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25 Essay Topics for American Government Classes

Writing Ideas That Will Make Students Think

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If you are a teacher searching for essay topics to assign to your U.S. government or civics class or looking for ideas, do not fret. It is easy to integrate debates and discussions into the classroom environment. These topic suggestions provide a wealth of ideas for written assignments such as position papers , compare-and-contrast essays , and argumentative essays . Scan the following 25 question topics and ideas to find just the right one. You'll soon be reading interesting papers from your students after they grapple with these challenging and important issues.

Compare and contrast what is a direct democracy versus representative democracy.
React to the following statement: Democratic decision-making should be extended to all areas of life including schools, the workplace, and the government.
Compare and contrast the Virginia and New Jersey plans. Explain how these led to the Great Compromise .
Pick one thing about the U.S. Constitution including its amendments that you think should be changed. What modifications would you make? Explain your reasons for making this change.
What did Thomas Jefferson mean when he said, "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants?" Do you think that this statement still applies to today's world?
Compare and contrast mandates and conditions of aid regarding the federal government's relationship with states. For example, how has the Federal Emergency Management Agency delivered support to states and commonwealths that have experienced natural disasters?
Should individual states have more or less power compared to the federal government when implementing laws dealing with topics such as the legalization of marijuana and abortion ?
Outline a program that would get more people to vote in presidential elections or local elections.
What are the dangers of gerrymandering when it comes to voting and presidential elections?
Compare and contrast the major political parties in the United States. What policies are they preparing for upcoming elections?
Why would voters choose to vote for a third party, even though they know that their candidate has virtually no chance of winning?
Describe the major sources of money that are donated to political campaigns. Check out the Federal Election Regulatory Commission's website for information.
Should corporations be treated as individuals regarding being allowed to donate to political campaigns? Look at the 2010 Citizens United v. FEC ruling on the issue. Defend your answer.
Explain the role of social media in connecting interest groups that have grown stronger as the major political parties have grown weaker.
Explain why the media has been called the fourth branch of government. Include your opinion on whether this is an accurate portrayal.
Compare and contrast the campaigns of U.S. Senate and House of Representatives candidates.
Should term limits be instituted for members of Congress? Explain your answer.
Should members of Congress vote their conscience or follow the will of the people who elected them into office? Explain your answer.
Explain how executive orders have been used by presidents throughout the history of the U.S. What is the number of executive orders issued by the current president?
In your opinion, which of the three branches of the federal government has the most power? Defend your answer.
Which of the rights guaranteed by the First Amendment do you consider the most important? Explain your answer.
Should a school be required to get a warrant before searching a student's property? Defend your answer.
Why did the Equal Rights Amendment fail? What kind of campaign could be run to see it passed?
Explain how the 14th Amendment has affected civil liberties in the United States from the time of its passage at the end of the Civil War.
Do you think that the federal government has enough, too much or just the right amount of power? Defend your answer.
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332 American Government Essay Topics & Research Ideas

Icon Calendar 18 May 2024
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American Government essay topics present a comprehensive spectrum for exploration, each varying in depth and complexity. Some themes may include the functionality of constitutional democracy in the United States (U.S.), the examination of civil liberties and rights, or the intricacies of the federal system. Students may delve into the analysis of influential Supreme Court decisions, the evolving role of the Presidency, or the workings of Congressional lawmaking. Contemporary subjects, like campaign finance reform, immigration policy, or the impact of media on political discourse, are also important. Unraveling the politics of environmental policy or the checks and balances system’s practicality offers bright themes. In turn, investigating the role of lobbyists and interest groups or dissecting the dynamics of public opinion and voting behavior can give intriguing insights. Thus, American government essay topics not only foster a deeper understanding of the nation’s political landscape but also stimulate critical thinking and analytical skills.

Easy Government Essay Topics

Understanding Democracy: Basic Concepts and Principles
Different Types of Government: A Comparative Study
Voting Systems: Pros and Cons of First-Past-the-Post
Government’s Part in Economic Development: An Overview
Public Health: Government’s Responsibilities and Duties
Rights and Responsibilities of Citizens: A Closer Look
Elections: Understanding the Electoral College System
Why Do We Need a Constitution? An Elementary Explanation
Importance of Civic Education in a Democracy
Federal vs. State Powers: An Introduction
Social Security: Functions and Challenges
Government Regulation of Media: Freedom vs. Responsibility
Public Transportation and Government’s Involvement: An Overview
Differences Between Presidential and Parliamentary Systems of Government
Local Governments: Responsibilities and Functions
Citizen Participation in Government: Why Does It Matter?
Understanding Public Policy: A Basic Analysis
Freedom of Speech: Government and Constitutional Protection
National Security and Individual Privacy: Striking a Balance

Interesting Government Essay Topics

Privatization vs. Public Ownership: Theoretical Considerations
Decentralization of Power: Unraveling Its Implications
State Surveillance: Dilemma of Privacy vs. Security
National Debts: Examining Their Economic and Political Effects
Monarchies in the 21st Century: An Analytical Perspective
Cryptocurrency Regulation: Assessing Different Government Approaches
Digital Governance: Opportunities and Pitfalls
Constitutional Interpretation: Originalism vs. Living Constitution Theory
Understanding Federalism: A Comparative Analysis
Emerging Role of Artificial Intelligence in Governance
Climate Change Policy: National vs. International Responsibilities
Democracy and Technology: Influence of Social Media on Governance
Public Administration Reforms: Lessons From Around the World
Immigration Policy: Factors Influencing Government Decisions
Separation of Powers: An Inquiry Into Its Real-World Implications
Fiscal Policy during Recessions: Strategies and Outcomes
Authoritarian Regimes in a Digital Age: Unpacking the Complexities
Intelligence Agencies: Examining Oversight and Control Mechanisms
Social Equity and Government Policy: Challenges and Opportunities
Political Dynasties: Assessing Their Influence on Democratic Governance

U.S. Government Research Paper Topics for College

Gun Control Policies: Analyzing the Effectiveness in the U.S.
Unraveling the Complexity of U.S. Immigration Reform
Affordable Care Act: A Comprehensive Analysis Post Implementation
Effects of Social Media on the U.S. Electoral Process
Campaign Finance Laws in the United States: A Closer Look
Government Shutdowns: Causes and Consequences in the U.S.
Federalism in the United States: Changing Dynamics
Dissecting the Patriot Act: Implications for Civil Liberties
Constitutional Rights and Digital Privacy: An American Perspective
Polarization in American Politics: Causes and Effects
U.S. Tax Reform: An Analysis of Recent Changes
Influence of Lobbying on Law-Making in the United States
Supreme Court Appointments: Politics and Consequences
Federal Reserve’s Monetary Policy: A Comprehensive Review
Investigating the Role of Super PACs in U.S. Elections
American Infrastructure Spending: Assessing Need and Impact
Analyzing the U.S. Response to Climate Change
Understanding the U.S. Electoral College: Pros and Cons
U.S. Drug Policy: Lessons Learned From the War on Drugs

U.S. Government Research Paper Topics for University

Native American Treaties and U.S. Government: A Detailed Study
Rise of Partisanship: An Exploration Into U.S. Politics
Education Policy in the United States: A Critical Assessment
American Antitrust Legislation: A Review and Analysis
U.S. Military Strategy in the Post-Cold War Era: A Comprehensive Study
Housing Policy and Inequality in the United States: A Detailed Examination
U.S. Trade Agreements: Analyzing Their Success and Failures
Unfolding American Diplomacy in the Asia-Pacific Region: An In-Depth Review
Citizens United Decision: An Analysis of Its Implications on U.S. Elections
Racial Profiling and Law Enforcement in the U.S.: A Study on Systemic Bias
Space Exploration Policies of the U.S.: A Comprehensive Overview
Gerrymandering in the United States: Analyzing Its Impacts on Representation
Public Health Policy in the U.S.: Lessons From the Covid-19 Pandemic
Women in U.S. Politics: A Study on Representation and Influence
Privatization in the U.S.: A Critical Analysis of Its Effects on Public Services
U.S. Welfare Policy: An Evaluation of Its Efficacy and Inclusivity
Privacy Rights in the U.S.: Analyzing the Balance Between Security and Liberty
Minimum Wage Policies in the United States: A Comparative Study
U.S. Energy Policy: A Study of Transition towards Renewable Resources
Cybersecurity in the U.S.: Analyzing Government’s Role in Protecting National Infrastructure

American Government and Foreign Policy Essay Topics

Middle East Policies: A Review of U.S. Strategy and Diplomacy
Democratization and American Foreign Policy: A Critical Examination
China-U.S. Relations: A Study of Economic and Security Dilemmas
American Strategy in Containing North Korea’s Nuclear Ambition
Shifts in U.S.-Russia Relations: Post-Cold War Analysis
Climate Change and American Foreign Policy: An In-Depth Study
Human Rights in American Foreign Policy: Case Studies From the 21st Century
Evaluating U.S. Intervention in Afghanistan: A Retrospective Study
Cyber Warfare and U.S. Foreign Policy: Exploring Strategies and Consequences
U.S. and NATO: Analyzing the Changing Dynamics of Transatlantic Alliance
Latin America in U.S. Foreign Policy: A Historical Analysis
American Policy in the Indo-Pacific: Security, Diplomacy, and Economics
U.S. Foreign Aid: Analysis of Trends and Effectiveness
Arms Control and American Foreign Policy: A Review of Key Agreements
U.S.-EU Relations: Trade, Security, and Diplomatic Perspectives
American Policy Towards Israel and Palestine: A Critical Evaluation
The Iran Nuclear Deal and U.S. Foreign Policy: A Comprehensive Study
Global Health and American Foreign Policy: Priorities and Challenges
Climate Diplomacy in U.S. Foreign Policy: A Study of the Paris Agreement

American Government and Media Essay Topics

Media Influence on Presidential Elections: A Case Study
Influence of Media in Shaping Public Policy: An Analysis
The First Amendment: Press Freedom and Its Limits
Media Portrayal of U.S. Foreign Policy: A Critical Examination
Partisan Media and Polarization in American Politics: An Exploratory Study
Fake News and Its Influence on American Political Discourse
Public Broadcasting in America: A Historical Analysis
Digital Media and American Politics: Understanding the Shift
Social Media’s Influence on Political Mobilization: Case Studies From the U.S.
Media Bias in Coverage of Gun Control: A Comparative Study
Media Framing of Immigration Policies in the U.S.: A Discourse Analysis
Network News and Its Influence on Public Perception of the Presidency
The Power of Political Cartoons in Shaping Public Opinion
Censorship and Self-Censorship in American Media: A Comprehensive Study
Media Coverage of the Supreme Court: A Critical Review
Cable News and Polarization in U.S. Politics: A Longitudinal Study
The Role of Satirical News in American Political Discourse
Media and Public Perception of Climate Change Policies in America
Traditional Media vs. Social Media in U.S. Political Campaigns: A Comparative Analysis

American Political Parties and Elections Topics

Campaign Strategies in Modern American Elections: An Analysis
Transformative Elections in American History: Case Studies
Minor Political Parties in U.S. Electoral Politics: A Comparative Study
Influence of Lobbying on Election Outcomes: An Empirical Investigation
How Gerrymandering Shapes American Politics: A Comprehensive Review
American Presidential Primaries: A Historical Examination
The Electoral College: An Evaluation of Its Efficacy in Modern U.S. Politics
American Politics and the Issue of Voter Suppression: A Critical Study
Dynamics of Swing States in U.S. Presidential Elections: An In-Depth Analysis
Candidate Image Crafting in American Elections: A Semiotic Analysis
Polarization and Its Effect on American Elections: An Empirical Investigation
Public Financing in American Elections: A Comparative Study
Third-Party Candidates and Their Influence on U.S. Elections: An Exploratory Study
American Midterm Elections and Their Effect on Presidential Governance: An Analysis
Effects of Negative Campaigning in U.S. Elections: A Quantitative Study
Dynamics of Coalition Building in American Political Parties: A Case Study
Presidential Debates and Their Influence on Election Outcomes: An Empirical Investigation
Changes in Electoral Behavior in the American South: A Longitudinal Study
The Effect of Voter Turnout on Election Results: A Statistical Analysis
The Future of American Elections: Predicting Trends in the Digital Age

Government Research Paper Topics About the Executive Arm

Presidential Decision-Making in Times of Crisis: A Comparative Analysis
Foreign Policy Execution and the American President: A Critical Study
Cabinet Appointments and Policy Outcomes: An Empirical Investigation
Transformations in the Executive Office: A Historical Review
Executive Orders: A Quantitative Analysis of Their Use and Effectiveness
Exercise of Veto Power: A Comparative Study Across Presidential Administrations
War Powers and the U.S. Presidency: A Constitutional Analysis
American Presidency and the Pardon Power: A Legal Examination
Executive Privilege: Its Use and Misuse in American Politics
Presidential Succession and Continuity of Government: A Policy Analysis
Dynamics of Executive-Legislative Relations: An Interdisciplinary Study
The Vice Presidency: Evolution and Influence in Modern American Politics
Presidential Campaigns: Financing and Its Influence on Policy Outcomes
National Emergency Declarations and Presidential Power: A Constitutional Study
The Power of Persuasion: Rhetoric and the American Presidency
The Cabinet’s Influence on Presidential Decision-Making: A Qualitative Study
Presidential Nominations and the Confirmation Process: A Policy Analysis
Environmental Policy-Making in the Executive Branch: A Historical Review
Immigration Policy Execution and Presidential Discretion: A Comparative Analysis
National Security and the Use of Executive Power: A Critical Investigation

Legislative Branch of Government Essay Topics in American Politics

Committee Power in the U.S. Congress: A Quantitative Study
Bicameralism and Its Influence on Legislation: A Comparative Analysis
Parliamentary Procedure and Democratic Governance: A Policy Review
Policy-Making Dynamics in the Senate: A Historical Review
Congressional Oversight and Its Effect on Executive Power: A Qualitative Study
Gridlock in Congress: Causes, Consequences, and Solutions
House Rules Committee and Its Influence on Legislation: An Empirical Investigation
Legislative Agendas: Partisanship and Its Effects on Lawmaking
Lobbying and Influence in the Lawmaking Process: A Critical Analysis
Congressional Elections: Campaign Financing and Electoral Outcomes
Redistricting and Its Effect on the Balance of Power in Congress: A Quantitative Analysis
Filibuster and Its Impact on Legislative Efficiency: A Policy Analysis
Political Polarization in the House of Representatives: A Comparative Study
Congressional Ethics and Conduct: A Legal Examination
Minority Representation in the U.S. Congress: A Quantitative Analysis
Leadership Dynamics in Congress: A Historical Review
Term Limits and Legislative Productivity: An Empirical Investigation
Congressional Budgeting Process: A Critical Examination
Lawmaking and the Influence of Interest Groups: A Comparative Analysis
Checks and Balances: The Role of Congress in National Security Policy-Making

Political Behavior and American Government Essay Topics

Identity Politics and Policy Preferences in American Government
Shifts in American Political Behavior: Historical Analysis
Public Opinion, Ideology, and Policy Change in U.S. Politics
Media Consumption and Its Influence on Political Preferences
Digital Democracy: How the Internet Has Transformed Political Participation
Voting Behavior and Electoral Outcomes: An Empirical Examination
Effects of Civic Education on Political Engagement: A Comparative Study
Partisan Realignment and Its Consequences for American Politics
Dynamics of Political Polarization in Contemporary America
Political Trust and Its Relationship With Government Performance
Cultural Factors and Their Influence on Political Attitudes
Citizen Engagement and Its Relationship With Political Accountability
Exploring the Nexus Between Socioeconomic Status and Political Behavior
Environmental Concerns and Their Influence on Voting Behavior
Political Socialization and Its Impact on Political Affiliation
Understanding Populism in the Context of American Politics
Racial Politics and Its Effect on the American Government
Religious Beliefs and Their Influence on Political Behavior
Public Opinion and Foreign Policy: A Historical Analysis

Political Theory and American Government Essay Topics

Applying Rawlsian Justice to American Policy Making
Hobbes and the Foundation of American Political Structure
Lockean Ideals in the American Declaration of Independence
Exploring the Influence of Machiavellian Theory on U.S. Politics
Marxist Interpretations of American Economic Policies
Application of Communitarianism in U.S. Social Welfare Policies
Classical Republicanism and Its Echoes in American Government
Neo-Conservatism and Its Theoretical Foundations in U.S. Politics
Postmodern Perspectives on American Democracy
Utilitarianism and Its Reflection on American Economic Policies
Feminist Political Theory and Its Relevance in U.S. Politics
Concepts of Liberty in American Political Discourse: A Theoretical Analysis
Civil Disobedience: From Thoreau to Modern American Protests
Pluralism and Interest Group Politics in America
Exploring Libertarianism in the Context of U.S. Government Policies
Populism as a Political Theory: Reflections in American Politics
Deliberative Democracy in Practice: U.S. Town Hall Meetings
Contractualism and the American Constitution: A Theoretical Analysis
Understanding Identity Politics through the Lens of Queer Theory in the U.S.
Anarchist Theories and Their Relevance to American Political Movements

Public Policy and Administration Topics

Understanding Policy Feedback and Its Implications on Program Sustainability
Public Administration Reforms: Comparative Analysis of Best Practices
Fiscal Federalism and Public Policy Making in Decentralized Systems
Emergent Public Policy Challenges in Cybersecurity
Public Administration and Crisis Management: Lessons From the COVID-19 Pandemic
Public Policy Responses to Technological Disruption
Transparency, Accountability, and Ethics in Public Administration
Policy Diffusion in Intergovernmental Relations: Patterns and Challenges
Incorporating Behavioral Insights Into Public Policy Design
Interrogating the Influence of Lobbying on Public Policy
Urban Planning Policies and Sustainable Development Goals
Gender Mainstreaming Strategies in Public Policy and Administration
Public Administration’s Adaptation to Digital Transformation
Healthcare Policy Reforms: Balancing Efficiency and Equity
Exploring the Nexus of Public Policy and Social Justice
Multiculturalism in Public Policy: Incorporating Diversity in Service Delivery
Trade Policy Negotiations and National Interests: A Diplomatic Tightrope
Fostering Innovation and Creativity through Education Policies
Public Policy Making in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Opportunities and Challenges

Questions About the American Government

American Government System: Why Does It Operate on a Two-Party Structure?
Supreme Court Appointments: How Do They Influence the Balance of Power?
Understanding the Bill of Rights: Which Amendments Have Provoked the Most Controversy?
Federalism in America: How Does It Affect State Policies?
Impeachment Process in the United States: What Are the Criteria and Consequences?
Why Does the United States Employ an Electoral College in Presidential Elections?
American Government and Lobbying: Is There a Need for Stricter Regulations?
Deciphering the Role of Super PACs in American Politics: Are They a Necessity?
How Does Gerrymandering Influence Political Representation in America?
Citizens United Decision: What Are Its Implications on American Democracy?
Understanding the Powers and Limitations of the American Presidency: Is It Truly a Democratic Office?
How Does the American Constitution Protect Individual Rights?
Campaign Finance in American Elections: How Does It Affect Political Outcomes?
Functioning of the American Legislative Branch: What Makes It Efficient?
Why Do Executive Orders Play a Vital Part in the Functioning of the American Government?
Effect of Gridlock in Congress on American Policy Making: Is It Detrimental?
How Does Public Opinion Influence Government Decision-Making in the United States?
Influence of Interest Groups on American Government: Boon or Bane?
Bicameral Legislature in America: What Are Its Rationale and Significance?

State and Local Government Essay Topics in the American System

Decentralization Dynamics: A Study of Power Shifts in State and Local Governments
Strategizing Municipal Finance: Effective Revenue Generation Models
State Sovereignty vs. Federal Guidelines: An Examination of Conflict and Cooperation
Examining the Efficacy of Participatory Budgeting in Local Government
Local Governments and Environmental Sustainability: Policy Design and Implementation
Diversity in Local Government Leadership: A Comprehensive Analysis
Education Policy Formulation at the State Level: A Comparative Study
Municipal Bond Market: Understanding Its Function in Infrastructure Development
Public Health Management at the State Level: Lessons From Pandemic Response
Understanding Land Use Policy: A Perspective From Local Governments
Fiscal Decentralization: Its Effect on State and Local Economic Development
Urban Planning and Local Governments: A Critical Analysis of Current Practices
Evaluating the Effectiveness of State Governments in Disaster Management
State Government Pension Systems: An Analytical Review of Their Sustainability
Public Transportation Policy: A Case Study of State-Level Initiatives
Revenue Sharing Between States and Localities: An Assessment of Current Mechanisms
Local Government and Community Engagement: Strategies for Effective Citizen Participation
Accountability Measures in State Government: An Investigation of Transparency Practices
Public-Private Partnerships in Local Government: A Review of Best Practices
Challenges and Solutions in State-Level Cybersecurity Policy Implementation

The Constitution and Bill of Rights Topics

Interpreting Freedom: First Amendment Controversies in the Digital Age
Second Amendment Debates: Understanding the Constitution and Gun Control
Protection vs. Privacy: The Fourth Amendment in an Era of Technology
The Eighth Amendment: Contemporary Challenges in the Context of Criminal Justice
Dilemmas of Due Process: A Critical Examination of the Fifth Amendment
Origins and Applications: A Deep Dive Into the Tenth Amendment
Historical Analysis of Constitutional Amendments: Understanding Their Significance
Cultural Shifts and Constitutional Interpretation: Exploring the Changing Landscape
Examining the Thirteenth Amendment: The Legacy of Abolition and Modern-Day Implications
Constitutional Equality: The Unratified Equal Rights Amendment
The Nineteenth Amendment and Beyond: Women’s Suffrage and Contemporary Gender Politics
Voting Rights: The Twenty-Sixth Amendment and Current Debates on Age and Citizenship
The Jurisprudence of the Supreme Court: Notable Cases Interpreting the Bill of Rights
Constitutional Debates and Democracy: Analyzing the Balance of Powers
Influence of International Law on Constitutional Interpretation
How the Bill of Rights Influences Modern Social Movements
The Constitution and Indigenous Rights: Historical Context and Present Implications
Reevaluating the Commerce Clause: A Critical Exploration in the Context of Globalization
Constitutional Perspectives on Data Privacy and Protection

The Judicial Branch of Government Essay Topics in American Politics

Deciphering Judicial Independence: Origins, Challenges, and Prospects
Understanding the Supreme Court: Composition, Function, and Influence
Appointment Controversies: Analyzing the Supreme Court Nominations
Federal Courts and Politics: An Examination of Judicial Decision-Making
Checks and Balances: The Judiciary and the Executive Power
Courts as Policy Makers: Exploring Activism Within the Judicial Branch
The Art of Interpretation: Statutory Construction in the Supreme Court
From Marbury to Modernity: The Evolution of Judicial Review
Exploring Sentencing Disparities: An Examination of Federal Courts
Diversity in the Judiciary: Assessing Representation in Federal Courts
Law, Order, and Ethics: A Critical Analysis of Judicial Conduct
Public Perception and Confidence in the Judicial Branch
Case Precedent and Legal Stability: The Doctrine of Stare Decisis
Securing Justice: The Role of Federal Public Defenders
Judicial Power in the Context of Constitutional Crises
Assessing the Effectiveness of Specialized Courts: A Comparative Study
Judicial Restraint and Activism: Ideology in Supreme Court Rulings
The Federal Judiciary and Civil Liberties: Trends and Implications
Administrative Law and Federal Courts: A Study in Regulatory Litigation
International Law in U.S. Courts: Application and Controversy

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Lesson Plan: AP Government: Argumentative Essay Practice

The Federalist Papers

Boston College professor Mary Sarah Bilder gives a brief overview backgrounding the Federalist Papers

Description

This is intended as an end-of-course review activity for practice with the argumentative essay format included on the AP United States Government and Politics exam since the 2018 redesign. Eleven practice prompts are provided, reflecting content from Units 1-3.

ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY PROMPT ANALYSIS

Review the provided Argumentative Essay Prompts in either an individual or jigsaw format.
Write a thesis statement for your selected prompt(s) and identify the selection you would make from the provided list and the second piece of evidence you would choose.
If there are prompts for which you struggle to develop a thesis, or items on the bulleted lists with which you are not conversant, use the hyperlinked C-SPAN Classroom resources to extend your understanding of the required founding documents and SCOTUS cases that you found challenging.

ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY

Chose one or more of the provided Argumentative Essay Prompts , as assigned, and use the planning and exploration you did above to write a full essay in response to your designated prompt(s) in 25 or fewer minutes , since that's the time limit you'll face on the AP Exam!
Exchange essays with a classmate and evaluate each others' work.
1st Amendment
Branches Of Government
Constitution
House Of Representatives
Separation Of Powers
Supreme Court

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AP U.S. Government and Politics: Argument Essay

Question 4 of the AP U.S. Government and Politics free response section will always be the Argument Essay. These questions begin with a brief paragraph about a given topic, such as the balance between federal and state powers. The prompt will then give specific instructions about how you must format your essay, including a list of several required foundational documents that are relevant to the topic at hand. You will need to discuss one of the listed documents as well as another piece of specific evidence from your own knowledge.

Argument Essay Strategies

While the scoring for the first three free-response questions is more straightforward—you earn points (or not) based on fully addressing each part of the prompt—the scoring for the Argument Essay is a little more complex. The following rubric outlines what the AP readers are generally looking for when they grade your Argument Essay; note the various categories and the ways you can earn points.

Sample Question

Formulate a defensible thesis that establishes a chain of reasoning.
Federalist 10
U.S. Constitution
Take your other piece of evidence from a different foundational document from the list above OR from your own study.
Logically explain why your evidence supports your thesis.
Present and reply to an alternative viewpoint using refutation, concession, or rebuttal.

Step 1: Analyze the Prompt

Step 2: plan your response.

You’ll want to create a brief outline before you start writing, just like you would for any other full-length essay. As you saw from the rubric, AP readers are interested in your thesis development, your use of evidence, and your treatment of an alternative view. Everything you write should be toward one or more of those ends.

You will need to state a thesis that specifically addresses the prompt and makes a claim. Avoid rewording the prompt or being too general. A good question to ask yourself is, “Am I actually taking a position on this issue that someone else might argue against?” Also, while the Argument Essay necessitates a longer, more detailed response than the other free-response question types, it does not require a formal introduction; in fact, writing a lengthy introduction can take up valuable time and frustrate the AP reader who is scoring your essay. Assert your thesis as soon as possible, and then move into the rest of your response.

It is important to note that the Argument Essay’s topic and prompt wording will always intentionally allow for multiple positions. Therefore, you should be strategic and choose the position that you can best back up with evidence. You may even advocate for a different position than the one you personally agree with! To that end, no matter how strongly you feel about a topic, always present your evidence and claims in a balanced manner. Throughout your essay, even and especially when responding to an alternative viewpoint, avoid wording that makes it seem like your argument is simply your personal opinion (e.g., “I think” or “I believe,” or any language that is overly emotional).

With all of this in mind, a high-scoring writer might write the following outline:

Thesis: Trustee is the best model (ideals of Constitution)

Madison’s fear: large country + big gov’t = factions (many groups disagree)
Trustee can mediate, come to concl, act in best interests
Needed trustee model to make change
Civil rights and women’s rights movements
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Voting Rights Act of 1965

Response to alternative view: Anti-Feds would fear large repub (Brutus), but pol system in place would keep trustee honest

Step 3: Action! Write Response & Step 4: Proofread

Sample high-scoring response.

The trustee model of legislative representation is the best reflection of the founders’ intentions in setting up American democracy because it offers the best hope for what the Preamble to the Constitution calls “a more perfect union,” one that will bring together war- ring factions and increase harmony.

As James Madison pointed out in Federalist 10, it is inevitable that a republic will contain many groups which vehemently disagree. The bigger a country grows, the more frequent and violent factional clashes are likely to become. Madison was looking ahead to the U.S. that would burst the bounds of the original colonies and create more factionalism. This vision of an expanding, clashing nation makes the trustee model very appealing. A trustee Congressperson is one who will listen to all sides, make an independent judgment, but then go on to explain it so that opponents may be persuaded to change their minds, thus bringing resolution to conflicts.

A trustee is a representative willing to do the principled thing even if the public thinks otherwise. Many issues in our history have seemed so polarized that they were beyond resolution and could not wait for popular consensus. This was the case with civil rights issues and legislation in the 1960s. Technically, African Americans had the right to vote since the passage of the Fifteenth Amendment in 1870. However, this right was violently suppressed through intimidation tactics and a variety of restrictive measures such as poll taxes and literacy tests. It was not until the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 that substantial voting protections were extended to all black people. The Voting Rights Act outlawed literacy tests and other tactics; under this act, federal officials were sent to the South to ensure that African Americans were allowed to vote free from fear and intimidation, and the election practices of local governments were held under greater scrutiny. Civil rights movement leaders had challenged discriminatory practices for decades, but due to intense polarization in society, there was no public consensus on how to address racism in voting practices or even agreement as to whether to address it at all. Legislators had to go against the opinions of the majority in order to act in a way that advanced American ideals for all citizens, and the public eventually caught up.

Similarly, legislators pushed through the Civil Rights Act of 1964 which was supported by people within social movements but not by the general populace. Additionally, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 touched on the goals of not just the civil rights movement but also the women’s rights movement; for example, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act prohibited sex discrimination in public accommodations. Members of these movements had been working for years to get society at large to expand rights and protections to all people. However, if legislators had waited to act until a majority of their constituency approved of these civil rights bills, the bills may never have passed. In this way, the trustee model can be used to uphold the rights of the minority despite majority resistance.

The trustee idea would have been opposed by Brutus and other Anti-Federalists. Brutus 1 warns that a large republic would necessarily be disconnected from its people. Following this logic, a concern with the trustee model would be that the representative would deviate too far from the will of the people and become despotic. But it is important to note that the people have the ultimate voice if they disagree with the trustee’s judgments: the power of the ballot. The legislator’s desire to stay in power is a strong check on him or her, acting as an incentive to listen to constituents.

All in all, the trustee is in the best position to reduce the intense factionalism Madison feared. Even before the advance of mass media, the trustee had many means to learn of the people’s different views and to explain why the legislator was voting a certain way, or advancing this or that philosophy. This give and take of ideas surely helped to get the republic through its rocky early decades, and also helped the country to recover from the volatile growing pains and changes in the mid-twentieth century by finding ways to bring people together and advance equal rights for all.

Sample Response Explanation and Scoring

Thesis (0–1 pt): The writer sets up a clear X because Y sentence to introduce the thesis, which could be paraphrased as, The trustee model brings about harmony. Everything that follows is connected to the founders’ ideal of harmony. The writer would therefore earn 1 point for Thesis.
Support (0–3 pts): There is more than enough evidence to gain the full 3 points for Support, as the writer explains Madison’s argument in Federalist 10 and elaborates upon relevant historical examples of disharmony that those acting as trustees helped to fix through assertive actions. In addition, the references to the Constitution and Brutus 1 (while unnecessary for earning full credit in Support) show a strong command of course material.
Reasoning (0–1 pt): The writer earns the 1 point for Reasoning by clearly explaining how a trustee offers the best hope for Madison’s vision. Specifically, the writer asserts in paragraphs 3 and 4 how trustees could not wait for public opinion in order to act.
Reply to Alternative Viewpoint (0–1 pt): There is a whole paragraph at the end dedicated to rebutting the Anti-Federalists’ objections. In this way, the writer makes it clear that this requirement has been met and earns the final 1 point.

Question-Specific Rubric: 6 points (1 + 3 + 1 + 1)

Learn more about the other free response questions on the AP U.S. Government and Politics exam. Concept Application • Quantitative Analysis • SCOTUS Comparison

AP US Government and Politics Scotus Comparison

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, need ideas for government-related argumentative essay topics.

My AP Gov teacher assigned us an argumentative essay and I'm kinda stuck on choosing a topic. Anyone got suggestions for interesting government-related topics that I could use for my essay? Much appreciated!

I'm happy to help you brainstorm some interesting government-related topics for your argumentative essay! Here's a list of ideas:

1. Campaign finance reform: Explore the pros and cons of implementing stricter regulations on campaign contributions, such as limiting the influence of Super PACs or reducing the impact of dark money in politics.

2. Electoral College reform: Discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks of changing the current Electoral College system, with alternatives such as direct popular vote or ranked-choice voting.

3. Separation of powers: Analyze the effectiveness of the current separation of powers between the three branches of government, and consider whether additional checks and balances are needed.

4. Privacy rights vs. national security: Examine the ongoing debate surrounding government surveillance and the potential infringement on individual privacy rights in the name of national security.

5. Mandatory voting: Explore the idea of implementing compulsory voting in the United States like some other countries, weighing the pros and cons of increased civic engagement vs. potential coercion or infringement on personal freedom.

6. Gerrymandering: Investigate the impact of gerrymandering on the U.S political system and consider various reform proposals to eliminate or minimize the practice.

7. Term limits for Congress: Discuss the potential advantages and disadvantages of instituting term limits for U.S. Representatives and Senators, analyzing the potential impact on government efficiency vs. the loss of experienced lawmakers.

8. Reducing the influence of special interest groups: Examine the role of special interest groups and lobbyists in shaping policy, and discuss potential reforms to reduce their power in the legislative process.

9. Universal basic income: Explore the potential benefits and drawbacks of implementing a universal basic income (UBI) program in the U.S., considering factors like poverty reduction, economic growth, and potential changes in incentives to work.

10. Government healthcare: Analyze the pros and cons of implementing a single-payer healthcare system or expanding the existing Affordable Care Act (ACA) in the United States, taking into account potential impacts on healthcare coverage, affordability, and quality.

I hope this list sparks some inspiration! Good luck with your argumentative essay, and remember to provide strong evidence for your chosen stance to make your argument convincing.

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Debate Topics

Need to write an argumentative essay? Preparing for an upcoming debate? ProCon.org has over 100 topics complete with pro and con arguments, quotes and statistics from experts, historical information, and other pertinent research.

Abortion – Should abortion be legal?

Alternative Energy – Can alternative energy effectively replace fossil fuels?

American Socialism – Should the U.S. become socialist?

Animal Dissection – Should K-12 students dissect animals in science classrooms?

Animal Testing – Should animals be used for scientific or commercial testing?

Artificial Intelligence – Is artificial intelligence good for society?

Banned Books – Should parents or other adults be able to ban books from schools and libraries?

Binge-Watching – Is binge-watching good for you?

Cancel Culture – Is cancel culture (or callout culture) good for society?

CBD for Pets – Is CBD good for pets?

Cell Phone Radiation – Is cell phone radiation safe?

Cheerleading – Is cheerleading a sport?

Churches & Taxes – Should churches (including mosques, synagogues, etc.) remain tax-exempt?

College Education – Is a college education worth it?

Congressional Term Limits – Should term limits be imposed on U.S. Senators and Representatives?

Constitutional Carry of Handguns – Should permitless, “constitutional carry” of guns be legal?

Corporal Punishment – Should corporal punishment be used in K-12 schools?

Corporate Tax Rate – Should the federal corporate income tax rate be raised?

Cuba Embargo – Should the United States maintain its embargo against Cuba?

DACA & Dreamers – Are DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) and the DREAM Act good for America?

Daylight Saving Time – Should the United States keep daylight saving time?

DC AND Puerto Rico Statehood – Should Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico be granted U.S. statehood?

Death Penalty – Should the death penalty be legal?

Defund the Police – Should police departments be defunded, if not abolished?

Dress Codes – Should dress codes be implemented and enforced?

Drinking Age – Should the drinking age be lowered from 21 to a younger age?

Drone Strikes – Should the United States continue its use of drone strikes abroad?

Drug Use in Sports – Should performance-enhancing drugs be accepted in sports?

Election Day National Holiday – Should the election day be made a national holiday?

Electoral College – Should the United States use the electoral college in presidential elections?

Employer Vaccine Mandates – Should employers be able to mandate vaccinations?

Felon Voting – Should people who have completed felony sentences be allowed to vote?

Fighting in Hockey – Should fighting be allowed in hockey?

Filibuster – Should the U.S. Senate keep the filibuster?

Fracking – Should the United States continue fracking

Free College – Should public college be tuition-free?

Fur Clothing Bans – Should fur clothing be banned?

GMOS – Should genetically modified organisms (GMOs) be grown?

Gold Standard – Should the United States return to a gold standard?

Golf – Is golf a sport and are golfers athletes?

Gun Control – Should more gun control laws be enacted?

Historic Statue Removal – Should historic statues be taken down?

Homework – Is homework beneficial?

Illegal Immigration – Should the U.S. government provide a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants?

Internet – Is the internet “making us stupid?”

Kneeling during the National Anthem – Is kneeling during the national anthem an appropriate form of protest?

Mandatory National Service – Should the United States have mandatory national service?

Medical Aid in Dying (MAID) – Should medical aid in dying be legal?

Medical Marijuana – Should medical marijuana be legal?

Milk – Should humans consume dairy milk?

Minimum Wage – Should the federal minimum wage be increased?

Net Neutrality – Should the U.S. have net neutrality laws?

Obesity – Is obesity a disease?

Olympics – Are the Olympic games an overall benefit for their host countries and cities?

OTC Birth Control Pills – Should birth control pills be available over-the-counter (OTC)?

Penny – Should the penny stay in circulation?

Pit Bull Bans – Should breed-specific legislation (“pit bull bans”) be enacted?

Pokémon – Is Pokémon Go good for our society?

Police Body Cameras – Should police officers wear body cameras?

Prescription Drug Costs – Should the U.S. federal government regulate prescription drug prices?

Presidential Election, 2024 – 2024 Presidential Election Site

Private Prisons – Should prisons be privatized?

Recreational Marijuana – Should recreational marijuana be legal?

Reparations for Slavery – Should the federal government pay reparations to the descendants of slaves?

Right to Healthcare – Should all Americans have the right (be entitled) to health care?

Sanctuary Cities – Should sanctuary cities receive federal funding?

Santa Claus – Is there really a Santa Claus?

Saturday Halloween – Should Halloween be moved permanently to Saturday?

School Uniforms – Should students have to wear school uniforms?

Single-use Plastics Ban – Should single-use plastics be banned?

Social Media & Digital Addiction – Does social media spur digital addiction and other social ills?

Social Security Privatization – Should social security be privatized?

Space Colonization – Should humans colonize space?

Standardized Tests – Do standardized tests improve education in America?

Student Loan Debt – Should student loan debt be eliminated via forgiveness or bankruptcy?

TikTok Bans – Should TikTok be banned?

Uber & Lyft – Are ride-sharing companies a benefit to society?

Universal Basic Income (UBI) – Should the United States implement a universal basic income?

U.S. Supreme Court Packing – Should packing the U.S. Supreme Court ever be considered?

Vaccines for Kids – Should states be allowed to mandate vaccines for school attendance??

Vaping E-Cigarettes – Is vaping e-cigarettes safe?

Vegetarianism – Should people become vegetarian?

Video Games & Violence – Do violent video games contribute to youth violence?

Voting Age – Should the voting age be lowered to 16?

Voting Machines – Are electronic voting machines the best method for voting?

Zoos – Should zoos exist?

Archived Topics

Please note that ProCon no longer updates these debates.

ACLU – Is the ACLU good for America?

Big Three Bailout – Should the big three car manufacturers be bailed out by the U.S. government?

Born Gay – Is sexual orientation determined at birth?

Climate Change – Is human activity primarily responsible for global climate change?

College Football Playoffs – Should college football replace the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) with a playoff system?

Dakota Access Pipeline – Should the Dakota Access Pipeline be completed?

D.A.R.E. – Is the D.A.R.E. program good for America’s kids (K-12)?

Gay Marriage – Should gay marriage be legal?

Congressional Insider Trading – Should insider trading by Congress be allowed?

Israeli-Palestinian Conflict – What are the solutions to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?

Obamacare – Is the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) good for America?

Paying College Athletes – Should colleges and universities pay college athletes?

President Bill Clinton – Was Bill Clinton a good president?

President Ronald Reagan – Was Ronald Reagan a good president?

Presidential Election, 2008 – Which candidate would make the best U.S. president?

Presidential Election, 2012 – Which candidate should be U.S. president in 2012?

Presidential Election, 2016 – The candidates and where they stand on the issues

Presidential Election, 2020 – 2020 Presidential Election Site

Prostitution – Should prostitution be legal?

School Vouchers – Should states have school voucher programs?

Tablets v. Textbooks -Should tablets replace textbooks in K-12 schools?

Teacher Tenure – Should teachers get tenure?

Under God in the Pledge – Should the words “under god” be in the U.S. Pledge of Allegiance?

U.S. Drone Shot down by Iran – Was the U.S. drone shot down by Iran over international waters?

U.S.-Iraq War – Should the U.S. have attacked Iraq?

WTC Muslim Center – Is it appropriate to build a muslim community center (aka the ”ground zero mosque”) near the World Trade Center site?

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Political Science Essay Topics

Get Inspired by 200 Political Science Essay Topic Ideas

15 min read

Published on: May 8, 2023

Last updated on: Jan 31, 2024

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Political science is a fascinating and ever-evolving field that seeks to understand the complex workings of politics. As a student of political science, writing essays on political science topics can be an excellent way to deepen your knowledge.

But finding an excellent topic for your essay is often the most difficult part. Don’t worry if you’re stuck at choosing a topic - delve into our list of topics to find inspiration!

In this blog, we've compiled a list of almost 200 political science essay topics. This list covers a wide range of topics and subfields within political science. These thought-provoking essay topics will inspire you to explore new ideas and develop a deeper understanding of the subject.

So let’s delve into it!

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Public Policy and Administration Essay Topics

The role of public policy in promoting sustainable development.
An analysis of the impact of social media on public policy decision-making.
The challenges of implementing public policy in diverse cultural contexts.
A comparative study of public healthcare policies in different countries.
The role of public-private partnerships in promoting economic development.
An evaluation of the effectiveness of public policy in addressing climate change.
The impact of globalization on public policy and administration.
The challenges of balancing individual rights and public safety in policy-making.
An analysis of the role of bureaucracy in public policy administration.
The ethical challenges facing public policy decision-makers and administrators.

Political Theory and Political Philosophy Essay Topics

The concept of justice in political philosophy
The views on power in political philosophy
The relationship between democracy and capitalism in political theory.
The role of civil disobedience in democratic societies: a philosophical perspective.
The relationship between individual freedom and social responsibility in political theory.
The role of the state in ensuring social justice in modern democracies.
A critical analysis of the concept of sovereignty.
The relationship between ethics and politics in the work of Aristotle.
A comparative study of the political thought of Plato and Machiavelli.
Feminist political theory and its role in promoting gender equality in democratic societies.

Comparative Politics Essay Topics

What are the different electoral systems used in democratic countries?
The role of political parties in democratic governance: a comparative analysis.
The impact of religion on politics in different countries: a comparative study.
The challenges of democratic consolidation in transitional societies: a comparative perspective.
A comparative analysis of the welfare state in different countries.
The role of civil society in democratic governance: a comparative study.
A comparative study of the political systems of federal and unitary states.
The impact of historical legacies on contemporary political systems: a comparative analysis.
A comparative analysis of the parliamentary and presidential systems of government.
The impact of globalization on political systems: a comparative study.

Political Economy Essay Topics

The impact of globalization on economic inequality: a critical analysis.
The role of the state in economic development: a comparative study.
A comparative study of capitalist and socialist economic systems.
The relationship between economic growth and environmental sustainability.
The impact of technological innovation on economic development.
The role of multinational corporations in shaping global economic governance.
A comparative study of the economic policies of different political regimes.
The impact of financialization on the global economy.
The relationship between trade liberalization and economic growth: a critical analysis.
The role of international organizations in shaping global economic governance.

American Politics and Government Essay Topics

The impact of political polarization on American democracy.
Government influence in the economics of the US.
Culture wars as the most important political issue in contemporary United States
The challenges of federalism in a diverse and complex society.
A critical analysis of the role of interest groups in American politics.
The impact of media on American politics and public opinion.
A comparative study of the voting systems used in different American states.
The role of the Electoral College in American presidential elections.
The impact of money on American politics: a case study of a recent election.
A critical analysis of the role of the Constitution in shaping American politics and society.

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International Relations and Diplomacy Essay Topics

The impact of globalization on international relations.
A comparative study of the foreign policies of major powers.
The role of diplomacy in conflict resolution: a case study of a recent conflict.
The impact of economic interdependence on international relations.
The role of international law and diplomacy in global governance.
The role of the United Nations in promoting international peace and security.
The role of soft power in shaping international relations
The impact of nationalism on international relations.
The relationship between technology and diplomacy in the 21st century.
The threat of nuclear weapons and nuclear war

Essay Topics About Regional Politics

How has the European Union navigated the challenges posed by Brexit and the rise of right-wing populism?
What role does the African Union play in promoting regional integration and economic development on the continent?
How successful has ECOWAS been in promoting peace and security in West Africa?
What challenges does ASEAN face in promoting economic integration and regional cooperation in Southeast Asia?
How has SAARC contributed to regional stability and economic development in South Asia?
What impact has the BRICS group had on global economic governance and geopolitics?
What are the implications of China's increasing influence in the Asia-Pacific region for regional stability and security?
How have the member states of Caricom worked together to promote economic integration and development in the Caribbean?
The evolution of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and its role in the Middle East?
How have regional organizations and powers responded to the COVID-19 pandemic, and what lessons can be learned from their experiences?

Political Science Education and Career Essay Topics

The benefits of studying political science for a career in public service.
The job prospects for political science graduates.
The impact of technology on the future of political science careers.
A comparative analysis of political science programs offered by different universities.
The role of internships in preparing political science students for a career in public service.
Diversity and inclusion in political science education and careers.
The salaries and benefits of political science professionals.
The role of professional associations in supporting political science education and careers.
The skills required for a successful career in political science.
The impact of globalization on political science education and careers.

Essay Topics About Political Parties and Elections

The impact of financial influence in politics on democratic elections.
The role of political parties in shaping democratic elections.
The impact of social media on political campaigns and elections.
A critical analysis of voter suppression in recent elections.
The role of interest groups in shaping election outcomes.
A comparative study of primary election systems used in different states.
The impact of political advertising on voter behavior.
A critical analysis of the role of political action committees in shaping election outcomes.
The impact of gerrymandering on democratic representation.
The role of charismatic leadership in elections

Essay Topics About Political Ideologies

An analysis of the major political ideologies: liberalism, conservatism, socialism, and fascism.
The role of ideology in shaping public policy.
A critical analysis of the relationship between democracy and different political ideologies.
The impact of globalization on the spread of political ideologies.
A comparative analysis of feminist and gender-based political ideologies.
The role of religion in shaping political ideologies.
A critical analysis of the intersection of race and political ideologies.
A study of the political ideologies behind different social movements.
The role of political ideologies in shaping political parties and elections.
The impact of political ideologies on political violence and terrorism.

Essay Topics About Human Rights and Justice

A critical analysis of the role of international law in promoting human rights and justice.
The impact of globalization on human rights and justice.
A comparative study of the human rights and justice systems in different countries.
The role of the United Nations in promoting human rights and justice.
A critical analysis of the intersection of human rights and social justice movements.
The impact of human rights abuses on democratic governance.
The role of civil society organizations in promoting human rights and justice.
A comparative study of restorative and retributive justice systems.
The impact of technology on the promotion and protection of human rights.
The role of the media in promoting human rights and justice.

Essay Topics About Gender and Politics

Representation of women in politics in different countries.
The impact of gender on voting behavior and political participation.
A critical analysis of the intersection of race and gender in politics.
The role of gender in shaping public policy.
A comparative analysis of the political representation of women in different regions.
The impact of social media on the gendered nature of political discourse.
A critical analysis of the gendered dimensions of political violence and conflict.
The role of gender in shaping political leadership styles.
A comparative study of the impact of gender quotas on political representation.
The role of feminist movements in shaping political agendas.

Essay Topics About Environmental Politics

The impact of climate change on global politics.
The role of international organizations in shaping environmental policies.
A comparative study of the environmental policies of different countries.
The impact of environmental policies on economic development.
The relationship between environmental justice and social justice.
The role of civil society organizations in shaping environmental policies.
Market-based vs command-and-control environmental policies.
The impact of the media on shaping public opinion on environmental issues.
A critical analysis of the relationship between environmental politics and global governance.
The role of science in shaping environmental policies.

Essay Topics About Media and Politics

The role of media in shaping political discourse.
The impact of social media on political communication and participation.
A comparative analysis of media systems and their impact on political outcomes.
The role of media in shaping public opinion and electoral outcomes.
An analysis of the relationship between media ownership and political bias.
The impact of fake news and disinformation on political processes and outcomes.
A comparative study of media regulation in different countries.
The role of investigative journalism in holding political leaders accountable.
The impact of media consolidation on political diversity and representation.
The relationship between media and democracy.

Essay Topics About Political Culture and Identity

The relationship of political culture on democratic governance.
The role of cultural identities in shaping political behavior.
The impact of cultural diversity on political processes and outcomes.
A critical analysis of the role of nationalism in shaping political identities.
The impact of populism on political culture and identity.
The role of gender and sexuality in shaping political identities.
A critical analysis of the relationship between religion and politics.
The impact of migration on cultural identities and political participation.
The role of art and culture in shaping political identity and activism.
The relationship between language and political identity.

Essay Topics About Political Geography and Geopolitics

A study of the impact of geography on political boundaries and territorial disputes.
A comparative analysis of political systems in different regions of the world.
The impact of natural resources on geopolitical relations and conflicts.
A critical analysis of the role of global institutions in shaping geopolitical outcomes.
The impact of infrastructure development on geopolitical relations.
A comparative study of the influence of colonialism on modern political geography.
The role of geography in shaping economic development policies.
The impact of migration on political geography and geopolitics.
The impact of climate change on political geography and geopolitics.
The role of technological innovation in shaping political geography and geopolitics.

Essay About Political Leadership and Decision-making

A critical analysis of the qualities and characteristics of effective political leaders.
The impact of leadership styles on decision-making in politics.
A comparative analysis of leadership styles and their impact on political outcomes.
The role of emotions and intuition in political decision-making.
The relationship between power and leadership in politics.
The impact of charismatic leadership on political influence.
The decision-making process in crisis situations in politics.
The role of communication skills in effective political leadership and decision-making.
A comparative analysis of the decision-making process in democratic and authoritarian systems.
The rise of global populist leadership.

Essay Topics About War and Peace

The causes and consequences of war in the modern era.
The effectiveness of different conflict resolution mechanisms.
The role of international law in regulating armed conflicts and promoting peace.
The role of peacekeeping operations in managing conflicts.
The impact of new technologies on the dynamics of modern warfare.
A comparative study of different approaches to peacebuilding and their effectiveness.
The role of diplomacy in preventing and resolving conflicts.
A study of the relationship between economic interdependence and peace.
The role of media in shaping public perceptions of war and peace.
The impact of environmental factors on the risk of conflict and the prospects for peace.

Political Argumentative Essay Topics

Should the United Nations have the authority to intervene in sovereign nations to prevent human rights abuses?
Is democracy the best form of government, or are there other viable alternatives?
Should the government have the right to regulate free speech in order to protect against hate speech and incitement to violence?
To what extent should the government be involved in regulating the economy?
Should the electoral college be abolished in favor of a popular vote for presidential elections?
Is democracy the ideal political system for every country in the world?
Should political candidates be required to release their tax returns in order to run for office?
Is political correctness a threat to free speech and academic freedom?
Should the government be responsible for ensuring access to affordable healthcare for all citizens?
Should the right to bear arms be protected, or should gun ownership be more strictly regulated for public safety?

Political Science Persuasive Essay Topics

The government should provide universal healthcare to all citizens.
Elected officials should be required to disclose their financial interests and conflicts of interest.
Renewable energy sources should be prioritized over fossil fuels to combat climate change.
The electoral college should be abolished in favor of a popular vote for presidential elections.
Voter ID laws should be eliminated to ensure fair and equal access to the ballot box.
The United States should increase its investment in education and reduce its military spending.
The minimum wage should be raised to a living wage in order to combat poverty.
The United States should adopt a policy of open borders and allow for more immigration.
The government should regulate social media platforms to combat the spread of misinformation and hate speech.
The United States should take a more active role in combating human rights abuses and promoting democracy around the world.

How to Choose a Political Science Topic for Your Essay

Now that you have read some good political science essay topic ideas, you must be wondering which one to choose. This is because with so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to find the right topic.

Here are some tips to help you choose a topic:

Choose a Topic that Interests you:

It is essential to choose a topic that you are passionate about. This will make the research and writing process more enjoyable and engaging.

Do Your Research:

Conduct preliminary research on each of your potential topics to see if there is enough literature and data available. You can use academic databases, books, and reputable websites to gather information.

Consider your Audience:

Think about your audience and what they might find interesting and relevant. Choose a topic that is not only relevant to your course but also to the broader political context.

Narrow Down your Focus:

Once you have a list of potential topics, narrow them down to a few that are more specific and manageable. You can do this by asking yourself questions such as, "What is the purpose of my essay?" and "What is my main argument?"

Keep it Relevant:

Choose a topic that is current and relevant to the present political landscape or the course you are studying. This will help keep your essay engaging and informative.

Consult with your Instructor:

Finally, if you are unsure about your topic or have questions about the assignment, don't hesitate to consult with your instructor. They can offer valuable insights and advice on how to approach your topic and structure your essay.

To Wrap it Up,

Political science is a fascinating field that offers a lot of topics for students to study. It's important to choose a topic that is both interesting to you and relevant to the course material.

With the list of 200 essay topics provided above, you can get an inspiration for your own essay. Moreover, by following the tips for choosing a topic, you can narrow down your options to find a manageable and engaging topic.

Struggling with your political science essay? Our expert essay helpers are here to assist you every step of the way. Trust our political science essay writing service to deliver top-notch papers tailored to your needs.

And for an even smoother writing experience, don't forget to explore our AI essay writer tool .

Cordon J. (Education)

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

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Sample Prompts for the Argument Essay FRQ- AP government

Below are 16 topics, each of which includes:

A sample essential question which introduces the prompt
A draft prompt including three founding documents that could help shape the students’ arguments.

Each prompt is crafted to encourage deep analysis and aligns with key AP Government concepts, ensuring your students are well-prepared for exam success.

AP Government Argument Essay Samples

NEW ! Media censorship: Should the government play an active role in the censorship of social media?
Independent judiciary: Is an independent judiciary a threat to or a savior for democracy?
Congressional roles: Does the delegate or trustee model of Congressional representation best serve the needs of the people as the Framers intended?
Federalism in the Age of Coronavirus: Should the federal government or the states be most responsible for responding to the Coronavirus outbreak?
Political Parties: Do political parties hinder or promote democracy?
Congressional oversight : Is congressional oversight healthy or unhealthy for our system of government?
Interest groups: Do interest groups hinder or promote democracy?
Civil Rights: Should the federal government have power over states in the shaping of civil rights policies?
Citizen participation: Does citizen participation really matter?
Photo IDs and federalism: Do states have the authority to pass photo identification laws which restrict people’s ability to vote?
Presidential power: Do executive orders give the president too much power?
Gridlock: Is gridlock healthy or unhealthy for our system of government?
Term limits: Do congressional term limits violate or honor popular sovereignty?
Primaries and caucuses: Is the presidential nominating process democratic?
Social Media : Is social media a healthy way for citizens to participate in our political system?
Electoral College: Should the electoral college be abolished?
Representative versus direct democracy: Which is a better vehicle to serve citizen needs– a representative or direct democracy?

Enhance Your Classroom Experience! You understand the challenges of keeping students engaged and preparing them for the AP exam. Our carefully curated essay prompts are designed to align with AP standards, fostering critical thinking and discussion in your classroom. Get ready to inspire your students with materials that cater to the dynamic world of government and politics.

For more resources for AP government, visit HERE

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Writing in Government

How do i write a gov paper .

Expos teaches you about the fundamentals of writing an analytical argument. As you write papers in Gov, you are adapting the elements of argument to a particular audience: readers in the social sciences. These readers have specific expectations about how to present arguments and supporting evidence. Writing successfully in Gov requires you to identify those expectations in assignment prompts and then respond to them by making well-supported and clearly reasoned arguments.

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"Everybody's work has to stand or fall on the basis of the arguments presented and the evidence." - Prof. Eric Nelson

Do the Exercise

In these exercises, you have two goals: to identify the common elements of essay prompts, and to learn strategies for developing arguments that respond effectively to the expectations presented by a given prompt.

Decoding Prompts

Developing a thesis.

What to Do:

Prepare by reading about the elements of paper prompts in the "Tips" tool to the right.
Read the three sample prompts below and select one to work with.
Answer the questions in the text boxes below the sample prompts.
Write a 1-sentence version in your own words of the prompt you have selected. You can do this in the first “Re-write” box below the questions.
Try re-writing the other two prompts in a single sentence.

Please note that these forms are not monitored; no feedback will be sent at this time.

Sample Prompts

1. The traditional definition of democracy is captured by Schumpeter’s statement that democracy is the “institutional arrangement for arriving at political decisions in which individuals acquire the power to decide by means of a competitive struggle for the people’s vote.” Is Schumpeter’s “free competition for the free vote” a sufficient conceptual and normative definition of “democracy”? What else, if anything, would you add to this definition?

2. The majority of Gov 97 has focused on state actors, but the Internet is a whole new non-state world that currently has little to no formal governance. Should the Internet be governed democratically? What does it mean to have democratic governance of the Internet? (Will there be elected bodies? Will the Internet be governed by democratic principles?) If you were on a committee to develop Internet governance, what democratic processes (if any) would you recommend? Why?

3. How do new technologies affect democratic politics? We have read a number of accounts of traditional forms of democratic participation and democratic institutions – choose one topic or outcome (e.g. elections, campaign finance, regime change, economic institutions, the welfare state, democratic peace etc.) that we have read about, and think about how new technologies challenge or add to traditional theories about that outcome.

( Taken from Gov 97, Spring 2015)

Understanding Prompts

Design and purpose.

Instructors have two main goals with most prompts: First, they want to test how well you’ve understood assigned material for the course and gauge your progress over the term. Second, they want to encourage you to think about certain questions in a way that may not be directly covered in the course materials themselves. In this way, prompts facilitates guided learning through writing.

In most cases, the instructor will have both of these goals in mind. Depending on the assignment, though, one goal may carry greater emphasis than the other.

Central Question

This is the main question that the instructor wants you to answer. It may be a yes/no question, where you need to agree or disagree with a given statement. Or it may be an open-ended question, where you need to develop your own line of argument. Either way, the central question is the core of the paper, i.e., the question your instructor is asking in order to test your knowledge about material from the course or to encourage you to develop a reasoned opinion based on that material. Your thesis statement should respond directly to this central question.

Example of a central question:

What do you think is Aristotle’s strongest justification for participatory citizenship?

Example of a multi-part central question:

What do you think is Aristotle’s strongest justification for participatory citizenship? Does it translate from ancient democracy to the present; does it apply today?

Supporting Questions

In addition to the central question, prompts typically include additional points to consider as you write your paper, and these points often come in the form of secondary or supporting questions. Supporting questions are meant to prompt your thinking and can help remind you of important debates that may exist within the topic you are writing about.

That being said, prompts made up of more than one question can be harder to decode. For one thing, the first question in the prompt is not always the central question, and it might be possible to interpret more than one of the questions as the central question. This ambiguity might be intentional (to allow students to write a range of essays), or it might be unintentional. For these reasons, it is always helpful to try putting the prompt in your own words. What is the central question being asked? And what is the central question your paper is answering with its thesis? What are the supporting questions being asked? And how will your paper answer those questions in relation to your thesis?

In the following example prompt, notice how the first set of questions (greyed out and in italics) form a multi-part central question about an idea of Aristotle and its relevance to the present day. The subsequent supporting questions provide a number of possible directions in which to elaborate on this question, but none of these supporting questions should be the main focus of an argument responding to this particular prompt.

Example:

What do you think is Aristotle’s strongest justification for participatory citizenship? Does it translate from ancient democracy to the present; does it apply today? How do modern democracies define citizenship? Do modern democratic institutions (representation, voting and elections, political parties) and/or the organized groups of civil society (voluntary associations, demonstrations, social movements) provide arenas for political participation? If so, how and why is participation valued? If not, why not, and how is the division of political labor justified?

Additional Cues

Prompts often provide cues about what should or shouldn't be the focus of a writing assignment. For instance, there may be debates or themes that have been raised in the course, but which are not meant to be the particular focus of the paper at hand. In the following excerpt from a prompt, you can see that Aristotle's definition of "citizen" is crucial, but the goal of the essay is to use the definition to make a further point, rather than getting bogged down in the definition itself.

Example from a Gov prompt:

In the Politics , Aristotle defined a citizen as someone who takes turns in ruling and being ruled, identified who was eligible (and ineligible) for citizenship, gave an account of citizens’ judgment, and set out reasons for popular political participation.

Restrictions

Prompts often include additional requirements that either guide or limit a writing assignment. These restrictions are usually straightforward requirements for the essay's form (how long it should be) or for its content (what question(s) it should answer and which sources or cases it should use).

You must analyze Aristotle’s text
You may pick just one or two government institutions or civil society groups to  illustrate your answer.
You must refer to at least two authors (in addition to Aristotle) in composing your  response.
Prepare by reading about the elements of thesis statements in the "Tips" tool to the right.
Read the sample prompt below.
Answer the questions in the text boxes below the sample prompts.

Sample Prompt & Theses

Making reference to the cases of Rwanda and Yugoslavia, construct an argument that addresses the following questions: When you consider the various theories you've encountered about the emergence of ethnic politics in your readings as well as in lecture, how well (or how poorly) do specific elements of these two cases fit those theories? What is the strongest explanation overall for why ethnic violence broke out in these two cases and eventually assumed the proportions it did? Does the same answer apply to both cases, or do different answers best explain Rwanda and Yugoslavia separately?

The Rwandan and Yugoslav genocides were similar in some ways. In other ways, though, they were different.
Ethnic politics leads to the emergence of ethnic violence.
I argue that ethnic politics is important for understanding violence in Rwanda and Yugoslavia and for explaining the genocides there.
Rwanda and Yugoslavia both experienced similar levels of ethnic politics and ethnic violence during the 1990s and followed similar paths to genocide.
Ethnic politics does not always lead to ethnic violence, but in cases where the state collapses like it did in Rwanda and Yugoslavia, the path from ethnic politics to genocide will be similar.

Taken from Gov 20, Fall 2015

What is an Argument?

In the social sciences, an argument typically make claims about the way the world works. It argues that the world is one way rather than another, and explains why it is that way .

The first part of the bolded statement above is really important. In social science courses, you will rarely be asked to just summarize a set of facts. You will instead be asked to make assertions about how something came to be or how some phenomenon caused another.

This implies a counterfactual , which is a statement about how the world would have been, if something else had happened. For example, you might argue that polarization in American politics is caused by people moving to areas where most people share their political beliefs. This implies that if people didn't move to neighborhoods or cities with like-minded people, there wouldn't be polarization. But they do , so there is .

The first part of the bolded statement above also implies that you will give evidence to show us that your argument is correct.

The latter part of the statement, in turn, implies that you will show us the "why" of the phenomenon you're looking at: how exactly does it work?

Thesis Requirements

A thesis statement will be in response to a specific question, whether that question is explicitly asked in a prompt or is a question you have yourself developed in response to course readings or class discussions. Therefore, your thesis statement should clearly be an answer to a question!

Your answer should not just contain a "what is" statement, but a statement of "how" your argument works. What is the "mechanism" of your argument? If you say that wealth causes democracy, make sure the “how” or “because” is also clearly previewed in your thesis.

This is also your introduction to the reader of what the paper’s really about, and it is your chance to explain how the paper will work. It should prepare them for the direction the paper is going, so they know what kinds of evidence they should expect.

In college-level papers, thesis statements can be more than one sentence long. Being concise is good, but it's ok to have a slightly longer thesis statement if your thesis is somewhat complex, e.g., if there are two or three steps in the "how" part of your paper.

Scope Conditions

Most papers are not about making universal arguments that showcase everything you know, but about making an valid argument within a set of parameters that are either provided by the assignment itself, or that you decide to keep your argument clear and effective.

In writing, be clear: what are the “scope conditions” of your argument? In other words, under what conditions or in which cases is your argument valid?

Example: “In democracies,” i.e., not for every country we’ve looked at, but only for democracies.

Example: “Among late developers” i.e., only in those countries that developed recently.

Make sure your these boundaries are clearly stated in your thesis statement . Do you think it will be intuitive to the reader why you used these scope conditions in particular? If not, you may need to briefly explain why you're using them, either in the thesis statement itself or just before (or after) your thesis statement.

Evaluating Theses

Can readers take your thesis statement and test it like they would a hypothesis? Would they know what to look for in order to evaluate how well your argument is made? If so, it's probably a strong thesis.

A hypothesis is a statement that can be tested . For example, in the statement "wealth leads to democracy," we can imagine testing it by looking for wealthy countries that aren't democratic.

If readers can look at your thesis statement and come up new evidence to refute your claim, it might mean there's room for healthy debate on the topic--and it might mean there's a genuine weakness in your argument--but it also means you probably have a clearly written thesis statement!

A really common thesis-related problem for students is that readers don't know how to evaluate whether the argument is right or wrong . This idea of being able to test arguments against new evidence is what makes political science "scientific."

Additional Tips

Be direct, and own your answer. Don’t say, “The purpose of my paper is to show that economic development causes democracy.” Say, “Economic development causes democracy, because…”

But it is OK to use the first-person voice in political science! (Example: "Wealth is a necessary condition for democracy. I show this by examining all countries with an average GDP above $6,000 per year")

Make it clear where your thesis statement is. You don’t have to put the thesis statement at the end of a short, first paragraph...but this is common, because it keeps you from writing too much/too little introduction, and it’s often where your reader will look first (because it is so common!)

Avoid the word “prove,” which implies definitive proof (which is rarely possible in social sciences)

Avoid overly stylized language in your thesis statement, and keep it as clear, specific, and unambiguous as possible.

It’s ok to argue that sometimes things work one way, and sometimes another. For example, “wealthy countries are usually democratic, but sometimes they aren’t.” However, it’s much stronger to try and make this difference part of your argument---”Wealthy countries are usually democratic because [reason], but oil-rich countries are an exception because [reason].”

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Political essay topics

Here are some basic topics for your political essay. Loads of students go for writing a political ideology essay.

Broader topics, on the other hand, cover connections between politics and other institutions like the church, religion, history, philosophy, etc.

When and how did the politics originate?
The connection between politics and religion.
Comparison of electoral systems in the world.
The most influential political figure of the XX century.
The political decision that has changed your country at most.
What is better for the world, globalization or nationalism?
Democracy: pros and cons.
Correlation between morality and power.
Terrorism as a political instrument.
Totalitarianism: pros and cons.
The environmental question in the politics of your country.
The impact of international relations on your country in the last ten years.
Change in politics at wartime.
The philosophy of politics.
Pros and cons of the political system in your country.

Political socialization essay

Usually, socialization topics cover various aspects of society and life. These topics can be connected with peoples or particular groups of people regarding the political context.

You may try writing a political cartoon essay, too. If you’re a fan.

Psychology of politics.
Are civil wars a failure of national politicians?
Which ways of reducing corruption in your country do you know?
What makes lots of people around the whole world think politics is immoral?
Does gender discrimination affect politics in your country?
How do you see the ideal political system?
How do cultural norms influence politics in different countries?
Should social movements have an impact on politics?
Connections between politics and the media.
Political scandals: pros and cons.
Are strikes and protests an efficient method of influencing the work of government?
How should government regulate privacy and internet safety?
Your position towards the death penalty.
Do people in your country have enough civil rights?
Advantages and disadvantages of legalizing drugs.

Political science essay topics

As those topics below are scientific, they most surely would demand reading a decent amount of literature about political history and its development.

Here students usually go for political systems thematic essays, yet we’ll try to offer something more interesting.

It can be a daunting assignment, but if you enjoy studying history and being super accurate that’s exactly what you’re looking for!

Description of democratization processes.
Development of politics in your country.
Analysis of civil wars phenomenon.
Nature of political conflicts.
The system of political parties in your country.
History of international relations.
Influence of non-state actors on the international arena.
Analysis of modern international relations.
The concept of power balance.
Modern conflict science.
Collisions in international law.
Ancient / Asian / Islamic / Christian political thought.
State and local government in your country.
The founding of the political system in your country.
The foreign policy of your country.

Political argumentative essay topics

Argumentative topics are fascinating, right? If you pick one, you’ll inevitably begin a fierce discussion about it.

Usually, there are two options available: for or against, yes or no, one side or the other.

If you have strong beliefs about any political topic, you should give it a try. That’s for sure. A political corruption essay would be a good start, but there is no reason to avoid searching for other options…

Do you think a war is always a political decision?
Should a politician be cruel or merciful?
Is your country headed in the right direction?
What do you regard as a more important thing: people’s privacy or national security?
Presidential republics or parliamentary republics?
What is more effective nowadays, war or diplomacy?
Can we completely overcome corruption?
Do revolutions cause more good or harm?
Are nuclear weapons a crucial need for countries in the XXI century?
Should America build the wall?

Political persuasive essay topics

Do you consider yourself to be a creative person? Do you enjoy dreaming and breaking the existing frames society lives in? If yes, then the persuasive topic is what you need.

There can be no right or wrong point of view in such questions. Diverse opinions, that’s what it would be called more likely. The most popular type among students is a political party essay.

Have your own special vision on it? Cool! Write it down.

Want something else? Try these out!

Do you believe in your country’s democracy?
If you had the opportunity, which law would you add to your country’s legislation?
Tell about the most controversial political figure of your state and your attitude towards him/her.
Suggest ways of coping with corruption.
How do you see the future of politics?
Which political party in your country do you support and why?
Which political change or situation stroke you most during the last year?
Imagine creating your political party. What will it be like?
What is the most winning international rapport your country maintains?
Tell me how would you build your own state.

On balance…

I hope you’re full of fresh thoughts even if you didn’t choose any of the topics above.

Actually, politics is so multifaceted and diverse that you will definitely find something acceptable.

Finally, yet importantly, if you would consider the issue attractive, try writing an essay on political correctness. Why not?..

Do politics seem to be way too boring? We have trained professionals here, who strive to write a top-notch essay for you! Order it now and enjoy your free time…

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128 Federalism Essay Topics & Examples

Need to write a federalism essay? Looking for good federalism topics and samples for inspiration? This article is a great place to start!

⭐ Federalism Essay Prompts: Federalism in the United States

🏆 best federalism topics & essay examples, 🎓 good research topics about federalism, 🔍 federalism essay topics: simple & easy, 💡 most interesting federalism topics to write about, ❓ federalism essay questions.

What is federalism? Essay writing always starts with research, and we can help you with it. In short, federalism is a mode of government that combines general and regional governments. Your argumentative federalism essay can focus on federalism’s importance. Or, you can show your understanding of a unique system of governance in the United States.

In this article, you will find 74 excellent federalism essay topics and research ideas. You can also read our samples and use our free topic generator !

With its extensive territory and large population, the US required a robust government to sustain its infrastructure and grow into the global superpower it is today. However, its unique circumstances at the time of the formation made methods that were standard at the time inapplicable, forcing the Founding Fathers to innovate.

As a result, even two hundred years later, each state retains a considerable degree of independence. Your essay can cover any of the many different topics of federalism and its theoretical and practical applications:

You can center your essay on the conflicting ideas of Aristotelian happiness and utilitarianism, with the Republican and Democratic parties representing the options, respectively. The purpose of a country is to make sure that its citizens are as happy and comfortable as they can be. However, the task becomes complicated when the question of what happiness means is taken into consideration.
The emergence of the United States as a federation is a great federalism essay topic that can be explained by the circumstances of the nation’s formation. After fighting off the British in the Revolutionary War, the territory that would become the United States remained a loose alliance of small states, which can be considered a confederation. However, the system was ultimately non-viable, and the Founding Fathers had to create a more centralized country by creating and ratifying the Constitution.
Alternatively, you can focus on the role if Constitution and its history. At first, many states formed anti-federalist movements and opposed the initiative, but eventually, they agreed to it after their concerns were addressed in the Bill of Rights. The Constitution has been amended many times, but its core has remained unchanged. The United States is still a federation, and its states can adopt many critical laws without requiring the approval of the central government.
Discuss the idea of federalism in other countries that do not currently use it, providing examples. How much do the United States’ unique circumstances contribute to its ability to maintain a federation?
Talk about examples of other federations that currently exist or have existed in the past. Some of their models differ considerably from that used in the United States.
Discuss the idea of confederations and the reason why few to no countries can be classified as one despite their titles.

Find more ideas and excellent federalism essay samples below!

Federalism Implications for Medicaid in California An example used to compare and contrast the two metaphors is the system of Medicaid as controlled by the federal government and by the state government.
Federalism in United States Federalism is therefore defined as a coordination of the regime in which control and the influence of power is partitioned with an attempt to distribute it in the central government and the constituent supporting units.
Federalist Paper No. 51 He states that all the different arms of the government, as per the constitution, should be independent of one another though they should work in the direction of achieving the same constitutional goals it was […]
The United States Federalism and Political Culture Having established the central values of the United States’ political culture, it is worth discussing how some of them align with the concepts of federalism and anti-federalism. Therefore, it can be concluded that federalism is […]
“American Federalism” Article by Derthick This article considers the issue of the effective distribution of powers between the central and federal administrations. Thus, it shows the division of powers between the national and federal administrations in 1965-1980 and the current […]
Healthcare Regulations and Federalism’s Impact Although the ACA established the regulations for getting the coverage on federal levels, the government had to allow local policy-making due to the high autonomy of many regions.
The Account of the Pros and Cons of Federalism To conclude, federalism and devolution are rather efficient forms of the state government provided they are properly implemented in the country.
The Federalist Papers to Understand the United States Constitution The purpose of the federalist papers was to convince the people of New York to ratify the proposed constitution because most of the other states had already done so.
The Impact of Fiscal Federalism on Financial Operations The ADA requirements influenced the fiscal and budgetary operations of American College Health Association in terms of enforcement of employment rights and observing the rights of employers and students with disabilities.
Cooperative Federalism in the USA A vivid example of the implementation of the concept of dual federalism is the United States of America in the form in which they were initially formed.
American Federalism: Why It Is Good for the Nation? In conclusion, it is necessary to note that historical, political, and cultural peculiarities of the United States make federalism the most appropriate type of governance for the country.
The Major Eras of American Federalism The second category consists of the powers, which are “not delegated to [the national government of] the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the states” and are referred to as the […]
Fiscal Federalism: The Performance of Third-Party Implementers In the article ‘Public Performance and Management Review,’ the research question is “what can states do to maximize the performance of third-party implementers in the context of fiscal federalism?” The theory included a review of […]
10th Amendment & Federalism The 10th Amendment reads “The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited to it by the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people”.
The Constitutional Debate About Government and Federalism The government provided for by this document was weak and this necessitated drafting of the American constitution after Shays Rebellion in the spring of 1787. There have been major changes in the media and technology […]
The Current State of Federalism in the 21st Century The outcome of the civil war of the 60-is of the XIX century was the doctrine of eternal union, recognizing the U.S.as a single state, created by the will of the entire American people, excluding […]
Federalism Advantages and Disadvantages This paper discusses the advantages and disadvantages of a federal system of government. A federal government can either be centralized where the central government has broad powers compared to state or provincial powers, or a […]
Constitutionalism and Federalism in State Politics The Constitution highlighted the fundamentals of American federalism and testified the domination of the centralization. As it can be view, the problem of centralization and decentralization was of great concern in the course of the […]
Federalism and Medical Marijuana Needless to say, United States faced political and social challenges as well, and the disputes over federalism and over the legal use of marijuana in medicine are still the most burning and controversial issues in […]
Federalism and Gun Control in the United States 2 Each type of government possesses a set of duties and powers that it can exercise in the region, and the relationship between the levels is established in the Constitution.
Federalism: Policy Issues and Recommended Changes The concept of federalism is a well-known political trend, and the emphasis on its promotion is the practice that leaders of many states adhere to and develop.
Federalism of the United States The end result showed that the federal government was using publicly owned land, which in the end, belonged to all citizens of the United States, thus the local state government had to make sure the […]
Federalism and Government Styles in the United States It is because the individual at the top is held accountable by the leaders of the local authorities. Top on the list is the fact that the division of power between the central government and […]
Presidential Power in Hamilton’s Federalist No. 70 The analogy presented in the Federalist paper number seventy formed the basis of the present-day powerful executive in the United States.
Judicial Branch in Hamilton’s Federalist Papers In this context, the purpose of the judicial branch should not be misunderstood and viewed with reference to the purposes of the executive and legislative branches.
Aristocracy Assailed: The Ideology of Backcountry Anti-Federalism The author examines the views of the consensus historians and the attitudes of the anti-federalists towards the idea of American democracy.
Contemporary American Federalism Dual federalism is a system characterized by a national government that only governs by the rules that have been laid out in the constitution, national and state governments that are supreme in their allocated spheres […]
The Aggranoff’s Version of Federalist No. 44 Provision of the relevant leadership and administrative is by implementing policies and procedures that are standard in relation with what the nation anticipates. Additionally, evaluation of citizens’ performance in the work field and confirming whether […]
Significance of Anti-Federalist Papers Therefore, it is important to note that the anti-federalist paper served as an alternative voice by helping to pinpoint spheres that needed to be rectified to ensure that the constitution that was in the process […]
No Child Left behind Act: Federalism Concept Based on the three branches of a federal government, the legislative branch is bestowed with the responsibility of making the law.
Federalism and Policy Formulation This should be made with regard to views of the stakeholders since every federal government’s view must be represented in formulating the policies.
Current Issue in Federalism This has triggered the debate to shift from the state courts and legislatures to the federal courts with the interest groups looking for the best platform to present their case.
Federalism and separation of powers In the American constitution, specific powers were bestowed upon the national government and in the tenth amendment of 1791, it stated “the powers not delegated to the United States by the constitution, nor prohibited by […]
The Bill of Rights and the Anti-Federalist Concerns The Effects of the Bill of Rights Due to these facts and the essence of the Bill of Rights, it can be said that the efforts of the Anti-Federalists were not in vain.
Costs and Benefits of Federalism Conflicts between the state and national government in the running of the United States is one of the major costs of federalism. Federalism leads to the formation of small political units that help in the […]
Federalism in the United States The power assignments of the national government comprises of both implied and expressed powers. The Implied powers permit the central government to come up with decisions, which are not part of the expressed powers.
Federalism System, Its Advantages and Disadvantages The system causes government to have control of itself because of great rivalry of power between the state and the nation.
Federalist Paper Number 10 It is one of the most influential papers and it talks about faction and the role of government in regulating it as well as liberty. According to him, legislation should be put in place to […]
The Case for a Federalism Amendment The main agenda here is the evenness or equality on how the powers are shared between the federal government and the states governments without interfering with the rights of their people. For instance, the states […]
Modern American Federalism Development and evolution of democracy over the centuries has been focusing on devolution of central powers of government to increase independence of the local states.
The Evolution of American Federalism Madison alone wrote over 20 articles on the subject and helped in the development and ratification of the US constitution and the 39th article as well as Federalist 51 is regarded as the most indicative […]
An Overview of the Change of Federalism and the Great Depression
The Implications of Elections for Federalism in Iraq: Toward a Five-Region Model
A Look at Power Shifts in Intergovernmental Relations as a Result of Fiscal Federalism
The Major Role Federalism Has Played in Our Government
Understanding the Political Ideology of Federalism and the Role of the Federal Government
An Initial Evaluation of Revenue-Sharing Arrangements in the New South African Fiscal Federalism
A Comparison of Federalism and Anti-Federalism and Their Arguments
Using Benefit-Cost Criteria for Settling Federalism Disputes: An Application to Food Safety Regulation
Adjusting To Economic Growth In Toronto Amalgamation And Federalism
Why Is Federalism Is The Best Option For The Philippines
Advantages And Disadvantages Of American Federalism
An Analysis of the Essential Principles of Federalism in the United States Government
An Analysis of the Three Examples of How Federalism Which Evolved From Its Origins To the American Political System
The Political Economy of Immigration Enforcement: Conflict and Cooperation under Federalism
A Fiscal Federalism Analysis of Debt Policies by Sovereign Regional Governments
An Evaluation of Federalism and the Civil War in America
What Is Federalism And How Does It Relate To State Governments And Other Forms Of Governance
Beyond National Standards: Reconciling Tension between Federalism and the Welfare State
An International Multi-Level System of Competition Laws: Federalism in Antitrust
Understanding Federalism Based on the Section: Picket-Fence Federalism
The Possible Impact of Federalism in the Government of America
The Tragedy of the Commons or the Curse of Federalism
A Research on American History: Federalism in the United States
An Overview of the Power Shift in Intergovernmental Relations as a Result of Fiscal Federalism
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160 Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Students in 2024

April 3, 2024

The skill of writing an excellent argumentative essay is a crucial one for every high school or college student to master. In sum, argumentative essays teach students how to organize their thoughts logically and present them in a convincing way. This skill is helpful not only for those pursuing degrees in law , international relations , or public policy , but for any student who wishes to develop their critical thinking faculties. In this article, we’ll cover what makes a good argument essay and offer several argumentative essay topics for high school and college students. Let’s begin!

What is an Argumentative Essay?

An argumentative essay is an essay that uses research to present a reasoned argument on a particular subject . As with the persuasive essay , the purpose of an argumentative essay is to sway the reader to the writer’s position. However, a strong persuasive essay makes its point through diligent research and emotion while a strong argumentative essay should be based solely on facts, not feelings.

Moreover, each fact should be supported by clear evidence from credible sources . Furthermore, a good argumentative essay will have an easy-to-follow structure. When organizing your argumentative essay, use this format as a guide:

Introduction
Supporting body paragraphs
Paragraph(s) addressing common counterarguments

Argumentative Essay Format

In the introduction , the writer presents their position and thesis statement —a sentence that summarizes the paper’s main points. The body paragraphs then draw upon supporting evidence to back up this initial statement, with each paragraph focusing on its own point. The length of your paper will determine the amount of examples you need. In general, you’ll likely need at least two to three. Additionally, your examples should be as detailed as possible, citing specific research, case studies, statistics, or anecdotes.

In the counterargument paragraph , the writer acknowledges and refutes opposing viewpoints. Finally, in the conclusion , the writer restates the main argument made in the thesis statement and summarizes the points of the essay. Additionally, the conclusion may offer a final proposal to persuade the reader of the essay’s position.

How to Write an Effective Argumentative Essay, Step by Step

Choose your topic. Use the list below to help you pick a topic. Ideally, a good argumentative essay topic will be meaningful to you—writing is always stronger when you are interested in the subject matter. In addition, the topic should be complex with plenty of “pro” and “con” arguments. Avoid choosing a topic that is either widely accepted as fact or too narrow. For example, “Is the earth round?” would not be a solid choice.
Research. Use the library, the web, and any other resources to gather information about your argumentative essay topic. Research widely but smartly. As you go, take organized notes, marking the source of every quote and where it may fit in the scheme of your larger essay. Moreover, remember to look for (and research) possible counterarguments.
Outline . Using the argument essay format above, create an outline for your essay. Then, brainstorm a thesis statement covering your argument’s main points, and begin to put your examples in order, focusing on logical flow. It’s often best to place your strongest example last.
Write . Draw on your research and outline to create a first draft. Remember, your first draft doesn’t need to be perfect. (As Voltaire says, “Perfect is the enemy of good.”) Accordingly, just focus on getting the words down on paper.
Does my thesis statement need to be adjusted?
Which examples feel strongest? Weakest?
Do the transitions flow smoothly?
Do I have a strong opening paragraph?
Does the conclusion reinforce my argument?

Tips for Revising an Argument Essay

Evaluating your own work can be difficult, so you might consider the following strategies:

Read your work aloud to yourself.
Record yourself reading your paper, and listen to the recording.
Reverse outline your paper. Firstly, next to each paragraph, write a short summary of that paragraph’s main points/idea. Then, read through your reverse outline. Does it have a logical flow? If not, where should you adjust?
Print out your paper and cut it into paragraphs. What happens when you rearrange the paragraphs?

Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle School, High School, and College Students

Family argumentative essay topics.

Should the government provide financial incentives for families to have children to address the declining birth rate?
Should we require parents to provide their children with a certain level of nutrition and physical activity to prevent childhood obesity?
Should parents implement limits on how much time their children spend playing video games?
Should cell phones be banned from family/holiday gatherings?
Should we hold parents legally responsible for their children’s actions?
Should children have the right to sue their parents for neglect?
Should parents have the right to choose their child’s religion?
Are spanking and other forms of physical punishment an effective method of discipline?
Should courts allow children to choose where they live in cases of divorce?
Should parents have the right to monitor teens’ activity on social media?
Should parents control their child’s medical treatment, even if it goes against the child’s wishes?
Should parents be allowed to post pictures of their children on social media without their consent?
Should fathers have a legal say in whether their partners do or do not receive an abortion?
Can television have positive developmental benefits on children?
Should the driving age be raised to prevent teen car accidents?
Should adult children be legally required to care for their aging parents?

Education Argument Essay Topics

Should schools ban the use of technology like ChatGPT?
Are zoos unethical, or necessary for conservation and education?
To what degree should we hold parents responsible in the event of a school shooting?
Should schools offer students a set number of mental health days?
Should school science curriculums offer a course on combating climate change?
Should public libraries be allowed to ban certain books? If so, what types?
What role, if any, should prayer play in public schools?
Should schools push to abolish homework?
Are gifted and talented programs in schools more harmful than beneficial due to their exclusionary nature?
Should universities do away with Greek life?
Should schools remove artwork, such as murals, that some perceive as offensive?
Should the government grant parents the right to choose alternative education options for their children and use taxpayer funds to support these options?
Is homeschooling better than traditional schooling for children’s academic and social development?
Should we require schools to teach sex education to reduce teen pregnancy rates?
Should we require schools to provide sex education that includes information about both homosexual and heterosexual relationships?
Should colleges use affirmative action and other race-conscious policies to address diversity on campus?
Should public schools remove the line “under God” from the Pledge of Allegiance?
Should college admissions officers be allowed to look at students’ social media accounts?
Should schools abolish their dress codes, many of which unfairly target girls, LGBTQ students, and students of color?
Should schools be required to stock free period products in bathrooms?
Should legacy students receive preferential treatment during the college admissions process?
Are school “voluntourism” trips ethical?

Government Argumentative Essay Topics

Should the U.S. decriminalize prostitution?
Should the U.S. issue migration visas to all eligible applicants?
Should the federal government cancel all student loan debt?
Should we lower the minimum voting age? If so, to what?
Should the federal government abolish all laws penalizing drug production and use?
Should the U.S. use its military power to deter a Chinese invasion of Taiwan?
Should the U.S. supply Ukraine with further military intelligence and supplies?
Should the North and South of the U.S. split up into two regions?
Should Americans hold up nationalism as a critical value?
Should we permit Supreme Court justices to hold their positions indefinitely?
Should Supreme Court justices be democratically elected?
Is the Electoral College still a productive approach to electing the U.S. president?
Should the U.S. implement a national firearm registry?
Is it ethical for countries like China and Israel to mandate compulsory military service for all citizens?
Should the U.S. government implement a ranked-choice voting system?
Should institutions that benefited from slavery be required to provide reparations?
Based on the 1619 project, should history classes change how they teach about the founding of the U.S.?
Should term limits be imposed on Senators and Representatives? If so, how long?
Should women be allowed into special forces units?
Should the federal government implement stronger, universal firearm licensing laws?
Do public sex offender registries help prevent future sex crimes?
Should the government be allowed to regulate family size?
Should all adults legally be considered mandated reporters?
Should the government fund public universities to make higher education more accessible to low-income students?
Should the government fund universal preschool to improve children’s readiness for kindergarten?

Health/Bioethics Argumentative Essay Topics

Should the U.S. government offer its own healthcare plan?
In the case of highly infectious pandemics, should we focus on individual freedoms or public safety when implementing policies to control the spread?
Should we legally require parents to vaccinate their children to protect public health?
Is it ethical for parents to use genetic engineering to create “designer babies” with specific physical and intellectual traits?
Should the government fund research on embryonic stem cells for medical treatments?
Should the government legalize assisted suicide for terminally ill patients?
Should organ donation be mandatory?
Is cloning animals ethical?
Should cancer screenings start earlier? If so, what age?
Is surrogacy ethical?
Should birth control require a prescription?
Should minors have access to emergency contraception?
Should hospitals be for-profit or nonprofit institutions?

Good Argumentative Essay Topics — Continued

Social media argumentative essay topics.

Should the federal government increase its efforts to minimize the negative impact of social media?
Do social media and smartphones strengthen one’s relationships?
Should antitrust regulators take action to limit the size of big tech companies?
Should social media platforms ban political advertisements?
Should the federal government hold social media companies accountable for instances of hate speech discovered on their platforms?
Do apps such as TikTok and Instagram ultimately worsen the mental well-being of teenagers?
Should governments oversee how social media platforms manage their users’ data?
Should social media platforms like Facebook enforce a minimum age requirement for users?
Should social media companies be held responsible for cases of cyberbullying?
Should the United States ban TikTok?
Is social media harmful to children?
Should employers screen applicants’ social media accounts during the hiring process?

Religion Argument Essay Topics

Should religious institutions be tax-exempt?
Should religious symbols such as the hijab or crucifix be allowed in public spaces?
Should religious freedoms be protected, even when they conflict with secular laws?
Should the government regulate religious practices?
Should we allow churches to engage in political activities?
Religion: a force for good or evil in the world?
Should the government provide funding for religious schools?
Is it ethical for healthcare providers to deny abortions based on religious beliefs?
Should religious organizations be allowed to discriminate in their hiring practices?
Should we allow people to opt out of medical treatments based on their religious beliefs?
Should the U.S. government hold religious organizations accountable for cases of sexual abuse within their community?
Should religious beliefs be exempt from anti-discrimination laws?
Should religious individuals be allowed to refuse services to others based on their beliefs or lifestyles? (As in this famous case .)
Should the US ban religion-based federal holidays?
Should public schools be allowed to teach children about religious holidays?

Science Argument Essay Topics

Would the world be safer if we eliminated nuclear weapons?
Should scientists bring back extinct animals? If so, which ones?
Should we hold companies fiscally responsible for their carbon footprint?
Should we ban pesticides in favor of organic farming methods?
Should the federal government ban all fossil fuels, despite the potential economic impact on specific industries and communities?
What renewable energy source should the U.S. invest more money in?
Should the FDA outlaw GMOs?
Should we worry about artificial intelligence surpassing human intelligence?
Should the alternative medicine industry be more stringently regulated?
Is colonizing Mars a viable option?
Is the animal testing worth the potential to save human lives?

Sports Argument Essay Topics

Should colleges compensate student-athletes?
How should sports teams and leagues address the gender pay gap?
Should youth sports teams do away with scorekeeping?
Should we ban aggressive contact sports like boxing and MMA?
Should professional sports associations mandate that athletes stand during the national anthem?
Should high schools require their student-athletes to maintain a certain GPA?
Should transgender athletes compete in sports according to their gender identity?
Should schools ban football due to the inherent danger it poses to players?
Should performance-enhancing drugs be allowed in sports?
Do participation trophies foster entitlement and unrealistic expectations?
Should sports teams be divided by gender?
Should professional athletes be allowed to compete in the Olympics?
Should women be allowed on NFL teams?

Technology Argumentative Essay Topics

Should sites like DALL-E compensate the artists whose work it was trained on?
Should the federal government make human exploration of space a more significant priority?
Is it ethical for the government to use surveillance technology to monitor citizens?
Should websites require proof of age from their users? If so, what age?
Should we consider A.I.-generated images and text pieces of art?
Does the use of facial recognition technology violate individuals’ privacy?
Is online learning as effective as in-person learning?
Does computing harm the environment?
Should buying, sharing, and selling collected personal data be illegal?
Are electric cars really better for the environment?
Should car companies be held responsible for self-driving car accidents?
Should private jets be banned?
Do violent video games contribute to real-life violence?

Business Argument Essay Topics

Should the U.S. government phase out the use of paper money in favor of a fully digital currency system?
Should the federal government abolish its patent and copyright laws?
Should we replace the Federal Reserve with free-market institutions?
Is free-market ideology responsible for the U.S. economy’s poor performance over the past decade?
Will cryptocurrencies overtake natural resources like gold and silver?
Is capitalism the best economic system? What system would be better?
Should the U.S. government enact a universal basic income?
Should we require companies to provide paid parental leave to their employees?
Should the government raise the minimum wage? If so, to what?
Should antitrust regulators break up large companies to promote competition?
Is it ethical for companies to prioritize profits over social responsibility?
Should gig-economy workers like Uber and Lyft drivers be considered employees or independent contractors?
Should the federal government regulate the gig economy to ensure fair treatment of workers?
Should the government require companies to disclose the environmental impact of their products?
Should companies be allowed to fire employees based on political views or activities?
Should tipping practices be phased out?
Should employees who choose not to have children be given the same amount of paid leave as parents?
Should MLMs (multi-level marketing companies) be illegal?
Should employers be allowed to factor tattoos and personal appearance into hiring decisions?

In Conclusion – Argument Essay Topics

Using the tips above, you can effectively structure and pen a compelling argumentative essay that will wow your instructor and classmates. Remember to craft a thesis statement that offers readers a roadmap through your essay, draw on your sources wisely to back up any claims, and read through your paper several times before it’s due to catch any last-minute proofreading errors. With time, diligence, and patience, your essay will be the most outstanding assignment you’ve ever turned in…until the next one rolls around.

Looking for more fresh and engaging topics for use in the classroom? You might consider checking out the following:

125 Good Debate Topics for High School Students
150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics
7 Best Places to Study
Guide to the IB Extended Essay
How to Write the AP Lang Rhetorical Analysis Essay
AP Lit Reading List
How to Write the AP Lang Synthesis Essay
49 Most Interesting Biology Research Topics
High School Success

Lauren Green

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

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Student Opinion

Over 1,000 Writing Prompts for Students

Compiled by Michael Gonchar

April 12, 2018

Note: We have 300 new argumentative writing prompts to add to this list.

Of all the resources we publish on The Learning Network, perhaps it’s our vast collection of writing prompts that is our most widely used resource for teaching and learning with The Times.

We’ve published iterations of this post in the past — 200 , 401 and even 650 prompts — but never before have we gathered all our prompts, for both personal and argument writing, into one categorized list.

Admittedly, the list is huge. In fact, there are 1,219 questions below on everything from video games and fashion to smartphones and parenting, and each prompt links to a Times article as well as to additional subquestions that can encourage deeper thinking.

To help you navigate this page, here’s an index of topics:

Technology (1-74): Social Media • Smartphones • Internet & Tech Arts & Entertainment (75-248): Music • Television • Video Games • Movies & Theater • Books & Reading • Writing • The Arts • Language & Speech School & Career (249-449): School • Learning & Studying • Education Tech • Teachers & Grading • School Rules & Student Life • College • Work & Careers Identity & Family (450-828): Parenting • Family • Childhood Memories • Growing Up • Overcoming Adversity • Your Personality • Religion & Morality • Role Models • Gender • Race & Ethnicity • Neighborhood & Home • Money & Social Class • What If... Social Life & Leisure Time (829-1,059): Friendship • Dating & Sex • Looks & Fashion • Food • Sports & Games • Travel • Holidays & Seasons • Shopping & Cars Science & Health (1,060-1,140): Science & Environment • Animals & Pets • Exercise & Health Civics & History (1,141-1,219): Guns & the Justice System • Government Policy • History & News

So dive into the hundreds of writing prompts below — and let us know in the comments how you might use them in your classroom.

Social Media

1. Is Social Media Making Us More Narcissistic? 2. Are You the Same Person on Social Media as You Are in Real Life? 3. How Young Is Too Young to Use Social Media? 4. What Advice Do You Have for Younger Kids About Navigating Social Media? 5. How Do You Use Facebook? 6. What Is Your Facebook Persona? 7. How Real Are You on Social Media? 8. What Memorable Experiences Have You Had on Facebook? 9. Does Facebook Ever Make You Feel Bad? 10. Does Facebook Need a ‘Dislike’ Button? 11. Has Facebook Lost Its Edge? 12. Would You Consider Deleting Your Facebook Account? 13. Would You Quit Social Media? 14. Do You Have ‘Instagram Envy’? 15. Who Is Your Favorite Social Media Star? 16. What’s So Great About YouTube? 17. What Has YouTube Taught You? 18. What Are Your Favorite Viral Videos? 19. What Are Your Favorite Internet Spoofs? 20. What Would You Teach the World in an Online Video? 21. Do You Ever Seek Advice on the Internet? 22. Would You Share an Embarrassing Story Online? 23. Do You Use Twitter? 24. Is Snapchat a Revolutionary Form of Social Media? 25. Why Do You Share Photos? 26. How Do You Archive Your Life? 27. What Ordinary Moments Would You Include in a Video About Your Life? 28. Are Digital Photographs Too Plentiful to Be Meaningful? 29. Do You Worry We Are Filming Too Much? 30. Have You Ever Posted, Emailed or Texted Something You Wish You Could Take Back? 31. Would You Want Your Photo or Video to Go Viral? 32. Do You Worry Colleges or Employers Might Read Your Social Media Posts Someday? 33. Will Social Media Help or Hurt Your College and Career Goals? 34. Should What You Say on Facebook Be Grounds for Getting Fired? 35. Are Anonymous Social Media Networks Dangerous? 36. Should People Be Allowed to Obscure Their Identities Online? 37. Are Parents Violating Their Children’s Privacy When They Share Photos and Videos of Them Online? 38. Would You Mind if Your Parents Blogged About You?

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American government essay topics

Problems with American Democracy
Foreign-Born American Can Become the President
The Current Relationship between the American Citizens and the United States Government
The Function of the Articles of Confederation
How politics originated in America
The 3 Branches of the American Government
Making of the New Government
American government: are they cruel or merciful?
Racial Segregation Of the US
An Accurate Assessment of the American Political System
Contributors to our Successful Government
The concept of power balance in the US government
Changes in the American Government
Three Branches of American Government
The United States presidents that Pleased the people most
Problems with the electoral college
President Trump and His Policies
What is the connection between the American government and the media
United States Government Welfare
Contentions between the American government and the citizens
Tension In California Politics
The Roots and Reform of American Government
Gay Marriage and the Government
Corruption in the US Government
How to reduce corruption in the US government
The Woman in the American Government
Electoral College Reform
Major Accomplishments of President Barack Obama
Federalist versus Antifederalists
What impact do social movements have on the American government?
The philosophy of politics
The Involvement of Government with the Daily Life of Americans
The Articles of Confederation
The First American President
Problems with the American constitution
How World War II Transformed American Government and Society
American Constitutional Law
Classical Conservatism vs Classical Liberalism
Historical Ideas That Influenced The American Government
The link between politics and religion
Direct Popular Vote vs Electoral College
How is terrorism affecting the US government?
How international relations have impacted the US in the last ten years
Should American democracy grant more power to the people
The American Republic Government vs Aristotelian Government
Why the American government should regulate internet safety
Privacy and the American Government
American Federalism and the New Deal
Foundations of American Government
How did the fourteenth amendment affect civil liberties in the US after it was passed at the end of the civil war?
Communist Ideas in American Government
What the US citizens think about the government
The Need for Diversity in American Government
Privacy: The American People vs the Government
Development of the American Constitution
Electing Supreme Court Justices
The pros and cons of democracy
The top priorities of the US government
Foundations of the US Government
Current Top Issues of the United States National Government
The Reaction of American Government to September 11
Bill and Bill: The Government and the American People
Do Americans enjoy enough civil rights?
Ideologies Of The American Government
Social Security: Impacts of Its Disappearance
The History of the American Federal Government
Is it the role of the government to prevent gambling addictions, and should they ban lotteries?
Why presidents deserve the privilege to serve for more than two terms if the citizens want them
The US government and Native American
What political decision has changed America the most
American Diets: Why Government Should Not Control It
Illustration of the Founding Principles of America
Checks and Balances System in America
How is the threat of terrorism affecting the American government?
Roosevelt as an American Leader
Why a female president is ideal for the US

Get Help from the Experts with your American Government Essay Topics Paper

There are a lot of interesting topics to consider when writing an essay on the American Government. Is there one that interests you the most? The list we’ve provided has some suggestions for where to start your research, but if none of them sounds like they would be suitable for what you want in your paper, don’t worry! You can also contact us and get help from professional writers with your paper today. Place your order now and see how great it feels not having homework at home tonight!

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122 american government research paper topics for you.

American government research paper topics lie under the political science category in schools, universities, and colleges. Many educators ask learners to write about these topics when pursuing political studies.

But, writing about these ideas is not an easy task due to the dynamic nature of politics. Ideally, political tides keep shifting every day. However, students should write about fresh and original ideas to impress their educators and earn top grades.

American Government Research Paper Outline

After picking a topic and researching it, a learner should write a paper with the following sections.

Introduction: This section should introduce your topic to the readers and briefly tell the readers what you’ll be discussing in the paper. It should also have your thesis statement or problem statement.
Literature review: Here, your paper should highlight relevant studies relating to your topics. Include information about past studies that you have used to research your title.
Methodology: This section should tell readers about your research methods and how you analyzed information about your topic.
Findings: Tell readers about your research findings in this section. You can describe and evaluate the results.
Conclusion: Summarize everything and tell the audience how your findings support your thesis statement. Also, recommend or suggest further studies on the topic if necessary.

Selecting interesting American government paper topics is perhaps, the essential thing when working on this assignment. That’s because you will spend a lot of time gathering and analyzing information. If you pick a dull topic, you won’t enjoy working on your paper. Here are exciting issues to consider when writing a piece about the American government.

Exciting American Government Topics

If the educator didn’t assign you topics for your American government essays, pick titles that you will find exciting to work with from the beginning to the end. Here are exciting ideas to consider for your papers.

Does the federal government have too much, enough, or the right power amount?
Effects of the 14th Amendment on the United States’ civil liberties
Why the Equal Rights Amendment failed
Direct democracy vs. representative democracy
Should the law extend democratic decision-making to the government, workplace, and school?
How New Jersey and Virginia plans led to the Great Compromise
What should the U.S. constitution change about the government?
States versus the federal government- Which deserve more power?
Which programs can compel more people to participate in local and presidential elections?
Is gerrymandering dangerous to presidential elections and voting?
A comparison of the United States’ political parties- What are their election policies?
Should the government require schools to secure a warrant for searching students’ properties?
Does the First Amendment provide the fundamental right?
Which branch in the federal government wields the most power?
How presidents have used the executive orders in the U.S. history
How many executive orders has the current President issued?
Should congress members vote by following the people’s will or their conscience?
Should the congress members have term limits?
A comparison of the House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate
Why do some people call the media the 4th branch of government?
How social media has strengthened political parties in the U.S.
What are the primary sources of funds for political campaigns in the U.S?

These are compelling topics that will captivate your professor or teacher to read your paper. Nevertheless, research your idea extensively to develop a winning essay.

Legislative Branch of Government Topics

Perhaps, you’re interested in a topic about the legislature. In that case, this category comprises topics you’ll find fascinating to work on from the beginning to the end.

The role of advocates, opponents, and experts in the rejection or passage of a bill
Why does the number of subcommittees and committees matter?
Describe the legislative process that the Senate follows
Why does the decisive vote by the Vice President matter to the Senate?
The 17th Amendment ratification in 1913
Why representatives should elect their house speaker
The essence of the 25th Amendment to the legislature and the house
How effective is the Senate in committee hearings and inquiries
Why the Congress should have powers to remove a seating President
Passing a bill- What is the origin of the two-third majority rule?
The importance of the Senate in approving presidential appointments
Why does the 25-year age limit matter when vying?
Why house representatives should sever for over two terms
The essence of the census in determining the representatives’ number
A critical evaluation of the Senate and House of Representatives
Is the American legislature an accurate reflection of women’s representation?
Is the United States Congress adequately constituted?

Consider these ideas and then explore them through research to develop informative papers. Aim to provide relevant and valuable information through your essay to impress the educator.

U.S. Government Research Paper Topics for College & University Students

Perhaps, you’re in college or university, and you need a topic for your research paper. In that case, consider the following titles for your essays.

How reliable are presidential election polls?
American government’s public relations and their essence in its success
Clinton and Bush war doctrines
What is the U.S. government’s stance on immigration?
Why the 2008 U.S. Presidential election was a biased female politician’s depiction in the mass media
How the constitution balances power between the government branches
How the U.S. government influence the American democracy
How the government’s bureaucratic processes influence modern America
How the U.S. government’s foreign policies affect the European politics
The government’s role in fighting against terrorism
How political scandals affect the U.S. government
How divisions in the U.S. government affect its functioning
Foreign policy by the U.S. government- Guns or words?
The U.S. government and church interconnections- How do they influence society morals?
The U.S. government policy on speech freedom in modern society
Should direct voting replace the Electoral College system?
The pros and cons of the U.S. government policy on marijuana legalization
The U.S. government censorship- Should citizens watch whatever they want?
An empiric study of money distribution by the U.S. government
What is the U.S. government’s policy on outsourcing?
Describe the U.S. government’s policies about the web
Does the U.S. government have a religious aspect?
What are the issues facing the Federal government in the U.S.?
How the U.S. government policies affect social inequality
The U.S. government’s main principles and their implementation during the XXI century

Some of the topics in this category require high-level research to produce quality papers. Nevertheless, you can write a good essay if you take the time to research your preferred idea.

Government Research Paper Topics about the Executive Arm

Maybe you’re interested in the executive arm of the U.S. government. In that case, explore these topics about this branch of the U.S. government.

Why the Department of Defense is the most significant arm of the U.S. government
Does the committee have the correct number of departments to meet the U.S. people’s needs?
Why is the cabinet comprised of the closest confidants of the President?
Is it right for the U.S. president to select the cabinet members alone?
Why the White House Chief of Staff has to be the closest adviser of the President?
Why do Vice Presidents have a unique approach to their role?
What is the national relevance of the President’s Oval Office?
Is it necessary for the First Family and the President to live in the White House?
Is the congressional delegation during the electoral vote a representation of the people’s will?
What is the meaning of the State of the Union Address for a President?
What are the President’s powers?
Explain how the federal government administers and enforces federal laws
Does the President have the ability to appoint independent national commissions heads?
How the Congress affects overwriting a President’s veto
Should the constitution allow the President unlimited powers to extend amnesties and pardons for federal crimes?
Advantages and disadvantages of the Affordable Care Act by President Obama

Most research paper topics in this category revolve around the cabinet, vice president, and President. Nevertheless, they can be the basis of good academic papers.

Politics Topics to Write about in High School

If looking for political topics for high school, this section has the best ideas for you.

Is it right or wrong for the U.S government to monitor the public?
Government incentives and globalization
Government aid and U.S. airways
What is the difference between a parliamentary government and a presidential government?
Should the U.S. government regulate the internet?
How religion affects the U.S. government
Business and government relations
Does the government control equality?
Influence of government policies on wealth and income distribution
Local and state government accounting
What is the role of government in the market economy?
Does the constitution give citizens obligations and duties to the U.S. government?
What are the principles of the United States government?
Does the U.S. government control the media?
Issues facing the U.S. federal government

These are exciting topics in American politics and the government for high school students. Nevertheless, learners should research their topics extensively to write quality papers.

Questions about American Government

Perhaps, you’re looking for questions you can answer in your paper about the American government. In that case, here are brilliant ideas to consider.

Between representative and direct democracy, which is the best option for Americans?
What can convince more people to participate in the U.S. election?
Between the federal and the state government, which is the most powerful and why?
Who funds political campaigns in the U.S.?
Is the media the fourth U.S. government branch?
Do Congress members follow their voters’ will?
How do the U.S. presidents use their executive privileges?
Why are presidential election polls unreliable?
Does the U.S. federal government have excess power?
What led to the failure of the Equal Rightnecessarynt in the Senate?
Why is the U.S First Amendment so important to Americans’ human rights?
Is reducing the federal budget deficit important?
Has the U.S. government contributed to citizens’ inequality?
How does religion affect the U.S. government and citizens?
What are the effects of the ruling party on the U.S. government?
What is the U.S. government’s role in the American economy?

These questions can be the basis of excellent American government research topics. Nevertheless, research your preferred idea to develop a winning paper.

Public Policy Research Paper Topics

Perhaps, you want to write about a topic that touches on the public interest. In that case, consider the ideas in this category.

Should the U.S. government legalize marijuana?
Should the U.S. government change the public healthcare policy?
Should the government ban alcohol commercials from television?
Should state governments tackle the high divorce rate?
Ways for the U.S. government to address the gun ownership issue?
Does the U.S. government infringe on the citizens’ privacy through public surveillance?
Should the U.S. government regulate university and college education fees?
How does the U.S. government benefit from the high number of people completing higher education?
Should the U.S. government require immigrants to learn the national language?
Should the U.S. government make vaccines compulsory?

Writing an American research paper can be fun if you pick the right topic. Therefore, take your time to identify the best issues to write about, and you will earn the top grades in your class.

Get Professional Paper Writing Help

If unable to write a paper on any of these topics, seek professional assistance from the best writers online. Our crew comprises skilled and experienced writers with a proven track record of providing fast and reliable services to students. Regardless of your topic’s complexity or the professor’s requirements, we can write a winning paper for you. Contact us now for a cheap but quality paper writing service!

AP United States Government and Politics

Learn all about the course and exam. Already enrolled? Join your class in My AP.

Not a Student?

Go to AP Central for resources for teachers, administrators, and coordinators.

About the Exam

The AP U.S. Government and Politics Exam will test your understanding of the political concepts covered in the course units, including your ability to analyze the foundational documents and to apply Supreme Court decisions you studied in the course to real-life scenarios.

Update: Roe v. Wade

Although the Supreme Court recently overturned Roe v. Wade , it remains required course content and is part of Topic 3.9, “Amendments: Due Process and the Right to Privacy” along with two additional cases, Griswold v. Connecticut (1965) and Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization (2022). Any of these cases can be the focus of AP Exam questions related to this topic, but none of them will be the focus of Free Response Question 3.

Tue, May 6, 2025

12 PM Local

AP U.S. Government and Politics Exam

This is the regularly scheduled date for the AP United States Government and Politics Exam.

Exam Components

Section i: multiple choice.

55 questions 1hr 20mins 50% of Score

The multiple-choice section includes individual, single questions as well as sets of questions. You’ll be asked to:

Describe, explain, and compare political concepts and processes
Apply Supreme Court decisions in real-life scenarios
Analyze data in graphs, charts, tables, maps, or infographics
Read and analyze foundational documents and other text-based and visual sources

Section II: Free Response

4 questions 1hr 40mins 50% of Score

In the free-response section, you’ll respond to four questions with written answers. The section includes:

1 concept application question: You’ll describe and explain the effects of a political institution, behavior, or process, and apply concepts in a new situation.
1 quantitative analysis question: You’ll analyze data in the form of a table, graph, map, or infographic to find patterns and trends and reach a conclusion.
The prompt specifies 1 required SCOTUS case, and you are asked to identify how that required case is related to the case given in the scenario.
1 argument essay:  You’ll write an evidence-based essay supporting a claim or thesis.

Exam Essentials

Exam preparation, ap classroom resources.

Once you join your AP class section online, you’ll be able to access AP Daily videos, any assignments from your teacher, and your assignment results in AP Classroom. Sign in to access them.

Go to AP Classroom

Free-Response Questions and Scoring Information

Go to the Exam Questions and Scoring Information section on the AP United States Government and Politics Exam page at AP Central to review the latest released free-response questions and scoring information.  

Past Exam Free-Response Questions and Scoring Information  

Go to AP Central to review free-response questions and scoring information from past AP United States Government and Politics exams. 

AP United States Government and Politics Course and Exam Description

This is the core document for the course. It clearly lays out the course content and describes the exam and the AP Program in general.

Services for Students with Disabilities

Students with documented disabilities may be eligible for accommodations for the through-course assessment and the end-of-course exam. If you’re using assistive technology and need help accessing the PDFs in this section in another format, contact Services for Students with Disabilities at 212-713-8333 or by email at [email protected] . For information about taking AP Exams, or other College Board assessments, with accommodations, visit the Services for Students with Disabilities website.

Credit and Placement

Search AP Credit Policies

Find colleges that grant credit and/or placement for AP Exam scores in this and other AP courses.

Additional Information

2023 Civics Essay Contest Prompts

2023 essay contest prompts.

Grades 3 - 8

The First Amendment protects freedom of speech. What happens when people are free to say anything they want in person or online? For example, yelling "fire" in a crowded room or posting hateful words on social media. What kind of free speech situations require a judge or police officer to get involved to keep the peace?

Grades 9 - 12

In 2021, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that a high school cheerleader could not be punished in school for using curse words on social media when commenting about not making the cheer team while she was off school grounds. Do you think students should be held to the same standard when exercising their First Amendment right to freedom of speech whether they’re on or off school property? Decide if there are circumstances where students should be punished by a court of law for what they say or write to maintain civility.

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College Essay Prompts: What Admissions Officers Are Really Looking For

EssayEdge > Blog > College Essay Prompts: What Admissions Officers Are Really Looking For

The college admissions process is a real source of stress for college applicants, and essay writing is one of its most challenging aspects. These prompts are more than just writing assignments. They are an opportunity to get a glimpse into a student’s personality, interests, and potential.

College admission essay prompts are quite numerous, however, choosing one to reveal one’s personality is challenging and vague. Even though it may be your first time writing this type of application, it needs to be done perfectly to get into college. For elite colleges, this essay is often the deciding factor for getting an interview.

Source: ResearchGate

Your college admission essay can make a big difference in whether you get accepted. The admissions committee looks closely at your personality, which they find important in their decision.

So what’s important to a good essay? What is your admissions committee looking for in it?

Table of Contents:

What are Essay Prompts for College Admission ?

An admissions essay is a 250 to 650-word long text in which you answer a specific question. Most universities and colleges require one main essay. However, schools may also ask for additional ones, such as “Why did you choose our university?” or “Describe a time when you overcame a challenge.” Some selective colleges may require up to four or five essays on a variety of topics.

College Admission Essay Prompts 2025

The overall college admission prompts for 2024-2025 remain unchanged:

Tell us about your unique characteristic: “Is there something in your life, like an experience, personal trait, hobby, or talent, that’s so important your application wouldn’t be complete without it? If so, share your story.”
The impact of hardship on your path: “Important lessons often come from difficult situations. Describe an instance when you encountered a difficulty, setback, or problem. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?”
Rethinking beliefs: “Recall a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted you to do so? What were the consequences of your rethinking?”
Actions for which you are grateful: “Share a situation when someone did something for you that struck you as kind or unexpected. How did that feeling of gratitude affect or motivate you?”
Personal growth and Insight: “Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that was the beginning of your personal growth and led to a new understanding of yourself or others.”
An exciting topic or idea: “Describe a topic, idea, or concept that fascinates you so much that you lose track of time while engaged in it. Why does it fascinate you? What sources or people do you turn to when you want to learn more?”
Essay on any topic: “Write an essay on any topic that interests you. It can be an essay you’ve already written, a response to another admission essay prompts for college , or a brand new paper of your choice.”

What does the admissions committee expect from you?

The committee wants to understand who you are as a person. It includes your values, beliefs, life priorities, and character. The application should show your uniqueness and what sets you apart from other applicants. Your life experiences, culture, background, and hobbies can play a key role in demonstrating your personality. It would seem that this is the end of it, but no. The essay requires you to address your experiences, culture, etc in some way, this information must have a purpose and opportunity to appear. What do we mean by that?

The admissions committee wants to see you can analyze your past experiences, draw conclusions, and learn from them. This helps you grow and develop, not stand still, and adapt to different situations. Reflection allows the student to better understand their strengths and weaknesses, as well as the aspects of life that motivate them and shape them as a person. This approach is important as colleges strive to accept students who are capable of not only learning but also contributing to the community.

Testing critical thinking is also quite important. Admission essay prompts that encourage candidates to analyze situations, problems, or solutions help reveal their ability to reason, consider different points of view, and formulate sound conclusions.

Here is a very short example of such an essay:

“In my sophomore year, I faced a belief that had long driven me: that perfect grades were the only path to success. When I failed a major math exam, it shook my world. I was overwhelmed with shame, convinced that I was a failure. However, this setback made me question the idea that academic excellence was the sole measure of my worth.

As I reflected, I realized my obsession with grades had drained the joy from learning. I decided to shift my focus—exploring subjects that genuinely interested me and engaging in activities outside of academics. This change not only rekindled my passion for learning but also taught me the importance of balance and self-compassion.

This experience has reshaped my understanding of success, which I now see as a blend of personal well-being, relationships, and growth, rather than just academic achievements.”

College Essay Admission Prompts : What to Focus On?

Writing such an essay is still difficult because you should keep many things in your mind simultaneously to succeed. Don’t forget that the essay should also include:

Clarity of goals and ambitions

It is important to show that you have specific academic and career goals. The committee wants to see how the college and program you have chosen will help you achieve these goals. It is a realization of why you have chosen this particular academic path and how it fits into your future.

Academic Motivation and Interests

Your passion for learning and desire to learn should also be evident. The Board wants to see that you are genuinely passionate about your chosen subject and are willing to learn more and more. Tell us how you have shown interest in a subject outside the school and program and participated in projects, research, or other academic activities.

Empathy and Social Responsibility

It is important to show your ability to interact with others, work in a team, and show empathy. Colleges are looking for students who can contribute positively to the campus community, treat others with respect, and actively participate in team life.

Well-organized and Structured Text

Your application should be organized and logically presented. Structure, consistency of thought, and correct use of language are key. This not only demonstrates your communication skills but also your ability to think critically.

Sincerity and Authenticity

The committee will immediately sense if your application is insincere or written to give a false impression. Your essay should reflect your genuine thoughts and feelings, don’t try to guess what they “want to hear”. It is better to be honest and sincere than to try to fit the stereotype of the perfect candidate.

You can find more successful examples of college admission essay prompts from us.

Bottom Line

The college application essay is essential to the final decision . Your grades play an important role, but your personality may hook the admissions officers so much that they will decide in your favor.

It is quite a challenge and you will surely need help along the way. A person who can guide and support is invaluable at such times. EssayEditors of EssayEdge team can help you with overcoming difficulties. We don’t write essays for you but help you bring out your best sides so that others can appreciate your talent and willingness to learn instead.