Writing About Issues
An issue is a topic of concern or an event that requires attention. The word is most often used in a political context to describe a controversy that has not yet reached a solution. Occasionally, people use the term to refer to problems that affect large groups of people, such as drug addiction or climate change. The term is also used in a more subjective manner, when someone refers to a personal problem such as a lack of emotional stability or unresolved trauma.
If you’re writing an article about a specific subject, such as the environment or a celebrity scandal, research the topic thoroughly and make sure your facts are correct. The more you know about the subject, the easier it will be to write your article. Also, remember that different types of issues require a different style of writing. For example, a troubleshooting article should focus on one problem and offer steps to resolve it. On the other hand, an opinion piece should be well written and balanced.
For many Americans, the most pressing issues are economic, foreign policy and social concerns. Inflation, the state of moral values and illegal immigration are top worries for Republicans and Republican-leaning independents, while Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents list gun violence and climate change as their main concerns.
The causes of social issues vary widely and are difficult to pinpoint. Some are the result of personal choices, such as drug addiction or cohabitating before marriage. Others are the result of societal circumstances, such as climate change or poverty. The subjectivity of what constitutes a social issue can lead to debate, such as whether child marriage is a social problem or an individual choice.
