Research the effect that gambling has on state and local economies. Discuss how much money state lotteries bring in. Alternatively, explore the impact that casinos have within a state's economy, comparing state economies that allow casinos and those that prohibit them.
The debate over immigration extends to multiple political realms. Research how illegal immigration effects the U.S. economy and how the economic opportunities available to illegal immigrants vary between their home country and the U.S. Alternatively, look at how legal immigration historically and presently impact the nation's economy.
Consider the problem of domestic poverty. Research possible solutions and discuss whether the government or private organizations should bear more responsibility in aiding the poor. Compare domestic poverty to international poverty and discuss any variations in how various countries define poverty.
The debate over capital punishment also extends into multiple politcal realms. Explore the economic implications of the death penalty. Research the total cost involved in executing death row inmates versus the total cost spent in keeping inmates in prison for life.
Research the economics involved in healthcare. Discuss how current government regulations help or hinder medical research and development, then propose how additional regulation might impact the healthcare system. Explore how insurance companies or other private institutions might benefit and hinder healthcare economics.
Research a significant economic issue of the past, such as the Great Depression. Discuss the causes of the economic depression. Alternatively, explore the steps taken to bring the United States economy out of the Great Depression and explore what may have happened if the government and its citizens did not take those steps.
Discuss the impact that outsourcing has on a nation's economy. Research the number of jobs lost due to outsourcing and how that unemployment affects the overall economy. Compare these numbers with the cost saved by the company and the consumer.
Research the topic of bankruptcy. Discuss how declaring bankruptcy affects an individual and explore the differences and similarities that occur when a company declares bankruptcy. Research how the bankruptcy of a major company influences a state or country's overall economy.
Discuss how minimum wage rates impact state and federal economies. Research the positives and negatives involved with raising minimum wage rates, considering how raising rates affects employees, employers and consumers.