started!

On this Page

What is a Persuasive Essay?

A persuasive essay tries to convince readers to accept your point of view or opinion on a particular topic.

You must take a stand, support it with facts and evidence, and explain why it's the right viewpoint.

It's not enough to just give an opinion; you need to back it up with data and research.

Persuasive essays are usually written as argumentative essays, so you must develop a thesis statement and support it with evidence.

Writing a persuasive essay can be difficult. Using strong logic and careful arguments can convince your readers to see things from your perspective.

How to start a Persuasive essay about social media?

Here’s how you can start a persuasive essay:

Start your persuasive essay about social networking sites by introducing the issue and outlining why it matters.
Explain the potential implications of unrestricted access to social media and how that could affect our society.
Take a stance on the issue, supporting it with evidence from reliable sources.
Discuss ways social media can be used to benefit our lives, as well as possible risks associated with its use.
End your persuasive essay with a call to action, encouraging readers to make informed decisions about social media usage.

Need help in starting your essay? See how you can create a persuasive essay outline .

Remember, the main goal of your essay is to persuade readers to consider your point of view.

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That's our Job!

Here is an example to show you how to write an introduction:

Persuasive essay about social media introduction

Not sure on how to write the intro? Watch this video to write a perfect introduction.

Persuasive Essay Examples About Social Media

Social media has become an integral part of our lives. It's time to understand its power and impact.

Let’s start with a simple persuasive essay about social media.

Here are a few persuasive essay examples that showcase the potential of social media positively and negatively.

Persuasive essay about social media addiction

Persuasive essay about social media platforms are a danger to our privacy

Persuasive essay about social media - beneficial or harmful

Persuasive essay about social media privacy

Examples Of Argumentative Essay About Social Media

It's clear that social media has changed how we interact and communicate with others. So it's no surprise that this topic makes for an excellent argumentative essay.

Here are some examples of argumentative essays about social media that you can use as inspiration to get started:

Argumentative essay about social media advantages and disadvantages

Argumentative essay about social media addiction

Argumentative essay about social media on students

Looking for more sample PDFs? Take a look at these persuasive essay examples !

Tough Essay Due? Hire Tough Writers!

Persuasive Essay Topics About Social Media

Here are some ideas for persuasive essay topics about social media:

Should governments be able to control the content that appears on social networks?
How can companies protect their data from hackers and other malicious actors on social media platforms?
How has social media impacted real-life relationships between individuals and groups?
Are influencers a powerful tool of persuasion, or are they a threat to democracy?
How can schools and universities use social media responsibly in the classroom?
Should employers be allowed to monitor their employees' use of social media during work hours?
Is the current data privacy landscape sufficient to protect individual users on social networks?
Should businesses be held accountable for their social media content?
How have the algorithms used by social media companies impacted our lives?
What are the ethical implications of using targeted advertising based on user data collected from social networks?

Need more options? Here are some more persuasive essay topics for you!

Let’s sum it up!

Social media isn't going away anytime soon, and lots of people need to understand the benefits and dangers of using it.

By writing a persuasive essay about social media, you can help others become more aware of both sides of the issue.

Our examples make it easier for people to make an informed decision about how to use it responsibly.

Make your voice heard and write a persuasive essay about social media today.

Are you looking for an essay writer who can craft an argument that will make your reader stand up and listen?

SharkPapers.com has got you covered!

Our essay writing service is designed to help you create the perfect argument supported by expert-level research and compelling evidence.

We understand how important it is to ensure your essay is persuasive.

So if you're looking for a top-notch persuasive essay writing service, SharkPapers.com is the place to be.

Let our persuasive essay writer craft the perfect argument for you today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some good persuasive essay topics.

When choosing a topic, you need something interesting that grabs the reader’s attention.

Here are some great topics for your next persuasive essay:

1. Should schools have mandatory uniforms? 2. Should students be allowed to use cell phones in class? 3. Should we get rid of teacher tenure? 4. Is gun control an effective way to reduce crime rates? 5. Do video games lead to violence among teens?

How do you write an introduction for social media essay?

The main purpose of an introduction is to provide a general overview of the topic and spark interest in readers. So it should be concise yet intriguing.

To give you an idea, here are some advice and tips on how to write an effective introduction:

1. Start with a hook 2. Provide background information 3. Include relevant research studies 4. Mention central points

What is a good title for a social media essay?

If you're looking for a great title for a social media essay, why not consider this:

"The Impact of Social Media on Our Lives: A Detailed Analysis".

Law, Education

Donna writes on a broad range of topics, but she is mostly passionate about social issues, current events, and human-interest stories. She has received high praise for her writing from both colleagues and readers alike. Donna is known in her field for creating content that is not only professional but also captivating.

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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!

125+ Persuasive Speech Topics To Amaze Your Audience

Reviewed by:

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 12/15/23

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

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

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

Keep reading for 125+ persuasive speech topics.

125+ Topics for a Persuasive Speech

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

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

1. Arts & Culture

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

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

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

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

2. Economics

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

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

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

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

3. Education

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

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

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

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

4. Environment

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Politics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Technology

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

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

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

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

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

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

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

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

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

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

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

FAQs: Persuasive Speech Topics

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

1. What Are Some Easy Persuasive Topics?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Final Thoughts

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

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

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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.

Need more help with this topic? Check out Tutorbase!

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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.

Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points or your ACT score by 4 points? We've written a guide for each test about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download it for free now:

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

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

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

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

🔝 Top 10 Persuasive Speech Topics in 2024

✍️ persuasive speech outline, 😊 easy persuasive speech topics.

🎒 Speech Topics for High School
🎓 Speech Topics for College

⭐ Good Persuasive Speech Topics

💊 medical persuasive speech topics.

🍃 Environmental Speech Topics

⚖️ Ethical Persuasive Speech Topics

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

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

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

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

🎒 Persuasive Speech Topics for High School

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

🎓 Persuasive Speech Topics for College

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

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

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

Persuasive Speech Topics about Music

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

Sports Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Social Media Persuasive Speech Topics

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

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

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

Mental Health Persuasive Speech Topics

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

This image lists common myths about mental health.

Psychology Persuasive Speech Topics

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

🍃 Environmental Persuasive Speech Topics

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

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

This image shows environmental issues to argue about.

Persuasive Speech Topics about Food

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

Persuasive Speech Topics About Animals

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

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

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

Business Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Political Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Persuasive Speech Topics About Education

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

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

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

This image shows current problems with possible solutions.

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

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

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

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

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

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

What Is a Persuasive Speech?

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

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech?

Various qualities characterize effective persuasive speeches:

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

What to Write a Persuasive Speech on?

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

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

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

What Are Good Persuasive Speech Topics?

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

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

March 17, 2021 - Gini Beqiri

A persuasive speech is a speech that is given with the intention of convincing the audience to believe or do something. This could be virtually anything – voting, organ donation, recycling, and so on.

A successful persuasive speech effectively convinces the audience to your point of view, providing you come across as trustworthy and knowledgeable about the topic you’re discussing.

So, how do you start convincing a group of strangers to share your opinion? And how do you connect with them enough to earn their trust?

Topics for your persuasive speech

We’ve made a list of persuasive speech topics you could use next time you’re asked to give one. The topics are thought-provoking and things which many people have an opinion on.

When using any of our persuasive speech ideas, make sure you have a solid knowledge about the topic you’re speaking about – and make sure you discuss counter arguments too.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

All school children should wear a uniform
Facebook is making people more socially anxious
It should be illegal to drive over the age of 80
Lying isn’t always wrong
The case for organ donation

Read our full list of 75 persuasive speech topics and ideas .

Preparation: Consider your audience

As with any speech, preparation is crucial. Before you put pen to paper, think about what you want to achieve with your speech. This will help organise your thoughts as you realistically can only cover 2-4 main points before your audience get bored .

It’s also useful to think about who your audience are at this point. If they are unlikely to know much about your topic then you’ll need to factor in context of your topic when planning the structure and length of your speech. You should also consider their:

Cultural or religious backgrounds
Shared concerns, attitudes and problems
Shared interests, beliefs and hopes
Baseline attitude – are they hostile, neutral, or open to change?

The factors above will all determine the approach you take to writing your speech. For example, if your topic is about childhood obesity, you could begin with a story about your own children or a shared concern every parent has. This would suit an audience who are more likely to be parents than young professionals who have only just left college.

Remember the 3 main approaches to persuade others

There are three main approaches used to persuade others:

The ethos approach appeals to the audience’s ethics and morals, such as what is the ‘right thing’ to do for humanity, saving the environment, etc.

Pathos persuasion is when you appeal to the audience’s emotions, such as when you tell a story that makes them the main character in a difficult situation.

The logos approach to giving a persuasive speech is when you appeal to the audience’s logic – ie. your speech is essentially more driven by facts and logic. The benefit of this technique is that your point of view becomes virtually indisputable because you make the audience feel that only your view is the logical one.

Ethos, Pathos, Logos: 3 Pillars of Public Speaking and Persuasion

Ideas for your persuasive speech outline

1. structure of your persuasive speech.

The opening and closing of speech are the most important. Consider these carefully when thinking about your persuasive speech outline. A strong opening ensures you have the audience’s attention from the start and gives them a positive first impression of you.

You’ll want to start with a strong opening such as an attention grabbing statement, statistic of fact. These are usually dramatic or shocking, such as:

Sadly, in the next 18 minutes when I do our chat, four Americans that are alive will be dead from the food that they eat – Jamie Oliver

Another good way of starting a persuasive speech is to include your audience in the picture you’re trying to paint. By making them part of the story, you’re embedding an emotional connection between them and your speech.

You could do this in a more toned-down way by talking about something you know that your audience has in common with you. It’s also helpful at this point to include your credentials in a persuasive speech to gain your audience’s trust.

Speech structure and speech argument for a persuasive speech outline.

Obama would spend hours with his team working on the opening and closing statements of his speech.

2. Stating your argument

You should pick between 2 and 4 themes to discuss during your speech so that you have enough time to explain your viewpoint and convince your audience to the same way of thinking.

It’s important that each of your points transitions seamlessly into the next one so that your speech has a logical flow. Work on your connecting sentences between each of your themes so that your speech is easy to listen to.

Your argument should be backed up by objective research and not purely your subjective opinion. Use examples, analogies, and stories so that the audience can relate more easily to your topic, and therefore are more likely to be persuaded to your point of view.

3. Addressing counter-arguments

Any balanced theory or thought addresses and disputes counter-arguments made against it. By addressing these, you’ll strengthen your persuasive speech by refuting your audience’s objections and you’ll show that you are knowledgeable to other thoughts on the topic.

When describing an opposing point of view, don’t explain it in a bias way – explain it in the same way someone who holds that view would describe it. That way, you won’t irritate members of your audience who disagree with you and you’ll show that you’ve reached your point of view through reasoned judgement. Simply identify any counter-argument and pose explanations against them.

Complete Guide to Debating

4. Closing your speech

Your closing line of your speech is your last chance to convince your audience about what you’re saying. It’s also most likely to be the sentence they remember most about your entire speech so make sure it’s a good one!

The most effective persuasive speeches end with a call to action . For example, if you’ve been speaking about organ donation, your call to action might be asking the audience to register as donors.

Practice answering AI questions on your speech and get feedback on your performance .

If audience members ask you questions, make sure you listen carefully and respectfully to the full question. Don’t interject in the middle of a question or become defensive.

You should show that you have carefully considered their viewpoint and refute it in an objective way (if you have opposing opinions). Ensure you remain patient, friendly and polite at all times.

Example 1: Persuasive speech outline

This example is from the Kentucky Community and Technical College.

Specific purpose

To persuade my audience to start walking in order to improve their health.

Central idea

Regular walking can improve both your mental and physical health.

Introduction

Let’s be honest, we lead an easy life: automatic dishwashers, riding lawnmowers, T.V. remote controls, automatic garage door openers, power screwdrivers, bread machines, electric pencil sharpeners, etc., etc. etc. We live in a time-saving, energy-saving, convenient society. It’s a wonderful life. Or is it?

Example 2: Persuasive speech

Tips for delivering your persuasive speech

Practice, practice, and practice some more . Record yourself speaking and listen for any nervous habits you have such as a nervous laugh, excessive use of filler words, or speaking too quickly.
Show confident body language . Stand with your legs hip width apart with your shoulders centrally aligned. Ground your feet to the floor and place your hands beside your body so that hand gestures come freely. Your audience won’t be convinced about your argument if you don’t sound confident in it. Find out more about confident body language here .
Don’t memorise your speech word-for-word or read off a script. If you memorise your persuasive speech, you’ll sound less authentic and panic if you lose your place. Similarly, if you read off a script you won’t sound genuine and you won’t be able to connect with the audience by making eye contact . In turn, you’ll come across as less trustworthy and knowledgeable. You could simply remember your key points instead, or learn your opening and closing sentences.
Remember to use facial expressions when storytelling – they make you more relatable. By sharing a personal story you’ll more likely be speaking your truth which will help you build a connection with the audience too. Facial expressions help bring your story to life and transport the audience into your situation.
Keep your speech as concise as possible . When practicing the delivery, see if you can edit it to have the same meaning but in a more succinct way. This will keep the audience engaged.

The best persuasive speech ideas are those that spark a level of controversy. However, a public speech is not the time to express an opinion that is considered outside the norm. If in doubt, play it safe and stick to topics that divide opinions about 50-50.

Bear in mind who your audience are and plan your persuasive speech outline accordingly, with researched evidence to support your argument. It’s important to consider counter-arguments to show that you are knowledgeable about the topic as a whole and not bias towards your own line of thought.

103 Good Persuasive Speech Topics for Students in 2023

March 31, 2023

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 85 Great Debate Topics , which can be used to generate further ideas.

What is a 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 great 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, and the more your audience will be 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.

103 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?

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 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 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?

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?

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 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?
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?

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?

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 army. 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?

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?

Funny 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?

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?

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.

Putting Together 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 in helping you establish your authority. Take notes as you go.
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 . 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 draw the audience in and engage them.
Practice ! As Yoda says: “ Mastery, you seek. Practice, you must .” It sounds cheesy, but it’s true: the more you practice, the more confident you’ll be when it’s time to get up there. Read your speech out loud several times. Be sure to speak slowly and enunciate, and don’t be afraid to make eye contact with your listeners to stay connected.

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!

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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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215 Persuasive Speech Topics to Elevate Your Talk

Persuasive speech topics are the heartbeat of every compelling presentation. They’re the first sparks that ignite the flames of passion, belief, and action in your audience.

The right topic ensures your voice doesn’t just add to the noise, but pierces through it, making a lasting impact.

But not all topics are created equal. Some have the magic to captivate, to make listeners lean in, eager for your every word. Others might fall flat, no matter how eloquently you present them.

Selecting the perfect topic isn’t just a step in the process—it’s the foundation.

As we venture into a curated list of 150 powerful topics today, remember that your choice has the potential to change perspectives, inspire action, and even transform lives.

What is a persuasive speech?

A persuasive speech is a type of discourse aimed at influencing the beliefs, attitudes, or behaviors of an audience by presenting compelling arguments and evidence. It seeks to convince listeners to adopt a particular viewpoint or take a specific action.

Why Choose Persuasive Speech Topics

When crafting a speech to persuade, selecting the appropriate topic is not just the first step but the most crucial one. It’s the foundation upon which the entire structure of your argument is built. Here’s why:

Audience Connection . The right topic resonates with your audience. It speaks to their interests, concerns, or desires. A topic that aligns with their values or challenges their beliefs will hold their attention more effectively.

Credibility and Authenticity . Choosing a topic you are passionate and knowledgeable about establishes your credibility. An authentic voice, backed by facts and genuine concern, is more persuasive than mere rhetoric.

Structured Arguments . A well-chosen topic lends itself to clear, organized arguments. It allows for a logical progression of ideas, ensuring your speech is coherent and compelling from start to finish.

Memorability . The best speeches leave a lasting impression. When you choose a topic that’s timely, relevant, or thought-provoking, your audience is more likely to remember your message long after the applause.

Effective Call to Action . Your end goal is to persuade your audience to act or think differently. A clear, relatable topic sets the stage for a powerful call to action, motivating your listeners to respond with enthusiasm.

The topic is the soul of your speech to persuade. A well-chosen topic not only captivates your audience but also strengthens the impact and longevity of your message.

How to Choose Persuasive Speech Topics

Embarking on the journey of delivering a speech to persuade? It all begins with choosing the perfect topic. But how do you sift through countless ideas to find that golden nugget? Here’s a guide:

Know Your Audience , Understanding who you’re speaking to is paramount. Consider their age, background, interests, and values. A topic that resonates with one group might fall flat with another. Tailor your choice to captivate your listeners.

Passion and Knowledge . Choose a topic you’re passionate about and have knowledge on. Your enthusiasm will shine through, making your speech more engaging. Plus, a deep understanding boosts your credibility.

Relevance and Timeliness . In a rapidly changing world, current issues capture attention. Whether it’s the latest technological advancement or a hot-button social issue, timeliness can make your speech instantly relevant.

Debatable and Thought-Provoking . A good persuasive speech topic has multiple facets and isn’t black and white. It should spark discussion, encouraging your audience to think and form opinions.

Feasibility of Research . Ensure that your chosen topic has enough resources and data available. Your arguments need to be backed by facts, statistics, and credible sources to strengthen your stance.

Ethical Considerations . Always approach potentially sensitive topics with care. Your aim should be to inform and persuade without causing unnecessary distress or offense.

Unique Perspective . While some topics might be popular, offering a fresh, unique perspective can set your speech apart. Consider angles that haven’t been explored extensively to offer a fresh take.

Selecting the right persuasive speech topic isn’t just about what’s popular or interesting. It’s about merging your passion with your audience’s interests, ensuring that your message not only informs but truly persuades.

The Persuasive Speaker Bootcamp

Persuasive speech topics.

Navigating the sea of potential speech topics can be challenging. But when it comes to persuasive speech topics, certain areas never fail to captivate and engage. Below are a few selected categories and accompanying topics, followed by strategies on how to effectively tackle them.

You can also find links to sample articles or speeches that address this topic.

Introduction to Persuasive Speeches: Definition, Elements and Strategies

12 Ways to Improve Public Speaking Skills

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70 Tough Questions for Impromptu Speech (Plus Speech Patterns)

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Persuasive Speech Examples: Taking A Stand In Speech

Persuasive speech examples - use words vs. social ills

Persuasive speeches have been used throughout history to shape public opinion and shape behavior, and examples abound. Persuasive speech examples include virtually any topic – voting, racism, school uniforms, safety, organ donation, recycling, and so on.

From a teenager asking his parents to go out with friends to an aspiring politician convincing voters to choose him, many people use a persuasive speech to convince their audience members to do something. A successful persuasive speech entails getting someone to take action and be swayed to the speaker’s side.

Table of Contents

What Is A Persuasive Speech?

While an informative speech aims to enlighten the audience about a particular subject, a persuasive speech aims to influence the audience — and convince them to accept a particular point of view.

The central idea is to persuade, whether discussing a persuasive essay or ‌public speaking. This form of communication is a call to action for people to believe in and take action upon something.

Throughout history, persuasive speech ideas and their communicators have played a vital role in driving change, whether on a personal, community, societal, national, or even global level.

We’ve seen leaders and important figures sway public opinions and spark movements. Persuasive speech has been there to raise awareness about a specific issue (e.g., labor rights, gender equality). People have been using such speeches to establish authority, negotiate, and, ultimately, urge the audience to join their side.

Persusaisve speech example as speaker passes enthusiasm to audience

What Are Some Examples Of A Persuasive Speech Topic?

There’s a wide range of good persuasive speech topics . To give you an idea, here’s a list of persuasive speech topics:

Social media is taking a toll on young people’s mental health
Cell phones and too much screen time are making people lazier
Violent video games make people more aggressive
Why authorities must ban fast food for children
Schools and workplaces should take more action to curb obesity rates
Why public schools are better than private ones
College athletes should undergo steroid tests
There’s more to high school and college students than their GPAs
Should award-giving bodies rely on the popular vote or the judges’ vote?
There’s a need to regulate the use of painkillers more heavily
Cloning must not be legalized
More government budget should be allocated to health care
Why businesses must invest in renewable energy
Should military units be allowed to use drones in warfare?
How freedom of religion is affecting society
Libraries are becoming obsolete: A step-by-step guide on keeping them alive
Should euthanasia be allowed in hospitals, clinical settings, and zoos?
Developing countries must increase their minimum wage
Global warming is getting more intense
The death penalty must be abolished

What Is An Example Of How Start Of A Persuasive Speech?

Persuasion is an art. And when you’re given the chance to make a persuasive speech, one of the first things you must do is to settle down with a thesis statement. Then, you must identify at least two main points, pre-empt counterarguments, and organize your thoughts with a ‌persuasive speech outline.

Remember that your opening (and closing) statements should be strong. Right at the start, you must captivate your audience’s attention. You can give an impactful factual statement or pose a question that challenges conventional views.

The success of a speech doesn’t only end with writing a persuasive one. You must also deliver it with impact. This means maintaining eye contact, keeping your posture open, and using a clear voice and an appropriate facial expression.

What Are The 3 Points To Persuasive Speech?

There are three pillars of a persuasive speech. First is ethos, which taps into the audience’s ethical beliefs. To convince them and establish your credibility, you must resonate with the morals they uphold.

The second one is pathos, which refers to the emotional appeal of your narrative. One approach is to share an anecdote that your audience can relate to. To effectively appeal to your audience’s emotions, you must also use language, tone, diction, and images to paint a better picture of your main point.

On other other hand, logos appeals to logic. This is why it’s important to pepper your speech with facts.

How Are Persuasive Speeches Used?

You may know persuasive speeches as those stirring speeches delivered by politicians and civil rights and business leaders. In reality, you yourself could be using it in everyday life.

There are different types of persuasive speeches. While some mobilize bigger movements, others only persuade a smaller audience or even just one person.

You can use it in a personal context . For example, you’re convincing your parent to extend your curfew or eat at a certain restaurant. In grander ways, you can also use it to advocate for social and political movements. If you’re in business, marketing, or sales, you can use persuasive speech to promote your brand and convince others to buy your product or service.

For example, a teen might try to persuade a parent to let them stay out beyond curfew, while a civil rights leader might use persuasion to encourage listeners to fight racism.

No matter the context of your speech, an effective persuasive speech can compel someone or a group of people to adopt a viewpoint, take a particular action, and change a behavior or belief.

Persuasive speech examples - persuade elderly parent

What Are Persuasive Speech Examples?

This AI-created speech about walking shows how a persuasive speech is laid out, using Monroe’s Motivated Sequence (i.e., attention, need, satisfaction, visualization, and call to action) to convey the message that walking can overcome the risks of modern life

The introduction sets up the speech:

“Let’s be honest, we lead an easy life: automatic dishwashers, riding lawnmowers, T.V. remote controls, automatic garage door openers, power screwdrivers, bread machines, electric pencil sharpeners… We live in a time-saving, energy-saving, convenient society. It’s a wonderful life. Or is it?”

Unfortunately, lack of exercise leads to health problems. Walking can overcome the effects of lack of exercise, lethargy, and poor diet. The body of the speech delves into this concept in detail and then concludes with a call to the audience to walk more.

AI pick up the pattern that many living persons have perfected over the year.

Maya Angelou, an American poet and civil rights activist, delivered this compelling poem as a persuasive speech . The performance concludes with this inspiring message about overcoming hardship and discrimination: “Leaving behind nights of terror and fear, I rise/ Into a daybreak that’s wondrously clear, I rise/ Bringing the gifts that my ancestors gave/ I am the dream and the hope of the slave/ I rise, I rise, I rise.”

What Are Some Historical Examples Of Persuasive Speech?

Maya Angelou is just one of the important figures who have delivered powerful speeches etched in history. These individuals have risen and relayed impactful messages, championing advocacies that would resonate with people during their time — and beyond.

Below are more moving examples of a persuasive speech:

The Gettysburg Address by Abraham Lincoln

Context: In November 1863, during the American Civil War, US President Abraham Lincoln delivered this speech in commemoration of the dedication of the Gettysburg National Ceremony (also known as the Soldiers’ National Ceremony).

Snippet: “Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battlefield of that war. We come to dedicate a portion of it as a final resting place for those who died here, that the nation might live. This we may, in all propriety, do.

“ But, in a larger sense, we can not dedicate, we can not consecrate, we can not hallow, this ground, The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have hallowed it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note nor long remember what we say here; while it can never forget what they did here.

“ It is rather for us, the living, we here be dedicated to the great task remaining before us that, from these honored dead, we take increased devotion to that cause for which they here, gave the last full measure of devotion that we here highly resolve these dead shall not have died in vain; that the nation, shall have a new birth of freedom, and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”

The Finest Hour by Winston Churchill

Context: In his nearly 40-minute long speech in June 1940, over a month since Winston Churchill became the British Prime Minister, he sparked hope that they could win the impending Battle of Britain during the Second World War.

Snippet: “What General Weygand called the Battle of France is over. I expect that the Battle of Britain is about to begin. Upon this battle depends the survival of Christian civilization. Upon it depends our own British life, and the long continuity of our institutions and our Empire. The whole fury and might of the enemy must very soon be turned on us. Hitler knows that he will have to break us in this Island or lose the war.

If we can stand up to him, all Europe may be free, and the life of the world may move forward into broad, sunlit uplands. But if we fail, then the whole world, including the United States, including all that we have known and cared for, will sink into the abyss of a new Dark Age made more sinister, and perhaps more protracted, by the lights of perverted science. Let us, therefore, brace ourselves to our duties, and so bear ourselves that, if the British Empire and its Commonwealth last for a thousand years, men will still say, ‘This was their finest hour.’”

I Have a Dream by Mary Wollstonecraft

Context: In her 1792 speech, the British writer and women’s rights advocate shared her dream — that a day will come when women will be treated as rational human beings.

Snippet: “These may be termed utopian dreams. – Thanks to that Being who impressed them on my soul, and gave me sufficient strength of mind to dare to exert my own reason, till, becoming dependent only on him for the support of my virtue, I view, with indignation, the mistaken notions that enslave my sex.

“ I love man as my fellow; but his scepter, real or usurped, extends not to me unless the reason of an individual demands my homage; and even then, the submission is to reason and not to man. In fact, the conduct of an accountable being must be regulated by the operations of its own reason; or on what foundation rests the throne of God?”

These snippets of their persuasive speech capture the very essence of this form of communication: to convince the audience through compelling and valid reasoning, evoking their feelings and moral principles, and motivating them to act and join a movement, big or small.

What is a Persuasive Speech?

A persuasive speech is a special kind of speech that aims to convince the audience to accept a specific viewpoint, take a particular action, or change their beliefs or behavior on a certain topic. The main goal of a persuasive speech is to persuade, influence, or motivate the listeners by presenting a strong argument supported by logic, evidence, and emotions to pursued them to get convinced about your topic.

A persuasive speech follows a structured format, including an introduction, body, and conclusion. In the introduction, the speaker grabs the audience’s attention, establishes credibility, and clearly states the main argument or idea. The body of the speech provides supporting evidence, examples, and logical reasoning to strengthen the central message.

This section may also address counterarguments and refute opposing viewpoints to strengthen the speaker’s position. Finally, the conclusion summarizes the key points and restates the main argument, leaving the audience with a memorable and persuasive closing statement.

It’s important to remember that it’s unrealistic to expect everyone in the audience to adopt the speaker’s viewpoint after a single speech instantly. In a democracy, everyone has the right to their own opinion. However, a persuasive speech aims for complete understanding and agreement from the speaker’s perspective within certain limits.

Components of a Persuasive Speech

A persuasive speech comprises essential components that aim to persuade the audience. These key components are Ethos, Logos, and Pathos; each plays a crucial role in crafting a compelling argument. Let’s explore the significance of each component in detail

Ethos: Ethos refers to the speaker’s credibility and trustworthiness. It involves showing expertise, knowledge, and authority on the persuasive topic. This can be achieved by presenting qualifications, personal experiences or citing credible sources. Establishing ethos helps build confidence and enhances the persuasive impact of the speech.
Logos: Logos employs logical reasoning and evidence to support the main argument. It involves presenting facts, statistics, expert opinions, and logical arguments. The use of logos appeals to rationality and intellect. Providing well-researched evidence and logical explanations strengthens the argument and convinces the audience of the viewpoint’s validity.
Pathos: Pathos aims to evoke emotions and establish a connection with the audience. It involves the use of storytelling, vivid descriptions, and emotional language. Pathos appeals to feelings, values, and empathy. By tapping into the audience’s emotions, Pathos helps create an emotional bond, making the argument more relatable and persuasive. This emotional connection can influence attitudes, beliefs, and actions.

Ethos, Logos, and Pathos form a powerful trio in a persuasive speech topic when effectively combined. Ethos establishes credibility, Logos provides logical reasoning and evidence, whereas Pathos appeals to emotions. By incorporating these components, speakers can create a persuasive argument that resonates with the audience and increases the likelihood of achieving the desired outcome.

Importance of Persuasive Speeches for Students

Persuasive speeches are highly important for students as they offer valuable skills and benefits. Firstly, they help students develop strong communication skills, enabling them to express their thoughts and ideas effectively. By crafting persuasive speeches, students learn to organize their arguments, choose compelling language, and engage their audience. These skills are not only valuable in your academic carrier but also help you in your personal and professional life.

Furthermore, persuasive speeches promote critical thinking among students. Researching the topic, gathering evidence, and analyzing different perspectives enable students to think critically and evaluate information. They learn to anticipate counterarguments and present well-reasoned viewpoints, enhancing their ability to think logically and make informed decisions.

Key Elements of a Persuasive Speech Writing

3 Types of Persuasive Speech Topics

1. factual persuasive speech: .

Factual persuasive speeches involve presenting information and evidence to convince the audience about specific persuasive topics or points of view. These speeches rely on facts, statistics, research findings, and expert opinions to support the speaker’s argument. The goal is to present a compelling case based on objective evidence and logical reasoning. Factual persuasive speeches are effective when the speaker needs to educate the audience, debunk myths, or raise awareness about important issues.

2. Policy Persuasive Speech:

Policy persuasive speeches focus on advocating for specific actions or changes in policies, laws, or regulations. These speeches aim to persuade the audience to support a particular course of action or influence decision-makers to implement a specific policy. Persuasive policy speech topics require a thorough understanding of the issue, including its implications, potential benefits, and possible drawbacks. Presenting a well-reasoned argument and proposing practical solutions are essential in this type of persuasive speech ideas.

3. Value Persuasive Speech:

Value persuasive speeches aim to persuade the audience to adopt or embrace a particular set of values, beliefs, or moral principles. These speeches tap into persuasion’s emotional and ethical aspects, appealing to the audience’s sense of right and wrong, justice, or personal convictions. Value persuasive speeches often touch upon sensitive and controversial topics, such as social justice, environmental ethics, or personal integrity. They require the speaker to deeply connect with the audience, employing storytelling, personal anecdotes, and compelling arguments to sway their values and beliefs on persuasive topics.

What Makes Good Persuasive Speech Topics?

Good topics for persuasive speeches possess several key qualities that make them engaging, impactful, and compelling to the audience. Here are three cost effective essential aspects to consider when choosing topics for a persuasive speech:

1. Simple and Easy Topic:

Good persuasive speech topics should be simple and easy to understand for both the speaker and the audience. It should be accessible to many people, regardless of background or expertise. By choosing a straightforward and uncomplicated persuasive topic, the speaker can effectively convey their message and ensure the audience can easily grasp the main points. This simplicity facilitates clarity and encourages active engagement from the listeners.

2. New Topic:

The interesting persuasive speech topics should be new and current, addressing the pressing issues and trends of the time. By selecting a relevant and up-to-date topic, the speaker can capture the audience’s attention and demonstrate the significance of the subject matter. New persuasive topics are more likely to resonate with the audience and generate a sense of relevance and urgency. They allow the speaker to tap into the listeners’ collective consciousness, fostering a connection and a sense of shared importance.

3. Interesting Topic:

The best persuasive speech topics should be interesting and captivating to both the speaker and the audience. It should pique curiosity, spark discussions, and evoke emotions. Choosing inherently interesting persuasive speech topics for the speaker will enhance their enthusiasm and passion, which will be conveyed to the audience. Interesting persuasive topics for speech often challenge conventional thinking, present unique perspectives, or shed light on lesser-known aspects of a subject. They encourage active participation and inspire the audience to think critically and engage with the speech more deeply.

How to Choose a Persuasive Speech Topic?

Choosing good topics for a persuasive speech is crucial for persuasive speech ideas that captivate your audience. Follow these steps to choose a persuasive speech topic that is engaging and impactful:

Identify your interests: Start by considering persuasive topics that genuinely interest you. It’s easier to speak passionately and persuasively about subjects you are personally devoted to.
Research current issues: Stay updated on current events and trending persuasive topics. Look for pressing issues that spark debates or controversies. These topics will likely engage your audience and make your speech more relevant.
Consider your audience: Understand your audience’s demographics, interests, and concerns. Tailor your persuasive topic to resonate with their needs and perspectives. It will also help you connect with them on a deeper level.
Brainstorm ideas: Generate a list of potential persuasive speech topics based on your interests and the needs of your audience. Don’t limit yourself at this stage; let your creativity flow freely.
Evaluate the feasibility: Assess the feasibility of each good persuasive topic by considering the availability of credible sources, relevant data, and supporting evidence. Ensure that you can gather enough information to support your arguments effectively.
Narrow down your options: Review your list and prioritize the topics for persuasive speech that align with your interests, audience, and feasibility criteria. Choose the most compelling and well-rounded options.
Test for significance and impact: Ask yourself if the chosen persuasive topics for speech have the potential to make a meaningful impact or persuade others. Consider the importance and relevance of each topic in the context of the current social, political, or environmental landscape.
Choose the final topic: Based on the previous steps, select the persuasive speech topic that ticks all the boxes: it aligns with your interests, resonates with your audience, is well-researched, and carries significance and impact.

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 in Arts

Importance of performing arts for holistic development
Should art be a compulsory discipline?
Graffiti: Art or Nuisance
Importance of art and culture
Should performing arts be made credit based
Museums are the dying reservoir of arts and culture
Entry to museums should be free
Schools should host annual arts festivals
The slow death of ancient art forms
Modern art lacks authenticity

Best Persuasive Speech Topics for High School Students:

The importance of volunteering in your community
The benefits of implementing mindfulness exercises in schools
Why high school students should learn financial literacy
The need for comprehensive sex education in schools
The importance of promoting mental health awareness among teenagers

Best Persuasive Speech Topics for College Students:

The advantages of studying abroad during college
The impact of technology on higher education
The benefits of participating in internships during college
Why college students should engage in extracurricular activities
The importance of developing critical thinking skills in college
Emerging Technologies: Blockchain, AI, and Their Societal Impact
Global Health Issues: Strategies for Pandemic Preparedness
Cultural Diversity and Inclusion in the Modern World
Ethical Implications of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics
Space Exploration: Benefits and Risks for Humanity
The Future of Work: Gig Economy and Remote Working Trends
Sustainable Practices in Food Production and Consumption
The Role of Youth in Shaping Political Landscapes
The Impact of Globalization on Local Cultures and Economies
Mental Health Awareness in a Digital Age

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 on Academics

Books are the only source of learning
Computer-based learning is the most effective
Gamification and virtual reality are the future of education
MCQs are better than essay tests
Extracurriculars are a waste of time
Only main papers should be considered for grading
Academics are the only criteria for individual success
Rote learning is the best way to get good grades
Conceptual clarity beats rote learning
Sports can boost learning effectiveness

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 on the Economy

Brexit will fuel the UK economy
There should be no minimum wage
Political unrest decelerates economic growth
Economics as a discipline must be mandatory
The economic growth of China is a model to follow
Free trade agreements are bad for labor
The economy is defined by a few rich industrialists
Foreign labor slows down the economy
Import duty should be removed
Exports boost economic growth

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 on Entertainment

Reality shows are a source of exploitation
Reality shows are anything but real
Media has a negative influence on teenagers
Media influences political decisions
TV shows influence human behavior
TV shows reflect the society around
Reality shows reduce human IQ
TV shows are a great source of motivation
Reality shows are scripted
Reality shows dilute important topics of discussion

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 on Ethics

Juvenile delinquency is acceptable
Prostitution should be legal
Underage driving should be punishable by law
Beauty pageants for children should be banned
Prisoner’s right to vote
Voting rights should not be universal
Guns should be banned from college campuses
The death penalty should be abolished
Substance abuse is a cause of social evils
Underage alcohol consumption should lead to prison time

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 on Environment

There should be strict penalties to protect endangered species
Environmental pollution is a global concern
Developed nations are to blame for global warming
The greenhouse effect threatens human existence
Limiting the use of natural resources and fossil fuels
A complete switch to renewable energy is the way to go
Using plastic is self-defeating
Humans are to blame for environmental degradation
Carpooling can save the environment
Noise pollution is detrimental to human development

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 on Fashion

Men shouldn’t wear pink
Eco-fashion is the future
Fashion reveals the true identity
Sustainable clothing is the way to go
Clothes define a person
Jewelry defines your worth
Fashion is an important part of society
Certain fashion brands have a negative influence on society
The fashion industry has the greatest influence on teenagers
Celebrity-endorsed fashion brands are the best

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 on Motivation

Following dreams is hard
Goal setting is important for success
Overcoming stage fright is crucial for success
Importance of creating a positive vibe
Sustainable living is a source of motivation
Happiness can be measured
Personal experience is more important than rote learning
Exposure to violence leads to demotivation
Video games increase motivation
Motivating teamwork and cooperation

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 on Travel

Airline tickets should be cheaper
Travel brings new experiences
Travel makes you more inclusive
Eco-tourism is important for sustainable development
Flying first class is a once-in-a-lifetime experience
Traveling in a guided group is monotonous
Solo travel allows the best way to self-exploration
Antarctica should not be open to tourists
Environmentally endangered sites should not allow tourism
Tourism boosts the local economy

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 on Technology

Google is the death of libraries
Social media is an end of face-to-face conversations
AI is the future of technology
Technology is changing our lives
Limiting screen time for adults
Government should regulate internet usage
Technology has made life better
Internet chat rooms are not safe
Humans are addicted to technology
Internet fraud awareness: Must for cybersecurity

Good Persuasive Speech Topics on Family:

The benefits of family meals and regular family time
The importance of open communication within families
The impact of divorce on children and ways to support them
The benefits of spending quality time with grandparents
The role of parental involvement in a child’s education

Good Persuasive Speech Topics on Social Media:

The need to practice responsible social media usage
The impact of social media on mental health and self-esteem
The benefits of using social media for networking and professional development
The importance of digital literacy and online safety education
The role of social media in promoting social and political activism

Good Persuasive Speech Topics on Education:

The importance of arts education in schools
The benefits of personalized learning approaches
The need for inclusive education and accommodating diverse learning styles
The impact of standardized testing on students and alternative assessment methods
The benefits of early childhood education and its long-term effects

Good Persuasive Speech Topics on Sports:

The benefits of participating in team sports for physical and mental health
The importance of gender equality in sports
The impact of sports on character development and leadership skills
The benefits of including adaptive sports programs for individuals with disabilities
The role of sports in fostering community and promoting social integration

Good Persuasive Speech Topics on Politics and Government:

The importance of voting and civic participation in a democratic society
The impact of climate change policies on future generations
The need for stricter gun control laws to ensure public safety
The benefits of implementing universal healthcare
The importance of promoting diversity and inclusivity in political representation

Best Tips for Writing a Persuasive Speech

Understand your audience: Research and analyze your audience’s demographics, beliefs, values, and knowledge of good persuasive topics. It will also help you tailor your arguments and appeals to resonate with them.
Choose a compelling topic: Select persuasive topics that are interesting, relevant, and align with your audience’s interests and concerns. Also, make sure you are passionate about it and can effectively argue for or against it.
Conduct thorough research on your chosen topic: Gather credible and up-to-date information from reliable sources to support your arguments. You can also use sources such as books, articles, studies, and expert opinions to strengthen your speech.
Develop a clear thesis statement: Craft a concise and powerful thesis statement that clearly states your position on the topic. This will serve as the main focus of your speech and guide your arguments.
Structure your speech: Organize your persuasive speech ideas into an introduction, body, and conclusion. Start with a captivating opening to grab your audience’s attention, present your arguments logically and coherently in the body, and end with a solid and memorable conclusion.
Use persuasive techniques: Incorporate rhetorical devices, such as ethos (credibility), pathos (emotions), and logos (logic), to appeal to your audience’s emotions, intellect, and sense of credibility. You can also use storytelling, examples, statistics, and quotes to make your arguments more compelling.
Anticipate counterarguments: Address potential counterarguments and provide counterpoints to strengthen your position. Consider opposing viewpoints and refute them with solid evidence and reasoning.
Engage your audience: Use engaging language, vocal variety, and body language to keep your audience interested and attentive. Encourage interaction through questions, rhetorical prompts, or audience participation.
Rehearse and revise: Practice your speech several times to improve your delivery and ensure smooth transitions. Revise and refine your content, eliminating unnecessary information or weak arguments.
Conclude with a call to action: End your speech with a clear call to action, urging your audience to take a specific step or adopt your viewpoint. Motivate them to act upon your persuasive message by leaving a lasting impression.

For further enhancement of your persuasive speech, consider enlisting the assistance of a reputable speech writing service . Speech writers will help you refine your arguments, structure your speech effectively, and ensure your message resonates with the audience. Investing in professional speech writing greatly elevates the impact and effectiveness of your persuasive speeches as a student.

Final Verdicts on Good Persuasive Speech Topics

Choosing the best persuasive speech topics is essential for delivering impactful speeches in 2023. By exploring this blog’s discussed components, types, and tips, you can effectively engage your audience and make a meaningful impact. Remember to strike a balance between logical appeals and emotional connections to captivate your listeners.

If you find yourself in need of assistance in crafting a persuasive speech that hits the mark, consider seeking help from TutorBin. With a network of subject matter experts, we offer support in refining your arguments, structuring your speech, and engaging your audience effectively. Their expertise can provide valuable guidance, helping you deliver a compelling and persuasive presentation.

Embrace the power of persuasion, choose your persuasive topic wisely, and captivate your audience with amazing speeches in 2023. Make a difference with your persuasive voice and leave a lasting impact.

Most Popular FAQs on Persuasive Speech Topics!

How do i choose a persuasive speech topic .

Choosing persuasive speech topics involves considering your personal interests, researching current issues, and understanding your audience. It’s essential to select persuasive topics that you are passionate about and that resonate with your audience. Additionally, staying updated on current events and trends can help you identify relevant and impactful topics.

How do I make my persuasive speech engaging?

To make your persuasive speech engaging, you can incorporate storytelling techniques, use visual aids, and involve the audience through interactive elements. Balancing logical appeals with emotional connections can help capture the audience’s attention and keep them invested in your speech.

Can I get help with writing a persuasive speech?

Yes, you can seek help with writing a persuasive speech. Online homework help websites like TutorBin offer assistance from expert writers who can guide you in developing persuasive arguments, structuring your speech, and engaging your audience effectively. They can also help you refine your ideas, improve your delivery, and make your speech more impactful.

What are some good persuasive speech topics?

Climate change: Addressing the urgency of reducing carbon emissions and adopting sustainable practices.
Cyberbullying: Raising awareness about the impact of online harassment and promoting digital empathy.
Voting rights: Advocating for equal access to voting and the importance of civic engagement.
Mental health stigma: Breaking down stereotypes and promoting understanding and support for mental health issues.
Gender equality: Highlighting the importance of equal opportunities and challenging gender stereotypes.

What are the best examples of a persuasive speech topic?

The benefits of adopting a plant-based diet for personal health and the environment.
The need for stricter gun control laws to reduce gun violence in society.
The importance of early childhood education in setting a solid foundation for future success.
The impact of social media on mental health and the need for responsible usage.
The benefits of renewable energy sources in mitigating climate change and creating a sustainable future.

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January 4, 2024

Can't find what you're looking for?

700+ Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics to Wow Your Audiences

The hardest part of speeches is to decide on the topic! The most comprehensive list of persuasive speech topics is here! Choose your topic and let Decktopus create a presentation based on this topic.

What's Inside?

What is a persuasive speech?

Before talking more in-depth, we need to understand what a persuasive speech is. A persuasive speech is a type of speech where the speaker aims to convince or persuade the audience. The aim is to adopt, accept, or change beliefs about a particular viewpoint or take an action. The ultimate goal is to influence the audience's attitudes, behaviors, or opinions on a specific topic.

The Structure of a Persuasive Speech

A persuasive speech includes arguments, evidence supporting the arguments, and examples.It often includes an introduction to the topic, the body with main points and supporting details, and a conclusion that reinforces the key message.

Introduction: In the introduction, the speaker should introduce themselves and their credibility about this topic. After introducing yourself, give your thesis statement in a way that will grab the audience’s attention and show your expertise on the topic. In the end, state the main argument or the idea of the speech.
Body: In the body part, the ideas introduced in the introduction should be supported. This part should include supporting evidence and examples. The listeners should be able to understand the logical reasoning behind your argument. Thus, you may also mention the counterarguments and your position against them.
Conclusion: In the last part, as in the conclusion, key points should be summarized, the main argument should be concluded, and a memorable closing statement should be given. In the end, the main aim is to leave audiences as persuaded!

Persuasive Speech vs. Informative Speech

A persuasive speech is different from an informative speech. In an informative speech, the goal is to give information about a specific topic. Whereas in a persuasive speech, the speaker presents a conflict and favors a side of their speech.

How to Deliver a Persuasive Speech

Tips and tricks to wow your audience, 1. decktopus.

Every speech needs powerful visuals! Decktopus can create your speech and turn it into a presentation simultaneously! Decktopus is a one-click solution for your persuasive speech!

Decktopus is an AI-powered presentation tool with multiple features. With its easy-to-use interface, all you have to do is answer five basic questions! After, a slide ready to present will be ready for you! This slide will include necessary information about your topic, images, logos, graphs, and titles!

To create an AI-powered slide in Decktopus, all you have to do is follow these 3 steps:

Go to Decktopus . Sign in to Decktopus with your e-mail or Google account. On the Dashboard, you can choose to create your slide from scratch, create with a template, or create with AI. Click on the “Create with AI” option.

Try Decktopus AI now!

Follow the instructions by Decky! Answer the four questions with the help of our trusted AI. These questions are:

What is your presentation about?

Who is your audience?

What is the aim of this deck?

Which template would you like to use?

Enter your persuasive speech topic, and let Decktopus create a powerful presentation for you!

Now, you have a slide ready! You can present it immediately, or you can make adjustments on Decktopus !

You can change the template, titles, texts, fonts, colors, images, graphs, or positions of the elements! Everything is possible!

2. Choose the Right Topic

Choosing the appropriate topic is one of the most important parts of persuasive speeches. You should consider your interest and your audience's interest as well!

Think about a topic that you will enjoy when preparing for the speech and also presenting it. You will focus and research this topic for hours! So, choose what you are passionate about!

Also, consider your audience! Think about your audience's thoughts about the specific topic. Try to come up with an interesting but not strongly opposed topic!

3. Organize Your Speech Carefully

The format of your speech is as important as its content! Try to divide your speech into separate parts. Your speech should move smoothly from one part to another. This will captivate your audience and keep their attention! You may also consider creating an outline for this purpose.

List of Good Persuasive Speech Topics

In this blog, we combined a long list of persuasive speech topics divided into categories. Choose your topic carefully! After that, visit Decktopus 's website and create the best presentation for your speech!

Persuasive Speech Topics about Arts, Humanities and Culture

Should tattoos still be considered “unprofessional”?
Importance of performing arts for holistic development
Graffiti: Art or Nuisance
Importance of art and culture
Museums are the dying reservoir of arts and culture
Entry to museums should be free
The slow death of ancient art forms
Modern art lacks authenticity
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?
Should graffiti be considered art?
Should all national museums be free to citizens?
Should an artist comply with the rules set by society while working on a project?
Funding the Arts: Investing in Creativity as a Public Good
Art Censorship: Where Should We Draw the Line?
The Role of Public Art in Community Engagement

Best Literature and Movies Persuasive Speech Topics

Should offensive language be censored from classic literary works?
Should we keep reading classic literature that is offensive?
Can a movie persuade you with something you don’t believe in?
Is creating films and documentaries about criminals glorifying them and inspiring some to become criminals themselves?
Should there be a distinction between ‘high’ and ‘low’ literature?
Are libraries becoming obsolete?
Do romantic movies and books glorify an unrealistic idea of love and lead to heartbreak?
Books are the only source of learning
Who is a hero? What are the “heroic” qualities?
Living underwater: A reality or science fiction?

Psychology and Mental Health Persuasive Speech Topics

Is music therapy effective?
Does watching TV shows or movies about teenage suicide encourage it or prevent it?
Simple ways to overcome stress.
Should art and music therapy be covered by health insurance?
Should art and music therapy be prioritized over traditional talk therapy?
How can writing a journal help you become a better person?
Does watching reality television affect people’s mental health?
Can action movies cause unwanted stress?
Reality shows affect people’s mental health.
Reading inspirational and humorous quotes improves your mood
Can child abuse and traumas lead to future mental disorders?
Can family history make children more prone to stress and anxiety?
Personality disorders among teens. Are they easy to identify?
How our differences make us unique
Is empathy better for our social relationships?
Learning from your mistakes
Social media affects people’s self-image and self-confidence
Phobias of children, teens, and adults. What are the similarities and differences?
When is it right to give children medications to overcome mental issues?
Suicide among teenagers. Is the media affecting it?
Studying psychology stresses students.
Peer pressure is the cause of a lot of mental problems during the teenage years.
The Necessity of Mental Health Education in High Schools
Workplace Mental Health: Employer Responsibilities
Social Media's Role in Adolescent Mental Health
De-stigmatizing Mental Health in Sports Culture
Mental Health First Aid: As Crucial as Physical First Aid?
The Impact of Sleep on College Students' Mental Health
Access to Mental Health Services for the Homeless
The Correlation Between Creativity and Mental Health
Mental Health Screenings as a Standard in Annual Physicals
The Role of Nutrition in Mental Well-being

Motivation and Self-Growth

Following dreams is hard
Goal setting is important for success
Overcoming stage fright is crucial for success
Importance of creating a positive vibe
Sustainable living is a source of motivation
Happiness can be measured
Personal experience is more important than rote learning
Exposure to violence leads to demotivation
Video games increase motivation

Persuasive Speech Topics about Travel

Airline tickets should be cheaper
Travel brings new experiences
Travel makes you more inclusive
Eco-tourism is important for sustainable development
Flying first class is a once-in-a-lifetime experience
Traveling in a guided group is monotonous
Traveling and studying abroad are positive experiences.
Solo travel allows the best way to self-exploration
Antarctica should not be open to tourists
Environmentally endangered sites should not allow tourism
Tourism boosts the local economy

School Policies and Education System

Should schools place greater emphasis on the arts programs?
Should all schools have mandatory art or music courses in their curriculum?
Schools should host annual arts festivals
Should performing arts be made credit-based?
Should art be a compulsory discipline?
Should art classes be mandatory for all students?
Should all students be required to learn an instrument in school?
Should classes about mental health and wellness be added to the school curriculum?
At what age or grade should sex education be taught in schools?
Should school funding be dependent on taxes of district residents, or should all schools receive an equal amount of funding from the state?
What are the benefits of year-round schools?
Are charter schools hurting or helping low-income communities?
Is homeschooling beneficial or harmful to children?
Should students on the Autism spectrum be integrated into regular classrooms?
What should be the qualifications for books to be banned from schools?
Are grades an accurate representation of learning?
Should we switch to the metric system?
What are the benefits of making preschool free to all families?
Is forcing students to say the Pledge a violation of their right to freedom of speech?
Should we ban certain books from school libraries?
Should we remove historical figures who owned slaves and support slavery from school textbooks and other educational materials?
The Importance of Cultural Exchange Programs in Education
Should bullies in schools be expelled?
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 boys and girls be taught in separate classrooms?
Should grades in gym class have an effect on a student’s GPA?
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 elementary schools teach at least one foreign language?
Should schools still teach cursive handwriting?
What are the best ways for schools to stop bullying?
Should post-secondary education be free?
Should programming and coding be introduced to young students?
Should school lunches be free?
Does the education system prepare students for adult life?
Should gyms be mandatory for all students?
Do schools need to do a better job of 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?
Should schools have longer recess time?
Should schools make swimming lessons mandatory?
Proper research is needed to write a short essay.
High-school and middle-school students should be trained to do presentations.
Improving students’ presentation skills
Should uniforms be obligatory in schools?
Should there be separate classrooms for boys and girls?
Students sent to boarding schools: A responsibility and a risk
Does homework fulfill its purpose, or is it just a burden for students?
The positive possible effect of spending a year as an exchange student
Cell phones shouldn’t be allowed in schools
Taking a year off school. Can it help you?
Hilarious games in the class can help shy students get along with others
A student’s grade: Is it a fair method of evaluation?

High Schools

Should school districts offer bilingual education programs for non-native speakers?
Should schools do away with their physical education requirements?
Would trade schools and other forms of vocational training benefit a greater number of students than traditional institutions of higher education?
Should taking a year off between high school and college be mandatory?
Should high schools mandate a certain number of volunteer hours for students?
Should schools incorporate a remote learning option into their curriculum?
What is the most important book every high school student in America should read?
What are the benefits of teaching art and music classes in high school?
How can sex education be taught more effectively?
Should advanced math classes in high school be replaced with more practical courses on financial literacy and understanding taxes?
The importance of volunteering in your community
The benefits of implementing mindfulness exercises in schools
Why high school students should learn financial literacy
Should school uniforms be mandatory in all high schools?
The need for comprehensive sex education in schools
Extracurriculars are a waste of time
The importance of promoting mental health awareness among teenagers
Is there any benefit or relevance to teaching Shakespeare to high school students?
Is it fair to take cell phones away from kids in middle/high school while they are in class?
Should schools prohibit the use of cell phones on school grounds?
Should independent learning be offered as a larger option in high school?

College and Career

Should the cost of college be reduced?
Are income-share agreements better for students than taking out student loans?
Should college athletes be paid like professional athletes are?
Are same-sex colleges beneficial or antiquated?
Should everyone go to college?
What are the benefits of taking a gap year before starting college?
Would removing tenure and job protection from professors improve or reduce the quality of higher education?
Has the traditional college model become outdated in the age of the Internet?
Should you pursue a career based on your passions or a career based on earning potential?
Should colleges use standardized testing in their admissions processes?
The advantages of studying abroad during college
The impact of technology on higher education
The benefits of participating in internships during college
Why college students should engage in extracurricular activities
The importance of developing critical thinking skills in college
Should Greek life at colleges be abolished?
Do frats and sororities actually serve their purpose?
Is college/university necessary anymore?
Computer-based learning is the most effective.
Gamification and virtual reality are the future of education
MCQs are better than essay tests
Only main papers should be considered for grading
Academics are the only criteria for individual success
Rote learning is the best way to get good grades
Conceptual clarity beats rote learning

Good Persuasive Speech Topics about Music

Why guitar music is superior to everything else
Metal is modern classical music, and you don’t know it
Why music makes everything we do easier
Music is becoming more repetitive, here’s how
Is modern music really worse than older music?
Are biographical movies of deceased musicians and artists ethical?
Digital music should be free to download and listen
Song lyrics affect our lives in a number of ways
Should online music be free of charge?
Lyrics in a song can impact our lives.

Persuasive Speech Topics about the Fashion Industry

Pop fashion is getting influenced more and more by alternative subcultures
Clothes don’t define a person, but they help people look at you differently
How fashion trends differ from one culture to another
You can’t buy fashion taste no matter how rich you are
Why are women the leaders in the fashion industry?
Men shouldn’t wear pink.
Eco-fashion is the future.
Fashion reveals the true identity
Sustainable clothing is the way to go
Clothes define a person
Jewelry defines your worth
Fashion is an important part of society
Certain fashion brands have a negative influence on society
The fashion industry has the greatest influence on teenagers
Celebrity-endorsed fashion brands are the best
Why are skinny jeans for men even a thing?

Government Politics and Society

Should voting become mandatory?
The world needs younger politicians, not 70-year-olds
What could politicians do to appeal to younger generations of voters?
Should prisoners have the right to vote?
Would it be better in the U.S. if elected politicians were younger?
Should the police use rubber bullets instead of real bullets?
Are private, for-profit prisons a threat to prisoners’ rights?
Should U.S. military funding be increased or decreased?
Should there be stricter or looser restrictions to qualify for welfare assistance?
Is our current two-party political system good enough or in need of replacing?
Should major corporations be eligible for tax breaks?
How can the current policy on undocumented immigrants in America be improved?
Should it be illegal for politicians to receive donations from large corporations?
Should undocumented immigrants have the same employment and education opportunities as citizens?
Should there be a penalty for people who don’t vote?
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 prisoners be allowed to vote?
Should the government raise or lower the retirement age?
Can the government promote non-college education for a higher income?
The problem of spending on biological weapons
Is the government really taking the right steps to eliminate cultural sensitivity?
To vote or not to vote: A question asked by a lot of people
Obesity in children is related to living a fast-paced life. What is the role of the government?
Getting a driving license: Is one test per lifetime enough?
Should smokers pay a health tax?
Is the government spending too much on the military sector?
Should the government run a campaign to promote cultural diversity and tolerance?
Should the government be able to control the population?

Persuasive Speech Topics about Ethics

Is the death penalty ethical?
Juvenile delinquency is acceptable.
Prostitution should be legal.
Underage driving should be punishable by law
Beauty pageants for children should be banned
Prisoner’s right to vote
Doctor-assisted suicide should be legal.
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 wearing fur unethical?
Should prostitution be legalized?
What is the solution for the mistreatment of farm and circus animals?
Should guns be allowed on college campuses?
Should terminally ill individuals have access to Euthanasia?
Should people be required to shovel snow from the sidewalks in front of their houses?
Should product testing on animals be required?
Should white supremacist groups be allowed to hold rallies in public places?
Should ethics be taught as a mandatory high school class?
Should beauty pageants for children be banned?
Do parents deceive children by telling them about Santa Claus?
Is it ethical to allow performance-enhancing drugs in sports?
Voting rights should not be universal
Guns should be banned from college campuses
The death penalty should be abolished
Substance abuse is a cause of social evils
Underage alcohol consumption should lead to prison time
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?
Is it ethical to create artificial life forms that are capable of complex emotions?
Racism will always exist no matter how hard we try

Social Issues

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 all public restrooms be all-gender?
Should the national drinking age be lowered?
Should paparazzi be banned and unable to sell their photos?
Should tattoos be regarded as “professional dress” for work?

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?
Media has a negative influence on teenagers
Media influences political decisions
The impact of social media on mental health and self-esteem
The benefits of using social media for networking and professional development
The importance of digital literacy and online safety education
The role of social media in promoting social and political activism
The need to practice responsible social media usage
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?

Entertainment (TV Shows, Video Games, and More)

Reality shows are a source of exploitation
Reality shows are anything but real
Reality shows are scripted
Reality shows dilute important topics of discussion
TV shows influence human behavior
TV shows reflect the society around
Reality shows reduce human IQ
TV shows are a great source of motivation
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?
Should video games be considered a high form of entertainment?
Do violent video games encourage players to become violent in real life?
Are paper books better than e-books?
Video games cause a lot of stress.
People who spend their time playing video games are more prone to depression.
Video games can enhance people’s brain and muscle coordination
Children who play video games have faster responses
How will gaming look ten years from now?
Virtual reality affects people’s perception.
Living without computers is impossible.
A video game can be the easiest way to teach kids.
Watching people playing video games is as fun as watching real sports like football matches.
Will playing video games cause behavior problems?
The gaming industry is affecting every aspect of our lives
Video games are not popular among kids only
Playing video games with random people online
Can video games improve problem-solving skills?

Environment and Conservation

Should fuel-run vehicles be banned?
How does it benefit nature to reduce human paper consumption?
What is the biggest current threat to the environment, and how would you suggest we remedy it?
Should disposable diapers be banned?
Environmental pollution is a global concern.
Developed nations are to blame for global warming
The greenhouse effect threatens human existence
Limiting the use of natural resources and fossil fuels
Should fracking be legal?
A complete switch to renewable energy is the way to go
Using plastic is self-defeating
Humans are to blame for environmental degradation
What is the best type of renewable energy?
Should plastic bags be banned in grocery stores?
Carpooling can save the environment.
Noise pollution is detrimental to human development
More political and legal measures should be taken to protect the environment
Businesses have a serious obligation to protect the environment
There should be a strict policy against polluting the ocean
Should there be government policies against the use of disposable diapers?
Recycling paper is going to save our planet
Are we taking the right measures to get over the global warming issue?
The Case for a Four-Day Workweek to Reduce Carbon Emissions
Why Every Neighborhood Should Have a Community Garden
Banning Plastic Straws: Just the Tip of the Environmental Iceberg
The Impact of Fast Fashion on Our Planet
Should Public Transit Be Free to Combat Climate Change?
The Role of Personal Responsibility in Global Waste Reduction
The Environmental Cost of Cryptocurrency Mining
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?
Should offshore drilling be allowed in protected marine areas?

Conservation of Animals and Animal Rights

Should it be okay to own exotic animals as pets?
Should hunting be made illegal?
Keeping an animal away from its home will affect the environmental balance
Should animal testing be illegal?
Should people be allowed to own pit bulls?
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 puppy mills be banned?
Should zoos and animal theme parks (such as SeaWorld) be closed?
There should be strict penalties to protect endangered species
Urban Beekeeping: A Solution to Declining Bee Populations
What is better: Buying pets or Adoption?
Why is Elephant riding unethical?
Should there be a ban on animal testing?
Testing products on animals: is it ethical or not?
Is it right to keep animals in zoos?
Should we use products made with animal fur?
Euthanizing stray animals: is it ethical?
Can a companion or service animal change someone’s life?
Is it rational to be scared of harmless yet frightening or unusual animals?
Keeping wild and exotic pets away from their natural habitat. Is it ethical?
Should we spay pets to control their overpopulation?
Keeping uncommon animals at home. Is it good for them?
Ten ways we can help animals live better

Great Persuasive Speech Topics about Family

Should children have the right to virtual and physical privacy from their parents?
“It takes a village to raise a child.” How important is a community in raising children?
Should we require parents to vaccinate their children?
Should we require companies to give mandatory paternal and maternal leave?
Is it better for a young child to attend daycare or stay home with a parent?
Should children be told to believe in Santa Claus and the Tooth Fairy?
Should the government limit how many children a couple can have?
Is spanking children an acceptable form of discipline?
The benefits of family meals and regular family time
The importance of open communication within families
The impact of divorce on children and ways to support them
The benefits of spending quality time with grandparents
The role of parental involvement in a child’s education
Nature vs. nurture—which is the most powerful influence on a person’s character?
Should parents have to give approval in order for their minor children to receive birth control?
How does learning about family ancestors impact you in the present and future?
Should parents teach their kids about sex, or is it the responsibility of the school system?
What is the most beneficial parenting style, and why?
How to run a business with your family?
Should children and teens be worried more about their privacy or safety?
Can video games be used in educating children and teens?
Having an older/younger sibling. The perks and the challenges
Is internet censorship for kids a must?
Children will still read books if they are interesting enough
The Benefits of Family Game Night on Child Development
Should Parents Limit Screen Time or Control Content?
The Importance of Teaching Financial Literacy at Home
Family Meals: A Solution to Better Communication and Health
The Role of Grandparents in Modern Family Structures
Balancing Work and Family: A Modern Dilemma
Encouraging Children to Participate in Household Chores

Persuasive Speech Topics about Religion

Should cults receive protection under freedom of religion?
What are the benefits of belonging to a religious community?
Should parents force their children to go to church or let them decide for themselves?
Studying religion is a motivational act
Awesome stories about the ancient gods and goddesses
Should the religious slaughter of animals be banned?
How to overcome conflicts and arguments between people who believe in different religions?
Should the argument that God exists be discussed in a classroom?
Emotional stories from the Bible can help people renew their belief
New age spirituality: A fact or a myth
Current vs. ancient interpretations of the Bible
Children should be allowed to choose their religion
Should religious organizations be required to pay taxes?
Is atheism a problem of the 21st century?
Should religion be taught as a high school subject?
Should the Church of Scientology be exempt from paying taxes?
Should religious leaders be involved in politics?
Should priests be allowed to get married?
Should women be allowed to be priests?
Should public prayer be allowed in schools?
Should countries be allowed to only accept refugees with certain religious beliefs?
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?

Science and Technology

Should we allow parents to choose their children’s physical attributes through genetic engineering?
Will robots reduce or increase human employment opportunities?
Does technology make kids lazy?
What age should children be allowed to have a cell phone?
Does electronic use make people less creative?
Is Net Neutrality a good thing or a bad thing?
Should human cloning be allowed?
Should self-driving cars be legal?
Should genetically modified foods be sold in grocery stores?
Should parents be allowed to choose the sex of their unborn children?
Should vaccinations be required for students to attend public school?
Should the US government increase NASA's budget?
Should Pluto still be considered a planet?
Are search engines replacing libraries?
Should all new buildings be energy efficient?
What is the influence of technology on humanity’s future?
Should all workplaces offer hybrid/remote work?
Should we pursue Artificial Intelligence?
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?
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?
Spending money to explore space is going to improve life for humans
The scientific world is changing way too fast
Which renewable energy option would the US do best to invest in?
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?
Are electric cars really better for the environment?
Google is the death of libraries
Social media is an end of face-to-face conversations
AI is the future of technology
Technology is changing our lives
Limiting screen time for adults
The government should regulate internet usage
Technology has made life better
Internet chat rooms are not safe
Humans are addicted to technology
Internet fraud awareness: Must for cybersecurity

Convincing Speech Topics for Business

The importance of people’s skills for the success of your business
Are introverts better entrepreneurs?
How can a mentor affect your success as an entrepreneur?
Understanding your position in the market. How can it affect your current and future business plan?
Social media is going to affect your marketing plan
Why should you go after your passion in business?
Starting a successful business with no money
The value of unorthodox business ideas
Using feedback from unhappy customers to enhance your sales
The importance of delegation
Employers ask for their employees’ social media accounts. Is it right or wrong?
Employers shouldn’t ask questions related to an employee’s personal life
Most businesses advertise the same way and lack boldness
Brilliant ways to make money in the 21st century

Ideas of Persuasive Speech Topics about Sports

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?
Sports can boost learning effectiveness
Competitive sports teach us a lot about life
Why we should consider gamers as professional athletes
Reasons why women's sports don’t get that much attention
Football is a dangerous sport.
Why are sports so popular globally?
Why is soccer the most popular sport in the world?
Everyone likes sports; they just haven’t found the one they like
Physical training is objectively good for everyone
How performance-enhancing drugs are used in professional sports
Why are professional athletes paid so well
Is it ethical to sell/buy players in sports?
Are the Olympics still the most important sports event?
Studying martial arts is good for the mind and health.

Health and Medicine

Using genetically modified foods is bad for our health
Using painkillers is not healthy
The power of crystal healing can improve our mental and physical health
Cancer is the most important disease that doctors should research now
How your diet can cause the onset of different health conditions
Using supplements should be controlled
Coming up with guidelines that control stem cell research
How can science be used to improve the lives of physically challenged individuals?
A migraine is usually overlooked at school or in the workplace
Alternative medication: The truth and the myths
Infertility in couples is related to stress and unhealthy lifestyles
Mental health issues affect the whole of society
The food industry is the reason behind obesity
Everyone should donate blood at least once a year
How to overcome back pain? Different treatment options
Using a mouthwash after brushing your teeth is essential for your dental health
Do cell phones affect our brains?
Non-smokers should be first on the organ transplant lists
Is biohacking good for your health?
Diet beverages do not actually make you lose weight
Using the right amount of salt in your food is going to affect your health
Keeping your immune system strong is a must
How to save lives: The answer is organ donation
Should minors be able to purchase birth control without their parent's consent?
Conventional vs organic produce: does it really make a difference in your health?
Should governments tax soda and other sugary drinks and use the revenue for public health?
Should we teach yoga and meditation in public schools?
Should high schools provide free condoms to students?
Should massages be seen as necessities rather than luxuries?
Should hiding or lying about your HIV status with someone you're sleeping with be illegal?
Keto vs. Paleo vs. Vegan: which diet is better?
Should a patient be allowed to deny medical care?
Should the US switch to single-payer health care?
Top things to do in order to improve the way your body and brain function
Why Every Adult Needs a Nap Time Just Like Kindergarten
The Art of Procrastination: Why It’s a Skill, Not a Flaw
How Being Lazy Can Actually Make You More Efficient
Why We Should Have a National 'Talk Like a Pirate' Day
The Conspiracy Theory That Socks Disappear in the Dryer
Pets Should Have Social Media Accounts: The Pros
Why Teenagers Should Give Technology Advice to Adults
Coffee vs. Tea: The Ultimate Showdown for Morning Supremacy
How Horoscopes Can Solve All Your Work and Love Troubles
Why We Should Elect a Cat as the Next President
Should universal health care be freely given to everyone?
Should soda and candy be banned from school campuses?
Should tobacco products be completely banned in America?
Is a plant-based diet better than a meat-based diet?
Should addiction counseling and treatment be covered by health insurance?
Would taxing fast food help combat obesity?
Should we ban all genetically modified foods?
What would be the benefits of making all birth control methods (e.g. condoms, the pill) free of charge?
Should homeopathic and alternative medical treatments be covered by health insurance?
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?
Brexit will fuel the UK economy
There should be no minimum wage
Political unrest decelerates economic growth
You need to start saving for retirement now.
Economics as a discipline must be mandatory
The economic growth of China is a model to follow
Free trade agreements are bad for labor
The economy is defined by a few rich industrialists
Foreign labor slows down the economy
Import duty should be removed
Exports boost economic growth

Funny and Easy 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?
Is the movie ranking system an effective way to evaluate the appropriateness of films?
Should the government place a “health tax” on junk food?
Should parents let children choose their own names?
Should we adopt a universal language to communicate with people from all countries?
We are living better than ever, but we still complain
The prison system doesn’t create better humans
Being untidy doesn’t make you creative or special
We should have a royal family.
Bigfoot is real.
Bitcoin and other digital currencies are the future
Spending time with your grandparents
Texting while driving should be illegal
Using single-use plastic containers should be banned
School days should start later in the day
Immigration laws should be more lenient
Living with refugees from other countries
Students should be able to pick their schools
Should a student be allowed to skip school if they want to?
Paying more taxes: Is it a good or a bad thing?
Should human beings control the weather?
Blaming your younger sibling for the mess you made
Which music is your mind playing in the background during intense situations?
Just because we have opinions doesn’t mean they are valuable
Putting an Instagram filter on your selfie doesn’t make you a photographer
Why do stuff when you can play video games?
“Be a musician,” they said, but nobody came to my gig
Did you do something wrong? Blame it on your zodiac sign
I have plans for the weekend! sleep and watch movies
It's important to grow things in a garden.

Frequently Asked Questions

1) what are some easy persuasive speech topics.

Choosing a topic is relative for everyone. Our advice is if you have a specific interest, choosing that as a persuasive speech topic may be easier for you. In other case, here are three topics that are easy and interesting to make a presentation on:

2) What are some examples of persuasive speech topics for students and teens?

As students spend most of their time in school, it may be easier to make a persuasive speech about revisions to school policies. All your classmates and teachers surely will understand you! Here are our recommendations:

3) What are some persuasive essay topics?

In our list above, you can find 700+ persuasive speech topics! After, create your slide with Decktopus . Decktopus will not only create a slide for you but also fill the slide with appropriate text, graphs, and images!

4) What are some persuasive speech topics for school and college?

Considering a topic that includes schools and/or colleges may be a good idea for you! Your audience will mostly consist of peers, fellow classmates, and teachers, who are all familiar with the school environment. For college, consider these topics:

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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:

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?”

My Speech Class

Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

190 Society Speech Topics [Persuasive, Informative, Argumentative]

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

In this article:

Informative

Argumentative, list of society speech topics.

Why you should push people to try new things.
No child should be considered a “lost cause”.
We shouldn’t have to pay for internet access.
Celebrities should have more privacy rights.
Life is better now than it was 50 years ago.
Why stereotypes are harmful.
Why everyone should know about feminism.
Support the wounded warrior project.
Should companies market to children?
Prisoners should be allowed to vote.
Are we doing enough to end poverty?
Is Social Darwinism true?
The USA has too many prisoners.
Why we should have a three day weekend.
How to fix harmful gender roles.
Is trick or treating a bad thing?
Should retirement homes be free?
Public toilets should be cleaner.
Generic products are just as good.
How bullying changes who you are.
How bullying can lead to suicide.
Societal beauty demands are harmful.
The advantages of politeness.
Why you should not shop at Walmart.
Volunteering in your community.
The need for affordable housing.
Should we get longer holidays?
The danger of propaganda.
Too much money is a bad thing.
We need free bus rides for seniors.
We need better public transportation.
The importance of volunteering.
Homeless people deserve a home.
The importance of preventing cyber bullying.
Donate money to charity.
Raise the retirement age.
We need to stop censorship.
We need more foster parents.
Why everyone is equal.
Single parent families need help.
Mandatory sentencing weakened communities.
Corporate corruption weakens the country.
The pledge of allegiance should not be mandatory.
Shop at local stores.
Buy security alarms.
We need more prison alternatives.
Frivolous lawsuits hurt the country.
We need more affirmative action.
More resources should be devoted to fighting poverty.
Bar closing hours should be later.
Police corruption needs to be stopped.
Stay at home moms deserve more respect.
Women’s pay rates should be equal to men’s.
Cosmetic surgery should be highly regulated.
We need to care for our aging population.
Racial profiling needs to be stopped.
Privacy rights must be respected.
Women’s rights must be advanced.
Race relations need to be improved.
Columbus day should be eliminated.
Gun control saves lives.
Media bias is harming our country.
Beauty contests are harmful.
Privatize social security.
A more open immigration policy will cause economical disasters.
Action movies reflect the fall of good manners.
Activism on engaging social matters are on the rise.
African-Americans and Hispanic-Americans are still discriminated against.
Alternative lifestyles influence art.
Art festivals should raise awareness on key social issues.
Arts are an invention of the elite.
Binge drinking has a lasting negative effect on social behavior.
Bisexuality is equal to heterosexuality in the western world.
Crime maps should be made public.
Cultural diversity is not a barrier for social unity.
Curfews reduce street violence.
Education, housing, and hiring must be equal for all citizens.
Elder abuse can be prevented.
Former prisoners need help to re-enter society.
Gay soap-opera characters must kiss each other.
Hip-Hop and R&B gangsta rap music influence our youth.
Homelessness figures are not exaggerated.
Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes.
It is impossible for news media to devote equal attention to all people.
Let graffiti artists clean the walls they ruin themselves.
Media violence is damaging children.
Multinationals rule the world, not governments.
National lotteries must find a way to help gambling addicts.
Not enough money is available for international refugee programs.
Not enough public buildings have easier access for people with disabilities.
Not having a car means less choice in how to conduct your life.
Our liberties should be protected at all costs.
People could learn a lot about life from the Amish.
Permanent affordable supportive housing helps people live more stable lives.
Prohibit skateboards and hoverboards on sidewalks.
Public shame in TV reports is a perfect way for criminal retribution.
Ratings are not effective in curbing violence.
Rhetoric techniques pave the way to success in life.
Safety and security are what society needs most.
Sexist images of women should be banned.
Skinny models are setting a bad example for teenagers.
Social deprivation is the source of crime.
Spanish Americans have been at a disadvantage in society for decades.
Television soaps are responsible for the increasing number of breast implants today.
The dangers of gambling are not only short term.
The environment of a young person has a direct effect on her of his prospects.
The G8 leaders cause more poverty in developing nations.
The Patriot Act violates civil liberties.
The poor should be seen as consumers with special needs.
The private lives of celebrities should remain private.
The right to freedom is more important than security issues.
The social costs of legalized casino gambling outweigh the benefits.
There will always be homeless people.
There will never be an end to poverty.
To understand American society, you must first understand blues music.
We are better off today than we were five years ago.
We are lost our cultural identity.
We can stop girls from being maimed and abused.
Western nations must not impose their standards on developing countries.
Women are not fairly portrayed in the media.
Zero tolerance policies are not working.
There are ways to stop the continuous growth of Earths population.
Children in … fill in the nation of your choice … have a better life than ten years ago.
China is right to have a one-child policy.
The world is nowhere near prepared for unexpected dooms and disasters.
There are ways to control the human population.
Why are dogs known as man’s best friend?
Is happiness a good measure of social progress?
The day to day duties of a police officer.
The benefits of teamwork.
Some inexpensive places to take your date.
The benefits of male paternity leave.
The importance of providing shelter to homeless veterans.
Aggression is a real presence in society.
What rights consumers have.
What is the correct tipping etiquette?
The different types of personalities.
How fashion ruins the kids of today.
Wealth is not measured with money.
The negative aspects of living in an era of apathy.
Silence against violence is harmful.
Feminism and its misconceptions.
The reasons shops should be closed on Sunday.
Is being good looking important?
How to make the U.S. a better country.
How LGBT youth are protected.
The state of the rich and the poor.
The history of hello kitty.
The most interesting world records.
The invention of pop rocks.
What life will be like in the future.
How to cope with natural disasters.
Celebrate diversity.
How we should respond to chemical and biological threats of violence.
Swimming programs for the elderly.
The history of aboriginals in Australia.
The history of global crime.
Typical social roles we expect from men and women in society.
Unemployment rates compared to a decade ago.
Indigenous people around the world.
The considerable shortage of women in Alaska
The development of the human sex ratio in our country.
What indigenous people should do to preserve their culture.
Why global population keeps growing.
What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.
How people are judged by their skin color.
How parents don’t understand our generation.
Hollywood has a negative impact on society.
The taboo on recreational drugs is unjustified.
The negative effects of racism.
Why do people believe in superstitions?
Privacy is not the most important right.
The negative effects of selfishness.
Are nursing homes necessary in our society?
Do we still live in a sexist society?
Does social status matter?
The Miss America pageant is sexist.
How to stop cyber bullying.
Is laziness a good thing?
Is life in the city preferable to live life in the country?
A little bribery is okay to get everything going your way.
Ban piercings in the face.
Computer nerds will always be unpopular.
Drivers must be retrained every 15 years
Everybody does not have the right to carry a gun.
Give immigrants the right to vote on Election Day.
Hispanic poverty is not only caused by racism.
One income tax rate for everyone regardless of level of income.
The American Way of Life does not exist anymore.
This country has failed to live up to its ideals.

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75 Persuasive Speech Topics and Ideas: Tips and Examples

When it comes to speaking in front of an audience, the ability to deliver a persuasive speech is an invaluable skill. Whether you are in school, college, or at a public event, being able to sway the opinions and thoughts of others is a powerful tool. With this in mind, it is important to choose a topic that you are passionate about and that will engage your audience.

History is a rich source of inspiration for persuasive speech topics. From the historical significance of particular events to the ways in which they have shaped our modern society, there are countless opportunities for discussion. You could talk about the role of historical figures in shaping our present or discuss the impact of historical events on our sense of identity and heritage. Exploring these topics can provide valuable insights and encourage critical thinking.

Issues related to family and racism are always relevant and impactful. Discussing the importance of family values or addressing the persistence of racism in our society can help raise awareness and spark meaningful conversations. By focusing on these topics, you can shed light on the challenges we face and suggest ways to create a more inclusive and equitable future.

Education is another area that offers a wealth of persuasive speech topics. From the need for educational reforms to the impact of technology on learning, there are many angles to consider. You could discuss the benefits of personalized learning or explore the role of arts and creativity in education. By addressing these issues, you can contribute to the ongoing debates about how we can provide a better education for future generations.

Finally, it is important to touch on social and political issues that have a significant impact on our lives. Whether it’s gender-based dilemmas, technological influences, or medical reforms, these topics provide an opportunity to explore the challenges we face in our society. By researching and understanding these issues, you can develop persuasive arguments that will allow you to engage your audience and encourage them to think critically about the world around them.

To boost your persuasive speech, consider tailoring your arguments to the interests and concerns of your audience. By doing so, you can ensure that your message resonates with them and increases the likelihood of them listening and considering your viewpoints. Remember, persuasive speaking allows you to put forth your ideas in a compelling and convincing way, so steer clear of clichés and focus on presenting well-reasoned arguments supported by facts and evidence.

Importance of Persuasive Speech Topics

Persuasive speech topics are especially important in colleges and universities, as they help students develop critical thinking and communication skills. By researching and presenting a well-constructed argument, students can learn how to express their ideas and opinions effectively, as well as consider multiple perspectives on challenging issues.

Many persuasive speech topics also deal with issues of social justice, ethics, and society’s most pressing problems. For example, bioethics debates about medical ethics, AI and its influences on society, or the importance of protecting marginalized groups can all be powerful topics that spark thoughtful discussions.

Moreover, persuasive speech topics can help shed light on historical events and face the crises of the past. By choosing topics about historical figures or events, you can bring attention to important moments in history and help others understand their significance.

Another important aspect of persuasive speech topics is their ability to transform education, identity, and society. By speaking about topics such as the importance of educational reforms, the role of technology in shaping our identities, or the negative impacts of violence in video games on children, you can spark important dialogue and potentially bring about positive change.

When considering persuasive speech topics, it’s also essential to choose something that you’re passionate about. Your passion will shine through in your delivery and help you engage your audience more effectively. It’s also important to invest time and effort into researching your topic to ensure that you have sufficient evidence to support your arguments.

Tips for Choosing Persuasive Speech Topics

Consider the societal issues that are currently on the rise and hold critical importance. Healthcare, educational reforms, combating crime, and promoting women’s rights are just a few examples of topics that could have a profound impact on society. When selecting a topic, think about how it aligns with your own thoughts and beliefs, as this will allow you to speak more authentically and persuasively.

Researching and compiling a list of persuasive speech topics–finalizing your top choices–is a great way to get started. Once you have several topics in mind, critically evaluate the arguments for and against each one. This will help you understand the opposition’s point of view and allow you to tailor your speech to address these counterarguments effectively.

Consider the interests and needs of your audience. Think about what topics could resonate with them and impact their lives. Is there a specific issue that affects their rights or well-being? By addressing these concerns, you can effectively captivate and persuade your listeners.

Remember to choose a topic that you feel confident and knowledgeable about. It’s essential to be well-versed and well-informed to deliver a persuasive speech convincingly. Research your chosen topic, gather relevant data and statistics, and educate yourself about different perspectives and solutions.

Furthermore, consider the cultural and historical heritage of your audience. Topics related to ancient festivals, women’s rights throughout history, and the impact of scientific and industrial advancements can be intriguing and thought-provoking.

Design your speech components in a way that doesn’t steer away from the main topic. Stay focused and organized to make your presentation effective. Present facts and arguments logically, supporting them with evidence and examples.

Examples of Persuasive Speech Topics for High School Students

When choosing a persuasive speech topic, it is important for students to select a subject that they are passionate about and one that allows them to present well-researched arguments. Here are some examples of persuasive speech topics that high school students can consider:

The importance of addressing mental health in schools: Discussing the impact of anxiety and depression on student performance and the need for greater support and resources in educational institutions.
Should students receive an allowance for doing chores? Exploring the benefits of teaching children financial responsibility and how receiving an allowance can help them learn about money management.
The impact of violent video games on children: Discussing studies that have shown the potential negative effects of violent video games on adolescents’ behavior and arguing for stricter regulations on gaming content.
What are the implications of technology on our society? Examining how technology has transformed our lives and raising awareness of the potential risks and benefits associated with its widespread use.
The importance of bioethics in medical decision-making: Exploring the ethical considerations involved in healthcare practices, such as organ transplantation, genetic engineering, and end-of-life care.
The implications of social media on teenagers’ self-esteem: Discussing how social media platforms can negatively impact young individuals’ self-image and proposing strategies for promoting healthier online behaviors.
The impact of sports in shaping individuals’ character: Highlighting the positive effects of sports participation on personal development, such as discipline, teamwork, and perseverance.
The economic implications of climate change: Discussing the potential economic consequences of ignoring climate change and arguing for greater efforts to mitigate its impact.
Should college admissions be based solely on academic performance? Exploring the idea of a more holistic approach to college admissions that takes into account students’ extracurricular activities, community service, and personal growth.
The importance of preserving historical places and memories: Discussing the significance of preserving historical landmarks and memories as a way to honor the past and understand our collective identity.

These are just a few examples of persuasive speech topics that high school students can use. It is essential for the students to choose a topic that they are passionate about and one that allows them to effectively communicate their ideas and arguments to their audience. By selecting the right topic and tailor it to their interests, high school students can deliver engaging and impactful speeches that will leave a lasting impression.

Persuasive Speech Topics on Current Social Issues

Here are 15 persuasive speech topics on current social issues to inspire you:

1. The Importance of Addressing Diversity and Inclusion in Colleges

Why should colleges make diversity and inclusion a required part of the curriculum?
How can colleges create a more inclusive environment for students of all ethnic backgrounds?

2. The Rise of Emotional Support Animals: Are They the Right Therapy?

What are the benefits and potential risks of using emotional support animals?
Should emotional support animals be allowed in all public spaces?

3. The Impact of Technology on Society: Is it Making Us Better or Worse?

Does technology help us to connect with others or is it driving us apart?
Is social media causing more harm than good?

4. The Ethical Implications of Fast-Track Adoption

Should the process of adoption be expedited to give children a better chance at finding a home?
What are the potential risks and benefits of fast-track adoption?

5. The Importance of Teaching Critical Thinking Skills in Education

Why is it essential to teach students how to think critically?
Are schools doing enough to foster critical thinking skills in students?

6. The History and Significance of Cultural Festivals

What role do cultural festivals play in preserving traditions?
Why is it important for communities to celebrate their cultural heritage?

7. The Future of Solar Technology: Harnessing the Power of the Sun

Why should we invest in solar technology?
How can solar technology revolutionize the energy industry?

8. The Need for Better Protection of Workers’ Rights

Are current workplace protections enough to ensure the well-being of employees?
What can businesses do to prioritize workers’ rights?

9. The Use of Brain-Computer Interfaces in Medical Science

What are the potential benefits and dangers of brain-computer interfaces?
Should brain-computer interfaces be used in medical research and treatment?

10. The Rise of Hate Crimes: Combating Discrimination in Society

Why are hate crimes on the rise, and what can be done to address them?
How can communities come together to promote tolerance and acceptance?

These suggested topics are just a starting point for your persuasive speech. Remember, it’s crucial to choose a topic you’re passionate about and one that has relevance and impact in today’s society. By selecting a topic that resonates with your audience, you’ll be able to deliver a persuasive speech that can effect positive change.

What are some persuasive speech topics related to women’s rights?

There are several persuasive speech topics related to women’s rights that you can consider, such as the gender pay gap, maternal leave policies, reproductive health rights, and gender-based violence.

Can you give me some examples of persuasive speech topics on gender stereotypes?

Sure! Some examples of persuasive speech topics on gender stereotypes include the need to challenge traditional gender roles, the impact of media on perpetuating gender stereotypes, and the importance of promoting gender equality in educational systems.

Why is it important to discuss gender equality in a persuasive essay?

Discussing gender equality in a persuasive essay is important because it helps raise awareness about the existing disparities between genders and encourages people to take action towards achieving equality. It also helps challenge societal norms and promotes a fair and inclusive society.

How can I make my persuasive speech on women’s rights more impactful?

To make your persuasive speech on women’s rights more impactful, you can support your arguments with relevant statistics and facts, include personal stories or testimonials, use persuasive language and rhetorical devices, and engage the audience by asking thought-provoking questions or involving them in interactive activities.

What are some potential counterarguments to women’s rights issues that I should address in my persuasive essay?

Some potential counterarguments to women’s rights issues might include claims that gender equality has already been achieved, that some gender disparities are biologically determined, or that focusing on women’s rights takes attention away from other important social issues. It is important to address these counterarguments and provide evidence and reasoning to counter them in your persuasive essay.

Some persuasive speech topics related to women’s rights include: closing the gender wage gap, promoting reproductive rights, advocating for equal representation in political and corporate leadership positions, and addressing domestic violence.

Can you give me a persuasive essay topic idea that focuses on gender stereotypes?

A persuasive essay topic idea that focuses on gender stereotypes could be challenging traditional gender roles in society and promoting gender equality. This could involve discussing the negative impact of gender stereotypes on individuals and society as a whole, as well as proposing ways to break free from these stereotypes.

By Alex Koliada, PhD

Alex Koliada, PhD, is a well-known doctor. He is famous for studying aging, genetics, and other medical conditions. He works at the Institute of Food Biotechnology and Genomics. His scientific research has been published in the most reputable international magazines. Alex holds a BA in English and Comparative Literature from the University of Southern California , and a TEFL certification from The Boston Language Institute.

40+ Captivating Persuasive Speech Topics For Students

Persuasive speeches have the remarkable ability to inspire change, challenge conventional beliefs, and shape the way we perceive the world. However, finding the perfect topic that strikes a chord with your audience and aligns with your own values can be a daunting task.

So, whether you’re passionate about social justice, environmental sustainability, or personal growth, join us on this journey of discovery and let these captivating persuasive speech topics inspire your next remarkable presentation. Get ready to wield the power of words and make a difference through the art of persuasion. Let’s dive in!

What Is Persuasive Speech?

Table of Contents

A persuasive speech is a form of communication that aims to convince or influence an audience to adopt a particular viewpoint, belief, or action. The speaker presents arguments and supporting evidence to sway the audience’s opinions and encourage them to align with the speaker’s perspective.

The primary objective of a persuasive speech is to persuade the audience to think, feel, or act in a specific way. It involves employing various persuasive techniques, such as logical reasoning, emotional appeal, and credible evidence, to make a compelling case for the speaker’s position.

Persuasive speeches are often delivered in a structured format that includes an introduction, body, and conclusion. In the introduction, the speaker grabs the audience’s attention, establishes credibility, and presents the main argument or thesis statement. The body of the speech provides supporting evidence, examples, and counterarguments to strengthen the speaker’s position. The conclusion summarizes the main points and reinforces the call to action or desired outcome.

Effective persuasive speeches not only present persuasive arguments but also consider the audience’s values, beliefs, and potential objections. They engage the listeners by addressing their concerns, offering solutions, and appealing to their emotions. By employing persuasive techniques and thoughtful rhetoric, speakers strive to leave a lasting impact and inspire their audience to embrace the desired message or take action.

Persuasive speeches are commonly used in various settings, including classrooms, political rallies, sales pitches, and public advocacy campaigns. They play a crucial role in influencing public opinion, raising awareness, and promoting social change.

Importance Of Persuasive Speech That You Must Know

Here are some key reasons why persuasive speech is important:

1. Influence and Persuasion

Persuasive speeches are powerful tools for influencing and persuading others to adopt a particular viewpoint or take specific action. Whether it’s convincing people to support a cause, change their behavior, or vote for a candidate, persuasive speeches can effectively sway opinions and inspire action.

2. Public Speaking Skills

Delivering persuasive speeches helps develop essential public speaking skills. It enhances one’s ability to articulate thoughts clearly, engage an audience, and communicate persuasively. These skills are valuable in various professional fields, such as business, politics, education, and advocacy.

3. Critical Thinking

Crafting a persuasive speech requires in-depth research, analysis, and critical thinking. Speakers must evaluate different perspectives, anticipate counterarguments, and provide logical reasoning to support their claims. Engaging in persuasive speech encourages individuals to think critically, examine evidence, and form well-reasoned arguments.

4. Advocacy and Social Change

Persuasive speeches play a crucial role in advocating for social issues and driving positive change. They raise awareness about important topics, challenge societal norms, and inspire individuals to take action. Through persuasive speeches, individuals can mobilize communities, influence public opinion, and contribute to meaningful transformations.

5. Effective Communication

Persuasive speeches enhance overall communication skills. Speakers learn to effectively structure their ideas, convey messages concisely, and adapt their language and tone to connect with diverse audiences.

6. Building Confidence

Delivering a persuasive speech requires confidence and self-assurance. As individuals prepare and present their arguments, they develop a sense of confidence in their ability to express their ideas and influence others. This confidence extends beyond public speaking and can positively impact various aspects of life, including personal relationships, negotiations, and leadership roles.

7. Empowering Individuals

Persuasive speeches have the potential to empower individuals by giving them a platform to express their beliefs, values, and concerns. It allows individuals to share their perspectives, challenge the status quo, and inspire others to take action. Through persuasive speaking, individuals can find their voice and make a difference in their communities and beyond.

8. Enhancing Persuasive Writing Skills

Crafting a persuasive speech often goes hand in hand with developing persuasive writing skills. The process of organizing thoughts, structuring arguments, and selecting impactful language strengthens one’s ability to write persuasively. These writing skills are valuable in academic settings, professional environments, and personal communication.

9. Fostering Open Dialogue

Persuasive speeches encourage dialogue and open discussions. By presenting different viewpoints and engaging in respectful debate, speakers create opportunities for diverse perspectives to be heard and understood. This fosters an environment of intellectual exchange, encourages critical thinking, and promotes a deeper understanding of complex issues.

10. Inspiring Action

Ultimately, the goal of a persuasive speech is to inspire action. Whether it’s encouraging individuals to donate to a cause, change their behaviors, or support a particular policy, persuasive speeches have the power to motivate people to act upon their convictions. They can ignite passion, instill a sense of purpose, and mobilize individuals and communities to bring about positive change.

Here in this section, we will tell you 40+ Captivating Persuasive Speech Topics For Students:

1. The Importance of Recycling

Persuade others to adopt recycling practices by discussing the environmental benefits of recycling and the impact on reducing waste.

2. Benefits of Meditation

Explore the positive effects of meditation on mental and physical well-being, such as stress reduction and increased focus.

3. Social Media Addiction

Discuss the negative impacts of excessive social media use on mental health and personal relationships, and advocate for mindful usage.

4. Animal Testing

Argue against the use of animals for scientific experiments and promote alternative methods that are more ethical and effective.

5. Climate Change

Present the urgency of addressing climate change and advocate for sustainable practices to mitigate its effects and preserve the planet.

6. Benefits of Volunteering

Highlight the personal growth, community impact, and sense of fulfillment that comes with volunteering.

7. Cyberbullying

Raise awareness about the harmful effects of cyberbullying on individuals’ mental health and advocate for stricter measures to prevent and combat it.

8. The Importance of Mental Health Education

Advocate for the inclusion of mental health education in schools to reduce stigma, promote early intervention, and support overall well-being.

9. Gun Control

Present arguments for stricter gun control regulations and advocate for measures to enhance public safety and prevent gun violence.

10. Importance of Financial Literacy

Advocate for the inclusion of financial literacy education in schools to empower individuals with essential money management skills and prevent financial difficulties.

11. Gender Equality

Discuss the importance of achieving gender equality in various spheres of life, addressing issues like pay gaps, representation, and equal opportunities.

12. Benefits of Exercise

Highlight the physical and mental health benefits of regular exercise, including improved mood, increased energy, and reduced risk of diseases.

13. Online Privacy

Discuss the implications of compromised online privacy, such as identity theft and data breaches, and advocate for better protection of personal information.

14. Importance of Arts Education

Advocate for the inclusion of arts education in schools and highlight its positive impact on creativity, critical thinking, and overall development.

15. The Harmful Effects of Fast Food

Present arguments against excessive consumption of fast food and promote healthier eating habits for better long-term health.

16. Capital Punishment

Discuss the ethical considerations surrounding capital punishment and argue for its abolishment based on issues of morality, fairness, and wrongful convictions.

17. Access to Education

Advocate for equal access to quality education for all individuals, addressing educational disparities based on socioeconomic background, race, or geography.

18. Dangers of Texting While Driving

Raise awareness about the risks of distracted driving due to texting and advocate for stricter penalties and awareness campaigns to reduce accidents.

19. Importance of Renewable Energy

Discuss the benefits of transitioning to renewable energy sources and advocate for sustainable energy practices to combat climate change and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

20. The Influence of Media on Body Image

Highlight the negative impact of media’s portrayal of ideal body images on self-esteem, body image dissatisfaction, and promote body positivity and self-acceptance.

21. Universal Healthcare

Argue for the implementation of universal healthcare, emphasizing the benefits of affordable and accessible healthcare for all individuals, regardless of socioeconomic status.

22. Legalization of Marijuana

Present arguments for the legalization of marijuana, addressing its potential benefits for medical use, tax revenue, and reducing criminal activity associated with prohibition.

23. The Impact of Plastic Pollution

Raise awareness about the detrimental effects of plastic pollution on the environment and advocate for reducing plastic consumption and promoting sustainable alternatives.

24. Immigration Policies

Discuss the importance of fair and compassionate immigration policies, addressing issues of human rights, economic contributions, and cultural diversity.

25. Mental Health Stigma

Address the stigma surrounding mental health, educate others about the realities of mental health disorders, and advocate for increased awareness, acceptance, and support for individuals facing mental health challenges.

26. Affordable Housing Crisis

Discuss the issue of affordable housing shortage in many communities, explore the impact on individuals and families, and advocate for policies to address this pressing problem and provide affordable housing options.

27. The Benefits of Early Childhood Education

Present arguments for the importance of early childhood education in fostering cognitive and social development, preparing children for academic success, and narrowing the achievement gap.

28. Cybersecurity

Discuss the increasing threats in cyberspace, including hacking and identity theft, and advocate for stronger cybersecurity measures to protect personal and sensitive information.

29. Workplace Diversity

Highlight the advantages of diverse and inclusive workplaces, including increased creativity, innovation, and improved company performance, and advocate for equal opportunities for underrepresented groups.

30. School Bullying

Address the issue of bullying in schools, discuss its harmful effects on victims and the overall learning environment, and advocate for prevention programs, increased awareness, and stronger anti-bullying measures.

31. Accessible Transportation

Advocate for improved accessibility in public transportation systems, addressing the needs of individuals with disabilities and promoting inclusivity.

32. Importance of Nutrition Education

Advocate for comprehensive nutrition education in schools to combat the rise of unhealthy eating habits, obesity rates, and promote lifelong health and well-being.

33. Animal Cruelty

Raise awareness about different forms of animal cruelty, such as animal testing, factory farming, and wildlife exploitation, and advocate for stricter laws and ethical treatment of animals.

34. Renewable Energy Transition

Discuss the urgent need to transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, and advocate for government support, incentives, and investment in renewable energy infrastructure.

35. Access to Clean Water

Address the global issue of clean water scarcity, its impact on communities, and advocate for sustainable water management practices and initiatives to ensure access to clean water for all.

36. Media Literacy

Advocate for the importance of media literacy education, empowering individuals to critically analyze and interpret media messages, identify misinformation, and make informed decisions.

37. Genetic Engineering

Present arguments for and against genetic engineering, discussing its potential benefits in medicine, agriculture, and ethical considerations, and advocate for responsible and regulated practices.

38. Mental Health Support in Schools

Discuss the need for increased mental health support and resources in educational institutions, addressing the prevalence of mental health disorders among students and advocating for comprehensive mental health services.

39. Sustainable Fashion

Raise awareness about the environmental and social impact of fast fashion, advocate for sustainable and ethical practices in the fashion industry, and promote conscious consumerism.

40. Artificial Intelligence Ethics

Discuss the ethical implications and potential risks of artificial intelligence, such as privacy concerns, job displacement, and bias, and advocate for responsible development and regulation of AI technologies.

41. Genetic Discrimination

Address the issue of genetic discrimination based on genetic information and advocate for policies to protect individuals from discrimination in employment, healthcare, and insurance based on their genetic profile.

42. Universal Basic Income

Present arguments for the implementation of a universal basic income, exploring its potential to alleviate poverty, promote economic stability, and address income inequality.

43. Mental Health Support in the Workplace

Advocate for increased mental health support and resources in the workplace, promoting a supportive and inclusive environment, and addressing the importance of work-life balance and employee well-being.

44. Sustainable Agriculture

Discuss the benefits of sustainable agriculture practices, such as organic farming, regenerative agriculture, and local food systems, and advocate for their widespread adoption to promote food security, environmental sustainability, and health.

Argumentative Essay Topics
Business Speech Topics

How to Find Persuasive Speech Topics

Here are some of the ways on how to find persuasive speech topics:

1. Brainstorming

Set aside some time to brainstorm ideas. Think about your own interests, passions, and experiences. Consider current events, social issues, and topics that you feel strongly about. Write down any ideas that come to mind, no matter how unconventional they may seem.

2. Personal Reflection

Reflect on your own experiences, challenges, and beliefs. Is there a particular issue or cause that you are passionate about? Is there a problem you’ve encountered that you would like to address? Your personal insights and experiences can often lead to unique and persuasive speech topics.

3. Research

Stay updated on current events, social issues, and emerging trends. Read news articles, opinion pieces, and research studies to gain insights into various topics. Look for controversial or thought-provoking subjects that generate different viewpoints and discussions.

4. Explore Social Issues

Consider the issues that impact society and provoke debates. Topics like climate change, gender equality, racial justice, healthcare access, and technological advancements often generate passionate discussions. Research the different perspectives and arguments surrounding these topics to find a compelling angle for your speech.

5. Audience Analysis

Understand your audience’s interests, concerns, and values. Think about what topics would resonate with them and what issues they may be interested in learning more about. Tailoring your speech to the specific needs and interests of your audience can make it more persuasive and engaging.

6. Online Resources

Explore online resources such as websites, forums, and social media platforms that discuss and debate various topics. Platforms like TED Talks, news websites, and online forums can provide inspiration and ideas for persuasive speech topics.

7. Seek Inspiration from Others

Listen to speeches or watch presentations given by renowned speakers, activists, and thought leaders. Pay attention to the topics they discuss and the way they deliver their arguments. While you should never copy someone else’s speech, these can serve as sources of inspiration and guidance.

8. Consult with Others

Engage in conversations with friends, family members, colleagues, or classmates about potential speech topics. Discuss current events, social issues, and areas of interest. Their perspectives and suggestions may help you discover new and compelling topics.

Significance of Choosing the Right Persuasive Speech Topics

Here is the significance of choosing the right persuasive speech topics

1. Audience Engagement

A well-chosen topic captures the interest and attention of your audience. When you select a topic that resonates with your listeners, they are more likely to be engaged and actively participate in the speech. This increases the effectiveness of your persuasive message and enhances the impact of your speech.

2. Personal Connection

When you choose a topic that you are passionate about or have personal experience with, your authenticity and enthusiasm shine through. This connection with the topic helps you deliver a more compelling speech and establish a stronger rapport with your audience. Your genuine passion and knowledge make your arguments more persuasive and convincing.

3. Relevance

The right topic is one that is relevant to your audience’s lives, interests, or concerns. By addressing issues that are meaningful to them, you establish a direct connection and demonstrate that you understand their perspectives. This relevance creates a sense of importance and urgency, making your speech more impactful and likely to generate positive change or action.

4. Emotional Appeal

Persuasive speeches often rely on evoking emotions to influence the audience. Choosing a topic that taps into emotions, such as empathy, compassion, or a sense of justice, can be highly effective in driving your message home. Emotionally compelling topics have the power to motivate, inspire, and create lasting impact on the listeners.

5. Credibility and Research

A well-chosen topic allows you to gather credible research and evidence to support your arguments. It ensures that you have access to reliable sources, data, and expert opinions that strengthen your persuasive message. The availability of credible information helps build your credibility as a speaker and enhances the persuasiveness of your speech.

6. Diverse Perspectives

Consider selecting topics that present multiple viewpoints and encourage critical thinking. By exploring different perspectives and addressing counterarguments , you demonstrate a fair and balanced approach. This approach not only makes your speech more credible but also encourages open-mindedness and fosters constructive dialogue among your audience.

7. Social Impact

The right persuasive speech topic has the potential to create positive social change. By addressing pressing issues, raising awareness, and advocating for specific actions or policies, you contribute to the broader discussions and movements happening in society. Your speech can inspire others to rethink their beliefs, change their behaviors, or take active steps toward a better future.

In conclusion, the significance of choosing the right persuasive speech topics cannot be overstated. It is through careful selection that we can engage our audience, establish personal connections, and create relevance. By addressing topics that resonate with our listeners, we capture their attention and foster an environment conducive to persuasion.

The impact of a well-chosen topic goes beyond mere engagement. It taps into emotions, evokes empathy, and drives action. When we speak passionately about subjects that hold personal meaning for us, our authenticity shines through, making our arguments more compelling and persuasive.

Furthermore, selecting the right topic allows us to gather credible research and evidence, bolstering our credibility and enhancing the strength of our message. It also opens the door to exploring diverse perspectives, encouraging critical thinking and constructive dialogue among our audience.

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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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How to Create and Organize a Persuasive Speech That Resonates With Your Audience

Average: 5 ( 1 vote)

Most people will have to think about how to write a persuasive speech at some point in their lives. This form of presentation is a speech that aims to convince or affect a listener. During a performance, a speaker seeks to influence the beliefs, attitudes, values, or behaviors of audience members. This can be achieved through techniques such as appeals to emotion, logic, or credibility. But remember, choosing a persuasive speech topic is the first and most essential step in the process. In this article, we will explore the key elements of creating a speech that connects with your audience and inspires them to take action. We will also cover effective strategies for structuring your speech, formulating a strong thesis, and delivering a persuasive argument.

Types of Persuasive Speech

With the ubiquity of social media, it's easy to think that public speaking is a relic of the past. But this is far from the case, and it is still highly valued in many professions. Teachers, trainers, consultants, managers, politicians, business people, and other professionals must be able to communicate effectively with colleagues, clients, and audiences. Such actions help to develop leadership skills and build trust. It also assists in communicating messages and presenting products and services effectively. There are many types of persuasive speech. Each has its unique purpose and style:

● Policy Persuasive Speech: This type of speech is designed to convince the audience to support or oppose a particular policy or law.

● Value Persuasive Speech: This type of speech aims to capture the audience's attention and encourage them to adopt a particular value or belief. One of the most outstanding persuasive speech examples is the legendary "I Have a Dream" by writer and leader Martin Luther King. Its purpose was to be a rallying point for the acceptance of the values of racial equality and justice.

● Fact Persuasive Speech: This aims to convince the audience to accept some fact or reality. An example of this would be to present evidence in support of a particular scientific theory.

● Cause and effect persuasive speech: The purpose of this one is to encourage the listeners to take action in response to a particular phenomenon. For example, a speech advocating for gun control laws after a mass shooting.

Write and Structure Yourself or Use a Writing Service

In this article, we will explain how to write and structure a persuasive speech to engage your audience. The ability to properly express and share your views is an art that requires practice. Beyond that, attending events that provide experience is also essential. You can also use an essay writing service like Papersowl.com to get new ideas and find new concepts. The primary point, in this case, is to understand how to structure a persuasive speech.

Your draft should be organized as follows:

1) Introduction

First, you must convey to your audience that you are worth listening to. This part demonstrates how listeners will profit from your presentation. There should also be something completely unexpected here. For example, you can make a reference to a historical event, a quote, a question to the audience, or a rhetorical statement.

2) The main body

This is the largest part of your speech, sometimes taking up 95% of the time. This is where you have the opportunity to reveal the purpose of your persuasive speech and explain it in detail. Don't forget to draw on your experience. Doing so will help you gain trust from the audience. It works even better if you have already established a rapport with your audience at the beginning of your speech. You should be building relationships throughout.

3) Conclusion

Finally, you should summarize the main ideas of your speech and direct the listener to take specific actions. It is also necessary to encourage further reflection on your persuasive speech topic.

Useful Tips for Writing a Persuasive Speech

As we've already mentioned, public speaking is a key skill nowadays. Effective speaking motivates others and allows you to stand out from the crowd. You can make new contacts and open up your career prospects. But this process involves many factors, not just the knowledge of how to organize a persuasive speech. For beginners, it is especially important to learn not to be afraid of public speaking . That's why, below, we'll talk about the key elements that can affect the outcome of your speech. Study these elements, and don't let anything stop you from your goal.

Analyze Your Audience

"What is a good persuasive speech?" - This is a question that can be answered in many ways, but it is about influencing the audience. But how do you determine the values of your audience? I’m sure you would agree that it would be rather pointless to tell them what they already know. Or, on the other hand, present something too overwhelming for them to process in a short period. You must be able to tailor your message to your audience, and to do that, you need to know something about them. You can get to know your audience with simple questions. This will give you a new set of concepts to think about. Here are some of them:

● Who are they?

● What do they want?

● What do you have in common?

● What do they know?

● What are their doubts, fears, and misconceptions?

Pick an Interesting Topic

When considering a variety of persuasive speech topics, it is vital to select something that you are passionate about. This will help you deliver confidently and persuasively. It is also important to choose a topic that is relevant to them and contemporary to keep your audience interested and engaged. Consider the level of controversy and complexity of your topic.

Demonstrate Persuasive Arguments

The heart of a persuasive presentation is your strongest argument. It should be constructed according to your audience's values, beliefs, and attitudes about your topic. It also needs to be supported by evidence that is relevant and reliable.

One of the most effective ways to construct an argument is to use the problem-solution format. In this format, you begin with identifying a problem that is of concern to your audience. Then you must present a solution that resolves that issue.

Alternatively, you can use the cause-and-effect format. In this case, you begin by identifying the condition that leads to the problem. Then you present the outcome that fixes it. Whatever format you use, your arguments should be clear, logical, and consistent.

Use Powerful Language

The language you use in your speech has a significant impact on the audience's perception of your message. To make a persuasive speech more compelling, you can use a variety of rhetorical devices. These can include repetition, parallelism, rhetorical questions, and metaphors. For example, you can use the phrase "we must act now" to emphasize the urgency of your statement.

Writing and presenting a speech that resonates with your audience requires careful preparation. To achieve this, you can use various persuasive techniques, such as appeals to logic, emotion, and ethics. Use evidence, statistics, anecdotes, and examples to support your argument and make it more convincing. Don't be afraid to share your ideas - you never know who you might inspire!

About the author:

Hi there! My name is Carla, and I'm a journalist specializing in education. I've worked for various publications, including "The Chronicle of Higher Education" and "Inside Higher Ed," and I'm an expert in the field of education. In addition to my work covering general higher education topics, I have also conducted extensive research into the use of essay writing services by students. My reporting has been recognized by several journalism organizations, including the Education Writers Association and the Society of Professional Journalists.

Disclaimer: this article includes a paid product promotion.

How to Write an Informative Speech in 12 Easy Steps

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Supreme Court tackles social media and free speech

Nina Totenberg

In a major First Amendment case, the Supreme Court heard arguments on the federal government's ability to combat what it sees as false, misleading or dangerous information online.

ARI SHAPIRO, HOST:

At the Supreme Court today, a majority of the justices seemed highly skeptical of claims that federal officials may be broadly barred from contacts with social media platforms. At issue was a sweeping 5th Circuit Court of Appeals decision. That ruling blocked officials from the White House, the FBI, the CDC and other agencies from asking social media companies to remove certain content. NPR legal affairs correspondent Nina Totenberg reports.

NINA TOTENBERG, BYLINE: Five individuals and two Republican-dominated states claim that the government is violating the First Amendment by systematically pressuring social media companies to take down what the government sees as false and misleading information. The Biden administration counters that White House and agency officials are well within their rights to persuade social media companies about what they see as erroneous information about COVID-19 or foreign interference in an election or even election information about where to vote. Two justices who once worked in the White House - Brett Kavanaugh, a Trump appointee, and Elena Kagan, an Obama appointee - were the most outspoken about the long history of government contacts with media companies. Here's Kavanaugh.

(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)

BRETT KAVANAUGH: I've experienced government press people throughout the federal government who regularly call up the media and berate them.

TOTENBERG: Justice Kagan echoed that sentiment.

ELENA KAGAN: Like Justice Kavanaugh, I've had some experience encouraging press...

KAGAN: ...To suppress their own speech. You just wrote a story that's filled with factual errors. Here are the 10 reasons why you shouldn't do that again. I mean, this happens literally thousands of times a day in the federal government.

TOTENBERG: She and Justice Barrett postulated that the FBI might contact social media companies to tell them that while they might not realize it, they've been posting information from a terrorist group aimed at secret recruitment. Louisiana's solicitor general, Benjamin Aguinaga, argued that when government officials contact social media companies, even encouraging, amounts to unconstitutional pressuring. That prompted this from Justice Barrett.

BENJAMIN AGUINAGA: I mean...

AMY CONEY BARRETT: Just plain, vanilla encouragement, or does it have to be some kind of, like, significant encouragement? - because encouragement would sweep in an awful lot.

TOTENBERG: Aguinaga, however, didn't have a clear line of differentiation, except to claim that pressuring print and other media outlets is different from pressuring social media platforms. What about publishing classified information, asked Justice Kavanaugh. Are you suggesting the government can't try to get that taken down? Or what about factual inaccuracies? Justice Jackson asked about matters of public safety. What if young people were being injured or killed, carrying out a new online fad that called for jumping out of windows? Couldn't the government legitimately ask platforms to take that down? When the Louisiana solicitor general fudged, Chief Justice Roberts followed up.

JOHN ROBERTS: Under my colleague's hypothetical, it was not necessarily eliminate viewpoints. It was to eliminate some game that is seriously harming children around the country. And they say, we encourage you to stop that.

AGUINAGA: Your honor, I agree. As a policy matter, it might be great for the government to be able to do that. But the moment that the government identifies an entire category of content that it wishes to not be in the modern public sphere, that is a First Amendment problem.

TOTENBERG: Several justices questioned the record in the case. Justice Kagan said she did not see even one item that supported barring government contacts. Justice Sotomayor put it this way.

SONIA SOTOMAYOR: I have such a problem with your brief, Counselor. You omit information that changes the context of some of your claims. You attribute things to people who it didn't happen to. I'm not sure how we get to prove direct injury in any way.

TOTENBERG: Representing the Biden administration today, Deputy Solicitor General Brian Fletcher took incoming fire, mainly from Justices Alito and Thomas. But he stuck to his contention that when the government seeks to persuade a social media platform to take down a post, that is an attempt at persuasion not coercion. Unlike some of his conservative colleagues, Justice Alito was skeptical of all aspects of the government's argument.

SAMUEL ALITO: There is constant pestering of Facebook and some of the other platforms, and they want to have regular meetings. They suggest rules that should be applied. And I thought, wow, I cannot imagine federal officials taking that approach to the print media.

TOTENBERG: Nina Totenberg, NPR News, Washington.

NPR transcripts are created on a rush deadline by an NPR contractor. This text may not be in its final form and may be updated or revised in the future. Accuracy and availability may vary. The authoritative record of NPR’s programming is the audio record.

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Supreme Court to hear free speech case over government pressure on social media sites to remove content

By Melissa Quinn

Updated on: March 17, 2024 / 8:42 AM EDT / CBS News

Washington — The Supreme Court on Monday will be weighing whether the government crossed a constitutional line into censorship of lawful speech when it pressured social media platforms to take down content it deemed misleading.

The case poses a significant test of the First Amendment's free speech protections in the digital age and stems from the Biden administration's efforts to pressure social media platforms to remove content that it said spread falsehoods about the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2020 presidential election .

The Supreme Court is set to consider at what point the federal government's attempts to protect against misinformation on social media cross into censorship of speech that is constitutionally protected.

"The key free speech issue is how far can the government go in verbally arm-twisting private speech intermediaries to remove speech before that constitutes a First Amendment violation or state action," said Clay Calvert, a law professor at the University of Florida who is an expert in the First Amendment.

In addition to the social media case, known as Murthy v. Missouri, the Supreme Court on Monday will also hear a dispute over whether a New York financial regulator violated the National Rifle Association's free speech rights when she pressured banks and insurance companies in the state to sever ties with the gun rights group.

At the core of both cases is so-called jawboning, or informal pressure by the government on an intermediary to take certain actions that will suppress speech. In the first dispute, the intermediaries are the platforms, and in the second case, the intermediaries are insurance companies.

"In both cases, the government doesn't actually have the power to regulate speech or to decide whether the NRA can access banking institutions or not," said Will Duffield, a policy analyst at the libertarian Cato Institute, adding that "the government is seemingly gaining, gathering, usurping new powers by leaning on these intermediaries in order to do things that it isn't authorized to do itself."

The social media case

The first legal battle before the court arose out of the Biden administration's efforts to pressure platforms including Twitter, now known as X, YouTube and Facebook, to take down posts about COVID-19 and the 2020 election that it believed spread misinformation.

The dispute was brought by five social media users and two states, Louisiana and Missouri, who claimed their speech was stifled when platforms removed or downgraded their posts after strong-arming by officials in the White House, Centers for Disease Control, FBI and Department of Homeland Security.

The challengers claimed that at the heart of the legal battle lies a "massive, sprawling federal 'Censorship Enterprise'" through which federal officials communicated with social media platforms with the goal of pressuring them to censor and suppress speech they disfavored.

A federal district judge in Louisiana found that seven groups of Biden administration officials violated the First Amendment because they transformed the platforms' content-moderation decisions into state action by "coercing" or "significantly encouraging" their activities. U.S. District Judge Terry Doughty limited the types of communications agencies and their employees could have with the platforms, but included several carve-outs.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit then determined that certain White House officials and the FBI violated free speech rights when they coerced and significantly encouraged platforms to suppress content related to COVID-19 vaccines and the election. It narrowed the scope of the district court's order but said federal employees could not "coerce or significantly encourage" a platform's content-moderation decisions.

The Justice Department appealed to the Supreme Court, and the justices agreed to decide whether the Biden administration impermissibly worked to suppress speech on Facebook, YouTube and X. The high court temporarily paused the lower court's order limiting Biden administration officials' contact with social media companies.

In filings with the court, the Biden administration argued that the social media users and states lack legal standing to even bring the case, but said officials must be free "to inform, to persuade, and to criticize."

"The court imposed unprecedented limits on the ability of the president's closest aides to speak about matters of public concern, on the FBI's ability to address threats to the nation's security, and on CDC's ability to relay public-health information," Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar, who represents the government before the Supreme Court, said.

She argued that senior Biden administration officials were using the bully pulpit to push social media companies to address falsehoods on their platforms, which has never been a free speech violation. As long as the government is seeking to inform and persuade, and not compel, Prelogar wrote, its speech does not run afoul of the First Amendment.

"Influence is also the natural result of successful efforts to inform, to persuade, or to criticize," Prelogar wrote. "That the platforms often acted in response to the government's communications thus does not remotely show that those communications were coercive."

But state officials behind the challenge told the court that accepting the Justice Department's argument would make the First Amendment "the easiest right to violate."

White House officials, they said, frequently coupled private demands for social media companies to remove posts with public references to adverse consequences they could initiate, such as antitrust reforms or changes to the law that protect platforms from civil liability over content posted by third parties.

"By silencing speakers and entire viewpoints across social-media platforms, defendants systematically injure plaintiffs' ability to participate in free online discourse," state officials from Louisiana and Missouri wrote .

The legal fight is one of five that the justices are weighing in their current term that stand at the intersection of the right to free speech and social media. But in this case, the key question for the justices is whether the Biden administration was engaging in permissible persuasion or unlawful coercion when it urged social media platforms to suppress content.

"It's going to have to define those rules about what speech is allowed and what's not, how far can the government go before it violates the First Amendment rights of the individuals who are posting on the speech intermediaries," Calvert said.

The Biden administration has said it is vital for federal officials to be able to communicate with social media companies on issues of public consequence, and using strong or critical language does not mean it's crossing a constitutional line.

But David Greene, civil liberties director at the Electronic Frontier Foundation, said U.S. officials will not lose their ability to combat misinformation or disinformation. The government, though, has a responsibility to ensure people don't perceive it as forcing their hands, he said.

"There are two main issues, and that is what do courts look at to determine whether and at what point a government crosses the line from voicing its opinion about how a social media platform should treat a specific post to unconstitutionally coercing the censorship, the negative moderation of that post," he said. "There's no disagreement that there is a point at which it becomes unconstitutional, but what the parties disagree on is what is that line and what is the appropriate analysis for setting that line, what factors to consider?"

Any cases that present close calls should go against the government, Greene said, because officials are "best placed to moderate their behavior to make sure it's not interpreted as coercive."

The NRA's legal battle

In the second case, the court will consider whether the former superintendent of the New York State Department of Financial Services violated the NRA's free speech rights when she pushed regulated insurance companies and banks to stop doing business with the group.

Superintendent Maria Vullo, who left her post in 2019, had been investigating since 2017 two insurers involved in NRA-endorsed affinity programs, Chubb and Lockton, and determined they violated state insurance law. The investigation found that a third, Lloyd's of London, underwrote similar unlawful insurance products for the NRA.

In April 2018, after the Parkland shooting, Vullo issued guidance letters that urged regulated entities "to continue evaluating and managing their risks, including reputational risks" that may arise from their dealings with the NRA or similar gun rights groups.

Later that year, the Department of Financial Services entered into consent decrees with the three insurance companies that worked with the NRA. As part of the agreements, the insurers admitted they provided some unlawful NRA-supported programs and agreed to stop providing the policies to New York residents.

The NRA then sued the department, alleging that Vullo privately threatened insurers with enforcement action if they continued working with the group and created a system of "informal censorship" that was designed to suppress its speech, in violation of the First Amendment.

A federal district court sided with the NRA, finding that the group sufficiently alleged that Vullo's actions "could be interpreted as a veiled threat to regulated industries to disassociate with the NRA or risk DFS enforcement action."

But a federal appeals court disagreed and determined that the guidance letters and a press release couldn't "reasonably be construed as being unconstitutionally threatening or coercive," because they "were written in an even-handed, nonthreatening tone" and used words intended to persuade, not intimidate.

The NRA appealed the decision to the Supreme Court, which agreed to consider whether Vullo violated the group's free speech rights when she urged financial entities to sever their ties with it.

"Allowing unpopular speech to form the basis for adverse regulatory action under the guise of 'reputational risk,' as Vullo attempted here, would gut a core pillar of the First Amendment," the group, which is represented in part by the American Civil Liberties Union, told the court in a filing .

The NRA argued that Vullo "openly targeted the NRA for its political speech and used her extensive regulatory authority over a trillion-dollar industry to pressure the institutions she oversaw into blacklisting the organization."

"In the main, she succeeded," the organization wrote. "But in doing so, she violated the First Amendment principle that government regulators cannot abuse their authority to target disfavored speakers for punishment."

Vullo, though, told the court that the insurance products the NRA was offering its members were unlawful, and noted that the NRA itself signed a consent order with the department after Vullo left office after it found the group was marketing insurance producers without the proper license from the state.

"Accepting the NRA's arguments would set an exceptionally dangerous precedent," lawyers for the state wrote in a Supreme Court brief. "The NRA's arguments would encourage damages suits like this one and deter public officials from enforcing the law — even against entities like the NRA that committed serious violations."

The NRA, they claimed, is asking the Supreme Court to give it "favored status because it espouses a controversial view," and the group has never claimed that it was unable to exercise its free speech rights.

A decision from the Supreme Court in both cases is expected by the end of June.

Melissa Quinn is a politics reporter for CBSNews.com. She has written for outlets including the Washington Examiner, Daily Signal and Alexandria Times. Melissa covers U.S. politics, with a focus on the Supreme Court and federal courts.

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Supreme Court Wary of States’ Bid to Limit Federal Contact With Social Media Companies

A majority of the justices appeared convinced that government officials should be able to try to persuade private companies, whether news organizations or tech platforms, not to publish information so long as the requests are not backed by coercive threats.

Share full article

A reflection shows the Supreme Court. The building is in the background.

Adam Liptak

Reporting from Washington

Here’s the latest on the First Amendment case.

A majority of the Supreme Court seemed wary on Monday of a bid by two Republican-led states to limit the Biden administration’s interactions with social media companies, with several justices questioning the states’ legal theories and factual assertions.

Most of the justices appeared convinced that government officials should be able to try to persuade private companies, whether news organizations or tech platforms, not to publish information so long as the requests are not backed by coercive threats.

The dispute was the latest in an extraordinary series of cases this term requiring the justices to assess the meaning of free speech in the internet era.

Justices Brett M. Kavanaugh and Elena Kagan, both former White House lawyers, said interactions between administration officials and news outlets provided a valuable analogy. Efforts by officials to influence coverage are, they said, part of a valuable dialogue that is not prohibited by the First Amendment.

Members of the court also raised questions about whether the plaintiffs — Missouri and Louisiana, along with five individuals — had suffered the kind of injury that gave them standing to sue. They also suggested that a broad injunction prohibiting contacts between many officials and the platforms was not a proper remedy in any event.

“I don’t see a single item in your briefs that would satisfy our normal tests,” Justice Kagan told J. Benjamin Aguiñaga, Louisiana’s solicitor general.

Justice Sonia Sotomayor accused the states of distorting the record in the case. “I have such a problem with your brief,” she told Mr. Aguiñaga. “You omit information that changes the context of some of your claims. You attribute things to people who it didn’t happen to.”

Mr. Aguiñaga apologized “if any aspect of our brief was not as forthcoming as it should have been.”

The justices peppered Mr. Aguiñaga with hypothetical questions about national security, doxxing of public officials and contests that could endanger teenagers, all suggesting that there is a role for vigorous efforts by the government to combat harmful speech.

Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr., the member of the court who appeared most sympathetic to the states’ position, urged his colleagues to remain focused on the case before them.

“Whatever coercion means,” he said, “whatever happened here is sufficient.”

The case arose from a barrage of communications from administration officials urging platforms to take down posts on topics like the coronavirus vaccines and claims of election fraud. Last year, a federal appeals court severely limited such interactions .

The Supreme Court put that injunction on hold last year while it considered the administration’s appeal. If it were to go into effect, said Brian H. Fletcher, a lawyer for the government, it would prohibit all sorts of speech, including public comments from the press secretary or other senior officials seeking to discourage posts harmful to children or conveying antisemitic or Islamophobic messages.

He added that the social media companies had been moderating content on their platforms long before they were contacted by officials, had powerful business incentives to do so and were following their own policies. The companies acted independently of the government, he said, and often rejected requests to take down postings.

“These were sophisticated parties,” he said. “They routinely said no to the government. They weren’t open about it. They didn’t hesitate to do it. And when they said no to the government, the government never engaged in any sort of retaliation.”

Justice Alito said the volume and intensity of the contacts were troubling, as was the suggestion in some of them that the government and the platforms were partners in an effort to combat misinformation about the pandemic.

Mr. Fletcher responded that the messages had to be understood “in the context of an effort to get Americans vaccinated during a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic” at “a time when thousands of Americans were still dying every week.” The platforms, he added, acknowledged “a responsibility to give people accurate information.”

Mr. Aguiñaga presented a different picture of the relationship between the government and the platforms.

“Behind closed doors, the government badgers the platforms 24/7,” he said. “It abuses them with profanity. It warns that the highest levels of the White House are concerned. It ominously says that the White House is considering its options.”

“Under this onslaught,” he added, “the platforms routinely cave.”

The court this term has repeatedly grappled with fundamental questions about the scope of the government’s authority over major technology platforms. On Friday, the court set rules for when government officials can block users from their private social media accounts. Last month, the court considered the constitutionality of laws in Florida and Texas that limit large social media companies from making editorial judgments about which messages to allow.

Those four cases, along with the one on Monday, will collectively rebalance the power of the government and powerful technology platforms in the realm of free speech.

A second argument on Monday posed a related constitutional question about government power and free speech, though not in the context of social media sites. It concerns whether a state official in New York violated the First Amendment by encouraging companies to stop doing business with the National Rifle Association. The justices appeared to be favoring the gun rights group.

The states in Monday’s first case, Murthy v. Missouri, No. 23-411, did not dispute that the platforms were entitled to make independent decisions about what to feature on their sites. But they said the conduct of government officials in urging them to take down what they say is misinformation amounted to censorship that violated the First Amendment.

A unanimous three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit agreed, saying that officials from the White House, the surgeon general’s office, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the F.B.I. had most likely crossed constitutional lines in their bid to persuade platforms to take down posts about what they had flagged as misinformation.

The panel, in an unsigned opinion , said the officials had become excessively entangled with the platforms or used threats to spur them to act. The panel entered an injunction forbidding many officials to coerce or significantly encourage social media companies to remove content protected by the First Amendment.

The Biden administration filed an emergency application in September asking the Supreme Court to pause the injunction, saying that the government was entitled to express its views and to try to persuade others to take action.

The court granted the administration’s application , put the Fifth Circuit’s ruling on hold and agreed to hear the case.

Three justices dissented. “Government censorship of private speech is antithetical to our democratic form of government, and therefore today’s decision is highly disturbing,” Justice Alito wrote, joined by Justices Clarence Thomas and Neil M. Gorsuch.

Those same three justices voiced the most skepticism of the Biden administration’s position at Monday’s argument.

Other justices asked about government interactions with the press. Justice Kavanaugh, who served in the White House in the administration of President George W. Bush, said that it was “probably not uncommon for government officials to protest an upcoming story on surveillance or detention policy and say, you know, if you run that it’s going to harm the war effort and put Americans at risk.”

That was perfectly proper, he suggested, adding that it would be a different matter if the request were backed by a threat of an antitrust action.

Justice Kavanaugh said he understood, based on his earlier government service, that there are “experienced government press people throughout the federal government who regularly call up the media and berate them.”

Justice Kagan echoed the point.

“Like Justice Kavanaugh,” she said, “I’ve had some experience encouraging the press to suppress their own speech.”

She sketched out some of those conversations: “You just wrote a bad editorial. Here are the five reasons you shouldn’t write another one. You just wrote a story that’s filled with factual errors. Here are the 10 reasons why you shouldn’t do that again.”

“I mean,” she said, “this happens literally thousands of times a day in the federal government.”

Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr., another former White House lawyer, registered a lighthearted dissent, to laughter. “I have no experience coercing anybody,” he said.

But he added that the government is not monolithic and that different parts of it may hold and press competing views.

Justice Alito, who has been the subject of critical news coverage, seemed taken by the idea of pushing back against it, wondering aloud whether the court’s public information officer was in the courtroom.

“Maybe she should take a note about this,” he said. “So whenever they write something that we don’t like, she can call them up and curse them out and say ‘Why don’t we be partners? We’re on the same team.’”

What happens next? The court will probably not issue a decision until June.

Now that the arguments in the case are complete, the justices will cast tentative votes at a private conference in the coming days. The senior justice in the majority will then assign the majority opinion to a colleague — or keep it. Draft opinions, most likely including concurrences and dissents, will be prepared and exchanged.

On average, it takes the Supreme Court about three months after an argument to issue a decision. But rulings in a term’s more important cases — and this one qualifies — tend not to arrive until near the end of the term in June, no matter how early they were argued.

There are other reasons to think the decision will not arrive until late June. The case was argued in the court’s next-to-last two-week sitting, and the court will be busy this month and next with arguments on abortion and former President Donald J. Trump’s claim that he is immune from prosecution on charges that he plotted to overturn the 2020 election.

The decision must also be harmonized with rulings in related cases, including ones on whether states may prohibit technology platforms from deleting posts based on the viewpoints they express and whether a state official in New York violated the First Amendment by encouraging companies to stop doing business with the National Rifle Association.

Scholars have given varied explanations for why the biggest cases tend to land in June, no matter when they were argued. One is that justices keep polishing the opinions that will define their legacies until the last possible moment.

A 2015 study in The Duke Law Journal suggested a more personal reason: “The justices, most of whom have busy social schedules in Washington, may want to avoid tensions at their social functions by clustering the most controversial cases in the last week or two of the term — that is, just before they leave Washington for their summer recess.”

The court is hearing a related case on the N.R.A.

The question in the social media case is in one sense about government power over the internet. But at bottom it is about something more fundamental: striking the right balance between government advocacy for its policies, which is permissible, and coercion backed by threats of punishment, which is not.

The justices will return to that tension in Monday’s second argument, over whether a state official in New York violated the First Amendment by encouraging companies to stop doing business with the National Rifle Association after the 2018 school shooting in Parkland, Fla.

That question is at a general level the same as the one in the social media case, and its answer will also involve finding the constitutional line between persuasion and coercion.

The second case, National Rifle Association v. Vullo, No. 22-842, concerns the activities of Maria Vullo, a former superintendent of the New York State Department of Financial Services. In the aftermath of the school shooting in Parkland, Ms. Vullo said banks and insurance companies should consider whether they wanted to provide services to the group.

The N.R.A. sued, saying Ms. Vullo’s efforts leveraged government power in a way that violated the First Amendment.

A unanimous three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, in New York, ruled against the N.R.A. Judge Denny Chin , writing for the panel, acknowledged that government officials may not “use their regulatory powers to coerce individuals or entities into refraining from protected speech.

“At the same time, however,” he wrote, “government officials have a right — indeed, a duty — to address issues of public concern.”

Ms. Vullo’s actions were on the right side of the constitutional line, Judge Chin wrote. Key documents, he said, “were written in an evenhanded, nonthreatening tone and employed words intended to persuade rather than intimidate.”

In its petition seeking Supreme Court review , the N.R.A. said the appeals court’s ruling could have sweeping consequences.

“The Second Circuit’s opinion below gives state officials free rein to financially blacklist their political opponents — from gun-rights groups to abortion-rights groups to environmentalist groups and beyond,” the petition said.

One sign that the N.R.A. has a plausible First Amendment argument: It is represented by the American Civil Liberties Union . David Cole, the A.C.L.U.’s national legal director, will argue the case on behalf of the gun rights group.

“In this hyper-polarized environment, where few are willing to cross the aisle on anything,” Mr. Cole said, “the fact that the A.C.L.U. is defending the N.R.A. here only underscores the importance of the free-speech principle at stake.”

Charlie Savage

Oral arguments in the case are over.

Fletcher, the Justice Department lawyer, is now back for rebuttal.

Jim Rutenberg

Justice Jackson asks Aguiñaga whether government can’t move against harm, like posts that might lead teens to commit suicide, and can’t tell the platforms to move to reduce the posts. Aguiñaga says the government can call platforms to say there’s a problem, but can’t apply pressure to remove that content.

“Is it your view that the government authorities could not declare those circumstances a public emergency and encourage social media platforms to take down the information that is instigating this problem?” “Your honor, the government absolutely can use the pulpit to say publicly, here’s what we recognize to be a public health issue, emergency. We this is obviously extremely terrible and the public shouldn’t tolerate this. Platforms — we see it’s going on on the platforms — but they can’t call the platforms and say, listen, we really think you should be taking this down because look at the problems that it’s causing.” “If it’s protected speech, your honor, then I think we get closer. But like, look, if you think that that’s if that’s clearly the way you’re asking the question, I understand that the instinct that that may, you know, may not be a First Amendment issue. I guess what I fall back on, your honor, is that at least where the government itself — there is no emergency like this. There’s nothing —” “No, my hypothetical is there is an emergency. My hypothetical is that there is an emergency, and I guess I’m asking you in that circumstance, can the government call the platforms and say this information that you are putting up on your platform is creating a serious public health emergency? We are encouraging you to take it down.” “I was with you right until that last comment, your honor. I think they absolutely can call and say this is a problem. It’s going rampant on your platforms. But the moment that the government tries to use its ability as the government and its stature as the government to pressure them to take it down, that is when you’re interfering with the third-party speech rights.”

Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson asks if the government could actually tell platforms they needed to take down leaked classified information. Aguiñaga, the Louisiana lawyer, says the government could do that. “I think that would be a great example where strict scrutiny would be in the government’s favor.”

“Part of the reason why you might be running into all of these difficulties with respect to the different factual circumstances is because you’re not focusing on the fact that there are times in which the government can, depending on the circumstances, encourage, perhaps even coerce, because they have a compelling interest in doing so. And so that’s why I keep coming back to the actual underlying First Amendment issue, which we can isolate in this case and just talk about about coercion. But I think that you have to admit that there are certain circumstances in which the government can provide information, encourage the platforms to take it down, tell them to take it down. I mean, what about what about the hypo of someone posting classified information? They say it’s my free speech right. I believe that, you know, I got access to this information and I want to post it. Are you suggesting that the government couldn’t say to the platforms, we need to take that down?” “No, your honor, because I think that would be a great example where strict scrutiny would cut in the government’s favor.”

Heightening the problem of the flawed factual record undergirding the litigation, Justice Sotomayor starkly accuses Aguiñaga himself of distorting facts of what happened: “I have such a problem with your brief, counselor. You omit information that changes the context of some of your claims. You attribute things to people who it didn’t happen to — at least in one of the defendants, it was her brother that something happened to, not her. I don’t know what to make of all this because I am not sure how we get to prove direct injury in any way.”

Aguiñaga apologizes if any of the brief is not “as forthcoming” as it should have been.

This exchange between Justice Kagan and Aguiñaga, in which the Louisiana lawyer concedes that it can be OK for the government to provide information to the platforms under some circumstances, shows the problem with having an unreliable factual record compiled by Judge Doughty about what actually happened. Fletcher is citing the district court’s findings to say the government crossed the line into official censorship, but are the specifics accurate?

Aguiñaga goes at a key issue in the government content moderation efforts of the past few years — what began as attempts to address foreign meddling and disinformation moved to cover speech from Americans in 2020, over an election and a pandemic.

In an exchange with Justice Kagan, Aguiñaga, the Louisiana lawyer, identifies a difference from the hypothetical Justice Kavanaugh brought up about government officials raising concerns with a newspaper about publishing an article: That is the government going directly to the speaker. What is “so pernicious” here is that the government is going to a third party — the platforms — and people may never learn about it.

Steven Lee Myers

Aguiñaga describes the communications between officials and the platforms as “unrelenting government pressure” going on outside of the public eye. “Pressuring platforms in back rooms, shielded from public view, is not using a bully pulpit. That’s just being a bully.”

The justices and Fletcher keep referencing a 1963 precedent, Bantam Books, Inc. v. Sullivan . It centered on a state commission in Rhode Island that was empowered to notify distributors of certain books and magazines it considered to be obscene that it had decided the materials were objectionable, request its “cooperation,” and to advise them that the commission had a duty to recommend prosecution of purveyors of obscenity. The Supreme Court ruled that these notices intimidated businesses and resulted in the suppression of the sale of the books and magazines --- an unconstitutional system of informal censorship.

Aguiñaga disputes the Biden administration’s standard for the case: “We don’t need coercion as a theory,” he said. He said the government “cannot induce, encourage or promote” to get private actors to do what government cannot: censor Americans’ speech.

Benjamin Aguiñaga, the solicitor general of Louisiana, is now arguing. Louisiana is one of the Republican-controlled states that brought the lawsuit arguing that the government was coercing social media platforms into taking down posts, amounting to government censorship.

Justice Kavanaugh, a former lawyer in George W. Bush's White House, raises a national-security analogy. He notes that it’s “not uncommon” for government officials to protest to a newspaper an upcoming story on surveillance or detention policy and say, “If you run that, it is going to harm the war effort and put Americans at risk.” The implication is under the lower-court rulings, the government would not be allowed to express such concerns.

Fletcher, the government lawyer, agrees with Justice Kavanaugh that that is an example of a valuable interchange as long as it stays on the persuasion side of the line. “Platforms — newspapers — want to know if their publishing a story might put lives at risk. And they don’t have to listen to the government, but that’s information that they can consider when exercising their editorial judgment.”

Justice Kavanaugh adds that it would become problematic coercion if the government tacked on that “And if you publish the story we’re going to pursue antitrust action against you.” Fletcher agrees again with him: “Huge problem, yeah.”

Fletcher argues that the social media platforms are large companies with sufficient clout to rebuff government efforts to influence them. In fact, when university researchers working with the government flagged misinformation about the 2020 election, the platforms refused to do anything two-thirds of the time .

Justice Kavanaugh pivots back to the Biden “killing people” line and notes that in a national security context there is some history of the government warning media outlets that their stories threaten to endanger Americans’ lives.

Justice Kagan floated the idea of resolving the case by saying the plaintiffs were not entitled to an injunction because they could not show they faced an imminent threat of future harm at the time of litigation, without getting into past content moderation disputes. Fletcher, the government lawyer, agrees that would be the narrowest and easiest way to resolve the matter.

Fletcher, the government lawyer, argues that government officials can persuade a private party to do something the private party is lawfully allowed to do, even when the government could not do that thing itself. He gives various examples: when government officials called on colleges to do more about antisemitic speech on campuses after the Oct. 7 attacks in Israel, encouraging parents to monitor their children’s cell phone usages, or internet companies to watch out for child sexual abuse on their platforms, even if the Fourth Amendment would prevent the government from doing that directly. Telling social media companies that the government thinks their algorithms or posting of certain things are causing harm is the same, he said.

Here’s the moment Justice Gorsuch was referring to regarding the president’s “killing people” line.

Justice Gorsuch asks if President Biden’s statement that the platforms were “killing people” by allowing misinformation to flow in the middle of the pandemic would amount to coercion. Fletcher says the president made clear afterward it was “exhortation, not threat.”

Alito is saying he can’t imagine the federal government cajoling and threatening print media. Fletcher notes that there is that sort of back and forth with the press, but Alito is getting at the central unsettled element in all of these cases. The platforms are something different, they provide pipelines, but through their algorithms and rules they are also applying their own version of editorial standards.

Justice Alito just demonstrated that he has bought into the misinformation in the lower court’s work, citing an example where a White House official said in an email to Facebook. “I want an answer on what happened here and I want it today.” In reality that (inappropriate) language was about getting a technical problem fixed with the presidential Instagram account, not about content moderation.

When Fletcher, the government lawyer, points out that the example Alito cited as happening repeatedly actually only happened once and had nothing to do with content moderation, Alito blows past the demonstration of his misunderstanding. “OK, well, put that aside. There’s all the rest.”

Fletcher raised an issue that some experts and research organizations involved in the case have: that many of communications cited in the lower courts included disputed facts, including quotations taken out of context.

Terry A. Doughty, the Trump-appointed district court judge who set the case off (after the Republican plaintiffs filed it in a place that would ensure he got the case) issued a ruling that has itself been criticized as being riddled with misinformation and conspiracy theories about what happened, setting up an unreliable factual record for the constitutional issues at play.

Here’s a recent item on the Just Security website that catalogs many ways Doughty torqued the facts to play into right-wing culture war notions — for example, falsely editing a quote in an email to Dr. Anthony Fauci to remove the word “published” before the words “take down” in a way that made it look like a scientist was urging steps to remove misinformation about vaccines, as opposed to publishing a rebuttal to it.

That goes to another major question in the case — did government action directly cause platforms to remove speech? The government has argued that it left it to platforms to make their own decisions as it flagged and even cajoled the companies about content.

Justice Samuel Alito and Fletcher, the government lawyer, are sparring over whether there are sufficient facts to show that the plaintiffs’ injuries — having their posts taken down to having accounts suspended by social media companies — were caused by government actions, giving them standing to seek an injunction. This is a major problem with this case, according to many legal observers.

The question, as the rhetoric in the case has gone so far, is whether the White House used its classic “bully pulpit” or used its “pulpit to bully.”

Brian Fletcher, the principal deputy solicitor general for the Biden administration, argues that the government has a right to speak to social media companies in an attempt to persuade them to choose to remove or reduce certain matters, so long as it does not coerce them. He said the test should be whether the government makes threats; bully-pulpit exhortations are protected by the First Amendment, he argued.

Michael D. Shear and David McCabe

Here’s how a Trump-appointed judge saw the Biden administration pressuring companies to censor speech.

This First Amendment case is a flashpoint in a broader effort by conservatives to document what they contend is a liberal conspiracy by Democrats and tech company executives to silence their views, and it taps into fury on the right about how social media companies have treated stories about the origins of Covid, the 2020 election and Hunter Biden, the president’s son.

The final outcome could shape the future of First Amendment law in a rapidly changing media environment and alter how far the government can go in trying to prevent the spread of potentially dangerous claims, particularly in an election or during emergencies like a pandemic.

The government’s actions at the heart of the case were intended largely as public health measures during the coronavirus pandemic. But a federal judge in Louisiana framed his ruling back in July through the filter of partisan culture wars — asking whether the government violated the First Amendment by unlawfully threatening the social media companies to censor speech that the Biden administration found distasteful and potentially harmful to the public.

In his ruling, Judge Terry A. Doughty described dozens of interactions between the administration and social media companies, including how two months after President Biden took office, his top digital adviser had emailed officials at Facebook urging them to do more to limit the spread of “vaccine hesitancy” on the social media platform.

Judge Doughty also outlined how officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had held “weekly sync” meetings with Facebook, once emailing the company 16 “misinformation” posts. And in the summer of 2021, he wrote, the surgeon general’s top aide had repeatedly urged Google, Facebook and Twitter to do more to combat disinformation.

The case sets up a showdown between the justices and a conservative appeals court.

The appeals court that partly upheld limits on the Biden administration’s communications with social media companies has a reputation for issuing decisions too conservative for the Supreme Court, which is itself tilted to the right by a six-justice supermajority of Republican appointees.

Of the appeals court’s 17 active judges, only five were appointed by Democratic presidents. Six members of the court were appointed by President Donald J. Trump.

The court, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, in New Orleans, hears appeals from federal trial courts in Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. Those forums often attract ambitious lawsuits from conservative litigants correctly anticipating a favorable reception, and rulings from trial judges in those states are often affirmed by the Fifth Circuit.

But when those cases reach the Supreme Court, they sometimes fizzle out. An attack on the constitutionality of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, endorsed by three Trump appointees on the Fifth Circuit, did not seem to fare well before the justices when it was argued in October. Another, in which the Fifth Circuit struck down a federal law barring domestic abusers from carrying guns, was also met with skepticism .

Other rulings from the Fifth Circuit, on issues like immigration , abortion pills and so-called ghost guns , have also met with at least tentative disapproval from the Supreme Court, suggesting that the appeals court is out of step with the justices.

At a news briefing in September, Irv Gornstein, the executive director of Georgetown’s Supreme Court Institute, said the Fifth Circuit had staked out positions that “at least some of the center bloc of conservatives aren’t going to be able to stomach.”

He added that some of the rulings by the Fifth Circuit were “delivered from Crazy Town” and that “it would be shocking if at least some of those decisions are not reversed.”

The case is one of several about the intersection of free speech and technology on the court’s docket.

The Supreme Court hears First Amendment cases fairly often. But it has never before considered as many cases on what the Constitution has to say about free speech in the internet era as it will in its current term, set to end in June.

Monday’s argument will be the fifth one since October considering the fundamental question of the scope of government power over social media platforms. The decision in that case and the four others will collectively mark the boundaries of free expression in the digital age.

Last month, the Supreme Court considered two cases on whether Florida and Texas could limit prominent social media companies from moderating content on their platforms, appearing skeptical of the breadth of laws that had been enacted in an effort to shield conservative voices on technology sites.

On Friday, the court, in two unanimous rulings, set requirements for when elected officials could block people from their social media accounts.

The court’s decisions in the five cases will have broad political and economic implications. A ruling that tech platforms have no editorial discretion to decide which posts to allow, for instance, would expose users to a greater variety of viewpoints, but it would almost certainly amplify the ugliest aspects of the digital age, including hate speech and disinformation.

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130 Inspiring Persuasive Speech Topics For Students
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.
How to Create and Organize a Persuasive Speech That Resonates With Your
Types of Persuasive Speech. With the ubiquity of social media, it's easy to think that public speaking is a relic of the past. But this is far from the case, and it is still highly valued in many professions. ... It is also necessary to encourage further reflection on your persuasive speech topic. Useful Tips for Writing a Persuasive Speech.
Supreme Court tackles social media and free speech : NPR
Supreme Court tackles social media and free speech In a major First Amendment case, the Supreme Court heard arguments on the federal government's ability to combat what it sees as false, ...
Supreme Court to hear free speech case over government pressure on
The case poses a significant test of the First Amendment's free speech protections in the digital age and stems from the Biden administration's efforts to pressure social media platforms to remove ...
Highlights From the Supreme Court Arguments on Free Speech and Social
A second argument on Monday posed a related constitutional question about government power and free speech, though not in the context of social media sites. It concerns whether a state official in ...
Murthy v. Missouri and Government Urging Platforms to Restrict Speech
Yet now much private speech has moved off government property and onto "the modern public square" of social media. The mails are less important than ever before, I think. The mails are less ...

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112 Persuasive Speech Topics That Are Actually Engaging

Choose Something You’re Passionate About

Steer Clear of Cliches

Have a Clear Side of Opposition

Environment

Science & Technology

Social Media

Parenting & Family

Entertainment

Arts & Humanities

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Understand Your Audience

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125+ Persuasive Speech Topics To Amaze Your Audience

125+ Topics for a Persuasive Speech

1. Arts & Culture

2. Economics

3. Education

4. Environment

7. Politics

9. Technology

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What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

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

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It Isn't Overdone

105 Topics for a Persuasive Speech

Arts/Culture

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