controversial topics to do a research paper on

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Controversial Research Paper Topics

Last updated on: Mar 5, 2024

150+ Controversial Research Paper Topics to Get You Started

By: Donna C.

10 min read

Reviewed By: Chris H.

Published on: Mar 6, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Good Controversial Research Paper Topics for Students

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

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

Controversial Research Topics for Middle School

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

Controversial Research Topics for High School Students

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

Controversial Research Topics for College Students

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

Controversial Research Topics for University

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

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Controversial Research Topics for Master’s

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

Controversial Research Topics for Ph.D.

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

Common Controversial Research Paper Topics

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

Easy Controversial Research Paper Topics

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

Interesting Controversial Topics

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

Captivating Controversial Research Topics

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

Psychology Controversial Research Paper Topics

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

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

Controversial Medical Topics For A Research Paper

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

Simple Controversial Topics in History for Research Paper

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

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Unique Controversial Topics

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

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

Non Controversial Research Paper Topics

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

How to Choose a Controversial Research Paper Topic?

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

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

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

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

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

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Home » 300+ Controversial Research Topics

300+ Controversial Research Topics

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

Controversial Research Topics

Controversial Research Topics are as follows:

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

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99 of the Most Controversial Research Paper Topics (Controversial Yet Interesting)

Ignite debates with thought-provoking content! Explore controversial research paper topics for compelling discussions and academic exploration.

Feb 20, 2024

woman holding a large book - Controversial Research Paper Topics

Dive into a world of contentious debates and thought-provoking discussions with a deep look at controversial research paper topics. From exploring ethical dilemmas to dissecting societal taboos, this blog will navigate the intricate landscape of controversial subjects, shedding light on research paper structure while captivating your intellectual curiosity. Join us as we unravel the complexities of these contentious issues and challenge the norms of traditional research. Let's embark on a journey of exploration and critical analysis together.

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man in library looking for Controversial Research Paper Topics

1. Stimulates Critical Thinking and Debates

Controversial research paper topics have the unique ability to spark intense debates and discussions among researchers, academics, and the general public. These topics often challenge preconceived notions and push individuals to think critically, analyze different perspectives, and defend their own viewpoints. The intellectual stimulation that arises from debating controversial issues can lead to groundbreaking insights and innovative solutions.

2. Encourages Exploration of Taboo Subjects

Controversial research paper topics often touch upon taboo subjects that are considered sensitive or off-limits in mainstream discourse. By delving into these contentious areas, researchers have the opportunity to explore uncharted territories , challenge societal norms, and shed light on marginalized voices. This exploration can lead to a deeper understanding of complex issues and contribute to social progress and change.

3. Drives Innovation and Creativity

The inherent controversy surrounding these research paper topics pushes researchers to think outside the box, question traditional beliefs, and come up with novel approaches to address challenging issues. This drive for innovation and creativity can lead to the development of groundbreaking theories, methodologies, and solutions that have the potential to revolutionize the field of study and have a lasting impact on society.

4. Captures Public Attention and Interest

Controversial research paper topics have a certain allure that captures the attention and interest of a wide audience. These topics often deal with pressing social, political, and ethical issues that resonate with people on a personal level. As a result, research papers on controversial topics have the potential to reach a larger audience, generate public discourse, and raise awareness about important issues that might otherwise be overlooked.

5. Fosters Resilience and Intellectual Courage

Engaging with controversial research paper topics requires a certain level of resilience and intellectual courage. Researchers must be willing to confront uncomfortable truths, challenge prevailing beliefs, and navigate potential backlash or criticism. By tackling controversial subjects head-on, researchers can develop a greater sense of resilience, strengthen their analytical skills, and cultivate the intellectual courage necessary to push boundaries and pursue innovative research agendas.

1. Genetic modification of embryos: Ethical implications and future considerations

Exploring the ethical dilemmas surrounding the genetic modification of embryos and the potential impact on future generations.

2. Mandatory vaccinations: Balancing public health and individual rights

Investigating the debate on mandatory vaccinations to prevent the spread of contagious diseases while respecting personal freedoms.

3. Climate change denial: The science, the skeptics, and the consequences

Examining the arguments of climate change deniers, the scientific consensus, and the potential consequences of inaction.

4. Artificial intelligence: Enhancing society or posing a threat to humanity?

Delving into the benefits and risks of artificial intelligence in various aspects of society and its potential impact on humanity.

5. Legalizing euthanasia: Compassion or moral dilemma?

Analyzing the arguments for and against legalizing euthanasia, considering the ethical and moral implications.

6. Gun control: Striking a balance between safety and Second Amendment rights

Exploring the contentious issue of gun control, addressing public safety concerns while upholding constitutional rights.

7. Animal testing: Scientific necessity or ethical concern?

Examining the use of animals in scientific research, weighing the benefits of medical advancement against animal welfare concerns.

8. Capital punishment: Just retribution or inhumane practice?

Discussing the arguments surrounding the death penalty, including its deterrent effect, justice for victims, and ethical considerations.

9. Nuclear energy: Sustainable solution or environmental risk?

Investigating the role of nuclear energy in the quest for sustainable power sources and its potential environmental impact.

10. Gender identity: Biological reality vs. self-perception

Exploring the complexity of gender identity, including biological, social, and personal factors that influence one's sense of self.

11. Online privacy: Balancing security with individual freedom

Analyzing the tension between protecting online privacy and the need for security measures in the digital age.

12. Legalization of prostitution: Empowerment or exploitation?

Examining the arguments for and against legalizing prostitution, considering the impact on sex workers and society.

13. Cloning: Scientific advancement or ethical dilemma?

Delving into the science and ethics of cloning, including its potential benefits and the moral implications of cloning humans.

14. Cultural appropriation: Appreciation or exploitation?

Discussing the fine line between cultural appreciation and appropriation, considering power dynamics and historical contexts.

15. Universal basic income: Addressing inequality or encouraging dependency?

Exploring the concept of universal basic income as a solution to economic disparities and its potential societal implications.

16. Genetically modified organisms (GMOs): Feeding the world or endangering health?

Investigating the controversy surrounding GMOs, including their role in food production, safety concerns, and environmental impact.

17. Social media influence: Empowering or manipulating society?

Analyzing the influence of social media on individuals and society, including its role in shaping opinions and behaviors.

18. Cyberbullying: The dark side of online interactions

Exploring the prevalence and impact of cyberbullying on mental health and well-being, and strategies for prevention.

19. Art censorship: Preserving morals or stifling creativity?

Discussing the debate on art censorship, considering cultural sensitivities, freedom of expression, and artistic integrity.

20. The obesity epidemic: Personal responsibility or societal problem?

Examining the factors contributing to the obesity epidemic, including lifestyle choices, food environment, and public health policies.

21. Renewable energy sources: Transitioning towards a sustainable future

Investigating the potential of renewable energy sources to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change.

22. Racial profiling: Law enforcement tool or civil rights violation?

Analyzing the practice of racial profiling, its impact on marginalized communities, and efforts to address systemic bias.

23. The privacy vs. security debate: Striking a balance in the digital age

Exploring the trade-offs between privacy rights and national security concerns, especially in the context of technological advancements.

24. The future of work: Automation, AI, and the changing labor landscape

Discussing the impact of automation and artificial intelligence on the workforce, including job displacement and skills training.

25. Body modification: Self-expression or societal taboo?

Examining the motivations behind body modifications, including tattoos, piercings, and cosmetic surgeries, and societal perceptions.

26. Educational inequality: Addressing disparities in access and quality

Investigating the factors contributing to educational inequality, including funding disparities, systemic barriers, and solutions for reform.

27. Medical marijuana: Healing herb or gateway drug?

Exploring the therapeutic potential of medical marijuana , its legal status, and the debate on its recreational use.

28. Sustainable agriculture: Balancing productivity with environmental stewardship

Discussing sustainable farming practices that promote food security while minimizing environmental impact and preserving natural resources.

29. Cybersecurity threats: Protecting data in the digital age

Analyzing the evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats, including hacking, identity theft, and data breaches, and strategies for protection.

30. Animal rights activism: Advocacy for ethical treatment or extremist ideology?

Examining the motivations and tactics of animal rights activists, legal protections for animals, and ethical considerations in animal welfare.

31. The role of media in shaping public opinion: Informative tool or propaganda machine?

Discussing the influence of media outlets on public perception, including bias, misinformation, and the importance of critical thinking.

32. Immigration policies: National security or human rights concern?

Exploring the complexities of immigration policies , including border control, refugee rights, and the socio-economic impact of migration.

33. Gender pay gap: Workplace inequality and the fight for equal pay

Investigating the disparities in wages based on gender, factors contributing to the gender pay gap, and strategies for achieving pay equity.

34. Mental health stigma: Breaking the silence and promoting understanding

Discussing the stigma surrounding mental health issues, misconceptions, and the importance of destigmatizing mental illness.

35. Space exploration: Inspiring innovation or wasteful expenditure?

Exploring the benefits of space exploration in scientific advancement, technological innovation, and the ethical considerations of space travel.

36. Internet censorship: Protecting society or stifling free speech?

Analyzing the implications of internet censorship on freedom of expression, access to information, and government control of online content.

37. Cultural diversity in the workplace: Promoting inclusivity or tokenism?

Examining the importance of cultural diversity in the workplace, challenges faced by diverse employees, and best practices for fostering inclusivity.

38. Autonomous vehicles: Revolutionizing transportation or safety risk?

Discussing the potential of self-driving cars to improve road safety, reduce traffic congestion, and ethical considerations in autonomous vehicle technology.

39. Gender stereotypes in media: Reinforcing norms or challenging perceptions?

Investigating the portrayal of gender stereotypes in media, its impact on society, and efforts to promote gender equality in media representation.

40. Food insecurity: Hunger in a world of abundance

Exploring the root causes of food insecurity, including poverty, conflict, and climate change, and solutions to address global hunger.

41. The ethics of whistleblowing: Exposing truth or breaching trust?

Discussing the moral dilemmas faced by whistleblowers, the impact of whistleblowing on organizations, and legal protections for whistleblowers.

42. Alternative medicine: Holistic healing or pseudoscience?

Examining the efficacy of alternative medicine practices, including acupuncture, herbal remedies, and homeopathy, and the debate on their scientific basis.

43. Body image and the media: Unrealistic standards and mental health

Analyzing the influence of media on body image perceptions, the prevalence of body dysmorphia, and strategies for promoting positive self-esteem.

44. Plastic pollution: A global environmental crisis

Investigating the impact of plastic pollution on marine ecosystems, human health, and efforts to reduce plastic waste through recycling and regulation.

45. Animal testing in cosmetics: Beauty at the cost of cruelty?

Discussing the controversy surrounding animal testing in the cosmetics industry, ethical alternatives, and consumer awareness of cruelty-free products.

46. Nuclear disarmament: A world free of nuclear weapons?

Exploring the challenges and benefits of nuclear disarmament, global security implications, and diplomatic efforts towards nuclear non-proliferation.

47. Climate engineering: Geoengineering solutions for climate change

Investigating the feasibility and ethical implications of climate engineering technologies, such as solar radiation management and carbon capture.

48. The impact of social media on mental health: Connection or isolation?

Discussing the effects of social media on mental well-being, including cyberbullying, FOMO, and strategies for promoting positive online interactions.

49. Water scarcity: Managing a precious resource

Exploring the global water crisis, sustainable water management practices, and the socio-economic impact of water scarcity on communities.

50. Universal healthcare: Ensuring access to healthcare for all

Discussing the benefits and challenges of implementing universal healthcare systems, including funding, quality of care, and equity in healthcare access.

51. Sweatshop labor: Exploitation in the global supply chain

Analyzing the ethical issues of sweatshop labor, corporate responsibility, and efforts to improve working conditions and wages for garment workers.

52. The impact of globalization on culture: Homogenization or diversity?

Examining the cultural consequences of globalization, including the spread of Western values, cultural exchange, and the preservation of cultural heritage.

53. Genocide prevention: Learning from history to protect human rights

Discussing the role of international law , humanitarian intervention, and early warning systems in preventing genocides and mass atrocities.

54. Data privacy in the age of surveillance: Protecting personal information

Exploring the implications of data collection and surveillance on privacy rights, data breaches, and the need for data protection regulations.

55. Drug legalization: Addressing the war on drugs

Investigating the arguments for legalizing drugs, including marijuana, psychedelics, and the impact of drug policies on public health and criminal justice.

56. Artificial intelligence in warfare: Autonomous weapons and ethical concerns

Discussing the use of AI in military technology, including autonomous drones, cyber warfare, and the ethical considerations of AI in armed conflict.

57. Police brutality: Accountability and reform in law enforcement

Analyzing cases of police violence, racial bias in policing, and efforts to promote accountability, community policing, and reforms in law enforcement.

58. The ethics of animal experimentation: Balancing scientific progress and animal welfare

Examining the ethical considerations of using animals in research, alternatives to animal testing, and regulations to ensure humane treatment.

59. Bioethics in Healthcare: Navigating moral dilemmas in medical practice

Discussing ethical issues in healthcare, including patient autonomy, end-of-life care, genetic testing, and reproductive technologies.

60. GMO labeling: Informed consumer choice or unnecessary regulation?

Exploring the debate on labeling GMOs in food products, consumer rights to know, and the impact of GMO labeling on food industry practices.

61. Online hate speech: The limits of free expression

Investigating the rise of online hate speech, its impact on marginalized groups, legal implications, and strategies to combat hate speech online.

62. The future of democracy: Challenges and opportunities in a digital age

Discussing the impact of technology on democracy, including disinformation, social media influence, electoral integrity, and civic engagement.

63. Cyber warfare: The new frontier of conflict

Analyzing the threats posed by cyber warfare, including hacking, ransomware, and state-sponsored cyber attacks, and strategies for cybersecurity defense.

64. Workplace discrimination: Breaking barriers and promoting diversity

Examining the prevalence of workplace discrimination based on race, gender, age, and sexual orientation, and efforts to foster inclusive work environments.

65. The opioid epidemic: Addressing addiction and overdose crisis

Discussing the factors contributing to the opioid crisis, including overprescription, illicit drug trafficking, and strategies for prevention and treatment.

66. Surveillance capitalism: The commodification of personal data

Exploring the business model of surveillance capitalism, data collection practices by tech companies, and the implications for consumer privacy.

67. Online dating: Changing norms and social interactions

Investigating the impact of online dating on relationships, social dynamics, and the evolution of dating norms in the digital age.

68. Racial disparities in healthcare: Addressing inequities in access and treatment

Examining the racial inequalities in healthcare outcomes, disparities in access to care, and strategies to promote health equity among diverse populations.

69. The impact of technology on jobs: Automation and the future of work

Discussing the effects of automation and AI on the labor market, job displacement, reskilling programs, and the need for workforce adaptation.

70. Domestic violence: Breaking the cycle of abuse

Analyzing the prevalence of domestic violence, its impact on victims and families, and interventions for prevention, support, and legal protection.

71. The dark web: Unveiling the hidden layers of the internet

Exploring the anonymous and illicit activities on the dark web , including illegal markets, cybercrime, and the challenges of law enforcement in cyberspace.

72. Cultural heritage preservation: Safeguarding the past for the future

Investigating efforts to protect cultural heritage sites, artifacts, and traditions from destruction, looting, and the impact of urban development.

73. Mass incarceration: Reforms in the criminal justice system

Examining the causes and consequences of mass incarceration, racial disparities in sentencing, and initiatives for criminal justice reform and rehabilitation.

74. Genetic privacy: Regulating DNA data and bioinformatics

Discussing the privacy concerns related to genetic testing, DNA databases, and the ethical implications of sharing personal genetic information.

75. The impact of social media influencers: Marketing or manipulation?

Analyzing the influence of social media influencers on consumer behavior, advertising regulations, and the authenticity of influencer marketing.

76. Access to education for refugee children: Overcoming barriers to learning

Exploring the challenges faced by refugee children in accessing quality education, barriers to integration, and initiatives for refugee education support.

77. Workplace surveillance: Balancing security with employee privacy

Investigating the use of surveillance technologies in the workplace, employee monitoring practices, and the legal and ethical implications of workplace surveillance.

78. Cryptocurrency regulation: Navigating the digital financial landscape

Exploring the challenges of regulating cryptocurrencies, blockchain technology, and the implications for financial transactions, security, and legal frameworks.

79. Mental health treatment stigma: Breaking down barriers to care

Discussing the stigma surrounding mental health treatment, access to mental healthcare services, and destigmatization efforts to promote help-seeking behaviors.

80. The impact of social media on politics: Influence and disinformation

Analyzing the role of social media in political discourse, election campaigns, misinformation, and the regulation of political advertising online.

81. Human trafficking: Combating modern-day slavery

Examining the global issue of human trafficking, including sex trafficking, forced labor, and efforts to prevent trafficking, prosecute perpetrators, and protect victims.

82. Biohacking: DIY biology and ethical considerations

Investigating the biohacking movement, including DIY genetic engineering, body modifications, and the ethical implications of citizen science in biotechnology.

83. Gender-based violence: Addressing inequalities and promoting gender equality

Discussing the prevalence of gender-based violence, including domestic violence, sexual assault, and efforts to empower survivors, raise awareness, and enact legal protections.

84. The digital divide: Access to technology and internet connectivity

Exploring the disparities in access to technology, digital skills, and internet connectivity, and initiatives to bridge the digital divide and promote digital literacy.

85. The impact of social media on youth: Peer pressure and mental health

Analyzing the influence of social media on adolescent behavior, mental well-being, body image perceptions, and strategies for promoting positive online habits.

86. Workplace diversity programs: Fostering inclusion and equity

Examining the effectiveness of workplace diversity initiatives, including diversity training, recruitment practices, and the promotion of inclusive work environments.

87. Child labor: Exploitation and human rights violations

Discussing the prevalence of child labor, its impact on education, health, and development, and efforts to eliminate child labor through legislation and advocacy.

88. The ethics of brain-computer interfaces: Enhancing cognition or privacy concerns

Investigating the ethical considerations of brain-computer interface technology, its potential applications in healthcare, communication, and the implications for privacy and autonomy.

89. Social inequality in healthcare: Addressing disparities in access and outcomes

Examining the socio-economic factors contributing to healthcare inequality, including insurance coverage, healthcare affordability, and the impact on health disparities.

90. The future of privacy in a surveillance society: Protecting personal data

Exploring the challenges of protecting privacy rights in a surveillance society, digital tracking, data breaches, and the need for privacy regulations.

91. The impact of climate change on vulnerable communities: Environmental justice and adaptation

Analyzing the disproportionate impact of climate change on marginalized communities, including low-income neighborhoods, indigenous populations, and strategies for climate resilience and adaptation.

92. Social media addiction: The risks of excessive screen time

Investigating the addictive nature of social media, its impact on mental health, relationships, and strategies for digital detox and healthy technology use.

93. Sustainable fashion: Ethical practices and environmental impact

Discussing the environmental and social implications of fast fashion, sustainable fashion brands, ethical sourcing, and the circular economy in the fashion industry.

94. Workplace harassment: Creating a culture of respect and accountability

Examining the prevalence of workplace harassment , including sexual harassment, bullying, and efforts to prevent workplace misconduct, promote reporting mechanisms, and support victims.

95. The impact of artificial intelligence on creative industries: Innovation or job displacement

Analyzing the role of AI in creative fields, including art, music, writing, and the potential impact on creative expression, copyright laws, and employment in the arts.

96. Cultural assimilation vs. cultural preservation: Identity and diversity

Exploring the tensions between assimilation and preservation of cultural identities, traditions, languages, and the impact of globalization on cultural diversity.

97. Youth activism: Empowering the next generation of changemakers

Investigating the rise of youth-led movements, social activism among young people, and the impact of youth activism on policy change, social justice, and civic engagement.

98. Smart cities: Urban innovation and sustainable development

Discussing the concept of smart cities, IoT technology, data-driven urban planning, and the potential of smart infrastructure to enhance efficiency, safety, and quality of life in urban areas.

99. Workplace automation: Redefining job roles and skills

Analyzing the impact of automation on the workforce, job displacement, upskilling opportunities, and the future of work in an increasingly automated economy.

woman researching about Controversial Research Paper Topics

1. Choosing a Provocative Topic

Select a topic that is relevant, timely, and sparks debate. Addressing current societal issues or challenging conventional beliefs can make your research paper stand out and generate interest.

2. Thorough Background Research

Before diving into writing, ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of the topic. Familiarize yourself with various perspectives, existing studies, and key arguments to strengthen the credibility of your paper.

3. Compelling Introduction

Hook your readers from the start with a captivating introduction. Clearly define the issue at hand, present the significance of your research, and pose thought-provoking questions to engage your audience.

4. Structured and Logical Organization

Divide your paper into clear sections such as introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion. This structure will guide the reader through your arguments and findings in a coherent manner.

5. Incorporating Diverse Viewpoints

Acknowledge different perspectives on the controversial topic and present a balanced analysis . Address counterarguments respectfully while reinforcing your own stance with strong evidence and logical reasoning.

6. Data-driven Analysis

Support your claims with reliable data, statistics, case studies, and scholarly references. Using empirical evidence will enhance the credibility of your research paper and validate your arguments.

7. Engaging Writing Style

Write in a clear, concise, and engaging manner. Avoid jargon and complex language that may alienate readers. Use illustrative examples, anecdotes, and relatable scenarios to make your paper more accessible and impactful.

8. Ethical Considerations

Ensure that your research is conducted ethically and respects the rights and dignity of all individuals involved. Address any potential biases or conflicts of interest transparently to maintain the integrity of your study.

9. Impactful Conclusion

End your paper with a compelling conclusion that summarizes key findings, emphasizes the significance of your research, and suggests potential implications for the field. Leave the reader with lingering thoughts and a call to action.

10. Peer Review and Revision

Seek feedback from peers, mentors, or professors to refine your research paper. Be open to constructive criticism and revise your work diligently to enhance clarity, coherence, and overall quality. By following these guidelines, you can effectively structure a controversial research paper that captures the reader's attention, stimulates critical thinking, and contributes meaningfully to the academic discourse.

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In controversial research paper topics, the landscape is vast and ever-evolving. Scholars, students, and knowledge workers frequently find themselves engulfed in a deluge of information, struggling to sift through the abundance of data to extract meaningful insights. This dilemma is exacerbated by the proliferation of content creation, where anyone can contribute to the pool of knowledge with a mere click. Otio emerges as a beacon of light in this chaos, offering a streamlined solution to the pervasive issue of content overload. By providing a centralized AI-native workspace for researchers, Otio revolutionizes the way individuals engage with information. Let's delve into the key features of Otio that make it a game-changer in the realm of research and writing.

Collecting Diverse Data Sources

One of the primary challenges faced by researchers is the task of gathering information from a multitude of sources, ranging from traditional articles and books to tweets and YouTube videos. Otio simplifies this process by allowing users to collect data seamlessly from a wide array of sources. Whether it's a thought-provoking tweet or an in-depth research paper, Otio enables users to compile all relevant materials in one cohesive platform.

Extracting Key Takeaways with AI-generated Notes

Once the data is amassed, the next hurdle is distilling key insights from the wealth of information. Otio's AI-generated notes feature proves to be invaluable in this regard. By automatically generating detailed notes on bookmarks, PDFs, videos, and more, Otio empowers users to extract essential takeaways with ease. This not only saves time but also ensures that crucial information does not get lost in the sea of data.

Engaging in Source-grounded Q&A Chat

In the pursuit of knowledge, clarity is key. Otio enhances the research process by offering a unique source-grounded Q&A chat feature. This functionality enables users to engage in dynamic conversations about individual links or entire knowledge bases, fostering a collaborative and insightful research environment. Just like conversing with a knowledgeable peer, Otio's chat capabilities facilitate a deeper understanding of the material at hand.

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

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

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

🔝 Top 10 Controversial Questions in 2024

🤔 most controversial questions — and why.

🏫 Topics for High School Students
🎓 Topics for College Students

🔎 Controversial Research Topics

📝 Controversial Argumentative Topics

💼 Controversial Business Topics

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

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

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

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

❔ Should abortion be legalized around the world?

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

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

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

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

❔ Should capital punishment be canceled?

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

❔ To what degree should freedom of speech be protected?

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

❔ What measures should be taken to stop global warming?

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

This image shows the most controversial topics.

🏫 Controversial Topics for High School Students

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

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

🎓 Controversial Topics for College Students

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

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

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

Controversial Topics in Education

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

Controversial Psychology Topics

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

Controversial Criminal Justice Topics

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

Controversial Political Questions

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

Controversial Environmental Topics

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

📝 Controversial Argumentative Essay Topics

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

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

Controversial Questions About Art

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

Controversial History Questions

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

Controversial Opinion Questions

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

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

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

Controversial Topics in Business Management

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

Controversial Marketing Topics

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

This image shows examples of controversial marketing campaigns.

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

Controversial Nursing Topics

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

Controversial Public Health Topics

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

Controversial Medical Ethics Topics

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

Controversial Questions about Mental Health

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

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

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

Controversial Biology Topics

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

Controversial Engineering Topics

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

Controversial Chemistry Topics

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

This image shows controversial topics in science.

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

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

Moral Controversial Topics

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

Controversial Religious Topics

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

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

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

Random Controversial Questions

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

Controversial Sports Topics

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

Controversial Music Topics

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

Controversial Animal Topics

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

Social Media Controversial Topics

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

Controversial Relationship Questions

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

Controversial Food Questions

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

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

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

❓ Controversial Questions FAQ

What is a controversial topic.

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

What Are Some Controversial Questions?

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

How to Present a Controversial Topic?

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

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Controversial issues and current events, flint water crisis.

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

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

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Balanced, accurate discussions of over 250 controversial topics in the news along with chronologies, illustrations, maps, tables, sidebars, contact info, and bibliographies, including primary source documents and news editorials.

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255 Controversial Research Paper Topics & Ideas

18 January 2024

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Controversial research topics are often polarizing subjects at the intersection of science, ethics, and society. They can range from concerns about technological aspects to their ways of use, raising debates over privacy and the future of human labor. The field of neurobiology also hosts contentious discussions, such as the possibility of mind-reading and memory manipulation. The controversy around such research topics underscores the critical importance of maintaining a delicate balance between advancement and morality. Society needs to balance scientific progress and ethical boundaries, oftentimes facing resistance due to their revolutionary nature and potential for far-reaching impacts.

Hot Controversial Research Topics

Climate Change Predictions: Alarmist Propaganda or Scientific Reality?
Ethical Implications of Genetically Modified Organisms in Food Production
Autonomous Vehicles: Safety Paradigm Shift or Potential Hazard?
Artificial Intelligence and Job Displacement: Future Prospects
Income Inequality: Economical Necessity or Societal Flaw?
Internet Censorship: Protection or Infringement on Freedom?
Augmented Reality in Education: Potential Benefits and Drawbacks
Human Cloning: Medical Breakthrough or Ethical Dilemma?
Animal Experimentation: Scientific Necessity or Cruelty?
Mandatory Vaccination Policies: Public Health or Personal Rights?
Concealed Carry Laws: Increased Safety or Potential for Violence?
Social Media Addiction: Real Issue or Overblown Panic?
Cryptocurrency Regulation: Economic Stability or Threat to Innovation?
Privacy Concerns and Breaches in the Age of Big Data
Legalization of Euthanasia: Compassionate Choice or Slippery Slope?
Crisis in Affordable Housing: Policy Failures or Market Forces?
Alternative Medicine: Holistic Healing or Pseudoscientific Nonsense?
Online Learning Platforms: Revolutionizing Education or Widening the Gap?
Food Security and Genetically Engineered Crops: Pros and Cons
Bias in AI Systems: Unintended Consequence or Product of Design?

Simple Controversial Research Topics

Plastic Bags: Convenience or Ecological Disaster?
Mandatory School Uniforms: Educational Aid or Unfair Imposition?
Veganism: Health Trend or Ethical Necessity?
Internet Privacy: User Responsibility or Company Obligation?
Exotic Pets: Personal Passion or Ecological Threat?
Body Modifications: Personal Expression or Health Risk?
Space Exploration: Worthwhile Investment or Wasteful Expense?
Sex Education in Schools: Essential Curriculum or Parental Prerogative?
Celebrity Culture: Harmless Entertainment or Unhealthy Obsession?
Animal Rights: Welfare Issue or Human Responsibility?
Artificial Sweeteners: Healthy Alternative or Hidden Danger?
Nuclear Power: Energy Solution or Environmental Hazard?
Adoption Rights for Same-Sex Couples: Equality or Child Welfare Concern?
Fast Fashion: Economic Driver or Environmental Culprit?
Homeschooling: Parental Right or Educational Challenge?
Genetic Testing: Health Precaution or Ethical Minefield?
E-Sports: Genuine Sport or Mere Entertainment?
Minimum Wage Hikes: Economic Boost or Business Burden?
Daylight Saving Time: Energy Conservation or Unnecessary Inconvenience

Controversial Research Paper Topics & Ideas

Interesting Controversial Research Topics

Quantum Computing: Disruptive Innovation or Overhyped Technology?
Neuroplasticity and Mindfulness: Neuroscientific Reality or Pop Culture Myth?
Dark Matter: Astounding Discovery or Scientific Misconception?
Epigenetics in Disease Propagation: Cutting Edge Insight or Confounding Variable?
Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery: Panacea or Pandora’s Box?
Biometric Data in Surveillance: Privacy Implications and Ethical Dilemmas
Modern Technology: Ethical Boundaries in Genetic Editing
Artificial Superintelligence: Inevitable Future or Unfounded Fear?
Metamaterials in Stealth Technology: Transformative Development or Security Concern?
Technological Singularity: Feasible Possibility or Science Fiction?
Exoplanets and Possibility of Extraterrestrial Life: Scientific Probability or Wishful Thinking?
Consciousness and Quantum Physics: Valid Connection or Pseudoscientific Claim?
Bioinformatics in Personalized Medicine: Promising Progress or Unrealistic Promise?
Transhumanism: Ethical and Philosophical Implications
Cyber Warfare: Unseen Threat in the Digital Age
Teleportation in Quantum Mechanics: Theoretical Possibility or Sci-Fi Dream?
Neural Interfaces: Revolution in Human-Computer Interaction or Ethical Quandary?
Post-Quantum Cryptography: Securing Future Communication
Antimatter: Physics’ Most Expensive Substance and Its Potential Uses
Decoding Dark Energy: Unraveling the Universe’s Biggest Mystery

Captivating Controversial Research Topics

Multiverse Theory: Groundbreaking Concept or Unprovable Hypothesis?
Emerging Pathogens: Epidemiological Threats in the Anthropocene
Epigenetic Inheritance: Revolutionizing Understanding of Heredity
Quantum Entanglement: Implications for Faster-Than-Light Communication
Probing Panspermia: Cosmic Origin of Life on Earth?
Superconductivity at Room Temperature: Implications for Energy Transmission
Biological Immortality: Theoretical Possibility or Pseudoscientific Fantasy?
Mind Uploading: Digital Immortality or Ethical Nightmare?
Genome Editing in Human Embryos: Pioneering Medicine or Unethical Practice?
Artificial Photosynthesis: Renewable Energy’s Holy Grail?
Nootropics and Cognitive Enhancement: Neuroethical Considerations
Fusion Power: Realistic Path to Clean Energy or Technological Mirage?
Regenerative Medicine: Healing Potential or Ethical Quagmire?
Machine Consciousness: Technological Reality or Philosophical Conundrum?
Astrobiology and Extraterrestrial Intelligence: Probable Existence or Wishful Thinking?
Large Hadron Collider: Unraveling the Universe or Risking Its Destruction?
Genetically Modified Babies: Medical Breakthrough or Ethical Catastrophe?
Psychedelics in Mental Health Treatment: Revolution in Psychiatry or Reckless Approach?
Artificial Wombs and Ectogenesis: Futuristic Medicine or Ethical Minefield?
Synthetic Biology: Redefining Life or Crossing Dangerous Boundaries?

Amazing Controversial Research Topics

Climate Engineering: Solution to Global Warming or Dangerous Interference?
Designer Babies: Genetic Advancement or Unethical Practice?
Autonomous Drones: Security Innovation or Privacy Nightmare?
Quantum Encryption: Unbreakable Security or Potential Cyber Threat?
Time Travel: Scientific Possibility or Pure Fiction?
Biohacking: Human Enhancement or Ethical Quandary?
Space Tourism: Next Frontier or Excessive Luxury?
Cybernetic Implants: Futuristic Medicine or Invasion of Privacy?
Artificial General Intelligence: Next Technological Revolution or Existential Risk?
Cognitive Computing: Harnessing the Power of the Human Brain?
Extraterrestrial Mining: Space Opportunity or Environmental Hazard?
Nanobots in Medicine: The Future of Healing or Science Fiction?
Neuroprosthetics: Overcoming Disabilities or Ethical Minefield?
Mars Colonization: Humanity’s Future or Unattainable Fantasy?
Virtual Reality in Therapy: Healing Innovation or Potential Misuse?
Lab-Grown Meat: Sustainable Solution or Ethical Dilemma?
Psychedelics for Psychotherapy: Breakthrough or Dangerous Precedent?
Blockchain Beyond Cryptocurrency: Revolutionizing Industries?
Cyborg Technology: Blurring the Line Between Humans and Machines?
Hyperloop Transport: Future of Travel or Unrealistic Vision?

Impressive Controversial Research Topics

Human Longevity: Natural Limits or Extendable Lifespan?
Cybernetic Enhancement: Technological Progress or Ethical Dilemma?
Artificial Superintelligence: Salvation or Doomsday Device?
Interstellar Travel: Cosmic Ambition or Scientific Fiction?
Telepathy and Neuroscience: Brain-to-Brain Communication Possibility?
Climate Refugees: Addressing the Unseen Impact of Global Warming
Augmented Humans: Technological Advancement or Ethical Quagmire?
De-Extinction: Rewriting History or Upsetting Natural Order?
Nanotechnology in Environmental Clean-Up: Magic Solution or Hype?
Space Elevators: Revolutionary Concept or Impossible Construction?
Conscious Artificial Intelligence: Technological Achievement or Moral Catastrophe?
Biological Aging: Inevitable Process or Treatable Condition?
Mind Reading Technology: Breakthrough or Privacy Invasion?
Personalized Medicine: Individual Care or Discriminatory Practice?
Bioluminescent Plants: Natural Lighting Solution or Ecological Hazard?
Quantum Internet: Superfast Communication or Security Threat?
5G Technology: Next Generation Connectivity or Health Risk?
Human-Machine Fusion: Next Step in Evolution or Ethical Nightmare?
Bioengineered Organs: Pioneering Medicine or Uncharted Territory?

Controversial Research Topics for High School

School Uniforms: Suppressing Individuality or Promoting Discipline?
Social Media Influence: Shaping Identities or Breeding Narcissism?
Video Games: Creative Outlet or Violent Influence?
Censorship in Literature: Protecting Youth or Limiting Freedom?
Climate Change Education: Critical Knowledge or Political Indoctrination?
Cell Phone Use in Schools: Tool for Learning or Distraction?
College Admissions: Merit-Based or Biased?
Standardized Testing: Measuring Competence or Creating Stress?
Cyberbullying: Virtual Teasing or Real Harm?
Sexual Education: Comprehensive Information or Encouraging Promiscuity?
School Shootings: Gun Issue or Mental Health Crisis?
Junk Food in Schools: Personal Choice or Public Health Problem?
Competitive Sports in Schools: Building Character or Unnecessary Pressure?
Beauty Pageants: Celebrating Beauty or Promoting Sexism?
Student Privacy Rights: Essential Freedom or Safety Risk?
Intelligent Design in Schools: Alternate Theory or Religious Imposition?
Celebrity Role Models: Inspirational or Damaging?
Homeschooling vs. Traditional Schooling: Effective Education or Sheltered Learning?
Parental Monitoring: Necessary Supervision or Invasion of Privacy?
School Prayer: Freedom of Religion or Violation of Separation of Church and State?

Controversial Research Topics for Middle School

Animal Testing: Scientific Necessity or Cruelty?
Video Games: Harmful Distraction or Learning Tool?
School Uniforms: Unifying Dress Code or Freedom Restriction?
Social Media Usage: Fun Interaction or Potential Danger?
Climate Change: Real Threat or Scientific Misunderstanding?
Zoos: Educational Institutions or Animal Prisons?
Homework: Beneficial Practice or Unnecessary Burden?
Bullying: School Issue or Social Problem?
Fast Food: Convenient Meal or Health Hazard?
Music Lyrics: Artistic Expression or Harmful Influence?
Recycling: Environmental Duty or Waste of Time?
Veganism: Lifestyle Choice or Dietary Necessity?
Cell Phones in Class: Useful Tool or Distraction?
Violence in Cartoons: Harmless Humor or Negative Influence?
Exotic Pets: Fascinating Companions or Ecological Threat?
Single-Sex Schools: Better Learning Environment or Outdated Concept?
Competitive Sports: Healthy Activity or Too Much Pressure?
Reality TV Shows: Harmless Entertainment or Negative Influence?
School Lunches: Nutritional Balance or Junk Food Paradise?
Global Warming: Immediate Concern or Overstated Problem?

Controversial Research Topics for College Students

College Tuition: Fair Price or Financial Burden?
Internet Privacy: Fundamental Right or Luxury?
Artificial Intelligence: Technological Revolution or Threat to Jobs?
Legalizing Marijuana: Recreational Freedom or Gateway to Addiction?
Animal Rights vs. Medical Research: Where to Draw the Line?
Euthanasia: Compassionate Option or Ethical Dilemma?
Genetically Modified Foods: Solution to Hunger or Health Risk?
Privacy vs. Security: Balancing Act in the Digital Age?
Body Cameras for Police: Tool for Accountability or Privacy Invasion?
Globalization: Economic Boom or Cultural Erosion?
Student Loan Debt: Necessary Evil or Financial Trap?
Immigration Policies: Humanitarian Aid or National Security Concern?
Single-Use Plastics: Convenient Tool or Environmental Disaster?
Genetic Engineering: Medical Breakthrough or Playing God?
Capital Punishment: Effective Deterrent or Barbaric Practice?
Sex Education: Comprehensive Approach or Abstinence-Only?
Climate Change: Scientific Consensus or Politicized Issue?
Nuclear Energy: Sustainable Power Source or Environmental Hazard?
Freedom of Speech: Absolute Right or Subject to Limitations?

Controversial Research Topics for University

Net Neutrality: Free Access or Controlled Traffic?
Censorship in Media: Necessary Control or Freedom Infringement?
Religious Freedom vs. Discrimination: Balancing Act or Clear Boundary?
Genetically Modified Organisms: Food Security or Health Risk?
Animal Rights in Scientific Research: Unavoidable Sacrifice or Ethical Violation?
Cryptocurrency Regulation: Financial Innovation or Potential Fraud?
Fracking: Energy Solution or Environmental Disaster?
Big Data: Privacy Concern or Unavoidable Necessity?
Euthanasia: Compassionate Practice or Morally Unacceptable?
Artificial Intelligence: Ethical Implications and Accountability
Political Correctness: Respectful Language or Limitation of Speech?
Stem Cell Research: Medical Breakthrough or Ethical Dilemma?
Free College Education: Right or Privilege?
Cyber Warfare: Invisible Threat in Global Security
Minimum Wage: Economical Solution or Unemployment Risk?
Legalization of Recreational Drugs: Personal Freedom or Public Health Issue?
Torture for National Security: Justified Precaution or Human Rights Violation?
Artificial Meat: Sustainable Solution or Ethical Issue?
Self-Driving Cars: Future of Transportation or Safety Hazard?
Geoengineering: Climate Change Solution or Risky Manipulation?

Controversial Research Topics for Master’s

Cryptocurrency: Disruption in Financial Systems or Bubble Waiting to Burst?
Bioethics in Genetic Engineering: Navigating Uncharted Territory
Artificial Intelligence: Autonomy and Accountability Issues
Neuralink and Neuroethics: Implantable Brain-Machine Interfaces
Transhumanism: Technological Evolution or Ethical Nightmare?
Darknet Markets: Anonymity, Cryptocurrency, and Law Enforcement
Feminism in the 21st Century: Progress or Polarization?
Climate Change Mitigation: Technological Solutions vs. Behavioral Change
Digital Privacy: Balancing National Security and Individual Rights
Space Law: Ownership, Exploitation, and Settlement of Extraterrestrial Bodies
Immortality through Science: Possibility or Ethical Conundrum?
Psychology of Radicalization: Pathways to Extremism
Alternative Energy: Viability of Nuclear Fusion Power
Biometrics: Security Advancement or Privacy Invasion?
Robot Ethics: Machine Morality in an Automated World
Future of Work: Impact of Automation and AI on Labor Market
Cyber Diplomacy: Politics in the Age of Information Warfare
Internet of Things: Security Implications and Regulatory Measures
Anthropocene Era: Human Activity and Earth’s Geology

Controversial Research Topics for Ph.D.

Quantum Computing: Revolutionary Technology or Hyped Potential?
Geoengineering: Mitigating Climate Change or Playing God?
Nanomedicine: Frontier of Healthcare or Pandora’s Box?
Artificial Superintelligence: Technological Singularity or Existential Threat?
Space Colonization: Humanity’s Destiny or Fantasy?
Epigenomics: Unveiling the Complexity of Life Beyond Genetics
Neuroplasticity: The Brain’s Adaptability or Myth?
Cyber Autonomy: Security Implications and Strategic Concerns
Xenotransplantation: Medical Breakthrough or Biological Time Bomb?
Bioinformatics in Personalized Medicine: Promise or Peril?
Crispr Gene-Editing: Revolutionizing Medicine or Ethical Minefield?
Deep Learning Algorithms: Pathway to AI or Black Box Mystery?
Holography in Data Storage: Future of Information or Overambitious Idea?
Teleportation: Quantum Physics Breakthrough or Science Fiction?
Dark Energy and the Expanding Universe: Unveiling Cosmic Mysteries
Artificial Wombs: Potential in Reproductive Medicine or Ethical Dilemma?
Technological Singularity: Inevitable Future or Pseudoscientific Prediction?
Quantum Gravity: Unifying Theory or Theoretical Mirage?
Posthumanism: Philosophical Discourse in the Age of Technological Transformation
Decoding Consciousness: Neuroscience’s Biggest Challenge or Philosophical Conundrum?

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A Research Guide
Research Paper Topics

30 Controversial Research Paper Topics

Read also: How to make a research paper for college.

Abortions: pro-life, pro-choice or the third option?
Shall kids from the religious families choose their religion when they grow up?
Military veterans: do they really feel better in the civilian life or shall they return to war?
Child transitioning: shall it be allowed?
Is civil marriage a marriage too?
Shall national cultures be preserved in the age of globalization?
Homeopathy: a traditional remedy or a fraud?
Are single parents still ostracized by the society?
Can the convicted criminals return to the ordinary life after prison?
Can euthanasia count as palliative treatment?
Did Stalin raised the USSR from the economical abyss?
Can human cloning be allowed?
Teenage marriages: are there cases when they are justified?
The limits of self-defence
Where are the limits of harassment?
Can all the religions be merged into the universal one to stop the religion wars?
Modern beauty standards: a way to the healthy body or self-esteem killers?
Do churches become business now?
Can censorship be justified when national security is endangered?
Freedom versus safety: how much control shall government have over our lives?
Single-sex schools: raising ladies and gentlemen or isolating kids from each other?
Does sex still sell? Tapping on our primal instincts in advertising
The ethics of surrogate motherhood
Is sex work an actual work? Legalisation of prostitution: pros and cons
Shall cursing people and using black magic be a criminal offense as psychological assault?
What measures are justified when fighting terrorism?
Is obesity the new norm?
Shall we welcome all the immigrants and refugees?
Living vegan: is it good for health?
Can someone invent a new religion just for personal purposes?

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100+ Controversial Research Topics and Ideas to Focus On

Table of Contents

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

Controversial Research Paper Topic Selection

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

Step 1: Find Something Inspirational

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

Step 2: Narrow Down Your Ideas

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

Step 3: Explore The Counter Arguments

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

Step 4: Find Unusual Facts

Research the unusual facts that can strengthen your paper.

Choose the topic that meets all these criteria.

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

Controversial Research Paper Writing Tips

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

1. Research Your Topic from Different Perspectives

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

2. Use Your Language Tactfully

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

3. Allow readers to think

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

List of the Best Controversial Research Topics

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

Controversial Research Topics for College Students

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

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

Controversial Research Topics For High School Students

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

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

Controversial Topics For Research Scholars

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

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

Amazing Controversial Research Topics

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

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

Captivating Controversial Research Ideas

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

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

Impressive Controversial Research Questions

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

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

Classic Controversial Topics for Research

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

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

Excellent Controversial Research Ideas

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

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

Wrapping Up

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

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

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

220 Amazing Religious Research Paper Topics and Ideas

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50 Argumentative Essay Topics

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

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

Choosing a Great Argumentative Essay Topic

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

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

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

Ideas for Argument Essays

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

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

50 Possible Topics

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

Is global climate change caused by humans?
Is the death penalty effective?
Is our election process fair?
Is torture ever acceptable?
Should men get paternity leave from work?
Are school uniforms beneficial?
Do we have a fair tax system?
Do curfews keep teens out of trouble?
Is cheating out of control?
Are we too dependent on computers?
Should animals be used for research?
Should cigarette smoking be banned?
Are cell phones dangerous?
Are law enforcement cameras an invasion of privacy?
Do we have a throwaway society?
Is child behavior better or worse than it was years ago?
Should companies market to children?
Should the government have a say in our diets?
Does access to condoms prevent teen pregnancy?
Should members of Congress have term limits?
Are actors and professional athletes paid too much?
Are CEOs paid too much?
Should athletes be held to high moral standards?
Do violent video games cause behavior problems?
Should creationism be taught in public schools?
Are beauty pageants exploitative ?
Should English be the official language of the United States?
Should the racing industry be forced to use biofuels?
Should the alcohol drinking age be increased or decreased?
Should everyone be required to recycle?
Is it okay for prisoners to vote (as they are in some states)?
Is it good that same-sex couples are able to marry?
Are there benefits to attending a single-sex school ?
Does boredom lead to trouble?
Should schools be in session year-round ?
Does religion cause war?
Should the government provide health care?
Should abortion be illegal?
Are girls too mean to each other?
Is homework harmful or helpful?
Is the cost of college too high?
Is college admission too competitive?
Should euthanasia be illegal?
Should the federal government legalize marijuana use nationally ?
Should rich people be required to pay more taxes?
Should schools require foreign language or physical education?
Is affirmative action fair?
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The 30 Most Controversial Topics for Your Position Paper

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

The Top 30 Controversial Topics

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

Trump and the Big Lie

Women’s Rights

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What is a controversial topic?

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

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

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

The 30 Most Controversial Topics Over the Last 25 Years

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

Learn more about the Civil Rights Controversy.

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

Learn more about the Censorship and Freedom of Speech Controversy.

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

Learn more about the Climate Change Controversy.

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

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

Learn more about the Death Penalty and Capital Punishment Controversy.

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

Learn more about the Abortion Controversy.

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

Learn more about the Social Security Controversy.

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

Learn more about the Artificial Intelligence Controversy.

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

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

Learn more about the Health Insurance Controversy.

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

Learn more about the Women’s Rights Controversy.

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

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

Learn more about the Religious Freedom Controversy.

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

Learn more about the Minimum Wage Controversy.

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

Learn more about the Atheism Controversy.

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

Learn more about the Reparations Controversy.

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

Learn more about the Hacking Controversy.

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

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

Learn more about the Labor Unions Controversy.

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

Learn more about the Extremism Controversy.

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

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

Learn more about the Electoral College Controversy.

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

Learn more about the Vaccines Controversy.

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

Learn more about the Outsourcing Controversy.

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

Learn more about the Gun Control Controversy.

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

Learn more about the Foreign Aid Controversy.

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

Learn more about the Nuclear Energy Controversy.

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

Learn more about the Police Brutality Controversy.

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

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

Learn more about the Affirmative Action Controversy.

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

Learn more about the Charter Schools Controversy.

Trump and the “Big Lie”

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

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

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

Learn more about the Black Lives Matter Movement .

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

Learn more about the COVID Vaccine Mandates Controversy .

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

Learn more about the Critical Race Theory Controversy:

Controversial Topic: Critical Race Theory
Critical Race Theorists

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

Learn more about the Marijuana Legalization Controversy .

How Did We Choose these Controversies?

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

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

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

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

What’s Missing and Why?

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

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

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

Limitations

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

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

Digging Into Controversy: How We Do It

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

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

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

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

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

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

Select a Research Topic: Current Events and Controversial Issues

Finding a Research Topic
Current Events and Controversial Issues
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Engineering
Health Sciences
Mathematics & Physics
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Political Science
Social Work
Research Topic Guides

Food for Thought

When writing on controversial issues, exercise caution when considering a topic that has the potential to be overdone. Issues such as gun control, abortion, corporal punishment, etc. have been written about so much for so long that it may be difficult to find something new to add to the conversation. Here are a few databases that have extensive browse for topic features:

Why search here? The place to go to prepare for a debate, discussion, research paper, or persuasive writing assignment.
What's included? Explores more than 800 hot topics in business, politics, government, education, and popular culture..

Why search here? This database centers on the key social issues of our time.
What's included? Opposing Viewpoints is a rich resource for debaters and includes viewpoints, reference articles, infographics, news, images, video, audio, and more.
Why search here? Contains resources that present multiple sides of an issue.
What's included? Points of View Reference Center contains many topics, each with an overview (objective background/description), point (argument) and counterpoint (opposing argument). For each topic, this database also offers a Guide to Critical Analysis, which helps the reader evaluate the controversial topics.

Controversial Issues

Abstinence only education
Affirmative Action
Alternative medicine
America's global influence
Animal Testing
Artificial intelligence
Assisted suicide
Bilingual education
Book banning
Capital punishment
Charter schools
Childhood obesity
Civil rights
Climate change
Concealed weapons
Cryptocurrency
Cyber bullying
Death penalty
Drug legalization
Eating disorders
Energy crisis
Ethnic Adoption
Factory farming
Foreign aid
Freedom of speech
Genetic Cloning
Genetic engineering
Hacking
Health insurance
Human Trafficking
Identity theft
Immigration
Labor unions
Local food movement
Mandatory National Service
Minimum wage
Nuclear energy
Organic food
Offshore drilling
Outsourcing
Plastic Surgery
Racial profiling
Recreational Marijuana
Roe v. Wade
School safety
School uniforms
Second Amendment
Self-defense laws
Self-driving cars
Sex education
Social security
Standardized testing
Student Loan Debt
Urban agriculture
Violence in the media
Women's rights
Zero tolerance policies

Current Events

2020 Census
Affordable Care Act
Afghanistan crisis
Arming teachers
Black Lives Matter
Brazil political crisis
Confederate memorials
COVID-19 vaccines & mandates
Cybersecurity
Electoral College
Equal Rights Amendment
Federal interest rates
Filibuster
Gender nutral restrooms
Gerrymandering
Government shut down
Hate speech
Hydraulic fracturing (fracking)
Impeachment
Internet privacy
Iran nuclear deal
Islamophobia
Lethal Injections
Marijuana legalization
Mass incarceration
Mass shooting
Medical Devices
Me Too movement
Migrant crisis
Mueller Report
Net neutrality
North Dakota Access Pipeline
North Korea
Paris Climate Agreement
Planned Parenthood
Poverty gap
Prescription drug addiction
Racism in America
Refugee crisis
Russian hacking
Sanctuary city
School violence
Sexual assault on campus
Supreme Court Justice oversight
Syrian civil war
Transgender rights
Trump, Donald
UK leaving EU (Brexit)
Vaccination
Voter fraud
Voting laws
Warehouse Working Conditions (Amazon, UPS, Walmart)
White nationalism
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Last Updated: Jun 13, 2023 11:38 AM
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130 New Prompts for Argumentative Writing

Questions on everything from mental health and sports to video games and dating. Which ones inspire you to take a stand?

By The Learning Network

Note: We have an updated version of this list, with 300 new argumentative writing prompts .

What issues do you care most about? What topics do you find yourself discussing passionately, whether online, at the dinner table, in the classroom or with your friends?

In Unit 5 of our free yearlong writing curriculum and related Student Editorial Contest , we invite students to research and write about the issues that matter to them, whether that’s Shakespeare , health care , standardized testing or being messy .

But with so many possibilities, where does one even begin? Try our student writing prompts.

In 2017, we compiled a list of 401 argumentative writing prompts , all drawn from our daily Student Opinion column . Now, we’re rounding up 130 more we’ve published since then ( available here as a PDF ). Each prompt links to a free Times article as well as additional subquestions that can help you think more deeply about it.

You might use this list to inspire your own writing and to find links to reliable resources about the issues that intrigue you. But even if you’re not participating in our contest, you can use these prompts to practice the kind of low-stakes writing that can help you hone your argumentation skills.

So scroll through the list below with questions on everything from sports and mental health to dating and video games and see which ones inspire you to take a stand.

Please note: Many of these prompts are still open to comment by students 13 and up.

Technology & Social Media

1. Do Memes Make the Internet a Better Place? 2. Does Online Public Shaming Prevent Us From Being Able to Grow and Change? 3. How Young Is Too Young to Use Social Media? 4. Should the Adults in Your Life Be Worried by How Much You Use Your Phone? 5. Is Your Phone Love Hurting Your Relationships? 6. Should Kids Be Social Media Influencers? 7. Does Grammar Still Matter in the Age of Twitter? 8. Should Texting While Driving Be Treated Like Drunken Driving? 9. How Do You Think Technology Affects Dating?

10. Are Straight A’s Always a Good Thing? 11. Should Schools Teach You How to Be Happy? 12. How Do You Think American Education Could Be Improved? 13. Should Schools Test Their Students for Nicotine and Drug Use? 14. Can Social Media Be a Tool for Learning and Growth in Schools? 15. Should Facial Recognition Technology Be Used in Schools? 16. Should Your School Day Start Later? 17. How Should Senior Year in High School Be Spent? 18. Should Teachers Be Armed With Guns? 19. Is School a Place for Self-Expression? 20. Should Students Be Punished for Not Having Lunch Money? 21. Is Live-Streaming Classrooms a Good Idea? 22. Should Gifted and Talented Education Be Eliminated? 23. What Are the Most Important Things Students Should Learn in School? 24. Should Schools Be Allowed to Censor Student Newspapers? 25. Do You Feel Your School and Teachers Welcome Both Conservative and Liberal Points of View? 26. Should Teachers and Professors Ban Student Use of Laptops in Class? 27. Should Schools Teach About Climate Change? 28. Should All Schools Offer Music Programs? 29. Does Your School Need More Money? 30. Should All Schools Teach Cursive? 31. What Role Should Textbooks Play in Education? 32. Do Kids Need Recess?

College & Career

33. What Is Your Reaction to the College Admissions Cheating Scandal? 34. Is the College Admissions Process Fair? 35. Should Everyone Go to College? 36. Should College Be Free? 37. Are Lavish Amenities on College Campuses Useful or Frivolous? 38. Should ‘Despised Dissenters’ Be Allowed to Speak on College Campuses? 39. How Should the Problem of Sexual Assault on Campuses Be Addressed? 40. Should Fraternities Be Abolished? 41. Is Student Debt Worth It?

Mental & Physical Health

42. Should Students Get Mental Health Days Off From School? 43. Is Struggle Essential to Happiness? 44. Does Every Country Need a ‘Loneliness Minister’? 45. Should Schools Teach Mindfulness? 46. Should All Children Be Vaccinated? 47. What Do You Think About Vegetarianism? 48. Do We Worry Too Much About Germs? 49. What Advice Should Parents and Counselors Give Teenagers About Sexting? 50. Do You Think Porn Influences the Way Teenagers Think About Sex?

Race & Gender

51. How Should Parents Teach Their Children About Race and Racism? 52. Is America ‘Backsliding’ on Race? 53. Should All Americans Receive Anti-Bias Education? 54. Should All Companies Require Anti-Bias Training for Employees? 55. Should Columbus Day Be Replaced With Indigenous Peoples Day? 56. Is Fear of ‘The Other’ Poisoning Public Life? 57. Should the Boy Scouts Be Coed? 58. What Is Hard About Being a Boy?

59. Can You Separate Art From the Artist? 60. Are There Subjects That Should Be Off-Limits to Artists, or to Certain Artists in Particular? 61. Should Art Come With Trigger Warnings? 62. Should Graffiti Be Protected? 63. Is the Digital Era Improving or Ruining the Experience of Art? 64. Are Museums Still Important in the Digital Age? 65. In the Age of Digital Streaming, Are Movie Theaters Still Relevant? 66. Is Hollywood Becoming More Diverse? 67. What Stereotypical Characters Make You Cringe? 68. Do We Need More Female Superheroes? 69. Do Video Games Deserve the Bad Rap They Often Get? 70. Should Musicians Be Allowed to Copy or Borrow From Other Artists? 71. Is Listening to a Book Just as Good as Reading It? 72. Is There Any Benefit to Reading Books You Hate?

73. Should Girls and Boys Sports Teams Compete in the Same League? 74. Should College Athletes Be Paid? 75. Are Youth Sports Too Competitive? 76. Is It Selfish to Pursue Risky Sports Like Extreme Mountain Climbing? 77. How Should We Punish Sports Cheaters? 78. Should Technology in Sports Be Limited? 79. Should Blowouts Be Allowed in Youth Sports? 80. Is It Offensive for Sports Teams and Their Fans to Use Native American Names, Imagery and Gestures?

81. Is It Wrong to Focus on Animal Welfare When Humans Are Suffering? 82. Should Extinct Animals Be Resurrected? If So, Which Ones? 83. Are Emotional-Support Animals a Scam? 84. Is Animal Testing Ever Justified? 85. Should We Be Concerned With Where We Get Our Pets? 86. Is This Exhibit Animal Cruelty or Art?

Parenting & Childhood

87. Who Should Decide Whether a Teenager Can Get a Tattoo or Piercing? 88. Is It Harder to Grow Up in the 21st Century Than It Was in the Past? 89. Should Parents Track Their Teenager’s Location? 90. Is Childhood Today Over-Supervised? 91. How Should Parents Talk to Their Children About Drugs? 92. What Should We Call Your Generation? 93. Do Other People Care Too Much About Your Post-High School Plans? 94. Do Parents Ever Cross a Line by Helping Too Much With Schoolwork? 95. What’s the Best Way to Discipline Children? 96. What Are Your Thoughts on ‘Snowplow Parents’? 97. Should Stay-at-Home Parents Be Paid? 98. When Do You Become an Adult?

Ethics & Morality

99. Why Do Bystanders Sometimes Fail to Help When They See Someone in Danger? 100. Is It Ethical to Create Genetically Edited Humans? 101. Should Reporters Ever Help the People They Are Covering? 102. Is It O.K. to Use Family Connections to Get a Job? 103. Is $1 Billion Too Much Money for Any One Person to Have? 104. Are We Being Bad Citizens If We Don’t Keep Up With the News? 105. Should Prisons Offer Incarcerated People Education Opportunities? 106. Should Law Enforcement Be Able to Use DNA Data From Genealogy Websites for Criminal Investigations? 107. Should We Treat Robots Like People?

Government & Politics

108. Does the United States Owe Reparations to the Descendants of Enslaved People? 109. Do You Think It Is Important for Teenagers to Participate in Political Activism? 110. Should the Voting Age Be Lowered to 16? 111. What Should Lawmakers Do About Guns and Gun Violence? 112. Should Confederate Statues Be Removed or Remain in Place? 113. Does the U.S. Constitution Need an Equal Rights Amendment? 114. Should National Monuments Be Protected by the Government? 115. Should Free Speech Protections Include Self Expression That Discriminates? 116. How Important Is Freedom of the Press? 117. Should Ex-Felons Have the Right to Vote? 118. Should Marijuana Be Legal? 119. Should the United States Abolish Daylight Saving Time? 120. Should We Abolish the Death Penalty? 121. Should the U.S. Ban Military-Style Semiautomatic Weapons? 122. Should the U.S. Get Rid of the Electoral College? 123. What Do You Think of President Trump’s Use of Twitter? 124. Should Celebrities Weigh In on Politics? 125. Why Is It Important for People With Different Political Beliefs to Talk to Each Other?

Choose Your Test

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

General Education

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

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

What Makes a Good Research Paper Topic?

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

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

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

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

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

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

#3: It Fits Your Teacher's Guidelines

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

113 Good Research Paper Topics

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

Arts/Culture

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

Current Events

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

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

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

Science/Environment

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

How to Write a Great Research Paper

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

#1: Figure Out Your Thesis Early

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

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

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

#2: Back Every Statement Up With Research

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

#3: Do Your Research Before You Begin Writing

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

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

What's Next?

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

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Controversial Topics: Home

Getting started, how do you gather information when you are assigned a speech or research paper on a controversial topic .

This guide will help you locate broad topics of interest and then help you narrow down your main topic, examine different viewpoints, find statistical information to back up your argument, and help you find journal, magazine, newspaper, and Internet sites of good authority. By using this guide, you will be able to give or write a thoroughly researched speech or paper conveying your point of view intelligently on the controversial topic you have selected.

Find Articles

Using the library databases will help you locate newspaper, magazine, and scholarly journal articles.

Search for Books in the OCC Library

This search box will allow you to search the OCC Library for books. More information here.

Topic Ideas

Controversial topics.

Universal health care
Freedom of speech and social media
Ethics of cloning humans
The US military and the arms trade
Cultural appropriation
Censorship in China
Political corruption
Animal testing
Workplace automation
Internet privacy
Income inequality
Technology and police tracking
Military use of drones
Globalism vs isolationism
Socialism vs capitalism
Birthright citizenship
Offshore drilling
Domestic surveillance
Universal basic income
Foreign interference in elections
Police shootings
Effectiveness of political protests
Internet activism
Microplastics in the ocean

Need more suggestions for picking a topic?

Take a look at the Picking a Topic research guide for information on how to choose a topic, narrowing your topic, and the initial research steps.

Last Updated: Jan 2, 2024 1:13 PM
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77 interesting medical research topics for 2024

Last updated

25 November 2023

Reviewed by

Brittany Ferri, PhD, OTR/L

Medical research is the gateway to improved patient care and expanding our available treatment options. However, finding a relevant and compelling research topic can be challenging.

Use this article as a jumping-off point to select an interesting medical research topic for your next paper or clinical study.

How to choose a medical research topic

When choosing a research topic, it’s essential to consider a couple of things. What topics interest you? What unanswered questions do you want to address?

During the decision-making and brainstorming process, here are a few helpful tips to help you pick the right medical research topic:

Focus on a particular field of study

The best medical research is specific to a particular area. Generalized studies are often too broad to produce meaningful results, so we advise picking a specific niche early in the process.

Maybe a certain topic interests you, or your industry knowledge reveals areas of need.

Look into commonly researched topics

Once you’ve chosen your research field, do some preliminary research. What have other academics done in their papers and projects?

From this list, you can focus on specific topics that interest you without accidentally creating a copycat project. This groundwork will also help you uncover any literature gaps—those may be beneficial areas for research.

Get curious and ask questions

Now you can get curious. Ask questions that start with why, how, or what. These questions are the starting point of your project design and will act as your guiding light throughout the process.

For example:

What impact does pollution have on children’s lung function in inner-city neighborhoods?

Why is pollution-based asthma on the rise?

How can we address pollution-induced asthma in young children?

77 medical research topics worth exploring in 2023

Need some research inspiration for your upcoming paper or clinical study? We’ve compiled a list of 77 topical and in-demand medical research ideas. Let’s take a look.

Exciting new medical research topics

If you want to study cutting-edge topics, here are some exciting options:

COVID-19 and long COVID symptoms

Since 2020, COVID-19 has been a hot-button topic in medicine, along with the long-term symptoms in those with a history of COVID-19.

Examples of COVID-19-related research topics worth exploring include:

The long-term impact of COVID-19 on cardiac and respiratory health

COVID-19 vaccination rates

The evolution of COVID-19 symptoms over time

New variants and strains of the COVID-19 virus

Changes in social behavior and public health regulations amid COVID-19

Vaccinations

Finding ways to cure or reduce the disease burden of chronic infectious diseases is a crucial research area. Vaccination is a powerful option and a great topic to research.

Examples of vaccination-related research topics include:

mRNA vaccines for viral infections

Biomaterial vaccination capabilities

Vaccination rates based on location, ethnicity, or age

Public opinion about vaccination safety

Artificial tissues fabrication

With the need for donor organs increasing, finding ways to fabricate artificial bioactive tissues (and possibly organs) is a popular research area.

Examples of artificial tissue-related research topics you can study include:

The viability of artificially printed tissues

Tissue substrate and building block material studies

The ethics and efficacy of artificial tissue creation

Medical research topics for medical students

For many medical students, research is a big driver for entering healthcare. If you’re a medical student looking for a research topic, here are some great ideas to work from:

Sleep disorders

Poor sleep quality is a growing problem, and it can significantly impact a person’s overall health.

Examples of sleep disorder-related research topics include:

How stress affects sleep quality

The prevalence and impact of insomnia on patients with mental health conditions

Possible triggers for sleep disorder development

The impact of poor sleep quality on psychological and physical health

How melatonin supplements impact sleep quality

Alzheimer’s and dementia

Cognitive conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are on the rise worldwide. They currently have no cure. As a result, research about these topics is in high demand.

Examples of dementia-related research topics you could explore include:

The prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease in a chosen population

Early onset symptoms of dementia

Possible triggers or causes of cognitive decline with age

Treatment options for dementia-like conditions

The mental and physical burden of caregiving for patients with dementia

Lifestyle habits and public health

Modern lifestyles have profoundly impacted the average person’s daily habits, and plenty of interesting topics explore its effects.

Examples of lifestyle and public health-related research topics include:

The nutritional intake of college students

The impact of chronic work stress on overall health

The rise of upper back and neck pain from laptop use

Prevalence and cause of repetitive strain injuries (RSI)

Controversial medical research paper topics

Medical research is a hotbed of controversial topics, content, and areas of study.

If you want to explore a more niche (and attention-grabbing) concept, here are some controversial medical research topics worth looking into:

The benefits and risks of medical cannabis

Depending on where you live, the legalization and use of cannabis for medical conditions is controversial for the general public and healthcare providers.

Examples of medical cannabis-related research topics that might grab your attention include:

The legalization process of medical cannabis

The impact of cannabis use on developmental milestones in youth users

Cannabis and mental health diagnoses

CBD’s impact on chronic pain

Prevalence of cannabis use in young people

The impact of maternal cannabis use on fetal development

Understanding how THC impacts cognitive function

Human genetics

The Human Genome Project identified, mapped, and sequenced all human DNA genes. Its completion in 2003 opened up a world of exciting and controversial studies in human genetics.

Examples of human genetics-related research topics worth delving into include:

Medical genetics and the incidence of genetic-based health disorders

Behavioral genetics differences between identical twins

Genetic risk factors for neurodegenerative disorders

Machine learning technologies for genetic research

Sexual health studies

Human sexuality and sexual health are important (yet often stigmatized) medical topics that need new research and analysis.

As a diverse field ranging from sexual orientation studies to sexual pathophysiology, examples of sexual health-related research topics include:

The incidence of sexually transmitted infections within a chosen population

Mental health conditions within the LGBTQIA+ community

The impact of untreated sexually transmitted infections

Access to safe sex resources (condoms, dental dams, etc.) in rural areas

Health and wellness research topics

Human wellness and health are trendy topics in modern medicine as more people are interested in finding natural ways to live healthier lifestyles.

If this field of study interests you, here are some big topics in the wellness space:

Gluten sensitivity

Gluten allergies and intolerances have risen over the past few decades. If you’re interested in exploring this topic, your options range in severity from mild gastrointestinal symptoms to full-blown anaphylaxis.

Some examples of gluten sensitivity-related research topics include:

The pathophysiology and incidence of Celiac disease

Early onset symptoms of gluten intolerance

The prevalence of gluten allergies within a set population

Gluten allergies and the incidence of other gastrointestinal health conditions

Pollution and lung health

Living in large urban cities means regular exposure to high levels of pollutants.

As more people become interested in protecting their lung health, examples of impactful lung health and pollution-related research topics include:

The extent of pollution in densely packed urban areas

The prevalence of pollution-based asthma in a set population

Lung capacity and function in young people

The benefits and risks of steroid therapy for asthma

Pollution risks based on geographical location

Plant-based diets

Plant-based diets like vegan and paleo diets are emerging trends in healthcare due to their limited supporting research.

If you’re interested in learning more about the potential benefits or risks of holistic, diet-based medicine, examples of plant-based diet research topics to explore include:

Vegan and plant-based diets as part of disease management

Potential risks and benefits of specific plant-based diets

Plant-based diets and their impact on body mass index

The effect of diet and lifestyle on chronic disease management

Health supplements

Supplements are a multi-billion dollar industry. Many health-conscious people take supplements, including vitamins, minerals, herbal medicine, and more.

Examples of health supplement-related research topics worth investigating include:

Omega-3 fish oil safety and efficacy for cardiac patients

The benefits and risks of regular vitamin D supplementation

Health supplementation regulation and product quality

The impact of social influencer marketing on consumer supplement practices

Analyzing added ingredients in protein powders

Healthcare research topics

Working within the healthcare industry means you have insider knowledge and opportunity. Maybe you’d like to research the overall system, administration, and inherent biases that disrupt access to quality care.

While these topics are essential to explore, it is important to note that these studies usually require approval and oversight from an Institutional Review Board (IRB). This ensures the study is ethical and does not harm any subjects.

For this reason, the IRB sets protocols that require additional planning, so consider this when mapping out your study’s timeline.

Here are some examples of trending healthcare research areas worth pursuing:

The pros and cons of electronic health records

The rise of electronic healthcare charting and records has forever changed how medical professionals and patients interact with their health data.

Examples of electronic health record-related research topics include:

The number of medication errors reported during a software switch

Nurse sentiment analysis of electronic charting practices

Ethical and legal studies into encrypting and storing personal health data

Inequities within healthcare access

Many barriers inhibit people from accessing the quality medical care they need. These issues result in health disparities and injustices.

Examples of research topics about health inequities include:

The impact of social determinants of health in a set population

Early and late-stage cancer stage diagnosis in urban vs. rural populations

Affordability of life-saving medications

Health insurance limitations and their impact on overall health

Diagnostic and treatment rates across ethnicities

People who belong to an ethnic minority are more likely to experience barriers and restrictions when trying to receive quality medical care. This is due to systemic healthcare racism and bias.

As a result, diagnostic and treatment rates in minority populations are a hot-button field of research. Examples of ethnicity-based research topics include:

Cancer biopsy rates in BIPOC women

The prevalence of diabetes in Indigenous communities

Access inequalities in women’s health preventative screenings

The prevalence of undiagnosed hypertension in Black populations

Pharmaceutical research topics

Large pharmaceutical companies are incredibly interested in investing in research to learn more about potential cures and treatments for diseases.

If you’re interested in building a career in pharmaceutical research, here are a few examples of in-demand research topics:

Cancer treatment options

Clinical research is in high demand as pharmaceutical companies explore novel cancer treatment options outside of chemotherapy and radiation.

Examples of cancer treatment-related research topics include:

Stem cell therapy for cancer

Oncogenic gene dysregulation and its impact on disease

Cancer-causing viral agents and their risks

Treatment efficacy based on early vs. late-stage cancer diagnosis

Cancer vaccines and targeted therapies

Immunotherapy for cancer

Pain medication alternatives

Historically, opioid medications were the primary treatment for short- and long-term pain. But, with the opioid epidemic getting worse, the need for alternative pain medications has never been more urgent.

Examples of pain medication-related research topics include:

Opioid withdrawal symptoms and risks

Early signs of pain medication misuse

Anti-inflammatory medications for pain control

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205 Controversial Topics for your Essay, Speech, or Debate

Amanda Green was born in a small town in the west of Scotland, where everyone knows everyone. I joined the Toastmasters 15 years ago, and I served in nearly every office in the club since then. I love helping others gain confidence and skills they can apply in every day life.

Do you think social media platforms should censor politicians? No matter how important you feel this issue is relative to other issues of the day, you’re likely to have an opinion one way or the other. Why? Because it’s a controversial matter, and it immediately pushes some buttons in our brains.

What makes issues like this so engaging?

Controversial topics have two features that almost instantly grab people’s attention. On one side, they are both simple and familiar, and so are understandable without any effort. On the other side, they touch on sensitive matters that society as a whole has not yet come to terms with. This makes them tickle our inherent desire for closure. We want to make up our minds once and for all!

So if you’re looking for such a topic for your essay, speech, or debate, you’ve come to the right place!

We’ve compiled a list of hundreds of controversial issues organized by subject matter (You can visit our page on how to write a persuasive controversial essay if you want to improve your base skills). Whether you’re trying to come up with a topic for your science, psychology, history class – or nearly any other topic! – you’re sure to find an issue below that will keep your audience engaged, and even stir up some discussion.

In this article:

Political Debate Topics

Controversial criminal justice topics, controversial religious topics, controversial topics for teens, controversial science topics, controversial sports topics, controversial food topics, controversial nutrition topics, controversial animal topics, controversial topics in psychology, controversial relationship topics, controversial medical topics, controversial topics in nursing, controversial topics in biology, music controversial topics, controversial art topics, controversial history topics, funny controversial topics, what are the pros and cons of controversial topics.

As mentioned earlier, picking a controversial topic almost guarantees that you’ll command your audience’s attention. But such issues have downsides too. We go over the advantages and disadvantages of hot-button issues to help you make the right choice for your essay, speech, or debate.

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Immediately engaging – Your readers or listeners are unlikely to doze off.
Easy to find information on – You won’t have to look far to find credible information on controversial issues.
Likely to keep you absorbed while researching – What’s interesting for your audience will probably keep boredom at bay for you too.
Too sensitive for some people – These issues often have a strong emotional charge and may even be taboo for some, causing awkward situations.
Hard to review all points – A huge debate has probably been raging on such topics, so it’s not so easy to cover all your bases and appear knowledgeable on the issue at hand.
Hard to wrap up – These matters are controversial for a reason. It may be hard to come to a satisfactory conclusion, whether you’re presenting or debating.

Interesting Controversial Topics by Field

Below, we’ve compiled a catalog of fascinating controversial topics by field. Keep in mind that many of these spill over from one category to another, so there is some overlap. Is climate change a political or scientific issue? There’s a controversial question for you!

Controversy is where politics are born. There’s usually some point of disagreement about any matter related to public affairs – that’s why a politician’s main job is to debate and come to an agreement (ideally) on how to handle these issues. Or, as political scientist Harold Lasswell put it succinctly, politics is, “Who gets what, when, how.”

So political issues are controversial by definition. We’ve worked hard to provide you with the longest, most comprehensive list you’ll find anywhere, and any of these topics may be instantly captivating.

Is democracy the best form of government?
Should there be a minimum wage?
Should the government intervene in the free market?
Should the US government intervene in foreign affairs?
Should there be term limits for US senators?
Should the Electoral College be abolished in the US?
Are there exceptions to the freedom of speech?
Should hate speech be banned?
Should the government ensure the protection of privacy?
Is the gender pay gap real?
Does institutional racism exist in the US?
Is affirmative action helping or hurting?
Is immigration helping or hurting the US?
Should all illicit drugs be legalized?
Should prostitution be legalized?
Should abortion be banned?
Should there be stricter gun control laws?
Should automatic weapons be banned?
Should military service be mandatory?
Should water be a commodity or a human right?
Should the government forgive all student debt?

Is justice being served? Few things get under people’s skin as much as perceived injustices. We are more or less programmed to seek fairness both for ourselves and for others. That’s why, similar to political topics, criminal justice issues are naturally engaging.

Appropriate punishment is salient now especially in the US after years of debates and protests related to the killings of minorities like George Floyd, Michael Brown, and Tamir Rice. More recently, the storming of the US Capitol, the role the President’s words had in inciting the perpetrators, and how liable they are when following their President’s words, are also hot-button issues. It’s hard to go wrong with a criminal justice topic.

Is the death penalty ethical?
Should people be jailed for drug-related offenses?
Should police officers be charged for inappropriate use of force?
Why are minorities disproportionately represented in the US prison population?
Why does the US have the largest prison population in the world?
Should mentally unstable people be charged with crimes?
Should underage repeat offenders be tried as adults?
Should there be more than 12 jurors in a jury?
Should felons be allowed to vote?

Religion is a sensitive issue everywhere. Since it often concerns people’s innermost beliefs and principles, it’s not difficult to capture your audience’s attention with a religious topic. But beware that it’s also very easy to offend someone if you’re not careful.

Take religious freedom, for example – a concept interpreted in very different ways by different people. When in 2012 a Christian baker in Colorado refused to bake a wedding cake for a gay couple, was he exercising his religious freedom or discriminating against LGBTQ people?

Is atheism a religion?
Does religion do more harm than good?
Should creationism be taught in schools?
Should there be religious education in schools?
Should religious symbols be banned from schools?
Should schools’ curriculums consider religious points of view?
Should public prayer be allowed in schools?
Should religious institutions pay taxes?
Are most religions inherently sexist?
Is Buddhism more peaceful than other religions?

The teenage years are a transition period between childhood and adulthood, which causes a natural struggle between treating teens as children or adults. Can we hold teenagers accountable for crimes they committed? Or should their parents be responsible? Issues like this make a lively debate inevitable.

Should we lower the voting age to 16?
Should we lower the drinking age to 18?
At what age should teens be allowed to date?
At what age is it appropriate for teens to have sex?
Should sex education be mandatory in school?
Should teenage pregnancies be terminated?
Should teens have access to birth control?
Is cyberbullying as bad as real-life bullying?
Is peer pressure good or bad?
Does social media cause an increase in teenage suicide?
Are beauty pageants harmful to teenagers’ self-esteem?
Should teens be allowed to keep secrets from parents?
Should energy drinks be banned for teenagers?
Should mobile devices be banned at school?
Is the school grading system effective?
Should school uniforms be mandatory?
Should teens be allowed to get tattoos?
Should vaping be prohibited for teens?

Are you looking for more controversial topics for teens? Check out our other article where you can find 170+ controversial debate topics for teens , as well as the dos and don’ts when debating controversial topics.

Science has a very specific way of addressing controversies – by looking at evidence. When scientists disagree on something, they have to back their views with data and logical arguments. But scientific questions are often taken outside the realm of the experts and turn into social, political, or economic issues.

That’s why it’s important to be familiar with the concept of false equivalence – a fallacy in which a flawed or misleading argument is presented as equivalent to a sound and logical one. For instance, scientists have shown that the preponderance of evidence points to the reality of climate change. Media outlets and some politicians, however, sometimes present the issue as not settled. No matter whether climate change is real or not, saying that a politician’s opinion is as valid as a scientist’s – when we’re talking about that scientist’s field – is a false equivalence. Issues like that are bound to create a heated (pun intended) debate.

Can scientists ever be objective?
Should corporations fund research?
Should science be optional in school?
Why are women underrepresented in science?
Is STEM education more valuable than training in humanities?
Should cryptocurrencies be regulated?
Should net neutrality be restored?
Should robots have rights?
Is AI a menace to humans?
Is AI the next stage in evolution?
Is technology helping or destroying Earth?
Can renewable sources of energy replace fossil fuels?
Is climate change a threat to humanity?
Is cell phone radiation dangerous?
Is climate change reversible?
Should all cars be electric?
Is nuclear energy safe?
Does alien life exist?
Could alien life have found Earth?
Should humans try to colonize Mars?

Professional sports hold a lot of potential to create controversy. Hardly a week goes by without some major sports issue making the news. Whether it’s deflated footballs, kneeling during the anthem, or equal pay for male and female athletes, sports topics usually carry an emotional charge as most people have a strong opinion one way or the other .

Should performance-enhancing drugs be allowed in sports?
Are professional athletes paid too much?
Are professional athletes good role models?
Should college athletes be paid beyond scholarships?
Should college athletes be tested for drugs?
Is dance a real sport?
Is video gaming a real sport?
Is bodybuilding a real sport?
Is cheerleading a real sport?
Should mixed martial arts be banned?
Should women compete against men in sports?
Should female athletes be paid the same as male athletes?
Should transgender athletes who used to be male compete in women’s sports?
Do the Olympics do more harm than good for the cities hosting them?
Are professional sports too damaging to athletes’ health?
Is American football too dangerous for athletes?
Should athletes who kneel for the anthem be sanctioned?

Sharing a meal with others unites us, but our opinions on food often divide us. Why is one part of the world starving, while another struggles with obesity? Is famine a result of a shortage or a distribution problem? Questions about food are important for humanity, which makes them compelling topics for discussion.

Are genetically modified foods dangerous?
Should genetically modified foods be labeled?
Is organic food better than regular food?
Is fast food responsible for obesity?
Is food waste unavoidable?
Is organic farming sustainable?
Is factory farming unsustainable?
Is grass-fed beef better than corn-fed beef?
Is palm oil production causing deforestation?
Can biotech foods save us from hunger?
Should butter be stored in the fridge?

Nutrition is one of the most controversial scientific fields – dietary guidelines seem to be changing by the day. Is it OK to eat more than two eggs a day? Are carbs more unhealthy than fats? Issues like that are notoriously hard to resolve as even a carefully designed scientific study struggles to untangle the many factors that go into human health.

Should we have nutrition classes in schools?
Can a vegan diet help the environment?
Is it healthier to be vegetarian?
Is an all-meat diet healthy?
Is dieting ever effective?
Does fasting help or harm the body?
Are gluten-free diets overhyped?
Should we ban trans fat?
Is sugar addictive?
Are artificial sweeteners unhealthy?

Bring up the practice of eating dog meat in some countries to a dog lover, and you’ll more than likely evoke a very strong reaction. But how is it different from eating other social and intelligent mammals, such as pigs? There are many unresolved animal issues that can make for a captivating paper or presentation.

Should animals have the same rights as humans?
Should animals be considered individuals?
Do animals have emotions?
Do animals have consciousness?
Is animal testing ethical?
Should the fur industry be restricted?
Are zoos helping or hurting animals?
Should there be animals in circuses?
Should we try to reverse extinction?
Are humans destroying animal habitats?
Is selective dog breeding unethical?
Should bullfighting be banned?
Should whaling be banned?

Many argue that psychology as a science is still in its infancy. There’s no consensus on a lot of the big questions related to people’s minds. Is there even a way to know what’s happening inside someone else’s head besides our own? A behaviorist would insist there isn’t.

Is psychology a real science?
Is depression a real disease?
Are antidepressants effective?
Is ADHD a real mental disorder?
Is drug abuse a mental health issue?
Is mental illness equivalent to physical illness?
Should psychologists be allowed to prescribe drugs?
Is prejudice against different people inherent?
Is it ethical to “treat” homosexuality?
Are social media sites addictive?
Is social media connecting us or making us more isolated?
Is pornography harmful to the psyche?
Do video games cause violence?
Is intelligence inherited?

Being in a romantic relationship involves constantly negotiating and renegotiating issues ranging from the most mundane to the most profound. On top of that, most adults are or have been part of a couple, making this a relatable and attention-grabbing subject.

Is monogamy natural?
Does divorce harm children?
Should dating between co-workers be allowed?
Should people date people much older than themselves?
Is romantic love a prerequisite to marital satisfaction?
Should arguments in a couple be avoided or encouraged?
Should men and women have different functions in a relationship?
Is it OK to keep secrets from your partner?
Are long-distance relationships worth it?
Is sex before marriage wrong?
Is online dating good or bad?
Are homosexual relationships natural?
Should same-sex marriage be banned?
Should LGBTQ people be allowed to adopt children?

Health is arguably the most important thing for a person. So it’s no surprise that we take issues related to health and medicine very seriously. Is there any point in prolonging a dying patient’s pain through life support? Questions like this are hard to give a definitive answer to, making them potent discussion topics.

Are vaccines safe?
Is Covid-19 manmade?
Should immunization be mandatory?
Should euthanasia be allowed?
Is alternative medicine any good?
Should healthcare be free?
Is obesity a disease?
Is circumcision healthy?
Is stem cell research ethical?
How harshly should medical malpractice be punished?
Should Big Pharma be banned from charging too much for life-saving drugs?
Should prescription drug manufacturers be held responsible for the opioid crisis?
Should cannabis be prescribed as medicine?
Should surrogate pregnancy be allowed?
Should we use gene-editing in humans?
Should the sale of human organs be allowed?
Should genetic screening of embryos be legal?

If nurses are essential workers, why do they get paid so little? To get to the bottom of this, we need to go beyond the nursing profession and take a hard look at society as a whole. Besides, just like doctors, nurses face ethical dilemmas in their work every day, which creates a lot of room for debate.

Are nurses compensated fairly?
Should nurses’ shifts be shortened?
Should nurses be allowed to prescribe drugs?
Is the nursing profession better suited for women?
Should nurses use artificial hydration and nutrition?
Should nurses treat non-compliant patients?

Biology deals with nothing less than life itself! And what’s a more fascinating question than the origin of life? Although we seem to be far from deciphering this mystery, there are many other issues that both scientists and laypeople have good reason to debate.

Is evolution up for debate?
Did life emerge out of inorganic matter?
Is there a viable alternative to the theory of evolution?
How significant are the physiological differences between men and women?
Is behavior determined by our genes or by our upbringing?
Are there more than two genders?

If you’re a classical music lover, you’ll very likely scoff at the assertion that rock ‘n’ roll is the best musical genre. But who’s to say? Maybe someone will argue that there are objective measures of the quality of music. As with any issue that’s close to many people’s hearts, music can be an excellent topic for discussion.

Is music getting worse over time?
Is the pursuit of profit ruining music?
Do music streaming services such as Spotify help or harm musical artists?
Are violent or explicit lyrics harmful to society?
Are rock stars a bad influence on children?
Are The Beatles overrated?

Do you think Banksy will go down in history as one of the great artists, or do you see his works as cheap stunts? Either way, you’ll probably agree that art has changed almost beyond recognition since the time of Rembrandt. Whether that’s a good or bad thing is just one topic worth exploring.

Is the value of art subjective?
Should explicit art be censored?
Who decides what constitutes art?
Should an art piece always carry a message?
Is contemporary art as good as classical art?
Should any topic be out of bounds for art?

Hardly anyone would disagree that we should learn from history to avoid making the same mistake twice. But what exactly are history’s lessons is up for debate, and so make for great discussion topics.

Are the two World Wars responsible for the relative state of peace since?
Should the US pay reparations to African Americans because of slavery?
Should Confederate statues in the US be taken down?
Was Christopher Columbus a hero or a villain?
Was the French Revolution inevitable?
Is history always written by the victors?
Is history bound to be repeated?

Are cats better pets than dogs? Does pineapple belong on a pizza? These are the kind of age-old debates we look into in our Funny Controversial Topics page.

Top 5 Extraordinary Motivational Speakers

130 Awesome Speech Topics for Kids

7 thoughts on “205 Controversial Topics for your Essay, Speech, or Debate”

Which is better, Chicago pizza or New York pizza?

Hey Nicole, just to answer your question personally I think Chicago pizza is too thick and I would choose New York pizza any day.

In my opinion Chicago pizza is clearly superior, and its thickness is one of its best attributes.

In my opinion New York pizza is clearly superior, and its thinness is one of its best attributes.

I second Chicago pizza lover’s statement, I think that Chicagos pizzas are much better!

In my very Italian opinion, true real pizza is Made in Italy only – the best. Cheers x 🙂

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Regions & Countries

About 1 in 4 americans have unfavorable views of both biden and trump.

Joe Biden and Donald Trump each have enough delegates in the 2024 presidential primaries to secure their parties’ nominations for president . However, a sizable share of Americans are not particularly fond of either one.

Pew Research Center conducted this analysis to understand the American public’s opinion on presidential candidates Joe Biden and Donald Trump. Most of the data for this analysis comes from a survey of 12,693 respondents from Feb. 13 to 25, 2024.

Most of the respondents (10,642) are members of the American Trends Panel (ATP), an online survey panel recruited through national random sampling of residential addresses. This gives nearly all U.S. adults a chance of selection.

The other 2,051 respondents are members of three other panels: the Ipsos KnowledgePanel, the NORC AmeriSpeak panel and the SSRS opinion panel. All three are national survey panels recruited through random sampling (not “opt-in” polls). We used these additional panels to ensure that the survey would have enough respondents to report on the views of additional subgroups of adults.

For the part of the analysis focusing on the views of Republican primary supporters, we used the responses from a subset of the 4,792 U.S. adults who completed both the February survey and another ATP survey fielded from Nov. 27 to Dec. 3, 2023.

The surveys are weighted to be representative of the U.S. adult population by gender, race, ethnicity, partisan affiliation, education and other categories. Read more about the ATP’s methodology .

Here are the questions used for this analysis and its methodology .

A pie chart showing that roughly a quarter of Americans have an unfavorable view of both Biden, Trump.

Roughly a quarter of Americans (26%) hold unfavorable views of both Trump and Biden. This “double negative” sentiment is more common among younger adults than older adults. Those who reject partisan labels – identifying as independent or “something else” and instead leaning toward a party – are also more likely to hold this combination of views.

Most Americans view only one of the two men favorably: 37% have a favorable view of Trump and an unfavorable view of Biden, while 34% have a favorable view of Biden and an unfavorable view of Trump. Just 2% of Americans say they have a favorable view of both , according to a Pew Research Center survey of 12,693 adults conducted Feb. 13-25.

‘Double negatives’ are more common among some demographic groups

A bar chart showing that young adults stand out for their dislike of both Biden and Trump.

Younger adults are particularly likely to be “double negatives.” About four-in-ten adults ages 18 to 29 (41%) have an unfavorable opinion of both Biden and Trump. In comparison, three-in-ten adults ages 30 to 49 and fewer than two-in-ten of those 50 and older dislike both men.

Partisanship

Among Republicans and Republican-leaning independents, 72% have a favorable view of Trump only, while 4% have a favorable view of Biden only. About two-in-ten (22%) have unfavorable views of both .

But there are differences between those who identify as Republican and those who lean toward the Republican Party.

While Republican leaners are no more likely than Republican identifiers to view Biden favorably, they have less favorable views of Trump.

As a result, about a third of Republican leaners (35%) are double negatives, with an unfavorable view of both Biden and Trump. In comparison , just 15% of Republican identifiers are double negatives.

There is a similar dynamic among Democrats. About two-thirds of Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents say they have a favorable view of Biden and an unfavorable view of Trump. But among Democratic leaners, 38% have negative views of both Trump and Biden . That drops to 19% among those who identify as Democrats.

How many Haley, DeSantis supporters are ‘double negatives’?

Republican and Republican-leaning registered voters who supported a GOP candidate other than Trump for the 2024 presidential nomination are less favorable to the former president than those who backed him.

A bar chart showing that about half of Nikki Haley’s supporters in the GOP primary hold unfavorable views of Biden and Trump.

Nikki Haley’s primary supporters are especially likely to say they dislike both Trump and Biden. Among Republican and Republican-leaning registered voters who said in a December survey that they supported Haley for the Republican nomination, roughly half (53%) currently have unfavorable opinions of both Biden and Trump.

About four-in-ten (38%) of Haley’s supporters say they have a favorable view of Trump and not of Biden, while 9% say they have an unfavorable view of Trump but a favorable view of Biden.

Among Ron DeSantis’ December supporters, about three-in-ten are double negatives. Seven-in-ten have a favorable view of Trump and an unfavorable view of Biden.

An overwhelming majority of Trump’s primary supporters (96%) say they have a favorable view of Trump and an unfavorable view of Biden.

Biden and Trump favorability ratings

Overall, 62% of Americans have an unfavorable view of Biden – nearly identical to the 60% of Americans who view Trump negatively. (Read more about how Americans view Biden and Trump .)

Line charts showing that the American public views both Biden and Trump more negatively than positively.

While Biden’s favorability ratings are little changed over the last year, they are more negative than they were in 2022. This shift has largely been within his own party: In July 2022, 75% of Democrats and Democratic leaners rated him positively. Today, 67% do.

Republicans’ negative views of Biden have held steady over that time. Today, 94% say they have an unfavorable view of him.

Trump’s ratings are largely the same as they were in 2022. However, they are somewhat less negative than in 2023, as Republicans’ views have grown more positive.

Today, 73% of Republicans and Republican leaners hold a favorable view of the former president, up from 66% in July 2023.

Democrats continue to overwhelmingly view Trump negatively: 91% say they have an unfavorable view of him.

Views of Trump and Biden among racial and ethnic groups

There have been only modest changes in views of Biden and Trump over the past two years among Black, Asian and White adults.

Line charts showing that Hispanic adults’ views of Biden and Trump have shifted since 2022.

Among Hispanic adults, however, there are bigger changes. Hispanics are less likely to hold favorable views of Biden now than they were two years ago, and they are slightly more positive about Trump.

In July 2022, 54% of Hispanic adults held a favorable view of Biden. Today, that share has dropped to 37%.

At the same time, Trump’s favorability among Hispanic adults has ticked up, from 28% in July 2022 to 34% now.

Favorability by age

A bar chart showing that younger adults have less favorable views than older adults of both Biden and Trump.

As has generally been the case for the past several years, younger Americans are less likely than older Americans to have favorable views of Biden or Trump.

Today, about three-in-ten adults under 30 say they have a favorable view of Biden (29%), while a nearly identical share (31%) have a favorable view of Trump.

Note: Here are the questions used for this analysis and its methodology .

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

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New Research Reveals Full Diversity of Killer Whales as Two Species Come into View on Pacific Coast

March 27, 2024

Long viewed as one worldwide species, killer whale diversity now merits more. Southern Resident Connections - Post 35

Side-by-side comparison of Bigg's killer on left and resident killer whale on right.

Scientists have resolved one of the outstanding questions about one of the world’s most recognizable creatures, identifying two well-known killer whales in the North Pacific Ocean as separate species.

Killer whales are one of the most widespread animals on Earth. They have long been considered one worldwide species known scientifically as Orcinus orca , with different forms in various regions known as “ecotypes.”

However, biologists have increasingly recognized the differences between resident and Bigg’s killer whales. Resident killer whales maintain tight-knit family pods and prey on salmon and other marine fish. Bigg’s killer whales roam in smaller groups, preying on other marine mammals such as seals and whales. (Killer whales actually belong to the dolphin family.) Bigg’s killer whales, sometimes called transients, are named for Canadian scientist Michael Bigg, the first to describe telltale differences between the two types.

He noted in the 1970s that the two animals did not mix with each other even when they occupied many of the same coastal waters. This is often a sign of different species.

The finding recognizes the accuracy of the listing of Southern Resident killer whales as a Distinct Population Segment warranting protection under the Endangered Species Act in 2005. At the time, NOAA described the distinct population segment as part of an unnamed subspecies of resident killer whales in the North Pacific.

Now a team of scientists from NOAA Fisheries and universities have assembled genetic, physical, and behavioral evidence. The data distinguish two of the killer whale ecotypes of the North Pacific Coast—residents and Bigg’s—as separate species.

“We started to ask this question 20 years ago, but we didn’t have much data, and we did not have the tools that we do now,” said Phil Morin, an evolutionary geneticist at NOAA Fisheries’ Southwest Fisheries Science Center and lead author of the new paper . “Now we have more of both, and the weight of the evidence says these are different species.”

Genetic data from previous studies revealed that the two species likely diverged more than 300,000 years ago and come from opposite ends of the killer whale family tree. That makes them about as genetically different as any killer whale ecotypes around the globe. Subsequent studies of genomic data confirm that they have evolved as genetically and culturally distinct groups, which occupy different niches in the same Northwest marine ecosystem.

“They’re the most different killer whales in the world, and they live right next to each other and see each other all the time,” said Barbara Taylor, a former NOAA Fisheries marine mammal biologist who was part of the science panel that assessed the status of Southern Residents. “They just do not mix.”

Recognizing New Species

Superior view of Bigg's killer whale skull (left) and resident killer whale skull (right)

The Taxonomy Committee of the Society of Marine Mammalogy will determine whether to recognize the new species in its official list of marine mammal species . The committee will likely determine whether to accept the new designations at its next annual review this summer.

The scientists proposed scientific names for the new species based on their earliest published descriptions in the 1800s. Neither will keep the ubiquitous worldwide moniker, orca . The team proposed to call resident killer whales Orcinus ater , a Latin reference to their dominant black coloring. Bigg’s killer whales would be called Orcinus rectipinnus , a combination of Latin words for erect wing, probably referring to their tall, sharp dorsal fin.

Both species names were originally published in 1869 by Edward Drinker Cope, a Pennsylvania scientist known more for unearthing dinosaurs than studying marine mammals. He was working from a manuscript that California whaling captain Charles Melville Scammon had sent to the Smithsonian Institution describing West Coast marine mammals, including the two killer whales. While Cope credited Scammon for the descriptions, Scammon took issue with Cope for editing and publishing Scammon’s work without telling him. (See accompanying story .)

The Smithsonian Institution had shared Scammon’s work with Cope, and a Smithsonian official later apologized to Scammon for what he called “Cope’s absurd blunder.”

Species Reflect Ecosystem

The contested question of whether Southern Residents were distinct enough to merit endangered species protections initially drove much of the research that helped differentiate the two species, said Eric Archer, who leads the Marine Mammal Genetics Program at the Southwest Fisheries Science Center and is a coauthor of the new research paper. The increasing processing power of computers has made it possible to examine killer whale DNA in ever finer detail. He said the findings not only validate protection for the animals themselves, but also help reveal different components of the marine ecosystems the whales depend on.

“As we better understand what makes these species special, we learn more about how they use the ecosystems they inhabit and what makes those environments special, too,” he said.

The new research synthesizes the earliest accounts of killer whales on the Pacific Coast with modern data on physical characteristics. The team also use aerial imaging (called photogrammetry ), and measurement and genetic testing of museum specimens at the Smithsonian and elsewhere. While the two species look similar to the untrained eye, the evidence demonstrates they are very different species. The two species use different ecological niches, such as specializing in different prey, said Kim Parsons, a geneticist at the NOAA Fisheries Northwest Fisheries Science Center in Seattle and coauthor of the new research.

Recent research with drones that collect precise aerial photos has helped differentiate Bigg’s killer whales as longer and larger. This might better equip them to go after large marine mammal prey. The smaller size of residents is likely better suited to deep dives after their salmon prey, said John Durban, an associate professor at Oregon State University’s Marine Mammal Institute. His killer whale drone research is done collaboratively with Holly Fearnbach, a researcher at SR³.

The different prey of the two species may also help explain their different trajectories. Southern Residents are listed as endangered in part because of the scarcity of their salmon prey. Bigg’s killer whales, by contrast, have multiplied while feeding on plentiful marine mammals, including California sea lions.

While killer whales represent some of the most efficient predators the world has ever seen, Durban said science is still unraveling the diversity among them. The identification of additional killer whale species is likely to follow. One leading candidate may be “Type D” killer whales identified in the Southern Ocean around Antarctica.

Other killer whales in Antarctic waters also look very different from the best-known black and white killer whales. This reflects a wider diversity within the species, said Durban, who has used drones to study killer whales around the world. “The more we learn,” he said, “the clearer it becomes to me that at least some of these types will be recognized as different species in due course.”

Southern Resident Connections

Southern Resident killer whales are icons of a vibrant but struggling marine ecosystem that is important to us all. Join us in exploring the ecological connections that tie this system together, and the ways we are protecting and working to recover the whales we all care so much about.

More Information

New Research Reveals Two Species of Killer Whale
How Scientists Chose Names for Newly Identified Killer Whale Species
Two Species of Killer Whale Infographic
Marine Mammal Genetics Research
2004 Status Review of Southern Resident Killer Whales
Saving the Southern Resident Killer Whales
Listing of Southern Resident Killer Whale Under the ESA
Killer Whale Ecotypes Poster

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Do sweeteners increase your appetite? New evidence from randomised controlled trial says no

Replacing sugar with artificial and natural sweeteners in foods does not make people hungrier -- and also helps to reduce blood sugar levels, a significant new study has found.

The double blind randomised controlled trial found that consuming food containing sweeteners produced a similar reduction in appetite sensations and appetite-related hormone responses as sugary foods -- and provides some benefits such as lowering blood sugar, which may be particularly important in people at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

The use of sweeteners in place of sugar in foods can be controversial due to conflicting reports about their potential to increase appetite. Previous studies have been carried out but did not provide robust evidence.

However, the researchers say their study, which meets the gold standard level of proof in scientific investigation, provides very strong evidence that sweeteners and sweetness enhancers do not negatively impact appetite and are beneficial for reducing sugar intake.

The trial was led by the University of Leeds in collaboration with the The Rhône-Alpes Research Center for Human Nutrition. It is the latest study to be published by the SWEET consortium of 29 European research, consumer and industry partners which is working to develop and review evidence on long term benefits and potential risks involved in switching over to sweeteners and sweetness enhancers in the context of public health and safety, obesity, and sustainability. It was funded by Horizon Europe.

Lead author Catherine Gibbons, Associate Professor in the University of Leeds' School of Psychology, said: "Reducing sugar consumption has become a key public health target in the fight to reduce the rising burden of obesity-related metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes.

"Simply restricting sugar from foods without substitution may negatively impact its taste or increase sweet cravings, resulting in difficulties sticking to a low-sugar diet. Replacing sugars with sweeteners and sweetness enhancers in food products is one of the most widely used dietary and food manufacturing strategies to reduce sugar intake and improve the nutritional profile of commercial foods and beverages."

Principal investigator Graham Finlayson, Professor of Psychobiology in the University of Leeds' School of Psychology, said: "The use of sweeteners and sweetness enhancers has received a lot of negative attention, including high profile publications linking their consumption with impaired glycaemic response, toxicological damage to DNA and increased risk of heart attack and stroke. These reports contribute to the current befuddlement concerning the safety of sweeteners and sweetness enhancers among the general public and especially people at risk of metabolic diseases.

"Our study provides crucial evidence supporting the day-to-day use of sweeteners and sweetness enhancers for body weight and blood sugar control."

The study, which is the first of its kind, looked at the effects of consuming biscuits containing either sugar or two types of food sweetener: natural sugar substitute Stevia, or artificial sweetener Neotame on 53 adult men and women with overweight or obesity.

Until now, virtually all studies of the effects of sweeteners and sweetness enhancers on appetite and glycaemia have been conducted using beverages as the vehicle. Few studies include volunteers with overweight or obesity and few have included volunteers of both sexes.

Most studies have only compared a single sweetener, mostly aspartame, with a control, and very few studies have examined the effect of repeated daily intake of a known sweetener or sweetness enhancer in the normal diet.

The new trial took place at the University of Leeds and the Rhône-Alpes Research Center for Human Nutrition (CRNH-RA), France between 2021 and 2022. Participants were all aged 18 to 60, with overweight or obesity.

The trial consisted of three two-week consumption periods, where participants consumed biscuits with either fruit filling containing sugar; natural sugar substitute Stevia, or artificial sweetener Neotame, each separated by a break of 14-21 days. Day 1 and day 14 of the consumption periods took place in the lab.

Participants were instructed to arrive in the lab after an overnight fast, a blood sample was taken to establish baseline levels of glucose, insulin and appetite-related hormones. They were also asked to rate their appetite and food preferences.

After consuming the biscuits, they were asked to rate how full they felt over several hours. Glucose and insulin levels were measured, as were ghrelin, glucagon-like peptide 1 and pancreatic polypeptide -- hormones associated with the consumption of food.

The results from the two sweetener types showed no differences in appetite or endocrine responses compared to sugar, but insulin levels measured over two hours after eating were reduced, as were blood sugar levels.

SWEET project joint co-ordinator Professor Anne Raben, from the University of Copenhagen, Denmark, said: "The findings show that sweeteners are a helpful tool to reduce intake of added sugar without leading to a compensatory increase in appetite or energy intake, thereby supporting the usefulness of sweeteners for appetite, energy and weight management."

Diet and Weight Loss
Food Additives
Food and Agriculture
Agriculture and Food
Sugar substitute
Blood sugar
Diabetic diet
Low-carb diets

Story Source:

Materials provided by University of Leeds . Note: Content may be edited for style and length.

Journal Reference :

Catherine Gibbons, Kristine Beaulieu, Eva Almiron-Roig, Santiago Navas-Carretero, J. Alfredo Martínez, Beverley O’Hara, Dominic O’Connor, Julie-Anne Nazare, Alain Le Bail, Cécile Rannou, Charlotte Hardman, Moon Wilton, Louise Kjølbæk, Corey Scott, Hariklia Moshoyiannis, Anne Raben, Joanne A. Harrold, Jason C.G. Halford, Graham Finlayson. Acute and two-week effects of neotame, stevia rebaudioside M and sucrose-sweetened biscuits on postprandial appetite and endocrine response in adults with overweight/obesity—a randomised crossover trial from the SWEET consortium . eBioMedicine , 2024; 105005 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2024.105005

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Doctors can do more to help prevent gun violence, USF paper says

Sam Ogozalek Times staff

Doctors can do more to help prevent gun violence and offer counseling on firearms safety, according to a review by University of South Florida researchers, including a medical student who survived the 2018 mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland.

The review, published in February in the journal Advances in Pediatrics, noted that many doctors believe they should talk to patients about firearms, but often don’t because of time constraints, a lack of training and discomfort with the topic.

In Florida, a law passed in 2011 limited what questions doctors could ask patients about guns. But a federal appeals court found the restrictions to be unconstitutional and struck them down six years later.

The law “had a very chilling effect I think for a lot of providers,” said Cameron Nereim, one of the review’s authors and an assistant professor of pediatrics at USF who focuses on patients ages 12 to 25 in Tampa.

The review noted that the American Medical Association calls gun violence a public health crisis and firearm-related injuries were the leading cause of death for U.S. children in 2020, surpassing motor vehicle crashes.

Doctors can ask patients about whether guns are kept at home and if they are locked, unloaded and separated from ammunition, according to the review.

USF medical student Nikhita Nookala, who survived the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School and covered it as a reporter at The Eagle Eye, the school’s student newspaper, contributed to the review.

The Tampa Bay Times spoke with Nereim and Nookala about their work, which was published with two other authors from North Carolina and Texas medical centers.

The interviews have been edited for clarity and length.

What are the major takeaways you hope physicians get from this paper?

Nookala: It’s important to assess patients’ risks and to see if you can do some harm reduction in terms of encouraging safe storage or just telling kids to be careful around guns.

It doesn’t have to be super political. It’s just about children’s safety at the end of the day.

The paper noted some of the major barriers to physicians counseling on firearms safety are the lack of formal training, lack of confidence that patients will follow their recommendations and low perceived self-efficacy. Are there any ways to address that?

Nereim: I think there are. ... One of the things is how do we do a better job of incorporating this into our training, whether that’s while you’re going through your residency program, while you’re going through your medical school, making sure these things are actually being plugged into our curricula.

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Is there a particular stage of education where you think this would be best emphasized?

Nereim: I think medical school, before students have even differentiated in terms of what specialty or subspecialty they’ll be choosing, that’s a great opportunity to make sure we’re relaying this information.

In school so far, have people talked about gun violence as a public health issue?

Nookala: Everyone acknowledges that it’s become a problem and it’s getting worse. I think a lot of people feel very helpless because it’s something that is hard to bring up.

You’re not accusing someone of “You don’t store your gun safely, you’re putting your child in danger.” ... You want to (tread) the line of “Oh, you have guns in the home, that’s fine, are you storing them safely, are (you) using gun locks?”

It’s just small things that you can remind people, nicely, without discouraging them from coming back.

During routine visits, do you ask patients or patients’ parents whether there are guns in the home, if they are locked, securely unloaded (and) separated from ammunition?

Nereim: Yes, we do.

With the ongoing mental health crisis that’s involving young people ... I think it becomes even more critical that we do our due diligence and we ask those questions about things like firearm ownership ... how ammunition is being stored, what level of training the family members or the kids themselves have in terms of actually using these objects.

How do those conversations normally go for you? Are they difficult?

Nereim: When you’re able to successfully create that nonjudgemental space ... the vast majority of patients and families are really receptive to the questions we’re asking.

Do you ask patients more often than not? Or do you ask their parents?

Nereim: I tend to do both.

Do you ask firearm-related questions in every visit with a patient, or do you only ask them with someone who would be considered high risk?

Nereim: I wouldn’t say we ask it at every visit. I think we’re getting better at making this more a universal thing that we’re screening for, in the same way that 15, 20 years ago we would make sure at every visit we’re asking “Are you wearing your safety helmet if you’re riding your bike? Are you buckling your seat belt if you’re riding in a car?” We’re moving in that direction.

It happens a lot more consistently in these higher-risk situations, so if you have a patient who’s experiencing mood symptoms, depression or maybe even anger, irritability, impulsive behaviors.

(The paper suggested) that physicians can link those at risk of gun violence to other programs that offer support in the community. Do you do that regularly? How common is that?

Nereim: It’s extremely common. ... In the space where I work, probably anywhere from 50 to 70% of patients may have some significant social need. ... A lot of young people confide in me that they’re fearful just to be outside and to be walking in the place where they live because there have been times where they’ve heard gunshots. Or they know there was a shooting that occurred in that same square, that same block.

As you can imagine, when you have these kinds of social needs that manifest over time, there can be pretty major health consequences.

Why is this research important to you?

Nookala: In the aftermath of the (Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School) shooting, the focus was on Parkland, and Parkland became this beacon of gun violence prevention. But the reality is that outside of that one incident, which was horrible, gun violence doesn’t really occur in cities like Parkland every day. It occurs in cities like Tampa every day in marginalized communities. … The focus needs to be shifted back to that.

Training to be a doctor, I wanted to know more about ways you could make changes on an interpersonal level with your patients without being involved in these really political movements that oftentimes (are) just kind of doing nothing or (do) a little something and it gets reversed a few years later. It’s frustrating to watch that.

Nereim: Violence leads to more violence. The only really, truly effective way for us to move forward as a society is we just have to realize that prevention is incredibly important. … I just don’t think we can ignore the role this is playing in the lives of our patients and their families.

Sam Ogozalek is a reporter covering the healthcare system and mental health. He can be reached at [email protected].

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