Many people feel that American society is too competitive. Does competition lead to better products and results, or does it lead to a focus on winning at all costs? Is fierce competition a good idea or bad idea? Take a position on the issue. Support your response with reasons and examples.
People who value self-reliance define it as the need for each individual to follow his or her own instincts and ideas. Should people make their own decisions, or should they seek guidance from experts and authorities about life’s important matters? Take a position on this issue. Support your response with reasons and specific examples.
A city council is debating the adoption of a 10 P.M. weekday curfew and a midnight weekend curfew for teenagers. If the curfew is adopted, teenagers on the streets after those hours would be breaking the law. Do curfews keep teenagers out of trouble, or do they unfairly interfere in young people’s lives? Take a position on this question. Use reasons and specific examples to support your views.
Some people say that most teenagers are careless and do not think about the consequences of their actions. Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Take a position on this question. Use reasons and specific examples to support your opinion.
Many cities have issues with air pollution and traffic jams because there are too many cars on the roads. Some people feel that cities should restrict the use of cars and require people to walk, bike, or use public transportation, such as buses or trains. Do you think this proposal is a good idea? Why or why not? Take a position on the issue. Support your response with reasons and examples.
Companies market products to children, especially through television commercials shown with children's programming. Designed to appeal to children, these advertisements promote products like toys and snack foods. Should companies be permitted to market to children, or should children be protected from the influence of advertising? Take a position on this issue. Use reasons and specific examples to support your ideas.
Because of safety concerns, many states have increased the age at which teens can begin to drive. Your state legislature is considering raising the minimum driving age from 16 to 18. Do you think the minimum driving age should be raised? Take a position on this issue. Support your response with reasons and specific examples.