The newspaper is another great place to look for a potential hot topic.
Some topics for argumentative papers are just plain used to death. If you're looking for something fresh to write about, consider a two-sided issue that's in the news. When writing your argumentative paper on a current issue, consider how it relates personally to you and your classmates. This will help you research and craft an engaging, persuasive paper with a fresh perspective.
Arts and Media
1. "No, it's true, I heard it on the internet." Make the case for the Internet as a more democratic means of news reporting and information sharing. Or argue the other side: Has it negatively impacted society by allowing people to anonymously spread misinformation? Should it be subjected to the same kind of censorship as, say, television?
2. Consider the heated debate over the modeling industry. Do you think it's right to impose a "minimum" size on models? Do you agree with the argument that the modeling industry is responsible for the prevalence of eating disorders--if so, to what extent?
3. Consider the media's influence on political campaigns today compared to what it was 50 or 100 years ago. Decide if it has had a positive or negative impact.
4. Make an argument about how and to what extent reality TV has changed American culture.
Society and Government
1. Argue for or against lowering the legal drinking age. Back your argument with statistical studies.
2. Argue for or against trade tariffs or taxes.
3. Discuss whether it's right or wrong to allow standardized test scores to determine how much money a public school receives from the government. Consider questions like: Do you think this helps hold school systems accountable and provides an incentive for school administrators to address shortcomings? Or is it a punishment that unfairly condemns students at low-performing schools?
4. Make an argument for or against shortening or extending the work or school week.
Health and Environment
1. Consider both recent resurgences of infectious diseases supposed to have been "wiped out" by vaccinations and the fear that childhood vaccinations may be linked to autism. Do parents have the right to opt-out of vaccinations for their children? Or should vaccinations be mandatory?
2. Consider the SARS and Swine Flu scares. Make an argument on whether the media over-reacted and spread unfounded fears, or did their job in keeping people informed of a possible threat. Alternatively, make an argument about whether or not you think society or the government is properly prepared to deal with an influenza pandemic should one occur.
3. Write what you think about genetically engineered foods. Should they be labeled differently to alert consumers that they have been genetically engineered? Should genetically engineered foods be banned? Or can you make an argument in their favor?
4. State the case for changing public policy to promote land conservation, or for favoring new land development. Answer these questions: Should economic and industrial loss be taken into account when land is conserved for the benefit of endangered species? Do environmental policies put an excessive burden on industries?
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