The debate over health care fills radio talk shows, cable news shows and newspapers. Topics include paying for health care, allowing a government takeover and regulating insurance companies. Writers can also explore issues of bioethics in health care, such as end-of-life issues and abortion. A persuasive paper on quitting smoking, losing weight or eating healthy can use good storytelling about a personal struggle that can motivate or inspire someone to do the same. In writing about fitness programs or going to the gym, topics focus on a healthier lifestyle to cut back on doctor visits and overall health-care costs.
Environmental issues such as global warming, offshore oil drilling and air pollution provide good fodder for persuading an audience how to regard each issue. Topics also include persuading someone to take part in a recycling program, to bike to work one day a week or to ride in a car pool, all in the name of conservation. Researching these topics means examining scholarly research, looking through studies and interviewing scientists to the reasoning for their point of view. Many politicians also argue these same points, and writers should take their views into consideration.
Persuasive angles in education range from classroom instruction to the cost of education. Topics include advocating for charter schools, adjusting the length of the school day and school year, and adding more creative classes to the curriculum such as art, music and dance. Writers can also persuade parents to take an active role in their child's education, students to become more diligent in preparing for college and mentors to help disadvantaged children. Writers can also focus on funding education, allowing the government to give parents school vouchers and paying teacher salaries.
Consumer issues affect just about everyone, and writing about topics like investments, taxes and budgets usually garners a lot of interest. Persuading someone to invest her money in a particular area, to diversify her stocks or to reevaluate her pension plan are all areas where writers can make a convincing argument, particularly if the goal is a sales pitch. Persuading an audience about paying too much in taxes and facing too much regulation can convince them to take action by writing to a member of congress or contacting a lobbying firm. Writing about why families need a family budget and why they need to live within their means can help teach financial responsibility and independence.