40 Group Discussion Topics

I have invented a list of fourthy public speaking topics for discussions and analyses in group discussions. They can be used in speech class for persuasive speaking assignments. Especially exploring a youth group discussion topic is an ideal method to test the listening, interhuman, persuasive and presentation skills of students.

There are roughly four types of group discussion topics:

Factual speech topics
Controversial and argumentative issues
Abstract discussion material
Case studies
Factual topics for a group are - as the word says - about facts. This is a sample list of speech topics on current issues and facts:
Conspiracy is a very common form of political behaviour.
The pros and cons of having a credit card.
A chain gang is a modern form of slavery.
Why drinking and driving is dangerous to yourself and others.
Passive smoking is equally harmful.
The economic boycott causes most of the problems in Cuba.
International trade barriers work.
City curfews help to prevent juvenile crime and to protect youth from victimization.
The U.N. is mainly based on diplomacy and enhancing relationships.
Affirmative action draws people to work they never considered before.
A controversial group discussion topic is a speech topic that has many controversies, pros and cons. Keep in mind that all current group discussion topics are not my opinion, but just a sample list of speech topics!
Sustainable urban living without the use of excessive natural resources must be our future.
Are there extraterrestrials who influence events on Earth?
Marijuana has a medical value.
Direct mail is a special form of junk mail.
The pros and cons of a female President.
Online dating chats have nothing to do with a search for a soul mate.
Should schools distribute condoms?
Most people support embryonic stem cell research.
Life imprisonment is a good alternative to capital punishment.
What is wrong with child labor?
Abstract group discussion topics are things that cannot be touched, not be easily defined or formulated. Just think in a creative manner and start a vivid group discussion with one of these abstract topics to talk about:
The Nostradamus Code
Breast Implants
Bribery in Business
Computer Viruses
Bigamy
Hidden Persuaders
Moral Majority
The Hippocratic Oath
Political Correctness
Vegetarianism