The Encyclopedia of Opinion
Mapping the world’s
opinions.
The strongest cases for and against the questions humans argue about — 997 questions and 4,574 arguments across 25 categories.
Recent questions
All questions →Is animal testing ethical?
The ethics of animal experimentation is a topic of hot debate in academia. Animal rights groups consider animal testing unethical due to the harm inflicted on animals. The other side of the debate justifies the harm because animal testing will bring greater benefits to the world.
Who bore responsibility for the start of World War I?
Lasting from 1914 to 1918, World War 1 claimed over 16 million lives, bolstered military technology, and brought world powers to the European theater to fight till ultimate destruction. Who can be blamed for the carnage seen throughout this conflict?
Should the American working class vote for Trump or Biden?
30-50% of American adults would describe themselves as working class. A large part of the population, yet one which doesn’t feel heard. Both Trump and Biden have appealed to them by making themselves seem more relatable and trustworthy. If elected, how will they support this alienated demographic?
Should athletes kneel during the national anthem?
In 2016, the San Francisco 49ers' quarterback, Colin Kaepernick, first took a knee during the national anthem playing before his teams' first preseason games. Since then, many other athletes have also taken a knee in protest against police violence and brutality in America. What exactly does this protest mean? Is it disrespectful to the country and the sport, or is it a legitimate form of protest against a country that has never treated its minorities fairly?
Should there be reparations for slavery?
More than 150 years since the end of slavery, racial inequality is still evident in the United States. Black Americans have an average household wealth just a tenth of white families, face housing and banking discrimination, and higher policing. Reparations for slavery is either a path towards equality or a path to further division.
Should the US maintain the embargo against Cuba?
In 1962 the US introduced a trade embargo, ‘El Bloqueo’, on Cuba, in response to the Cuban revolution. The embargo is an attempt to force regime change in a one-party state. Congressional support is needed to repeal the divisive measure, which has been written into statute.
What is Taiwan's political status?
Is Taiwan an independent country or a part of China? This entry maps the deeply contested debate over Taiwan's political status, setting out the opposing positions that it is a sovereign nation, and that it is part of China.
What is the purpose of life?
An age old question, that drives so much human energy to explore and understand. From religion, to work, to family, to friends, to pleasure, to exploration, to discovery, to ambition... much of our lives are spent in search of a meaning for life itself. Is there a reason behind our being?
How does the Northern Artistic Renaissance differ from the Italian Artistic Renaissance?
The art renaissance began in the 14th century in both Northern Europe and Italy, but they were vastly different. However, both spurred social change and scientific discovery. During this renaissance, art style changed in composition, color, religious representation, anatomy, and architecture.
Is Medusa a victim or villain?
Medusa is a famous figure in Greek mythology, often portrayed as a villain in most media. Her story, however, is much more complex than many are led to believe. Is Medusa really a villain, or is she a victim of her circumstances?
Who is the greatest Tottenham Hotspur striker of all time?
White Hart Lane - the North London heartland of football club Tottenham Hotspur - has been home to many world class strikers since the team was established in 1882. But who is the team's greatest striker of all time>?
What are the pros and cons of vaping?
The inhalation of vapor via an electronic cigarette is known as vaping. It is advertised as an alternative for cigarette smokers by delivering nicotine without tobacco. Health concerns from vaping are mostly uncertain, but according to reports by health experts, vaping can affect lungs, memory, and in some cases, result in death.
