10 Discursive Essay Writing Ideas

10 Discursive Essay Writing Ideas: Engage Your Readers with Thought-Provoking Topics
Discursive Essay Writing Ideas

10 Discursive Essay Writing Ideas

What is a discursive essay?

A discursive essay is a type of writing that presents arguments and counterarguments on a particular topic. It aims to explore different perspectives and provide a balanced analysis. Unlike a persuasive essay, which aims to convince the reader of a particular viewpoint, a discursive essay presents both sides of an issue fairly and objectively.

How to write a discursive essay?

To write a discursive essay, follow these steps:

  1. Choose a topic: Select a topic that is debatable and has multiple perspectives.
  2. Research the topic: Gather information from various sources to support your arguments.
  3. Outline your essay: Create an outline to structure your essay, including an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
  4. Present both sides of the argument: Discuss the arguments for and against your chosen topic.
  5. Provide evidence: Support your arguments with facts, statistics, and examples.
  6. Counter opposing arguments: Address potential counterarguments and refute them.
  7. Write a balanced conclusion: Summarize your main points and offer your own perspective on the topic.

What are the elements of a discursive essay?

The elements of a discursive essay include:

  • Clear thesis statement: A statement that clearly outlines the topic and the writer’s stance.
  • Strong arguments: Well-supported arguments that present both sides of the issue.
  • Counterarguments: Acknowledgment and refutation of opposing viewpoints.
  • Evidence: Facts, statistics, and examples to support arguments.
  • Balanced tone: A neutral and objective tone throughout the essay.
  • Clear organization: A logical structure with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.

What are some examples of discursive essay topics?

Here are 10 discursive essay writing ideas:

  1. The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence: Explore the ethical implications of AI development and use.
  2. The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health: Discuss the positive and negative effects of social media on mental well-being.
  3. The Future of Work: Analyze the changing nature of work and its implications for the workforce.
  4. The Death Penalty: A Moral Dilemma Debate the morality and effectiveness of capital punishment.
  5. Climate Change: A Global Crisis Discuss the causes, consequences, and potential solutions to climate change.
  6. The Role of Education in Society: Examine the importance of education for individual and societal development.
  7. The Pros and Cons of Globalization: Analyze the benefits and drawbacks of globalization.
  8. The Gender Pay Gap: A Persistent Problem Discuss the causes and consequences of the gender pay gap.
  9. The Impact of Technology on Human Relationships: Explore how technology has changed the way we connect with others.
  10. The Importance of Diversity and Inclusion: Discuss the benefits of diversity and the challenges of achieving inclusion.

Table: 10 Discursive Essay Writing Ideas

TopicDescription
The Ethics of Artificial IntelligenceExplore the ethical implications of AI development and use.
The Impact of Social Media on Mental HealthDiscuss the positive and negative effects of social media on mental well-being.
The Future of Work:Analyze the changing nature of work and its implications for the workforce.
The Death Penalty: A Moral DilemmaDebate the morality and effectiveness of capital punishment.
Climate Change: A Global CrisisDiscuss the causes, consequences, and potential solutions to climate change.
The Role of Education in SocietyExamine the importance of education for individual and societal development.
The Pros and Cons of GlobalizationAnalyze the benefits and drawbacks of globalization.
The Gender Pay Gap: A Persistent ProblemDiscuss the causes and consequences of the gender pay gap.
The Impact of Technology on Human RelationshipsExplore how technology has changed the way we connect with others.
The Importance of Diversity and InclusionDiscuss the benefits of diversity and the challenges of achieving inclusion.
10 Discursive Essay Writing Ideas

FAQs

What is the difference between a discursive essay and a persuasive essay?

A discursive essay presents both sides of an argument fairly and objectively, while a persuasive essay aims to convince the reader of a particular viewpoint.

Can I use personal opinions in a discursive essay?

Yes, you can use personal opinions in a discursive essay, but you should also provide evidence to support your claims.

How can I make my discursive essay more interesting?


To make your discursive essay more interesting, use vivid language, strong arguments, and counterarguments. Avoid making sweeping generalizations and provide specific examples to support your claims.

What is the purpose of a discursive essay?

The purpose of a discursive essay is to explore different perspectives on a particular topic and provide a balanced analysis.

Can a discursive essay be persuasive?

While a discursive essay does not aim to persuade the reader of a particular viewpoint, it can be persuasive by presenting strong arguments and evidence.

For more essay writing tips and resources, visit Smart Academic Writing. Our experts can provide guidance and support to help you write your best discursive essay.

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