101 Standout Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas: Engage Your Readers with Interesting and Controversial Subjects

101 Standout Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas: Engage Your Readers with Interesting and Controversial Subjects

Are you struggling to find the perfect argumentative essay topic? Look no further! In this article, we have compiled a list of 120+ thought-provoking, controversial, and interesting subjects that will engage your readers and make your essay stand out. Whether you are interested in sociology, politics, science, health, or any other field, we have got you covered!

Before we dive into the list, it’s important to note that choosing the right topic is crucial. It shows your readers your interests, your stance on various issues, and your ability to think critically and present strong arguments. It also helps you boost your own mental and personal development as you dive into research and articulate your thoughts.



When selecting a topic, consider the audience you are writing for and what topic would resonate with them. Take into account the current social, political, and cultural climate as well as controversial subjects that are likely to ignite a passionate response. Keep in mind that you can also choose an easy and well-known topic and put a unique spin on it to make it more interesting for yourself and your readers.

Standout Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

Here’s a list of 101 standout argumentative essay topic ideas divided into various categories:

Government and Politics:

  • Should laws on hate speech be stricter?
  • What can be done to ensure everyone’s freedom of speech?
  • Is the government doing enough to protect individual rights?
  • How does media influence the political views of Americans?
  • Should there be term limits for politicians?

Social Issues and Ethics:

  • Should the death penalty be abolished?
  • Is it ethical to use animals for scientific research?
  • What can be done to combat ignorance and stereotypes in society?
  • Should college be free for everyone?
  • Is social media making people more disconnected?

Education and College Life:

  • Should colleges prioritize mental health issues?
  • Is standardized testing an accurate measure of intelligence?
  • What are the benefits of having a diverse college campus?
  • How can colleges promote healthier lifestyles among students?
  • Should college athletes be paid?

Science and Technology:

  • Are humans too dependent on technology?
  • Should genetically modified organisms (GMOs) be labeled?
  • What are the potential risks and benefits of artificial intelligence?
  • Should the government fund space travel and exploration?
  • Is it ethical to conduct scientific experiments on animals?
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Health and Wellness:

  • Should healthcare be a right for all?
  • What steps can individuals take to promote mental health?
  • Is there a link between mental illness and creativity?
  • How can society destigmatize mental health issues?
  • Is alternative medicine a valid treatment option?

Travel and Exploration:

  • Should governments restrict tourism in certain areas?
  • How does travel contribute to a person’s character development?
  • Is it better to travel alone or in a group?
  • What are the environmental impacts of mass tourism?
  • Should countries give priority to local tourism over international tourism?

These are just a few examples of the compelling and thought-provoking topics you can choose for your argumentative essay. Remember to choose a topic that interests you and that allows for solid arguments and counter-arguments. Happy writing!

Engage Your Readers with Interesting and Controversial Subjects

Sports and Recreation



  • The role of sports in education
  • The impact of technology on sports
  • Freedom of speech in professional sports

Mental Health and Illness

  • The stigma surrounding mental illness
  • The impact of social media on mental health
  • The role of arts and creativity in mental health

Work and Careers

  • The importance of work-life balance
  • The future of automation in the workforce
  • The impact of college education on career success

Politics and Policies



  • The role of social media in shaping political opinions
  • The impact of immigration policies
  • The influence of money in politics

Technology and Society

  • The ethical implications of artificial intelligence
  • The effects of social media on personal relationships
  • The role of technology in shaping the future of work

Education and Learning

  • The value of standardized testing
  • The impact of technology in the classroom
  • The importance of arts education in schools

These are just a few examples of the many interesting and controversial topics you could choose for your argumentative essay. The key is to find a subject that you’re passionate about and that you believe will engage and provoke a response from your readers. By considering current events, general knowledge, and moral and ethical issues, you can form a strong and persuasive argument that is sure to make an impact.

Remember, choosing a topic is only the first step. To achieve a standout essay, it takes careful research, critical thinking, and well-formed arguments. But with the right topic, you’re already on your way to writing a great article that will not only inform and entertain but also challenge and inspire.

So go ahead, pick that controversial and intriguing subject and get started on crafting your argumentative essay. Your readers will thank you for it!

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Got No Time to Write Argumentative Essays?

To begin, it is essential to choose a solid topic that you are passionate about. Consider selecting a hot and controversial issue that sparks your interest, such as the impact of social media on teenagers’ mental health or the role of government in shaping education policies.

Once you have chosen a topic, the first thing you need to do is to research and gather relevant information to support your views. This involves conducting thorough research and critically thinking about different perspectives to develop a well-rounded argument.

After gathering the necessary data, it is crucial to create an outline to structure your essay effectively. This will help you organize your thoughts and ensure that your arguments flow logically.

In addition to presenting your arguments, it is also essential to address counterarguments and refute them with solid evidence. This demonstrates your understanding of the topic and strengthens your overall argument.

Moreover, incorporating ethical and moral considerations into your essay can make it more persuasive and thought-provoking. For example, discussing the ethical implications of widespread access to medical treatments or the moral responsibilities of the government towards its citizens can add depth to your argument.

Furthermore, writing in a concise and clear manner is essential in argumentative essays. Avoid using jargon or complex language, and instead, focus on communicating your ideas effectively to a wider audience.

Lastly, don’t forget to proofread and edit your essay before submitting it. This will help you identify any grammatical or spelling errors and ensure that your essay is well-polished and professional.

FAQ

What is an argumentative essay?

An argumentative essay is a type of essay where the writer presents a well-reasoned argument on a particular topic or issue. The writer takes a stance and supports it with evidence and logical reasoning.

What makes a good argumentative topic?

A good argumentative topic is one that is controversial and can be debated from different perspectives. It should be an issue that has enough evidence and relevant arguments to support both sides of the debate.

Can you give some examples of argumentative essay topics?

Sure! Some examples of argumentative essay topics could be: Should the death penalty be abolished? Should students be required to wear school uniforms? Is climate change caused by human activities? Should animal testing be banned? Should marijuana be legalized?

How do I choose a topic for my argumentative essay?

When choosing a topic for your argumentative essay, consider your own interests and knowledge. Choose a topic that you are passionate about and that you have enough information to support your arguments. It’s also important to consider the audience and their potential interest in the topic.

What are some tips for writing a strong argumentative essay?

Some tips for writing a strong argumentative essay include: clearly stating your thesis or main argument in the introduction, providing strong evidence and examples to support your claims, addressing counterarguments and refuting them, using clear and logical reasoning throughout the essay, and concluding with a strong and persuasive summary of your argument.

Alex Koliada, PhD

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.