Topics for Argumentative Research Papers on Animals

Creating compelling, argumentative papers based around controversial subject matter is one way to advance your academic standing by actively being able to argue for and against points relevant to a topic. The topic of animals is ideal for a student seeking to choose a specific issue that has the ability to bring about heated debates and alternate ideas. Ample research, coupled with a multi-sided topic, can produce a paper to show off your analytical, writing and researching abilities.

One topic suitable for an argumentative paper on animals is the stance, either for or against, animals being kept in captivity for both research and entertainment purposes. This topic is suitable for a dual analysis approach, where pros and cons supporting both sides of the argument are highlighted. The pros of animals held in captivity, even for entertainment purposes, provide a venue for others to engage and enjoy animals not otherwise experienced in close quarters. Zoos, one type of holding facility, can be used for research purposes while simultaneously allowing visitors to watch the animals in recreated habitats. The cons associated with the topic include the lack of freedom and natural selection for animals that thrive well in indigenous environments.

The topic of animals used for medical and cosmetic testing is one with two distinct sides to the argument. A paper can choose to take one or both stances, lobbying for or against either side. The use of animals for medical and pharmaceutical testing is favorably argued by researching the medications and treatments made available for humans after animal testing had been performed. You could also argue the amount of approved medications that had subsequently been pulled from testing programs based on less than beneficial results found through animal testing. The argument against animal testing is one rooted on animal rights and the lack of humane methods associated with testing unknown pharmaceutical combinations, medical treatments or chemical compositions.

The debate, both for and against exotic animals as pets within a home or homestead, is one that can be argued by using current and historic research and data. For those taking the stance of exotic animals faring well in certain home-based situations, they could argue the point that abandoned or unwanted exotic animals can be given a second chance by being taken care of by a knowledgeable person in a properly designed setting. The flip side of the argument is one that examines the detrimental aspects of confining an exotic animal to a habitat, such as a home, which is not large enough nor suitable for the animal to grow and thrive.

The topic of domestic animals, such as dogs and cats, tends to be non-argumentative when taken at face value. One issue involving house pets, which is subject to debate, is the issue of how pets are treated, cared for and maintained. Some issues that provide for good sub-topics in an argumentative research paper include dyeing the fur of animals, painting toenails of pets, having dogs surgically altered to prevent or stave off barking, docking the tails of dogs, or breeding animals for the sole purpose of creating mixed hybrid variations.