Religion debate topics

Take a look at these thought-provoking religion debate topics that encourage students to critically engage with diverse perspectives and articulate their thoughts on important religious issues. Engage your students in these rich debates on Kialo Edu — the completely free discussion platform — to promote inclusive, structured discussions across all grade levels from elementary to high school!

Debate topics on religion and society

• Do all religions worship the same higher power?
• Do people need to have faith to live a meaningful life?
• Is marriage a thing of the past?
• Is religion a force for good?
• Is religious faith compatible with science?
• Is the declining interest in religion a problem?
• Is there only one true religion?
• Should atheism be considered a religion?
• Should celebrities keep their religion private?
• Should children sing religious songs at school?
• Should interpretations of religious texts change over time?
• Should modern justice systems include religious principles?
• Should people marry outside of their religious faith? 
• Should religion be a subject in school?
• Should religions treat all genders equally?
• Should religious holiday displays be allowed in public places?
• Should religious organizations be tax-exempt?
• Should there be legal exemptions for religious individuals?
• Should children be able to choose their own faith?
• What is the strongest argument in favor of the separation of church and state?

Buddhism debate topics

• Can Buddhist teachings on compassion extend to those who commit harmful acts?
• Is Buddhism a religion?
• Is meditation the most effective path to enlightenment?
• Is the monastic lifestyle the highest expression of Buddhist practice?
• Should Buddhist teachings on non-attachment be interpreted literally?
• Should traditional Buddhist texts be reinterpreted in light of modern values?
• What’s the best way for Buddhism to address contemporary issues like climate change and social justice?

Christianity debate topics

• Does St. Anselm’s ontological argument prove the existence of God?
• If God is all-powerful and all-knowing, is God responsible for evil?
• Is baptism necessary for salvation?
• Is Christianity compatible with democracy?
• Is Christianity compatible with feminism?
• Is it right for God to punish all humanity for Adam and Eve’s sin?
• Is Mary, mother of Jesus, a feminist figure?
• Should Christian leadership roles be open to all genders?
• Should Christians participate in modern-day healing services?
• Should Christmas be a national holiday in Western countries?
• Should Easter be celebratory or serious?
• Should the words of the Bible be taken literally?
• Should we use pagan imagery when celebrating Easter?
• Was Pontius Pilate responsible for the execution of Jesus?
• Which holiday is more important for Christians: Christmas or Easter?

Hinduism debate topics

• Does the Bhagavad Gita promote the caste system?
• Is the commercialization of Hindu festivals and rituals a threat to their spiritual significance?
• Is the idea of a singular ultimate truth in Hindu philosophy compatible with its diverse beliefs and practices?
• Should Hindu leadership roles be open to all genders?
• Should Hindu texts be interpreted literally?
• Should the concept of dharma be adapted based on individual circumstances?
• Should there be a greater emphasis on environmental stewardship in Hindu teachings?

Islam debate topics

• Are cultural practices in Muslim societies often mistaken for religious obligations?
• Can interfaith dialogue effectively bridge the gap between Muslims and non-Muslims?
• Is Islam compatible with democracy?
• Is Islam compatible with feminism?
• Is it possible for a Muslim to fully embrace modernity without compromising their faith?
• Is the concept of jihad compatible with contemporary society?
• Is the concept of Sharia law compatible with modern legal systems?
• Should Islamic leadership roles be open to all genders?
• Should Muslim-majority countries adopt a political system based on Islamic principles?
• Should the interpretation of the Quran evolve with changing societal contexts?

Judaism debate topics

• Do varying beliefs about God within different Jewish denominations enrich the faith?
• Is Judaism compatible with democracy?
• Is Judaism compatible with feminism?
• Is it possible for Jewish communities to balance religious observance with the demands of living in a secular society?
• On each night of Hanukkah, should the number of lit candles increase or decrease?
• Should Jewish leadership roles be open to all genders?
• Should Jews be able to celebrate both Hanukkah and Christmas?
• Should the concept of the Messiah be interpreted literally within Judaism?
• Should the interpretation of the Torah evolve with contemporary societal norms?
• Should we stop telling the “miracle of the lamp oil” story for Hanukkah?

Debate topics on religion and ethics

• Are the criteria for truth applicable to religious stories?
• Can morality exist without religion?
• Does the concept of sin create unnecessary guilt and fear?
• Is anything ever eternal?
• Is it ethical for religious leaders to engage in political activism?
• Is it ethical to impose one’s religious beliefs on others in matters of public policy?
• Should religious texts be considered authoritative sources for ethical decision-making?
• Should we always forgive others?
• How should religious communities respond to ethical dilemmas arising from technological advancements?

These religion debate topics are just a glimpse of what Kialo has to offer! With more than 500 discussion topics in our Topic Library, there’s something for every age group and subject area.

Looking for debate topics in more languages? We’ve got you covered! Explore our extensive collection to spark captivating class discussions with students, no matter the language you’re teaching in.