These topics are selected to be controversial.  The intent is for the students to practice constructing and expressing logical, concrete arguments to support their selected position.  When the topic is in Italics, then all students are to take the same, specified position.  The intention is to help students to understand how others construct positions radically different from your own, and still requires the development and expression of a logical, concrete argument. 

1. Should a scientist living in a country develop weapons for that country to use?

2.  What is the most useful science, and why?

3.  How would our country be changed if only women could vote, but only men could hold office?  (The  converse can also be used.)

4.  Should scientists be held responsible for how other people use their discoveries?

5.  What is the most important discovery since 1900?  Explain why you think so.

6.  Why should the average person have a general understanding of Physics?

7.  Explain the value of one human life.

8.  Should the U.S. continue to fund the space program?  Justify your answer.

9.  If there were three genders, what would be the purpose/function of the third gender?

10.  Which came first, the chicken or the egg?  Explain your answer.

11.  Why are you studying Physics?

12.  Explain why sharing information can lead to greater freedom.

13.  Would you support or defend a requirement to solve a simple quadratic equation before being  allowed to vote in any election?  Justify your answer.

14.  Why should (or should not) science (eugenics) be used to control the Earth’s population?

15.  What is meant by the quotation “I think, therefore I am”?

16.  How should the crew for a one-way space trip to another star be picked?

17.  If cyborgs became practical, should they have equal rights with normal humans?

18.  Should people be used as test subjects for new medical technologies?  Justify your answer.

19.  Explain the difference between duty and obligation.

20.  Explain why people in hot climates tend to wear loose-fitting, light colored clothing.

21.  Why should students be required to wear uniforms to school?

22.  Why should students not be required to wear uniforms to school?

23.  Compare and contrast the advantages and disadvantages of daylight savings time.

24.  How should demonstrated proficiency in school affect retention and graduation?

25.  Which is more important, personal liberty or civil/social security?  Why?

26.  Which is more important, to do what is right or to fit in with everyone else?  Why?

27.  Explicitly explain what determines adulthood.

28.  How will the study of Physics help you in your chosen career?

29.  Why should only men be allowed to vote and hold office?  (Contrast with the converse).

30.  Explain why nuclear energy should/should not be used.

31.  If people were cloned, what should be the status of the clone?

32.  Explain why, historically, some races seem to be smarter/dominant for a period of time.

33.  Why do women need to wear makeup?

34.  Is there anything wrong with guys wearing kilts to school?  Justify your answer.

35.  Why should women be allowed to work?

36.  Why should men stay home and take care of the house & family?

37.  How is respect earned?

38.  How does what you wear affect how you are treated?

39.  Should ability affect placement?  (Affirmative Action)

40.  What educational benefit is provided by Spring Break?

42.  What are the characteristics of a lady?

43.  What are the characteristics of a gentleman?