An argumentative or persuasive essay requires you to take a stance on a topic. You are responsible for arguing against a position or defending it using appropriate facts and statistics. Choosing a topic that you have a personal interest in makes writing your paper more enjoyable and may lead you to present a more organized and convincing argument.
Drug War
A common argument in politics is how the government is handling the war on drugs. Some drugs, such as alcohol and tobacco, are legal while others such as marijuana, cocaine and methamphetamines are illegal. Do you feel the government should allow individuals to control their own destiny and lessen control on drugs or perhaps that both alcohol and tobacco need to be regulated more closely? Express how you feel about the criminal punishments for possession and dealing drugs and whether they are adequate or need reform.
Polygamy
Polygamy is outlawed in the United States, forbidding both men and women from having more than one husband or wife. Should the United States be more open to other cultures and their beliefs, especially with the melting pot philosophy that the United States embraces? Is polygamy harmful to the individuals directly involved or does it impact society as a whole? Argue your case whether polygamy being outlawed is for the best or that the government needs to re-think the laws.
Death Penalty
The death penalty is a form of punishment the criminal justice system uses on certain crimes depending on their severity. In the United States, legality of the death penalty depends on the state where you live. Do you feel the death penalty should be outlawed or are there some instances where it is appropriate? Address common arguments, including the fact that someone may be wrongfully put to death under current laws and the issue of if someone is wrongfully imprisoned, they can be released but you cannot bring them back from the dead.
Vegetarianism
A vegetarian diet is one that omits meat. Some vegetarians eat fish, while others selectively choose which animals they consume. Vegetarian practices may be based on animal rights or health or a combination of the two. Vegans take it a step further and do not eat animal products including eggs and milk. Do you feel that humans need meat to survive or is a diet with meat harmful to humans? Are vegetarians healthier than non-vegetarians?
Tags: United States, death penalty, alcohol tobacco, someone wrongfully, while others
