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300+ Controversial Research Topics

Controversial research topics are a vital aspect of scientific inquiry, as they often challenge existing assumptions and generate debates among experts in the field. These topics can range from ethical dilemmas to scientific controversies that challenge traditional thinking, and can spark heated discussions and disagreements. However, it is through exploring and investigating these controversial topics that researchers can uncover new insights, theories , and methodologies that ultimately drive progress and innovation in their respective fields. While controversial research topics can be complex and contentious, they also offer opportunities for growth and learning as scientists work to uncover the truth and push the boundaries of what is currently known.

Controversial Research Topics

Controversial Research Topics are as follows:

• The impact of genetically modified organisms on human health.
• The use of embryonic stem cells for medical research.
• The effectiveness of abstinence-only sex education.
• The effects of violent video games on children and adolescents.
• The link between intelligence and race.
• The legalization of marijuana.
• The use of performance-enhancing drugs in sports.
• The existence of paranormal phenomena.
• The impact of social media on mental health.
• The effects of climate change on the global economy.
• The use of animals in scientific research.
• The impact of immigration on the economy and culture.
• The benefits and drawbacks of homeschooling.
• The link between vaccines and autism.
• The benefits and risks of gene editing.
• The impact of artificial intelligence on employment.
• The effects of sugar consumption on human health.
• The ethics of human cloning.
• The effects of globalization on the environment.
• The impact of minimum wage laws on employment and the economy.
• The effects of bilingual education on academic achievement.
• The relationship between gun control and crime rates.
• The effects of spanking on child development.
• The impact of media bias on public opinion.
• The relationship between poverty and crime.
• The effects of same-sex marriage on society.
• The impact of nuclear power on the environment.
• The effects of air pollution on human health.
• The impact of the pharmaceutical industry on healthcare.
• The impact of artificial sweeteners on human health.
• The effects of divorce on children.
• The impact of music on behavior and emotions.
• The effects of solitary confinement on prisoners.
• The impact of mandatory minimum sentences on the criminal justice system.
• The effects of standardized testing on education.
• The impact of affirmative action on employment and education.
• The effects of social media on political polarization.
• The effects of immigration policies on families and communities.
• The impact of diet on mental health.
• The ethics of animal testing.
• The impact of technology on human relationships.
• The impact of the gig economy on workers’ rights.
• The effects of corporal punishment in schools.
• The impact of income inequality on society.
• The effects of video game addiction on mental health.
• The effects of police brutality on society.
• The impact of the gig economy on the economy as a whole.
• The effects of alternative medicine on human health.
• The impact of military spending on the economy.
• The effects of censorship on free speech.
• The safety and effectiveness of vaccines.
• The existence of extraterrestrial life.
• The impact of climate change on national security.
• The use of genetically modified organisms in food production.
• The impact of social media on political elections.
• The ethics of artificial intelligence.
• The impact of immigration on national security.
• The effectiveness of gun control laws.
• The ethics of animal rights.
• The impact of video game violence on real-world violence.
• The impact of cell phone radiation on human health.
• The impact of the opioid epidemic on society.
• The effectiveness of alternative medicine.
• The ethics of physician-assisted suicide.
• The impact of globalization on human rights.
• The impact of the gig economy on labor rights.
• The impact of income inequality on social mobility.
• The ethics of gene editing in humans.
• The impact of trade agreements on the economy.
• The ethics of cloning.
• The impact of solitary confinement on mental health.
• The effectiveness of mandatory minimum sentencing laws.
• The ethics of animal agriculture.
• The impact of poverty on mental health.
• The effectiveness of sex education in schools.
• The impact of cultural appropriation on society.
• The ethics of using animals in entertainment.
• The impact of air pollution on human health.
• The impact of artificial intelligence on privacy.
• The ethics of using drones in warfare.
• The effectiveness of rehabilitation programs in prisons.
• The impact of genetically modified crops on the environment.
• The ethics of surrogacy.
• The impact of the gig economy on social welfare programs.
• The impact of social media on interpersonal relationships.
• The ethics of euthanasia.
• The impact of the Internet on society.
• The effectiveness of affirmative action policies.
• The impact of social media on youth development.
• The impact of renewable energy on the economy.
• The impact of cyberbullying on mental health.
• The ethics of human-animal hybrids.
• The impact of overpopulation on the environment.
• The impact of social media on political polarization.
• The impact of social media on mental health and well-being.
• The effects of violent video games on aggressive behavior in children and adolescents.
• The effects of homeschooling on academic achievement and social development.
• The ethics of human cloning for reproductive purposes.
• The impact of religious fundamentalism on political extremism and violence.
• The effects of poverty on child development and educational outcomes.
• The ethics of physician-assisted suicide for terminally ill patients.
• The impact of social media on political polarization and democracy.
• The effects of bilingual education on language proficiency and academic success.
• The ethics of genetically modifying human embryos for non-medical purposes.
• The impact of affirmative action on college admissions and diversity.
• The effects of mindfulness meditation on mental health and well-being.
• The ethics of animal rights and the use of animals for human consumption.
• The impact of the gig economy on worker rights and job security.
• The effects of minimum wage policies on employment and poverty reduction.
• The ethics of using human embryos for stem cell research.
• The impact of economic globalization on income inequality and economic growth.
• The effects of mandatory drug testing in the workplace on employee privacy and productivity.
• The ethics of organ donation and the sale of organs for transplantation.
• The impact of social class on educational opportunities and academic achievement.
• The effects of video game violence on aggressive behavior in youth.
• The ethics of artificial intelligence and autonomous decision-making.
• The impact of gun culture on gun violence and public safety.
• The effects of parental involvement in education on academic achievement.
• The ethics of animal euthanasia and animal rights.
• The impact of prison privatization on criminal justice and rehabilitation.
• The effects of solitary confinement on mental health and prisoner rights.
• The ethics of using performance-enhancing drugs in sports.
• The impact of globalization on cultural identity and cultural preservation.
• The effects of medical marijuana on pain management and addiction.
• The ethics of using animals for animal testing and experimentation.
• The impact of media bias on public opinion and political polarization.
• The effects of youth sports specialization on athletic performance and injury rates.
• The ethics of using drones for military and civilian purposes.
• The impact of the obesity epidemic on healthcare costs and public health.
• The effects of gender stereotypes on career choices and gender equality.
• The ethics of surrogacy and the commercialization of reproduction.
• The impact of social media on body image and self-esteem.
• The effects of cyberbullying on mental health and social relationships.
• The ethics of animal euthanasia and humane animal control.
• The impact of artificial intelligence on job displacement and retraining.
• The effects of mandatory school uniforms on student behavior and academic performance.
• The ethics of using genetically modified crops for food production.
• The impact of immigration on cultural assimilation and diversity.
• The effects of peer pressure on adolescent behavior and decision-making.
• The ethics of using animals for zoos and aquariums.
• The impact of natural disasters on social inequality and disaster response.
• The effects of childhood trauma on adult mental health and well-being.
• The ethics of using gene editing to create “designer babies”.
• The impact of gentrification on urban communities and displacement.
• The effects of income inequality on political representation and corruption.
• The ethics of using animals for entertainment, such as in theme parks and circuses.
• The effects of pornography on sexual behavior and attitudes towards women.
• The ethics of gene editing in human embryos for disease prevention.
• The effects of affirmative action on workplace diversity and discrimination.
• The ethics of animal testing for cosmetic purposes.
• The impact of immigration on economic growth and job creation.
• The effects of gun control policies on crime rates and public safety.
• The ethics of euthanasia for patients with severe disabilities.
• The impact of income inequality on social mobility and economic opportunity.
• The effects of online dating on relationships and marriage.
• The ethics of using animals for scientific experimentation.
• The impact of climate change on global migration patterns.
• The effects of standardized testing on student learning and teacher accountability.
• The ethics of using social media data for targeted advertising.
• The impact of artificial intelligence on employment and job displacement.
• The effects of genetically modified organisms on human health and the environment.
• The ethics of surrogacy and the commodification of pregnancy.
• The impact of the #MeToo movement on workplace culture and gender equality.
• The effects of mandatory vaccination policies on public health and individual autonomy.
• The ethics of using embryonic stem cells for medical research.
• The impact of media censorship on freedom of speech and expression.
• The effects of school vouchers on education equity and public education.
• The ethics of animal agriculture and the environmental impact of meat consumption.
• The impact of social media algorithms on political polarization and misinformation.
• The effects of mass incarceration on communities of color and criminal justice reform.
• The ethics of human genetic engineering for athletic performance enhancement.
• The impact of artificial intelligence on privacy and personal data protection.
• The effects of teacher tenure on teacher effectiveness and student achievement.
• The ethics of autonomous weapons systems and the future of warfare.
• The impact of affirmative action on college admissions and meritocracy.
• The effects of social media on youth mental health and addiction.
• The ethics of using human tissue for medical research.
• The impact of hydraulic fracturing on the environment and public health.
• The effects of school discipline policies on student success and racial disparities.
• The ethics of using animal organs for human transplantation.
• The impact of trade policies on international development and economic inequality.
• The effects of workplace surveillance on employee privacy and productivity.
• The ethics of human enhancement technologies and the implications for society.
• The impact of renewable energy on energy independence and national security.
• The effects of immigration policies on family separation and human rights.
• The ethics of using gene editing to enhance intelligence and cognitive abilities.
• The impact of social media on political activism and social movements.
• The effects of mandatory minimum sentences on criminal justice and recidivism rates.
• The ethics of using nanotechnology for medical treatment and enhancement.
• The impact of artificial intelligence on democracy and political participation.
• The effects of parental involvement in education on student achievement.
• The ethics of using animals for entertainment, such as in circuses and aquariums.
• The impact of mass surveillance on civil liberties and government transparency.
• The effects of school segregation on educational opportunities and social mobility.
• The ethics of using human embryonic stem cells for medical research.
• The impact of social media on political polarization and division.
• The effects of affirmative action policies on college admissions.
• The ethics of using animals for food and cosmetic testing.
• The impact of immigration policies on national security.
• The effects of e-cigarettes on lung health and smoking cessation.
• The ethics of cloning animals for commercial purposes.
• The impact of the war on drugs on public health and criminal justice.
• The effects of homeschooling on academic achievement and socialization.
• The impact of income tax policies on economic growth.
• The effects of police body cameras on accountability and transparency.
• The impact of artificial intelligence on human creativity and innovation.
• The effects of globalization on job outsourcing and economic inequality.
• The ethics of animal testing for medical research.
• The impact of mandatory minimum sentences on criminal justice and rehabilitation.
• The ethics of using human stem cells for medical research.
• The impact of social media on body image and eating disorders.
• The effects of the death penalty on crime deterrence and human rights.
• The ethics of using genetically modified crops for commercial agriculture.
• The impact of social media on romantic relationships and dating culture.
• The effects of standardized testing on teacher effectiveness and job satisfaction.
• The ethics of using drones for military strikes and surveillance.
• The impact of minimum wage policies on poverty and unemployment.
• The effects of workplace diversity and inclusion initiatives on productivity and morale.
• The ethics of using animals for entertainment purposes, such as in circuses or zoos.
• The impact of climate change on global economic growth and stability.
• The effects of solitary confinement on mental health and recidivism rates.
• The impact of the gig economy on worker exploitation and income insecurity.
• The effects of medical marijuana on pain management and opioid addiction.
• The ethics of using virtual reality for military training and simulation.
• The impact of school choice policies on education equity and segregation.
• The effects of noise pollution on mental and physical health.
• The ethics of using animal products for clothing and fashion.
• The impact of artificial intelligence on artistic expression and creativity.
• The effects of prison privatization on criminal justice and human rights.
• The ethics of using robots for elder care and healthcare.
• The impact of affirmative action policies on workplace diversity and inclusion.
• The effects of social media on adolescent self-esteem and body image.
• The ethics of using human organs for transplant research.
• The impact of drone strikes on civilian casualties and international law.
• The effects of microplastic pollution on human health and the environment.
• The ethics of animal cloning for livestock production.
• The impact of renewable energy on job creation and economic growth.
• The effects of occupational licensing on job opportunities and consumer protection.
• The ethics of using artificial intelligence in decision-making processes in the criminal justice system.
• The effects of climate change on global migration patterns.
• The ethics of genetically modifying human embryos.
• The impact of the meat industry on the environment and animal welfare.
• The efficacy and safety of alternative medicine treatments.
• The effects of marijuana legalization on crime rates.
• The ethics of using animals for scientific research.
• The effects of childhood trauma on adult mental health.
• The impact of technology on privacy and personal data protection.
• The effects of gun ownership on public safety.
• The ethics of gene editing to enhance physical and cognitive abilities.
• The impact of gentrification on urban communities.
• The effects of long-term space travel on human health.
• The ethics of using human subjects in medical research.
• The impact of income inequality on access to healthcare.
• The effects of the gig economy on workers’ rights and protections.
• The ethics of using non-human animals for food consumption.
• The impact of social media on political discourse and democracy.
• The effects of standardized testing on educational outcomes.
• The ethics of using autonomous weapons in warfare.
• The impact of income tax policies on economic inequality.
• The effects of urbanization on mental health and well-being.
• The ethics of using artificial intelligence for military applications.
• The impact of population growth on the environment and natural resources.
• The effects of screen time on children’s cognitive development.
• The ethics of surrogacy and reproductive technology.
• The impact of mental health stigma on access to care and treatment.
• The ethics of animal captivity and entertainment.
• The impact of the opioid epidemic on public health and safety.
• The effects of universal basic income on economic stability and well-being.
• The ethics of using genetic data for personalized medicine.
• The impact of the gig economy on income and wealth inequality.
• The effects of systemic racism on health outcomes and access to care.
• The ethics of using drones for civilian surveillance and law enforcement.
• The impact of social media algorithms on the spread of misinformation and polarization.
• The effects of childhood vaccination requirements on public health.
• The ethics of artificial intelligence in decision-making processes.
• The impact of global trade agreements on human rights and labor practices.
• The effects of nuclear energy on public health and the environment.
• The ethics of using gene editing for non-medical purposes.
• The impact of artificial sweeteners on human health and obesity rates.
• The effects of childhood obesity on long-term health outcomes.
• The ethics of using artificial intelligence for facial recognition technology.
• The impact of immigration policies on education outcomes and access.
• The effects of parental socioeconomic status on children’s academic achievement.
• The ethics of human genetic engineering for aesthetic purposes.
• The impact of deforestation on climate change and biodiversity loss.
• The effectiveness of the death penalty in reducing crime rates.
• The ethics of animal testing in scientific research.
• The impact of climate change on the global economy.
• The use of genetically modified organisms in agriculture.
• The ethics of embryonic stem cell research.
• The effects of pornography on society.
• The impact of globalization on employment and wages.
• The impact of artificial intelligence on society.
• The relationship between race and intelligence.
• The effects of minimum wage laws on employment and the economy.
• The effects of poverty on child development.
• The effects of video game violence on real-world violence.
• The impact of globalization on the environment.
• The effects of social media on interpersonal relationships.
• The impact of air travel on the environment.
• The impact of animal agriculture on the environment.
• The impact of solitary confinement on prisoners.

About the author

Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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Research Topic Ideas

• Picking a Topic
• Area & Interdisciplinary Studies
• Behavioral & Social Sciences
• Business, Economics, & Management

Not Sure Which Topic to Choose?

Controversial issues and current events, flint water crisis.

• Education & Social Work
• Health Sciences
• Natural and Physical Sciences

Look at the "Picking a Topic" tab on this guide for help brainstorming your topic. Also, our Research Process guide can help you throughout your research process.

• Research Process by Liz Svoboda Last Updated Mar 1, 2024 6815 views this year
• Affirmative Action
• Affordable Care Act
• Alternative medicine
• America's global influence
• Artificial intelligence
• Assisted suicide
• Bilingual education
• Black Lives Matter
• Border security
• Capital punishment
• Charter schools
• Childhood obesity
• Civil rights
• Climate change
• Concussions in football
• COVID restrictions
• Cryptocurrency
• Cyber bullying
• Cybersecurity
• Drug legalization
• Early voting
• Eating disorders
• Equal Rights Amendment
• Executive order
• Factory farming
• Foreign aid
• Freedom of speech
• General Data Protection Regulation
• Genetic engineering
• Gerrymandering
• Green New Deal
• Hate speech
• Health insurance
• Human trafficking
• Immigration
• Israel-Palestine relations
• Judicial activism
• Labor unions
• Land acknowledgments
• #MeToo movement
• Minimum wage
• Misinformation
• Net neutrality
• Nuclear energy
• Offshore drilling
• Online anonymity
• Organic food
• Outsourcing
• Police reform
• Political activism
• Prescription drug addiction
• Racial profiling
• Reparations
• Russian hacking
• Sanctuary city
• Screen addiction
• Self-driving cars
• Sex education
• Smart speakers
• Social Security reform
• Standardized testing
• Stimulus packages
• Supreme Court confirmation
• Syrian civil war
• Title IX enforcement
• Trade tariffs
• Transgender rights
• Ukraine and Russia
• Urban agriculture
• Vaccination mandates
• Violence in the media
• Voter ID laws
• Voting fraud and security
• White nationalism
• Women's rights
• Zero tolerance policies

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601 Controversial Questions & Topics for Research, Essays, & Debate

People constantly participate in passionate debates about sensitive and divisive societal issues. Some may utilize memes or social media to discuss hot topics, while others join online forums and blogs. Even though controversial topics are believed to address trivial issues, many may have a tangible impact on the world and global problems.

Below, you’ll find a list of controversial questions and topics for research that can come in handy on days when you lack inspiration!

🔝 Top 10 Controversial Questions in 2024

🤔 most controversial questions — and why.

• 🏫 Topics for High School Students
• 🎓 Topics for College Students

🔎 Controversial Research Topics

• 📝 Controversial Argumentative Topics

💼 Controversial Business Topics

🏥 controversial medical topics, 🔬 controversial science topics, 💡 controversial philosophical questions, 😛 funny controversial topics, 🗣️ controversial debate topics, 🔗 references.

• Why should brain control techniques in psychology be banned?
• How to stop sexual abuse in the motion picture industry?
• How is homosexuality discriminated against in the 21st century?
• Does drug control help to reduce drug consumption among teenagers?
• What is the role of plastic pollution in global warming?
• How to make domestic violence victims speak out?
• Why are alternatives to prison sentences more effective?
• What is the impact of human overpopulation on food security?
• What is the positive impact of free trade on the international market?
• Why do abusive power and control often take part in modern relationships?

A controversial topic differs from others in that it causes considerable disagreement, debate, and varied emotional reactions in society. It usually involves opposing points of view, beliefs, or interests.

Below, we’ve listed several most controversial questions and explained what makes them such.

❔ Should abortion be legalized around the world?

Abortion is controversial due to its ethical, moral, and legal consequences. It raises the question of the fetus’ rights to life and a person’s right to govern their own body.

❔ What are the most effective measures to prevent gun violence?

Gun control is among the most controversial and emotional topics in many nations. Its discussion is mainly centered around two questions:

• Can the limit on people’s right to bear weapons be considered an unfair restriction on liberty?
• Is there a link between gun ownership and crime?

❔ Should capital punishment be canceled?

Opponents of the death sentence point out its inhumanity, irreversibility, and unfairness due to the persistence of racial and economic inequalities. Proponents believe that it is reasonable retribution for specific acts and is effective in deterring crime and protecting society.

❔ To what degree should freedom of speech be protected?

Freedom of speech is controversial because society struggles to define its limits. There is still a need to find a balance between safeguarding the freedom of expression and protecting individuals against the harm caused by speech.

❔ What measures should be taken to stop global warming?

The global warming controversy refers to the public dispute over whether the planet is getting warmer. Also, people argue about the leading causes of climate change, its consequences, and methods to stop it.

🏫 Controversial Topics for High School Students

Investigating controversial topics may help high school students develop critical thinking skills, engage in meaningful dialogues, and expand their awareness of challenging social issues. Below you can find some controversial questions for students!

• Should sports classes in school be mandatory?
• Abortion as a controversy .
• Why can technologies destroy the world?
• The benefits of year-round school.
• Circumcision as a controversial topic in the United States .
• Social networks make people less social.
• Alcohol should be banned under 25.
• Child labor and exploitation controversies .
• Bad parenting is a leading reason for childhood obesity .
• Is it time to decriminalize prostitution ?
• Same-sex marriage as a moral controversy .
• Happiness is more crucial than a career.
• Zoos around the world should be closed.
• The controversy over marijuana legalization .
• Why will cryptocurrencies replace cash?
• The institution of marriage is a relic of the past.
• Genetic engineering and cloning controversy .
• Climate change has already become irreversible.
• Why is playing online games a sport?
• Controversy about global warming: skepticism and reality .
• Alternative medicines are more dangerous than helpful.
• Why is remote studying the future of education?
• Victorian period corset controversy .
• Leisure time is critical for working productivity.
• Is nationalism beneficial or harmful?
• The Barbie doll controversy in a Latinx community .
• The government should permit gay couples to adopt children .
• The positive side of smoking and vaping .
• Why is immigration a controversial topic in the US ?
• Should we outlaw the use of fatal force by police ?

🎓 Controversial Topics for College Students

Controversial topics often reflect current social challenges , allowing college students to contribute to discussions and decisions that influence the world around them. Look at the most interesting controversial debate questions for college that we have prepared for you!

• The crime behind animal testing in the beauty industry.
• Biracial adoption and its controversies .
• Why are many people ignoring cybersecurity ?
• The benefits of expanding stem cell research .
• The gun control controversy in the constitutional context .
• Why should churches and religious institutions pay taxes?
• The issue of media bias and discrimination in the modern world.
• Women in army infantry: controversial issues .
• Non-chemical cleaning products: worth the cost or not?
• Capitalism is an economic system that perpetuates inequality.
• The United States Patriot Act controversies .
• Should the death penalty be abolished in the US?
• The effectiveness of using hacking skills in business.
• Ethical controversies in COVID-19 pandemic regulations .
• Why is being transgender not a gender disorder ?
• The risk of religious discrimination in a multi-cultured society.
• Controversial art and censorship .
• Does a smoking ban reduce lung cancer rates?
• The influence of mixed-race backgrounds on personal development.
• Minimum wage policy and its impact: controversy .
• The importance of policies and religious accommodations at the workplace.
• How to raise awareness of women’s rights in society?
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder diagnosis controversy .
• Legalization of marijuana for medical usage: for and against.
• What are the potentially harmful effects of consuming genetically modified food ?
• Dementia and its controversial treatment .
• The effects of globalization on national economies and job losses.
• How to reduce the incidence of alcoholism and drug addiction in society?
• The Jamestown massacre controversy .
• The efficiency of drug testing programs in schools .

Controversial research topics inspire discussions and push limits on established beliefs. In the following paragraphs, you can find risky but interesting controversial questions for your future study!

Controversial Topics in Education

• How do cell phones decrease learning productivity?
• The role of textbooks in education .
• The impact of fast food on students’ learning skills.
• Do armed guards reduce crime rates in schools?
• Why does education require political intervention ?
• The negative side of individualized approach in education .
• Advantages and disadvantages of tracking and grouping in classes.
• School sex education and teenage pregnancy in the United States .
• Does a college education lower the unemployment rate ?
• Early childhood education and its influence on success in the future.
• Education: internet courses versus traditional courses .
• Does a low level of IQ affect academic performance?
• The importance of detention in disciplining students.
• Labeling in special education .
• Does homeschooling provide a better education than traditional schooling?

Controversial Psychology Topics

• What factors contribute to the persistence of stereotypes in diverse societies?
• Psychology: happiness as a way of living .
• The impact of advertising on the human brain and mental health.
• How does yoga affect a person’s mental state?
• Gaming influence on psychology and personality .
• The effect of biological factors on sexual orientation .
• Do violent video games influence real-life aggression?
• Psychology: does a criminal mind exist ?
• Placebo effect and its role in demonstrating the power of the mind.
• Can psychological profiling accurately forecast criminal behavior?
• Psychological testing: beneficial or harmful ?
• The impact of subconscious biases on decision-making.
• Does testimony from witnesses properly represent historical events?
• Experimental psychology: science vs. ideology .
• Do near-death experiences provide evidence of an afterlife?

Controversial Criminal Justice Topics

• Do mandatory minimum sentences lower crime rates?
• Racial bas in criminal justice systems and workplaces .
• The ethical side of capital punishment in the US .
• The role of racial bias in the criminal justice system.
• Recidivism in criminal justice: the prison system of America .
• Do private prisons put profit above inmate welfare?
• The effectiveness of body cameras in maintaining accountability and transparency.
• Ethical dilemmas in the criminal justice system .
• Is the drug war successful in lowering drug abuse?
• The impact of solitary confinement on the occurrence of mental disorders in prisoners.
• Non-inclusiveness of the criminal justice system .
• How to prevent sexual assault in the military ?
• The role of restitution in dealing with prison overcrowding .
• Cyberbullying as a criminal offense in Singapore .
• How does the prison system impact the mental health of prisoners ?

Controversial Political Questions

• Is wealth redistribution a successful way of addressing income inequality?
• Political culture: failure of democracy in Iraq .
• Do restrictive abortion policies decrease the abortion rates among teens?
• What impact do campaign funding regulations have on political corruption ?
• Mexican immigration as a political controversy .
• How do religious factors shape public opinion on LGBTQ+ rights?
• How to regulate the misinformation or propaganda inside the country?
• Abortion in Texas as a political issue .
• How does the accessibility of weapons affect the frequency of mass shootings ?
• What effect does immigration have on crime and public safety in host countries?
• Tolerance and political diversity in the US .
• Why does power concentration negatively affect press freedom?
• How do politicians reconcile private power interests and democratic values?
• Political ecologies of electronic waste: does it really make a difference ?
• What is the role of government in providing affordable healthcare ?

Controversial Environmental Topics

• Does the ban on plastic help to stop climate change?
• Environment: oil drilling in the Arctic National Refuge .
• Nuclear power as the solution for sustainable energy production.
• Can banning fast fashion be beneficial to the environment?
• The controversies of climate change .
• How does noise pollution affect marine life?
• Does recycling cause more trash in the environment?
• Global warming and the free rider problem .
• The benefits of efficient toilets in conserving water.
• The establishment of the carbon tax as a way to reduce carbon footprint.
• Global warming: myth or reality ?
• What threat to the Earth does overpopulation pose?
• The negative consequences of leftover foods in restaurants.
• It’s not my fault: global warming and moral responsibility .
• Would the ban on mining aid in preserving the environment?

📝 Controversial Argumentative Essay Topics

Controversial argumentative essay topics require the student to investigate a problem, examine the evidence, and present a concise viewpoint on an issue. Some of the hottest topics are already waiting for you below!

• Should athletes be checked for steroid usage regularly?
• The controversy between free will and determinism .
• Procrastination has a negative influence on critical thinking.
• Pharmacies should provide teenagers with free contraception.
• Operation Geronimo: controversy and the legal authority .
• Torture can be efficient in solving some crimes.
• Why should computer addiction be treated seriously?
• Should illegal immigrants be made legal citizens ?
• Prenuptial agreements can strengthen families’ relationships.
• Why should media violence be censored?
• Should smoking be illegal ?
• Are social networks helpful, or are they just a waste of time?
• Cyberbullying should have legal consequences.
• Have “three-strikes” laws been effective and should they be continued ?
• Religious courses should be mandatory for everyone.
• Why is modern technology too isolating?
• Should Georgia legalize gambling to raise revenue ?
• Tourist tax is essential to protect cultural heritage .
• All individuals should have the right to possess firearms.
• The Right-to-Die bill: why all states should pass it .
• Do TV shows reinforce harmful stereotypes?
• Values of fashion should not contradict the healthy body image .

Controversial Questions About Art

• Why is the depiction of nudity in art considered vulgar?
• Pornography vs. artistic nude photographs .
• Should obscene artistic expression without “serious artistic value” be censored?
• Why is art not an objective branch of human culture?
• Graffiti as a monumental form of art .
• Can governments stop the trafficking of antiquities?
• What role does criticism play in modern art?
• Art and entertainment: is there any difference ?
• Are museums ready to cope with competition and demands for change?
• Why is visiting a theater good for cultural growth?
• Freedom of expression in artworks .
• Why are new directions in architecture widely criticized?
• Is an artwork’s worth determined by its price?
• Defining art in the past and present .
• Can graffiti be considered a legitimate form of art?

Controversial History Questions

• Is the existence of Atlantis not entirely mythical?
• How has the invention of gunpowder affected the world ?
• Why is it not true that pyramids were built by slaves in Egypt?
• What would be with Germany if Hitler had not happened?
• How did WWI change women’s role in America ?
• What was the leading cause of the American Civil War ?
• Who funded the assassins of Archduke Ferdinand?
• What led up to the assassination of Julius Caesar ?
• Why was slavery unprofitable for enslavers?
• From whom did Charles Darwin get his idea of evolution?
• Jacksonian democracy: who benefitted ?
• Why was Galileo tortured for his beliefs?
• Who actually wrote Shakespeare’s plays?
• Was the Industrial Revolution positive for society ?
• How did European pathogens cause the decline of the Cahokia and Mississippian mounds?

Controversial Opinion Questions

• Why should religion be separated from politics?
• Euthanasia in public opinion and policy-making .
• Do a person’s thoughts and behavior contribute to mental illnesses?
• How can curfews keep teens out of trouble?
• Internet in our life: personal opinion .
• Why are immigrants more of a benefit rather than a problem?
• Are social media platforms accountable for the material they publish?
• Money and expenditures: personal opinion .
• What is the harmful impact of homework ?
• Should LGBT+ problems be discussed during school sex education classes?
• Our opinions on vaccines and what factors influence them .
• Why allowing a child to be overweight is a form of child abuse ?
• How can smartphones damage our IQs?
• Opinions about euthanasia: for and against .
• Why is war never an option for solving international disputes?

Like any other sphere, business has many exciting topics that provoke deep discussion and boost people’s curiosity. Here are some ideas that you can use for your papers!

• The issue of discrimination and harassment at the workplace.
• Business ethics and CSR: when corporate values must be upgraded .
• How does abuse of leadership authority impact employees’ productivity?
• The risks of nepotism and favoritism in big corporations.
• Samsung and child labor: business ethics case .
• How to find the balance between work and personal life?
• The ethical side of corporate espionage.
• Business ethics: Indian tea plantation workers .
• Social media networks should be blocked at work.
• Why are remote workers more productive?
• Business ethics of concealing facts in a report .
• The efficiency of open-space offices in creating fresh business ideas.
• Companies should provide health care to part-time employees.
• Management issues: diversity in the workplace .
• How to avoid ethical issues in the business industry?
• A casual dress code should be mandatory in the office.
• Socialization of people with disabilities in the workplace .
• Will AI replace human jobs soon?
• Minimum wages should be increased around the world.
• Workplace sexual harassment and legal boundaries .
• Stakeholder capitalism as a fundamental violation of fiduciary duty.
• How to deal with a toxic working environment?

Controversial Topics in Business Management

• How to obtain an advantage over competitors ethically?
• Artificial intelligence in strategic business management .
• The importance of workforce diversity in global organizations.
• Participative management approach as a method to empower the workforce.
• Women minorities in business management .
• Why is it vital to implement quality management systems ?
• Employers should make accommodations for employees with mental health issues.
• The marginal productivity of labor in business management .
• All workplace relationships should be banned.
• Time management as a way to boost productivity.
• Moral wayfinding for a business manager .
• Outsourcing as a way of redirecting the company’s resources.
• The effectiveness of banning political discussion in resolving labor conflicts.
• Technological changes in business management .
• Why is focusing on customer service not vital in the business industry?

Controversial Marketing Topics

• Overpromising as a harmful way to gain customers’ trust.
• Marketing: social responsibility and the law .
• Misusing customer data should be punished by the government.
• How does misleading pricing affect the number of sales?
• Is it necessary to develop a marketing plan ?
• The risks and benefits of controversial marketing.
• The impact of colors on the brand and marketing campaigns .
• Advertising to children and social responsibility .
• Why should advertising potentially dangerous products be banned?
• Virtual influencers in marketing and their impact on teenagers.
• Sex in advertising and its harmful effects .
• Recycling content as a way to draw more customers.
• What is the role of social justice issues in ads of popular brands?
• Pharmaceutical advertising is propaganda .
• The role of racial diversity in marketing campaigns.

Controversial medical topics can inspire passionate discussions within healthcare. In the following paragraphs, you can check out the hottest ideas to discuss in the medical field!

Controversial Nursing Topics

• The importance of nurses in end-of-life care .
• Staffing issues in nursing .
• How long should nurses rest between patients?
• The benefits and drawbacks of nurse-physician collaboration .
• Circumcision ethical dilemma and a nurse’s role in it .
• The efficiency of nursing unions in defending nurses’ rights.
• Medical errors and disclosure in pediatric nursing .
• Nurse Robaczynski’s case: crime or mercy killing ?
• Nursing approaches to ophthalmic care for older adults.
• What is the value of informed consent in nursing practice?
• Drug addiction among nurses .
• The worth of nursing leadership in fostering a culture of transparency.
• The role of nurses in addressing medical futility.
• Nurses’ work-life balance and patient safety .
• How to balance patient autonomy and healthcare professional expertise?

Controversial Public Health Topics

• Should medical experiments on humans be legalized?
• Vaccination as a public health policy issue .
• The pros and cons of exercising for pregnant women.
• Social media disinformation as a key cause of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy .
• Abortion from legal and public health perspectives .
• How should the issue of obesity be treated?
• The impact of the coronavirus on a specific vulnerable population.
• Sugary drink tax as a public health policy .
• Did COVID-19 give a boost to telemedicine ?
• The opioid crisis is a public health catastrophe.
• Is bottled water safe for public health ?
• The impact of aging water and sewer infrastructure on health.
• Why are electronic cigarettes more harmful than regular ones?
• Firearm violence as a public health issue .
• Federal privacy laws should protect the privacy of patients.

Controversial Medical Ethics Topics

• Medical students’ involvement in patient care: for or against.
• Patient’s violence and the use of the doctor’s force .
• Is it ethical for healthcare workers to accept gifts from patients?
• The peculiarities of working with surrogate decision-makers.
• Medical ethics: a do-not-resuscitate order .
• How to address disparities in health care professionally?
• The importance of patient privacy and confidentiality.
• Medical ethics: performing an unnecessary test .
• The possible pitfalls of legalization of organ transplantation .
• Euthanasia should be a free choice of a patient.
• Is lying to patients against medical ethics ?
• What is the ethical side of DNR orders ?
• Moral dilemmas concerning physician-assisted suicide .
• Medical ethics: pet euthanasia .
• How should malpractice and negligence in healthcare be punished?

Controversial Questions about Mental Health

• Why is self-help in coping with mental disorders a waste of time?
• What are the dangers of fad diets for mental health ?
• Are mental health issues a result of personality weakness or character flaws?
• Do children experience mental health issues?
• What causes medication administration errors in a mental health hospital ?
• How to prevent a mental health condition?
• What is the role of psychosurgery in treating depression?
• How does ageism affect mental health and addiction ?
• Why do people use self-harm to overcome traumatic experiences?
• Is hearing voices the first symptom of schizophrenia ?
• What are the mental health issues in incarcerated adults ?
• Why is having bipolar disorder considered fancy among teenagers?
• What is the role of practical pharmacotherapy in child psychiatry ?
• How can violence potential be assessed in forensic psychiatric institutions ?
• How can suicidal behavior be unnoticed in society?

Do you need a controversial scientific topic for your term paper or essay? Read on to find the perfect topics on science that you can use in your favor!

• Science should try to revive extinct species.
• Vaccines and autism: does the controversy persist ?
• Will expanding stem cell research be beneficial?
• The role of genes in determining a person’s behavior.
• Controversies related to technology: newborn screening .
• What is the evidence of life on other planets?
• The scientific side of reincarnation .
• Controversies between religion and science .
• Why should alternative medicine be forbidden?
• Genetic variations as the leading cause of alcoholism.
• How is science demarcated from pseudoscience ?
• The efficiency of symptomatic care in the separation of conjoined twins .
• Is it possible to create a virus in the lab?
• Faith and science: did Darwin kill God ?
• The impact of scientific creationism on education.
• Why should the development of neural lace technology be banned?
• Cyber-science: fiction or modern reality ?
• Why should people have the right to refuse vaccinations?
• Should governments invest significant resources in space exploration ?
• The promises and perils of artificial intelligence .
• The ethical aspects of human cloning for medical purposes.
• Why is animal testing necessary?

Controversial Biology Topics

• Drinking a lot of water wipes away the vital nutrients the body needs.
• Is gender a culturally or biologically perscribed role ?
• Why are overweight people more likely to develop chronic diseases ?
• Current generations are responsible for preventing climate change.
• Mind-body problem in psychobiology .
• Charles Darwin’s evolution hypothesis may not be flawless.
• The potential for gene editing to heal genetic diseases .
• Substance abuse: environmental influences and biology .
• Cancer treatment does additional harm to the health.
• The debate in evolutionary biology regarding the validity of the molecular clock.
• Biotechnology: impact on biological warfare and biodefense .
• What are healthy bacteria that should remain in the body?
• The impact of synthetic biology on the environment.
• Advantages and disadvantages of stem cell research .
• What are the evolutionary origins of homosexuality ?

Controversial Engineering Topics

• The design and construction of weaponry should be banned.
• Engineering professionalism and ethics .
• What is the ethical side of bioengineering?
• The possible consequences of the “conflict mineral” exploitation.
• Loudness war in sound engineering .
• How can AI replace humans in engineering processes?
• The debate between imperial and metric measurements.
• Green engineering: principles, benefits, and constraints .
• Why do environmental engineers play a huge role in mitigating climate change?
• The safety of products and structures is a crucial concern for engineers.
• Human factor engineering problem: carpal tunnel syndrome .
• Manipulation of organisms with the help of genetic engineering .
• Why do males dominate the engineering industry?
• Ethical dilemmas in software engineering: Volkswagen ethical dilemma .
• The efficiency of chemical engineering technologies in diagnosing diseases.

Controversial Chemistry Topics

• How do chemical agendas impact cultural values or religious ideas?
• Government preparedness to chemical and bio terrorism .
• The role of chemistry in the prediction of environmental or health problems.
• Chemical weapons as a primary threat to the world.
• Chemical pollution and loans in business ethics .
• The role of chemical laboratories in increasing drug abuse rates.
• How does desalinated water impact human health?
• Dumping chemical wastes in the lake .
• The negative side of using nuclear energy .
• Why is avoiding pesticides in agriculture vital?
• An unethical decision of the Rongping Chemical Company .
• The use of radiant energy in making food safer.
• What is the potential side effect of fluoridation?
• Chemical impact on the US vulnerable communities .
• The safety of using BPA in food packaging .

Deep, controversial questions can challenge our beliefs and prompt introspection. Check out the most contentious philosophical questions that you can use for your essay or paper below!

• How can we identify good without knowing what evil is?
• What is the problem of evil in relation to philosophy and religion ?
• Do you have control over your destiny, or does everything happen by fate?
• Is happiness the most essential goal in life?
• Philosophy prospectus: why should we be moral ?
• Does life exist somewhere else in the universe?
• Is it immoral to distribute riches inequitably?
• Issues in philosophy: does God exist ?
• Is love simply a physical desire or something more?
• Can a life without friends still be fulfilling?
• Are there limits to what should be questioned ?
• What will happen when the world ends?
• Does religion have an impact on scientific thinking?
• Is euthanasia morally acceptable ?
• How can you know that your perceptions are accurate?
• What is the distinction between being alive and living?
• Is watching football morally acceptable ?
• Is beauty a subjective or objective concept?
• Are we ethically obliged to help others?
• Are rich countries morally obligated to assist poor countries ?
• Is suffering an unavoidable aspect of human life?
• What does an afterlife look like?
• When is the use of military force justified ?

Moral Controversial Topics

• Would you kill one person to save the lives of hundreds?
• What is the moral doctrine of active and passive euthanasia ?
• Why is there no absolute morality in the world?
• Is refusing life-saving medical care morally wrong?
• What is the moral status of an abnormal fetus ?
• Would you lie in the name of love?
• Does putting others before yourself give your life purpose?
• Should athletes be held to a higher moral standard ?
• Would you want to know when you are going to die?
• Would you go against the law to save someone you care about?
• What is the moral status of the human embryo ?
• Would you use a dating service to find a lover?
• Can money buy happiness?
• Is it morally permissible to drive after having one drink ?
• What would you change in the world if you could?

Controversial Religious Topics

• How does religion impact a woman’s right to have an abortion?
• Religion in schools: is there a place for it ?
• What are the negative consequences of blasphemy laws?
• Why should animal sacrifice be banned in every religion?
• What are the consequences of religious freedom in America ?
• Why do autopsy laws conflict with religious objections?
• Is there scientific evidence for God’s existence ?
• Is religion the root of terrorism ?
• Why is gay marriage not supported in many religions?
• Can prayer affect the fate of events?
• What are the religious and moral aspects of slavery ?
• How should the church respond to racial injustice and discrimination ?
• Why can’t Satanism be a valid religion?
• Is Islam a religion that practices just war ?
• Do religions cause more conflict than they solve?

Do you know that funny, controversial questions can provide you with a dose of laughter and debate at the same time? Look at the entertaining topics we have prepared for you!

• Why are women often used as inspiration for writing poems?
• Should apartments ban dogs based on breed ?
• How quickly can children become addicted to video games?
• Why is procrastination necessary for achieving goals?
• Should stimulants be prescribed to boost grades ?
• What impact does noise pollution have on human well-being?
• Why should guys avoid wearing skinny jeans?
• Should plant-based dairy be labeled as milk ?
• How to choose a role model for your children?
• Why do people enjoy making things complicated?
• Should schools distribute condoms ?
• Why may clowns frighten both children and adults?
• How to win an argument with the husband?
• Why pitbulls should not be banned .
• What are the most effective ways to survive a zombie apocalypse?
• What is the most useless talent in the world?
• Should spamming be illegal ?
• Why is listening to podcasts instead of music more beneficial?
• The time you enjoy wasting is not wasted time.
• Should people be paid to stay healthy ?
• Only hardworking people can achieve their goals.
• What makes someone a “good person”?

Random Controversial Questions

• What are the leading causes of awkward dates?
• Gender stereotypes: should real men wear pink ?
• What is the importance of mandatory napping hours for adults?
• What is the proper technique for applying toothpaste on a brush?
• Should wolves come back to Colorado ?
• How does laughter influence academic success in elementary school?
• When is it useful to be a good liar?
• Why shouldn’t you have grades in school ?
• Why should pajamas be a part of the work dress code ?
• Why is retail therapy an effective method for boosting happiness?
• Repatriate or keep: should museums return artifacts ?
• What are the possible consequences of falling coconuts for human health?
• Why should wearing socks with sandals be banned?
• Should societies impose monogamy ?
• Why are emojis the superior way of communication?

Controversial Sports Topics

• Why should the use of animals in the sports industry be banned?
• The issue of violence in sports .
• The benefits and drawbacks of social media’s influence on the sports world.
• Why does money play an essential role in professional sports?
• Steroid use and sports .
• Advertising during football matches should be banned.
• Why should sports betting be legalized?
• Transgender women athletes in professional sports .
• The impact of funny nicknames on sports career.
• Gender discrimination is the biggest problem in the sports industry.
• Accessibility of sports facilities for people with disabilities .
• What are the risks and rewards of steroids in sports?
• The role of sport in preventing mental problems.
• Public funding for professional sports facilities .
• Why are all Brazilian athletes good at soccer?

Controversial Music Topics

• Why is rap music considered to promote rape?
• The need for censorship in the music industry .
• Michael Jackson : a musical genius or a mentally ill man?
• The role of classical music in improving learning skills.
• Hip-hop and violence: does this music genre promote crime ?
• The effectiveness of piracy laws in curbing illegal copying of songs.
• What is the secret behind the success of Justin Bieber?
• Tupac’s fake death conspiracy theory .
• The impact of music types on sleep quality .
• Why isn’t auto-tuned music real music?
• Controversies about how to interpret music .
• The importance of lyrics in modern pop songs.
• The relationship between music and lifestyle of a music fan.
• Legalizing free downloads of music and movies .
• Why is talent not important in the music industry in the 21st century?

Controversial Animal Topics

• Why is animal testing never justified?
• Is animal creativity possible ?
• The efficiency of government laws in protecting animals’ rights.
• The ethical drawbacks of horse racing.
• Using animals in medical experiments .
• What should there be the penalty for animal poachers?
• What are the effective ways to prevent animal extinctions?
• Animal welfare: why animals should be treated with kindness and respect .
• Sacrificing an animal for religious reasons: an ethical side.
• What are humans’ responsibilities to animals?
• Captivity in zoos adversely affects animals .
• Using animals for food should be banned.
• The impact of farming on the environment.
• Animal transplantation and commerce in organs .
• Why should keeping exotic animals as pets be illegal?

Social Media Controversial Topics

• The influence of social networks on self-esteem.
• Social media’s influence on the children and teens .
• Social networks as a method to manipulate people.
• The importance of digital connectedness in modern society.
• Transparency of services: social media and the Internet usage .
• How to stop the dissemination of fake news on Twitter?
• Digital friendship: benefits and possible drawbacks.
• Social media for children: threat or opportunity ?
• How does the platform BeReal differ from other social networks?
• The impact of Instagram masks on the perception of one’s appearance.
• Law enforcement: online crimes and social media .
• Why should politicians be banned from social media?
• Social networks as a platform for the emergence of new professions.
• Nursing professionalism in social media .
• Social media destroys creativity in teenagers.

Controversial Relationship Questions

• How does divorce impact a child’s mental health?
• Money issues in romantic and marital relationships .
• Is there a place for monogamy in today’s world?
• Why are mothers expected to prioritize their children’s needs over their own?
• Family relationships and dominant culture .
• Why is it important for a couple to move in together before marriage?
• How does violence in a family affect a child?
• Family relationships and response to health issues .
• Why is a man considered the head of the family?
• Is it good for spouses to have different religious beliefs?
• Domestic violence in same-sex relationships .
• Should couples put their careers above their relationships?
• Why should adoptive parents not hide information about a child’s biological origins?
• Interpersonal qualities for good relationships .
• How does betrayal impact relationships?

Controversial Food Questions

• What are the health risks of genetically modified foods?
• Labeling food with genetically modified organisms .
• Why should pineapple on pizza be banned?
• How does food misinformation in the media impact consumers’ choices?
• Food additives: dangers and health impacts .
• Why is McDonald’s the best fast-food restaurant in the world?
• What is bad about taking photos of food at restaurants?
• Is fast food really harmful and can it be healthy ?
• Why should people not eat meat daily?
• What is the role of a healthy diet in dealing with childhood obesity?
• Food consumption: enjoyment and ethics .
• Can your diet be modified to match your genetic profile?
• Why do people in different countries have opposite views on nutrition?
• Advantages and disadvantages of biotechnology in improving the nutritive value of foods .
• What are the main risks of eating too much sweets?

Looking for controversial questions to debate in the classroom or during the conversation? Check out the list we’ve created especially for you!

• Addicts should receive help rather than punishment.
• Breastfeeding and bottle feeding controversies .
• Why does the beauty industry create unrealistic beauty standards ?
• Is it possible for alternative energy to replace fossil fuels effectively?
• Rationalism and empiricism controversy .
• The possible drawbacks of binge-watching .
• The importance of a parenting class before having a child.
• Antisemitism controversy and Holocaust denial .
• Why is war never justified?
• Smoking e-cigarettes should be made illegal.
• Contemporary global controversies: labor standards .
• The single-gender schools are better for teenagers.
• Why should we ban “diet culture”?
• Debate on circumcision: is it unethical and unlawful ?
• Effective ways of solving the problem of ageism in society.
• The drawbacks of patriotism exceed the advantages.
• Mass starvation: is it a real danger for humans ?
• Why is it impossible to achieve world peace ?
• The negative impact of beauty pageants on self-esteem.
• Graffiti: is it art or vandalism ?
• Are pharmaceutical medication prices reasonable?
• Women are better at managing large corporations than men.
• Sport hunting: is it cruel to kill animals for sport ?
• Organ donation should be made compulsory.
• Why is feminism out of date in the 21st century?
• Criminal profiling: is it science ?
• Cryptocurrencies will replace traditional currencies soon.
• Corporate jobs are a new form of slavery.
• Obesity: is it a disease ?
• Why is blockchain technology the future?

❓ Controversial Questions FAQ

What is a controversial topic.

Controversial topics are topics that elicit strong emotions and divide opinions. Dealing with controversial issues may be highly emotional, especially if they involve values, beliefs, and ethical standards. At the same time, such topics help distinguish between fact and opinion and teach respect for other people’s viewpoints.

What Are Some Controversial Questions?

• Is freedom of speech essential in a functional society?
• Should burning the flag be punished?
• Is solar power the energy of the future?
• Should more people become vegetarian?
• Is tourism harmful to the environment?
• Will technology kill the world?

How to Present a Controversial Topic?

• Ensure you have all the necessary information and are well-versed in the subject.
• Avoid unnecessary jargon or technical terminology.
• Consider your target listeners’ age, gender, and ethnicity.
• Establish credibility by sharing accurate facts or relevant stories.
• Present both sides of the argument to be objective.
• Hot Topics and Controversial Issues | Texas State University
• Guidelines for Discussing Difficult or High-Stakes Topics | University of Michigan
• What Do Americans Think About Controversial Topics in Schools? | USC Dornsife
• Topics | Brookings
• Issues and Controversies: Find a Topic | Marquette University
• Political Issues | Pew Research Center
• Issues & Controversies: topics on Crime and Juvenile Justice | A&M University
• Engaging in Discussions about Controversial Issues | Alys Avalos-Rivera
• Business Management Topics | The University of Maine
• Topics: Issues Related to Religion | The First Amendment Encyclopedia
• 5 Major Controversies and Challenges in Engineering | Interesting Engineering
• What Are the Top 10 Public Health Challenges in 2023? | News Medical
• Select a Research Topic: Current Events and Controversial Issues | Southern Adventist University
• 110+ Controversial Debate Topics to Challenge Your Students | We Are Teachers
• Addressing Controversial Issues | Council of Europe
• 100+ Interesting Debate Topics | Owlcation
• Room for Debate | The New York Times
• The 22 Debates That Made Us Rage, Roll Our Eyes, and Change Our Minds In 2022 | The New York Times
• Current Debates | SAGE edge
• Current Debates in Health Care Policy: A Brief Overview | Brookings
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How to write a 250-word essay: length, outline, & example, how to write a 200-word essay: length, prompts, & example, 740 funny research topics — a list of superb writing ideas.

50 Argumentative Essay Topics

Illustration by Catherine Song. ThoughtCo. 

• M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
• B.A., History, Armstrong State University

An argumentative essay requires you to decide on a topic and take a position on it. You'll need to back up your viewpoint with well-researched facts and information as well. One of the hardest parts is deciding which topic to write about, but there are plenty of ideas available to get you started.

Choosing a Great Argumentative Essay Topic

Students often find that most of their work on these essays is done before they even start writing. This means that it's best if you have a general interest in your subject, otherwise you might get bored or frustrated while trying to gather information. (You don't need to know everything, though.) Part of what makes this experience rewarding is learning something new.

It's best if you have a general interest in your subject, but the argument you choose doesn't have to be one that you agree with.

The subject you choose may not necessarily be one that you are in full agreement with, either. You may even be asked to write a paper from the opposing point of view. Researching a different viewpoint helps students broaden their perspectives. 

Ideas for Argument Essays

Sometimes, the best ideas are sparked by looking at many different options. Explore this list of possible topics and see if a few pique your interest. Write those down as you come across them, then think about each for a few minutes.

Which would you enjoy researching? Do you have a firm position on a particular subject? Is there a point you would like to make sure to get across? Did the topic give you something new to think about? Can you see why someone else may feel differently?

50 Possible Topics

A number of these topics are rather controversial—that's the point. In an argumentative essay, opinions matter and controversy is based on opinions, which are, hopefully, backed up by facts.   If these topics are a little too controversial or you don't find the right one for you, try browsing through persuasive essay and speech topics  as well.

• Is global climate change  caused by humans?
• Is the death penalty effective?
• Is our election process fair?
• Is torture ever acceptable?
• Should men get paternity leave from work?
• Are school uniforms beneficial?
• Do we have a fair tax system?
• Do curfews keep teens out of trouble?
• Is cheating out of control?
• Are we too dependent on computers?
• Should animals be used for research?
• Should cigarette smoking be banned?
• Are cell phones dangerous?
• Are law enforcement cameras an invasion of privacy?
• Do we have a throwaway society?
• Is child behavior better or worse than it was years ago?
• Should companies market to children?
• Should the government have a say in our diets?
• Does access to condoms prevent teen pregnancy?
• Should members of Congress have term limits?
• Are actors and professional athletes paid too much?
• Are CEOs paid too much?
• Should athletes be held to high moral standards?
• Do violent video games cause behavior problems?
• Should creationism be taught in public schools?
• Are beauty pageants exploitative ?
• Should English be the official language of the United States?
• Should the racing industry be forced to use biofuels?
• Should the alcohol drinking age be increased or decreased?
• Should everyone be required to recycle?
• Is it okay for prisoners to vote (as they are in some states)?
• Is it good that same-sex couples are able to marry?
• Are there benefits to attending a single-sex school ?
• Does boredom lead to trouble?
• Should schools be in session year-round ?
• Does religion cause war?
• Should the government provide health care?
• Should abortion be illegal?
• Are girls too mean to each other?
• Is homework harmful or helpful?
• Is the cost of college too high?
• Is college admission too competitive?
• Should euthanasia be illegal?
• Should the federal government legalize marijuana use nationally ?
• Should rich people be required to pay more taxes?
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Research Paper Writing Guides

Controversial Research Paper Topics

Last updated on: Mar 5, 2024

150+ Controversial Research Paper Topics to Get You Started

By: Donna C.

10 min read

Reviewed By: Chris H.

Published on: Mar 6, 2024

Finding the right research topic can be a challenge, especially when you want to explore subjects that are a bit daring. 

We understand the struggle of wanting to pick something that's not just interesting but also sparks curiosity and debate.

Controversial research papers make you think differently. They might make you a bit uncomfortable, but that discomfort often leads to some of the most fascinating discoveries and discussions.

In this blog, we've curated a list of controversial research paper topics to make your search easier. 

We’ll look closely at different topics, assisting you in finding a topic that not only interests you but also makes your academic experience meaningful.

Let’s dig in and find controversial topics to write a research paper on!

On this Page

Good Controversial Research Paper Topics for Students

Selecting a captivating research paper topic can make the research paper writing process more engaging and thought-provoking. 

Here, we've curated a list of top research topics for students who are wondering what are some good controversial topics for a research paper. 

Controversial Research Topics for Middle School

• Healthy School Lunches: Balancing Nutrition and Taste
• Should Students Have Homework on Weekends?
• Banning Junk Food in Schools: Pros and Cons
• Space Exploration: Is It Worth the Cost?
• The Importance of Environmental Conservation
• Community Service: Should It Be a Mandatory School Requirement?
• Is Censorship in Children's Literature Important?
• School Start Times: Are They Too Early?
• Should Students Be Allowed to Grade Their Teachers?
• Should Middle Schoolers Be Taught Financial Literacy?

Controversial Research Topics for High School Students

• Should High School Curriculum Include Mandatory Financial Literacy Courses?
• Exploring the Controversies Surrounding School Prayer
• The Influence of Violent VideoGames on Youth Behavior
• Should High School Start Times be Adjusted for Teenage Sleep Patterns?
• The Impact of Fast Food Advertising on Teenage Diets
• Debunking or Validating Popular Health Fads Among High School Students
• The Controversy Over Abstinence-only Education About Sex in High Schools
• The Role of Standardized Testing in College Admissions: Fair or Unfair?
• Should High School Students Have a Say in the Curriculum?
• The Impact of Global Warming Facts and Education on High School Students

Controversial Research Topics for College Students

• The Impact of Cancel Culture on Free Speech
• The Ethics of AI Surveillance in Educational Institutions
• Exploring Cultural Appropriation in College Events
• Debunking or Validating Conspiracy Theories in College Curriculum
• The Intersection of Gender Identity and Campus Policies
• Examining the Controversies Surrounding College Admissions Testing
• Privacy Concerns in Online Learning Platforms for College Courses
• Evaluating the Impact of Social Media Influencers on College Students
• Legalizing Recreational Drugs: Implications for College Communities
• Analyzing the Influence of the Electoral College on College Debates and Discussions

Controversial Research Topics for University

• The Intersection of Technology and Privacy in the Digital Age
• The Impact of Universal Basic Income on Labor Markets and Society
• Debunking Pseudoscience: Challenges and Strategies
• The Role of Blockchain Technology in Reshaping Industries
• The Future of Work: Automation, AI, and the Changing Landscape of Employment
• Neuroethics: Ethical Considerations in Brain-Computer Interface Technologies
• Augmented Reality in Healthcare: Enhancing Patient Care or Ethical Concerns?
• Crisis Communication in the Age of Social Media: Challenges and Opportunities
• The Ethics of Using AI in Criminal Justice: Bias, Accountability, and Transparency
• Social Media Influencers and Digital Advertising Ethics

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Controversial Research Topics for Master’s

• Implications of Synthetic Biology and Biohacking
• Quantum Internet: Privacy and Security Challenges
• Ethics of Autonomous Weapons and AI in Warfare
• Impact of Deepfake Technology on Media and Society
• The Intersection of Technology and Mental Health: Risks and Benefits
• Space Tourism: Ethical and Environmental Implications
• The Ethics of Data Brokers and Information Marketplaces
• Quantum Cryptography: Securing Communication in the Quantum Era
• The Future of Intellectual Property in the Age of AI and Robotics
• The Digital Divide: Addressing Inequities in Access to Technology

Controversial Research Topics for Ph.D.

• Digital Surveillance and Civil Liberties: A Comparative Analysis
• Ownership and Privacy of Genetic Data in the Genomic Era
• Legal and Ethical Aspects of Extraterrestrial Resource Utilization
• Ethics of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) Development and Deployment
• Regulatory Challenges of Decentralized Finance (DeFi)
• Algorithmic Trading, High-Frequency Trading, and Market Manipulation
• Big Tech's Influence on Global Politics and Governance
• Transhumanism and the Evolution of Post-Human Society
• The Intersection of Robotics and Human Rights: Ethical Considerations in Autonomous Systems
• Neurotechnology and the Possibility of Mind Reading: Ethical Implications

Common Controversial Research Paper Topics

• The Ethics of Genetic Editing: Balancing Innovation and Morality
• Climate Change: Addressing Skepticism and Urgency for Affirmative Action
• The Legality and Ethics of Euthanasia in Modern Society
• Concealed Handguns: Balancing Second Amendment and Civil Rights 
• The Controversy Surrounding Biofuels
• Legalization of Recreational Drugs: Weighing the Risks and Benefits
• The Impact of Immigration Policies on Society and the Economy
• Nuclear Energy vs. Renewable Energy: Striving for a Sustainable Future
• Censorship in Media: Protecting Society or Limiting Freedom of Expression?
• The Death Penalty: Examining Morality and Effectiveness in Criminal Justice

Easy Controversial Research Paper Topics

• Should Schools Adopt Year-Round Bilingual Education?
• The Impact of Social Media Dependency on Personal Relationships
• Fast Food Consumption: Pros and Cons
• The Effectiveness of Capital Punishment as a Deterrent to Crime
• The Influence of Reality TV on Youth Behavior
• Should Animal Testing be Banned?
• The Impact of Video Games Violence on Academic Performance
• Marijuana Legalization and its Ethical Aspects
• Should Smoking in Public be Illegal?
• The Impact of Cell Phones on Face-to-Face Communication

Interesting Controversial Topics

• The Philosophy of Time Travel: Possibilities and Paradoxes
• Human Colonization of Mars: Ethical and Practical Considerations
• Cryptids and the Paranormal: Scientific Exploration or Pseudoscience?
• The Mandela Effect: Collective Memory or Alternate Realities?
• Existence of Parallel Universes: Exploring Multiverse Theories
• Plant Consciousness: Do Plants Have Feelings and Awareness?
• The Mystery of Dark Matter and Dark Energy
• Dream Interpretation: Psychology or Pseudoscience?
• Astrology and Personality Traits: Cosmic Influences on Atheism?
• The Hollow Earth Theory: Myth or Scientific Possibility?

Captivating Controversial Research Topics

• Mind-Reading Technology and Privacy Paradox
• Designer Babies: Crafting the Perfect Human
• Parallel Universes: Theoretical Marvel or Scientific Reality?
• Crypto-Currencies and the Future of Money Laundering
• Artificial Consciousness: From Code to Sentience
• Psychedelics in Psychiatry: Breaking the Taboo
• Deepfake Dilemmas: The Ethics of Synthetic Media
• Algorithmic Bias: Unmasking the Hidden Prejudice in Code
• Conscious AI in the Workplace: Colleague or Competitor?
• Rejuvenation Biotechnology: Extending Human Lifespan

Psychology Controversial Research Paper Topics

Here are some important controversial topics in psychology for research paper writing:

• The Morality of Using Placebos in Psychological Treatment
• The Ethics of Conducting Psychological Experiments on Animals
• Is Video Game Addiction a Real Mental Health Concern?
• The Influence of Parenting Styles on Child Development
• The Role of Genetics in Determining Intelligence
• Is Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) an Ethical Treatment for Depression?
• The Psychology of Procrastination: Causes and Solutions
• The Influence of Gender Stereotypes on Mental Health
• The Relationship Between Sleep Deprivation and Cognitive Functioning
• The Psychology Behind Conspiracy Theories: Understanding Beliefs and Behavior

Controversial Medical Topics For A Research Paper

• The Ethics of Human Cloning
• Physician-Assisted Suicide: Legal and Ethical Perspectives
• Gene Editing and CRISPR Technology: Ethical Implications
• The Legalization of Recreational Drugs for Medicinal Purposes
• Organ Transplant Allocation: Fairness and Equality
• Genetic Testing for Disease Predisposition: Privacy and Consent
• Stem Cell Research: Promises and Ethical Concerns
• Would Universal Healthcare Improve Healthcare Access?
• Pharmaceutical Industry Influence on Medical Practices
• Abortion: Medical, Ethical, and Legal Considerations

Simple Controversial Topics in History for Research Paper

• The Debate Over Reparations for Historical Injustices
• The Controversies Surrounding Columbus Day
• The Impact of Colonialism on Indigenous Peoples
• Historical Revisionism in Holocaust Denial
• The Legacy and Controversies of Historical Figures
• The Decision to Drop Atomic Bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki
• Historical Perspectives on Immigration Policies and Debates
• The Armenian Genocide: Recognition and Denial
• The Legacy and Controversies of the Vietnam War
• The Ethics of Archaeological Discoveries and Cultural Heritage Preservation

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Unique Controversial Topics

• Universal Basic Income (UBI): Economic Panacea or Social Pitfall?
• Alternative Medicine vs. Conventional Medicine
• Urban Vertical Farming: Feeding Cities of the Future or Just a Pipe Dream?
• E-Waste Crisis: The Dark Side of Technological Advancement
• Water Scarcity and Corporate Control: Bottling Profits or Human Rights?
• Challenges of 5G Technology: Innovation or Health Concerns?
• Eradicating Infectious Diseases: Ethical Dilemmas in Gene Drives
• The Ethics of Behavioral Advertising: Personalized Marketing or Invasive Manipulation?
• Robot Rights: Navigating the Ethical Landscape of AI Personhood
• The Future of Nuclear Energy: Sustainable Solution or Perpetuating Risks

Other than this range of controversial topics, here are some non-controversial topics too:

Non Controversial Research Paper Topics

• The History of Public Libraries: Evolution and Impact on Communities
• Effects of Music on Stress and Anxiety Levels
• Benefits of Green Spaces in Urban Environments
• The Role of Vitamin D in Human Health
• History of Vaccinations and Their Impact on Public Health
• The Science of Sleep: Understanding Sleep Patterns and Disorders
• Positive Effects of Mindfulness Meditation on Mental Health
• The Impact of Reading on Cognitive Development in Children
• Advancements in Water Purification Technologies
• The History of Astronomy: Contributions and Discoveries

How to Choose a Controversial Research Paper Topic?

Choosing a controversial research paper topic requires careful consideration and a strategic approach to ensure the relevance and impact of your work. 

Here are key steps to guide you in selecting a provocative and engaging topic for your research:

• Identify Your Interests: Start by considering your personal interests and passions. A controversial topic is more compelling when it aligns with your genuine curiosity. Explore subjects that you are willing to investigate thoroughly.
• Review Current Debates: Reading reputable news sources, scholarly articles, and opinion pieces will help you identify topics generating controversy and public discourse.
• Evaluate Academic Relevance: Ensure that your chosen topic has academic merit. It should be relevant to your field of study and contribute meaningfully to existing knowledge. 
• Check Research Feasibility: Assess the feasibility of conducting research on your chosen topic. Ensure that there are accessible resources, data, and literature available for a comprehensive analysis. 
• Consider Ethical Implications: Controversial topics may involve sensitive issues. Strive to approach the topic with empathy, respect for diverse opinions, and a commitment to presenting a balanced perspective.
• Stay Open to Adaptations: The dynamic nature of controversial topics may require adjustments to ensure the relevancy and significance of your findings. That’s why it is important to remain open to adapting your approach. 

To sum up, looking into controversial topics lets us dig into complicated problems, have conversations, and question our existing knowledge. These interesting subjects grab people's attention and add to the broader perspectives of research. 

This blog is your ultimate guide for controversial research paper topic selection. But if you feel like you need help with your topic or even research paper, reach our professional paper writing service online !

At SharkPapers.com, we have the expertise and experience to help you with research paper writing. We also provide freebies along with 24/7 customer support!

Visit our website and learn more about hiring research paper writing help! 

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 113 great research paper topics.

General Education

One of the hardest parts of writing a research paper can be just finding a good topic to write about. Fortunately we've done the hard work for you and have compiled a list of 113 interesting research paper topics. They've been organized into ten categories and cover a wide range of subjects so you can easily find the best topic for you.

In addition to the list of good research topics, we've included advice on what makes a good research paper topic and how you can use your topic to start writing a great paper.

What Makes a Good Research Paper Topic?

Not all research paper topics are created equal, and you want to make sure you choose a great topic before you start writing. Below are the three most important factors to consider to make sure you choose the best research paper topics.

#1: It's Something You're Interested In

A paper is always easier to write if you're interested in the topic, and you'll be more motivated to do in-depth research and write a paper that really covers the entire subject. Even if a certain research paper topic is getting a lot of buzz right now or other people seem interested in writing about it, don't feel tempted to make it your topic unless you genuinely have some sort of interest in it as well.

#2: There's Enough Information to Write a Paper

Even if you come up with the absolute best research paper topic and you're so excited to write about it, you won't be able to produce a good paper if there isn't enough research about the topic. This can happen for very specific or specialized topics, as well as topics that are too new to have enough research done on them at the moment. Easy research paper topics will always be topics with enough information to write a full-length paper.

Trying to write a research paper on a topic that doesn't have much research on it is incredibly hard, so before you decide on a topic, do a bit of preliminary searching and make sure you'll have all the information you need to write your paper.

#3: It Fits Your Teacher's Guidelines

Don't get so carried away looking at lists of research paper topics that you forget any requirements or restrictions your teacher may have put on research topic ideas. If you're writing a research paper on a health-related topic, deciding to write about the impact of rap on the music scene probably won't be allowed, but there may be some sort of leeway. For example, if you're really interested in current events but your teacher wants you to write a research paper on a history topic, you may be able to choose a topic that fits both categories, like exploring the relationship between the US and North Korea. No matter what, always get your research paper topic approved by your teacher first before you begin writing.

113 Good Research Paper Topics

Below are 113 good research topics to help you get you started on your paper. We've organized them into ten categories to make it easier to find the type of research paper topics you're looking for.

Arts/Culture

• Discuss the main differences in art from the Italian Renaissance and the Northern Renaissance .
• Analyze the impact a famous artist had on the world.
• How is sexism portrayed in different types of media (music, film, video games, etc.)? Has the amount/type of sexism changed over the years?
• How has the music of slaves brought over from Africa shaped modern American music?
• How has rap music evolved in the past decade?
• How has the portrayal of minorities in the media changed?

Current Events

• What have been the impacts of China's one child policy?
• How have the goals of feminists changed over the decades?
• How has the Trump presidency changed international relations?
• Analyze the history of the relationship between the United States and North Korea.
• What factors contributed to the current decline in the rate of unemployment?
• What have been the impacts of states which have increased their minimum wage?
• How do US immigration laws compare to immigration laws of other countries?
• How have the US's immigration laws changed in the past few years/decades?
• How has the Black Lives Matter movement affected discussions and view about racism in the US?
• What impact has the Affordable Care Act had on healthcare in the US?
• What factors contributed to the UK deciding to leave the EU (Brexit)?
• What factors contributed to China becoming an economic power?
• Discuss the history of Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies  (some of which tokenize the S&P 500 Index on the blockchain) .
• Do students in schools that eliminate grades do better in college and their careers?
• Do students from wealthier backgrounds score higher on standardized tests?
• Do students who receive free meals at school get higher grades compared to when they weren't receiving a free meal?
• Do students who attend charter schools score higher on standardized tests than students in public schools?
• Do students learn better in same-sex classrooms?
• How does giving each student access to an iPad or laptop affect their studies?
• What are the benefits and drawbacks of the Montessori Method ?
• Do children who attend preschool do better in school later on?
• What was the impact of the No Child Left Behind act?
• How does the US education system compare to education systems in other countries?
• What impact does mandatory physical education classes have on students' health?
• Which methods are most effective at reducing bullying in schools?
• Do homeschoolers who attend college do as well as students who attended traditional schools?
• Does offering tenure increase or decrease quality of teaching?
• How does college debt affect future life choices of students?
• Should graduate students be able to form unions?

• What are different ways to lower gun-related deaths in the US?
• How and why have divorce rates changed over time?
• Is affirmative action still necessary in education and/or the workplace?
• Should physician-assisted suicide be legal?
• How has stem cell research impacted the medical field?
• How can human trafficking be reduced in the United States/world?
• Should people be able to donate organs in exchange for money?
• Which types of juvenile punishment have proven most effective at preventing future crimes?
• Has the increase in US airport security made passengers safer?
• Analyze the immigration policies of certain countries and how they are similar and different from one another.
• Several states have legalized recreational marijuana. What positive and negative impacts have they experienced as a result?
• Do tariffs increase the number of domestic jobs?
• Which prison reforms have proven most effective?
• Should governments be able to censor certain information on the internet?
• Which methods/programs have been most effective at reducing teen pregnancy?
• What are the benefits and drawbacks of the Keto diet?
• How effective are different exercise regimes for losing weight and maintaining weight loss?
• How do the healthcare plans of various countries differ from each other?
• What are the most effective ways to treat depression ?
• What are the pros and cons of genetically modified foods?
• Which methods are most effective for improving memory?
• What can be done to lower healthcare costs in the US?
• What factors contributed to the current opioid crisis?
• Analyze the history and impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic .
• Are low-carbohydrate or low-fat diets more effective for weight loss?
• How much exercise should the average adult be getting each week?
• Which methods are most effective to get parents to vaccinate their children?
• What are the pros and cons of clean needle programs?
• How does stress affect the body?
• Discuss the history of the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.
• What were the causes and effects of the Salem Witch Trials?
• Who was responsible for the Iran-Contra situation?
• How has New Orleans and the government's response to natural disasters changed since Hurricane Katrina?
• What events led to the fall of the Roman Empire?
• What were the impacts of British rule in India ?
• Was the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki necessary?
• What were the successes and failures of the women's suffrage movement in the United States?
• What were the causes of the Civil War?
• How did Abraham Lincoln's assassination impact the country and reconstruction after the Civil War?
• Which factors contributed to the colonies winning the American Revolution?
• What caused Hitler's rise to power?
• Discuss how a specific invention impacted history.
• What led to Cleopatra's fall as ruler of Egypt?
• How has Japan changed and evolved over the centuries?
• What were the causes of the Rwandan genocide ?

• Why did Martin Luther decide to split with the Catholic Church?
• Analyze the history and impact of a well-known cult (Jonestown, Manson family, etc.)
• How did the sexual abuse scandal impact how people view the Catholic Church?
• How has the Catholic church's power changed over the past decades/centuries?
• What are the causes behind the rise in atheism/ agnosticism in the United States?
• What were the influences in Siddhartha's life resulted in him becoming the Buddha?
• How has media portrayal of Islam/Muslims changed since September 11th?

Science/Environment

• How has the earth's climate changed in the past few decades?
• How has the use and elimination of DDT affected bird populations in the US?
• Analyze how the number and severity of natural disasters have increased in the past few decades.
• Analyze deforestation rates in a certain area or globally over a period of time.
• How have past oil spills changed regulations and cleanup methods?
• How has the Flint water crisis changed water regulation safety?
• What are the pros and cons of fracking?
• What impact has the Paris Climate Agreement had so far?
• What have NASA's biggest successes and failures been?
• How can we improve access to clean water around the world?
• Does ecotourism actually have a positive impact on the environment?
• Should the US rely on nuclear energy more?
• What can be done to save amphibian species currently at risk of extinction?
• What impact has climate change had on coral reefs?
• How are black holes created?
• Are teens who spend more time on social media more likely to suffer anxiety and/or depression?
• How will the loss of net neutrality affect internet users?
• Analyze the history and progress of self-driving vehicles.
• How has the use of drones changed surveillance and warfare methods?
• Has social media made people more or less connected?
• What progress has currently been made with artificial intelligence ?
• Do smartphones increase or decrease workplace productivity?
• What are the most effective ways to use technology in the classroom?
• How is Google search affecting our intelligence?
• When is the best age for a child to begin owning a smartphone?
• Has frequent texting reduced teen literacy rates?

How to Write a Great Research Paper

Even great research paper topics won't give you a great research paper if you don't hone your topic before and during the writing process. Follow these three tips to turn good research paper topics into great papers.

#1: Figure Out Your Thesis Early

Before you start writing a single word of your paper, you first need to know what your thesis will be. Your thesis is a statement that explains what you intend to prove/show in your paper. Every sentence in your research paper will relate back to your thesis, so you don't want to start writing without it!

As some examples, if you're writing a research paper on if students learn better in same-sex classrooms, your thesis might be "Research has shown that elementary-age students in same-sex classrooms score higher on standardized tests and report feeling more comfortable in the classroom."

If you're writing a paper on the causes of the Civil War, your thesis might be "While the dispute between the North and South over slavery is the most well-known cause of the Civil War, other key causes include differences in the economies of the North and South, states' rights, and territorial expansion."

#2: Back Every Statement Up With Research

Remember, this is a research paper you're writing, so you'll need to use lots of research to make your points. Every statement you give must be backed up with research, properly cited the way your teacher requested. You're allowed to include opinions of your own, but they must also be supported by the research you give.

#3: Do Your Research Before You Begin Writing

You don't want to start writing your research paper and then learn that there isn't enough research to back up the points you're making, or, even worse, that the research contradicts the points you're trying to make!

Get most of your research on your good research topics done before you begin writing. Then use the research you've collected to create a rough outline of what your paper will cover and the key points you're going to make. This will help keep your paper clear and organized, and it'll ensure you have enough research to produce a strong paper.

What's Next?

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

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As 2022 nears its end, we are presenting 22 of the debates that defined the year, revisiting the ones you might remember (and reminding you of the ones you might have tried to forget) and asking the most important question of all: Did you change your mind?

Click on the topics to read more and vote.

Like them or hate them, masks long ago became culture war fodder — that is, the debate around wearing them was so laden with subtext that it was hardly about the value of masks at all. And this year the debate dragged on.

After the T.S.A. lifted its mask mandate on airplanes in April, videos went viral of mid-flight celebrations as pilots announced that the rules had changed. This was proof that Americans were ready to bare their faces and inhale. Or was it? Some public health advocates — and public commentators — argued that our noses and mouths should stay covered, for the good of ourselves and our neighbors. A late autumn surge in respiratory viruses brought the issue back.

But at this point in the pandemic, most minds are probably made up. So would all that energy be put to better use pushing for better building ventilation instead? At least open windows aren’t fraught with symbolism — yet.

Experts waxed poetic about the potential of the hybrid workplace, if only every company’s existing offices, workflows and managerial structures were completely redesigned around it. Companies trying to enforce some amount of mandatory in-office time, meanwhile, gestured back to the halcyon days when merely the zip produced by passing a warm body in the hallway resulted in unparalleled creative output.

Yes, there are real reasons to love the hybrid work model (less commuting time, but you still know your colleagues) and reasons to hate it (going to an empty office just to sit on Zoom feels like a scene from “Dilbert”). But until every company’s return-to-office plan is final and firm, we’re going to keep the conversation going — around the water cooler or over email.

Crime rates have risen in many parts of the United States over the past few years. But they remain far lower than they were as recently as the 1990s. One thing that’s definitely spiked: heated, politicized, polarized discussion around the issue.

What’s the deal with crime? Has much of America descended into lawlessness thanks to soft-on-crime progressive prosecutors and a movement to “defund the police”? Are liberals refusing to grapple with reality when it comes to robberies and murders? Or is it essentially all in our heads, really more of a story about bad vibes than bad guys? Are people confusing other issues — especially homelessness — with crime? In the run-up to this year’s midterm elections, crime was a top issue in races from Oklahoma to New York, but ultimately it rarely proved decisive.

There are serious, unsettled questions about how crime is measured: Statistics are notoriously unreliable, outdated and piecemeal. And policing — and everything around it — remains as fraught as ever. Let’s see if the vibes improve in 2023.

When President Biden announced in August that the federal government would forgive up to $20,000 per borrower in student loan debt (estimated to total roughly $400 billion), the response was fierce. Activists, anxious debtors and Senator Elizabeth Warren — to name just one prominent voice — said that the package was a huge step toward fixing the problem of America’s costly higher education system. Some even said Mr. Biden’s debt relief plan didn’t go far enough.

Many other Americans, on the other hand, felt that the White House’s plan was just plain unfair: They had scrimped and saved to pay for post-high school education and now others were getting undeserved handouts. And anyway, would a payout do anything to solve the real issue, which is that higher education in America is far too expensive?

In the end, it won’t be the court of public opinion that matters: The administration’s debt relief plan has been tied up in legal challenges practically since the day it was announced, and it’s headed for the Supreme Court. That means we’re in for at least another year of disagreement.

The event that would come to be known as The Slap — the actor Will Smith’s assault on the comedian Chris Rock after the latter made a joke about Mr. Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith — was so shocking (Physical assault! During one of live television’s most stage managed events!) and touched on so many of America’s most neuralgic subjects (Free speech! Toxic masculinity! Ableism! Black manhood! Black womanhood!) that it spawned a flurry of takes in the aftermath that few other events this year have matched. (Remember when Judd Apatow tweeted that Mr. Smith “could have killed him”? Remember when a spokesman for the British prime minister weighed in?)

It seemed like every possible angle had its proponents: Mr. Smith was defending his wife in a way that Black women are rarely defended; defending a woman’s honor with physical violence was an expression of toxic masculinity. Will and Jada were longtime celebrities who should know by now how to take a joke; no one should have to take a joke. Mr. Smith should be arrested for assault; calls for his arrest showcased Americans’ carceral attitudes toward Black men.

In the end, the fact that The Slap — a minor scuffle involving three famous people — was being mustered as evidence for so many different agendas and worldviews should perhaps be taken as a sign that the simplest take is the right one here: America really likes talking about celebrities.

This year, the digital gold rush dried up. Prospectors who had mined speculative assets weathered a series of crashes that threatened to bust their boom towns while everyone else watched. Even “no coiners” finally had to figure out how crypto works, if only to learn enough to mock its true believers.

One might think that after a year of crypto implosions, culminating in FTX’s November mega-collapse (to blame: the Democrat-boosting billionaire Sam Bankman-Fried’s bad business practices — and maybe even criminality), faith in the currency’s sanctity might finally fail. After all, even if workplace harassment, a trash-talking C.E.O. turned fugitive or an embarrassing series of hacks didn’t kill your faith in crypto’s prophets, surely the loss of your teacher’s pension fund would.

But crypto’s not gone yet. Its boosters are still boosting, insisting that this short-term dip in the market amounts to nothing more than growing pains. And large firms like Fidelity and BlackRock haven’t given up on crypto investing, either. In doing so, they’re transforming glimmering speculative mumbo-jumbo into just another line item in your friendly neighborhood investment portfolio.

The Depp vs. Heard trial produced so many grim details about the pair’s life together that it’s hard to single out a defining moment. Was it Mr. Depp’s texts to a friend about wanting to have sex with Ms. Heard’s corpse? Or when he accused her of defecating in their bed? It produced audio clips in which the whole country heard two Hollywood stars screaming at each other like the most toxic couple you know stumbling home after last call. At first, following the trial seemed tawdry, like being invested in some especially prurient celebrity gossip.

But then something seemed to shift. The internet appeared, en masse, to side with Captain Jack Sparrow, going into meme-making overdrive with such fervor that it was almost suspicious. (Indeed, there’s evidence that bot accounts were created to retweet hashtags like #AmberHeardIsALiar.) Then came the verdict, which awarded a whopping $8.35 million to Mr. Depp at a moment when it felt like women’s rights were on the ropes: Less than a month earlier, a draft of the Supreme Court opinion that would eventually repeal Roe v. Wade had leaked.

Many argued that what we were seeing unfold around Depp vs. Heard was the inevitable #MeToo backlash. Some found this idea delightful and hoped Ms. Heard’s ugly behavior, as revealed in court, might succeed in undermining the idea of “believe women” for good; others felt that the reaction to the trial proved just how deep misogyny still runs through American culture. But by the time it was over, most seemed to agree that this trial wasn’t just about a messy celebrity couple but something bigger.

The moment that Queen Elizabeth II died in September, the future of the British monarchy suddenly seemed like an open question. And so did how to assess the late royal’s legacy.

To many, she was an icon: She ruled for 70 years, presided over the transition from empire to commonwealth and served as a living link to the generation that won World War II. (She herself worked as a mechanic during the war.) She was, her supporters said, a steady figurehead for the ship of state during a tumultuous period and a leader of a British democracy that took decades to extract itself from a postwar malaise and emerged with diminished influence and power.

On the other hand: She ruled for 70 years and presided over the transition from empire to commonwealth, a process that was sometimes ugly. Under her ceremonial gaze, the fading empire brutally repressed people in its colonies — the Kenyan Mau Mau rebels and the Catholic Irish most famously — and was reticent to condemn apartheid South Africa and committed atrocities against Malayan National Liberation Army rebels. Queen Elizabeth was not making governmental decisions that led to policy, exactly, but the legacy of her rule is still the legacy of the Britain she presided over, republicans claim.

Under her son and successor, Charles III, certainly less popular than his mother, questions about the monarchy’s future — and its past — will likely only intensify.

Inflation made life expensive in 2022, and the Federal Reserve came to the rescue by raising interest rates for the first time in years. But it’s a finicky process: Raise them too little and inflation persists; raise them too fast and the economy falls into a recession. People will lose their jobs and be unable to buy the goods that inflation was making unaffordable anyway. In a survey of America’s top academic economists, nearly 70 percent said they expected a recession in 2023.

The Federal Reserve is famously tight-lipped about its policymaking. But that didn’t stop economists, politicians and pundits from squabbling over what the central bank should be doing. If price increases were being caused primarily by a spike in the price of oil (or, to use President Biden’s attempt at a coinage, “the Putin price hike ”), how much would raising interest rates actually help? Some economists worried about a return to the dreaded stagflation of the 1970s. (Though Ben Bernanke, a former Fed chairman himself, wrote in The Times that that wasn’t going to happen.) Other economists said it was time to cool down the economy before wages started to rise too much, creating an unstoppable spiral.

As the year draws to a close, it looks like inflation may be slowing , and the Fed’s rate increases with it. We may never know what actually was the cause.

The House’s hearings into the Jan. 6 riot were many things: a piece of political theater, a ratings (and traffic) boon for the political news media, a second draft of history, a formal investigation into the actions of Donald Trump and those around him during the day’s events.

But did they matter beyond a record for posterity? In a country riven with partisan polarization and divided into information bubbles, could they? Judging by the reception that election denial got at the polls, it seems that the American voter did consider them important: None of the election deniers in states that Mr. Biden won in 2020 were elected to office, and no candidates that ran on election denial anywhere won their elections.

But Mr. Trump is running again in 2024. The hearings did not end his political career any more than the riot itself did, and the movement that he galvanized is still around. Changing minds is different from rallying the converted. Whether the hearings were truly important might not be known until the ballots are counted in two years. Until then, we may have to make do with half-verdicts.

Two political truisms: Elections are mainly about economic conditions, and the president’s party is at a severe disadvantage during midterm elections. So with high inflation, high gas prices in particular and a possible recession on the horizon, prospects for a Republican blowout seemed good. But instead of a red wave that would set the stage for a Republican trifecta in two years, Democrats added to their Senate majority (even if they did lose the House).

Was the verdict of the voters motivated by Mr. Biden’s policy agenda and a fulfillment of his promise to restore the soul of America? Or was it a vote of no confidence in the Republican Party’s culture war politics, continuing fidelity to the unpopular Mr. Trump and anti-abortion overreach? It’s hard to divine an answer from the inkblot test of the exit polls, but Mr. Biden is not a popular figure.

It could be that even if voters were mostly voting against Republicans and not for Democrats, they were mobilized to do so by the Democrats’ political strategy, which emphasized attacking Republicans on abortion rights and election denial as much as talking about pocketbook issues. If so, this could bode well for their chances of retaining the presidency when voters go to the polls in two years.

Cake frosting smeared on the Mona Lisa. Mashed potatoes flung at a Monet. Tomato soup splashed across a van Gogh. This year, environmental activists all over the world made headlines with a series of shocking (and somewhat bizarre) attacks on famous works of art, vandalizing them with what seemed to be whatever was in their refrigerators. (Though it’s worth noting that none of the paintings were actually damaged.)

The attacks were certainly successful at getting people’s attention — newspapers across the world, including this one, published stories about them — though reactions were mixed. Many were outraged by the defacing of these masterpieces, insisting that the activists be held legally or even criminally responsible. Others who were more sympathetic to the activists’ cause came to their defense, arguing that their actions were justified given their noble intentions and the truly dire state of our planet.

The stunts, some of which were accompanied by sit-ins and speeches, were intended to draw international attention to the climate crisis at a moment when tamer forms of protest have not inspired collective action. Which raises the question: What is effective protest?

In April the Tesla C.E.O., wealthiest man on Earth, and avid tweeter Elon Musk moved to purchase Twitter for $44 billion. When, after many months of waffling, the sale finally went through in late October, Mr. Musk announced sweeping changes. He laid off nearly half the staff and announced that he would crack down on misinformation and impose an eight-dollar monthly subscription fee for verified status.

The world erupted into debate about the company’s future — much of it taking place on Twitter itself. Some mourned the imminent demise of the beloved platform, worrying that Mr. Musk’s more laissez-faire approach to content moderation would turn the site into a cesspool of misinformation and hate speech; others countered that Twitter already was a cesspool of misinformation and hate speech, and if Mr. Musk ran the company into the ground the world would be better for it.

The whole ordeal has reinvigorated a long-simmering debate about the role of social media in American politics and modern life.

When House Speaker Nancy Pelosi decided this summer that she would visit Taiwan, she knew she was stirring up a geopolitical hornet’s nest. China considers the island an integral part of its country and intends to reclaim it someday; Taiwan sees itself as a democratic fortress standing up to the world’s most powerful authoritarian. Ms. Pelosi seems to agree with the Taiwanese.

Even before her plane took off, commentators began weighing in. The Times Opinion columnist Thomas L. Friedman called it “utterly reckless, dangerous and irresponsible.” More hawkish commentators, meanwhile, urged her not to back down in the face of Chinese threats. In an Op-Ed of her own in The Washington Post, Ms. Pelosi wrote that the visit “should be seen as an unequivocal statement that America stands with Taiwan, our democratic partner, as it defends itself and its freedom.”

In the end, the speaker’s trip didn’t lead to a war between China and the United States. But it did ratchet up tensions in the Pacific, with the Chinese military circling the island and issuing warnings. It’s pretty clear that Xi Jinping’s mind didn’t change.

It wasn’t just about Maitland Jones Jr. But his story seemed to encapsulate what was on many Americans’ minds. When The Times reported in early October that Mr. Jones, a chemistry professor at New York University, had been fired following a petition from students complaining that his organic chemistry class was simply too hard — impossibly hard! — a debate erupted across the country: Is the problem students or the system?

The professor wasn’t just speaking for himself when he said that universities “coddle” students instead of giving them “tough love.” Many inside the academy and beyond feel that students these days prefer spoon feeding to long hours in the library. And it’s not just about orgo, either. The same generation that can’t handle hard work can’t handle ideas that it finds too “triggering,” either.

Or … maybe not. The Jones story was also instructive about changes to American higher education: how its increasing cost has led many debt-laden students to feel more like customers than pupils; how a system of gatekeeping is past its expiration date; how students are challenging old hierarchies of power; how colleges are relying on adjuncts to do more and more work — all topics worthy of serious discussion.

The Supreme Court’s decision in June to overturn Roe v. Wade was hardly a surprise. Just weeks earlier, a draft of the decision was leaked to Politico. Still, it felt like a shock to Americans on both sides of the divide over abortion rights. Even the pro-life movement has to admit that the court’s decision was out of step with public opinion: More than 60 percent of Americans want abortion to be legal in most cases.

While much discussion focused on the future of reproductive health care and rights, another issue quickly arose in the wake of the decision, and other conservative rulings on gun control and the environment: Was the Supreme Court losing its legitimacy? The court’s official duty is to interpret the Constitution, but historically, its rulings have largely been in line with popular opinion. Not anymore. Opinion polls showed that faith in the justices was at an all-time low.

Many legal scholars warned that America’s highest judicial body was undermining itself by moving too far to the right. Many conservatives, meanwhile, argued that that bridge had already been crossed with liberal rulings — including Roe — making the court seem like a political body rather than an independent arbiter of the law. Maybe the question is not if the court has lost its legitimacy, but when.

That the number of young people who identify as transgender is on the rise is not in dispute. But what does it mean? Is this a sign that more are living openly as their real selves, in a more welcoming society? Or a sign that the standard tumult of adolescence is being channeled in a new direction with potentially unintended consequences?

There are those like Erica Anderson, a transgender psychologist, who argue that clinicians today, acting in the name of tolerance and inclusivity, have become too ready to default to interventions like hormones or puberty blockers for every young person experiencing gender dysphoria, without performing the comprehensive individual mental health assessments that should accompany them. And then there are others — including many advocates for trans rights — who argue that the debates around trans youth are just another facet of a larger moral panic around gender, and dismiss the idea that joining the ranks of one of society’s most marginalized and vulnerable groups is a choice anyone would make lightly.

Where is all this going? It would be one thing if it could remain a discussion among those who, in good faith, are simply seeking the best way to help young people who are indisputably in distress. Unfortunately, these same young people are also indisputably being used by right-wing politicians across the country as cannon fodder in the culture wars. (See: Gov. Greg Abbott’s order that Texas health agencies should treat the provision of medical treatments to transgender young people as “child abuse.”) That’s a development that adds heat to the debate, but not much light.

“I’ve heard the word ‘diversity’ quite a few times, and I don’t have a clue what it means,” Justice Clarence Thomas told a lawyer for the University of North Carolina in a much-quoted line from oral arguments before the Supreme Court this fall that will determine the fate of affirmative action in America.

All signs point to the conservative court ending the current form of race-based preference in higher education admissions, many of which have been in place since the late 1960s. Some are cheering the looming end of a flawed system, which has succeeded in making elite campuses more racially diverse while still leaving them woefully out of touch with — and out of the reach of — most Americans. Others fret that the end of race-based preferences will come long before they have succeeded in their initial goal, as articulated by Lyndon Johnson in a 1965 speech at Howard University: giving Black people the same chance of success in America as white people.

But the discussion around affirmative action has also broadened. Diversity on campus: What does it mean? Would class-based admissions help achieve a better version of it? And who does it actually serve? Does it imply that minorities are instruments to improve the educational experience of the majority? Is the goal to make elite campuses more diverse or to help underprivileged Americans receive the best possible education — in which case, why focus on a handful of selective schools that serve a tiny percentage of the population?

The Supreme Court is expected to rule next summer — but it’s unlikely to be the last word.

Golf is supposed to be boring, right? Maybe not. The so-called gentleman’s game found itself in the center of a firestorm this year, with players openly sniping at one another in the press and pundits debating major ethical questions.

The firestorm began when plans for the LIV Golf Tour were announced this summer. The new tour, which kicked off with a tournament in Britain in June, is to be a rival to the more established P.G.A. and DP World Tours. Some players and fans say that LIV will undermine the legacy tours and permanently alter the professional game for the worse; LIV’s backers say it will push needed reforms to the P.G.A. But the biggest source of controversy? LIV’s primary backer is Saudi Arabia, which put some $400 million into getting it off the ground. (And, of course, there was Donald Trump: Several of LIV’s events have been held at clubs owned by the former president.)

Phil Mickelson, a P.G.A. champion, called the Saudis “scary” to get involved with, citing the 2018 killing of the Washington Post writer Jamal Khashoggi — the very reason, detractors say, that Saudi Arabia is trying to rehab its reputation through sports. But that wasn’t enough to stop Mr. Mickelson from joining LIV in the hopes that it puts pressure on the P.G.A. Now he insists that the new tour is “the winning side.” His biggest foil is also one of the game’s biggest stars: Tiger Woods, who was reportedly offered around $700 million if he signed onto LIV, has been one of its most vocal opponents, saying that the flood of money is bad for competition.

Even if this debate may have escaped your attention, its implications could be enormous for a world of sports increasingly awash in foreign cash.

When Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24, condemnation of President Vladimir Putin was swift and loud from across the political spectrum. So was support for the government in Kyiv. Out-and-out defenders of the Kremlin were exceedingly difficult to find in America.

But once Ukrainian forces drove the Russians back from Kyiv, and as the war dragged on through the summer and the fall, disagreements began to emerge. The United States and its European allies poured weapons and aid into Ukraine, but how was this going to end? Some figures — including left-wing members of Congress, anti-intervention analysts and the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff — suggested that the United States should begin pushing for negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv. How many more lives needed to be lost before a settlement was reached? Didn’t the dangers of the war spiraling out of control (Mr. Putin has, more than once, raised the threat of using nuclear weapons) make peace an imperative? Only diplomacy could bring the bloodshed to an end. Louder, though, were the voices calling for Washington to continue to back Ukraine as it made gains on the battlefield. The realist argument was, in the words of one Washington foreign policy specialist, “baloney.” And anyway, it would be up to Ukraine — not its allies — to decide when it’s finally time to come to the table.

As 2022 draws to a close, the fighting continues and peace talks look as distant as ever — which probably means that the debates will continue.

This summer, the art world was set abuzz when the Colorado State Fair’s annual art competition awarded its top prize to an A.I.-generated image: Jason Allen’s “Théâtre d’Opéra Spatial.” The image, which was created using an online software that produces complex and highly stylized images based on words entered into a text box, swiftly inspired a backlash from other artists who accused Mr. Allen of essentially cheating, and ignited a conversation about what, in the age of A.I., counts as art.

A.I.-generated art has been around for years. But tools released in 2022 — with names like DALL-E 2, Midjourney and Stable Diffusion — have made it easier than ever to produce visually striking images with little more than a few clicks. This has made many human artists understandably nervous about their futures. Why would anyone pay for art, they wonder, when they could just generate it themselves? It has also generated a fierce debate about the ethics of A.I.-generated art. On the one side are people like Mr. Allen, who believe A.I. art is the way of the future. As he put it: “Art is dead, dude. It’s over. A.I. won. Humans lost.” On the other are those who believe that something that requires so little skill or effort can’t truly rise to the level of art — or who say that what these apps produce essentially amounts to a high-tech form of plagiarism. Of course, that’s not going to stop people from using them.

We debated The Slap.

Was chris rock asking for it was chris rock asking for it.

We were split over what purpose the Jan. 6 committee served.

Was it necessary and vital to continued democracy, or an exercise in partisan politics was it necessary and vital to continued democracy, or an exercise in partisan politics.

We argued about crime.

Was crime a real problem — or was the perception of crime the problem was crime a real problem — or was the perception of crime the problem.

We mourned the queen. And debated her legacy.

Was queen elizabeth a high-minded public servant or a relic of imperialism was queen elizabeth a high-minded public servant or a relic of imperialism.

We debated (and debated and debated) about Twitter.

Is it a crucial town square worthy of saving or a force for the terrible is it a crucial town square worthy of saving or a force for the terrible.

We pondered Bitcoin and Ethereum and FTX and S.B.F.

Was it all just a fad or were you team buy-the-dip was it all just a fad or were you team buy-the-dip.

We debated student loan forgiveness.

Was president biden’s plan the way to a more just america or a handout for people who didn’t need one was president biden’s plan the way to a more just america or a handout for people who didn’t need one.

We argued about whether it was time to put away masks.

Are people who still wear them living in the past or looking out for their communities are people who still wear them living in the past or looking out for their communities.

We questioned the Supreme Court.

Did overturning roe make the court seem less legitimate did overturning roe make the court seem less legitimate.

We analyzed and argued over the Johnny Depp- Amber Heard case.

What did the trial reveal about the limits of #metoo what did the trial reveal about the limits of #metoo.

We discussed the rise in transgender youth.

How should we think about the fact that the number of trans kids has nearly doubled in recent years how should we think about the fact that the number of trans kids has nearly doubled in recent years.

We debated the lessons of the midterms.

Were they a victory for democrats or a defeat for republicans were they a victory for democrats or a defeat for republicans.

We gasped as beloved paintings were doused with soup.

Is anything that brings attention to climate change worthy, or were these just juvenile acts of vandalism is anything that brings attention to climate change worthy, or were these just juvenile acts of vandalism.

We debated hybrid work.

Is it the best of both worlds or the worst of both worlds is it the best of both worlds or the worst of both worlds.

We worried about inflation — and fought over how to fight it.

Prices are too high. would a recession be even worse prices are too high. would a recession be even worse.

We worried about Nancy Pelosi’s trip to Taiwan.

Was the house speaker standing up for human rights or making world war iii more likely was the house speaker standing up for human rights or making world war iii more likely.

We blew our minds over A.I. art.

Is it a real art or just a silly gimmick is it a real art or just a silly gimmick.

We debated how hard school should be.

Are we raising a generation of snowflakes or are some classes just plain unfair are we raising a generation of snowflakes or are some classes just plain unfair.

We asked if golfers are supposed to care about human rights.

Is a new saudi golf tournament about sportswashing or just another chance to hit the links is a new saudi golf tournament about sportswashing or just another chance to hit the links.

We argued about affirmative action.

Is diversity on campus an important enough goal to justify racial preferences is diversity on campus an important enough goal to justify racial preferences.

We debated how to end the war in Ukraine.

The bloodshed continues. when is it time to talk the bloodshed continues. when is it time to talk.

We debated the apocalypse.

Nuclear war and the death of american democracy were just around the corner. or were you just freaking out.

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166 Argumentative Essay Topics

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

Writing an argumentative essay is hard enough. But picking a good topic can sometimes get you stuck before you’ve even started.

Although it seems like a small part of the essay writing process, your topic idea can actually make or break your paper. Suppose the issue you’ve settled on doesn’t carry enough potential to be researched and explored from different sides. In that case, you may end up wasting a lot of time on unproductive work before you finally give up and try to find a better subject.

That’s why we compiled an extensive catalog of argumentative essay topics organized by subject matter that you can use for inspiration. Feel free to browse through all sections or jump to the area you’re looking for.

In this article:

Choosing a Great Argumentative Essay Topic

What makes a good argumentative essay topic, interesting and controversial, immigration, racism, and native american issues, science and research, technology and social media, health, medical, and nursing, psychology and mental health, music, popular culture, and other creative endeavors, funny, easy, and simple.

Before we jump into the lists, let’s go over what you need to look for in an essay topic.

Many students assume that they can pick an issue first and then think about their essay later. But that actually sets you up for potential disappointment. A topic may seem tenable or defensible at first, but once you dig a bit deeper, it may turn out the issue is settled beyond doubt, and there’s no real point in writing about it. It may also be a good idea to sketch out your argumentative essay outline and even draft a thesis statement before making a final decision about what you want to explore.

Here’s a helpful video that explains the importance of preliminary research:

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Another thing to consider is how fascinating the topic is for you . It’s great to engage your audience, but you can’t really be sure if an issue is captivating for your teacher or professor. But you can be entirely sure if it’s interesting to you. And the more you care about the subject you’ve chosen, the more enjoyable it will be for you to put in the work.

It may seem at first that you can write an essay about anything, so why bother thinking too much about the topic? Well, you can write about anything, but not everything you write can fit the requirements of your assignment. An argumentative essay has to fit a specific format and style, and the topic you pick has to conform to those. Here are a few main characteristics of a good argumentative essay topic:

If no one disagrees with the argument you’re trying to make, what’s the point of arguing about it? Trying to convince your audience that texting while driving is dangerous is a waste of time because the assumption is that most people don’t need convincing. That’s why it’s crucial to pick an issue with at least some validity on both sides.

If your topic is not specific enough, you can’t really make a good point one way or the other. Should we do more to protect animals? That depends—are we talking about rhinos or mosquitos? And who should do the protecting—governments or ordinary citizens? Drill down your topic to something you can make a definitive point about.

If you can’t find something to back your argument with, then maybe it’s purely a matter of opinion. Are pancakes better than pizza? Who’s to say? A good topic allows you to make a point based on facts. That said, defending an insupportable position is sometimes good practice for pure critical thinking and works great for impromptu assignments where there is no time for research.

Of course, after you’ve picked a topic, you still have to write the actual essay. Here’s a video to help guide you through the process:

166 Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas (Organized in Sections)

Below you’ll find a number of lists of argumentative essay topics organized in sections by subject matter. They range from sports to history and anything in between. Keep in mind that many of the issues have to do with more than one field of knowledge, so there is some overlap between sections.

You may notice that all of the topics are in the form of a question. We’ve done that to make them neutral towards the issue they touch upon, but for the purposes of an argumentative essay, you might want to convert them to a statement that conveys the claim you’ll support in your paper.

One of the best ways to ensure your audience is engaged in your essay is to choose a topic that’s, to some extent, contentious. Your teacher or professor is unlikely to doze off if the issue at hand is something that everyone has a strong opinion about. Controversy will make your job easier, too—it’s a lot more painless to do research and write when you have a genuine interest in the topic.

But there’s also a pitfall to hot-button topics, especially age-old ones. There’s a chance the arguments you choose have been made a thousand times already. That’s not to say you should never write about euthanasia or abortion. Just pick your ideas carefully and make sure they’re fresh and original to avoid making your audience yawn.

Below are a few controversial argumentative essay topics from across subject matters to give you inspiration:

• Should human cloning be allowed?
• Should abortion be subject to stricter regulation?
• Should there be greater gun control?
• Do video games cause violent behavior?
• Should the death penalty be abolished?
• Is torture justifiable as an interrogation technique?
• Should there be any exceptions to free speech?
• Did the #metoo movement go too far?
• Is capitalism the only effective economic system?

Most topics on this page can work for any academic level in which students are already versed in research and persuasive writing. But in this section, we’ve collected issues specifically related to education and sorted them into the different stages of school. So besides college, here you’ll find topics that can be used by high school and middle school students.

For College

Below is a selection of argumentative essay ideas that have to do with college life. Is college worth it? Is it too expensive? Read on to find similar questions.

• Should everyone go to college?
• Is college education overrated?
• Is college admission overly competitive?
• Are Ivy League colleges worth the cost?
• Has college tuition become too expensive?
• Should family income play a role in determining who gets a scholarship?
• Is a gap year beneficial or a waste of time?
• Are some college majors more valuable than others?
• What are the benefits of an MBA?
• Is an online college degree as good as one from a brick-and-mortar college?

For High School

Here you’ll find a collection of topics related to high school and all of its triumphs and struggles—perfect for students in this age group.

• Should schools be required to have security?
• Is standardized testing helping or hurting students?
• Does high school encourage creativity or conformity?
• Should high school students work during the school year?
• Should high school students be required to take drug tests?
• Should arts education be voluntary in high school?
• Should the senior year be voluntary?
• Is prom overrated?

For Middle School

Middle school is a great time to start developing writing skills and the ability to make a strong argument. Here’s a list of topics on middle school that are bound to be relatable for students of that age.

• Do teachers give middle school students too much homework?
• Should energy drinks be banned for middle schoolers?
• Should vending machines be banned in schools?
• Is school cafeteria food too unhealthy?
• Should middle school be single-sex or co-ed?
• Is distant learning effective for middle school students?
• Should students have a choice on what subjects to study in middle school?
• Should learning a foreign language be required in middle school?

As a bonus, we’re including a special section on bullying—an ongoing problem at all school levels that’s always worth discussing, including in an academic paper.

• Should schools do more to prevent bullying?
• Should parents of bullies be held responsible for their children’s behavior?
• Where is the line between pranks and bullying?
• Do kids bully others because they are mistreated at home?
• Is cyberbullying less harmful than real-life bullying?
• How should cyberbullying be punished?

To make children write an essay, even if it’s just one page, you definitely need to give them a topic they care about. Here are a few ideas:

• Is it ever acceptable to eat dessert before dinner?
• Is it OK for kids to read grown-up books?
• Should kids be allowed to watch grown-up movies?
• Should children get paid when they get good grades?
• Is it better to be a single child or to have siblings?
• Do parents treat their daughters differently than their sons?
• Should parents punish kids if they haven’t done their chores?

Whether you’re looking for a topic for your political science term paper or simply need a strong topic idea for your persuasive writing class, you’ll find something worth exploring in the list below.

• Are US elections representative of the will of the people?
• Should the voting age be lowered?
• Should voting be mandatory?
• Should the Electoral College be abolished?
• Should corporations pay more taxes?
• Should senators and house representatives have term limits?
• Should recycling be mandatory?
• Should prisoners be allowed to vote?
• Should same-sex marriage be allowed?
• Should healthcare be free for everyone?
• Will universal basic income be beneficial for society?

Religious issues often elicit a strong response, but beliefs are not always subject to rational argumentation. Still, such topics often touch on society as a whole and can be great subjects for a paper.

• Should creationism be part of the school curriculum?
• Is religion responsible for war?
• Is science an enemy of religion?
• Should public prayer be banned in schools?
• Should religion be taught in schools?
• Should laws be affected by religion?
• Should churches be required to pay taxes?

History is always up for debate, and there’s plenty of credible sources to explore, so if you need an essay topic for your history class, feel free to pick one from the list below.

As a bonus, we’ve added a couple of specialized subsections on World War 2 and American history.

• Can we ever know the “truth” about historical events?
• Is life better now than it was 100 years ago?
• Have peaceful revolutions ever led to real change?
• What caused the fall of the Roman Empire?
• Was Julius Caesar a tactical genius or a deranged dictator?
• Did European colonialism help or harm the colonized populations?
• Did nuclear weapons help make the world safer or more dangerous?
• Were the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki the only way to end World War 2?
• Should the US have stayed out of World War 2?
• What caused the rise of Nazism in Germany?
• Was Stalin’s rule more harmful than Hitler’s?
• Could World War 2 have been avoided if Hitler had been admitted to art school?

American History

• Who was the greatest US president of all time?
• Could the Civil War have been avoided?
• Was the Declaration of Independence a declaration of war?
• Was the Constitution a proslavery document?
• Should the US founding fathers who owned slaves be revered as much as those who didn’t?
• How did Abraham Lincoln’s assassination affect Reconstruction?

Here we have a group of issues that are often related, but we sometimes wish they weren’t. In any case, they’re an excellent opportunity to practice argumentative writing.

• Should it be mandatory for Americans to speak English fluently?
• Should immigrants who enter the US illegally be granted residency?
• Should children of immigrants who enter the US illegally be entitled to public education?
• Is affirmative action helping or hurting racial equality?
• Should the US government pay reparations for slavery?
• Is the Black Lives Matter movement equivalent to the Civil Rights movement?
• Should Columbus Day be abolished and replaced with Indigenous Peoples’ Day?
• Should Native Americans be compensated for how settlers treated them?

Here you’ll find topics related to various scientific fields that you’re bound to find evidence on to build a solid research paper.

• Should the government fund scientific research?
• Should corporate interests influence scientists?
• Do people have enough trust in science?
• What is the biggest issue facing humanity that scientists should focus on the most?
• Should we spend resources looking for alien life?
• Is space travel worth the cost?
• Do humans cause climate change?
• Is fracking harmful to the environment?
• Are scientific breakthroughs or government regulations a better solution to the environmental crisis?

Many issues around technology and social media are up for debate, so they can serve as an excellent basis for a persuasive essay.

• Is technology helping or hurting society?
• Has the internet caused more harm than good to society?
• Are we becoming too dependent on computers?
• Is technology making us more isolated?
• Is AI dangerous for humanity?
• Are smartphones dangerous?
• Is social media helping us stay connected or making us more lonely?
• Are social media companies responsible for the spread of fake news?
• Does social media contribute to political radicalization?
• Should Facebook be banned from collecting data from users?
• Should people be allowed to stay anonymous online?

In this section, we’ve curated argumentative essay topics related to health and medicine that are worth exploring.

• Should the morning-after pill be sold to underage teens?
• What is the best way to fight the obesity epidemic?
• Are GMOs dangerous?
• Should there be limits on sugary drink sizes?
• Is healthcare a fundamental human right?
• Should assisted suicide be legalized?
• Should doctors be banned from promoting drugs?
• Should medical marijuana be legal?
• Should parents be able to deny medical treatment for their children?
• Are nurses compensated fairly?
• Should nurses be allowed to prescribe drugs?
• Is the nursing profession better suited for women?

If you’re struggling to come up with an argumentative essay topic for your psychology class, feel free to pick one from the list below.

• Does screen time negatively affect children’s psyche?
• Should psychotherapists inform the police if a client admits to breaking the law?
• Do dreams have any meaning?
• Is positive thinking helpful or harmful?
• Can lie detectors ever be trusted?
• Are projective tests such as inkblots reliable?
• Can hypnosis help us remember forgotten events?
• Is prejudice against different people inherent to humans?
• Is anxiety ever helpful?

There’s no shortage of discussions surrounding sports, but they’re often too specialized to be interesting for the layman. Here are a few broad and contentious ones that can lay the grounds for a strong argumentative essay.

• Should athletes be considered role models?
• Should coaches make as much money as players?
• Should athletes face repercussions if they don’t stand for the National Anthem?
• Is football too dangerous?
• Is sports betting different from casino gambling?
• Is cheerleading a real sport?
• Do sports rely too much on computer predictions nowadays?
• Should performance-enhancing drugs be allowed in sports?

Here you’ll find argumentative essay topics related to music, films, and other art forms that shape today’s pop culture.

• Is music getting better or worse over time?
• Is listening to music an effective remedy against stress?
• Are television shows an accurate representation of the American lifestyle?
• Did the golden age of Hollywood pass?
• Should celebrities be considered role models?
• Should any artwork be censored?
• Is art unique to humans, or can it be observed in other animals?

If you care about animals, you might want to write an argumentative paper on a topic related to animal welfare. Here are a few ideas:

• Should animal research be banned?
• Should zoos or aquariums be banned and replaced with wildlife reserves?
• Should fur be banned?
• Should we stop eating animals?
• Should the government try to save endangered species?
• Is hunting for sport justifiable, or should it be banned?
• Do animals have emotions?
• Do pets help kids learn to be caring and empathetic?

Sometimes you just don’t want to deal with complex and serious issues or excessive research. That’s why we curated a collection of light-hearted and easy argumentative essay topics.

• Is complaining helping us deal with stress?
• Is talent more important than hard work or vice versa?
• How much compromise is OK in a relationship?
• Should couples live together before getting married?
• How important is it to keep your home clean and tidy?
• At what age do you become an adult?
• Are parents entitled to knowing everything about their kids?
• How long is it acceptable to stay in a restaurant after finishing your meal?

Looking for a topic for a different type of essay? We’ve compiled a huge catalog in our Essay Topics page. If you want something that carries a stronger emotional charge for your paper, speech, or debate, you can also check out our list of Controversial Topics .

127 Funny Controversial Topics

121 Funny Debate Topics for Your Class

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100+ Controversial Research Topics and Ideas to Focus On

Table of Contents

Everything on this earth is not either right or wrong. Some topics that are related to subjects such as science, religion, ethics, society, and the environment are debatable and have multiple contrasting perspectives. So, when it comes to preparing research papers, the majority of the students will not consider such controversial topics because of the challenges involved in it. However, at times, some professors will ask students to submit high-quality papers on controversial research topics. In such a case, you can compose your research paper on any of the controversial topics that are listed in this blog. Moreover, from here, you can also learn how to find a perfect topic and craft a detailed controversial research paper with valid evidence. Continue reading to update your knowledge of controversial research paper writing.

Controversial Research Paper Topic Selection

All controversial research topics seem to have equal importance. Hence, choosing the right subject often becomes tricky. To make it easy, take the following steps:

Step 1: Find Something Inspirational

Choose a topic that inspires you and you have enough knowledge on the subject. It will reduce the time for researching and completing the assignment quickly.

Step 2: Narrow Down Your Ideas

While you choose controversial topics, narrow down your ideas. However, if the theme is quite broad, see if you can add your opinion on the subject.

Step 3: Explore The Counter Arguments

Ensure that you can add a high level of counterarguments to justify the controversial nature of the topic.

Step 4: Find Unusual Facts

Research the unusual facts that can strengthen your paper.

Choose the topic that meets all these criteria.

However, choosing the right topic is useless unless you know how to write about it.

Controversial Research Paper Writing Tips

Now, that you have clear ideas on how to choose the right controversial topics. Next, let us learn the tips to make your writing stand out:

1.  Research Your Topic from Different Perspectives

Look at the topic from varied perspectives and research it. It will help readers to engage on the subject and question various morals and ideas. Moreover, examine the counterviews of the subject and add sufficient facts to prove it.

2.  Use Your Language Tactfully

Your readers may take statements personally if you write uncensored brutal facts. Hence, avoid it. For example, saying that smoking is a harmful act may make your reader defensive if he is a chain smoker. In place of that, you can state that smoking may block in smooth functioning of the lungs.

3.  Allow readers to think

Explore the entire controversy in your assignment and allow your readers to take their side and form their opinion on the subject.

List of the Best Controversial Research Topics

Are you looking for some controversial topics to make your assignment interesting? Then, look at the 118 controversial research topics listed below. You will surely have an interesting idea that will help you score high grades.

Controversial Research Topics for College Students

Are you a college student? Do you need a controversial theme for your assignment? Then, these controversial topics will surely meet your academic needs.

• Patients admitted without insurance and their safety.
• Video games and the aggression that it induces.
• How does a nurse impact a patient’s behavior?
• All vegetarians lead a healthy life – What is your viewpoint on the subject?
• Covid-19 and the debate surrounding it.
• Individual medical data and its revelation.
• Disabilities among the learners- How to take care of it.
• Religious disagreement and their genesis.
• Feminine versus masculine parenting.
• Examine the moral character of beauty salons.
• Analyzing the disadvantage of the fashion industry.
• The United States and its peripheral politics.
• The entitlement of criminals to vote.
• Consent for using smartphones in academic institutions.
• Social media and harmful body image.

Controversial Research Topics For High School Students

High school students do not need a complicated topic to score high grades on their papers on controversial themes. Intriguing ideas are their basic requirements. Find some simple yet fascinating ideas below:

• Expression of slavery in the television media.
• Examine the issues of vaccine allocation.
• Medical tourism and its issues.
• The downbeat effects of nightclubs.
• Reasons for global warming- Who is to be held liable?
• Poland and its law for abortion.
• Describe the ethical characteristics of decriminalizing abortion in the United States of America.
• Weapon laws and its present scenario: An American perspective.
• Describe the limited nature of Catholicism.
• What are the primary limits and bans in Middle-east countries?
• Alcohol intake and its relation to rape.
• Alcohol intake and its relation with household violence.
• Gender Prejudice on the Ground of educational science and medicine.
• Juvenile criminal behavior and fairness in the United States.
• Discuss the reasons behind juvenile delinquency.

Controversial Topics For Research Scholars

Are you a research scholar? Do you need controversial topics to submit an excellent paper? Consider these topics below:

• Children looking after their young siblings- What are your viewpoints?
• Luxury parties and their ban.
• Authorization of smartphones in junior schools.
• Males versus Females – their excellence in Science.
• Religion must be an obligatory subject in schools.
• The unfavorable effect of nightclubs.
• Indication of slavery in the print media.
• Examining the unclear view of humanity in the USA.
• Ban social media platforms used by children.
• Municipal Education versus Montessori Education- Explore the danger of Montessori education.
• Unequal allocation of medical services across the globe.
• How is opium used for painkilling purposes?
• Close down the tax scheme for the poor population.
• Sportsperson and morality.
• Significance of coaching martial arts in schools.

Amazing Controversial Research Topics

The following are some excellent controversial topics that you can consider for your research work.

• How to deal with the death penalty differently.
• Approach towards Aids patients.
• Why to excuse student loan amount overdue- Examine from the college viewpoint.
• Ban on addictive drug manufacture
• Ban on alcohol procure and use among young adults
• Should extravagance parties and congregation be forbidden?
• The negative side of the glamour and amusement industry
• Should you restrict nightlife from adolescents?
• Allotment of the COVID-19 vaccine at academic institutions for free
• Significance of martial arts for girls.
• Should women have reserved seats at workplaces?
• Enclosure and anti-favoritism policies in academic institutions and workplaces.
• The public college controversies open Pandora’s box in North Carolina.
• Should nurses and healthcare experts be permitted to look after criminals by keeping their personal information from the police?
• Should student credits be permitted for every student?

Captivating Controversial Research Ideas

The following are some captivating controversial ideas on which you can prepare your research paper.

• Should college lecturers and school teachers be allowed to offer private tuition?
• The security of uninsured patients.
• The ethical aspect of marijuana legalization.
• Should the government allow elder children to watch over their younger siblings?
• The aggression in video games among adults.
• Is being a non-vegetarian healthy?
• The effect of cell phones on health.
• The function of a nurse is to maintain the confidentiality of crime information.
• Community colleges and their unenthusiastic outlook.
• Tobacco posters and their effects.
• Cocaine legalization and its moral aspects.
• Keeping out the admission of minors in beauty salons.
• Capital punishment and its profit for the media.
• Explain the significance of school uniforms or should be brought to an end.
• Free college education– What is your point of view?
• Rock musicians and their substance promotion.
• Forbidding animals in diverse research work.
• Social media dependence and its impact on human life.
• Civil Rights and its Effect on people from Low-income background.
• Liberty to Speak and restriction.

Impressive Controversial Research Questions

Looking for some impressive controversial research topics? Take a look at the ideas presented below:

• Weather Change.
• Death Penalty vs. Capital Punishment – Which one is appropriate?
• Abortion of fetus.
• Social Security and its relation to immigrants in America.
• Artificial Intelligence and dependency of humans on it.
• Health Insurance – whether it is useful?
• Addictive drug legalization.
• Obligatory vaccination for Covid-19.
• Rights of women in every sphere of life.
• Religious freedom and how it impacts people.
• Ethical hacking – should it be allowed?
• Authority of labor union – Can it bring an organization down?
• Growth of extremism in the 21 st
• Outsourcing by administration organizations.
• Rifle control.

Trending Controversial Research Topics

Get the most popular controversial topics below:

• Police cruelty.
• Cyber safety.
• Relocation Act of the United States.
• Cybercrime: occurrence, confrontations, and authorized response.
• Right to bereavement.
• Montessori Schools: A danger to the community education system.
• Should sacred studies be incorporated into schools mandatorily?
• Life captivity and treatment home: Which is best on the moral ground?
• Biggest terrorization for sustainable tourism.
• Should kids be allowed access to beauty salons?
• Vaccine distribution is an issue.
• Worldwide uneven access to healthcare.
• The management of AIDS patients.

Read more: Top Controversial Research Topics for College Students

Classic Controversial Topics for Research

Here are a few topics that have been a cause of debate for years:

• What health risks are associated with using a cell phone?
• Should we prohibit using flora and fauna in a diversity of research projects?
• Do human activities add to global warming?
• Why does human take varied stances on the death penalty?
• Should those with good wealth be charged more taxes?
• The corporate industry’s dark side.
• The unenthusiastic aspect of clubs.
• Private colleges and their high reputation.
• How far should the government permit psychological studies on obedience and conscience to be carried out?
• Should nurses and physicians be allowed to wear religious attire?

Excellent Controversial Research Ideas

Listed below are some outstanding controversial ideas that will help you in crafting a brilliant research paper:

• Are too many immigrants a threat to a nation’s culture?
• Discuss the benefits of mandatory military service.
• Analyze the pros and cons of cremation vs. traditional burial.
• Discuss problems that occur with charity work and donations.
• Multiculturalism as a feminist concept.
• Discuss the potential success rate of a global diet.
• Does marriage have to be religious?
• Discuss how polyamorous relationships can work.
• Discuss the efficacy of prison rehabilitation.
• Is sport more than merely physical exercise?

Wrapping Up

From the list of 100+ ideas recommended in this blog, choose any debatable topic of your choice and compose an excellent controversial research paper. But while you work on controversial research topics, carefully present your points and build your discussion in a convincing manner because it may lead to any problem. In case, you have no idea what topic to choose or if you are unsure how to prepare your controversial research paper in a persuasive way, then call us immediately.

On our platform, we have numerous proficient academic writers to offer premium-quality research paper help on all controversial topics. Most importantly, by utilizing our research paper writing service online, you can complete your tasks ahead of the deadline and achieve top grades.

Why you are still in a dilemma? Feel free to book your order on our website and buy a personalized academic paper on any controversial subject from our skilled research paper helpers online at an affordable price.

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The 30 Most Controversial Topics for Your Position Paper

What are the most controversial topics today? What are the most hotly debated controversial issues in politics, culture and public life? Which are the controversial topics that most sharply divide us. Which public debates actually define us? We answer these questions with our ranking of The 30 Most Controversial Topics Today. We also provide an objective overview of these controversial issues, which makes this a great source for finding controversial essay topics!

The Top 30 Controversial Topics

Affirmative action, artificial intelligence, black lives matter, censorship and freedom of speech, charter schools, civil rights, climate change, covid vaccine mandates, critical race theory, death penalty/capital punishment, electoral college, foreign aid, gun control, health insurance, labor unions, marijuana legalization, minimum wage, nuclear energy, outsourcing, police brutality, religious freedom, reparations, social security.

• Trump and the Big Lie

Women’s Rights

If you visit each debate topic’s page, you will find a study guide that includes:

• A breakdown of the leading positions in the controversial topic;
• A brief history of the controversial topic in American life;
• A list of the most influential people and most influential books in the recent history of the controversy;
• A glimpse at the current status of the controversial topic; and
• A vetted selection of key people on all sides of the debate topic today.

Any one of these controversial essay topics could be a strong starting point for your next research project or argumentative essay. You will learn how to study successfully for your research assignments. Read on for examples of controversial topics for your next position paper, persuasive essay, or even for a starting point on your graduate thesis...

Controversy is everywhere. It’s up to each of us to decide our level of involvement in the public debate. College offers an amazing opportunity to explore these controversial issues, and to determine where you fit into the conversation.

The university is a place where we are taught to question our own assumptions, challenged to defend our ideas, and trained to probe for a more complete understanding of the controversial issues defining our times. College is also an environment where free speech, open discourse, and informed debate are meant to flourish. Of course, as human beings, we are bound to disagree, and sometimes quite passionately.

That’s why controversial topics will play such an important role in your higher education. Indeed, controversy is everywhere. Whether you want to learn more about a few interesting controversial topics, you’ve been assigned a research paper on a controversial essay topic, or you plan to build a career based on the ideas you’re learning to defend today , you will encounter controversy in your education and in your life.

That’s why we’ve decided to take the most important controversial topics by the horns. Wherever you are in your educational journey , you should not only anticipate, but embrace, the opportunity to explore some of the most important controversial debate topics of our times. This includes prospective college essay topics like drug abuse, the opioid crisis, freedom of speech, freedom of religious belief, global warming, laws concerning illegal immigrants, brutality by police officers, and much more.

College students studying foreign affairs, criminal justice, economics, political science, sociology and countless other subjects are sure to find a controversial topic worthy of their next argumentative essay.

Our spotlight on each controversial topic includes an overview of the subject matter, key points of disagreement, and a look at the impact of major influencers. Use these controversial issues as a way to begin your argumentative essay, formulate your own position, and even connect personally with professors, activists, and thought leaders who hold influence over the subject matter.

What is a controversial topic?

A controversial topic is a prolonged public dispute or debate. Controversial topics are typically played out through public channels like news media, electoral politics, and social media. What perhaps most distinguishes a controversial topic from mere disagreement is the heated, sometimes emotional, and often diametrically opposed viewpoints that frame a given issue. People often bring religious beliefs, personal ethics, business interests and countless other deeply held feelings into controversial debate topics.

And of course, many controversial political topics also carry very really consequences, as shown by the very current public debates over abortion rights, the call for stricter gun control laws, global climate change and other high-stakes issues. That why many of these controversial issues engender strong enough disagreement to inspire organization, political action, protest, and policy development.

Now that you understand what controversial topics are, read on for a look at the 30 controversial debate topics most directly shaping public discourse, and indeed, shaping public life in American today.

The 30 Most Controversial Topics Over the Last 25 Years

The Civil Rights Movement refers to one of the most consequential struggles in American history, one that continues to present date. Civil Rights refer to the freedoms, liberties, and protections under the law that are meant to be accorded to all people. But civil rights advocates argue that racial inequality is ingrained in American life through realities like economic disenfranchisement, police brutality, and mass incarceration. The Civil Rights controversy pits groups, organizations, and communities who advocate for greater racial equality against those who work to maintain or advance a white racial hierarchy.

Learn more about the Civil Rights Controversy.

The First Amendment in the Bill of Rights protects the freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, freedom of religious expression, and the right to a free press against government restriction. As a key component in the very first article of the Bill of Rights, free speech is among the most cherished and frequently-cited protections built into the U.S. Constitution. However, because the content of that speech and expression may itself provoke sharp disagreement, the true controversy in this issue extends from differing ideas about what constitutes “protected speech” as well as the methods that should or shouldn’t be used to limit free speech. This underscores the debate around Freedom of Speech and Censorship.

Learn more about the Censorship and Freedom of Speech Controversy.

The climate change debate concerns the impact of human activity on the earth’s temperature, as well as its impact on weather patterns, plant-life, wildlife, and human health. On one side of the debate, most in the scientific community believe that human activity is responsible for climate change. On the other side, some journalists, political leaders, and industry advocates argue either that global climate change is not actually occurring, or that climate change is the result of natural meteorological patterns unrelated to human activity. Some also argue that economic imperatives should be prioritized over environmental concerns.

Learn more about the Climate Change Controversy.

Stand on the front lines in the fight against climate change with a degree in environmental science .

Capital punishment refers to the use of the death penalty as a form of legal punishment administered by the state. Capital punishment in the U.S. has long been the subject of constitutional, philosophical and practical disagreement, and as such, has been subject to legal fluctuation. As of the time of writing, the United States is one of 56 nations worldwide, and one of just four developed democracies (alongside Japan, Taiwan, and Singapore) which uses death penalty. The U.S. is also the only developed Western nation to employ capital punishment.

Learn more about the Death Penalty and Capital Punishment Controversy.

Abortion refers to the act of terminating a pregnancy before it can be carried to term. The abortion controversy concerns the ongoing debate and battle over the legal status of abortion in the U.S., both at the state and national levels. Abortion is among the most divisive issues in American public discourse. Views on abortion often carry religious, political, and cultural overtones. The debate is largely framed by two competing views: The Pro-Choice view, that abortion is a woman’s constitutionally-protected right; and the Pro-Life view, that abortion is immoral, and that the government should have the right to restrict and/or punish abortion.

Learn more about the Abortion Controversy.

Social Security refers to the federal social insurance program in the United States, which provides financial and medical benefits to older Americans, as well as the disabled and some who have been widowed or orphaned by working age adults. All working Americans contribute to Social Security through a dedicated payroll tax. The Social Security controversy refers to a complex economic and philosophical debate over how Social Security should be funded, dispersed, and managed. Some advocate for its continuity as a federal program while others argue that social security should be privatized and removed from government control.

Learn more about the Social Security Controversy.

Artificial intelligence (AI), in the simplest terms, refers to computing which aims to mimic human cognitive functions like learning, problem solving, and adaptation to environmental conditions. With the evolution of computer science, computing machines have accelerated in their capacity to demonstrate “intelligence” in areas such as reasoning, planning, natural language processing, perception, and much more.

Learn more about the Artificial Intelligence Controversy.

Advance the technology behind AI, machine learning, automation and more with a degree in data science and analytics .

Health Insurance refers to financial coverage for healthcare expenses. Health coverage is among the most intensely debated subjects in American life, both because of the generally high cost of healthcare expenses, and because access to coverage varies significantly based on employment and socioeconomic status. Some Americans believe the government should take greater responsibility for the millions who are uninsured or underinsured, with many arguing that the United States should provide universal medical and mental health coverage for all Americans. By contrast, others believe that paying for health coverage should be the individual responsibility of every American, and argue that universal healthcare coverage is a socialist policy.

Learn more about the Health Insurance Controversy.

Women’s Rights refers to the ongoing movement in the U.S. to improve gender equity through legislation, activism, public service, political participation, and more. The United States was founded as a patriarchy, restricting women from owning property, voting, or enjoying the rights of citizenship. The women’s rights movement uses activism, policy advocacy, and non-profit organization to improve gender equality and close the gender pay gap, whereas the opponents of this movement may argue that gender equality already exists, or that women are biologically unequal to men and therefore deserving of secondary status.

Learn more about the Women’s Rights Controversy.

Advance the public discussion on women’s rights and equality with a degree in gender studies .

On its surface, the controversy over religious freedom in the U.S. concerns the right of individuals to practice their religion freely and without infringement by individuals, groups, or the government. But since the dawn of American history, the debate over religious liberty has been clouded by conflicts between different groups and belief systems, especially when the belief system of one group risks discrimination against another group. While the right to practice one’s religion is a core Constitutional protection, debate persists over the meaning of religious freedom and whether this freedom can be used to exempt groups from certain laws, including anti-discrimination laws.

Learn more about the Religious Freedom Controversy.

Minimum wage refers to the lowest hourly wage that an employer may legally pay an employee under state and federal law. The controversy over the minimum wage concerns the belief that a living wage should be a fundamental right for all American workers and is opposed by the belief that regulatory control over wage thresholds risk imposing undue economic burdens on employers with potentially deleterious effects on the economy as a whole.

Learn more about the Minimum Wage Controversy.

Atheism is defined as the absence of a belief in deities, or the rejection of a belief in deities, or the belief that no deities exist. These nuances underscore the complexity of individual views on religion and theology, and by extension, the complexity of this debate. The controversy over atheism concerns disagreement between those who believe in the existence of deities and those who do not believe in the existence of deities, and more specifically, how these divergent beliefs should be treated in public spaces. As a result, this controversy touches closely on issues of religious freedom, the separation of church and state, and freedom of expression.

Learn more about the Atheism Controversy.

Reparations for slavery refers to the idea of compensating the victims of African slavery and their descendants for the abuses suffered under U.S. law. The idea of reparations for the victims of African slavery in America emerged as early as the colonial era, but took on particular relevance after the Civil War and the Emancipation Proclamation. While some individual former slaves and their descendants have received reparations of some type, the vast majority have not, owing to the absence of any lasting or comprehensive federal policy. This absence keeps the reparations controversy relevant, as advocates, activists, and public leaders continue to call for the adoption of some form of reparations, both in compensation for slavery, and for the injustices visited upon succeeding generations of Black Americans.

Learn more about the Reparations Controversy.

Hacking refers to the use of computing skills to penetrate, disrupt, or interfere with a computer system by non-standard avenues. Hacking is a controversial issue because this skill can be used for many different purposes both lawful and unlawful; ethical and unethical. Some hackers use their skills for criminal activities while others may use their skills to create cybersecurity defenses against malicious actors. Activists may use hacking to undermine dictatorship just as dictators might use hacking to suppress individual liberties.

Learn more about the Hacking Controversy.

Help in the fight against criminal hacking with a degree in cybersecurity .

A labor union refers to an organized alliance of workers, often joined by a shared industry or trade, but also frequently joined across different labor industries. Labor unions use a tactic referred to as collective bargaining to improve worker conditions, advance wages, and secure benefits, as well as supporting members in disputes with management, and engaging in political action and lobbying. The controversy over labor unions concerns the historical and ongoing conflict of ideals, methods and goals between labor leaders, organizers and union members on one side, and business management, ownership, and industry lobby groups on the other side.

Learn more about the Labor Unions Controversy.

Extremism refers to beliefs and actions that are of an extreme or fanatical nature. Extremism is often connected to political, religious or racialist ideologies that fall far outside of the mainstream. Extremism is often associated with fringe groups such as white supremacists, jihadist terrorists, or religious fundamentalists, and is distinguished from traditional activism for its radical and sometimes violent methods. The controversy over extremism centers on the disagreement between those who subscribe to extremist views and extremist actions, and those who reject the views or methods of extremism, as well as those who work actively to prevent extremism.

Learn more about the Extremism Controversy.

Gain a better understanding of the reasons people resort to extremism with a degree in psychology .

The United States Electoral College is a group of 538 delegates-representing the 50 United States and the District of Columbia-who meet every four years to elect the President and Vice President of the United States. Though the Electoral College is written into the U.S. Constitution, it is also a source of ongoing controversy. This is because the outcome of the electoral vote is the sole determinant of the presidency. Critics argue that this model renders the national popular vote meaningless, undermines the principle of “one-person, one vote,” and results in widespread voter disenfranchisement. Debate over the Electoral College has been magnified by recent elections in which the winner of the national popular vote did not win the electoral vote and thus, did not win the presidency.

Learn more about the Electoral College Controversy.

The term vaccine refers to a form of medical treatment which may be used to preemptively inoculate individuals and populations against infectious diseases. The controversy over vaccines stems from a social phenomenon called vaccine hesitancy, as well as an organized anti-vaccination, or anti-vax, movement. Those who support the use of vaccines point to extensive scientific evidence that vaccines are both safe and effective, whereas those who oppose vaccines believe that vaccines are either unnecessary or unsafe.

Learn more about the Vaccines Controversy.

Outsourcing refers to the business practice of hiring outside consultants, freelance workers, or third-party agencies to complete work that might otherwise be handled in-house. The practice of outsourcing is also highly connected to the rise of globalization, free-trade, and the practice of “offshoring,” in which American companies will open facilities and employ laborers in other countries where wage standards, environmental restrictions, and costs of operation are lower. The outsourcing controversy centers on the conflicting interests of corporate profitability and free market capitalism on one side, and, on the other side, concerns over heightened American unemployment and the exploitation of low-wage workers in the developing sphere.

Learn more about the Outsourcing Controversy.

Gun Control refers to legislation aimed at curbing gun violence in America. The gun control controversy centers on disagreement between sectors of the American public, as well as their political representatives, over the legal implications of the Second Amendment of the Constitution, which grants Americans the right to bear arms. Some argue that the ongoing public health crisis of gun violence necessitates more restrictions around gun manufacturing, sales and ownership while others argue that such regulation is unconstitutional, disagree that stricter gun control laws would lower the occurrence of gun violence, and often point to underlying issues such as mental illness and the need for better training of police officers.

Learn more about the Gun Control Controversy.

United States foreign aid, also referred to as foreign assistance or international aid, is “aid given by the United States to other countries to support global peace, security, and development efforts, and provide humanitarian relief during times of crisis,” according to ForeignAssistance.gov. The controversy over foreign aid divides those who believe there are strategic, economic, and moral imperatives justifying this use of American resources for foreign aid versus those who believe this is a misappropriation of funding that should instead be spent on domestic priorities.

Learn more about the Foreign Aid Controversy.

Nuclear energy refers to the use of nuclear reactions such as nuclear fission, nuclear fusion, and nuclear decay in order to produce power. The controversy over nuclear energy concerns both its perceived impact on the environment and its capacity for weaponization. This history of nuclear energy centers on the expansion of war-making capabilities and, specifically, the creation of weapons capable of mass casualty and mass destruction. But over time, nuclear energy has also become at once an ingrained part of the power grid in the United States and the world. Today, the global debate over nuclear energy concerns its safety, environmental impact, capacity for civil energy production, and its global proliferation as a source of potentially catastrophic weaponry.

Learn more about the Nuclear Energy Controversy.

Police brutality refers to the use of excessive or unnecessary force by law enforcement officers, but may also refer to excessive force used by corrections officers and prison officials. The controversy over police brutality centers on disagreement over the extent of force that law enforcement should be entitled to use while engaging suspects, perpetrators, prisoners, and other members of the general public. Those who believe that police brutality is a problem would argue that the current system of law enforcement gives officers too much discretion and impunity in using violent methods of engagement while those who don’t believe police brutality is a problem would argue that the dangerous nature of law enforcement requires that officers have far-reaching discretion in carrying out their duty, including the use of potentially violent confrontational tactics.

Learn more about the Police Brutality Controversy.

Help bring an end to police brutality with a degree in criminal justice .

Affirmative action refers to an array of policies and practices aimed at redressing historical and ingrained inequalities, especially those experienced by people of color and women as a consequence of systemic discrimination. Affirmative action usually takes the form of education and employment initiatives aimed at creating access and opportunities for individuals from groups that have faced such discrimination. The controversy over affirmative action divides those who believe this is an effective way to push back against the sociological impact of systemic discrimination versus those who believe affirmative action is either ineffective or is, itself, a discriminatory policy.

Learn more about the Affirmative Action Controversy.

A charter school is an educational institution that provides free and uniquely structured educational opportunities to students and families seeking an alternative to traditional public school. Charter schools are a product of the demand for greater school choice, especially in cities where public schools often struggle to provide a high quality educational experience. The controversy over charter schools concerns the belief that charter schools are a valuable alternative to traditional public schooling, especially for disadvantaged or at-risk student populations versus the belief that charter schools divert funding and resources from traditional public schools.

Learn more about the Charter Schools Controversy.

Trump and the “Big Lie”

The controversy over Trump and the “Big Lie” centers on the results of the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election and Donald Trump’s efforts to overturn these results. In the months leading up to the November election, sitting President Donald Trump and his supporters and allies made widespread preemptive allegations that the outcome of the election would be rigged, and that a massive conspiracy was already underway involving crooked Democratic operatives, corrupt state voting commissions, preprogrammed voting machines, foreign Communist interference, and more.

Learn more about the Trump and the “Big Lie”.

Black Lives Matter is a modern protest movement centered around civil rights causes impacting Black Americans, especially as they relate to police brutality, vigilante violence, and institutional inequality in the American legal system. Black Lives Matter is at once a multi-chapter organization with concentrated leadership and a decentralized global movement engaged in widespread activism.

Learn more about the Black Lives Matter Movement .

A new surge in cases is gripping the United States. Schools all over the country are adopting vaccine mandates. Vaccine skeptics argue these mandates are a violation of individual liberties. A prominent anti-vaccination activist writes “Vaccination is the putting of an impure thing into the blood – a virus or poison – often resulting in serious evil effects. In vogue for more than one hundred years, it has been received by most persons without question. Yet the time is passing when people will accept a medical dogma on blind faith; they now demand to know something about the practices to which they are called on to submit.”

Learn more about the COVID Vaccine Mandates Controversy .

The controversy over Critical Race Theory (CRT) centers on whether or not this subject should be taught in schools. And to an extent, the Critical Race Theory controversy also extends from differing views on exactly what defines Critical Race Theory. To supporters, Critical Race Theory refers to a university-level subject that addresses the intersection between race, law, and systemic inequality. To opponents, Critical Race Theory refers to any effort to inject discourse over race, gender, diversity, or discrimination into public school curricuclum at any level of education. The result of these differing views–both on what defines CRT, and whether it should be taught in schools–is a heated public debate being placed out in city council chambers, school board meetings, and the halls of Congress.

Learn more about the Critical Race Theory Controversy:

• Controversial Topic: Critical Race Theory
• Critical Race Theorists

The cannabis industry is in a state of steady growth. For students already with a background in subjects like business, law, chemistry, and plant biology, this growth represents great professional opportunity. And for students interested in taking a more direct route, a number of fully accredited colleges and universities now offer courses, certifications, minors, and even four-year bachelor’s degrees in cannabis studies. We’ve highlighted the top schools for studying marijuana—and as a bonus, we’ve included a ranking of the Top Cannabis Influencers and the Most Influential Books About Cannabis from the last half-century.

Learn more about the Marijuana Legalization Controversy .

How Did We Choose these Controversies?

We wanted to know exactly which controversial topics were actually the “most controversial.”

Our machine-learning algorithm measures influence based on Wikipedia pageviews and links. This provides a point-based way of scoring the permeation, visibility, frequency, and quality of mentions. At AcademicInfluence, Influence Rankings are used to identify and rank academics and thought leaders for their relative influence.

Using our behind-the-scenes Ranking Analytics tool, we applied the same standard to measuring the breadth of a given controversy. Those topics which scored the most “influence points,” based on page views and links, could therefore be identified as the “most” controversial for the sheer breadth of coverage they have received in the public forum.

It should be noted that the breadth of topical coverage is not necessarily reflective of the intensity or emotional disagreement surrounding a given controversy so much as the degree to which it has been publicly discussed, debated, written on, and read about. In essence, “most controversial” is a measure of how widely a topic is covered and how widely people actually read the Wikipedia articles covering it.

What’s Missing and Why?

There is no limit to the number of topics that could be used to spark a spirited debate. Certainly, countless worthy topics have fallen just short of our decidedly exclusive list of 30. A topic which is close to your heart may not be here. Be assured, this is not because we overlooked these important topics, but because our Ranking Analytics revealed fewer page-views and links in connection with these topics than with those which did make our list.

Time frame also played a big role in our findings. Our search parameters were bound between the years 2000 and 2020. A different time frame would likely have revealed a different landscape of controversies.

Evolutionary theory, for instance, ranked #36 on our list, and therefore fell short of the Top 30. However, it is entirely likely that this topic would have ranked far higher on the same list had it been compiled to coincide with the Scopes Monkey Trial in the 1920s.

Limitations

Among the limitations to our method, our algorithm doesn’t provide a comprehensive measure of how related terms might rank for page views and links. However, it is our goal over time to refine our machine-learning engine to identify and account for more sweeping views of a given topic.

We should also note that discussions are largely focused on controversial debte topics in American public life. Far too many cultural, social, geographic, and political realities shape the different ways in which various national publics perceive and approach controversial topics. Such subject matter demands focus and context. Therefore, while some of the influencers and historical notes included may touch on controversy in countries other than the U.S., this is, by design, an ethnocentric list of controversial topics revolving around American controversies.

Digging Into Controversy: How We Do It

Now that you know how we’ve identified the most controversial topics, be aware that we have no intention of taking sides. Our goal is to identify these topics, and point colleges students and other readers in the direction of those who have helped to define the issue. Historical influencers and books have, like our list of controversial topics, been drawn directly from our Ranking Analytics. More current influencers have been drawn from a vetted selection of findings using our Academic Influence engine.

You will agree with some of the figures on each list. You will disagree with some of them. You may even be offended by the inclusion of some influencer in our discussion . But inclusion is not endorsement. It is merely acknowledgment of influence, for better or worse.

Our goal is to reach beyond the traditional point-counterpoint approach to controversial essay topics. Subjects usually generate controversy because they are complex, and because a wide spectrum of parties may be impacted in very different ways by these issues. This is why we do our best to provide a panoramic view of each controversy (as opposed to an approach which merely pits one side in competition with the other). The result, we hope, is the kind of nuanced discussion required to take on subjects of such complexity.

Therefore, we’ll lay out the subject matter, point you to the experts and thought leaders, and let you do the intellectual footwork. Like we said, learning is all about inquiry. Question everything, and don’t be afraid to lean into a little controversy.

Find additional study resources with a look at our study guides for students at every stage of the educational journey.

Or get valuable study tips, advice on adjusting to campus life, and much more at our student resource homepage .

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140+ Controversial Research Topics for Students to Consider

What is a controversial research.

Writing a controversial research paper aims to stir discussion and research revolving around any controversial topic. After choosing something that makes people think and even question some ideas to be explored to the opposite opinions to collect enough proof. Let’s Start Controversial Research Topics Journey.

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How to Write a Controversial Research Paper?

• Know your readers: Imagine your type of readers from different viewpoints of your argument. Here, it would help if you considered the people who can disagree with you and those who agree with you. You need to take their concerns into consideration. Thus, you will develop a good ability for a wide range of readers.
• Demonstrate your care for your readers: You can show your care for your readers in various ways. The best way is to bring up their concerns and address them in the right way through your writing. For example, you are convincing corporates on any particular issue and then always focus their profit in mind.
• Avoid factual errors: Writing points can quickly make your readers lose faith in you or your argument.
• Always avoid plagiarism: plagiarism is the biggest enemy of any assignment writing paper. You can only get an idea from any source and never copy-paste from any source. Your paper will be rejected if even a trace of plagiarism is found.
• Polish your Controversial Research paper: Always try to avoid any spelling, punctuation, or sentence construction errors in your  Controversial Research  assignment paper since it might weaken your argument and create a bad impression on your readers.
• Write a hooking introduction: This set of sentences should be sort but interesting enough to keep your readers stuck to your whole  Controversial Research Paper.
• Write important contexts: Give all the necessary contexts in  your Controversial Research Papers.  This might include debates on current issues, historical events, etc. People will become more familiar with your issue if you give the context. This will also help you define the issue’s significance with your argument.
• Stating your thesis: This thesis part is your own claim or argument. It is not only a fact or statement but very much arguable based on the evidence you gave.
• Present your argument logically: While you are presenting your argument, you always need to ensure that each of your claims supports your overall thesis. In your introductory part, you need to include a summary of your given argument as well as an overview of the organization. This will always help your readers know what you want to state and gain their trust. Start the paper body by including the sub-claims in the different sections of your paragraph.
• Support each point with valid evidence: Do not write any vague points. Include data from the respected scientific studies of the discussed topic. For example, if you are using any scientific data, always ensure it is collected from a valid, relevant, peer-reviewed source. It must also have a statistically significant size, sample and a literature review. You can also include specific examples to make a point in your essay.
• Take care with the statistics: Statistics are quite useful to establish the importance of any topic. It also affects various groups of people. Sometimes, it can also be misleading. Thus, it is always very important for you to acquire statistics from a reliable source. Here, you need to address the context, with size, sample, etc., to determine whether the statistics are helpful. Here, it would help if you also remembered that any statistical correlation is not equal to causation.
• Present your argument logically: You must ensure each of your claims supports your overall thesis. In the introductory part, you need to introduce a summary of your own argument, which will help your reader understand your viewpoints and argument. In this way, you can gain their trust. You need to write the paper body with subclaims as various sections of the Paras. Here, you also need to back up each of the claims with concrete evidence. For example, if you use scientific data, ensure it comes from a relevant source. These also need a statistically significant sample size with a perfect literature review.
• Use the best sources: Always use credible sources in your writing. While you are convincing your audiences, you need to use the most credible sources.
• Cite the sources: you need to choose the best citation style. You need to follow this form throughout your paper. Here, you also need to include in-text citations while paraphrasing your sentences. Also, take care to avoid plagiarism.
• Support your argument: In order to support your argument, you always need to analyze your evidence. This will need you to break down your own evidence into various components. You are clearly explaining each argument’s real purpose to your audience.

Also Read:  The Most Relevant Controversial Topics For Essay And Debate

How do you choose topics for a controversial research paper, controversial research topics guide.

• Please choose a topic that is really interesting to you since you will be enjoying it more.
• Always ensure that your topic is not very broad and over-informed
• Ensure that your chosen topic is also not so narrow that it is difficult to find adequate information on it
• Limit your topic to a specific period ex, 2, 5 or 10 years
• Always limit the topic to any specific geographical area if required ex: USA, California or Kentucky
• Consider how much information is needed for your chosen topic.
• Start your research work for the elimination of anxiety or stress.

Interesting Blog for You:  100+ Interesting Debate Topics & Ideas for Students

List of the best controversial research paper topics, controversial research topics for school and college students.

• Safety Uninsured patients
• Responsibilities of a nurse towards patient’s behaviour
• Video games and their violence
• Controversies surrounding Covid-19
• Personal medical data vs its disclosure
• How to deal with physical disabilities
• Origin of religious conflicts
• Female vs male parenting
• Ethical aspects of the beauty salons
• Health factors in a vegan diet

Controversial Research Topics for University Students

• Affirmative Action
• Artificial intelligence researches
• Alternative medicine
• America’s global influence
• Research on stem cell
• Human-computer Interface researches and Future
• Affordable Care Act
• Atheism and its significance in society
• Bilingual education
• Human clone research ethical or not

Controversial Topics for Research Scholars

• Banning plastic bags
• Making uniforms mandatory in schools, right or not
• Internet privacy and ethical hacking
• Is having exotic pets an Ecological Threat or Personal Passion
• Is investment in space exploration worthwhile?
• Analyzing celebrity culture and media influence
• Is animal protection a human responsibility?
• Is sex education necessary at the school level?
• Gender equality in the society
• Are artificial sweeteners really good for health?

Amazing Controversial Research Topics

• Is surrogacy ethical?
• NATO’s role in Yugoslavia’s conflict
• Benefits of eating meat
• Can genetics cause alcoholism?
• Psychological effects of hate crimes
• Should bullfighting be banned everywhere
• Advancement in genetic research
• De-addiction camps benefits
• Is spiritual healing useful?
• Ways to meditate

Captivating Controversial Research Ideas

• Is it helpful to have a huge interest in psychology?
• Healthcare among tee agers
• Is the regulation of social media necessary?
• Good vs evil, do genes act?
• Future of Physiognomy
• Are video games making our kids violent?
• Pros and cons of adult education
• Are anti-abortion laws really helpful to society?
• Will machines rule us in the Future?
• Is capital punishment ethical?

Impressive Controversial Research Questions

• Expression of slavery on television
• Medical tourism and its issues
• Downbeat effects of nightclubs
• Abortion laws in Poland
• Abortion laws in the USA
• Global warming reasons
• Issues associated with vaccination
• Laws related to weapons
• Sanctions on certain Middle Eastern countries
• Limited nature of Roman Catholicism

Trending Controversial Research Topics

• How history repeats itself
• Can student assessment be made optional?
• How vitamins help our body from food supplements
• Is free internet access really helpful for students?
• Do horror movies really destroy mental well-being?
• Is imposing uniforms a violation of human rights
• Practical studies should be paid more attention in colleges
• Global climate change consequences
• Marijuana is a legal drug.
• Adult education drive and its importance in society

Classic Controversial Topics for Research

• Is calling out culture good for society
• Is CBD good for pets?
• How safe is cell phone radiation
• Can cheerleading be regarded as a sport
• Should churches be taxed
• Is a college education worth it?
• Are Concealed Handguns legal
• Is corporal punishment needed
• Is Daylight Saving Time necessary
• Importance of various space programs

Interesting Controversial Research Topics

• Can kids be allowed to vote?
• Does school uniform lead to equality?
• Is Freedom of Speech justified?
• Do not mix church and politics.
• Pros and cons of military services
• Fear of plagiarism
• Can religious education be made compulsory
• Black Lives Matter movement controversies
• Censorship in North Korea
• Stigma on Metal Music

Captivating Controversial Topics for Research

• Can abortions be legalized
• Is advanced education needed for everyone
• Is polygamy an inevitable thing even today
• Terrorism is a big global threat.
• Lesbians and homosexuals vs society
• Plastic surgery to be made readily available for everyone
• Everyone deserves forgiveness
• Soft drinks should not be sold to kids
• Fast food chains need to be government-controlled
• Marijuana and heroin to be made legal

Outstanding Controversial Research Ideas

• Dilemma on Cannabis Legalization.
• Why Should College Tuition be lowered?
• Basic work ethic research
• Should college tuition be made free
• Capitalism should be checked
• Rise of the machines in the modern society
• Gay Couples Rights for Adoption
• Why Businesses need to Embrace Ethics
• How to control the rising population
• Necessity of green revolution

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Excellent Controversial Research Topics

• Athletes to be allowed to take performance-enhancing meds
• Media promote terrorism.
• Minimum wages to be increased.
• Society is full of cults.
• Eating disorders are curable
• How to end capitalism
• How to promote public sector entities
• freedom of speech cannot be guaranteed
• All countries have the right to defend their national security.
• Today is the era of globalization.

Simple Controversial Topics for Research

• Is technology really improving our quality of life
• Is artificial intelligence (AI) dangerous?
• Do drones in public places really ensure safety
• Has email improved our communication?
• Shall we invest in technology for colonizing other planets
• Is technology making us less productive
• Should all cars be made electric
• Can social media really make human relationships
• Can net neutrality be restored?
• How to overcome mobile addiction

Impressive Controversial Ideas for Research

• Using terrorism as a global political tool
• Domestic violence
• Gender inequality
• Banned sport practices
• Illegal smuggling of drugs and weapons overseas
• Global industrial pollution
• Poisonous gases from automobiles
• Illegal experiments exposure
• Benefits of sting operations
• Ban on animal entertainment

Wrapping Up

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220+ Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics for Students

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Top 70 Controversial Debate Topics For Critical Thinkers in 2023

Jane Ng • 05 Oct 2023 • 6 min read

Whether you love or hate them, controversial debate topics are an inescapable part of our lives. They challenge our beliefs and push us out of our comfort zones, forcing us to examine our assumptions and biases. With so many controversial issues, you needn’t go far if you’re looking for a compelling debate. This blog post will provide you with a list of controversial debate topics to inspire your next discussion.

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Table of Contents

What are controversial debate topics, good controversial debate topics, fun controversial debate topics.

• Controversial Debate Topics For Teens 

Social Controversial Debate Topics

• Controversial Debate Topics On Current Events 
• Key Takeaways 

Frequently Asked Questions

Controversial debate topics are subjects – that can spark strong opinions and disagreements among people with different beliefs and values. These topics can cover various subjects, such as social issues, politics, ethics, and culture, and may challenge traditional beliefs or established norms.

One thing that makes these topics controversial is that there is often no clear consensus or agreement among people, which can lead to debates and disagreements. Each person may have their own interpretation of the facts or values that influence their perspective. It’s difficult for all to reach a resolution or agreement.

Despite the potential for heated discussions, controversial debate topics can be a great way to explore different viewpoints, challenge assumptions, and promote critical thinking and open dialogue. 

However, it is crucial to distinguish controversial topics from controversial opinions – statements or actions that cause disagreement or conflict. 

• For example, climate change can be controversial, but a politician’s comment denying the existence of climate change can be controversial.
• Is social media harming society more than it helps?
• Is it appropriate to make marijuana legal for recreational use?
• Should college be provided for free?
• Should schools teach comprehensive sex education?
• Is it ethical to use animals for scientific research?
• Does human activity account for the majority of climate change?
• Should beauty pageants be stopped?
• Are credit cards doing more harm than good?
• Should diet pills be banned?
• Should human cloning be permitted?
• Should there be stricter laws on gun ownership or fewer restrictions?
• Is climate change a serious issue that requires urgent action, or is it overblown and exaggerated?
• Should individuals have the right to end their own lives in certain circumstances?
• Should certain types of speech or expression be censored or restricted?
• Is eating animal meat unethical?
• Should there be more or less strict regulations on immigration and refugee policies?
• Is job security the biggest motivation rather than money?
• Are zoos doing more harm than good?
• Are parents legally responsible for their children’s actions?
• Does peer pressure have a net positive or negative impact?

• Is it better to have a small group of close friends or a large group of acquaintances?
• Should you brush your teeth before or after breakfast?
• Should you put mayo or ketchup on the fries?
• Is it acceptable to dip fries in a milkshake?
• Should you brush your teeth before or after breakfast? 
• Is it better to use a bar of soap or liquid soap? 
• Is waking early or staying up late better?
• Should you make your bed every day?
• Should you wear a mask in public places?

Controversial Debate Topics For Teens 

• Should teenagers access birth control without parental consent?
• Should the voting age be lowered to 16?
• Should parents have access to their children’s social media accounts?
• Should cell phone use be allowed during school hours?
• Is homeschooling a better option than traditional schooling?
• Should the school day start later to allow for more sleep for students?
• Is studying should be voluntary?
• Should schools be allowed to discipline students for social media use outside of school?
• Should school hours be reduced?
• Should drivers be banned from using mobile phones while driving?
• Should the legal driving age be raised to 19 in some countries?
• Should students take classes on parenting?
• Should teenagers be allowed to work part-time jobs during the school year?
• Should social media platforms be held responsible for the spread of misinformation?
• Should schools make drug testing mandatory for students?
• Should cyberbullying be considered to be an offense?
• Should teens be allowed to have relationships with significant age differences?
• Should schools allow students to carry concealed weapons for self-defense?
• Should teens be allowed to get tattoos and piercings without parental consent?
• Is online learning as effective as in-person learning?

• Should hate speech be protected under freedom of speech laws?
• Should the government provide a guaranteed basic income for all citizens?
• Is affirmative action necessary to address systemic inequalities in society?
• Should Violence/Sex on TV be abolished?
• Should illegal immigrants be allowed to receive social welfare benefits?
• Is the pay discrepancy between men and women the result of discrimination?
• Should the government regulate the use of artificial intelligence?
• Should healthcare be a universal human right?
• Should the assault weapons ban be extended?
• Should billionaires be taxed at a higher rate than the average citizen?
• Is it necessary to legalize and regulate prostitution?
• Who is more important in the family, father or mother?
• Is GPA an outdated way of assessing a student’s knowledge?
• Is the war on drugs a failure?
• Should vaccinations be mandatory for all children?

Controversial Debate Topics On Current Events 

• Is the use of social media algorithms to spread misinformation a threat to democracy?
• Should COVID-19 vaccine mandates be implemented?
• Is the use of artificial intelligence ethical in the workplace?
• Should AI be used instead of humans?
• Should companies be required to provide advance notice of lay-offs to employees?
• Is it ethical for companies to lay off employees while CEOs and other executives receive large bonuses?

Key Takeaways

Hopefully, with 70 controversial debate topics, you can expand your knowledge and gain new perspectives. 

However, it is essential to approach these topics with respect, an open mind, and a willingness to listen and learn from others. Engaging in respectful and meaningful debates on controversial topics with AhaSlides’ template library and interactive features can help us broaden our understanding of the world and each other, and possibly even lead to progress in finding solutions to some of the most pressing issues of our time.

1/ What are good topics to debate about? 

Good topics to debate can vary widely depending on the interests and perspectives of the individuals involved. Here are some examples of good debate topics:

2/ What are some controversial debates? 

Controversial debates are those that involve topics that can generate strong and opposing viewpoints and opinions. These topics are often contentious and can provoke heated arguments and debates among individuals or groups who hold different beliefs and values. 

Here are some examples:

3/ What is an emotional and controversial topic? 

An emotional and controversial topic can provoke strong emotional reactions and divides people based on their personal experiences, values, and beliefs. 

For example:

Do you still want to be more explicit about an excellent debater portrait? Here, we’ll give a practical and convincing example of a good debater for you to learn and hone your debate skills.

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Controversial topics - Introduction

Researching controversial topics, what makes a topic controversial.

Something that is controversial is an object of debate. There are viewpoints that are in conflict. The word "controversial" is formed from the root words  contra  and  versus, which gives you a sense of the conflicting perspectives. 

Where do you start?

Background research: learning about the topic and the main elements

• What are the main points of the issue?
• What do people agree on?
• What is it that people disagree about?

Tip: try a database in the page "Find Information For / Against"

"A THOUGHT FOR TODAY from A.Word.A.Day" by Wordsmith.org

is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

What do you do with the information you find?

Consider what statements are Facts and which are Opinions

• Facts are verifiable
• Opinions are ways of interpreting the evidence

Example : the number of students enrolled at a university is a fact. Whether the number means the university is popular is an opinion.

Does your assignment ask you to draw a conclusion, present your own opinion, or just gather the points of the debate?

The purpose of your assignment will influence how you put together your project (written or otherwise)

Tip:  for writing help, try the link in the left navigation menu titled "Research & writing help"

If you need to choose a topic

Sometimes topics are assigned by the instructor. If not, and you need to choose one yourself, consider picking something that interests you but about which you're not an expert. This way you'll have motivation to investigate the topic and enough unknowns to help keep the search interesting.

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Engaging in controversial topics in teaching and research

Sensitive subjects such as trolling and sexual assault require a careful approach at all points – from examining your motivation before you begin and setting up support to sharing findings, writes Ekant Veer

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Academics have a special and fundamental role as the “critics and conscience” of society, which in Aotearoa New Zealand is protected by the Education Act. Academics have the right to explore controversial topics freely; however, this right comes with responsibilities. Engaging in controversy, even under the protections of academic freedom, means we should be careful in our attitude and approach to examining and sharing our expertise in topics that might raise an eyebrow.

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While I haven’t purposefully looked for controversy, I have been known to engage in difficult conversations and address topics that others might not feel comfortable discussing. I’m drawn to the areas of marketing that we need to talk about but often don’t. This includes researching, teaching and supervising students engaging with issues such as mental well-being, race, sexual assault, trolling, online hate groups and other difficult topics.

Where to begin when dealing with sensitive topics

If you’re thinking of researching, supervising or teaching controversial topics, start with your institution’s policies on sensitive research. Let the norms of your institution guide you and, if in doubt, ask for support.

Consider, too, the following points before engaging in a topic that might be considered controversial, especially if you are supervising research students or mentoring early career researchers.

• Why do you want to work in this area? A sordid fascination with the macabre may be enough motivation for you, but is it the right motivation? Do you have the skills, knowledge, experience, access and insight to do justice to the topic? If you’re unsure, seek guidance from someone with known academic experience and expertise in the field you’re entering.
• How will this affect your own reputation in the field? For better or worse, there will be people who treat you differently if you start working on controversial topics. Early in my career I was naive about how others’ perceptions of my work would affect their perceptions of me personally. I still receive hate mail from people who have been offended by my actions – I stand by the rigour and rationale of what I’ve done, but the work is not without consequence.
• What support do you have before getting involved? And what support networks will you have in place while doing the work? Even the most resilient person will need help. If you are supervising a student carrying out research in a controversial area, support the person as much as you support the research. Check in on your team and make sure they check in on you. Seek support early and often. It is almost impossible to separate yourself from your work. When it comes to teaching these topics, be ready to provide health and well-being support, especially if there are triggers in your work.

Sharing controversial research and its findings

How will you disseminate this work in a respectful and meaningful manner? Be aware that some research outlets might be wary of publishing controversial topics. There is no way to know what will happen until you start trying to get your findings out.

How to engage with controversial topics in research and teaching

If, after critically considering the above points, you still want to engage with unconventional or controversial topics, keep in mind the following points. This list is not exhaustive but it is one I return to year after year.

• How do I show respect for this topic? If you do not feel you can authentically engage with a topic and share it with the world in a respectful way, my advice is to turn back now. This is particularly true when engaging with people who might face stigma or intersectional prejudice. They do not need you and your work adding to their challenges.
• Stay reflexive in your supervision and teaching of this topic. Keep thinking about how this topic affects you and others. And be mindful of the impact you have. Honour the topic but also those around you. I get excited about my work and sometimes will passionately talk about topics that others are not ready or willing to engage with. You don’t need to shy away from the work you’re doing, but remember that we are all on different journeys and we need to ensure everyone is comfortable taking that journey with you. I remember one year I was presenting research findings on furry culture and one of my research students walked out. He said he “just wasn’t prepared for this discussion today”. That has stuck with me, and I reflect on ensuring I don’t flippantly take for granted how a conversation affects others.
• Do no harm. It’s a phrase bandied around all too often but it’s important, and this includes doing no harm to yourself. I have extracted myself from difficult situations when I realised I couldn’t personally cope. I have wasted time, money and energy on topics that have not landed because I was not strong enough to continue that work. Do not force your students to carry out work they cannot cope with. Do not harm your participants by probing beyond what they’re ready to do.
• Avoid unethical research practices. This should go without saying, but ensure there is rigour and transparency in your approach to these topics. One person’s unethical approach can further stigmatise the field of enquiry and make it difficult for future studies in this area.

Why radical research has value

Without controversy we all play in the mainstream. There’s nothing wrong with that, but we need the radicals to explore all aspects of our world, not just the mainstream ones. Exploring all our society has on offer means embedding ourselves in the spaces and places that some don’t feel comfortable exploring. An academic lens not only allows us to take a rigorous approach to enquiry, but carries a level of respect that can help destigmatise these “controversial topics”. It’s not for everyone, but those who want to play on the margins should do so in a mindful manner, fully aware of both the rewards and costs involved.

Ekant Veer is professor of marketing in the department of management, marketing and tourism and associate dean of postgraduate research at  Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury , New Zealand.

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61 intriguing psychology research topics to explore

Last updated

11 January 2024

Reviewed by

Brittany Ferri, PhD, OTR/L

Psychology is an incredibly diverse, critical, and ever-changing area of study in the medical and health industries. Because of this, it’s a common area of study for students and healthcare professionals.

We’re walking you through picking the perfect topic for your upcoming paper or study. Keep reading for plenty of example topics to pique your interest and curiosity.

• How to choose a psychology research topic

Exploring a psychology-based topic for your research project? You need to pick a specific area of interest to collect compelling data. 

Use these tips to help you narrow down which psychology topics to research:

Focus on a particular area of psychology

The most effective psychological research focuses on a smaller, niche concept or disorder within the scope of a study. 

Psychology is a broad and fascinating area of science, including everything from diagnosed mental health disorders to sports performance mindset assessments. 

This gives you plenty of different avenues to explore. Having a hard time choosing? Check out our list of 61 ideas further down in this article to get started.

Read the latest clinical studies

Once you’ve picked a more niche topic to explore, you need to do your due diligence and explore other research projects on the same topic. 

This practice will help you learn more about your chosen topic, ask more specific questions, and avoid covering existing projects. 

For the best results, we recommend creating a research folder of associated published papers to reference throughout your project. This makes it much easier to cite direct references and find inspiration down the line.

Find a topic you enjoy and ask questions

Once you’ve spent time researching and collecting references for your study, you finally get to explore. 

Whether this research project is for work, school, or just for fun, having a passion for your research will make the project much more enjoyable. (Trust us, there will be times when that is the only thing that keeps you going.) 

Now you’ve decided on the topic, ask more nuanced questions you might want to explore. 

If you can, pick the direction that interests you the most to make the research process much more enjoyable.

• 61 psychology topics to research in 2024

Need some extra help starting your psychology research project on the right foot? Explore our list of 61 cutting-edge, in-demand psychology research topics to use as a starting point for your research journey.

• Psychology research topics for university students

As a university student, it can be hard to pick a research topic that fits the scope of your classes and is still compelling and unique. 

Here are a few exciting topics we recommend exploring for your next assigned research project:

Mental health in post-secondary students

Seeking post-secondary education is a stressful and overwhelming experience for most students, making this topic a great choice to explore for your in-class research paper. 

Examples of post-secondary mental health research topics include:

Student mental health status during exam season

Mental health disorder prevalence based on study major

The impact of chronic school stress on overall quality of life

The impacts of cyberbullying

Cyberbullying can occur at all ages, starting as early as elementary school and carrying through into professional workplaces. 

Examples of cyberbullying-based research topics you can study include:

The impact of cyberbullying on self-esteem

Common reasons people engage in cyberbullying 

Cyberbullying themes and commonly used terms

Cyberbullying habits in children vs. adults

The long-term effects of cyberbullying

• Clinical psychology research topics

If you’re looking to take a more clinical approach to your next project, here are a few topics that involve direct patient assessment for you to consider:

Chronic pain and mental health

Living with chronic pain dramatically impacts every aspect of a person’s life, including their mental and emotional health. 

Here are a few examples of in-demand pain-related psychology research topics:

The connection between diabetic neuropathy and depression

Neurological pain and its connection to mental health disorders

Efficacy of meditation and mindfulness for pain management

The long-term effects of insomnia

Insomnia is where you have difficulty falling or staying asleep. It’s a common health concern that impacts millions of people worldwide. 

This is an excellent topic because insomnia can have a variety of causes, offering many research possibilities. 

Here are a few compelling psychology research topics about insomnia you could investigate:

The prevalence of insomnia based on age, gender, and ethnicity

Insomnia and its impact on workplace productivity

The connection between insomnia and mental health disorders

Efficacy and use of melatonin supplements for insomnia

The risks and benefits of prescription insomnia medications

Lifestyle options for managing insomnia symptoms

The efficacy of mental health treatment options

Management and treatment of mental health conditions is an ever-changing area of study. If you can witness or participate in mental health therapies, this can make a great research project. 

Examples of mental health treatment-related psychology research topics include:

The efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for patients with severe anxiety

The benefits and drawbacks of group vs. individual therapy sessions

Music therapy for mental health disorders

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for patients with depression 

• Controversial psychology research paper topics

If you are looking to explore a more cutting-edge or modern psychology topic, you can delve into a variety of controversial and topical options:

The impact of social media and digital platforms

Ever since access to internet forums and video games became more commonplace, there’s been growing concern about the impact these digital platforms have on mental health. 

Examples of social media and video game-related psychology research topics include:

The effect of edited images on self-confidence

How social media platforms impact social behavior

Video games and their impact on teenage anger and violence

Digital communication and the rapid spread of misinformation

The development of digital friendships

Psychotropic medications for mental health

In recent years, the interest in using psychoactive medications to treat and manage health conditions has increased despite their inherently controversial nature. 

Examples of psychotropic medication-related research topics include:

The risks and benefits of using psilocybin mushrooms for managing anxiety

The impact of marijuana on early-onset psychosis

Childhood marijuana use and related prevalence of mental health conditions

Ketamine and its use for complex PTSD (C-PTSD) symptom management

The effect of long-term psychedelic use and mental health conditions

• Mental health disorder research topics

As one of the most popular subsections of psychology, studying mental health disorders and how they impact quality of life is an essential and impactful area of research. 

While studies in these areas are common, there’s always room for additional exploration, including the following hot-button topics:

Anxiety and depression disorders

Anxiety and depression are well-known and heavily researched mental health disorders. 

Despite this, we still don’t know many things about these conditions, making them great candidates for psychology research projects:

Social anxiety and its connection to chronic loneliness

C-PTSD symptoms and causes

The development of phobias

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) behaviors and symptoms

Depression triggers and causes

Self-care tools and resources for depression

The prevalence of anxiety and depression in particular age groups or geographic areas

Bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder is a complex and multi-faceted area of psychology research. 

Use your research skills to learn more about this condition and its impact by choosing any of the following topics:

Early signs of bipolar disorder

The incidence of bipolar disorder in young adults

The efficacy of existing bipolar treatment options

Bipolar medication side effects

Cognitive behavioral therapy for people with bipolar 

Schizoaffective disorder

Schizoaffective disorder is often stigmatized, and less common mental health disorders are a hotbed for new and exciting research. 

Here are a few examples of interesting research topics related to this mental health disorder:

The prevalence of schizoaffective disorder by certain age groups or geographic locations

Risk factors for developing schizoaffective disorder

The prevalence and content of auditory and visual hallucinations

Alternative therapies for schizoaffective disorder

• Societal and systematic psychology research topics

Modern society’s impact is deeply enmeshed in our mental and emotional health on a personal and community level. 

Here are a few examples of societal and systemic psychology research topics to explore in more detail:

Access to mental health services

While mental health awareness has risen over the past few decades, access to quality mental health treatment and resources is still not equitable. 

This can significantly impact the severity of a person’s mental health symptoms, which can result in worse health outcomes if left untreated. 

Explore this crucial issue and provide information about the need for improved mental health resource access by studying any of the following topics:

Rural vs. urban access to mental health resources

Access to crisis lines by location

Wait times for emergency mental health services

Inequities in mental health access based on income and location

Insurance coverage for mental health services

Systemic racism and mental health

Societal systems and the prevalence of systemic racism heavily impact every aspect of a person’s overall health.

Researching these topics draws attention to existing problems and contributes valuable insights into ways to improve access to care moving forward.

Examples of systemic racism-related psychology research topics include: 

Access to mental health resources based on race

The prevalence of BIPOC mental health therapists in a chosen area

The impact of systemic racism on mental health and self-worth

Racism training for mental health workers

The prevalence of mental health disorders in discriminated groups

LGBTQIA+ mental health concerns

Research about LGBTQIA+ people and their mental health needs is a unique area of study to explore for your next research project. It’s a commonly overlooked and underserved community.

Examples of LGBTQIA+ psychology research topics to consider include:

Mental health supports for queer teens and children

The impact of queer safe spaces on mental health

The prevalence of mental health disorders in the LGBTQIA+ community

The benefits of queer mentorship and found family

Substance misuse in LQBTQIA+ youth and adults

• Collect data and identify trends with Dovetail

Psychology research is an exciting and competitive study area, making it the perfect choice for projects or papers.

Take the headache out of analyzing your data and instantly access the insights you need to complete your next psychology research project by teaming up with Dovetail today.

Get started today

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15 Controversial Science Topics

Science is a subject as broad as it is deep, meaning you’ll never need to worry about running out of material to study or resources to help you out ! Pick any topic, and you’ll find enough experts, studies, and articles to fill a course load for an entire school, let alone 1 student.

But unlike some subjects like math or language arts, science often steps into territories that some people might find, shall we say, a little taboo. While these topics can spark some passionate discourse in classrooms, they might also make some students, parents, and teachers uncomfortable depending on how it’s broached, how it applies to the curriculum, and their own personal beliefs.

At Twine, we believe that teachers, parents, and students should work together to decide if a controversial science topic is worth tackling in the classroom. To give you an idea of what may be discussed in an average science class, we’ve compiled this list of controversial topics that you can go over with your child, parent, or teacher so you all can decide what may be appropriate to study together.

Even if none of these topics are discussed in the classroom, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t let your curiosity guide you to new discoveries! Please feel free to use this list (and our list of really hard science questions ) to inspire your next project, thesis, or debate—just always remember to check with the right groups to make sure it’s appropriate for the class.

Let’s dive in!

Are We Alone in the Universe?

If you start any science class with this question, you’re bound to start an exciting conversation. 

While the idea of alien life isn’t as controversial as it was for previous generations, the suggestion of alien evidence on Earth has been the focus of endless articles, studies, and documentaries since the infamous Roswell Incident of 1947.

The topic has even seen new life in recent years thanks to declassified footage provided by the U.S. government thanks to organizations like To The Stars… Academy of Art & Science campaigning for their release. While the government maintains that these videos don’t suggest the existence of aliens on our planet, it’s hard not to imagine what these videos could be showing us.

So, what do you think? Do you want to believe?

Space Colonization

UFOs aren’t the only thing keeping our eyes on the sky.

Ever since the moon landing, scientists have pondered the possibility of humans inhabiting the stars. And thanks to mega-rich entrepreneurs like Elon Musk ( SpaceX ) and Jeff Bezos ( Blue Origin ), a new kind of space race has ignited in the form of space colonization.

However, there’s much more to exploring the final frontier than boldly going where no man has gone before. Critics of space colonization often cite that life for these cosmic pioneers would be downright miserable even if we had the technology and training, while others want our governments and industries to fix the current issues on Earth before we start blasting off into the great unknown.

Climate Change: Is It Something to Worry About?

Speaking about the problems here on Earth, it’s time to talk about one of the modern age’s most urgent and controversial science topics: climate change.

While there is plenty of evidence pointing toward the effect human activity has on our planet, this topic has been heavily debated thanks to politicians, celebrities, and corporations all vying to gain public support. 

As a result, talking about climate change can be a pretty sticky topic to cover in the classroom because of the range of opinions it produces.

Renewable & Alternative Energy

Jumping off of climate change, let’s look at a topic intrinsically tied to protecting and preserving our environment: using renewable and alternative energy .

There’s no question that natural gas and oil are the lifeblood of the modern world. We need it to power our homes, fuel our cars, and keep our industries afloat. However, our planet only has so much fossil fuel, and the effect of using these fuels is believed to be significantly impacting our environment over time.

As a result, scientists have started searching for other sources of energy. Some of the most common examples include solar and wind energy , but many critics believe these sources won’t be enough to produce the power we need efficiently and effectively.

Even nuclear energy , which can produce a significant amount of power with low carbon emissions, often conjures up the memories of the Chernobyl and Fukushima catastrophes. These events have left both of these areas too dangerous to travel to or live in, even to this day.

The Effect of Artificial Intelligence

When people think about the threat artificial intelligence may have on humans, many imagine the apocalyptic futures featured in popular movies like Terminator 2: Judgment Day or The Matrix. 

The truth is far more subtle than that.

A.I. has advanced considerably even in the last few years, and there is no doubt it has made our lives far more convenient and efficient. Still, these benefits are often plagued by concerns about our data privacy and a loss of jobs due to automation . 

Should we allow A.I.’s to read our search history so companies like Amazon can fully personalize our drone-powered delivery service for convenience, or will this technology eventually leave us vulnerable and jobless?

Social Media, Smart Phones, & Staying Connected

Speaking of technology, imagine the mood in the classroom if the teacher demanded every student to turn in their smartphones at the beginning of class?

While there is no doubt that internet access is undoubtedly a valuable thing for every human being, questions are being raised about how we access this information and whether or not this information should be monitored, curated, or fact-checked .

On top of this, researchers are finding more and more people struggling to stay focused thanks to the number of features and apps a smart device can hold, while others have noted declining rates of mental health in young people who are constantly in touch with their smart device.

Treating Mental Health Problems as Medical Concerns

Much of the controversy that affects mental health and psychiatry comes down to debates on whether or not mental illnesses (like addiction, bipolarism, and depression) are legitimate health concerns that can be properly diagnosed and treated .

Mental health researchers and advocates have made some serious leaps in the past few decades to bring these illnesses to light, but there is still much work to be done to get the support they need from the medical community.

Alternative Medicines & Their Efficacy

The alternative medicine industry is growing , but researchers are still debating whether or not these complementary and holistic treatments are serving the public’s health .

Traditional medical practitioners criticize alternative medicines because of the lack of research put into their legitimacy. However, many alternative medicine supporters claim these treatments provide the relief people need without having to pay for expensive therapies or take part in a health system that might have the best interest of their patients in mind.

The Effect of Health Fads

Leaping off of alternative medicine is the growing rate of health and wellness fads popping up worldwide. Similar to alternative medicine, the health and wellness industry is exploding thanks to the power of social media personalities and celebrities raving about their proclaimed benefits.

Researchers of these trends have found wellness fads affect people in various ways , and it all depends on personal health. It’s not that these trends don’t work; it’s just essential for people to realize that they may only work for certain types of people. Before following the latest tea-tox trend, speak to a physician.

The Legitimacy of Vaccinations

Speaking of health, one of the most controversial subjects in the medical industry is vaccines and whether or not people should be forced to take them.

While vaccines have been a controversial topic for a number of years , debates exploded worldwide about their legitimacy in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic that started in 2020 and the rise of misinformation spreading on social media . 

Vaccine critics are skeptical about their effect on the human body. At the same time, supporters often point to historical examples of humans eradicating certain diseases with the help of vaccines.

GMO vs. Organic Foods

Scientists have long debated whether we should be using genetically modified organisms (GMOs) to help us produce the food we consume or if organic farming is a safer, natural way to feed our populations.

On the one hand, specific GMOs can help farmers produce crops more efficiently, but there are many questions about their use and safety. Who will decide which GMOs are safe for people to consume? Will we know if our food contains GMOs? What are the long-term effects of eating GMOs?

On the other hand, if we choose to pursue organic farming, how will we know if our food is safe if it’s not protected from pests or regulated by observatory parties? Is organic food healthier than GMO food? Should we be paying a premium on organic foods if they claim to be healthier?

Is Animal Testing Ethical?

The ethics of animal testing is a hotly debated subject in the science community, but it has led to some of the most innovative changes in our world. Without animal testing, we wouldn’t have the medicine we need to treat many health issues , like:

• Parkinson’s disease
• Alzheimer’s disease

Unfortunately, the uncomfortable truth is that this testing inflicts on the rights of animals and can sometimes lead to harm or even death. On the other hand, removing animal testing completely can make it much harder to find treatments that could save millions of human lives.

The Theory of Evolution

The theory of evolution is one of the biggest controversies to cover in science class, mostly because it directly conflicts with long-held religious beliefs that many people still share today.

However, religion isn’t the only thorn in evolution’s side. Some evolution critics believe that evolution can’t explain how certain complex biologies came to be (like the human eye, for example), though, over time, research has supported the idea that evolution is a more complicated process than we once thought.

Should We Be Genetically Engineering Humans?

If we could change the very fabric of our DNA, should we still do it?

This is a heavily controversial subject in the science community since the effect that genetic engineering could have on the human species can be enormous. 

Supporters of genetic engineering believe that we can perfect our species over a few short generations, allowing us to live longer, healthier, more productive lives. At the same time, opponents are concerned with who will get to decide which traits are perfected and who will get to enjoy the benefits.

Cloning is another topic involving genetic engineering, but it remains controversial because of the low survival rates for clones.

Stem Cell Therapy

Researchers have found that stem cell therapy can help treat numerous health problems and diseases, like cancer, leukemia, lymphoma, and heart failure, but critics of it are concerned that its cost may be too high of a price to pay.

The main concern is about the ethics of human embryonic stem cell therapy. These stem cells are taken from a human embryo, but it destroys the embryo as a result. A much less controversial alternative would be using stem cells from adults, but these cells might not be as useful for scientists as embryonic stem cells.

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About half of americans say public k-12 education is going in the wrong direction.

About half of U.S. adults (51%) say the country’s public K-12 education system is generally going in the wrong direction. A far smaller share (16%) say it’s going in the right direction, and about a third (32%) are not sure, according to a Pew Research Center survey conducted in November 2023.

Pew Research Center conducted this analysis to understand how Americans view the K-12 public education system. We surveyed 5,029 U.S. adults from Nov. 9 to Nov. 16, 2023.

The survey was conducted by Ipsos for Pew Research Center on the Ipsos KnowledgePanel Omnibus. The KnowledgePanel is a probability-based web panel recruited primarily through national, random sampling of residential addresses. The survey is weighted by gender, age, race, ethnicity, education, income and other categories.

Here are the questions used for this analysis , along with responses, and the survey methodology .

A majority of those who say it’s headed in the wrong direction say a major reason is that schools are not spending enough time on core academic subjects.

These findings come amid debates about what is taught in schools , as well as concerns about school budget cuts and students falling behind academically.

Related: Race and LGBTQ Issues in K-12 Schools

Republicans are more likely than Democrats to say the public K-12 education system is going in the wrong direction. About two-thirds of Republicans and Republican-leaning independents (65%) say this, compared with 40% of Democrats and Democratic leaners. In turn, 23% of Democrats and 10% of Republicans say it’s headed in the right direction.

Among Republicans, conservatives are the most likely to say public education is headed in the wrong direction: 75% say this, compared with 52% of moderate or liberal Republicans. There are no significant differences among Democrats by ideology.

Similar shares of K-12 parents and adults who don’t have a child in K-12 schools say the system is going in the wrong direction.

A separate Center survey of public K-12 teachers found that 82% think the overall state of public K-12 education has gotten worse in the past five years. And many teachers are pessimistic about the future.

Related: What’s It Like To Be A Teacher in America Today?

Why do Americans think public K-12 education is going in the wrong direction?

We asked adults who say the public education system is going in the wrong direction why that might be. About half or more say the following are major reasons:

• Schools not spending enough time on core academic subjects, like reading, math, science and social studies (69%)
• Teachers bringing their personal political and social views into the classroom (54%)
• Schools not having the funding and resources they need (52%)

About a quarter (26%) say a major reason is that parents have too much influence in decisions about what schools are teaching.

How views vary by party

Americans in each party point to different reasons why public education is headed in the wrong direction.

Republicans are more likely than Democrats to say major reasons are:

• A lack of focus on core academic subjects (79% vs. 55%)
• Teachers bringing their personal views into the classroom (76% vs. 23%)

In turn, Democrats are more likely than Republicans to point to:

• Insufficient school funding and resources (78% vs. 33%)
• Parents having too much say in what schools are teaching (46% vs. 13%)

Views also vary within each party by ideology.

Among Republicans, conservatives are particularly likely to cite a lack of focus on core academic subjects and teachers bringing their personal views into the classroom.

Among Democrats, liberals are especially likely to cite schools lacking resources and parents having too much say in the curriculum.

Note: Here are the questions used for this analysis , along with responses, and the survey methodology .

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About Pew Research Center Pew Research Center is a nonpartisan fact tank that informs the public about the issues, attitudes and trends shaping the world. It conducts public opinion polling, demographic research, media content analysis and other empirical social science research. Pew Research Center does not take policy positions. It is a subsidiary of The Pew Charitable Trusts .

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