Ancillary essay topics are those that don’t fit into the full spectrum of traditional essay topics These are often far-reaching and unorthodox ideas that require a considerable amount of thought, creativity, and analysis to explore. Ancillary essay topics can challenge the writer to go beyond the traditional boundaries and explore a more abstract line of thinking required to truly dig into the hidden complex layers of any given topic.
Essay topics of this sort are often seen in creative writing courses or in courses that require a more advanced level of critical thinking. They are particularly popular in the humanities, such as philosophy or cultural studies, as they require thought-provoking analyses of topics that are not typically covered in traditional essays.
Here are five examples of interesting ancillary essay topics that can be used in a variety of courses.
1. A Comparative Analysis of the Pros and Cons of Social Media: This topic is increasingly relevant in today’s world and requires careful thought and analysis to determine the full impact of social media. From the spread of “fake news” to the more positive aspects such as immediate access to information and connection to friends, examining the real-world effects of social media can result in an intriguing essay.
2. The Impact of Technology on the Human Condition: Technology has drastically altered the human condition in both positive and negative ways. From the increase in accessibility to the rise of cyber-bullying, this topic can explore how technology has changed the way we think, feel, and interact with one another and with the world around us.
3. Analyzing the Impact of Religion and Its Consequences: Religion continues to be a contentious topic in many countries. This essay could explore the effects of religious-based conflict on a global scale or explore the impact of religion on individuals and how beliefs and values are shaped.
4. The Influence of Music on Society: Music and its influence on society is a timeless topic. This essay could explore how modern popular music, or even simply a particular genre, has helped to shape how people think and behave.
5. An Investigation Into the Effects of Gender Discrimination: Gender discrimination is a major issue that is often overlooked and misunderstood. This essay could explore how gender discrimination has affected, and continues to affect, individuals, institutions, and society at large.