Banning smoking in public places, fighting obesity and getting screened for cancer are all topics that make a good persuasive speech. Each topic relies heavily upon government and scientific research -- research that is trustworthy and believable; research widely available through the Centers for Disease Control and the Department of Health and Human Services. Speakers make these topics more persuasive by incorporating personal battles and struggles into their dialogue with the audience. Telling people how they quit smoking, how they tried every diet possible to lose weight or how a cancer screening saved their life makes an impact; listeners connect a face to the story. Speechwriters can tailor the information to a specific audience by giving state and local facts that show the immediate impact on the community.
Many people have strong opinions on saving endangered species, off-shore oil drilling and global warming -- all hot button environmental issues. On one side, speakers can argue the benefits of saving animals on the endangered species list, why drilling off-shore for oil is bad for the oceans and how scientific evidence proves global warming takes place. To the contrary, speakers can also make the argument how people can't save every animal, how the U.S. needs to explore for oil off the coast and why the warming of the Earth is a natural occurrence. A lot of research is available on both sides of these arguments for people to make their point. In addition to making the environmental case, a speech can also include political and economic arguments.
Capital punishment, the war on poverty and school bullying are topics -- much like health topics -- that contain a large amount of research and studies. Connecting a story to any of these topics is a good way to make the point. Speakers can also show how programs set up by the government, foundations, or nonprofits helped people get out of the situation to make their lives better. A powerful and persuasive speech to a group of politicians, wealthy business professionals or high school students can change their mind about the death penalty, donating money to a foundation that helps the poor or treating classmates with respect. Speeches in these settings can leave people with a lasting impression.
Convincing someone to change political parties or beliefs is risky depending on the audience. Political speeches often include language telling an audience what they will do for them and how they can improve their life if elected. Persuasive speeches under this umbrella can also include topics about health, the environment, or social issues with a political bent to their point of view. Before making any sort of political speech to any group (or any persuasive speech that might include political overtones), be sure to check with the organizer of the event.