Controversial Topics  

 If you haven't chosen a topic yet, there are many places to get ideas.

• Browse current magazine and newspaper articles, especially the opinion or editorial columns.
• Take a look at this list of topics and search terms from Newsbank.  Topics include current events from throughout the world relating to social studies, science, health, sports, and the arts.
• Look at the BOOKS tab above to see titles the library has in its collection.

Check the following websites for more ideas...

• ProCon.org  - Website which promotes critical thinking, education, and informed citizenship by presenting research on controversial issues in a straightforward, nonpartisan, and primarily pro-con format.
• Hot Topics Supersites - a directory of resources for controversial topics of current interest, put together the by San Diego State University library.
• Hot Paper Topics - Lists of research paper resources from St. Ambrose University.
• Issues pages at Speakout.com showcase leading research, opinions and events shaping public policy on dozens of issues including education, technology and healthcare.
• Public Agenda Online - Public debates on hot topics offering various views, pro and con.
• Almanac of Policy Issues - Neutral backgrounders on many controversial issues (death penalty, campaign finance reform, abortion, etc.), including links to news, articles, directories, and associations on either side of the issue.
• Rand Corporation – a nonprofit institution that addresses the challenges facing the public and private sectors around the world.  Their website contains research and hot topics.
• Reuters Issues 2012 - articles and video on issues currently in the headlines and being debated by candidates.

Remember that your topic may have to fit specific guidelines set by your instructor, and that you may have to broaden, narrow, or change the focus of your topic as you find more information.