This fifth edition of taking sides clashing views on controversial social issues continues the well development purpose of providing student with carefully considered and sharply opposed viewpoints on a number of enduring social issues. The editors provide on concise introduction to and postscript summary for each issue and then stand back to allow the pro and contra essays to speak for themselves. These essays have been selected for liveliness and substance and represent the arguments of leading social scientists and commentators. The student who has thoughtfully examined opposing viewpoints on a number of important issues should soon perceive what other position can be occupied on those issues and what other issues demand a careful consideration of antithetical viewpoints. It is the development of this critical approach to information which is the ultimate purpose of this and other volumes in the widely acclaimed taking sides program.