eResources for Persuasive Speeches
In addition to the databases that we recommend for use in your informative speeches, the following controversial topics databases may be useful for your persuasive speeches.
- CQ Researcher This link opens in a new windowA collection of lengthy articles providing in-depth information on topics of current social, economic, environmental, and political interest. Each topic is presented in a comprehensive and objective manner
- Gale In Context Opposing Viewpoints This link opens in a new windowThis database provides analysis of social issues of current interest often in the form of argument essays. Documents are full-text.
- Issues and Controversies This link opens in a new windowA database of current issues providing an objective analysis of opposing points of view on topics of current and historical interest. Articles are full-text.
- Statista This link opens in a new window
This multidisciplinary database collects statistical information, both qualitative and quantitative, on more than 80,000 topics from more than 18,000 sources such as market research reports, scientific journals, and government databases. Includes more than 15,000 studies, industry reports, dossiers, and infographics, plus forecasts on over 500 industries and 40 economies over a period of five years. All information is prepared and checked by a research team of more than 80 analysts.
- ProQuest SIRS Issues Researcher This link opens in a new windowSIRS Issues Researcher is an editorially curated pro/con database designed for middle and high school students, university undergraduates, instructors, and librarians. Leading Issues pages provide a framework for understanding and analyzing over 360 complex social issues with overviews, essential questions, viewpoints, and editorially selected primary and secondary sources. All content is 100% full-text and selected from authoritative magazines, newspapers, photographs, books, statistics, infographics, websites, and more.
Websites for Persuasive Speeches
These websites list a number of helpful links for topic selection and pro/con perspectives:
- All Sides NewsThis news aggregate site aims to share news from all points of view by rating articles using a "bias detection system."
Refer to these sites for demographic research, public opinion polling, original reports and other data-driven research that might support your topic:
- Hoover Institution (Stanford University)Please note: There are a number of opinion/editorial pieces located in this site, so you will have to evaluate the content.