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what are good topics for a persuasive speech

112 Persuasive Speech Topics That Are Actually Engaging

What’s covered:, how to pick an awesome persuasive speech topic, 112 engaging persuasive speech topics, tips for preparing your persuasive speech.

Writing a stellar persuasive speech requires a carefully crafted argument that will resonate with your audience to sway them to your side. This feat can be challenging to accomplish, but an engaging, thought-provoking speech topic is an excellent place to start.

When it comes time to select a topic for your persuasive speech, you may feel overwhelmed by all the options to choose from—or your brain may be drawing a completely blank slate. If you’re having trouble thinking of the perfect topic, don’t worry. We’re here to help!

In this post, we’re sharing how to choose the perfect persuasive speech topic and tips to prepare for your speech. Plus, you’ll find 112 persuasive speech topics that you can take directly from us or use as creative inspiration for your own ideas!

Choose Something You’re Passionate About

It’s much easier to write, research, and deliver a speech about a cause you care about. Even if it’s challenging to find a topic that completely sparks your interest, try to choose a topic that aligns with your passions.

However, keep in mind that not everyone has the same interests as you. Try to choose a general topic to grab the attention of the majority of your audience, but one that’s specific enough to keep them engaged.

For example, suppose you’re giving a persuasive speech about book censorship. In that case, it’s probably too niche to talk about why “To Kill a Mockingbird” shouldn’t be censored (even if it’s your favorite book), and it’s too broad to talk about media censorship in general.

Steer Clear of Cliches

Have you already heard a persuasive speech topic presented dozens of times? If so, it’s probably not an excellent choice for your speech—even if it’s an issue you’re incredibly passionate about.

Although polarizing topics like abortion and climate control are important to discuss, they aren’t great persuasive speech topics. Most people have already formed an opinion on these topics, which will either cause them to tune out or have a negative impression of your speech.

Instead, choose topics that are fresh, unique, and new. If your audience has never heard your idea presented before, they will be more open to your argument and engaged in your speech.

Have a Clear Side of Opposition

For a persuasive speech to be engaging, there must be a clear side of opposition. To help determine the arguability of your topic, ask yourself: “If I presented my viewpoint on this topic to a group of peers, would someone disagree with me?” If the answer is yes, then you’ve chosen a great topic!

Now that we’ve laid the groundwork for what it takes to choose a great persuasive speech topic, here are over one hundred options for you to choose from.

  • Should high school athletes get tested for steroids?
  • Should schools be required to have physical education courses?
  • Should sports grades in school depend on things like athletic ability?
  • What sport should be added to or removed from the Olympics?
  • Should college athletes be able to make money off of their merchandise?
  • Should sports teams be able to recruit young athletes without a college degree?
  • Should we consider video gamers as professional athletes?
  • Is cheerleading considered a sport?
  • Should parents allow their kids to play contact sports?
  • Should professional female athletes be paid the same as professional male athletes?
  • Should college be free at the undergraduate level?
  • Is the traditional college experience obsolete?
  • Should you choose a major based on your interests or your potential salary?
  • Should high school students have to meet a required number of service hours before graduating?
  • Should teachers earn more or less based on how their students perform on standardized tests?
  • Are private high schools more effective than public high schools?
  • Should there be a minimum number of attendance days required to graduate?
  • Are GPAs harmful or helpful?
  • Should schools be required to teach about standardized testing?
  • Should Greek Life be banned in the United States?
  • Should schools offer science classes explicitly about mental health?
  • Should students be able to bring their cell phones to school?
  • Should all public restrooms be all-gender?
  • Should undocumented immigrants have the same employment and education opportunities as citizens?
  • Should everyone be paid a living wage regardless of their employment status?
  • Should supremacist groups be able to hold public events?
  • Should guns be allowed in public places?
  • Should the national drinking age be lowered?
  • Should prisoners be allowed to vote?
  • Should the government raise or lower the retirement age?
  • Should the government be able to control the population?
  • Is the death penalty ethical?

Environment

  • Should stores charge customers for plastic bags?
  • Should breeding animals (dogs, cats, etc.) be illegal?
  • Is it okay to have exotic animals as pets?
  • Should people be fined for not recycling?
  • Should compost bins become mandatory for restaurants?
  • Should electric vehicles have their own transportation infrastructure?
  • Would heavier fining policies reduce corporations’ emissions?
  • Should hunting be encouraged or illegal?
  • Should reusable diapers replace disposable diapers?

Science & Technology

  • Is paper media more reliable than digital news sources?
  • Should automated/self-driving cars be legalized?
  • Should schools be required to provide laptops to all students?
  • Should software companies be able to have pre-downloaded programs and applications on devices?
  • Should drones be allowed in military warfare?
  • Should scientists invest more or less money into cancer research?
  • Should cloning be illegal?
  • Should societies colonize other planets?
  • Should there be legal oversight over the development of technology?

Social Media

  • Should there be an age limit on social media?
  • Should cyberbullying have the same repercussions as in-person bullying?
  • Are online relationships as valuable as in-person relationships?
  • Does “cancel culture” have a positive or negative impact on societies?
  • Are social media platforms reliable information or news sources?
  • Should social media be censored?
  • Does social media create an unrealistic standard of beauty?
  • Is regular social media usage damaging to real-life interactions?
  • Is social media distorting democracy?
  • How many branches of government should there be?
  • Who is the best/worst president of all time?
  • How long should judges serve in the U.S. Supreme Court?
  • Should a more significant portion of the U.S. budget be contributed towards education?
  • Should the government invest in rapid transcontinental transportation infrastructure?
  • Should airport screening be more or less stringent?
  • Should the electoral college be dismantled?
  • Should the U.S. have open borders?
  • Should the government spend more or less money on space exploration?
  • Should students sing Christmas carols, say the pledge of allegiance, or perform other tangentially religious activities?
  • Should nuns and priests become genderless roles?
  • Should schools and other public buildings have prayer rooms?
  • Should animal sacrifice be legal if it occurs in a religious context?
  • Should countries be allowed to impose a national religion on their citizens?
  • Should the church be separated from the state?
  • Does freedom of religion positively or negatively affect societies?

Parenting & Family

  • Is it better to have children at a younger or older age?
  • Is it better for children to go to daycare or stay home with their parents?
  • Does birth order affect personality?
  • Should parents or the school system teach their kids about sex?
  • Are family traditions important?
  • Should parents smoke or drink around young children?
  • Should “spanking” children be illegal?
  • Should parents use swear words in front of their children?
  • Should parents allow their children to play violent video games?

Entertainment

  • Should all actors be paid the same regardless of gender or ethnicity?
  • Should all award shows be based on popular vote?
  • Who should be responsible for paying taxes on prize money, the game show staff or the contestants?
  • Should movies and television shows have ethnicity and gender quotas?
  • Should newspapers and magazines move to a completely online format?
  • Should streaming services like Netflix and Hulu be free for students?
  • Is the movie rating system still effective?
  • Should celebrities have more privacy rights?

Arts & Humanities

  • Are libraries becoming obsolete?
  • Should all schools have mandatory art or music courses in their curriculum?
  • Should offensive language be censored from classic literary works?
  • Is it ethical for museums to keep indigenous artifacts?
  • Should digital designs be considered an art form? 
  • Should abstract art be considered an art form?
  • Is music therapy effective?
  • Should tattoos be regarded as “professional dress” for work?
  • Should schools place greater emphasis on the arts programs?
  • Should euthanasia be allowed in hospitals and other clinical settings?
  • Should the government support and implement universal healthcare?
  • Would obesity rates lower if the government intervened to make healthy foods more affordable?
  • Should teenagers be given access to birth control pills without parental consent?
  • Should food allergies be considered a disease?
  • Should health insurance cover homeopathic medicine?
  • Is using painkillers healthy?
  • Should genetically modified foods be banned?
  • Should there be a tax on unhealthy foods?
  • Should tobacco products be banned from the country?
  • Should the birth control pill be free for everyone?

If you need more help brainstorming topics, especially those that are personalized to your interests, you can  use CollegeVine’s free AI tutor, Ivy . Ivy can help you come up with original persuasive speech ideas, and she can also help with the rest of your homework, from math to languages.

Do Your Research

A great persuasive speech is supported with plenty of well-researched facts and evidence. So before you begin the writing process, research both sides of the topic you’re presenting in-depth to gain a well-rounded perspective of the topic.

Understand Your Audience

It’s critical to understand your audience to deliver a great persuasive speech. After all, you are trying to convince them that your viewpoint is correct. Before writing your speech, consider the facts and information that your audience may already know, and think about the beliefs and concerns they may have about your topic. Then, address these concerns in your speech, and be mindful to include fresh, new information.

Have Someone Read Your Speech

Once you have finished writing your speech, have someone read it to check for areas of strength and improvement. You can use CollegeVine’s free essay review tool to get feedback on your speech from a peer!

Practice Makes Perfect

After completing your final draft, the key to success is to practice. Present your speech out loud in front of a mirror, your family, friends, and basically, anyone who will listen. Not only will the feedback of others help you to make your speech better, but you’ll become more confident in your presentation skills and may even be able to commit your speech to memory.

Hopefully, these ideas have inspired you to write a powerful, unique persuasive speech. With the perfect topic, plenty of practice, and a boost of self-confidence, we know you’ll impress your audience with a remarkable speech!

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what are good topics for a persuasive speech

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150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics for Students in 2024

April 1, 2024

Do you know that moment in your favorite film, when the soundtrack begins to swell and the main character stands up and delivers a speech so rousing, so impassioned, it has the entire room either weeping or cheering by the time it concludes? What distinguishes the effectiveness of such a speech is not only the protagonist’s stellar delivery but also the compelling nature of the subject matter at hand. Choosing an effective persuasive speech topic is essential for guaranteeing that your future speech or essay is as moving as these . If this sounds like a tall order, have no fear. Below you’ll find a list of some of the best and most interesting persuasive speech topics for high school students to tackle, from the playful (“Pets for President”) to the serious (“Should We Stop AI from Replacing Human Workers?”).

And if you’re craving more inspiration, feel free to check out this list of Great Debate Topics , which can be used to generate further ideas.

What is a Good Persuasive Speech?

Before we get to the list, we must address the question on everyone’s minds: what is a persuasive speech, and what the heck makes for a good persuasive speech topic? A persuasive speech is a speech that aims to convince its listeners of a particular point of view . At the heart of each persuasive speech is a central conflict . Note: The persuasive speech stands in contrast to a simple informative speech, which is intended purely to convey information. (I.e., an informative speech topic might read: “The History of Making One’s Bed,” while a persuasive speech topic would be: “Why Making One’s Bed is a Waste of Time”—understand?)

And lest you think that persuasive speeches are simply assigned by your teachers as a particularly cruel form of torture, remember that practicing your oratory skills will benefit you in all areas of life—from job interviews, to business negotiations, to your future college career in public policy or international relations . Knowing how to use your voice to enact meaningful change is a valuable skill that can empower you to make a difference in the world.

Components of a Great Persuasive Speech Topic

The ideal persuasive speech topic will inspire the audience to action via both logical arguments and emotional appeals. As such, we can summarize the question “what makes a good persuasive speech topic?” by saying that the topic must possess the following qualities:

  • Timeliness and Relevance . Great persuasive speech topics grapple with a contemporary issue that is meaningful to the listener at hand. The topic might be a current news item, or it might be a long-standing social issue. In either case, the topic should be one with real-world implications.
  • Complexity . A fruitful persuasive speech topic will have many facets. Topics that are controversial, with some gray area, lend themselves to a high degree of critical thinking. They also offer the speaker an opportunity to consider and refute all counterarguments before making a compelling case for his or her own position.
  • Evidence . You want to be able to back up your argument with clear evidence from reputable sources (i.e., not your best friend or dog). The more evidence and data you can gather, the more sound your position will be. In addition, your audience will be more inclined to trust you.
  • Personal Connection. Do you feel passionately about the topic you’ve chosen? If not, it may be time to go back to the drawing board. This does not mean you have to support the side you choose; sometimes, arguing for the opposing side of what you personally believe can be an effective exercise in building empathy and perspective. Either way, though, the key is to select a topic that you care deeply about. Your passion will be infectious to the audience.

150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics

  • Should tech companies regulate the development of AI systems and automation to protect humans’ jobs?
  • Should we limit screen time for children?
  • Is it ethical for AI models like Dall-E to train themselves on artists’ work without the artists’ permission?
  • Should the government regulate the use of personal drones?
  • Is mass surveillance ethical? Does its threat to civil liberties outweigh its benefits?
  • Are virtual reality experiences a valuable educational tool?
  • Do the positive effects of powerful AI systems outweigh the risks?
  • Do voice assistants like Siri and Alexa invade individuals’ privacy?
  • Are cell phone bans in the classroom effective for improving student learning?
  • Does the use of facial recognition technology in public violate individuals’ privacy?
  • Should students be allowed to use ChatGPT and other AI tools for writing assignments?
  • Should AI-generated art be allowed in art shows or contests?
  • Who holds responsibility for accidents caused by self-driving cars: the driver or the car company?

Business and Economy

  • Should we do away with the minimum wage? Why or why not?
  • Is it ethical for companies to use unpaid internships as a source of labor?
  • Does the gig economy benefit or harm workers?
  • Is capitalism the best economic system?
  • Is it ethical for companies to use sweatshops in developing countries?
  • Should the government provide free healthcare for all citizens?
  • Should the government regulate prices on pharmaceutical drugs?
  • Should the government enact a universal base income?
  • Should customers be required to tip a minimum amount in order to ensure food service workers make a living wage?
  • Should someone’s tattoos or personal appearance factor into the hiring process?
  • Should US workers have more vacation time?
  • Is big game hunting beneficial for local communities?
  • Should we legalize euthanasia?
  • Is it ethical to use animals for medical research?
  • Is it ethical to allow access to experimental treatments for terminally ill patients?
  • Should we allow genetic engineering in humans?
  • Is the death penalty obsolete?
  • Should we allow the cloning of humans?
  • Is it ethical to allow performance-enhancing drugs in sports?
  • Should embryonic stem cell collection be allowed?
  • Do frozen IVF embryos have rights?
  • Should state and federal investigators be allowed to use DNA from genealogy databases?
  • Should the government limit how many children a couple can have?
  • Is spanking children an acceptable form of discipline?
  • Should we allow parents to choose their children’s physical attributes through genetic engineering?
  • Should we require parents to vaccinate their children?
  • Should we require companies to give mandatory paternal and maternal leave?
  • Should children be allowed to watch violent movies and video games?
  • Should parents allow their teenagers to drink before they turn 21?
  • Should the government provide childcare?
  • Should telling your children about Santa Claus be considered lying?
  • Should one parent stay home?
  • Should parental consent be required for minors to receive birth control?
  • Is it an invasion of privacy for parents to post photographs of their children on social media?

Social Media

  • Should social media platforms ban political ads?
  • Do the benefits of social media outweigh the downsides?
  • Should the government hold social media companies responsible for hate speech on their platforms?
  • Is social media making us more or less social?
  • Do platforms like TikTok exacerbate mental health issues in teens?
  • Should the government regulate social media to protect citizens’ privacy?
  • Is it right for parents to monitor their children’s social media accounts?
  • Should social media companies enact a minimum user age restriction?
  • Should we require social media companies to protect user data?
  • Should we hold social media companies responsible for cyberbullying?
  • Should schools ban the use of social media from their networks?
  • Should we be allowed to record others without their consent?
  • Do online crime sleuths help or hurt criminal investigations?

Education – Persuasive Speech Topics 

  • Would trade schools and other forms of vocational training benefit a greater number of students than traditional institutions of higher education?
  • Should colleges use standardized testing in their admissions processes?
  • Is forcing students to say the Pledge a violation of their right to freedom of speech?
  • Should school districts offer bilingual education programs for non-native speakers?
  • Should schools do away with their physical education requirements?
  • Should schools incorporate a remote learning option into their curriculum?
  • Should we allow school libraries to ban certain books?
  • Should we remove historical figures who owned slaves from school textbooks and other educational materials?
  • Should we have mixed-level classrooms or divide students according to ability?
  • Should grading on a curve be allowed?
  • Should graphic novels be considered literature?
  • Should all students have to take financial literacy classes before graduating?
  • Should colleges pay student athletes?
  • Should we ban violent contact sports like boxing and MMA?
  • Should sports leagues require professional athletes to stand during the national anthem?
  • Should sports teams ban players like Kyrie Irving when they spread misinformation or hate speech?
  • Should high schools require their athletes to maintain a certain GPA?
  • Should the Olympic committee allow transgender athletes to compete?
  • Should high schools ban football due to its safety risks to players?
  • Should all high school students be required to play a team sport?
  • Should sports teams be mixed instead of single-gender?
  • Should there be different athletic standards for men and women?
  • In which renewable energy option would the US do best to invest?
  • Should the US prioritize space exploration over domestic initiatives?
  • Should companies with a high carbon footprint be punished?
  • Should the FDA ban GMOs?
  • Would the world be a safer place without nuclear weapons?
  • Does AI pose a greater threat to humanity than it does the potential for advancement?
  • Who holds the most responsibility for mitigating climate change: individuals or corporations?
  • Should we be allowed to resurrect extinct species?
  • Are cancer screening programs ethical?

Social Issues – Persuasive Speech Topics

  • College education: should the government make it free for all?
  • Should we provide free healthcare for undocumented immigrants?
  • Is physician-assisted suicide morally justifiable?
  • Does social media have a negative impact on democracy?
  • Does cancel culture impede free speech?
  • Does affirmative action help or hinder minority groups in the workplace?
  • Should we hold public figures and celebrities to a higher standard of morality?
  • Should abortion be an issue that is decided at the federal or state level?
  • Should the sex offender registry be available to the public?
  • Should undocumented immigrants have a path to amnesty?
  • Do syringe services programs reduce or increase harmful behaviors?
  • Should there be a statute of limitations?
  • Should those who are convicted of a crime be required to report their criminal history on job and housing applications?

Politics and Government

  • Is the Electoral College still an effective way to elect the President of the US?
  • Should we allow judges to serve on the Supreme Court indefinitely?
  • Should the US establish a national gun registry?
  • Countries like Israel and China require all citizens to serve in the military. Is this a good or bad policy?
  • Should the police force require all its officers to wear body cameras while on duty?
  • Should the US invest in the development of clean meat as a sustainable protein source?
  • Should the US adopt ranked-choice voting?
  • Should institutions that profited from slavery provide reparations?
  • Should the government return land to Native American tribes?
  • Should there be term limits for representatives and senators?
  • Should there be an age limit for presidential candidates?
  • Should women be allowed in special forces units?

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics

  • Should schools have uniforms?
  • Can video games improve problem-solving skills?
  • Are online classes as effective as in-person classes?
  • Should companies implement a four-day work week?
  • Co-ed learning versus single-sex: which is more effective?
  • Should the school day start later?
  • Is homework an effective teaching tool?
  • Are electric cars really better for the environment?
  • Should schools require all students to study a foreign language?
  • Do professional athletes get paid too much money?

Fun Persuasive Speech Topics

  • Should we allow pets to run for public office?
  • Does pineapple belong on pizza?
  • Would students benefit from schools swapping out desks with more comfortable seating arrangements (i.e., bean bag chairs and couches)?
  • Is procrastination the key to success?
  • Should Americans adopt British accents to sound more intelligent?
  • The age-old dilemma: cats or dogs?
  • Should meme creators receive royalties when their memes go viral?
  • Should there be a minimum drinking age for coffee?
  • Are people who make their beds every day more successful than those who don’t?

Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics

  • Is the movie ranking system an effective way to evaluate the appropriateness of films?
  • Should the government place a “health tax” on junk food?
  • Is it ethical to create artificial life forms that are capable of complex emotions?
  • Should parents let children choose their own names?
  • Creating clones of ourselves to serve as organ donors: ethical or not?
  • Is it ethical to engineer humans to be better and more optimized than nature intended?
  • Should we adopt a universal language to communicate with people from all countries?
  • Should there be a penalty for people who don’t vote?
  • Should calories be printed on menus?
  • Does tourism positively or negatively impact local communities?
  • When used by non-Natives, are dreamcatchers cultural appropriation?
  • Should companies require their employees to specify pronouns in their signature line?
  • Should commercial fishing be banned?
  • Are cemeteries sustainable?
  • Is it okay to change the race, culture, and/or gender of historical figures in movies or TV shows?

I’ve Chosen My Topic, Now What?

Once you’ve selected your topic, it’s time to get to work crafting your argument. Preparation for a persuasive speech or essay involves some key steps, which we’ve outlined for you below.

How to Create a Successful Persuasive Speech, Step by Step

  • Research your topic. Read widely and smartly. Stick to credible sources, such as peer-reviewed articles, published books, government reports, textbooks, and news articles. The right sources and data will be necessary to help you establish your authority. As you go, take notes on the details and nuances of your topic as well as potential counterarguments. Research the counterarguments, too.
  • Choose an angle. For example, if you chose the topic “Should we limit screen time for children?” your speech should come down firmly on one side of that debate. If your topic is frequently debated, such as abortion, capital punishment, gun control, social media, etc. try to find a niche angle or new research. For example, instead of “Should abortion be legal?” you might consider “Should you be able to order abortion pills online?” Another example: “Should the death penalty be banned?” might become “How long is it ethical for someone to stay on death row?” If you do some digging, even the most cliche topics have incredibly interesting and relatively unexplored sub-topics.
  • Create an outline. Your outline should include an introduction with a thesis statement, a body that uses evidence to elaborate and support your position while refuting any counterarguments, and a conclusion. The conclusion will both summarize the points made earlier and serve as your final chance to persuade your audience.
  • Write your speech. Use your outline to help you as well as the data you’ve collected. Remember: this is not dry writing; this writing has a point of view, and that point of view is yours . Accordingly, use anecdotes and examples to back up your argument. The essential components of this speech are logos (logic), ethos (credibility), and pathos (emotion) . The ideal speech will use all three of these functions to engage the audience.

How to Practice and Deliver a Persuasive Speech

  • Talk to yourself in the mirror, record yourself, and/or hold a practice speech for family or friends. If you’ll be using visual cues, a slide deck, or notecards, practice incorporating them seamlessly into your speech. You should practice until your speech feels very familiar, at least 5-10 times.
  • Practice body language. Are you making eye contact with your audience, or looking at the ground? Crossing your arms over your chest or walking back and forth across the room? Playing with your hair, cracking your knuckles, or picking at your clothes? Practicing what to do with your body, face, and hands will help you feel more confident on speech day.
  • Take it slow. It’s common to talk quickly while delivering a speech—most of us want to get it over with! However, your audience will be able to connect with you much more effectively if you speak at a moderate pace, breathe, and pause when appropriate.
  • Give yourself grace. How you recover from a mistake is much more important than the mistake itself. Typically, the best approach is to good-naturedly shrug off a blip and move on. 99% of the time, your audience won’t even notice!

Good Persuasive Speech Topics—Final Thoughts

The art of persuasive speaking is a tricky one, but the tips and tricks laid out here will help you craft a compelling argument that will sway even the most dubious audience to your side. Mastering this art takes both time and practice, so don’t fret if it doesn’t come to you right away. Remember to draw upon your sources, speak with authority, and have fun. Once you have the skill of persuasive speaking down, go out there and use your voice to impact change!

Looking for some hot-button topics in college admissions? You might consider checking out the following:

  • Do Colleges Look at Social Media?
  • Should I Apply Test-Optional to College?
  • Should I Waive My Right to See Letters of Recommendation?
  • Should I Use the Common App Additional Information Section?
  • High School Success

Lauren Green

With a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing from Columbia University and an MFA in Fiction from the Michener Center for Writers at the University of Texas at Austin, Lauren has been a professional writer for over a decade. She is the author of the chapbook  A Great Dark House  (Poetry Society of America, 2023) and a forthcoming novel (Viking/Penguin).

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110 Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics to Impress Your Audience

Learn how to give an impressive persuasive speech and explore our comprehensive list of persuasive speech ideas .

A group of students applauding a persuasive speech

Learn what makes a persuasive speech with these topics

Introduction

What makes a good persuasive speech topic, how to create and deliver a compelling persuasive speech, 110 interesting persuasive speech topics, introduction .

Are you having a hard time coming up with the right persuasive speech topic? One that isn’t boring or cliche? Are you looking for a persuasive speech topic that will both interest you and captivate your audience? It’s easier said than done, right?

Creating and delivering an interesting persuasive speech is a major endeavor. The last thing you want is to get stuck on the first step—selecting a persuasive speech topic. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. To help you identify the perfect persuasive speech topic for you, we’ve compiled a list of 110 compelling persuasive speech ideas. Every single one of these ideas has the potential to be an outstanding persuasive speech. 

In addition, we’ll peel back the curtain to teach you what makes a good persuasive speech topic and give you expert tips on delivering a successful persuasive speech that will convince and astound your audience.

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There are three questions you can use to determine which persuasive speech topics will lead to enthusiastic applause and standing ovations. 

Does the persuasive speech topic interest you?

A major part of writing a persuasive speech is doing ample research on the subject you choose. So one of the first things you should ask yourself when considering a potential persuasive speech topic is, “Would I enjoy learning about this subject extensively?” If you can’t answer that question with an emphatic, “Yes!” you might want to continue your topic search. You don’t want to spend hours diving into a subject you don’t enjoy.

Plus, an audience can easily pick up on boredom or lack of interest in a persuasive speech, and you clearly don’t want that. On the other hand, if you’re explaining a subject you’re passionate about, your audience will get caught up in your excitement—resulting in a much more compelling and persuasive speech.

Here’s another word of advice. Some people will tell you to pick a persuasive speech topic you’re already an expert in, and that’s certainly one way to go about it. While we won’t tell you being an expert in the subject should be your top deciding factor, this approach has its advantages—you’re already familiar with the lingo and the basics of the subject are. This helps you significantly speed up your research process. But if you have the time and willingness to tackle an entirely unfamiliar subject that utterly fascinates you, we say go for it!

Will the persuasive speech topic interest your audience?

So you’ve found a few persuasive speech topics that interest you. But what about your audience? Do they share your interest? Even if you argue your points with enthusiasm, will they be bored by your subject? 

To answer these questions, you have to understand your audience well. Study them to learn what grabs their attention. What do they care about? What topics are relatable to their lives or their communities? What subjects will they be more likely to get emotionally invested in?

When you find persuasive speech topics that equally interest you and your audience, you’re setting yourself up for success.

Has the persuasive speech topic been covered too many times?

This is the last question you should ask yourself before committing to your persuasive speech topic. Has this topic been overdone? Even if your audience is invested in the subject, they’ll be quickly bored if they’ve listened to ten similar speeches prior to hearing yours. You won’t be persuasive if your listeners can predict each of your arguments before you give them. 

Instead, search for persuasive speech topics that are unique and fresh—something your audience hasn’t heard a hundred times before. The one exception to this is if you can approach an overworked topic with a completely fresh and unusual perspective. For example, maybe you can approach the gun control debate as someone whose friend died from an accidental shooting, but your family still owns guns and enjoys hunting as a pastime. 

Once you’ve chosen your persuasive speech topic (our list of 110 riveting persuasive speech ideas is coming next!) and completed your research on the subject, you’ll begin the writing process. Use this step-by-step approach to produce an outstanding speech that easily persuades your audience to adopt your viewpoint.

Determine your thesis. What opinion or belief are you convincing your audience to embrace? Are you asking them to take a specific action after listening to your speech? Just as you do when writing a college essay , make sure your thesis or call-to-action is crystal clear before you start writing.

Organize your main arguments. Create an outline of the evidence or points you’ve collected to support your thesis. Make sure your ideas flow logically into each other and build your case.

Support your arguments with facts and examples. You’ll want to use multiple sources for your evidence, with a preference for well-known or reputable sources. (Please don’t cite Wikipedia!) You can also get personal by using anecdotes from your own life or the lives of someone close to you. This will increase your persuasive speech’s impact.

Add emotional connections with your audience. Make your argument more powerful by appealing to your audience’s sense of nostalgia and common beliefs. Another tactic (which marketers use all the time) is to appeal to your listeners’ fears and rely on their instincts for self-preservation.

Address counterarguments. Rather than waiting for your audience to think up objections to the points you make, do it yourself. Then dispute those objections with additional facts, examples, and anecdotes. 

Wrap up your persuasive speech with a strong conclusion. In your closing, restate your thesis, tug on your audience’s heartstrings one last time with an emotional connection, and deliver your decisive call to action.

Now that you have a strongly written persuasive speech, your final task is this: practice, practice, and practice some more! We guarantee your delivery won’t be perfect on your first attempt. But on your tenth or fifteenth, it just might be.

Record yourself delivering your persuasive speech so you can play it back and analyze your areas needing improvement. Are your pauses too long or not long enough? Did you sufficiently emphasize your emotional points? Are your anecdotes coming out naturally? How is your body language? What about your hand movements and eye contact?

When you’re feeling more comfortable, deliver your speech to a friend or family member and ask for feedback. This will put your public speaking skills to the test. Ensure they understood your main points, connected emotionally, and had all their objections answered. Once you’ve fine tuned your persuasive speech based on your warm-up audience’s feedback, you’ll be ready for the real thing.

Now for the fun part! We’ve compiled a list of 110 persuasive speech topics—broken down by category—for you to choose from or use as inspiration. Use the set of three questions we shared above to determine which of these interesting persuasive speech topics is right for you.

Art, Media, and Culture

Should tattoos still be considered “unprofessional”?

Do romantic movies and books glorify an unrealistic idea of love and lead to heartbreak?

Should offensive and inappropriate language be removed from classic literature?

Does watching TV shows or movies about teenage suicide encourage it or prevent it?

Is creating films and documentaries about criminals glorifying them and inspiring some to become criminals themselves?

Should art and music therapy be prioritized over traditional talk therapy?

College and Career

Should the cost of college be reduced?

Are income-share agreements better for students than taking out student loans?

Should college athletes be paid like professional athletes are?

Are same-sex colleges beneficial or antiquated?

Should everyone go to college?

What are the benefits of taking a gap year before starting college?

Would removing tenure and job-protection from professors improve or reduce the quality of higher education?

Has the traditional college model become outdated in the age of the Internet?

Should you pursue a career based on your passions or a career based on earning potential?

Economy and Work

Should the federal minimum wage be increased?

Is the boom of e-commerce harmful or beneficial to small communities?

Should everyone receive paid maternity and paternity leave?

Is capitalism a harmful or beneficial economic system?

Should manufacturing and outsourced work be moved back to the United States?

Would three-day weekends increase work productivity?

Should working from home be the new standard?

Why should we pay more to support small businesses and services instead of going to large companies and retailers? 

Should the US establish mandatory military service for all its young people, such as the countries of Israel and South Korea do? 

Should there be a mandatory retirement age?

Should classes about mental health and wellness be added to school curriculum?

At what age or grade should sex education be taught in schools?

How can sex education be taught more effectively?

Should school funding be dependent on taxes of district residents or should all schools receive an equal amount of funding from the state?

What are the benefits of year-round schools?

Are charter schools hurting or helping low-income communities?

Is homeschooling beneficial or harmful to children?

Should students on the Autism spectrum be integrated into regular classrooms?

What should be the qualifications for books to be banned from schools?

Should advanced math classes in high school be replaced with more practical courses on financial literacy and understanding taxes?

Are grades an accurate representation of learning?

Should we switch to the metric system?

What is the most important book every high school student in America should read?

What are the benefits of teaching art and music classes in high school?

Should independent learning be offered as a larger option in high school?

What are the benefits of making preschool free to all families?

Environment and Conservation

Should fuel-run vehicles be banned?

How does it benefit nature to reduce human paper consumption?

Should it be okay to own exotic animals as pets?

Should hunting be made illegal?

What is the biggest current threat to the environment and how would you suggest we remedy it?

Should disposable diapers be banned?

Should zoos and animal theme parks (such as Sea World) be closed?

Family and Religion

Should children have the right to virtual and physical privacy from their parents?

“It takes a village to raise a child.” How important is a community in raising children?

Is it better for a young child to attend daycare or stay home with a parent?

Should children be told to believe in Santa Claus and the Tooth Fairy?

Nature vs. nurture—which is the most powerful influence on a person’s character?

Should parents have to give approval in order for their minor children to receive birth control?

How does learning about family ancestors impact you in the present and future?

Should parents teach their kids about sex or is it the responsibility of the school system?

What is the most beneficial parenting style and why?

Should cults receive protection under freedom of religion?

What are the benefits of belonging to a religious community?

Should parents force their children to go to church or let them decide for themselves?

Government and International Relations

Should states have the ability to secede from the U.S.?

Should Puerto Rico be added as a state to the U.S.?

How long should judges serve on the Supreme Court?

Should the U.S. have open borders?

Should the U.S. get involved when leaders of other countries commit human rights violations against their own people?

Is the U.S. overly dependent on manufactured goods and imports from other countries?

Should the government focus on increasing revenue or reducing spending?

Health and Medicine

Should universal health care be freely given to everyone? 

Should soda and candy be banned from school campuses?

Should tobacco products be completely banned in America?

Is a plant-based diet better than a meat-based diet?

Should addiction counseling and treatment be covered by health insurance?

Would taxing fast food help combat obesity?

Should we ban all genetically modified foods?

What would be the benefits of making all birth control methods (e.g. condoms, the pill) free of charge?

Should homeopathic and alternative medical treatments be covered by health insurance?

Politics and Society

Should voting become mandatory?

What could politicians do to appeal to younger generations of voters?

Should prisoners have the right to vote?

Would it be better in the U.S. if elected politicians were younger?

Should the police use rubber bullets instead of real bullets?

Are private, for-profit prisons a threat to prisoners’ rights?

Should U.S. military funding be increased or decreased? 

Should there be stricter or looser restrictions to qualify for welfare assistance?

Is our current two-party political system good enough or in need of replacing?

Should major corporations be eligible for tax breaks?

How can the current policy on undocumented immigrants in America be improved?

Should it be illegal for politicians to receive donations from large corporations?

Science and Technology

Should animal testing be banned?

Should organ donation be optional or mandated for all?

Is artificial intelligence a threat?

Should parents be allowed to scientifically alter their children’s genes?

What is the best option for renewable energy?

Should military forces be allowed to use drones in warfare?

Should self-driving cars be illegal?

Do the benefits of the internet outweigh the loss of privacy?

Should it be illegal for companies to sell their consumers’ information?

Should the government more strictly regulate the Internet?

How much screen time is too much?

Should everyone receive free internet?

Should we build a colony on the moon?

Social Media

At what age should children be allowed to be on social media?

Should schools be responsible for teaching safe social media education?

When should children be allowed to have a cell phone?

What should the punishment be for cyberbullying? 

Do online friendships have the same benefits as in-person friendships?

Are social media influencers beneficial or harmful to society?

Has the popularity of “selfies” increased self-confidence or self-centeredness?

Is cancel culture a positive or a negative thing?

What are the most reliable, unbiased sources to receive news and information?

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105 Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics for Any Project

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General Education

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Are you struggling to find good persuasive speech topics? It can be hard to find a topic that interests both you and your audience, but in this guide we've done the hard work and created a list of 105 great persuasive speech ideas. They're organized into ten categories and cover a variety of topics, so you're sure to find one that interests you.

In addition to our list, we also go over which factors make good persuasive speech topics and three tips you should follow when researching and writing your persuasive speech.

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

What makes certain persuasive speech topics better than others? There are numerous reasons, but in this section we discuss three of the most important factors of great topics for a persuasive speech.

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

The most important factor in choosing and creating a great persuasive speech is picking a topic you care about and are interested in. You'll need to do a lot of research on this topic, and if it's something you like learning about, that'll make the process much easier and more enjoyable. It'll also help you sound passionate and informed when you talk, both important factors in giving an excellent persuasive speech.

It's a Topic People Care About

In fourth grade, after being told I could give a persuasive speech on any topic I wanted to , I chose to discuss why the Saguaro cactus should be the United State's national plant. Even though I gave an impassioned talk and drew a life-size Saguaro cactus on butcher paper to hang behind me, I doubt anyone enjoyed the speech much.

I'd recently returned from a family vacation to Arizona where I'd seen Saguaro cacti for the first time and decided they were the coolest thing ever. However, most people don't care that much about Saguaro cacti, and most people don't care what our national plant is or if we even have one (for the record, the US has a national flower, and it's the rose).

Spare yourself the smattering of bored applause my nine-old self got at the end of my speech and choose something you think people will be interested in hearing about. This also ties into knowing your audience, which we discuss more in the final section.

It Isn't Overdone

When I was in high school, nearly every persuasive speech my classmates and I were assigned was the exact same topic: should the drinking age be lowered to 18? I got this prompt in English class, on standardized tests, in speech and debate class, etc. I've written and presented about it so often I could probably still rattle off all the main points of my old speeches word-for-word.

You can imagine that everyone's eyes glazed over whenever classmates gave their speeches on this topic. We'd heard about it so many times that, even if it was a topic we cared about, speeches on it just didn't interest us anymore.

The are many potential topics for a persuasive speech. Be wary of choosing one that's cliche or overdone. Even if you give a great speech, it'll be harder to keep your audience interested if they feel like they already know what you're going to say.

An exception to this rule is that if you feel you have a new viewpoint or facts about the topic that currently aren't common knowledge. Including them can make an overdone topic interesting. If you do this, be sure to make it clear early on in your speech that you have unique info or opinions on the topic so your audience knows to expect something new.

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105 Topics for a Persuasive Speech

Here's our list of 105 great persuasive speech ideas. We made sure to choose topics that aren't overdone, yet that many people will have an interest in, and we also made a point of choosing topics with multiple viewpoints rather than simplistic topics that have a more obvious right answer (i.e. Is bullying bad?). The topics are organized into ten categories.

Arts/Culture

  • Should art and music therapy be covered by health insurance?
  • Should all students be required to learn an instrument in school?
  • Should all national museums be free to citizens?
  • Should graffiti be considered art?
  • Should offensive language be removed from works of classic literature?
  • Are paper books better than e-books?
  • Should all interns be paid for their work?
  • Should employees receive bonuses for walking or biking to work?
  • Will Brexit hurt or help the UK's economy?
  • Should all people over the age of 65 be able to ride the bus for free?
  • Should the federal minimum wage be increased?
  • Should tipping in restaurants be mandatory?
  • Should Black Friday sales be allowed to start on Thanksgiving?
  • Should students who bully others be expelled?
  • Should all schools require students wear uniforms?
  • Should boys and girls be taught in separate classrooms?
  • Should students be allowed to listen to music during study hall?
  • Should all elementary schools be required to teach a foreign language?
  • Should schools include meditation or relaxation breaks during the day?
  • Should grades in gym class affect students' GPAs?
  • Should teachers get a bonus when their students score well on standardized tests?
  • Should children of undocumented immigrants be allowed to attend public schools?
  • Should students get paid for getting a certain GPA?
  • Should students be allowed to have their cell phones with them during school?
  • Should high school students be allowed to leave school during lunch breaks?
  • Should Greek life at colleges be abolished?
  • Should high school students be required to volunteer a certain number of hours before they can graduate?
  • Should schools still teach cursive handwriting?
  • What are the best ways for schools to stop bullying?
  • Should prostitution be legalized?
  • Should people with more than one DUI lose their driver's license?
  • Should people be required to shovel snow from the sidewalks in front of their house?
  • Should minors be able to drink alcohol in their home if they have their parent's consent?
  • Should guns be allowed on college campuses?
  • Should flag burning as a form of protest be illegal?
  • Should welfare recipients be required to pass a drug test?
  • Should white supremacist groups be allowed to hold rallies in public places?
  • Should assault weapons be illegal?
  • Should the death penalty be abolished?
  • Should beauty pageants for children be banned?
  • Is it OK to refuse to serve same-sex couples based on religious beliefs?
  • Should transgender people be allowed to serve in the military?
  • Is it better to live together before marriage or to wait?
  • Should affirmative action be allowed?
  • Should prisoners be allowed to vote?
  • Should Columbus Day be replaced with Indigenous Peoples' Day?

Government/Politics

  • Should the government spend more money on developing high-speed rail lines and less on building new roads?
  • Should the government be allowed to censor internet content deemed inappropriate?
  • Should Puerto Rico become the 51st state?
  • Should Scotland declare independence from the United Kingdom?
  • Whose face should be on the next new currency printed by the US?
  • Should people convicted of drug possession be sent to recovery programs instead of jail?
  • Should voting be made compulsory?
  • Who was the best American president?
  • Should the military budget be reduced?
  • Should the President be allowed to serve more than two terms?
  • Should a border fence be built between the United States and Mexico?
  • Should countries pay ransom to terrorist groups in order to free hostages?
  • Should minors be able to purchase birth control without their parent's consent?
  • Should hiding or lying about your HIV status with someone you're sleeping with be illegal?
  • Should governments tax soda and other sugary drinks and use the revenue for public health?
  • Should high schools provide free condoms to students?
  • Should the US switch to single-payer health care?
  • Should healthy people be required to regularly donate blood?
  • Should assisted suicide be legal?
  • Should religious organizations be required to pay taxes?
  • Should priests be allowed to get married?
  • Should the religious slaughter of animals be banned?
  • Should the Church of Scientology be exempt from paying taxes?
  • Should women be allowed to be priests?
  • Should countries be allowed to only accept refugees with certain religious beliefs?
  • Should public prayer be allowed in schools?

Science/Environment

  • Should human cloning be allowed?
  • Should people be allowed to own exotic animals like tigers and monkeys?
  • Should "animal selfies" in tourist locations with well-known animal species (like koalas and tigers) be allowed?
  • Should genetically modified foods be sold in grocery stores?
  • Should people be allowed to own pit bulls?
  • Should parents be allowed to choose the sex of their unborn children?
  • Should vaccinations be required for students to attend public school?
  • What is the best type of renewable energy?
  • Should plastic bags be banned in grocery stores?
  • Should the United States rejoin the Paris Agreement?
  • Should puppy mills be banned?
  • Should fracking be legal?
  • Should animal testing be illegal?
  • Should offshore drilling be allowed in protected marine areas?
  • Should the US government increase NASA's budget?
  • Should Pluto still be considered a planet?
  • Should college athletes be paid for being on a sports team?
  • Should all athletes be required to pass regular drug tests?
  • Should professional female athletes be paid the same as male athletes in the same sport?
  • Are there any cases when athletes should be allowed to use steroids?
  • Should college sports teams receive less funding?
  • Should boxing be illegal?
  • Should schools be required to teach all students how to swim?
  • Should cheerleading be considered a sport?
  • Should parents let their children play tackle football?
  • Will robots reduce or increase human employment opportunities?
  • What age should children be allowed to have a cell phone?
  • Should libraries be replaced with unlimited access to e-books?
  • Overall, has technology helped connect people or isolate them?
  • Should self-driving cars be legal?
  • Should all new buildings be energy efficient?
  • Is Net Neutrality a good thing or a bad thing?
  • Do violent video games encourage players to become violent in real life?

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3 Bonus Tips for Crafting Your Persuasive Speech

Of course, giving a great persuasive speech requires more than just choosing a good topic. Follow the three tips below to create an outstanding speech that'll interest and impress your audience.

Do Your Research

For a persuasive speech, there's nothing worse than getting an audience question that shows you misunderstood the issue or left an important piece out. It makes your entire speech look weak and unconvincing.

Before you start writing a single word of your speech, be sure to do lots of research on all sides of the topic. Look at different sources and points of view to be sure you're getting the full picture, and if you know any experts on the topic, be sure to ask their opinion too.

Consider All the Angles

Persuasive speech topics are rarely black and white, which means there will be multiple sides and viewpoints on the topic. For example, for the topic "Should people be allowed to own pit bulls?" there are two obvious viewpoints: everyone should be allowed to own a pit bull if they want to, and no one should be allowed to own a pit bull. But there are other options you should also consider: people should only own a pit bull if they pass a dog training class, people should be able to own pit bulls, but only if it's the only dog they own, people should be able to own pi tbulls but only if they live a certain distance from schools, people should be able to own pit bulls only if the dog passes an obedience class, etc.

Thinking about all these angles and including them in your speech will make you seem well-informed on the topic, and it'll increase the quality of your speech by looking at difference nuances of the issue.

Know Your Audience

Whenever you give a speech, it's important to consider your audience, and this is especially true for persuasive speeches when you're trying to convince people to believe a certain viewpoint. When writing your speech, think about what your audience likely already knows about the topic, what they probably need explained, and what aspects of the topic they care about most. Also consider what the audience will be most concerned about for a certain topic, and be sure to address those concerns.

For example, if you're giving a speech to a Catholic organization on why you think priests should be allowed to marry, you don't need to go over the history of Catholicism or its core beliefs (which they probably already know), but you should mention any research or prominent opinions that support your view (which they likely don't know about). They may be concerned that priests who marry won't be as committed to God or their congregations, so be sure to address those concerns and why they shouldn't worry about them as much as they may think. Discussing your topic with people (ideally those with viewpoints similar to those of your future audience) before you give your speech is a good way to get a better understanding of how your audience thinks.

More Resources for Writing Persuasive Speeches

If you need more guidance or just want to check out some examples of great persuasive writing, consider checking out the following books:

  • Lend Me Your Ears: Great Speeches in History by William Safire—This collection of great speeches throughout history will help you decide how to style your own argument.
  • The Essentials of Persuasive Public Speaking by Sims Wyeth—For quick direct tips on public speaking, try this all-purpose guide.
  • Talk Like TED: The 9 Public-Speaking Secrets of the World's Top Minds by Carmine Gallo—This popular book breaks down what makes TED talks work and how you can employ those skills in your own presentations.
  • We Should All Be Feminists by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Make Good Art by Neil Gaiman—These two recent speeches by contemporary writers offer stellar examples of how to craft a compelling (and engaging) argument.

Conclusion: Persuasive Speech Ideas

Good persuasive speech topics can be difficult to think of, but in this guide we've compiled a list of 105 interesting persuasive speech topics for you to look through.

The best persuasive speech ideas will be on a topic you're interested in, aren't overdone, and will be about something your audience cares about.

After you've chosen your topic, keep these three tips in mind when writing your persuasive speech:

  • Do your research
  • Consider all the angles
  • Know your audience

What's Next?

Now that you have persuasive speech topics, it's time to hone your persuasive speech techniques. Find out what ethos, pathos, logos, and kairos are and how to use them here .

Looking to take your persuasive technique from speech to sheets (of paper)? Get our three key tips on how to write an argumentative essay , or learn by reading through our thorough breakdown of how to build an essay, step by step .

Want a great GPA? Check out our step-by-step guide to getting good grades in high school so you can have a stellar transcript.

Interested in learning about other great extracurricular opportunities? Learn more about job shadowing , community service , and volunteer abroad programs.

Still trying to figure out your courses? Check out our expert guide on which classes you should take in high school.

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

These recommendations are based solely on our knowledge and experience. If you purchase an item through one of our links, PrepScholar may receive a commission.

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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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75 Persuasive Speech Topics and Ideas

October 4, 2018 - Gini Beqiri

To write a captivating and persuasive speech you must first decide on a topic that will engage, inform and also persuade the audience. We have discussed how to choose a topic and we have provided a list of speech ideas covering a wide range of categories.

What is persuasive speech?

The aim of a persuasive speech is to inform, educate and convince or motivate an audience to do something. You are essentially trying to sway the audience to adopt your own viewpoint.

The best persuasive speech topics are thought-provoking, daring and have a clear opinion. You should speak about something you are knowledgeable about and can argue your opinion for, as well as objectively discuss counter-arguments.

How to choose a topic for your speech

It’s not easy picking a topic for your speech as there are many options so consider the following factors when deciding.

Familiarity

Topics that you’re familiar with will make it easier to prepare for the speech.

It’s best if you decide on a topic in which you have a genuine interest in because you’ll be doing lots of research on it and if it’s something you enjoy the process will be significantly easier and more enjoyable. The audience will also see this enthusiasm when you’re presenting which will make the speech more persuasive.

The audience’s interest

The audience must care about the topic. You don’t want to lose their attention so choose something you think they’ll be interested in hearing about.

Consider choosing a topic that allows you to be more descriptive because this allows the audience to visualize which consequently helps persuade them.

Not overdone

When people have heard about a topic repeatedly they’re less likely to listen to you as it doesn’t interest them anymore. Avoid cliché or overdone topics as it’s difficult to maintain your audience’s attention because they feel like they’ve heard it all before.

An exception to this would be if you had new viewpoints or new facts to share. If this is the case then ensure you clarify early in your speech that you have unique views or information on the topic.

Emotional topics

Emotions are motivators so the audience is more likely to be persuaded and act on your requests if you present an emotional topic.

People like hearing about issues that affect them or their community, country etc. They find these topics more relatable which means they find them more interesting. Look at local issues and news to discover these topics.

Desired outcome

What do you want your audience to do as a result of your speech? Use this as a guide to choosing your topic, for example, maybe you want people to recycle more so you present a speech on the effect of microplastics in the ocean.

Jamie Oliver persuasive speech

Persuasive speech topics

Lots of timely persuasive topics can be found using social media, the radio, TV and newspapers. We have compiled a list of 75 persuasive speech topic ideas covering a wide range of categories.

Some of the topics also fall into other categories and we have posed the topics as questions so they can be easily adapted into statements to suit your own viewpoint.

  • Should pets be adopted rather than bought from a breeder?
  • Should wild animals be tamed?
  • Should people be allowed to own exotic animals like monkeys?
  • Should all zoos and aquariums be closed?

Arts/Culture

  • Should art and music therapy be covered by health insurance?
  • Should graffiti be considered art?
  • Should all students be required to learn an instrument in school?
  • Should automobile drivers be required to take a test every three years?
  • Are sports cars dangerous?
  • Should bicycles share the roads with cars?
  • Should bicycle riders be required by law to always wear helmets?

Business and economy

  • Do introverts make great leaders?
  • Does owning a business leave you feeling isolated?
  • What is to blame for the rise in energy prices?
  • Does hiring cheaper foreign employees hurt the economy?
  • Should interns be paid for their work?
  • Should employees receive bonuses for walking or biking to work?
  • Should tipping in restaurants be mandatory?
  • Should boys and girls should be taught in separate classrooms?
  • Should schools include meditation breaks during the day?
  • Should students be allowed to have their mobile phones with them during school?
  • Should teachers have to pass a test every decade to renew their certifications?
  • Should online teaching be given equal importance as the regular form of teaching?
  • Is higher education over-rated?
  • What are the best ways to stop bullying?
  • Should people with more than one DUI lose their drivers’ licenses?
  • Should prostitution be legalised?
  • Should guns be illegal in the US?
  • Should cannabis be legalised for medical reasons?
  • Is equality a myth?
  • Does what is “right” and “wrong” change from generation to generation?
  • Is there never a good enough reason to declare war?
  • Should governments tax sugary drinks and use the revenue for public health?
  • Has cosmetic surgery risen to a level that exceeds good sense?
  • Is the fast-food industry legally accountable for obesity?
  • Should school cafeterias only offer healthy food options?
  • Is acupuncture a valid medical technique?
  • Should assisted suicide be legal?
  • Does consuming meat affect health?
  • Is dieting a good way to lose weight?

Law and politics

  • Should voting be made compulsory?
  • Should the President (or similar position) be allowed to serve more than two terms?
  • Would poverty reduce by fixing housing?
  • Should drug addicts be sent for treatment in hospitals instead of prisons?
  • Would it be fair for the government to detain suspected terrorists without proper trial?
  • Is torture acceptable when used for national security?
  • Should celebrities who break the law receive stiffer penalties?
  • Should the government completely ban all cigarettes and tobacco products
  • Is it wrong for the media to promote a certain beauty standard?
  • Is the media responsible for the moral degradation of teenagers?
  • Should advertising be aimed at children?
  • Has freedom of press gone too far?
  • Should prayer be allowed in public schools?
  • Does religion have a place in government?
  • How do cults differ from religion?

Science and the environment

  • Should recycling be mandatory?
  • Should genetically modified foods be sold in supermarkets?
  • Should parents be allowed to choose the sex of their unborn children?
  • Should selling plastic bags be completely banned in shops?
  • Should smoking in public places be banned?
  • Should professional female athletes be paid the same as male athletes in the same sport?
  • Should doping be allowed in professional sports?
  • Should schools be required to teach all students how to swim?
  • How does parental pressure affect young athletes?
  • Will technology reduce or increase human employment opportunities?
  • What age should children be allowed to have mobile phones?
  • Should libraries be replaced with unlimited access to e-books?
  • Should we recognize Bitcoin as a legal currency?
  • Should bloggers and vloggers be treated as journalists and punished for indiscretions?
  • Has technology helped connect people or isolate them?
  • Should mobile phone use in public places be regulated?
  • Do violent video games make people more violent?

World peace

  • What is the safest country in the world?
  • Is planetary nuclear disarmament possible?
  • Is the idea of peace on earth naive?

These topics are just suggestions so you need to assess whether they would be suitable for your particular audience. You can easily adapt the topics to suit your interests and audience, for example, you could substitute “meat” in the topic “Does consuming meat affect health?” for many possibilities, such as “processed foods”, “mainly vegan food”, “dairy” and so on.

After choosing your topic

After you’ve chosen your topic it’s important to do the following:

  • Research thoroughly
  • Think about all of the different viewpoints
  • Tailor to your audience – discussing your topic with others is a helpful way to gain an understanding of your audience.
  • How involved are you with this topic – are you a key character?
  • Have you contributed to this area, perhaps through blogs, books, papers and products.
  • How qualified are you to speak on this topic?
  • Do you have personal experience in it? How many years?
  • How long have you been interested in the area?

While it may be difficult to choose from such a variety of persuasive speech topics, think about which of the above you have the most knowledge of and can argue your opinion on.

For advice about how to deliver your persuasive speech, check out our blog  Persuasive Speech Outline and Ideas .

100 Persuasive Speech Topics for Students

  • Homework Tips
  • Learning Styles & Skills
  • Study Methods
  • Time Management
  • Private School
  • College Admissions
  • College Life
  • Graduate School
  • Business School
  • Distance Learning
  • M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
  • B.A., History, Armstrong State University

If you are planning a persuasive speech, you should think about a topic that can engage your audience. For this reason, you may want to consider a few topics before settling on the one that allows you to be more descriptive and entertaining.

Another important factor when picking a persuasive speech topic is to choose one that can provoke your audience. If you stir up a little emotion in your audience members, you'll keep their attention.

The list below is provided to help you brainstorm. Choose a topic from this list, or use it to generate an idea of your own. It could even be an idea that opposes the proposed example. For instance, instead of arguing American workers should be guaranteed a three-day weekend by law, you could argue why this shouldn't be the case.

How to Pick a Good Persuasive Speech Topic

Persuasive speeches are generally meant to convince an audience to agree with an idea you present. The topics can range from political to scientific or societal, and professional to personal—or even fun. They can be almost anything.

Just remember, a persuasive speech is different than a persuasive essay because you are presenting to an audience. So as you decide on a topic, think about your audience and decide on a subject matter that will be appropriate, compelling, and engaging to discuss. Perhaps it's a timely issue attracting a lot of news coverage, or maybe you want to be motivational and encourage a healthy activity. Whatever it is, structure your argument with a hook to capture attention , a clear definition of the topic or issue, and finally, your proposed solution or opinion.

100 Examples of Persuasive Speech Topics

  • Studying martial arts is good for mind and health.
  • Competitive sports can teach us about life.
  • Reality shows are exploiting people.
  • Community service should be a graduation requirement for all high school students.
  • The characteristics that make a person a hero.
  • It's important to grow things in a garden.
  • Violent video games are dangerous.
  • Lyrics in a song can impact our lives.
  • Traveling and studying abroad are positive experiences.
  • Journal writing is therapeutic.
  • You should spend time with your grandparents.
  • A laptop is better than a tablet.
  • Religion and science can go hand in hand.
  • School uniforms are good.
  • All-female colleges and all-male colleges are bad.
  • Multiple-choice tests are better than essay tests .
  • We should not spend money on space exploration.
  • Open-book tests are as effective as closed-book tests.
  • Security cameras keep us safer.
  • Parents should have access to students' grades.
  • Small classes are better than big classes.
  • You need to start saving for retirement now.
  • Credit cards are harmful to college students.
  • We should have a royal family.
  • We should protect endangered animals.
  • Texting while driving is dangerous.
  • You can write a novel.
  • Recycling should be required in the U.S.
  • State colleges are better than private colleges.
  • Private colleges are better than state colleges.
  • We should do away with penny coins.
  • Fast food containers hurt the environment.
  • Plastic straws are harmful to the environment.
  • You can eat and enjoy healthy snacks.
  • You can become a millionaire.
  • Dogs are better pets than cats.
  • You should own a bird.
  • It's unethical to keep birds in cages.
  • Liberal arts degrees prepare graduates to be better workers than other degrees.
  • Hunting animals should be banned.
  • Football is a dangerous sport.
  • School days should start later.
  • Night school is better than day school.
  • Technical training is better than a college degree.
  • Immigration laws should be more lenient.
  • Students should be able to choose their schools.
  • Everyone should learn to play a musical instrument.
  • Grass lawns should be prohibited.
  • Sharks should be protected.
  • We should do away with cars and go back to horse and carriage for transportation.
  • We should use more wind power.
  • We should pay more taxes.
  • We should do away with taxes.
  • Teachers should be tested like students.
  • We should not interfere in the affairs of other countries.
  • Every student should join a club.
  • Homeschooling is better than traditional schooling.
  • People should stay married for life.
  • Smoking in public should be illegal.
  • College students should live on campus .
  • Parents should let students fail.
  • Giving to charity is good.
  • Education makes us happier people.
  • T​he ​ death penalty should be outlawed.
  • Bigfoot is real.
  • We should increase train travel to save the environment.
  • We should read more classic books.
  • Fame is bad for young children.
  • Athletes should stay loyal to teams.
  • We should reform our prisons.
  • Juvenile offenders should not go to boot camps.
  • Abraham Lincoln was the best president.
  • Abraham Lincoln gets too much credit.
  • Students should be allowed to have cell phones in elementary, middle, and high school.
  • College student-athletes should be paid for playing.
  • Elderly citizens on fixed income should receive free public transportation.
  • Colleges and universities should be free to attend.
  • All American citizens should complete one year of community service.
  • Students should be required to take Spanish language classes.
  • Every student should be required to learn at least one foreign language .
  • Marijuana should be legal for recreational use nationwide.
  • Commercial testing of products on animals should no longer be allowed.
  • High school students should be required to participate in at least one team sport.
  • The minimum drinking age in the U.S. should be 25.
  • Replacing fossil fuels with cheaper alternative energy options should be mandated.
  • Churches need to contribute their share of taxes.
  • The Cuba embargo should be maintained by the U.S.
  • America should replace income taxes with a nationwide flat tax.
  • Once they reach the age of 18, all U.S. citizens should be automatically registered to vote .
  • Doctor-assisted suicide should be legal.
  • Spammers—people who bombard the internet with unsolicited email—should be banned from sending junk mail.
  • Every automobile driver should be required to take a new driver's test every three years.
  • Electroshock treatment is not a humane form of therapy.
  • Global warming is not real.
  • Single-parent adoption should be encouraged and promoted.
  • Gun companies should be held accountable for gun crimes.
  • Human cloning is not moral.
  • Religion does not belong in public education.
  • Juveniles should not be tried as adults.
  • American workers should be guaranteed a three-day weekend by law.
  • Controversial Speech Topics
  • List of Supplies for High School Students
  • 5 Tips on How to Write a Speech Essay
  • Understanding Very Big Numbers
  • 50 Topics for Impromptu Student Speeches
  • How to Write and Structure a Persuasive Speech
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  • National Competitions in Science and Math
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  • Basic Tips for Memorizing Speeches, Skits, and Plays
  • How to Stop Overthinking Tests and Projects
  • What Is a Blue Book?

July 24, 2024

250+ Ideas for persuasive speech topics

How to choose a great persuasive speech topic, inspiration and ideas, and example presentations for you to get started

what are good topics for a persuasive speech

Co-founder, CEO

Creating a great persuasive speech starts with picking the right topic. With the right topic, it's much easier to lay the groundwork for a great argument and a great speech.

Some of these persuasive speech ideas are meant to be funny, some are “easier” to create a speech around, and all of them offer the ability to take multiple sides and/or present multiple points of view.

Here are over 250 of the best hand-picked ideas for persuasive speech topics, categorized by topic area.

How to pick a topic for your persuasive speech

To make a great persuasive speech, you should pick a topic that meets the following criteria:

  • You’re interested in the subject matter - Life is short! Don’t spend a bunch of time researching something that you don’t want to learn about or discuss.
  • There are multiple perspectives - If there’s no need to persuade anyone, it’s not a persuasive speech.
  • It’s relevant and topical - Whether it’s relevant to your friends, classmates, or current events, there’s a reason to research and learn more about this topic.
  • You can bring unique insights - Whether you have a personal experience, unexpected facts, or can debunk some commonly misunderstood beliefs, surprising and educating your audience is one of the best ways to create an effective persuasive speech.

How to write a persuasive speech

The first step to writing a persuasive speech is to research and understand the different viewpoints on the topic, form a personal opinion based on the facts, and then create a rough outline of your speech.

what are good topics for a persuasive speech

Depending on how long your presentation is , you will probably want to have 2 or 3 key points as well as supporting information about each of your key points.

Once you have the key points planned out, you can write your full speech and create an accompanying presentation, if needed.

Create a first draft of your presentation with Plus AI

If you want to get a jump start on a first draft of the speech or presentation, you can use a tool like Plus AI to quickly create a starting point for you, and edit it from there.

Most popular persuasive speech ideas

Here are some of the most popular ideas for persuasive speeches, based on topics we have seen in the past:

  • Is student debt forgiveness a good idea?
  • Should students be allowed to use AI ?
  • Would universal basic income improve the day-to-day life of everyone?
  • Should AI systems always be able to explain their decisions ?
  • Are public figures entitled to the same privacy as private citizens?
  • Are politicians getting too old to be effective?
  • Is social media bad for you?
  • Can money buy happiness ?
  • Should the government regulate social media companies? 
  • Should religion be taught in schools?

what are good topics for a persuasive speech

Here’s an example presentation on whether students should be allowed to use AI in school.

Easy persuasive speech ideas

Here are some topics that should be easier persuasive speech ideas for students because you may already have a point of view or personal experiences that could enhance the content of your presentation.

  • Should students be allowed to use AI tools?
  • Should you exercise every day?
  • Is the current tax system fair and effective?
  • Should we reduce the use of single-use plastics?
  • Should voting be mandatory?
  • Should schools teach kids a foreign language?
  • Should smartphones be banned in school?
  • Should schools teach financial management and other practical skills?
  • Are phones and social media affecting how kids grow up?
  • Should the government invest more money in space exploration?
  • Is math more important than reading?

Persuasive speech ideas about society

Here are some ideas for speeches about society and how we live where it could be interesting to share different points of view.

  • What is the most important issue for young people today?
  • Are romantic movies good for feminism?
  • Would universal basic income improve the day-to-day life of most people?
  • How can education reduce social inequality?
  • Is there still a stigma when people have mental health issues?
  • Do people enjoy the commercialization of holidays?
  • How should countries trade off the need for safety vs. privacy?
  • How has reality TV changed dating?
  • Why is religion becoming less important in modern society?
  • Are communities stronger in urban areas or rural areas?
  • Should schools encourage students to be politically active?
  • Are we headed towards World War 3?
  • What are the best ways to reduce homelessness?
  • Is cancel culture a bad thing?
  • How do government programs like social security benefit society?

Persuasive speech ideas about AI

AI is a hot topic these days, and people have a lot of different opinions on AI. Here are some ideas that can help you find the perfect topic for a persuasive speech about AI.

  • Should intelligent AIs have "human rights"?
  • Who should be at fault if an AI system makes a bad decision?
  • Will AI destroy jobs or lead to new forms of work for people?
  • Who is the creator of an AI-generated artwork / book / song?
  • Does AI increase inequality?
  • How should people handle misinformation in the age of AI?
  • Should AI systems always be able to explain their decisions?
  • Will AI change the way we interact with other people in social situations?
  • Should AI developers be reponsible for making AI behave ethically?
  • Should there be a global regulatory framework for AI? 
  • If AI performs better than human doctors, should it be allowed to make medical decisions?

Persuasive speech ideas about the environment

Given the media’s polarized coverage of climate change (see what I did there 😄), there are no shortage of opinions on the environment. Here are some interesting speech ideas on the environment.

  • What is the cost of climate change? 
  • Should cities ban items like plastic bags and plastic straws?
  • How should corporations be held responsible for climate change?
  • Why is investing in renewable energy important?
  • Should all endangered species be protected?
  • Should farmers be forced to adopt water conservation policies?
  • Are electric vehicles a failure?
  • Should "fast fashion" be regulated in order to protect the environment?
  • How can overfishing be prevented?
  • Is nuclear energy a good solution or a threat?
  • Is ecotourism good for local economies and ecosystems?
  • Who should decide what makes a building "green"?
  • Is "organic" a meaningless word today?
  • Can technology solve our environmental problems?
  • Should we limit the use of pesticides and chemicals in agriculture?
  • Should countries limit the import and export of water?

Persuasive speech ideas about arts and culture

If you’re looking to do a persuasive speech on art or culture, there are certainly a lot of different opinions and interesting media assets you could share with your audience.

what are good topics for a persuasive speech

Here’s an example slide deck created by Plus AI on whether NFTs should be considered “art.”

  • Should NFTs like Bored Apes be considered art?
  • Has the quality of music gotten worse over time? 
  • Should we keep reading literature that is offensive?
  • Should people study video games as a form of art?
  • Should paparazzi be allowed to invade celebrities' privacy?
  • Is modern art less "artistic" than classic art?
  • Should the government fund more arts and culture programs?
  • When should art be censored?
  • When does cultural exchange become cultural appropriation?
  • Is AI-generated art really art?
  • Is graffiti on public buildings art or vandalism?

Persuasive speech ideas about ethics

Ethics and moral dilemmas are a classic set of topics for persuasive speeches. Here are some of the traditional questions that often come up in this category as well as some newer ones based on the latest trends and news.

  • Should laws and morals always be in alignment?
  • Is political lobbying moral and ethical? 
  • Is testing products on animals unethical?
  • Should people be allowed to sell their kidneys?
  • Should capital punishment exist as a form of justice?
  • Should people have the right to euthanasia? 
  • Is selecting for or against certain traits in embryos genetic engineering?
  • Should governments be allowed to use torture in the name of national security?
  • How should AI and robotic systems be used in warfare?
  • What moral obligations do humans have towards animals and pets?
  • What types of performance-enhancing treatments are ethical in sports?
  • How should self-driving cars approach situations like the "trolley problem"?
  • Are parents allowed to make decisions in the best interest of their children?
  • Should prostitution be legal?

Persuasive speech ideas about health

People generally have a lot of opinions about their bodies and how to take care of them. Many debates come from other people having different opinions. Here are some persuasive speech ideas about healthcare and medicine.

  • What should be taught in health education in schools? 
  • Should we legalize more drugs and other illicit substances?
  • Does the government have the right to declare vaccines mandatory?
  • Does social media have positive impacts on mental health? 
  • Would universal healthcare be a positive impact on our country?
  • Who should be held responsible for the opioid crisis?
  • Should the government discourage people from drinking alcohol?
  • Are there benefits to cannabis use? 
  • Should clinical trials use placebos?
  • Should people wear masks every day, even when they are not sick?
  • What is the best way to encourage people to exercise more? 
  • Should pharmaceutical companies make drugs cheaper?
  • How should organ transplants be allocated?
  • Is alternative medicine legitimate?
  • Is it ethical to develop life extension technologies?

Persuasive speech ideas about politics

Could there be a topic that needs more persuasive dialogue than politics? Here are some interesting speech ideas on the topics of politics and government.

what are good topics for a persuasive speech

We used Plus AI to generate this presentation on whether politicians are getting too old to be effective.

  • Should we institute a mandatory military service or civil service program?
  • Is there too much spending on the military?
  • What is the best system of modern government?
  • Should there always be term limits on elected officials? 
  • How should we control the influence of money in politics?
  • Should political campaigns be funded by the state?
  • Do independent political candidates improve elections?
  • How should we change our national immigration policies?
  • How should public officials be held accountable for their actions?
  • Should social media platforms be allowed to take sides in politics?
  • Should our country be more focused on self-sufficiency or globalization?
  • Are state-sponsored assassinations acceptable for national security?
  • Should prisoners have the right to vote?

Persuasive speech ideas about sports

It might be hard to think about a fun topic like sports in the context of making a speech, but here are a few ideas on topics that can be both academic and relate to your passion in sports.

  • Is there too much importance placed on football?
  • Is betting in sports ethical? 
  • Are athletes paid too much?
  • Should athletes be allowed to take performance-enhancing drugs?
  • Should physical education be a compulsory subject in school?
  • Should female athletes be paid the same as male athletes?
  • Do replays and other technologies enhance sports or take away from the experience?
  • How important is racial representation in sports?
  • Are animal sports like horse racing or bullfighting ethical?
  • Are youth sports too commercialized?
  • Should high school and college athletes be compensated?
  • Should transgender athletes compete in gender-specific competitions?
  • Is the celebrity culture of sports stars detrimental to the sport?
  • What is the best sport? Why?

Persuasive speech ideas about technology

Technology is becoming one of the most important topics in the stock market, in politics, and in our everyday lives. Here are some ideas on interesting topics to present on in tech.

  • Will cryptocurrency lead to stronger financial systems? 
  • Should private companies be allowed to use facial recognition technology?
  • Will automation hurt the economy and workforce?
  • Should we place limits on the development of AI technology?
  • Who should pay for space exploration?
  • Should AI deepfake technology be banned?
  • Can an AI be sentient?
  • Should social media companies be allowed to collect so much user data?
  • Is it ethical for scientists to develop gene editing technologies?
  • Should AI companies be allowed to impersonate well-known public figures?
  • How should tech companies handle censorship and content moderation?
  • Is it good to pursue technology-driven solutions to immortality? 
  • Has technology improved the quality of the average person's life over the last 10 years?
  • Is lab-grown meat the future of food? 
  • Should cloning be illegal?

Persuasive speech ideas about happiness

If you are going to be doing some research for this persuasive speech, you might as well learn something useful - like how to be happy! Here are some ideas on speeches about happiness:

  • Can money buy happiness?
  • Is the journey or the destination more important in being happy?
  • What are the best ways to pursue happiness?
  • Are older people happier?
  • Is happiness a better measure of a country's success than economic output?
  • Would teaching children mindfulness and mediation make them happier?
  • Is volunteering one of the best ways to be happy?
  • Does more choice lead to better decisions?
  • Would getting rid of technology make people happier?
  • is it more important to be happy or to feel satisfied?

Persuasive speech ideas about work

Workaholics rejoice! If you want to spend some quality time researching and talking about work, here are some ideas.

  • Is work life balance real? 
  • Should companies offer unpaid internships?
  • Do gig economy companies exploit their workers?
  • Should companies be allowed to ask their employees to work after hours?
  • Should companies monitor their employees' social media?
  • Is the glass ceiling real or outdated?
  • Is at-will employment a good thing for the economy?
  • Are mandatory retirement ages discriminatory?
  • Is remote work temporary or here to stay? 
  • Should companies be allowed to use IQ tests and personality tests in hiring?
  • Is outsourcing to lower cost locations ethical?
  • Should employees be compensated purely on performance?
  • Are DEI programs successful?
  • Is it ethical for CEOs to get paid 1,000x more than employees?
  • Are unions a good thing for workers?
  • Should companies be responsible for employees' mental health?
  • Would companies be more efficient with a four day workday?

Persuasive speech ideas about religion

Is it okay to talk about religion in a persuasive speech? Depends on the context, but sure! These are all about sharing your opinions and helping other people to understand your views.

what are good topics for a persuasive speech

Want to get a head start on your presentation? Here’s an example slide deck of whether churches should be classified as non-profits.

  • Should churches be classified as non-profit organizations?
  • Should religion play a role in the government?
  • Is it moral to attempt to convert others to your religious beliefs?
  • Can science and religion coexist?
  • What happens if religious beliefs conflict with laws?
  • How should religions promote interfaith dialogue?
  • How should people deal with religious extremism?
  • Is the commercialization of religious holidays bad?
  • Should religious symbols be displayed in public spaces?
  • Were any religious wars like the crusades morally justified?
  • Should governments fund religious schools?
  • Should religious groups be exempt from medical treatments or military service?

Persuasive speech ideas about animals

Here are some speech ideas if you want to talk about animals and find cute pictures of pets.

  • Should animals be used in research instead of humans?
  • Is it ethical to use animals in entertainment and agriculture? 
  • Is factory farming an unethical way to raise animals?
  • Should pet ownership be regulated?
  • Is it okay to hunt animals for sport? for subsistence?
  • How should people manage invasive species? 
  • Should people be allowed to keep exotic animals as pets?
  • Is it moral to breed animals in captivity? If the animals are endangered?
  • Should we respect cultural practices that involve the killing of animals?
  • Are animals intelligent or self-aware?
  • Should indigenous populations be exempt from laws pertaining to hunting endangered species?
  • Should puppy mills be banned?

Persuasive speech ideas about mental health

Mental health is a serious topic, and if you want to do a speech on mental health, here are some idea starters.

  • Why are so many people anxious and depressed?
  • How should we destigmatize mental illness?
  • Should we teach kids about mental health from an early age?
  • How should schools support students dealing with mental health issues?
  • Should employers give employees mental health days?
  • Why is there a crisis in loneliness and mental health?
  • Do conservatives have better mental health than liberals?
  • Could we solve homelessness and crime by focusing on mental health?
  • Should the government fund more mental health research?
  • Is technology a major driver of the decrease in mental health?
  • How can mental health be better integrated into primary care?

Funny persuasive speech ideas

If you’re looking for funny topics for a speech, you’re probably a lot more funny than the guy who is writing this blog post, but here are some ideas we came up with.

  • What is the best fast food chain?
  • What is the best Netflix reality show?
  • How many days should you wear jeans before washing them?
  • Are McFlurrys better than Blizzards?
  • Does every adult need a nap time?
  • What is the optimal sleeping temperature?
  • Who is the smartest reality TV star?
  • Are cats better than dogs?
  • Should you procrastinate?
  • Should teenagers run the government?
  • Is tea better than coffee?
  • Are night owls more intelligent?
  • Is chocolate the best food group? 
  • Does toilet paper go over or under the roll?
  • Should you shower at morning or at night?
  • Should you take your shoes off in the house? 
  • Is there evidence that the earth is flat?
  • Should we get rid of Daylight Savings Time?
  • Should dessert be the first course of every meal?

If you’re worried about coming up with an original idea for your speech, hopefully this list gives you some ideas and inspiration. If you want more inspiration, we also have ideas for informative speeches , Pecha Kucha , and PowerPoint Karaoke as well.

Once you’re ready to get started, check out Plus AI to create a first draft of your speech and slide deck!

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My Speech Class

Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

259 Interesting Speech Topics [Examples + Outlines]

Photo of author

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.

interesting speech topics

The most asked question I get almost every day from students is this:

What makes a topic interesting?

Well, the answer is simple. You have to like it yourself, the subject has to be appropriate to the rules of the assignment, to the audience and the setting of the meeting:

In this article:

How To Find An Interesting Topic

Best interesting speech topics, interesting persuasive speech topics, interesting informative speech topics, topics with outline.

1 – Look in magazines, journals, and newspapers for events.

Can We Write Your Speech?

Get your audience blown away with help from a professional speechwriter. Free proofreading and copy-editing included.

Current or historical, that does not matter at this point, both are okay – and recent engaging and exciting facts, and perhaps valuable information that attracts the attention.

Articles about subjects that interests you and that are comfortable for you to talk about are good indications.

2 – Jot down any possible idea that comes up for interesting speech topics. I always draft a short list for myself of candidate issues if I am contracted for a public speaking engagement.

And then I skip the ones that are too difficult and too complex to prepare and master in 8 to 10 minutes time.

3 – Review some online books on the subject for more detailed current information about your topic. Or go to a library and ask for books and reference articles about your subject.

Without exception, all librarians I know will help you sorting out the speechwriter subject with their advice and recommendations. For example you choose for an alluring pleasure physical activity or farming and countryside topic.

Try to understand how the author has covered it. What’s his structure? What points, information or arguments are the strongest? What examples and illustrations has she or he used?

4 – Peerless reliable statistics and new discoveries can help writing and refining.

Look for controversies, rare and strange opinions. What do you think of it? What do you want your audience to think of it?

5 – Think about related engaging interpretive hints to talk about. When you view your rough list, try to find new points, different angles of view or just turn your thoughts upside down. Look at the special aspects that surprise the listeners.

>>>  For example try these 2 more detailed summary outlines with main points and subpoints. Use my sample structure to add or otherwise wipe steps and stages you do not need.

>>>  In addition to these patterns, you find more ideas for outlined main points in my Minute Section (in the navigation menu bar right on your left of this portal page). Or move straight to sixty plus lineups for speechwriters.

That can be very enlighting for enhancing public discernment. They also can  see , feel, or even  taste  and  smell  what you try to explain or demonstrate in a couple of minutes.

6 – Look for supporting and also for opposing opinions, plus interesting speech topics statements. Add visual aids where you want to emphasize or to give some prominence to an unimaginable point in your interesting topic idea.

7 – Watch news shows, history documentaries and debating programs – for example, the morning shows and the evening news. They are especially helpful for developing a rough list of wheedling brainstorms.

Interesting Speech Topic Examples

Don’t have time to read our full list of 200+ topic ideas? Here is our list of 10 interesting speech topics.

  • Beauty is not only in the eye of the beholder
  • Children don’t play enough
  • Animal testing is necessary
  • Girls are too mean to each other
  • Men should get paternity leave
  • Tattoos are an addiction
  • If I had a year to do what I want
  • Butterflies: deadly creatures
  • How to ruin a date in the first minute
  • The meaning of dreams

Here is our list of top interesting persuasive speech topics.

  • Beauty is not only in the eye of the beholder.
  • Hyper active kids don’t need medication.
  • Books are always better than the movie.
  • Pick up lines do work.
  • Televise all court proceedings.
  • Suspend referees that are found to show too much bias.
  • There is no place for monarchs any more.
  • It is false that no one is above the law.
  • You tube needs to monitor comments.
  • Online friends show more compassion.
  • Cross cultural couples respect each other more.
  • Graffiti must be recognised as art.
  • You can loose weight without exercising.
  • Children don’t play enough.
  • Carpets are harmful and shouldn’t be in homes.
  • Sex education doesn’t work.
  • Ban smoking in all public places.
  • Women cheat just as much as men.
  • Prohibit destruction of rainforests.
  • Global warming is a myth.
  • Justice is never the same for all.
  • Video games are not the blame of violence at school.
  • Financial rewards is the only way employees stay loyal.
  • The world isn’t only black and white.
  • Give girls over 16 contraceptives without parents consent.
  • Calories should be included in restaurant menus.
  • Sugar tax won’t reduce obesity.
  • Pregnancy as a result of rape should be terminated.
  • All couples must live together before getting married.
  • Animal testing is necessary.
  • Children’s beauty pageants are wrong.
  • There are not enough cameras in public spaces.
  • Freedom of speech rights needs to be rewritten.
  • Random DUI test should be done on parents picking up children after school.
  • Atheists are more peaceful than religious people.
  • Heterosexual men and women can be just friends.
  • Adoptive parents need maternity leave too.
  • Print advertisements don’t work.
  • Click bate headlines are the cause of less followers.
  • Don’t give children allowances.
  • Stop checking in on social media.
  • There would be more divorces if couples didn’t have children.
  • Compensate organ donors.
  • Celebrities are not role models.
  • Do drug tests on welfare recipients.
  • Stem cell research is murder.
  • People should be considered adults at 21.
  • Religion is the cause of war.
  • Life was not easier a century ago.
  • Men are better forgivers.
  • Making substances illegal only makes people want them more.
  • Parenting classes must be compulsory.
  • Helicopter parents are damaging their children.
  • Give working moms special privileges.
  • Social media fame is a scam.
  • Make paparazzi photographing children a criminal offence.
  • Food should never be seen as a reward.
  • 6 hours is not enough sleep for an adult.
  • People can live without eating meat.
  • Curfews do not keep teens out of trouble.
  • Electronic textbooks don’t have the same impact as the printed version.
  • This generation cannot fix anything.
  • Boredom always leads to trouble.
  • Girls are too mean to each other.
  • Affirmative action isn’t right.
  • School system is responsible for low test scores.
  • Men should get paternity leave.
  • Fast food needs to come with more warnings.
  • Killing a murderer is immoral.
  • Famous people must stay away from politics.
  • Long distance relationships do work.
  • Men are the stronger sex.
  • Jobs shouldn’t be gender specific.
  • Religion won’t die away.
  • Women shouldn’t give birth after 40.
  • Abortion is murder.
  • Tattoos are an addiction.
  • Drug addiction is a choice.
  • Social media will run it’s course and die out.
  • Caesarian sections are safer than normal births.
  • There is a connection between science and religion.
  • Never pay children for good grades.
  • People in open marriages are not happy.
  • The soul does exist.
  • People’s salaries should reflect their performances.
  • English will always be the business language of the world.
  • Why you should always put yourself first.
  • Earth has not been explored properly.
  • Women are more intelligent than they give away.
  • Alternatives to evolution exist.
  • Prisons create criminals.
  • Sick building syndromes exist.
  • Strategic defense and ethics do not match.
  • The War on Terror is based on a hidden agenda.
  • Aging is a threat to pension funding.
  • Airline safety restrictions won’t stop terrorists.
  • Alcohol advertising stimulates underage alcohol use.
  • All humans are spiritual in one way or another.
  • Arts express the level of quality in different cultures.
  • Atheists do care about Christmas.
  • Australian aboriginal tattooing is art.
  • Ban the filibuster from Congress.
  • Body piercings can cause serious complications.
  • Books are outdated.
  • Censorship is a violation of freedom of speech.
  • Charities must minimize the organizational and overhead costs.
  • Child testimonies in abuse cases are not credible.
  • Corporal punishment could be ethical, provided that it is proportional.
  • Creative expression and creativity are not the same.
  • Electronic baby timeshare does help to prevent teen pregnancy.
  • English and Spanish should be the only languages in the world.
  • Establishing democracy in Iraq is mission impossible.
  • Fashion gurus have good reasons to promote skinny girls.
  • Female genital mutilation is not unethical when done by cosmetic surgery doctors.
  • Feminism will help improve the position of females in Africa.
  • Fill in a country … should be condemned as human rights violator.
  • Future generations have to keep their jobs until they drop.
  • George Orwell was just right when he wrote his novel ‘1984’ … Big Brother is watching us all the time.
  • Governments should not own news broadcasting corporations.
  • Granting amnesty perpetuates immigration and makes border patrols fruitless.
  • Harry Potter books are more popular among elderly persons.
  • Hollywood movies have a bad influence on the world.
  • Homelessness in rural areas is substantially undercounted compared to metropolitan and suburban areas.
  • Hospitality is a valuable instrument to better foreign relationships.
  • Houses affected by natural disasters should not be rebuilt.
  • International satellite news broadcasting poses a threat to indigenous cultures.
  • It is possible to be pro-life and pro-choice.
  • It’s a myth that bottled water is better than tap water.
  • Journalism codes are no longer respected by journalists.
  • Limiting immigration is limiting opportunities.
  • Link debt relief of developing countries to carbon emission reduction.
  • Local aid to African communities is more effective than national aid.
  • Mentally disabled people cannot be executed.
  • Motivation courses only have one objective: to fund the instructor’s bank account.
  • MP3 music belongs in the free public domain for educational institutions and the general public.
  • News programs must be interesting rather than important.
  • Open source software is better than Microsoft.
  • Parental advisory labels hinder the freedom of speech of artists.
  • People have the right to decide about their own life and death.
  • Political correctness kills freedom of speech.
  • Poverty can be cut by half in this century.
  • Princess Diana’s death was not a tragic accident.
  • Public insults should be considered as hate speech and should not be protected by the First Amendment to the Constitution.
  • Right to work laws are useless.
  • Robin Hood was a not a hero.
  • Sex and sexuality are from different hemispheres.
  • Telling lies is a justifiable instrument.
  • The local council elections in Cuba are no elections at all.
  • The right to privacy is not absolute.
  • There is no secure protection of property rights in developing countries.
  • There should be cultural content quotas in broadcasting.
  • Tobacco and alcohol billboards litter the streets.
  • United Nations will never truly exist in Europe.
  • Vegetarians would not eat vegetables if they were born in rural Africa.
  • We should have a king instead of a president.
  • Weblogs are intellectual property and therefore must be legally protected.
  • With the current economic situation, we will all be working until we are old and grey.
  • Zero tolerance is a useful instrument to prevent violence.

Here is our list of top interesting informative speech topics.

  • A comparison of the official definition of terrorism in different parts of the world.
  • A week of monastery life.
  • Abu Sayyaf links to global terror organizations.
  • Architectural movements in the late nineteenth century.
  • Armed conflicts in Africa.
  • Artificial intelligence opportunities.
  • Biochemical weapons explained.
  • Bioethics versus human rights.
  • Combatting modern slavery.
  • Debunking weight loss myths.
  • Development goals of the United Nations.
  • Everything we can find in our Solar System.
  • Five ways to give and donate to charity funds.
  • Forms of public diplomacy.
  • Fraud detection systems explained.
  • How giant sea aquariums are constructed.
  • How nepotisms started in the Middle Ages.
  • How the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is structured.
  • How the American Civil War began.
  • How the application for immigration and naturalization works.
  • How the CIA can track terrorists.
  • How to apply Feng Shui to your bedroom.
  • How to outlaw reactionary conservative groups and individuals.
  • Is it possible to clone humans?
  • Major incidents and consequences in the first decade of this millennium.
  • Middle East roadmap for peace.
  • Migration trends.
  • Offshore installation accidents over the years.
  • Racism and cultural diversity in mass media.
  • Refugees and forced displacement.
  • Result on foreign aid funding in the long term.
  • Scientific explanations for the mysteries of the Bermuda Triangle.
  • State sponsored tyranny explained.
  • The 9/11 Commission assignment and its main conclusions.
  • The best consumer electronics innovations to date.
  • The chain of cargo and freight services at international airports.
  • The difference between soft and hard drugs.
  • The effect of counter terrorism legislation on ordinary people.
  • The European convention on human rights explained.
  • The flying fortress called Air Force One.
  • The four general goals of the Homeland Security Department.
  • The functions of Samurai warriors in Ancient Japan.
  • The future of fashion.
  • The Geneva Convention on the treatment of prisoners of war.
  • The governing system of rules during the Middle Ages.
  • The history of Amtrak.
  • The innovative and unique styling of Dodge trucks.
  • The long term complications of sunburn.
  • The philosophical doctrine of Nihilism.
  • The pros and cons of pacifism.
  • The relations between federal budget deficit, national debt and trade balance.
  • The role of Emperor Akihito in Japan.
  • The secrets of crop circles revealed.
  • The short history of the second man on the Moon, Buzz Aldrin.
  • The struggle to patent computer software.
  • The war costs in Iraq and Afghanistan
  • Two party system compared multiple party systems.
  • What is acne and what are its causes.
  • Why the NASA shuttle program was stopped.
  • Why the Romans built huge aqueducts in France.
  • Venezuela and the constitutional power crisis.
  • A diamond exploration certification system will not prevent conflict-diamonds trade.
  • Handwriting analysis and how it reveals aspects of your personality.
  • Hindu Cinema: not just Bollywood movies.
  • How many disasters always happen at Christmas time.
  • How sleepwalkers perform the most unusual things while asleep.
  • Different lifestyles of generations.
  • Importance of sleeping
  • What makes me happy
  • My ideal trip to Asia
  • What would it be like to live with a famous person?
  • If I were a volcano
  • If l could the queen
  • Benefits of being a vegetarian
  • How girls worldwide are treated differently
  • History of Mainamati in Bangladesh
  • Broccoli flavored Oreos
  • The Importance of public speaking
  • A world without boundaries
  • Stars and shooting stars
  • How I came to school for the first time
  • Conspiracy theories
  • The pros and cons of being dead
  • Confusing grammar
  • When my birthday was there
  • Importance of languages
  • How to study effectively
  • If I walked backwards
  • The power of a lie
  • Power of words
  • If I was invisible
  • Why I smile
  • Fear of the unknown
  • Fashion trends I hate
  • Why do we have toes?
  • Why I want to be a lawyer (or whatever job u pick)
  • How colours affect your mood

Need a topic for your speech about an interesting persuasion statement?

Here are some of the best speech ideas and two easy informative subjects you can alter into a firm convincing claim.

Need other attracting ideas?

Check the navbar on the left and you will find thousands of special hints and tips for your public presentation 🙂

1. Whistleblower Protection Is Not Effective

  • Whistleblower laws don’t protect against reprisals, disciplinary measures and spin from superiors.
  • Huge companies have enough money to buy legal advice for a long period, laws offer employees no financial shield.
  • Legislation often doesn’t address the issue itself, the problem, the allegations often are not investigated.

Another topic for your speech on business could be on fair trade:

2. Is Fair Trade Really Fair?

  • Protectionism and markets are often stronger than fair trade appointments.
  • Buying products is subsidizing poor farmers and manufacturers in developing countries. It isn’t helping them to make them stronger.
  • It is anti-competitive and it undermines the economy in Third World nations.

And what do you think of this explosive persuasive topic for your speech?

3. Nuclear Power Is Dangerous Stuff

  • An accident could cause thousands of fatalities and for billions of dollars property damage.
  • There is no proper technology to handle radioactive waste material.
  • Health risks for people working in the plant and for those who are living nearby could not be foreseen in advance and certainly not at the long term.
  • Costs of nuclear plant safety measurements are very high.

And now two informative suggestions for a topic for your speech. But you easily transform them into some of the best speech ideas for persuasion speeches:

4. Checklist Before Taking A New Job

  • A bigger company means more interesting job and task opportunities.
  • It makes it possible to extend your existing network of trusted contacts.
  • Like to travel abroad? Is it a Yes or No?
  • How about the probability that you will keep your job – in other words what about the job security? What are the hidden clues?
  • Is there a chance you can make you professional dreams and personal goals come true?
  • How about the pay? Get all salary information, and decide on how much you want to earn from the start.
  • Are there other requirements? Some personal wishes you would like to fulfill?

5. The Advantages Of Working In The Night

  • No disturbing by telephone.
  • No traffic jam.
  • Not being awakened by the alarm clock in early morning hours …

You can think about the disadvantages too … Approach this subject from different sides and you double your opportunities!

89 Medical Speech Topic Ideas [Persuasive, Informative, Nursing]

292 Sports Speech Topics [Persuasive, Informative]

10 thoughts on “259 Interesting Speech Topics [Examples + Outlines]”

Are you in the Now?

Renewable energy pros and cons.

I want to learn the most detailed writing. Am a New student and i need to improve my own My subject is an informative one : Ivorians women teaching in Abidjan universites.

I need more topics to choose from for my oral presentation

Hello, I’d appreciate it if you’d stop perpetuating falseties about global warming and climate change. They are very much real, and putting them on a list like this only further pushes the myth that they are false. These topics are not up for debate.

Some of these are really creative.

#184 made me laugh. As someone who grew up with Harry Potter, perhaps students these days will consider me an older person ha.

Regards, Chris

thaaaank you very much this is help me a lot

Thanks for the ideas!

A lot of these “creative” topics are not only offensive but help push distructive rhetoric.

this helped me out so much.was just sitting there lost about what to speak at the academic decathlon.thanks

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50 Easy Persuasive Speech Topics

What is it that makes these EASY persuasive speech topics?

I have several pages on this site devoted to persuasive speeches, but this one is all about crafting your statement as efficiently as possible.

An EASY topic is one that...

  • You already know well.  If you know your subject thoroughly - and you don't need to spend hours researching the topic - then you'll instantly and significantly reduce your workload! Bringing your personal experiences to your speech makes it easier to write, and makes your presentation more engaging for your listeners. Try making a list of subjects you're interested in, and a topic idea may even jump out at you! 
  • You feel strongly about. There's nothing harder than trying to persuade someone they should feel a certain way about something if you're 'wishy-washy' on how you feel about it yourself! Real passion comes across in your words, which are more forceful and credible as a result.

Technically, then, an easy persuasive speech topic for one individual may not be so easy for another.

The list I have put together for you here, however, is of topics with broad appeal, subjects about which most of us have a strong opinion and PLENTY to say!

In each case, I have stated merely the topic itself - it is up to you to decide whether you will try to persuade your audience to be FOR or AGAINST the claimed idea.

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics - 1-12 Related to Schools

  • All school children should wear a uniform
  • Exams give little indication of a student's real ability
  • Advertising in schools should be banned
  • Homeschooling is better than traditional education
  • Schools should ban soda
  • Schools should not serve French fries
  • Single-sex schools are better than mixed/co-ed
  • School is not the place for sex education
  • Students should be allowed to leave school at 14 to learn a trade
  • Going to college is not the key to a prosperous future
  • All students should master a 2nd language
  • History textbooks do not tell the truth (discuss how the perception of historical events may vary around the world)

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics - 13-27 Related to Family Life

  • Breastfeeding is better than bottle (formula) feeding
  • Parents should be held legally responsible for the things their children do
  • Under 18s should be allowed to drink alcohol at home with parental consent
  • Every workplace should provide child-care
  • Encouraging women to work is destroying the traditional family
  • Punish parents who fail to give children a healthy diet
  • We are over-scheduling our kids
  • Parents should never pry into their teens' rooms/belongings
  • Today's kids have it easier than their parents/grandparents
  • Dads are more fun than moms! (Keep this light-hearted)
  • Eating together as a family is important
  • A woman's place is in the home! (This is a provocative title, so be funny or surprising in your speech)
  • Older teenagers should contribute to household expenses
  • We should value our old people rather than cast them aside
  • It takes a village to raise a child

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics - 28-36 Funny/Light Hearted Ideas

  • A Mac is better than a PC!
  • Why [fill in the blank] is the best movie ever!
  • Why everyone should visit [fill in the blank] (talk about somewhere you love)
  • Mustaches should be banned
  • Google is taking over the world
  • Santa Claus is real!
  • Games like Candy Crush are making us stupid
  • Batman is cooler than Spiderman
  • McDonald's is better than Burger King

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics - 37-50 Miscellaneous Ideas

  • Plus size people should pay for two seats on public transport
  • The government should not censor information given online
  • Love is more powerful than hate
  • Immigrants should be required to speak the language of the country to which they're moving
  • We need more female construction workers!
  • You should buy local produce whenever possible
  • What doesn't kill you makes you stronger
  • Money can't buy happiness
  • A dog is man's best friend
  • All hospitals should allow pets to be brought in to see their owners
  • Criminals should be forced to make restitution to their victims, rather than to society in general
  • Lying isn't always wrong
  • Base discipline on rewards rather than punishment
  • Facebook has improved life for many people

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Example persuasive speeches for inspiration:

Gender Selection

Energy Medicine

The Role of Marriage in Society

Fun Speech about Luck

Second-Hand Smoke

Using a Cell Phone Whilst Driving

School Uniform Policies

Become an Activist

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what are good topics for a persuasive speech

27 Persuasive Speech Topics to Captivate Your Audience

  • The Speaker Lab
  • June 13, 2024

Table of Contents

If you’ve ever written a persuasive speech, chances are you’ve struggled to choose a persuasive speech topic . It makes sense, right? You want to speak on something relevant yet unique, timely but timeless. Sometimes it feels like every good idea is already taken or too controversial. Or maybe the topic you’re considering seems too bland and won’t stir the pot enough. CEOs, entrepreneurs, authors—everyone with something important to say faces this challenge.

Well, fear not. We’ve got some fresh ideas for persuasive speech topics coming right up. These aren’t your high school debate prompts; they’re designed for individuals ready to make waves across industries and impact audiences. So if you’re on a mission to reshape perceptions and create genuine transformation, stick around.

Understanding the Power of Persuasion

Before we dive into these topics, let’s get one thing straight: understanding persuasion in speech is like having a superpower. But what makes some speeches stick with us forever? Persuasive speaking works its charm by tapping into our emotions and reasoning. It’s that perfect blend of ethos, pathos, and logos that the Greek philosopher Aristotle talked about centuries ago.

  • Ethos: This is all about credibility. If the audience trusts the speaker (you), they’re more likely to be on board with your message.
  • Pathos: Here’s where emotions come into play. The right emotional appeal can make an audience start to see things your way.
  • Logos: Logic seals the deal. A well-reasoned argument backed by solid facts? Hard to argue against that.

This trio works together to create a kind of spellbinding effect that doesn’t just persuade, but also sticks with your audience long after the talk has ended. With these three rhetorical appeals in hand, you can do more than convince; you can transform thinking and ignite action because your persuasive speech topic resonates on a deeply personal level for each listener.

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Choosing Persuasive Speech Topics That Resonate With Your Audience

Tailoring your topic to your audience isn’t just important; it’s everything when it comes to persuasion. After all, if you don’t know who you’re talking to, how will you grab their attention? Imagine chatting about quantum physics with a room full of poets or discussing poetry at a tech conference. See the mismatch? Choosing the right persuasive speech topic means finding one that resonates deeply with your listeners’ lives and experiences.

To analyze your audience effectively, you’re going to want to do a little digging ahead of time.

  • Dig into Demographics: Age, occupation, education level—these aren’t just numbers and titles; they’re clues into what might spark interest.
  • Catch the Cultural Cues: What cultural backgrounds are present in your audience? Understanding their cultural fabric can influence what makes them laugh, what they hold sacred, and even the subjects that might be touchy.
  • Tune into their Concerns: What keeps them up at night? Whether it’s climate change or personal finance, aligning your speech here can keep your audience engaged.

In essence, knowing your audience means respecting them enough to make sure they walk away feeling heard and understood rather than preached at or overlooked. And guess what? When folks feel respected and valued, they listen more closely.

Exploring Persuasive Speech Topics

Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or just starting out on your public speaking journey, choosing persuasive speech topics that resonate with audiences can feel difficult. However, knowing who’s sitting in your audience can make that decision a lot easier. Analyzing your audience ensures that your message hits home and sparks interest and debate. Consider some of the categories below as you brainstorm your speech topic.

  • Current Events and Social Issues: Hot off the press. These topics are fresh, relevant, and have everyone talking already. You’re halfway there.
  • Ethical Dilemmas and Moral Questions: Moral dilemmas offer rich soil for persuasion because they invite listeners to explore their values.
  • Technology and Innovation: Tech shapes our future every day. Discuss its impacts or ethical considerations for endless engagement.
  • Health and Wellness: This area touches everyone’s life at some point. From diet fads to healthcare policies—if it affects well-being, people want to hear about it.
  • Educational Reform and Policy Changes: Schools shape societies’ futures; thus discussions around education reforms carry weight for many listeners looking toward tomorrow’s promise.

Your chosen topic doesn’t need to be grandiose or controversial. Sometimes simplicity speaks volumes more than we give it credit for. When crafting your persuasive speech, the goal is simply to choose a topic that both informs and transforms perspectives.

Current Events and Social Issues

Diving into the realm of current events and societal debates has the power to transform a decent speech into one that lingers in memory. Why? By engaging with present-day events and societal dilemmas, we are moved, provoked, and occasionally our perspectives on life are profoundly altered.

So, let’s dive right in. Here are some persuasive speech topics that are not just timely but packed with potential to spark debate, drive change, or at least get people thinking.

  • Climate Change: It’s been talked about for years, but with wildfires raging and ice caps melting it’s a more critical topic than ever. How can we not only stop but reverse the damage?
  • Social Justice Movements: From Black Lives Matter to Stop Asian Hate, these movements have stirred conversations worldwide. In what ways are governments expected to step up and guarantee fairness among their citizens? How can each person pitch in meaningfully to support these vital movements?
  • The Tech Takeover: Technology is shaping our future, but at what cost? Let’s talk digital privacy rights or AI ethics.
  • Mental Health Awareness: With a global pandemic throwing life as we know it out of balance, mental health has taken center stage. How do we build societies that support mental wellness?

Right now, we’re smack in the middle of events that will fill history books for generations to come. Each of these topics isn’t just relevant; they’re urgent. But remember this: while diving deep into any of them could make for powerful persuasive speeches, always aim for empathy over controversy.

Ethical Dilemmas and Moral Questions

We live in an era teeming with issues ripe for debate—climate change action versus economic growth challenges; genetic engineering marvels against ethical quandaries; digital age freedoms wrestling with security needs—the list goes on. Persuasive essay topics that deal with ethical dilemmas and moral questions can be great ways to challenge your audience—and even yourself. Take a look:

  • Government Surveillance: Is it a necessary protection or an invasion of privacy?
  • Vaccine Mandates: Is it a public health safety net or a personal freedom infringement?
  • Data Privacy vs. Technological Advancement: Where do we draw the line?
  • Artificial Intelligence: Should machines have rights like humans do?

Good persuasive speeches do more than wade through facts. They spark engaging dialogues, challenge people’s beliefs, and maybe even alter their viewpoints. Exploring persuasive speech topics about ethics and morality forces us to dig deeper and frequently nudges us beyond the boundaries of our comfort zones. But here’s the kicker: they also make your speech unforgettable.

Technology and Innovation

Technology’s relentless pace has us all on our toes, wondering what’s next. As a result, it gives us plenty of persuasive speech topics to consider.

  • AI Ethics: Artifical intelligence can be a force for good, but it can also have negative outcomes, like the loss of jobs. Should it be regulated? If so, how?
  • Data Privacy: What responsibility do corporations have to consumers when it comes to data privacy? This would be a great topic to explore data and privacy rights.
  • Gene Editing: Thanks to technology like CRISPR, it’s now possible to edit genetic code. But is it ethical to edit the genes of humans, either born or unborn? How far is too far?
  • Elon’s Mars Mission: Is exploring other planets our human duty or a waste of resources?

With technology moving faster than legislation can keep up, posing these questions is vital. Without scrutiny, technology can quickly become a dangerous tool, so it’s important to spend time exploring its implications. Whether you’re prepping for your next persuasive speech or simply want to stay informed, digging into these topics is a great way to keep your audience engaged and informed.

Health and Wellness

When it comes to persuasive speech topics, health-related issues pack a punch like no other because, well, who isn’t interested in living their best life? In addition, it’s a topic that everyone can easily relate to because our well-being is something that we all think about. As far the specific issue you choose, you’ll want to look back on the research you did on your audience. Are they fitness buffs looking for the next challenge or parents concerned about family nutrition? Tailor your topic accordingly.

  • Effects of the Pandemic: Dive into how global pandemics reshape public health policies.
  • Mental Health: In what capacity is mental health affected by technology? Is social media a concern? If so, what steps should parents take to protect themselves and their children in an increasingly digital world?
  • Artificial Intelligence:  Chat about wearable tech transforming personal wellness or AI’s role in advancing healthcare solutions.
  • Educational Reform & Policy Changes: Debate the necessity of nutritional education in schools or argue for more accessible healthcare services.

Health is a great topic for persuasive speeches because if there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s wanting good health—not just for us but generations to come.

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Education Reform and Policy Changes

Schooling serves as the cornerstone for nurturing groundbreaking advancements, fostering fairness, and upholding democratic values. However, these days, many are calling for education reform . These voices challenge us to question norms, imagine new possibilities, and rally for collective action. Of course, not everyone sees eye-to-eye on what needs changing in our schools or how to do it. So before you pick one of the topics below, again, make sure you understand who you’re talking to. That’s step one towards making an impact.

  • Standardized Testing: How necessary is it and who really benefits from it?
  • Educational Funding: What is causing funding inequities between rich and poor districts? How might this be addressed? What solutions have been tried and have they worked?
  • School Curriculum: How should schools implement inclusive curriculums reflecting diverse histories and experiences?

Before change can occur, questions must be asked. By posing questions about the state of education in the U.S., you can challenge what people really know about the system in place. And who knows? You just might surprise yourself by what you find.

Exploring persuasive speech topics is the first step towards delivering a memorable speech. When you understand the power behind every word and meet your audience’s expectations, you can craft messages that resonate.

Potential topics range from current events to technology and innovation. Even ethical dilemmas can turn into a great persuasive speech when handled carefully. Similarly, speaking on health and wellness turns personal goals into universal concerns that are sure to grip your audience. Last but not least, educational reform provides plenty of room for conversation, as it’s sure to affect generations to come.

These aren’t just topics, though. When you stand before an audience next time around, remember: you’re not just delivering a speech—you’re igniting change one word at a time.

  • Last Updated: June 12, 2024

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220+ Persuasive Speech Topics For All Students (Updated 2023)

Whether you’re a student preparing for a class presentation or an aspiring public speaker looking to captivate audiences, choosing the right persuasive speech topic is crucial. However, the process can be overwhelming, with countless possibilities to consider. Fear not! In this blog, we’ll delve into the world of persuasive speech topics, unravelling a treasure trove of ideas that are both impactful and easy to understand. 

From pressing social issues to intriguing debates, we’ll explore a wide array of subjects that will not only engage your audience but also leave a lasting impression. So, let’s embark on this journey together, and unlock the power of persuasive speech!

What To Keep In Mind While Selecting Persuasive Speech Topics

When selecting persuasive speech topics, it’s important to keep several key factors in mind:

Audience Relevance

Consider the interests, beliefs, and concerns of your audience. Choose a topic that resonates with them and is relevant to their lives or the larger community.

Personal Interest

Select a topic that you are genuinely passionate about. Your enthusiasm will shine through in your speech and engage your audience more effectively.

Knowledge and Expertise

Choose a topic that you have a good understanding of or are willing to research extensively. It’s important to present accurate information and back your arguments with evidence.

Controversy and Debate

Opt for topics that have varying viewpoints or invite discussion. Controversial subjects often spark interest and encourage audience engagement.

Impactful and Timely

Consider selecting a topic that addresses a pressing issue or has societal relevance. Topics related to current events or ongoing debates can generate greater interest.

Strike a balance between being challenging and respectful. Avoid excessively sensitive or offensive topics that might alienate or upset your audience.

Feasibility

Ensure that the chosen topic can be effectively covered within the given time constraints of your speech. Select a topic that can be adequately explored and supported within the allocated time frame.

Remember, the ultimate goal of a persuasive speech is to inspire, educate, and motivate your audience. By keeping these considerations in mind, you can select a persuasive speech topic that captures attention, encourages thoughtful discourse, and leaves a lasting impact.

350+ to Take Your Skills to the Next Level

10+ Religion Persuasive Speech Topics

  • The Role of Religion in Shaping Moral Values.
  • Examining the Impact of Religious Freedom on Society.
  • Exploring the Controversy Surrounding Religion in Schools.
  • Addressing the Need for Interfaith Dialogue and Understanding.
  • Analysing the Relationship Between Religion and Science.
  • Discussing the Importance of Religious Tolerance and Acceptance.
  • The Ethics of Proselytising: Balancing Freedom of Religion and Respect for Others.
  • Investigating the Influence of Religion on Gender Equality.
  • Debating the Role of Religion in Politics and Governance.
  • Exploring the Challenges and Benefits of Religious Pluralism in a Globalised World.

10+ Persuasive Speech Topics About Music & Fashion

  • The Impact of Music on Mood and Emotions: Exploring the Power of Melody.
  • Fashion Industry’s Influence on Body Image and Self-Esteem: Redefining Beauty Standards.
  • Music Streaming Services: Revolutionising the Way We Discover and Enjoy Music.
  • The Cultural Significance of Fashion: Celebrating Diversity and Expression.
  • The Role of Music Education in Developing Creativity and Critical Thinking Skills.
  • Sustainable Fashion: Promoting Ethical and Eco-Friendly Clothing Choices.
  • Music as Therapy: Harnessing the Healing Power of Sound.
  • Fashion Trends: Unveiling the Social and Psychological Factors Behind Their Popularity.
  • The Evolution of Music Genres: Tracing the Influence of Historical and Cultural Movements.
  • Fast Fashion: Examining the Environmental and Social Consequences of Disposable Clothing.
  • Music and Memory: Exploring the Connection between Melodies and Recall.
  • Body Positivity Movement: Challenging Stereotypes and Promoting Acceptance in Fashion.

10+ Arts and Culture Persuasive Speech Topics

  • The Importance of Arts Education in Schools.
  • Preserving Cultural Heritage: The Need for Funding and Support.
  • The Power of Music Therapy: Promoting Mental Health and Well-being.
  • Addressing Gender Representation in the Film and Entertainment Industry.
  • The Role of Art in Promoting Social Change and Activism.
  • Art Censorship: Protecting Freedom of Expression and Creativity.
  • Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in the Arts and Cultural Sector.
  • Art as a Catalyst for Economic Growth and Tourism.
  • Exploring the Influence of Social Media on Art and Culture.
  • The Impact of Art on Individual and Community Identity.
  • Supporting Local Artists: Building Thriving Arts Communities.
  • The Relationship Between Art and Science: Fostering Innovation.
  • Art and Healing: The Therapeutic Benefits of Creative Expression.

10+ Government Persuasive Speech Topics

  • The Importance of Voting: Exercising Your Civic Duty.
  • Implementing Stricter Gun Control Laws for Public Safety.
  • Addressing Climate Change: The Urgency for Government Action.
  • The Need for Comprehensive Immigration Reform.
  • Promoting Equality: Ensuring LGBTQ+ Rights and Protections.
  • Combating Fake News: The Role of Government in Media Literacy.
  • Raising the Minimum Wage: Fighting Income Inequality.
  • Reforming the Criminal Justice System: Reducing Mass Incarceration.
  • Protecting Net Neutrality: Preserving an Open Internet.
  • Enhancing Access to Affordable Healthcare: A Government Responsibility.
  • Regulating Big Tech: Balancing Innovation and Consumer Protection.
  • Investing in Renewable Energy: Transitioning to a Sustainable Future.

10+ Family Persuasive Speech Topics

  • The Benefits of Family Dinners: Why Eating Together Matters.
  • Should Parents Allow Children to Use Social Media?
  • The Importance of Teaching Financial Responsibility to Kids.
  • Balancing Work and Family: Tips for Achieving Work-Life Balance.
  • The Effects of Divorce on Children and Strategies for Coping.
  • Addressing Domestic Violence: How Families Can Break the Cycle.
  • Homeschooling vs. Public Schooling: Which is the Better Option?
  • The Dangers of Helicopter Parenting and Letting Kids Fail.
  • The Impact of Technology on Family Relationships.
  • Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth in Family Environments.
  • The Pros and Cons of Having Only One Child.
  • Navigating Family Conflict: Strategies for Effective Communication.

10+ Environment Persuasive Speech Topics

  • The urgency of reducing plastic waste and embracing sustainable alternatives.
  • The impact of deforestation on climate change and biodiversity loss.
  • The need for stricter regulations on air pollution to combat respiratory diseases.
  • Promoting renewable energy sources to mitigate the effects of fossil fuel consumption.
  • The importance of water conservation in the face of increasing scarcity.
  • Addressing the detrimental effects of pesticide use on ecosystems and human health.
  • Raising awareness about the consequences of overfishing and the need for sustainable fishing practices.
  • The role of individuals and communities in combating climate change through small lifestyle changes.
  • The significance of preserving and protecting endangered species from extinction.
  • The importance of recycling and waste management in reducing environmental pollution.
  • Promoting sustainable agriculture practices to ensure food security and protect the environment.
  • The impact of urbanization on natural habitats and the importance of green spaces in cities.
  • Advocating for stricter regulations on industrial pollution to safeguard environmental and human health.
  • The benefits of promoting eco-tourism as a sustainable alternative to mass tourism.

10+ Sports Persuasive Speech Topics

  • The Importance of Physical Education Programs in Schools.
  • The Benefits of Youth Sports in Character Development.
  • The Need for Stricter Regulations in Professional Sports.
  • The Impact of Sports on Mental Health and Well-being.
  • Promoting Gender Equality in Sports: Breaking the Glass Ceiling.
  • The Dangers of Performance-Enhancing Drugs in Athletics.
  • Addressing the Issue of Concussions in Contact Sports.
  • The Role of Sports in Promoting Social Inclusion and Diversity.
  • The Influence of Sports Sponsorships on Athletes and Teams.
  • The Ethics of Animal Sports: Should They Be Banned?
  • The Debate on Paying College Athletes: Fair Compensation or Exploitation?
  • The Role of Sports in Fostering Teamwork and Leadership Skills.
  • Promoting Sports as a Tool for Conflict Resolution and Diplomacy.
  • The Impact of Technology on Sports: Enhancing Performance or Diminishing Fairness?
  • The Significance of Title IX in Advancing Women’s Sports.

10+ Education Persuasive Speech Topics

  • The importance of incorporating financial literacy in school curricula.
  • Addressing the need for comprehensive sex education in schools.
  • Promoting the benefits of arts education for well-rounded development.
  • The significance of teaching critical thinking skills in the digital age.
  • Implementing mindfulness and mental health education in schools.
  • Bridging the gender gap in STEM education and careers.
  • The value of inclusive education for students with disabilities.
  • Promoting cultural diversity and inclusivity in educational institutions.
  • Addressing the impact of standardized testing on students’ well-being.
  • The role of technology in transforming traditional classroom learning.
  • Promoting environmental education for a sustainable future.
  • Advocating for comprehensive anti-bullying policies and education in schools.
  • The benefits of bilingual education in a globalized world.
  • Encouraging physical education and healthy lifestyles in schools.

10+ Scientific Persuasive Speech Topics

  • The Importance of Vaccinations: Protecting Public Health Through Immunization.
  • Climate Change: Urgency for Global Action to Combat Rising Temperatures.
  • The Benefits of Renewable Energy Sources: Transitioning Towards a Sustainable Future.
  • Exploring the Potential of Stem Cell Research in Advancing Medical Treatments.
  • Artificial Intelligence: Balancing its Potential Benefits and Ethical Concerns.
  • The Role of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) in Addressing Food Security.
  • Space Exploration: Unraveling the Mysteries of the Universe and Expanding Human Knowledge.
  • The Impact of Plastic Pollution on Marine Ecosystems: Seeking Sustainable Solutions.
  • The Power of Meditation: Enhancing Mental Well-being and Cognitive Abilities.
  • Human Cloning: Ethical Implications and Scientific Advancements.
  • Nanotechnology: Unleashing the Potential of Tiny Innovations in Various Industries.
  • The Influence of Social Media on Mental Health: Promoting Digital Well-being.

10+ Video Games Persuasive Speech Topics

  • The Impact of Violent Video Games on Youth Behavior.
  • How Video Games Promote Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking Skills.
  • The Benefits of Video Games in Enhancing Cognitive Abilities.
  • The Role of Video Games in Fostering Social Connections and Collaboration.
  • Exploring the Educational Potential of Video Games in the Classroom.
  • Addressing Video Game Addiction: Recognizing the Signs and Seeking Help.
  • The Positive Effects of Video Games on Mental Health and Well-being.
  • Video Games as a Tool for Rehabilitation and Therapy.
  • Debunking Stereotypes: Gender Representation in Video Games.
  • The Influence of Video Games on Body Image and Self-Esteem.
  • Examining the Link Between Video Games and Increased Physical Activity.
  • The Ethical Implications of Loot Boxes and In-Game Purchases in Video Games.

10+ Public Speaking Persuasive Speech Topics

  • The Importance of Mental Health Awareness in Schools.
  • The Impact of Social Media on Society.
  • Promoting Renewable Energy for a Sustainable Future.
  • The Need for Stricter Gun Control Laws.
  • Raising Awareness about Climate Change and Its Consequences.
  • Addressing the Gender Pay Gap in the Workplace.
  • Combating Cyberbullying: Creating a Safer Online Environment.
  • The Benefits of Implementing Comprehensive Sex Education in Schools.
  • Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace.
  • The Importance of Voting: Exercising Your Democratic Rights.
  • Ending Animal Testing: Advancing Ethical Research Alternatives.
  • Tackling Food Waste: Promoting Sustainable Consumption Habits.
  • The Impact of Plastic Pollution on Marine Life and Ecosystems.
  • Encouraging Organ Donation: Saving Lives through Generosity.
  • Breaking the Stigma: Raising Awareness about Mental Illness.

10+ Medical Persuasive Speech Topics

  • The Importance of Vaccinations: Debunking Myths and Promoting Public Health.
  • The Ethics of Organ Transplantation: Balancing Supply and Demand.
  • Addressing the Opioid Crisis: Strategies for Prevention and Treatment.
  • Promoting Mental Health: Breaking the Silence and Ending Stigma.
  • Advancements in Precision Medicine: Personalizing Healthcare for Better Outcomes.
  • The Role of Telemedicine in Improving Access to Healthcare.
  • Enhancing Patient Safety: Preventing Medical Errors in Healthcare Settings.
  • Promoting Healthy Lifestyles: Combating Obesity and Chronic Diseases.
  • The Benefits of Integrative Medicine: Bridging Conventional and Alternative Approaches.
  • Exploring the Impact of Technology on Healthcare Delivery.
  • Promoting Sexual Health Education: Empowering Individuals to Make Informed Choices.
  • The Importance of Early Detection: Screenings for Cancer and Other Diseases.
  • The Role of Medical Research in Advancing Treatment and Finding Cures.

10+ Business Persuasive Speech Topics

  • The Benefits of Implementing Flexible Work Arrangements in Companies.
  • Promoting Ethical Practices in Business: Combating Corruption and Fraud.
  • The Role of Corporate Social Responsibility in Building a Positive Brand Image.
  • Fostering Innovation and Creativity in the Workplace.
  • The Advantages of Embracing Diversity in Business Teams.
  • Harnessing the Power of Technology for Enhanced Customer Experience.
  • Promoting Work-Life Balance: Improving Employee Well-being and Productivity.
  • The Importance of Effective Leadership in Driving Organizational Success.
  • Addressing Workplace Gender Inequality: Achieving Gender Balance in Leadership Roles.
  • The Benefits of Investing in Employee Training and Development Programs.
  • Promoting Sustainable Business Practices: Environmental Responsibility and Profitability.
  • Exploring the Advantages of Implementing Remote Work Policies.
  • The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Business Operations and Job Market.
  • Nurturing a Positive Company Culture: The Key to Employee Engagement and Retention.
  • The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Effective Business Communication.

10+ Mental Health Persuasive Speech Topics

  • Prioritizing Mental Health Education in Schools: Nurturing Emotional Well-being from an Early Age.
  • Overcoming the Stigma: Promoting Open Discussions on Mental Health in Communities.
  • The Need for Increased Accessibility to Mental Health Services: Breaking Barriers to Care.
  • Mental Health in the Workplace: Creating Supportive and Productive Environments.
  • Raising Awareness about Suicide Prevention: Saving Lives through Compassion and Understanding.
  • Addressing the Impact of Social Media on Mental Health: Finding Balance in the Digital Age.
  • Breaking Down Gender Stereotypes in Mental Health: Encouraging Emotional Expression for All.
  • Promoting Self-Care Practices for Mental Well-being: Nurturing a Healthy Mindset.
  • Combating Mental Health Stigma among College Students: Fostering Supportive Campus Communities.
  • The Role of Exercise and Physical Activity in Enhancing Mental Health: A Holistic Approach to Well-being.

10+ Persuasive Essay Topics About Animals

  • The Ethics of Animal Testing: Finding Alternatives for Scientific Research.
  • Protecting Endangered Species: Preserving Biodiversity for Future Generations.
  • The Cruelty of Animal Circuses: Advocating for a Ban on Animal Entertainment.
  • Animal Agriculture and Environmental Impact: Promoting Sustainable Food Choices.
  • The Importance of Animal Adoption: Encouraging Responsible Pet Ownership.
  • Ban on Trophy Hunting: Preserving Wildlife and Ecosystems.
  • Animal Rights in Entertainment: Ending the Use of Animals in Films and Shows.
  • The Ethics of Zoos: Rethinking Captivity and Animal Welfare.
  • Animal Experimentation: Promoting Ethical Guidelines and Oversight.
  • Fur Industry: Advocating for Cruelty-Free Fashion and Alternatives.
  • Marine Captivity: Ending the Keeping of Whales and Dolphins in Theme Parks.
  • The Link Between Animal Cruelty and Violence Against Humans: Strengthening Laws and Awareness.
  • Factory Farming: Promoting Humane Treatment of Farm Animals.
  • The Role of Animal-Assisted Therapy in Improving Human Well-being.
  • Wildlife Conservation: Combating Illegal Wildlife Trade and Poaching.

10+ Persuasive Speech Topics for College

  • The Benefits of Financial Literacy Education for College Students.
  • Promoting Mental Health Support Services on College Campuses.
  • Addressing the Issue of Campus Sexual Assault: Ensuring Safety and Justice.
  • The Importance of Ethical Consumption: Making Sustainable Choices in College.
  • Encouraging Diversity in Higher Education: Embracing Inclusion on Campus.
  • Combatting the Rising Costs of College Education: Exploring Solutions for Affordability.
  • Promoting Healthy Lifestyles: Encouraging Exercise and Nutrition in College.
  • The Need for Comprehensive Sexual Consent Education in College.
  • Fostering Entrepreneurship and Innovation in College Education.
  • Empowering Students to Combat Fake News: Promoting Media Literacy on Campus.

10+ Unique Persuasive Topics

  • The Power of Empathy: Cultivating Compassion in Everyday Life.
  • Promoting Mindfulness: Finding Balance in a Fast-Paced World.
  • The Benefits of Outdoor Education: Nurturing a Connection with Nature.
  • Exploring the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence in the Modern Age.
  • Building Stronger Communities through Volunteerism and Civic Engagement.
  • The Importance of Financial Literacy: Empowering Individuals for a Secure Future.
  • Unveiling the Truth: The Role of Media Literacy in an Era of Misinformation.
  • Redefining Beauty Standards: Embracing Body Positivity and Self-Acceptance.
  • Harnessing the Power of Positive Thinking: Cultivating a Growth Mindset.
  • The Impact of Arts Education: Fostering Creativity and Well-Being in Schools.

10+ Economic Persuasive Speech Topics

  • The Benefits of Implementing Universal Basic Income.
  • Exploring the Impact of Globalization on Job Markets.
  • Addressing Income Inequality: Closing the Wage Gap.
  • The Role of Government Regulation in Promoting Fair Competition.
  • Promoting Sustainable Economic Growth through Green Initiatives.
  • The Importance of Financial Literacy Education in Schools.
  • Exploring the Pros and Cons of Minimum Wage Increases.
  • The Impact of Automation on the Future of the Workforce.
  • The Economic Benefits of Investing in Renewable Energy.
  • Examining the Effects of Trade Wars on Global Economies.
  • The Role of Entrepreneurship in Stimulating Economic Development.
  • Analyzing the Economic Implications of Immigration Policies.
  • The Significance of Economic Diplomacy in International Relations.
  • The Influence of Consumer Behavior on the Economy.
  • Exploring the Economics of Healthcare: Challenges and Solutions.

10+ Ethics Persuasive Speech Topics

  • The Ethical Implications of Artificial Intelligence in Today’s Society.
  • Animal Rights: Promoting Ethical Treatment and Protection.
  • Ethical Considerations in Genetic Engineering and Human Enhancement.
  • The Ethics of Capital Punishment: Examining the Death Penalty.
  • The Moral Dilemma of Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide.
  • Ethical Issues Surrounding Privacy and Data Protection in the Digital Age.
  • Corporate Social Responsibility: Ethical Business Practices for a Sustainable Future.
  • Ethical Implications of Cloning and Genetic Manipulation.
  • The Ethics of Animal Testing: Balancing Scientific Progress and Animal Welfare.
  • Ethical Considerations in Medical Research: Informed Consent and Participant Rights.
  • The Ethics of Privacy Invasion: Surveillance in the Name of Security.
  • Ethical Challenges in the Age of Big Data and Data Mining.
  • The Moral Debate of Physician-Assisted Death and End-of-Life Care.
  • Ethical Implications of Human Trafficking: Combating Modern-Day Slavery.
  • Ethical Issues in Globalization: Balancing Economic Growth and Social Justice.

How To Craft Persuasive Speech?

IntroductionGrab the audience’s attention, establish credibility, and present the topic and main argument.
HookUse a compelling anecdote, startling statistic, or thought-provoking question to engage the audience from the start.
Thesis StatementClearly state the main argument or position you will be advocating throughout the speech.
BodyPresent supporting arguments, evidence, and examples to convince the audience of your viewpoint.
Main Argument 1Present the first strong argument supporting your thesis statement.
Supporting EvidenceProvide facts, statistics, research findings, or expert opinions to back up your main argument.
ExamplesUse relevant and relatable examples to illustrate the real-life implications of your argument.
Counter ArgumentsAddress potential opposing viewpoints and refute them with logical reasoning and evidence.
Main Argument 2Present the second strong argument supporting your thesis statement.
Supporting EvidenceProvide additional facts, statistics, or examples to support your second main argument.
Visual AidsUse visual aids such as charts, graphs, or images to enhance understanding and engagement.
Emotional AppealConnect with the audience’s emotions through personal stories, testimonials, or vivid language.
ConclusionSummarize the main arguments, restate the thesis statement, and leave the audience with a memorable closing statement.
Call to ActionEncourage the audience to take a specific action or adopt a particular viewpoint as a result of your speech.
Closing StatementEnd with a powerful, thought-provoking statement that leaves a lasting impression on the audience.

Remember, this is just a template, and you can modify and adapt it according to your specific speech topic and requirements.

An Example Of Persuasive Speech Topic

Title: the importance of volunteering in our community.

Introduction:

Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen,

Today, I stand before you to shed light on a topic that is close to my heart: the importance of volunteering in our community. We often get caught up in the busyness of our lives, but it is crucial to take a step back and recognize the profound impact we can have when we extend a helping hand. Through volunteering, we not only improve the lives of others but also enrich our own. Let’s explore how giving our time, skills, and compassion can make a lasting difference in our community.

Building Stronger Communities:

Volunteering fosters a sense of belonging and strengthens the fabric of our community. By working together towards a common goal, we forge meaningful connections and create a support system that benefits everyone involved. Whether it’s cleaning up local parks, organizing food drives, or mentoring youth, our collective efforts can transform neighborhoods and create a positive ripple effect.

Making a Difference in Individual Lives:

Each act of volunteering has the power to touch someone’s life in ways we may never fully comprehend. From offering a listening ear at a homeless shelter to tutoring underprivileged children, we have the ability to empower and uplift individuals facing adversity. Our actions can instill hope, provide opportunities, and inspire others to believe in their own potential.

Personal Growth and Development:

Volunteering is not just about giving; it is also an incredible avenue for personal growth. As we step outside our comfort zones and engage with diverse communities, we develop empathy, compassion, and a broader perspective on life. Volunteering allows us to hone our skills, learn new ones, and build a strong sense of self-esteem. It is an investment in ourselves that pays dividends in personal and professional spheres.

Addressing Social Issues:

Our community faces numerous social challenges, from poverty to environmental degradation. Through volunteering, we become agents of change, actively working to address these pressing issues. By dedicating our time and resources to organizations and causes that align with our values, we contribute to the collective efforts of creating a more equitable and sustainable world.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, ladies and gentlemen, volunteering is not a mere act of kindness; it is a transformative force that can shape our community and ourselves. By embracing the spirit of giving, we build stronger communities, make a profound impact on individual lives, experience personal growth, and contribute to solving societal issues. I urge each one of you to find a cause that resonates with you, explore volunteering opportunities, and embark on this incredible journey of service. Together, let’s make a lasting difference in our community, one selfless act at a time.

In conclusion, persuasive speech topics hold immense power to shape opinions, provoke critical thinking, and inspire action. Throughout this blog, we have explored a wide range of persuasive speech topics, covering social issues, ethics, and public speaking. 

Remember that when selecting a persuasive speech topic, it is crucial to consider the audience’s relevance, your personal interest, and the potential impact of the topic. Crafting a persuasive speech involves engaging the audience through a compelling introduction, presenting well-supported arguments, addressing counter arguments, and concluding with a strong call to action. 

By utilizing these techniques, you can effectively deliver a persuasive speech that leaves a lasting impression and drives positive change. So, embrace the art of persuasive communication, be the voice of change, and make your words resonate in the hearts and minds of your audience. 

Together, let’s harness the power of persuasive speech to create a better, more informed, and compassionate world.

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what are good topics for a persuasive speech

125+ Persuasive Speech Topics To Amaze Your Audience

what are good topics for a persuasive speech

Reviewed by:

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 5/31/24

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

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

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

Keep reading for 125+ persuasive speech topics.

125+ Topics for a Persuasive Speech

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

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

1. Arts & Culture

Art and culture are always hot topics among individuals and groups. There are many interesting arguments and stances on both topics, and many people have strong opinions about them. 

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

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

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

2. Economics

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

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

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

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

3. Education

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

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

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

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

4. Environment

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Politics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Technology

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

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

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

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

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

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

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

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

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

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

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

Components of a Great Persuasive Speech Topic

Let's take a look at the key components that make up a great persuasive speech topic.

Timeliness and Relevance

Consider what's on people's minds right now. Your topic should be something they care about, whether it's in the news or a long-standing issue. It needs to feel important and connected to their lives. Picking a timely and relevant topic grabs your audience's attention and makes them more interested in what you have to say.

When choosing a topic, aim for something that has layers to it. Controversial topics or ones with lots of different opinions are good because they make people think. By exploring all the different angles of your topic, you can make your speech more engaging and show that you understand it well.

In today's world, facts matter more than ever. It's not enough to simply state your opinion; you need to back it up with solid evidence. Rely on numbers, data, and information from reliable sources to support what you're saying. When you do this, people trust you more and are more likely to believe what you're saying.

Personal Connection

Passion is a powerful tool in persuasion - so choose a topic that you truly care about. Passion is evident in your speech and ultimately makes it more interesting. Your enthusiasm rubs off on the audience, and they're more likely to pay attention. Feeling connected to your topic makes your speech more powerful and convincing.

How to Create a Compelling Persuasive Speech 

Let's delve into the process of creating a compelling persuasive speech.

Understanding Your Audience

Before diving into your speech, take the time to understand your audience. What motivates them? What are their goals and values? Tailoring your message to resonate with their interests and concerns will greatly enhance its impact.

Focus on Key Goals

Keep your speech focused by selecting just one to three key goals to address. Trying to cover too much ground can overwhelm your audience and dilute your message. Instead, hone in on the most important points you want to convey.

Address Objections Head-On

Anticipate objections that your audience might have and incorporate them into your speech. Acknowledging and addressing these concerns demonstrates empathy and builds credibility, making your argument more persuasive.

Start with a Compelling Story

Capture your audience's attention from the outset by starting with a compelling story. Make it relatable and relevant to your message to draw listeners in and set the tone for the rest of your speech.

Practice, Practice, Practice

The key to delivering a persuasive speech with confidence is practice. Rehearse your speech until you know it inside and out, focusing on the flow of your ideas rather than memorizing every word. This will allow you to speak naturally and authentically.

Maintain Eye Contact

Engage your audience by maintaining eye contact throughout your speech. This creates a connection and keeps listeners attentive and engaged. Don't just stare at one person; instead, scan the room and make brief eye contact with various individuals.

Reinforce Your Points with Repetition

Repetition is a powerful tool for reinforcing your message. After explaining each key point, circle back and reiterate it to drive it home. This helps ensure that your audience remembers and internalizes your main ideas.

Leave a lasting impression by ending your speech with a strong closing statement. Summarize your key points and reiterate your main message with conviction. This final flourish will leave your audience inspired and motivated.

Embrace Feedback

Be open to feedback from your audience, and graciously accept both praise and criticism. Use feedback as an opportunity to refine your message and improve your delivery. By embracing feedback, you can continuously hone your persuasive skills and become an even more effective communicator.

After reading through all the possible topics you can write a persuasive speech on, you may still have some questions before you get going. Let’s get into them.

1. What Are Some Easy Persuasive Topics?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Final Thoughts

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

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

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what are good topics for a persuasive speech

49 Persuasive Speech Topics You’ll Actually Want to Talk About

One of your worst nightmares comes true: public speaking.

Your next speech is due within days, and you imagine yourself standing in front of the class, shaking uncontrollably, and suddenly unable to remember anything you’re supposed to say.

Your professor seems even more intimidating than usual. He stares at you over the top of his reading glasses, his eyes burning a hole through your soul.

This isn’t going to end well. You fumble through a few hastily scribbled note cards and begin to speak. Your assigned seven-minute speech runs barely four as the words fly from your mouth at record pace.

It doesn’t have to be this way.

If you start with a strong speech topic that you’re actually excited to talk about and spend enough time planning, things can go a lot more smoothly.

While I certainly can’t promise that by planning you won’t feel your heart pounding out of your chest as you approach the podium, I can help you find an interesting topic for your persuasive speech. I can also help you feel more confident about the information you’ll be delivering.

Let’s begin by finding a topic for your persuasive speech.

49 Persuasive Speech Topics

I’ve divided this list of 49 topics into seven categories. I’ve also included links to sample persuasive speech outlines, persuasive essays , and argumentative essays to give you a few ideas of how you might develop ideas for your persuasive speech.

Persuasive speech topics about technology

persuasive speech topics

  • Can virtual currency replace central banking systems?
  • Should parents monitor their children’s online activity ?
  • Does technology benefit education ?
  • Should children spend less time on electronic devices ?
  • Can smartphones create an addiction to technology ?
  • Does technology harm one’s mental health ?
  • Are law enforcement cameras an invasion of privacy?

Persuasive speech topics about health, community, and well-being

persuasive speech topics

  • Are college students facing increasing amounts of stress ?
  • Should people consider organ donation ?
  • Is service-based learning important?
  • Should health awareness strategies be implemented in communities?
  • Does genetically modified food cause health problems?
  • Should fast food be banned from public schools?
  • Should junk food be taxed ?

Persuasive speech topics about animals

persuasive speech topics

  • Are pitbulls a misunderstood dog breed?
  • Should people purchase products tested on animals ?
  • Should people be required to spay and neuter their pets ?
  • Is animal testing necessary in medical research?
  • Should students be allowed to bring pets to college ?
  • Do animals have souls ?
  • Should animals be kept in zoos ?

Persuasive speech topics about the environment

persuasive speech topics

  • Should people use less plastic in their daily lives?
  • Is food waste harming humans and the environment?
  • Does it really matter if people litter occasionally?
  • Should the government do more to support renewable energy ?
  • Is the meat industry ruining the environment?
  • Does the automobile industry need to be more environmentally friendly?
  • Is overpopulation harming the environment?

Persuasive speech topics about politics

persuasive speech topics

  • Does one person’s vote make a difference?
  • Does the rhetoric used by politicians actually convince voters?
  • Should the Electoral College be abolished?
  • Does religion influence political ideology ?
  • Why are American politics so polarized ?
  • Should voting be compulsory in the United States?
  • Are campaign finance reforms necessary?

Persuasive speech topics about education

persuasive speech topics

  • Do private schools offer a better education than public schools?
  • Are core classes (like speech and English) an important component of a college education?
  • Should college be tuition-free ?
  • Are college students sleep deprived?
  • Should homework be required in elementary schools?
  • Should sex education be taught in schools?
  • Is a college education necessary?

Persuasive speech topics that are a little off the beaten path

persuasive speech topics

  • Can a good manicure or a good haircut change your life?
  • Is it important take a vacation with your significant other before deciding to marry him/her?
  • Can autocorrect ruin your relationship ?
  • Should you ever go on a blind date?
  • Are our pets smarter than us ?
  • Do you deserve an A in the class?
  • Should yoga pants only be worn to yoga class ?

5 Quick Tips for Planning and Writing a Persuasive Speech

persuasive speech topics

Once you’ve found the perfect topic for your persuasive speech, it’s time to start planning.

I know it can be tempting to wing it, but trust me, if you actually plan your speech, you’ll not only feel less nervous about speaking in front of the class but also be more likely to get a better grade. (And who doesn’t want that, right?)

With that in mind, take a look at these five tips to help you plan your persuasive speech.

Know whether you need to include research

While some assignments may allow you to deliver a persuasive speech using only your opinions as evidence, others will require you to use credible sources as evidence . (If you’re not sure, check your assignment guidelines .)

Know your time limit

You’ll need a heckuva lot more content for a ten-minute speech than you will for a three-minute speech, so plan accordingly.

Outline your ideas

Even though you likely won’t write your speech word for word, don’t underestimate the power of a solid outline. In some cases, your prof will let you use an outline when you deliver your speech, so a strong outline will make delivering your speech that much easier.

Prepare visuals

Before you actually start planning any type of visuals, make sure you know what types of visuals are allowed (or required). Can you get away with a colorful poster board? Should you bring props? Are you required to create a slideshow?

No matter what type of visuals you create, make sure they’re clear, specific, and complete. (If you’d like a few tips on preparing slideshows, check out this link .)

Practice, practice, practice

Once you have your research, outline, and visuals complete, it’s time to rehearse your speech.

Yes, it really is important to practice. You wouldn’t think of stepping foot on the football or soccer field without practicing, so why would you present a speech without practicing?

Practicing your speech can help you see where information doesn’t flow smoothly or where your arguments may be weak or illogical . It can also help you work on timing. (Remember, you sometimes talk more quickly when you’re nervous, so even though you may think you have seven minutes worth of content, you may end up with only five.)

Worried that you don’t have an audience? Ask a friend, roommate, your mom, your significant other, or even your cat to be your audience.

If you’d prefer to practice without an audience, deliver your speech in front of a mirror or set up your phone and record your practice runs.

Recording yourself can help you work on your content as well as your delivery because you can see whether you fidget nervously, look down at your notes too much, or mumble through the entire speech.

Afraid No One Will Want to Listen?

persuasive speech topics

By now you should have a great topic that you want to talk about, but maybe you’re still worried that no one will want to listen to what you have to say.

Polish up your outline or your speech draft, and let one of the experts at Kibin make sure you’re on the right track. We’ll provide honest feedback about your persuasive abilities and help you make sure your audience will be on the edge of their seats.

what are good topics for a persuasive speech

Psst... 98% of Kibin users report better grades! Get inspiration from over 500,000 example essays .

what are good topics for a persuasive speech

About the Author

Susan M. Inez is a professor of English and writing goddess based out of the Northeast. In addition to a BA in English Education, an MA in Composition, and an MS in Education, Susan has 20 years of experience teaching courses on composition, writing in the professions, literature, and more. She also served as co-director of a campus writing center for 2 years.

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50 Topics for a Persuasive Speech

50 Topics for a Persuasive Speech

5-minute read

  • 13th January 2023

Some find writing a persuasive speech to be intimidating, but it’s an opportunity to share your position on a topic you care about and to invite listeners to support (or at least appreciate) your way of thinking. You’ll benefit from a clear position, credible evidence, and careful consideration of your audience.

Your first step is to pick a topic. Whether you’re a teacher creating an assignment or a student deciding what to speak about, our list of 50 suggested persuasive speech topics and tips are a good starting place.

Choosing a Topic

●  It’s more enjoyable to research and write a speech about a topic that genuinely holds your interest. It’ll make for better delivery, too. Passion is contagious! On the other hand, boredom and a lack of enthusiasm come through easily in vocal tone.

●  Avoid tired, overdone issues. If you’ve heard it all before, there’s a good chance your audience has, too. Pick something current and relevant to your listeners . If you go with a popular topic, try to approach it from a fresh angle.

●  Issues that contain multiple viewpoints are preferable to simplistic good/bad debates. Most reasonable people would agree that “bullying is bad.” But they might learn something new if you share recent research on bullying and offer different approaches to tackling it.

Let’s look at some interesting speech topics, categorized by subject.

Should free speech on the internet be restricted?

At what age should children have access to smartphones?

Does texting hinder interpersonal skills?

Should parents limit their children’s screen time?

Should laws prohibit using devices while driving?

Is there a link between device usage and decreased mental health?

Should the number of US Supreme Court Justices be increased?

Should voting be compulsory?

Should Election Day in the US change from Tuesday to the weekend?

Should the electoral college system be abolished?

Should election procedures be standardized in all states?

Should the Senate filibuster be abolished?

Should the death penalty be legal?

Should states be allowed to have different abortion laws?

Should the legal age to own an assault rifle be raised?

Should the US conduct a voluntary gun buyback program?

Are governments doing enough to address climate change?

Is student loan forgiveness fair?

Should the US invest in high-speed rail similar to those in Japan and Europe?

Should plastic bags be banned in grocery stores?

What is the greatest threat to international stability?

What can be done to prevent cyber threats?

Is the two-party political system of the US failing?

Should the US adopt a single-payer universal health care system?

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Should minimum wage be a factor in the cost of health care?

Is healthcare a human right?

Should access to abortion be required by healthcare providers?

Do school shooter drills damage students’ mental health?

Should vaccinations be required for students to attend public school?

Should employers offer incentives and bonuses to employees who bike or walk to work?

Do school uniforms offer any advantages?

Are school dress codes gender biased?

Are standardized test scores given too much importance in schools?

Do college entrance exams privilege those with higher socio-economic status?

Should teachers be allowed to keep firearms in their classrooms as protection against active shooters?

Should indigenous languages be taught in schools?

Should immigrants have access to free language classes?

Should books ever be banned in schools?

Should elementary schools be required to teach a foreign language?

Should schools be cellphone free?

Should volunteering before graduation be compulsory?

Should school cafeterias serve more plant-based foods?

Should parents let their children play tackle football?

Should college sports teams receive less money?

Should there be more female priests or pastors of churches?

Should churches and other religious organizations pay taxes?

Should all priests be allowed to marry?

Should prayer be permitted in public schools?

On balance, does religion create more conflict or foster peace?

Should there be exceptions to the freedom to practice any religion?

Persuasion Isn’t All or Nothing

People often think persuasion means getting others to agree with you, but persuasion is more nuanced than that. You might persuade someone to go beyond sympathy and act. You might highlight the gray areas of a typically black and white debate.

When total agreement is out of reach, you can settle for agreement in part. Consider your audience thoughtfully when you decide on your goals and remember that you have options.

Step Up with Confidence

We hope these suggested persuasive speech topics have the wheels of your mind turning. Whether it’s for a speech or an argumentative essay , getting your ideas on paper and editing them is a necessary part of the process. Our editors are here to help you confidently put out your best work. Submit a free sample today .

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The Admissions Strategist

191 best persuasive speech topics: give an amazing speech.

Does the thought of public speaking make you cringe?

While almost everyone experiences some stage fright speaking in front of an audience, there are ways to tame this debilitating fear.

Half the battle of giving a speech is selecting a topic that engages your audience.

For any speech, whether informative or persuasive, your speech idea should meet these criteria:

  • Well-researched with solid examples and evidence
  • Broad enough to be universal, narrow enough to be original
  • Meaningful and customized to your audience

Additionally, you should possess a measure of expertise on your topic.

Understanding the nuances of what you are speaking about is a sure way to ease those jitters. This is how you come up with the best speech idea.

When choosing a persuasive speech topic, all of the above criteria apply, along with a few additional requirements.

191 Best Persuasive Speech Topics

Click above to watch a video on Speech Topics.

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

While an informative speech merely presents factual information, a good informative speech topic goes a step further.

  • The goal of a persuasive speech is to convince the audience that your perspective is valid.

This does not mean that the audience will agree with every opinion you present, but a good persuasive speech makes the audience think* .

A great persuasive speech makes an audience act.

As transcendentalist writer Ralph Waldo Emerson said: “Speech is power: speech is to persuade, to convert, to compel.”

Therefore, a strong persuasive speaker will:

  • Present a clear and sincere perspective. The audience should not be questioning your stance on an issue.
  • Exhibit passion that inspires others to think or act.
  • Be confident in both your perspective and topic.

Not all persuasive speeches need to be deeply controversial, but there should be some gray area in your chosen topic.

Political , social and ethical issues make compelling persuasive speech topics for this reason.

The persuasive speech should address a burning question that incites intellectual debate:

  • Should strict gun control laws be implemented?
  • Is it possible to be an animal lover and a carnivore?
  • Is the government at fault for the increasing homeless population?

Such questions may seem divisive, but, in a civilized society, they are essential to ask.

Posing such questions directly to your audience during your speech engages a group in the Socratic Method of critical thinking.

Furthermore, if a topic isn’t inherently controversial, then it might not make the most powerful speech.

Your job as a persuasive speaker is to argue your point, which is not necessary to do on topics that most people agree on.

In that vein, here are a handful of topics that would not make for good persuasive speeches.

  • Learning a foreign language is important.
  • Fighting in overseas wars can be dangerous.
  • Social Security income is not sufficient for many retired Americans.
  • Technical skills are crucial in the 21st-century job market.
  • Cardiovascular fitness improves longevity.

…And you get the picture. So, what does make a good persuasive speech topic? Well, there are at least 191 answers to that question.

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191 best persuasive speech topics.

Before we reveal the 191 best persuasive speech topics, let’s preview each of the categories:

  • Politics and law : This topic revolves around pressing issues including voting, Supreme Court decisions, political leadership, and criminal justice.
  • Environmental activism : Climate change, offshore oil drilling, and green technology are just a few of the hot-button issues you’ll discover in this category.
  • Social justice : Covering all issues of equality, social justice topics invite debate – and demand solid supporting facts or powerhouse emotional appeals .
  • Ethics : Comprising our basic morals and values that drive our behaviors, the ethics category examines how to deal with issues like animal abuse, abortion, and stem cell research.
  • Health : Regarding important issues like our food supply, how should we best protect and promote human health in the 21 st century?
  • Potpourri : And now we come to the miscellaneous category of “everything else.” You’ll find engaging or even entertaining ideas related to music, movies, curriculum, and more.

Take a deep breath and read on!

Politics and Law

  • Alternative political parties (i.e., Green Party, Libertarian Party, etc.)
  • Declaring “Independent” or “No Party Affiliation” on voter registration.
  • Should voters with no party affiliation be allowed to vote in primary elections?
  • Are newly proposed voter registration laws discriminatory?
  • How many terms should politicians be allowed to serve?
  • Popular vote vs. Electoral College
  • Are women underrepresented in Congress?
  • Swing states (i.e., Florida and Ohio)
  • Do current proposed abortion laws violate Roe v. Wade?
  • Political correctness versus freedom of speech
  • Terrorist watch lists – safety precaution or blatant prejudice?
  • Corporate lobbyists and campaign contributions
  • Are laws too lenient on violent criminals?
  • Tax responsibility: income tax, property tax, sales tax.
  • Should the voting age be increased or decreased?
  • Capital punishment: right or wrong?
  • DNA evidence in criminal cases: is it enough?
  • Should criminal minors be prosecuted and sentenced as adults?
  • How to deal with the issue of illegal immigration
  • Should cigarettes be taken off the market and made illegal?
  • Legalization of Marijuana
  • Should health insurance be mandatory by law?
  • Is the death penalty obsolete?
  • Private vs. Public Prisons
  • Should politicians be allowed to use private donations to campaign?
  • Is it right for the government to fund partisan organizations?
  • Appointment of Supreme Court Justice
  • How can the mass shooting crisis be solved?
  • Minimum wage: should it exist or be forgotten?
  • Should citizens be required to serve in the military for a period of time?
  • Gun rights on school campuses: is it safe?
  • Military members and income tax

Environmental Activism

  • Hybrid and electric cars on the road
  • Oil spills and world wildlife
  • Saving rainforests and their indigenous species
  • Palm oil: should it be outlawed?
  • Make all bills and business correspondence paperless.
  • Dangers of drilling for oil
  • Replacing plastic with glass and cardboard
  • Trophy hunting: should the penalties be harsher?
  • Banning disposable diapers in favor of cloth diapers
  • Benefits of public transportation, biking, walking, or carpooling
  • Conserving water in our everyday lives
  • Wildfires on the rise in California
  • Greenhouse gas emissions in Asia
  • Global climate change and increased severity of storms
  • Growing food as a homesteader
  • Impact of big box stores on the environment
  • Impact of online retailers’ packaging and shipping on the environment
  • Turning the practice of recycling into a law punishable by hefty fines
  • Overfishing and dwindling populations of marine wildlife
  • Factory farms and greenhouse gas emissions
  • Controlling E. Coli and other food borne illnesses
  • Are is worth it to ban plastic straws?
  • Drones and the environment
  • Should hunting be outlawed in national parks to protect its wildlife?
  • Hair care and air quality
  • Better education for at home waste management
  • Should it be illegal to flush certain things into the sewage system?
  • Is it right to cut down a tree for the holidays?
  • How do marijuana farms affect the surrounding area’s environment?
  • Water contamination: What preventative measures can be taken?
  • How to reduce your carbon footprint
  • Should new homes support solar energy only?
  • Organic farming practices

Social Justice

  • Do you agree with the research on equal pay between men and women?
  • Should government employees go without pay during a shutdown?
  • Police brutality and shootings (in general or a specific case in the news such as Philando Castile in Minnesota)
  • Should all policemen wear body cameras?
  • Is racial discrimination on the rise? Why or why not?
  • Scholarship opportunities for minority students
  • The benefits (or challenges) of a multicultural society
  • Should bullies be expelled from school?
  • What can be done about anonymous online bullying?
  • Unrealistic beauty/body standards and self-image
  • How to create a strong community
  • Welfare, SNAP, and other social assistance programs
  • The 40-hour work week is too long.
  • Comparing the work week in Europe to the work week in the United States
  • Caring for an aging population: are Social Security and Medicare enough?
  • Civil lawsuits should not receive so much attention in the media.
  • Racial and ethnic profiling (including FBI criminal profiling)
  • Being a foster or adoptive parent
  • Buying local builds up the community.
  • Refusing to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance
  • Battling stereotypes and making them obsolete
  • Mandatory community service for all U.S. citizens
  • Is common law marriage outdated?
  • Should companies be allowed to deny service to anyone?
  • Changing gender on a driver’s license
  • Affirmative Action today
  • DACA DREAMers Movement
  • Legalization of gay marriage
  • Should individuals be allowed to adopt?
  • Re-sentencing for crimes involving marijuana in states where it is now legal
  • Unlimited Paid Time Off vs Accrued time off
  • License revoking for older drivers: is it against their rights?
  • Wearing fur or using fur for any profit
  • Mistreatment of farm animals: what is the solution?
  • How do we address the increasing problem of homelessness?
  • Tithing – how much should each person give?
  • Euthanasia for terminally ill individuals
  • Was it right for Dr. Kevorkian (assisted suicide physician) to be imprisoned?
  • Pet shops and breeders versus shelters
  • Returning or rehoming pets: is it right?
  • Preselecting the gender and other aspects of an unborn baby
  • Abortion: pro-choice or pro-life?
  • Product testing on animals in labs
  • Stem cell research
  • Protecting children from inappropriate websites
  • When should a child be allowed to have a smartphone?
  • Should children be allowed into an R-rated movie even with a guardian?
  • Should violent movies and video games be banned?
  • Do zoos and circuses abuse animals?
  • Arranged marriage: a cultural tradition or outdated practice?
  • Raising children without being married
  • How to impart ethical behavior to the next generation
  • Ethics as a mandatory high school class
  • Do parents deceive children by telling tales of Santa Claus?
  • Should pharmaceutical patents be removed so affordable generics can be made?
  • 13 Reasons Why: Did it glorify suicide?
  • Wrongful termination case study
  • Is the borrowing limit for student loans too high?
  • Pay for play in college athletics
  • Performance enhancing steroids in competitive sports
  • Is it right to own a gun for personal protection?
  • Mandated reporting (Mandated reporters are individuals who are required to report any information they receive about abuse, suicidal ideation, etc.)
  • Can an influencer be held responsible if they promote a harmful product unknowingly?
  • Conventional versus organic produce
  • Food additives, preservatives, and cancer rates
  • Meat consumption and its effects on life expectancy
  • Dangers of sitting at a desk all day
  • Fast food industry and obesity rates
  • Medical marijuana to treat chronic conditions
  • GMOs (Genetically Modified Organisms) in foods: to label or not to label?
  • Mandatory CPR and First Aid training for new parents
  • School cafeteria food and children’s health
  • Alternative uses of oral contraceptives
  • Restaurant responsibility with peanut, gluten, and other allergies
  • Everyday products that could be dangerous: deodorant, toothpaste, etc.
  • Teaching yoga and meditation in public schools
  • Moving from the “medical model” to holistic health
  • Massages as necessities rather than luxuries
  • Which vitamin supplements are worthless and should go off the market?
  • The mind-body connection and its influence on health
  • Social media and mental health
  • The cumulative effects of poor sleep (and how electronics impact our sleep)
  • IVF (Invitro fertilization): Should becoming a parent be covered?
  • Should there be more physical education in schools?
  • Is diabetes reversible?
  • Doctors and insurance: should they accept all insurance?
  • Do detox diets really work?
  • Is binge-watching Netflix bad for our health?
  • Keto vs Paleo vs Vegan: which is better?
  • Should a patient be allowed to deny medical care?
  • Pre-existing conditions and insurance rates
  • Employers should offer mental health days without question
  • Alternative sex education (not abstinence-only and inclusive of LGBT lifestyle)
  • Mind-body fitness versus traditional Western sports
  • Best genre and time period of music
  • Healthiest world cuisine
  • Uneven distribution of wealth: the top 1% versus everyone else
  • Cost of living versus average salaries
  • What to do about cults, gangs, and similar groups
  • How to get accepted into an Ivy League school
  • Religion versus spiritualism
  • Survival skills should be taught in school.
  • Benefits of forest schools for children
  • The best U.S. President in history
  • The most influential leader or figure in history
  • Most effective ways to manage stress
  • Obscure movies that people should watch
  • Multitasking: fact or fiction?
  • Buying a house versus renting an apartment
  • Most exciting travel destination
  • How to ace any test
  • Overcoming social anxiety
  • How our phones are hurting our eyes
  • Are multi-level marketing companies really pyramid schemes?
  • Protests: are they effective?
  • Is a wedding reception worth the price tag?
  • Should catfishing be a criminal offense?
  • Mandatory study abroad semester in college
  • Student loan borrowing: should it ever be forgiven?
  • Responsible credit card strategies
  • Living with parents to save money
  • Can someone find true love on The Bachelor?
  • Telemarketers and Harassment
  • Marvel vs DC

And there you have it – 100+ unique topics to stoke your imagination and help you identify your passion.

Feel free to go beyond these springboard ideas or customize them to your perspective.

Advice from Persuasive Speech Experts

To help you out even more, we asked the experts on the best tips for giving a persuasive speech.

From Melora Kordos, visiting assistant professor of theatre arts at Sweet Briar College:

When selecting a persuasive speech topic, a student should first look to her own interests and passions. If she chooses something that she cares deeply about or has great interest in, then she will be able to more easily identify the best three points that support her argument and focus on those in her speech. If she is not already engaged in the topic, it will be much harder to persuade others to agree with her point of view. She should use both logical and emotional appeals throughout her speech, giving her a better chance of resonating with a larger percentage of her audience.

From Dr. Allison Beltramini, associate professor of communications at Waubonsee Community College:

When doing a persuasive  speech , it’s helpful to choose a topic that you personally believe in or support. It’s much easier to speak on something that you have a connection to. The next tip is to do your homework. This includes exploring the opposite side of the issue. Your audience needs to know that you are well-versed in the topic. Incorporate this research to support the claims you are making. Curate your sources carefully. Know who/what organizations are behind the sources you are using. And please, verbally cite your sources. Using research without the verbal citations in your  speech  is plagiarism. Persuasion is incremental. You can’t just tell someone something and expect they will believe you. You have to set up the issue, show how the problem effect people, talk about what will help or fix the problem and show why the solutions will work. All of these steps are vital. Finally – practice is essential. Your  speech  should be prepared but conversational. Reading to an audience word for word is not a good idea.

From Nate Masterson, HR manager of Maple Holistics :

The key to giving a persuasive  speech  is to engage your audience, and there are several ways to do this. Firstly, make eye contact with different people in the audience, but make sure to scan the whole room and not just focus on one area. Also, research the group of people you will be addressing so that you better know their priorities, cultural norms, inside jokes, etc. To make sure that your speech is sufficiently compelling, stick to just a few main talking points or objectives. This will ensure that your speech stays focused and that you can spend adequate time and energy backing up these main points without boring your audience.

From Jeffrey Davis, executive speech coach at Speak Clear Communications :

First, the best speakers build their argument emotionally as well as logically. Every point has a complelling story attached to it. Second, they make arguments that are novel and innovative. The “how” of the argument is as important as the “why.” Lastly, great speakers do not hold back on hand gestures!  Gesturing is scientifically proven to enhance a speaker’s impression with the audience.

From Bridgett McGowen, CEO of BMcTALKS :

While it’s important your audience has a memorable experience during your presentation and that it learns something new or gains a new perspective on something it already knew, it is equally important to move the audience to actually do something with what you shared … something that will inspire or change their lives, professions, or communities … because you are there to persuade! Remember any time you present, consistently think to yourself “In what difference-making endeavor do I want my audience to join?” or “Now that everyone has heard this, now what?” Give them the answers to those questions to further your persuasive message.

From Martha Krejci, business coaching leader :

Don’t write everything out! The last thing you want to do is look like you’re reading a speech verbatim. You want to illuminate your authority in the field you are speaking about. Reading does not do that….at all. So, here’s what I do. I think about the end goal of what I’m trying to communicate. Then, reverse engineer the points that take us there. Write the points out on a notecard if you need it, or if you’re lucky enough to have a teleprompter, use that. And finally, above all…tell stories! Don’t just have a bunch of dry information that anyone with a wifi signal could google. Tell stories that bring your audience into your problem, but also your solution you propose. If you can master storytelling, you may just be surprised by how good you can get at public speaking.

From Neil Thompson, founder of Teach the Geek :

Telling an easy-to-follow story is crucial in being persuasive. If people have to think too hard to understand what you’re talking about, they’re less likely to listen. If they don’t listen, you won’t have a chance to persuade them. If there are studies, surveys, or other types of data that can vouch for what you’re saying, that’ll also go a long way to persuading others. Lastly, you have to believe what you’re talking about. If you truly believe your message, it’ll shine through and people will be inclined to believe you, too.

From Adam Cole, expert writer and author:

Number one is the invitation to listen. It ensures that the listener has a context in which to understand what you are presenting so that everyone is on the same page when the important information comes. The invitation may contain relevant humorous anecdotes to break the tension and present the speaker as appealing, and it must be accessible enough that the listener will at least know what the topic is and why they should care. Number two is the topic. Depending on the complexity of the topic, it should be structured for maximum clarity. While humor and anecdotes can be used to illustrate the point, they should not distract from it or become the focus (unless the task is to highlight the speaker, rather than the topic, which is ok). Number three is the follow-through. If the listener has learned something, a good summation will help them retain the most important points from the learning so that they can remember it and follow up with more learning (perhaps from the speaker’s books, videos, or other appearances!) Taking the topic and framing it in terms of an action step for the audience may be a powerful way for them to keep the presentation (and the speaker) in their heads.

Conclusion: Best Persuasive Speech Topics

Remember, your passion and expertise on the topic will translate to audience engagement – and hopefully a good grade!

  • Delivering a persuasive speech doesn’t have to be a nerve-wracking experience if you’re prepared and passionate.

In the words of Cicero: “A good orator is pointed and impassioned.”

To follow the advice of the great Roman orator, find your passion and then express it through your persuasive speech.

The skills you develop now in this area will benefit you throughout your professional and personal life.

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121 Top Persuasive Speech Topics

Ever found yourself tongue-tied when trying to convince someone of your brilliant idea? Or maybe you’re just looking for a topic that will spark lively debate in your next class or meeting. A powerful persuasive speech can change minds, influence decisions, and even inspire action. But where do you start?

This blog features 121 persuasive speech topics carefully selected to cover a wide range of interests, from current events and social issues to personal beliefs and ethical dilemmas.

Table of Contents

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

A good topic is one that you, as the speaker, are passionate about. Your enthusiasm will naturally shine through, making your speech more engaging and persuasive. If you genuinely believe in what you’re saying, your audience is more likely to be swayed by your arguments. A persuasive speech is not just about presenting facts; it’s about connecting with your audience on an emotional level and inspiring them to see things from your perspective.

A good persuasive speech topic sparks interest and encourages critical thinking. It should be a subject that people care about, with actual implications and potential for debate. A complex topic with multiple facets allows for deeper exploration and the opportunity to present a well-rounded argument. Controversial topics that aren’t black and white are particularly effective as they invite diverse perspectives and encourage the audience to question their assumptions.

Equally important is the availability of credible evidence to support your claims. A strong persuasive speech relies on factual information from reputable sources, not just personal opinions or anecdotes. The ability to back up your arguments with solid evidence adds weight to your message and makes it more convincing.

121 Persuasive Speech Topics

Crafting a truly compelling persuasive speech requires a delicate balance. It’s a challenge to discover a topic that both captivates your audience and genuinely excites you. Your chosen subject should be fresh, unique, and thought-provoking, yet it must avoid crossing the line into offense. This balancing act can make finding the perfect topic feel like an elusive pursuit.

To help you on this journey, we’ve curated a list of persuasive speech topics, thoughtfully organized by category. This diverse assortment aims to spark your creativity and lead you toward a subject that resonates deeply with both you and your listeners.

Arts and culture

  • Is graffiti art? 
  • Should art classes be mandatory for all students?
  • Should we continue reading classic literature that is offensive? 
  • Should there be a distinction between ‘high’ and ‘low’ literature?
  • Are romcoms and erotica series like Fifty Shades of Grey empowering for women?
  • Is reading actually more beneficial than watching TV or playing video games?
  • Is there any benefit or relevance to teaching high school students Shakespeare?
  • Should video games be considered a high form of entertainment?
  • Are biopics of deceased musicians and artists ethical?
  • Is modern music really worse than old?
  • Should paparazzi be banned and unable to sell their photos?
  • Should post-secondary education be free?
  • Should a year between high school and college be mandatory?
  • Is it fair to take cell phones away from kids in middle/high school while they are in class?
  • Should school uniforms be mandatory in all high schools?
  • Should cursive writing still be taught in schools?
  • Do fraternities and sororities actually serve their purpose? 
  • Should programming and coding be introduced to young students?
  • Should school lunches be free?
  • Is college/university necessary anymore?
  • Does the education system prepare students for adult life?
  • Should gyms be mandatory for all students?
  • Should schools do a better job teaching students a second language?
  • Should schools teach sign language?
  • What age should students be taught sex education?
  • Should distant learning be encouraged or avoided at all costs?
  • Is animal testing ethical?
  • Is drinking coffee unethical?
  • Are animal shelters that allow euthanization ethical?
  • Should more people try to adopt a vegetarian/vegan diet?
  • Is the death penalty ethical? 
  • Can racism ever truly be eliminated?
  • Can the prison system genuinely contribute to the improvement and rehabilitation of individuals?
  • Should justice systems and incarceration facilities focus on rehabilitation over punishment? 
  • Should cosmetic plastic surgery be covered by insurance?
  • Are morals objective or subjective?
  • Should zoos and circuses be banned?
  • Should fur coats be illegal?
  • Are censorship laws ethical?
  • Is it ethical to genetically modify embryos? 
  • How should we address the homelessness crisis, and who is responsible for it? 
  • Should minors who commit violent crimes be charged and tried as adults?

Environment

  • Can we ever live in a truly ‘green’ and environmentally friendly society?
  • Should plastic water bottles be banned?
  • Are businesses responsible for implementing environmentally friendly production and products?
  • Should there be a carbon tax?
  • Should electric cars be mandatory in the near future?
  • Should we switch to entirely renewable energy?
  • Do low-income families have the same duty to be eco-conscious as high-income families do? Should plastic bags and single-use plastic be completely banned?
  • Should car racing be banned?
  • Should fast fashion be banned?
  • Is capitalism a functional, ethical economic system? 
  • Should everyone, despite their income, be taxed at the same rate?
  • Can we introduce another economic system to our society? 
  • Should each state, the federal government, or individual companies be responsible for setting living wages?
  • Should the minimum wage be doubled?
  • Should everyone adapt to the four-day workweek?
  • Should people who make under a certain amount per year not be taxed at all?
  • Should governments encourage and reward people for shopping locally? 
  • Should advertisements be banned during TV and media programming aimed at kids?
  • Has modern consumerism gone too far?
  • Do we actually live in a truly democratic society?
  • Should there be a minimum wage or a living wage?
  • Should the legal voting age be decreased?
  • Does the pay gap exist?
  • Are younger politicians more effective?
  • Should there be stricter gun laws?
  • Should presidents be able to serve more than two terms?
  • Should everyone get the day off to vote?
  • Should political party funding be regulated?
  • Should political smear campaigns be banned?
  • Is there political bias in mainstream media?
  • Should you date someone with opposing political views? 
  • Is the government spending too much on the military sector?
  • Are individuals solely responsible for their own health?
  • Should prescription medications be free?
  • Should sugary drinks like pop be taxed at higher rates?
  • Should Starbucks be allowed to advertise its high-calorie and high-sugar drinks?
  • Should the government regulate the prices of fruits and vegetables?
  • Should fast-food restaurants regulate and reduce their portions?
  • Should gym memberships be free?
  • Should the government change and restructure the workweek to reduce stress?
  • Should nurses be paid more?
  • Should smoking be banned?
  • Should insurance companies fully cover rehabilitation stays for health issues such as eating disorders?
  • Should the pay for professional teams be based on audience viewership? 
  • Are professional sports getting too violent? 
  • Are athletes overpaid?
  • Is cheerleading empowering or exploitative? 
  • Should children be allowed to compete in competitive sports?
  • Should we spend millions on the Olympic Games?
  • Do people place too much importance on high school and college football?
  • Should alcohol and tobacco ads be banned during sports?
  • Is betting on sports teams ethical?
  • Should high school and college athletes be paid?

Social media

  • Should there be an age limit on social media?
  • Should cyberbullying have the same repercussions as in-person bullying?
  • Are online relationships as valuable as in-person relationships?
  • Does “cancel culture” have a positive or negative impact on societies?
  • Are social media platforms reliable information or news sources?
  • Should social media be censored?
  • Does social media create an unrealistic standard of beauty?
  • Is regular social media use damaging real-life interactions?
  • Is social media distorting democracy?

Science and technology

  • Is paper media more reliable than digital news sources?
  • Should automated/self-driving cars be legalized?
  • Should schools be required to provide laptops to all students?
  • Should software companies be able to have pre-downloaded programs and applications on devices?
  • Should drones be allowed in military warfare?
  • Should scientists invest more or less money in cancer research?
  • Should cloning be illegal?
  • Should societies colonize other planets?
  • Should there be legal oversight of technology development?
  • Should students sing Christmas carols, say the pledge of allegiance, or perform other tangentially religious activities?
  • Should nuns and priests assume genderless roles?
  • Should schools and other public buildings have prayer rooms?
  • Should animal sacrifice be legal if it occurs in a religious context?
  • Should countries be allowed to impose a national religion on their citizens?
  • Should the church be separated from the state?
  • Does freedom of religion positively or negatively affect societies?
  • What makes a hero?
  • Are we headed toward World War III?
  • Did humans really land on the moon?
  • Are serial killers born or made?
  • Can good and evil be separated neatly?
  • Is canceling culture a positive or negative thing?
  • Can money buy happiness?
  • How to become a millionaire?
  • How to become more confident?
  • How to live to be 100?
  • How to survive an apocalypse?
  • Do extraterrestrial beings exist?
  • Why should students start investing at 16?
  • The true history of… (events of your choice, such as the Chernobyl disaster, the Black Plague, Salem Witch Trials, etc.)

How to Choose a Persuasive Speech Topic?

It’s essential to choose a topic that not only interests you but also resonates with your audience. Begin by brainstorming ideas that you are passionate about or issues you feel strongly about. Consider current events, social issues, or controversial topics that spark debate.

Narrow down your options by researching the potential topics. Gather information from reputable sources to ensure you have enough material to support your arguments. Evaluate the relevance and significance of each topic for your target audience. A persuasive speech should aim to inform, influence, or motivate the listeners, so choose a topic that will engage them.

After narrowing your choices, analyze the feasibility of each topic. Consider the time limit for your speech and the resources available for research. Choose a topic that you can adequately address within the given time frame and for which you can gather sufficient evidence to support your claims.

Most importantly, choose the topic that you believe will have the most impact on your audience. A persuasive speech should leave a lasting impression, so choose a topic that you can present with conviction and enthusiasm. Consider the potential counterarguments and be prepared to address them effectively. With careful consideration and research, you can choose a persuasive speech topic that will captivate your audience and leave them pondering your message.

10 Elements of a Good Persuasive Speech Topic

A persuasive speech aims to convince the audience to agree with your viewpoint. To achieve this, a well-written persuasive speech incorporates several key elements:

1. Compelling topic

The foundation of a persuasive speech lies in choosing a topic that is relevant, interesting, and has the potential to spark debate. It should be a subject you are passionate about and knowledgeable about, as this will enhance your credibility and enthusiasm.

2. Clear thesis statement

A concise and well-defined thesis statement serves as the backbone of the speech. It clearly outlines your stance on the topic and provides an outlook for the arguments that will follow.

3. Strong introduction

The introduction is crucial to capture the audience’s attention and establish your credibility. It should begin with a hook, such as a thought-provoking question, a surprising statistic, or a relevant anecdote, to pique the audience’s interest.

4. Well-structured body

The body of the speech is where you’ll present your arguments and supporting evidence. Each argument should be logically organized and supported by credible sources, statistics, examples, or personal anecdotes.

5. Effective use of rhetorical devices

Rhetorical devices such as repetition, parallelism, rhetorical questions, and analogies can enhance the impact of the speech and make it more persuasive. They help to emphasize key points, create emotional appeal, and engage the audience.

6. Appealing to emotions (pathos)

Connecting with the audience on an emotional level is important for persuasion. The speaker (you) can evoke emotions such as empathy, fear, hope, or anger by using vivid language, personal stories, or powerful imagery.

7. Establishing credibility (ethos)

Your credibility is critical to gaining the audience’s trust. This can be achieved by demonstrating expertise on the topic, citing credible sources, and presenting oneself as confident and knowledgeable.

8. Logical reasoning (logos)

A persuasive speech should be grounded in logical reasoning. The arguments presented should be coherent, well-supported, and free of fallacies. Using data, statistics, and expert opinions can reinforce the logical appeal of the speech.

9. Addressing counterarguments

Acknowledging and addressing opposing viewpoints shows that you have considered different perspectives and strengthened your argument. By refuting counterarguments effectively, you can further convince the audience of your stance.

10. Strong conclusion

The conclusion is the final opportunity to leave a lasting impression on the audience. It should summarize the main points, reiterate the thesis statement, and end with a call to action or a powerful closing statement that resonates with the audience.

How to Create a Persuasive Speech

Creating a persuasive speech involves a strategic approach that combines compelling content, effective delivery, and a deep understanding of your audience. It’s not just about stating your viewpoint; it’s about addressing an argument that resonates and motivates others to see things your way.

Begin by choosing a topic that you’re passionate about and that holds relevance for your audience. Thoroughly research your topic to gather credible evidence, statistics, and expert opinions to support your claims. A well-informed speech is more likely to persuade.

Organize your speech into a clear and logical structure. Start with a strong introduction that grabs attention and establishes your credibility. State your thesis clearly, outlining the main points you’ll address. The body of your speech should coherently present your arguments, using evidence and examples to back up each point. Conclude with a summary and a call to action that inspires your audience to adopt your viewpoint.

Practice your speech beforehand to ensure you’re comfortable with the material and can speak with confidence and conviction. Maintain eye contact with your audience, use appropriate gestures, and modulate your voice to keep them engaged. Consider using visual aids, such as slides or props, to enhance your presentation.

Tailor your language and approach to your specific audience. Consider their demographics, beliefs, and values to ensure your message resonates with them. Use persuasive techniques such as emotional appeals, logical reasoning, and personal anecdotes to connect with your listeners on a deeper level.

From the Desk of Yocket

Persuasive speech topics are the heart and soul of any effective discourse that aims to influence an audience’s beliefs or actions. A well-chosen topic can spark curiosity, start a debate, and leave a lasting impact on listeners. It’s important to choose a subject that not only resonates with your passions and knowledge but also holds relevance and interest for your intended audience.

Finding the balance between personal connection and audience appeal is key. A topic that genuinely excites you will naturally translate into a more engaging and persuasive presentation. Whether it’s a pressing social issue, a controversial policy, or a lesser-known historical event, the right topic can be a catalyst for meaningful dialogue and inspire others to see the world from a new perspective. The possibilities are vast, and the power to influence through persuasive speech is invaluable for anyone seeking to make a difference.

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50 good persuasive speech topics

Good persuasive speech topics.

By:  Susan Dugdale  | Last modified: 08-06-2022

50 persuasive speech ideas, plus example topic treatments

You want good persuasive speech topics and, fortunately I've got quite a few here.☺

My list of 50 is below.

However, whether they are good for you and your audience is something to seriously think about before making your final choice.

What's on this page:

  • How to use this list of persuasive topics effectively  
  • What makes a good persuasive speech topic?
  • How to 'angle' or position a topic to fit your audience and speech purpose
  • Links to more persuasive speech resources  

Image: retro cartoon of girl exclaiming with delighted surprise: 50 good persuasive speech topics

How to be sure you are choosing the best topic

To be sure you make an informed decision, before you settle on a topic check the guidelines about what makes a good persuasive speech topic and the "how to" examples, as well as the list itself.

( Hint -  a not so subtle one : The absolutely best way to use my list is as a prompt to get your own creative juices working. That tip, combined with the series questions in the infographic below will help you cut through the time you spend dithering about trying to decide what topic to do.)

What makes a persuasive speech topic good?

A persuasive speech topic is good if it:

  • fits with the audience - Are they interested in it? Does it benefit them in anyway? How is it of value to them? Can you make it appealing? If it's an old topic, (one that has done a million times before),  can you make it fresh and interesting?
  • is a fit with you - You already know something about it, or you're really interested in finding out more, and you know what want you to achieve through giving the speech.
  • can be researched and prepared within the time frame you need the speech for
  • fits the criteria and the purpose of your speech - set by yourself, your teacher, club, the organization who hired you to speak ...

Use the series of questions in the infographic below to narrow down your search for a good topic. As I've said in the infographic,  the winner is the topic with the highest number of YES answers.

Infographic: How to choose the best persuasive speech topic - a series of questions to ask about each topic you consider.

How to use this list of topics effectively

Treat each idea as a starting point - a hook to give your brain something to latch on to.

As you scan the list look for the speech topics triggering more than a flicker of interest.

Stop and consider those more carefully.  Examine the topic from as many angles as you can. Apply imagination. Shake, rattle and roll that idea around and u se the questions in the infographic  to see whether it fits your needs.

And remember, any topic can be handled multiple ways.

Same persuasive topic - different treatment

Here are two examples to show you how the same topic can be adapted for different audiences. The topic is "Voice Matters".

" Voice Matters - the impact of a teacher's voice on students" - Example 1

cartoon - a line of happy children

The Intended Audience: teachers

Speaker Credibility: many years of teaching English and drama, plus public speaking experience

Speech Angle: to persuade the listeners (teachers) that how their voices sound in their student's ears influences how they are responded to, how their students behave and ultimately how they learn.

Specific Speech Purpose: to have them sign up for a voice workshop

Main ideas:

  • Voice image - how we are perceived by others is influenced by voice quality. This in turn impacts on how we are responded to. (Do check the link. It's really interesting how much voice quality influences our lives.)
  • What is a good quality voice? What personality or character traits are attributed to a person who has a good voice? Use sound clips to demonstrate. Ask for suggestions from the floor. How could that affect students?
  • What is a poor quality voice? What do people assume about the speaker with that type of voice? How could that affect students?
  • How do you know what you sound like to others? Use prepared sound clip of self to demonstrate.
  • Can voice quality or voice image be changed? Why would you do/not do that? Provide researched examples of before and after work on voice.
  • Consequences of working/not working on voice image - Give results - better classroom atmosphere, more on-target behavior, less time off with voice strain ... * For sound, trustworthy information on how voice quality impacts on student learning please visit my page: How is your teaching voice?  You'll find links to academic studies, and more. Voice does matter!
  • How to work on voice image - outline of action and time line involved
  • Sign up for workshop and ongoing public speaking course

"Voice Matters - the benefit of a good telephone voice" Example 2

Image: retro drawing - young girl on phone. Text: "Voice Matters".

Someone else might come along looking for a good persuasive speech topic and pick "Voice Matters" too. This time the treatment goes like this:

Audience: job seekers

Speaker Credibility: senior recruitment specialist for a major firm in town

Speech Angle: to persuade listeners that their telephone voice, (how they say what they say), is their initial calling card to getting an interview

Specific Speech Purpose: to have the seekers sign up for course on telephone skills to get the appointment they need

Main Ideas: As illustrated in the first example above because the core material is the same or similar but the examples used to carry the persuasive argument and benefits will be relevant to the audience.

  • Sport is the new religion.
  • Social media affects mental health.
  • There should be a law against drugged driving
  • Truth and politics seldom mix.
  • Protests are effective.
  • All guns should be registered.
  • Should single people be allowed to adopt a child.
  • Exploitative advertising should be banned.
  • Love is not a defense or an excuse.
  • Adoption of other-race children should be encouraged.
  • Space aliens exist.
  • Euphemisms are dangerous.
  • Children should not be allowed mind altering drugs of any sort.
  • Arranged marriages have more chance of succeeding.
  • The quality of our voice matters.
  • Assisted suicide should be made legal.
  • Government benefits weaken a country.
  • Discrimination makes you stronger.
  • Private education/schools promote elitism.
  • Religion has no place in schools.
  • Good or right thinking is a matter of opinion.
  • Multi-national corporates should be outlawed.
  • Immigration laws are there to protect us.
  • We should buy locally to support our communities.
  • To be vegan is the only right and moral way to live.
  • Fashion cripples creativity
  • Cars and city centers should not mix.
  • Birth control should be compulsory for people with genetically inheritable diseases.
  • A young single girl who has a child should give it up for adoption.
  • Age gives a face character.
  • The earth is smaller today.
  • Swearing has lost its shock value.
  • Organic farming is the way for the future.
  • Plastic packaging should be banned.
  • Manners are essential.
  • Allowing yourself to have fun is good for your health.
  • Reincarnation is the only way to explain some experiences.
  • The death penalty is obsolete.
  • Drones need to be regulated to protect privacy.
  • Safety legislation leads to diminished personal responsibility.
  • A big brand doesn't necessarily mean big value.
  • Diets do more harm than good.
  • Oil drilling is dangerous for the environment.
  • Food does not make you fat.
  • Advances in medicine are not necessarily good for us.
  • Big brother is more alive and well every day.
  • Death is not final.
  • Community service should be compulsory for everyone.
  • Everyone should have the right to wear what they wish.
  • Addiction is an illness, not a crime. Alcoholics or drug addicts do not belong in prison.

More persuasive speech resources

For help turning your good persuasive speech topic into a fully fledged speech check these pages:

  • Persuasive speech outline Find out how to prepare an excellent speech outline using the classic persuasive speech structure: the 5 steps of  Monroe's Motivated Sequence , (fully explained with an example speech)  and then download a blank speech outline to complete.
  • How to write a persuasive speech Step by step easily followed instructions for refining your outline into an effective speech.

Another 822 persuasive speech topic ideas

If you haven't found the persuasive topic you want yet, check these pages: 

  • 100 persuasive speech ideas ,  
  • 309 'easy' persuasive speech topics   
  • 105 fun persuasive speech topics
  • 310 persuasive speech topics for college
  • 108 feminist persuasive speech topics

Graphic: women with raised fists. Text: 108 feminist persuasive speech topics

  • And last but not least, read a sample persuasive speech that follows the persuasive speech outline referenced above. Please note though before you go to that page the subject is somber: the impact of suicide on families.
  • Return to the top of the page

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what are good topics for a persuasive speech

Speech And Debate

Persuasive Speech Topics

Last updated on: Nov 20, 2023

Persuasive Speech Topics - 150+ Topics for Students

By: Cordon J.

11 min read

Reviewed By: Melisa C.

Published on: Sep 22, 2020

Persuasive Speech Topics

Finding perfect persuasive speech topics for  writing a speech  can be challenging. Since the students have to keep in mind their interest level and the interest of the audience.

However, it’s not impossible.

Unique and compelling topic ideas can play an important role in engaging and persuading the audience.

Persuasive Speech Topics

On this Page

What is a Persuasive Speech?

A persuasive speech aims to educate the audience about a particular topic. The main purpose of a persuasive speech is to convince your audience of your points of view.

When writing a persuasive essay, the most important thing to remember is the selection of the topic. You can write about an idea that will engage your audience and would be interesting for them.

The persuasive speech topics should be bold and should serve the purpose of your speech. This will also help them understand your purpose for writing the piece in the first place.

Persuasive Speech Topics for Students

  • Should we give away the pet that harmed someone else?
  • Should we use horses for transportation in the city?
  • Reasons for not keeping forest animals as pets.
  • Should drivers apply for a driver’s license know how to drive a manual automobile?
  • Advertisements should be changed; they play with our minds.
  • Should animal selfies in tourist locations be allowed?
  • Should animal slaughter for religious purposes be allowed?
  • Self-driving cars: legal or not?
  • Should plastic bags at grocery stores still be used?
  • Should NASA’s budget be increased?

Topic Generator

Discover Captivating Topics in a Click!

Persuasive Speech Topics for University Students

  • How to procrastinate to avoid work?
  • Why do men consider women to be not funny?
  • College parking should be added to the tuition fee.
  • Do vegetarians really love animals?
  • How can you get someone to stop being annoying?
  • Medical experiments shouldn’t be done on animals.
  • It isn’t ethical to date your coworker.
  • Women getting paid less is justified
  • Child pornography laws should be improved and made much stricter.
  • The Kardashians are more influential than the president.

Persuasive Speech Topics for College Students

  • Ipads and tablets should replace textbooks and other college books.
  • Students should always take detailed notes during a lecture.
  • College students should attend all lectures and not skip classes.
  • Students must be careful about what they post on social media.
  • Elderly people are at more risk for identity theft.
  • Students should consider opting for their passion as their major.
  • Taking a gap year is an intelligent choice.
  • Students should take summer classes to get ahead of schedule.
  • Students should enhance their vocabulary and not rely on auto-correct.
  • Can the internet crash worldwide?

Persuasive Speech Topics for High School

  • Community service should be compulsory for everyone.
  • Is it okay to get your pet neutered?
  • Should school field trips be within the same city or country?
  • Exams shouldn’t be introduced until College.
  • Palm oil: good or bad?
  • Is education in prison any good?
  • Disposable diapers are dangerous for the environment, thus must be banned.
  • Young adults and children should be kept away from chat rooms on the internet.
  • Should all kids be taught how to cook?
  • Should C++ be eliminated from the face of the earth?

Persuasive Speech Topics for Kids

  • Boxing should be legal.
  • Playing instruments in school should be a part of teaching.
  • Kids required to learn basic essay writing skills
  • Fangirls don’t know anything about sports.
  • Athletes should be careful with how they spend their money.
  • Public schools should not restrict kids from wearing a uniform.
  • How to convince your mom to bake pizza for you
  • Comparing Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi is foolish.
  • How to convince your dad to buy you Xbox
  • We should have a six months summer break twice a year.

Good Persuasive Speech Topics

  • Does consuming coffee cause any harm?
  • Plastic surgery is becoming a habit instead of a medical procedure.
  • Social networks cause more damage than good.
  • The free media should be controlled.
  • Lack of financial education is a real problem in society.
  • Therapy depends on the patients’ dedication.
  • The death penalty should be banned.
  • Surrogacy should be promoted more.
  • How has Artificial Intelligence improved our daily lives?
  • Men are unable to understand women.

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Persuasive Speech Topics About Mental Health

  • Genetically modified foods have a bad effect on people’s mental health.
  • People experiencing mental health problems should not be considered mad.
  • Mental health problems are nothing to be ashamed of.
  • Ten effective ways to prevent mental health
  • Working out at home isn’t effective.
  • People shouldn’t be mean towards the opponent team.
  • What are the five most common mental health problems?
  • You should not be rude towards others.
  • A bipolar patient should be treated with care.
  • People with autism can lead healthy and normal life.

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics

  • Same-sex schools are better than co-ed school systems.
  • Parents should go through their kid’s belongings daily to look for drugs.
  • Teenage kids shouldn’t be given birth control pills without their parents' permission.
  • Students involved in cyberbullying should be expelled from school.
  • Kids under the age of 17 should have a 9 PM curfew.
  • It should be mandatory that kids should learn a second language.
  • Children of single parents are not confident.
  • One child policy should be implemented to control the population.
  • Breastfeeding in public places should be allowed.
  • There should be free WiFi in public places.

Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics

  • Are internet relationships beneficial for college students?
  • Women and men have different perspectives on love and relationships.
  • Is it possible to maintain a long-distance relationship?
  • Should you live with your fiancé before marriage?
  • Teens should have more freedom of using cell phones.
  • Jealousy can destroy all relationships, no matter how strong.
  • Why is it challenging to break up with dishonest partners these days?
  • Counseling is a great solution for handling damaged relationships.
  • Men cheat more in comparison to women.
  • The secret to having a fruitful relationship is intimacy.

Sports Persuasive Speech Topics

  • Are gaming consoles and violent video games hurting the youth?
  • Men are competing against women.
  • Athletes should be made to take a drug test frequently.
  • Gender shouldn’t matter in sports.
  • Should Male and female athletes be paid equally?
  • Should marching band be considered a sport?
  • Parental pressure and its effect on athletic kids.
  • Should swimming be taught to every student in school?
  • Should boxing be made illegal?
  • Cheerleading should not be considered a sport.

Persuasive Speech Topics on Health and Fitness

  • Preventing and treating violence against children.
  • Solutions and reasons for mental illness in society.
  • How do various genres of music affect the brain?
  • Depression impacts the immune system of a person.
  • How does insomnia impact overall health?
  • Is there an alternative to animal testing?
  • The significance of placebos in medicine.
  • The pros and cons of medical marijuana.
  • Is it safe for children to become vegetarians?
  • Fast food is the major reason for obesity among children.

Funny Persuasive Speech Topics

  • Playing it by the rules is boring and for losers.
  • Acting on your rage shouldn’t be a thing.
  • Having a cupcake in both hands is a perfect example of a balanced diet.
  • Growing up is an option.
  • Being honest with your parents can get you in trouble.
  • Girls are as smart as boys.
  • Life is a test with no preparation and retakes.
  • There is no such thing as love at first sight.
  • Pick-up lines can come in handy at times.
  • Christmas is a pagan holiday, not a Christian one.

Controversial Persuasive Speech Topics

  • Can money buy happiness?
  • Have we lost the art of listening?
  • Does kindness make the world a better place?
  • Should people keep their complaints to themselves?
  • What is more important: talent or hard work?
  • When should you compromise?
  • Can society be moral without religion?
  • Violent video games create aggressive teenagers.
  • Can the government be trusted?
  • Should world leaders place morality above all else?

Persuasive Speech Topics about Environment

  • Solutions for reducing the impact of global warming.
  • Is it possible to handle the population explosion?
  • How do humans destroy forests?
  • The potential dangers of GMO food.
  • Is it safe to utilize nuclear power?
  • Can flood impact be predicted?
  • Previously undiscussed impacts of earthquakes.
  • How can minimizing paper waste help to preserve trees?
  • Fossil fuels are ruining the atmosphere.
  • Exotic animals should be allowed to live in their natural habitat.

Unique Persuasive Speech Topics

  • What is happening in the field of space exploration?
  • Why is Pluto not a planet?
  • The United States should make further technological advancements.
  • Should Apple Music always be free?
  • Too much screen time will make children lazy.
  • Why are people so addicted to the internet?
  • How is deforestation impacting the planet?
  • High school students should be taught a foreign language.
  • How can we expand renewable energy on a global scale?
  • Assisted suicide should be allowed for terminally ill patients.

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Informative Persuasive Speech Topics

  • Should you go after your passion for business with little experience?
  • Is the history of the Bible correct?
  • Why is driving a sports car not practical for everyday use?
  • Transgender people should be allowed to join the military.
  • Is preschool necessary?
  • Is it ethical to pay a surrogate?
  • Why is alien abduction real?
  • Anime should be taught at school.
  • The main cause of obesity in America is the fast-food industry.
  • Pink should be a gender-neutral color.

Simple Persuasive Speech Topics

  • Libraries should be closed down, and everyone should get unlimited access to e-books.
  • Can you really trust a therapist?
  • Love plays the greatest role in our lives.
  • How important is the brand name for their success?
  • Polygamy should be banned everywhere.
  • Schools should not have physical punishments.
  • Assigning a police officer at every club can decrease drinking while driving.
  • Netflix is the reason for eyesight problems in young adults today.
  • Can looks impact your success in life?
  • Minors shouldn’t be allowed to work in the fashion industry.

General Persuasive Speech Topics

  • Facts that prove there’s life on other planets.
  • Is it possible for humans to survive on Mars?
  • China’s government shouldn’t put restrictions on the number of kids a couple can have.
  • Distance learning should replace traditional schools.
  • Can clones replace actual humans?
  • Is acupuncture a valid medical technique?
  • Self-driving cars should be legal.
  • Factory farming should be banned.
  • How do puppy mills affect us?
  • Entry to museums should be free.

What are Good Persuasive Speech Topics?

It is important to know the criteria for good persuasive speech topics if you want to write on an interesting and engaging topic.

The first step is to look for something that you find compelling.

You have to research your topic to write an impressive and persuasive speech. It will be easier if your selected speech idea matches your interest level.

Secondly, the audience is also equally important.

Who is this speech for? Is it for your peers and your instructor?

Once you identify your audience, you will be better equipped to write your speech. Think about how you can make your speech relatable yet unique.

Choosing a topic that is too simple might be a mistake. The reason is that it may cause your audience to lose interest in what you are saying. If you choose a common topic for your speech, then use a different angle for this. You can explain it from a different perspective to your audience.

Since it is not something new, some unique information will be interesting. Research is crucial to know what catchy and fun persuasive speech topics you want to write about. The research will also allow you to write well and appear well informed about your subject.

Being familiar with your subject matter will allow you to write it in a better way. This aspect is really important to convince your audience.

Now that you have explored the list of our best public speaking persuasive speech topics, you can choose one for your speech. Select a topic that will help you to write an engaging, outstanding, and impressive speech.

Once you have decided on a topic to talk about, polish your skills by learning some important factors of persuasive speech. Start writing your speech and make an impressive public appearance.

If you feel that you do not have enough skills for writing your persuasive speech, you can hire professional help. You can provide your topic of interest to the essay writers. They will conduct research and write a persuasive speech for you.

The essay writers at  5StarEssays.com  will provide you with the best persuasive speech that will help you impress your audience. Our  write my essay  website is the one that you need for writing an impressive speech.

Or if you are in a but of a hurry, we have AI powered essay writer for your help that can help you generate a speech within 90 seconds!

Cordon J.

Cordon. is a published author and writing specialist. He has worked in the publishing industry for many years, providing writing services and digital content. His own writing career began with a focus on literature and linguistics, which he continues to pursue. Cordon is an engaging and professional individual, always looking to help others achieve their goals.

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Persuasive Speech Topics: The Best 150 Ideas

Plus, a step-by-step guide for writing and delivering your speech.

Persuasive Speech Topics

Persuasive speech topics can inspire an audience and influence change in your community, town, or city. Whether you are giving a presentation at a large conference or converting a college essay into a speech to be given at your high school's auditorium, delivering a persuasive speech is not an easy task. We are here to guide you through this difficult process and provide you with 150 persuasive speech topics that can help you prepare your own inspirational presentation.

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Article Contents 13 min read

The art of persuasion.

The art of oratory is one of the oldest and most compelling persuasion tactics in human history. The power of speech has been used for centuries by men and women to negotiate peace, start revolutions, and inspire generations. At the source of change, we often witness a great speaker or speech that affected people’s worldviews. King Solomon, Socrates, Cicero, Elizabeth I, Napoleon, Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King, were all powerful speakers who changed the course of human history.  

Luckily, not every persuasive speech happens on such a grand scale. You do not have to become Napoleon to change the lives of people who hear what you have to say. You might have experienced this yourself – perhaps you have had a teacher who instilled in you a great passion for the study of physics during his lectures? Or you happened to attend a political, grassroots gathering where you heard a speech that changed your attitude towards homelessness or poverty. Or maybe your classmate's presentation revealed something about a novel you were reading in class that made you reflect on your own life and the people in it.

The power of a speech lies in your conviction and delivery of the topic you choose to discuss. A persuasive speech topic can be anything you are passionate about. Yes, it is true; whether you want to discuss the repercussions of the Cuban Revolution or analyze the power of K-pop in popular culture, it is up to you to enthrall the audience with your topic. The key to any successful speech is your confidence and enthusiasm. So, let’s start by examining what makes a speech persuasive.

To deliver a speech takes a lot of guts – not everybody is comfortable with public speaking. But to deliver a good speech takes conviction. Think of it like this: you must believe in the importance of your speech topic to discuss it. This must be something you care about and believe in; otherwise, your topic must be something that drives your curiosity, and you believe that it must be examined further.

Conviction stirs your desire to share this topic with others – you are convinced that other people will similarly find this topic fascinating! Whether it is the importance of recycling or bike lanes, the conviction is what will become the backbone of a successful and persuasive topic choice, as well as drive your desire to give a speech in the first place.

With conviction comes passion. These two elements of a successful speech are intimately intertwined. If you believe in the importance of something, you will be passionate about sharing it with the public.

If we look at some of the most famous speeches in human history, you will notice that conviction and passion are the driving force that makes these speeches legendary. Whether it's Cicero's defense of the Republic in the Roman Senate or Martin Luther King's speech in the defense of civil rights almost two millennia later, both these speakers believed in the importance of their convictions and were passionate about sharing their beliefs. In these cases, even despite the threats of death.

Unbiased Expertise

Conviction and passion should also drive your need to know everything there is to know about your topic. To give a persuasive speech, you must not only show confidence and excitement but demonstrate that you are an expert in the topic of your choice. Granted, if you are a high school student or an undergraduate who's been assigned to deliver a speech in less than 2 weeks, you are not going to become a world-renowned expert in your subject matter. However, as I pointed out, your speech topic should be something you are already passionate about, so you must have done some research and have some knowledge of your topic.

A persuasive speech should be based on facts. It should deliver arguments and counterarguments to show many sides of the issue you choose to discuss. For example, if you choose to discuss the importance of bike lanes, you can present several arguments in support of creating more bike lanes in your town or city, such as safety, decrease in traffic, environmental benefits, etc. However, make sure to include arguments that also show the other side of the issue, such as having to close down several major streets in your city to reconstruct the roads to fit in the new bike lanes and the side-effects of construction for businesses. Presenting both sides of the issue will show your comprehensive knowledge of the topic and demonstrate your professionalism.

Using the bike lanes topic as an example, I want to emphasize that showing unbiased research and knowledge of your topic can win the audience’s favor. You can, and should, still have your own opinion on the matter and defend your conviction in the speech but presenting the audience with both sides of the story is a tactic that will make them trust you.

Additionally, knowing both sides of the coin shows that you have come to your conviction after long and thorough research. You are not just presenting an uneducated opinion.

Taking care of the substance of your speech is the first step. While learning how to properly deliver your speech may seem less important, even the most well-researched and factually based speech will seem weak if the orator does not engage the public.

Though they certainly help your confidence, conviction and passion do not always result in strong delivery. This is understandable since public speaking is not everyone’s forte. While you may be animated and absorbing when you speak of your topic with friends, gripping an audience full of strangers is different.

There are three potential goals of any persuasive speech:

To familiarize your audience with a topic they have never considered before and inspire them to research it on their own. "}]" code="timeline1">

When you think about it, these objectives are pretty ambitious. Delivery plays a huge part in achieving these goals. It will be hard to move your audience to pursue any of these goals without clear articulation, professionalism, and charisma.

Strong delivery can be developed. Yes, there are those to whom oratory skills come more naturally, but this is rather an exception than the rule. Many successful orators were terrified of public speaking but worked hard to overcome their fears. A good example of this is King George VI of England. Before taking the throne in 1936, he was already an infamously bad speaker. The King trained to keep his speech impediment and nerves at bay once he was crowned and delivered one of the most inspiring speeches against Adolf Hitler and the Third Reich at the beginning of World War II.

Now that you know what makes a speech topic persuasive, let's go over a step-by-step formula that will help you choose the right topic for you. 

  • Brainstorm where your convictions lie and what you are passionate about. You must reflect on what interests, hobbies, news, events, individuals, and activities of yours could be developed into a persuasive, strong narrative. 
  • Narrow these down to 2 or 3 topics that are particularly important or riveting to you. 
  • Now comes the practical side of the brainstorming process: take a moment to think whether preparing a comprehensive and compelling speech on this topic is feasible in the amount of time you have available. Consider the following questions: Are the topics of your choice well researched by you? Do you know these topics well? If you are not well-versed in the topic of your choice, do you have enough time to do research to present a comprehensive and complete narrative? Do you have enough time to form a well-developed stance about this topic? A thesis? Will you be able to cover several sides of this topic in the amount of time you have available?
  • If you have answered “No” to these questions regarding each of the topics you had in mind, you must go back to the drawing board. 
  • If you have come up with a topic that results in a positive response to all the questions mentioned in step 3, you might have found the winner.
  • Start by developing a thesis, i.e., the main message of your speech. Without a thesis, you will not have a strong speech. 
  • Develop arguments that endorse your thesis and support them with facts. Remember, a strong speech must be based on facts, rather than opinions and unsubstantiated statements.
  • Research counterarguments to your thesis. While you may not personally support these, you must present a well-rounded picture of the issue you are discussing. 
  • You can finish off your speech by responding to the counterarguments in a way that reinforces your thesis. Don't forget to re-emphasize your main message in the closing paragraphs of your speech.

Know your audience

It is always a good idea to know who your audience is. Whether you are giving a speech in your high school, or traveling to attend an undergraduate conference, reflect on who will be listening to your speech. Before you sit down to write it, consider whether you can give yourself the freedom to use technical language, jargon, or make inside jokes on the matter. In general, I would advise you to avoid overly technical or niche language. It is never a good tactic for making a persuasive speech – this might alienate a large part of your audience.

However, if you are delivering a speech to a like-minded audience, you may use "industry lingo". For example, if you are delivering a speech at a video game convention, it is likely that many, if not most, attendees will be familiar with the terms and vocabulary you use. You will be able to strengthen your speech by using language that unites you with your audience. In this case, you are encouraged to engage the public by making inside jokes, using niche terminology, and creating a relatable experience with your speech.

Knowing your audience will allow you to develop a language for your speech. It will also allow you to gauge how deep you can delve into the topic of your choice. For example, if you are a young physics aficionado who is giving a lecture on black holes to your sophomore classmates, you might want to consider the fact that many of them have never studied physics in depth. This may help you shape your speech into something accessible and interesting for others.

If you are unsure about who your audience might be, try researching it. It is always good practice to know whom you will be addressing. Not only will it help you prepare the speech, but it will also ease your anxiety about the day of your speech delivery.

Hook the audience

Your opening sentences can hook the audience and guarantee their attention. While it will be the substance of your speech that keeps them listening to you, the opening must be captivating for your speech to have a chance for success.

So, what do I mean by hooking the audience with your opening? For example, you can state a shocking statistic about your topic. It will be especially impactful if it is related to your audience’s experiences, geographical area, community, or hot-topic issue. Here’s an example for an opening sentence for a speech about the importance of bike lanes:

“Last year, the city of Toronto recorded 715 serious accidents involving cyclists, with over 5% of these accidents resulting in a fatality."

Now, if I was living in Toronto, I would be surprised to hear such information; especially, if I have never thought about this before. I am saddened by this statistic and would like to learn how we can help prevent these accidents.

Let’s examine another opening. This time, we will consider a speech topic involving a historical event. For example, if you are captivated by the mystery of Princess Anastasia of the Russian royal family, the House of Romanov, you might start your speech thusly:

“The question of whether the Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna Romanova survived the brutal execution of her entire family by the Bolsheviks is one of the greatest mysteries of the 20th century.”

This sentence performs several tasks:

The opening sentence is your chance to establish yourself as the expert! You will seem like the authority on this topic, especially if you can pronounce the Princess's name without mistakes. "}]" code="timeline2">

Coming up with a strong opening sentence is not easy, but very worthwhile for delivering a persuasive speech. If you are having trouble finding the right opening sentence, you do not need to wait to start writing your speech. If you are stuck, move on to the main body of your speech and return to creating a captivating opening later.

To be persuasive, your speech must have a thesis. A thesis is the main argument you are trying to convince your audience of, or simply put, the purpose of you giving the speech. Without a thesis, your speech will be aimless, chaotic, and most likely, unengaging.

And while you can write your introduction after the main body of your speech is ready, you cannot write your speech without a thesis. It will be the landmark, the leading light, of your speech. Everything you say and every fact and argument you include in your essay must support your thesis. Certainly, you will be able to bring up alternative points of view later in the speech, but as we already discussed, your objective is to persuade the audience that your thesis is the correct one.

Let’s return to our bike lanes example. If you are a proponent of bike lanes, your thesis should be more than “Bike lanes are good”. While this can be considered a thesis, it is pretty thin. Instead, find a way to make your thesis compelling, include a supporting statistic, or a benefit of having bike lanes. For example: 

“Having more bike lanes in our city will not only reduce traffic by X% but also allow our city to be at the forefront of the environmentally friendly initiatives happening all over our country.” 

This thesis is clear and introduces the audience to some of the main points of the speech. The listeners get a concise prelude to what the speech is about and what it stands for.

Research and Arguments

Research is always conducted before you sit down to write. While you may have some general knowledge about your topic, remember that you are trying to be as persuasive as you possibly can be. This means that you need the latest statistics, the most up-to-date information, and the strongest support from experts in the field. 

Tip: keep in mind your thesis as you are writing. All your arguments and facts must be in support of the main purpose of your essay. While you should present alternative points of view in your speech to make it well-rounded and unbiased, a strong speech must contain arguments that make it clear that your thesis is the correct one.

Concluding your speech has a twofold purpose. In addition to persuading the audience of your thesis, you must complete your narrative. Give the audience some closure about the topic. On the other hand, you must leave them even more interested in learning about your research. In other words, they must be compelled to explore on their own.

Tip: your conclusion cannot be a dry summary of your thesis and arguments. While you must restate your thesis in the conclusion, you are strongly encouraged to incite an emotional response from your audience. For example:

“More bike lanes will alleviate the heavy traffic and relieve our city from car fumes and soot. It is our responsibility to start making our city more eco-friendly. These small steps will inspire even more initiatives across our hometown and lead to a brighter, greener, future."

In this example, the audience is not only reminded of the main purpose of the speech but is also encouraged to think of other green initiatives that can help their town. The author does a good job of invoking responsibility for the future to encourage their audience to act. 

Want to learn how to choose persuasive speech topics? Check out our infographic:

Now, let’s go over 150 persuasive speech topics that can inspire your own essay and presentation! Note that these are questions that should help you form ideas, arguments, and most importantly, theses. Rather than giving you the thesis upfront, we are encouraging you to come up with your own opinion and answers to these questions.

Your speech should be between 15 to 20 minutes long. Anything longer may lose your audience's attention. If applicable, don't forget to factor in some time after your presentation for questions from the audience.

The best way to approach the choice of topic is to reflect on your convictions and passions. If you are truly interested in a topic, your excitement will be felt by the audience.

Of course, you must be interested in your topic, first and foremost. Secondly, your speech must demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that will allow the audience to believe that you know what you are talking about. Thirdly, your delivery will have a great effect on whether you succeed in persuading the audience. Even a well-researched speech will suffer from poor delivery.

Firstly, only practice can really help you improve. Once you have written your speech, read it over several times. Do not memorize it, but rather, remember the structure, the flow of your arguments, your main points. Then start practicing pronouncing your entire speech in front of the mirror. Do this until you are quite confident with the content of the essay. Then, you can start practicing with family members, your friends, and classmates. Ask for their feedback: can they hear you well? Are you being articulate? Does your speech have a logical flow? Did they understand your thesis? Their feedback can help you modify not only your content, but also your presentation.

Your speech should take the form of an academic essay: introduction, main body, and conclusion.

Your speech must have a thesis, otherwise it will be meandering and pointless. A thesis will guide you and keep your essay/presentation well-structured. A thesis is what you will be arguing for (or against, if it's a negatively stated thesis) throughout your speech. And while you can include some alternative points of view in your speech, your thesis will inform every argument you make in the speech.

Typically, you should avoid using overly technical language. Even if you are presenting at a professional conference in front of peers, there is a chance that some of your audience will be unfamiliar with the professional terminology. To be inclusive, you should avoid niche language.

To be frank, there is no such thing. You can make a great speech on any topic of your choosing! Your research, your delivery, and your passion will determine whether your speech is successful.

Acknowledging opposing views and presence of debate will demonstrate your thorough knowledge of the topic. Additionally, you will demonstrate that you came to your conclusion/thesis after researching the topic, rather than simply forming an uneducated opinion.

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