The chapter explores the debate surrounding the roles of thermal and non-thermal pathways in plasmonic catalysis, a topic that has garnered significant attention in the scientific community. It delves into the fundamental principles of localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) and the behavior of excited charge carriers in illuminated plasmonic nanostructures, which form the basis of the two opposing viewpoints. The review discusses key arguments and evidence from both sides, highlighting the use of Arrhenius equations and their variations to understand the mechanisms. It emphasizes the significance of LSPR in collective charge oscillations and decay dynamics, and explores the nuances of activation energy and its relationship with temperature and light intensity. The chapter also addresses the complexities of measuring catalyst surface temperatures and their implications for understanding light-triggered reaction dynamics. Additionally, it covers wavelength-dependent reaction rates, kinetic isotope effects, and competitive electron transfer reactions, providing a comprehensive view of the field. The review aims to map the current landscape of plasmonic photocatalysis and facilitate future explorations and innovations to unlock the full potential of plasmon-mediated catalysis.The chapter explores the debate surrounding the roles of thermal and non-thermal pathways in plasmonic catalysis, a topic that has garnered significant attention in the scientific community. It delves into the fundamental principles of localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) and the behavior of excited charge carriers in illuminated plasmonic nanostructures, which form the basis of the two opposing viewpoints. The review discusses key arguments and evidence from both sides, highlighting the use of Arrhenius equations and their variations to understand the mechanisms. It emphasizes the significance of LSPR in collective charge oscillations and decay dynamics, and explores the nuances of activation energy and its relationship with temperature and light intensity. The chapter also addresses the complexities of measuring catalyst surface temperatures and their implications for understanding light-triggered reaction dynamics. Additionally, it covers wavelength-dependent reaction rates, kinetic isotope effects, and competitive electron transfer reactions, providing a comprehensive view of the field. The review aims to map the current landscape of plasmonic photocatalysis and facilitate future explorations and innovations to unlock the full potential of plasmon-mediated catalysis.