Troll Factories
Russia's Web Brigades
Part of the At Issue series
Many Americans became aware of Russia's web brigades during the 2016 presidential election, during which allegations of Russian interference came to light. However, Russia's history of online meddling extends back to the early 2000s and far beyond just the United States. This volume explores the little known history of Russia's troll factories and the role they have played in various political movements and events, as well as the factors that enabled this interference and the possible means of combatting it.
Money Laundering
Part of the At Issue series
When one thinks of money laundering, the first thing that might come to mind is its connection to organized crime, with gangs and drug cartels hiding away large amounts of illegally obtained cash. However, many other groups and individuals also partake in money laundering, including white-collar criminals, terrorists, and even politicians. The viewpoints in this book examine what money laundering is and how it occurs, what domestic and international efforts are in place to fight it, and how technology both aids and complicates these efforts.
Nuclear Anxiety
Part of the At Issue series
For many, nuclear anxiety is closely related to the Cold War between the U.S. and U.S.S.R. Following the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in World War II, the devastating potential of these weapons was all too clear, which led to significant anxiety among civilians, politicians, and military personnel over their use. Though the Cold War ended in 1991, anxieties surrounding nuclear armament remain, and the players involved in these nuclear standoffs have changed over recent decades. Your readers will explore the history and present status of nuclear weaponry, along with its social, political, and health impacts.
America's Infrastructure
Part of the At Issue series
Engineers argue that inadequate maintenance of roads, bridges, airports, waterways, and other critical aspects of infrastructure along with underinvestment have created an infrastructure crisis in the United States. Many politicians agree with this claim and are attempting to take action. However, we are faced with the issue of which projects are most essential and how to fund them. Is the state of America's infrastructure that dire compared to the rest of the world? Are these efforts to improve it a cynical ploy from politicians to gain attention and ensure reelection? This volume considers the many perspectives of this pressing issue.
Political Corruption
Part of the At Issue series
It would seem logical that once a home is vacuumed, swept, and dusted, someone with a dust allergy would feel better. It's actually the opposite! Cleaning disturbs dust particles and it can make allergy sufferers cough, wheeze, and itch. So what do you do when we all live with dust around us? This book guides readers through why people have dust allergies and how to deal with these allergies, as well as other allergies these sufferers may have. Full-color photographs give up-close views of dust to complement the age-appropriate text.
Ethical Pet Ownership
Puppy Mills, Rescue Pets, and Exotic Animal Trade
Part of the At Issue series
This beginner's guide offers a first glimpse into the natural world of insects.
In this addition to the acclaimed About... series, educator and author Cathryn Sill uses simple, easy-to-understand language to teach children what insects are, how they look, how they move, what they eat, and where they live. With beautifully detailed, realistic paintings, noted wildlife illustrator John Sill introduces readers to the wide variety of insects, from grasshoppers to the Monarch Butterfly. An afterword provides further details on the insects featured and inspires young readers to learn more.
The Role of Religion in Public Policy
Part of the At Issue series
Provide your readers with this essential guidebook about Islam and its role in society. As of 2015, approximately 1.8 billion people identified as Muslim, 24 percent of the global population. Islam's adherents are found throughout the world, but some question whether its values and practices are at odds with those of Western nations, with particular concerns about Muslim extremism and its connection to terrorism. This has prompted attempts to control or even prevent Muslims from entering Western countries. As the global Muslim population continues to rise and immigration increases, questions about the role of Islam and its adherents in society have become increasingly urgent.
The Politicization of The Supreme Court
Part of the At Issue series
As the most powerful judiciary body in the U.S., the Supreme Court is expected to uphold Constitutional values while remaining insulated from influence by political agendas. In recent years, however, some have perceived the Supreme Court as becoming increasingly politicized, with some labeling the 2018 appointment of Justice Kavanaugh a pro-conservative political maneuver. Despite these recent concerns, there are also numerous historical examples of judicial activism. This volume discusses the Supreme Court's politicization across history, examines whether it is realistic or useful to expect it to be insulated from politics, and evaluates possible means of depoliticizing the court.
Open Borders
Part of the At Issue series
The term "open borders" refers to a policy of allowing free movement between countries without restrictions or border control. In an era characterized by the Brexit referendum and the Trump administration's policy of restricting immigration in the U.S., the prospect of borders being open may seem improbable. A number of politicians, policymakers, economists, and citizens assert that referendums and restrictions are the best way to address the economic and social issues that the international community faces today. This volume helps readers examine the issue of open borders from a variety of angles, examining its economic, social, political, moral, and legal aspects.
Club Drugs
Part of the At Issue series
LSD, MDMA, Ketamine, the number of drugs used to enhance the experience of clubs, music festivals, or social gatherings seems to grow year after year. Despite the immense danger of these drugs, they continue to be used recreationally by many young adults. This necessary edition joins the voices of organizations such as the Office on Women's Health, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, and Frontline in order to present readers with a comprehensive understanding of club drug use.
Athlete Activism
Part of the At Issue series
While Colin Kaepernick's 2016 protests reignited the debate surrounding athletes and political activism, the relationship between the two is a longstanding tradition. The athletic field has long been a site for protests against racism, hosting key events
Sexual Consent
Part of the At Issue series
For many years, "no means no" served as the standard for whether sexual consent is granted, but valid concerns have called for an expansion of this standard. Factors that could prevent someone from rejecting an unwanted advance include coercion and intoxication, making the concept of verbal consent muddy. The debate over whether this standard should be replaced and what should replace it has brought forth various possible solutions, with some arguing that only enthusiastic verbal consent will do, and others asserting that this expectation is unrealistic. Factors like age, positions of trust and authority, and mental and emotional conditions and disabilities also factor into the discussion. The well-balanced articles found here will provide your readers with an intelligent understanding of this topic.
Celebrities in Politics
Part of the At Issue series
From campaigning for politicians, to speaking out on political issues, to running for public office, celebrities around the world have long played an active role in politics. Their presence in the public sphere often helps them make this leap, but is the fact that we recognize their names and faces enough to make them trustworthy political figures? The diverse viewpoints in this volume explore what role celebrities should play in politics, discuss the phenomenon of making the transition from celebrity to politician, and investigate the place of contemporary media culture in this pattern.
Superfoods
Part of the At Issue series
We are what we eat. What does eating superfoods do for us? Superfoods are nutrient-rich foods considered to be especially beneficial for health and well-being. They are rich in antioxidants, polyphenols, vitamins, and minerals. Eating them may reduce the risk of chronic disease and prolong life. Readers will be intrigued to learn that people who eat more superfoods are healthier and thinner than those who don't. This book examines various superfoods like kale and quinoa. It also discusses the impact that superfoods may have on the environment. It examines juicing and health, creating smart young readers who will make smart choices about their nutrition.
Childhood Obesity
Part of the At Issue series
Childhood obesity has tripled in the United States since the 1970s, leaving many of America's children vulnerable to long-term physical and mental health issues. In an attempt to understand what is responsible for these swelling statistics, a number of health professionals, school administrators, government officials, and cultural experts have examined the possible culprits. This informative edition explores a number of those perspectives, urging readers to use essays and articles as the basis for further inquiry and individual assessment. This book examines the role of government, the responsibilities of parents, the health care costs of childhood obesity, fast food and food marketing, as well as physical activity as it relates to childhood obesity.
Cyberwarfare
Part of the At Issue series
There is warfare, and there is cyberwarfare. In today's technologically-driven world, governments, and even terrorist groups and hacktivists, engage in cyberwarfare to attack or disrupt the operations of other nations and organizations. Recent revelations about cyberattacks that threatened individual and national security have caused ripples of concern and outrage, but tend to die down quickly. How safe are we, and do we take security for granted? This resource offers a diverse selection of viewpoints from the top voices in the field to enlighten readers about warfare in the Information Age.
Superbugs
Part of the At Issue series
Where do Antibiotic-resistant superbugs come from and what can we do to combat them? This volume takes a look at the issue from all angles; the role of government, where lobbyists and drug companies fit in, and how the overuse of antibiotics and antibacterial products may contribute to the problem.
Vaccines
Part of the At Issue series
This book examines the current issues surrounding vaccinations, such as the benefits and risks of vaccinations, the growing anti-vaccination movement, and the efficacy of vaccines for HPV and HIV. Includes primary and secondary sources from a variety of perspectives; eyewitnesses, scientific journals, government officials, and many others.
Presentism
Reexamining Historical Figures Through Today's Lens
Part of the At Issue series
While death is a universal experience, the traditions that surround it differ from culture to culture. How should the body of the deceased be laid to rest? What should be done with his or her belongings? How can a person's legacy live on through traditions and keepsakes? This volume explores practices around the world, addressing the practical and spiritual considerations that come with death and encouraging readers to keep an open mind toward the rituals and beliefs of other cultures and turn a critical eye toward their own.
Partisanship
Part of the At Issue series
The two-party system has long characterized American politics, but partisanship as it is understood today is a relatively recent phenomenon. Today, partisanship is not simply based on one's voting record but a totalizing sense of identification with one party over the other. Consequently, the American political climate is more polarized than ever before. Though this fact is often reported with alarm, it may be too soon to determine whether partisanship actually damages democracy. This volume examines what partisanship means today, how this differs from historical partisanship, its contributing factors, and the effect it has on the country.
COVID-19 and Other Pandemics
Part of the At Issue series
From the Black Death of the fourteenth century to more recent Ebola and SARS and the ongoing HIV/AIDS crisis, pandemics and disease outbreaks have devastated societies, wiped out significant portions of populations, and necessitated political, social, and scientific changes to address these public health catastrophes. When the COVID-19 virus effectively brought the world to its knees in 2020, it became clear that whatever scientists and policymakers had learned from historical pandemics wasn't enough. Journalists, politicians, medical professionals, and other experts from a range of fields weigh in on how pandemics happen and evaluate the potential means of controlling them.
Wellness Culture
Part of the At Issue series
Wellness culture promises a reprieve from the stress of long workdays, restrictive dieting, and punishing exercises through providing the alternative of a balanced lifestyle that simply focuses on feeling good. However, the reality of wellness culture is more complicated. While some assert that it successfully promotes well-being, others argue that it is simply a way of rebranding the dieting and exercise regimens that already existed, building an industry around the products and services that allegedly promote wellness. This volume clarifies the nebulous concept of "wellness" and explores how culture, business, and health intersect to create today's wellness culture.
The Death Penalty
Part of the At Issue series
Is capital punishment morally justified? Although the issue generates strong opinions, there are no easy answers when it comes to taking the life of a human being. Supporters of the death penalty believe it deters law-breaking and is the only punishment strong enough for horrific crimes such as child murder and genocide. Opponents argue that it violates human rights and point to its finality in the face of judicial system error and unfairness. This resource presents a fascinating progression of current viewpoints that reflect the many facets of the death penalty debate.
Reproductive Rights
Part of the At Issue series
There has been a neat divide in the United States and elsewhere between the "pro-choice" and "pro-life" camps. Reproductive rights are more expansive than the abortion debate. Access to affordable health services is a fundamental right, yet women, who are subject to discrimination, poverty, and violence at a higher rate than men, are at risk for losing access to screenings, maternal care, and contraception. Does the government have the right to legislate women's health? This close examination provides perspectives from all sides to help readers understand what is at stake.
Domestic Terrorism
Part of the At Issue series
What constitutes domestic terrorism? The answer is actually more complicated than most of us would think. Readers of this informative anthology will progress through a range of articles offering diverse viewpoints about the Patriot Act, the differences in perception of white Christian violent extremists and those of other races and religions, why some environmental and animal activists are considered terrorists, the growing problem of "paper terrorism," and what can lead homegrown terrorists to lash out against a country that has given them so much opportunity.
Should the U.S. Close Its Borders?
Part of the At Issue series
The Statue of Liberty is a global symbol, forever tied to the poem by Emma Lazarus, in which Lady Liberty beckons and welcomes all who seek freedom from oppression. While the feelings behind this sentiment are obvious, the politics around whether a country can take in unlimited numbers of persons are not. Now more than ever, America's politics on border and immigration control are being hotly debated. This volume gathers eyewitness accounts, governmental views, scientific analysis, and newspaper accounts about border control so that your readers can seek answers in one source. Readers will learn about the impact of increased border control and enforcement, and they will decide for themselves whether it is effective. Pull quotes, of the most important facts, are placed throughout the texts to help readers track the most salient things to consider in crafting their opinion or research.
Is America a Democracy or an Oligarchy?
Part of the At Issue series
Since the inception of the United States, certain democratic principles have been inherent to the nation's political identity. Theoretically, this means that all citizens should receive equal representation and opportunity. However, income inequality has grown in recent years and shows no signs of slowing. Some argue that the wealthy are given unequal power over the government and society as a whole, creating an oligarchy. The viewpoints in this volume, examine the development of the country from political, social, and economic perspectives to determine whether the country can still be considered a democracy.
Civil Disobedience
Part of the At Issue series
Civil disobedience, the refusal to obey certain laws, is a method of protest famously articulated by philosopher and writer Henry David Thoreau in his 1849 essay "Civil Disobedience." Thoreau believed that protest became a moral obligation when laws collided with conscience. Since then, civil disobedience has been employed as a form of rebellion around the world. But is there a place for civil disobedience in democratic societies? When is civil disobedience justifiable? Is violence ever called for? Furthermore, how effective is civil disobedience?
Genocide
Part of the At Issue series
In 1948, the United Nations established the Genocide Convention to legally define genocide as actions intended to destroy a particular group of people based on race, religion, ethnicity, and other defining characteristics. The goal was to prevent and punish future acts of genocide, but a number of mass killings have followed since its establishment, and in some situations whether these executions qualify as genocides is surprisingly unclear. The viewpoints in this volume explore what genocide is and isn't, and provide historical and contemporary examples of genocide. Readers will examine potential political and social solutions to prevent future genocides.
Divorce and Children
Part of the At Issue series
This book explores issues pertaining to divorce and children, including children's rights in divorce, custody and visitation decisions, the duties of the parents during divorce, and blended families. Essays debate each issue, allowing readers to think critically while learning new information.
Caffeine
Part of the At Issue series
Caffeine consumption has become commonplace amongst young adults in recent years, with many teens, up to 80 percent, eagerly reaching for coffee or energy drinks on a regular basis. Caffeinated substances are legal, widely used by society, and often touted as having health benefits, yet many teenagers fail to realize that caffeine is also a drug. When misused it can lead to dependency or abuse. This informative anthology examines the various degrees of caffeine use, outlining a variety of perspectives on topics such as caffeine and cognitive performance, caffeine as an addictive substance, and the complexities of caffeine regulation.
Vaping
Part of the At Issue series
Though first introduced in 2003, vaping's popularity has rapidly increased in recent years. Vaping involves the inhalation of aerosols and is generally considered safer than smoking tobacco, but little is currently known about its health impacts. Additionally, although evidence suggests that vaping can help curb tobacco smoking, there is also concern that it increases addiction among non-smokers, especially children and teenagers. This concern is exacerbated by marketing strategies for electronic cigarettes, which often seem targeted toward young people. The perspectives in this resource explore the facts that are currently available on vaping along with its relationship to addictive substances.
Wrongful Conviction and Exoneration
Part of the At Issue series
Since 1989, there have been over 2,200 exonerations in the United States. These have resulted from a number of factors, including the discovery of new evidence, perjury, false identification, and bad forensic evidence. Even when an individual is exonerated, is it possible to compensate them for their loss of time and money? This volume looks at the issue from varying perspectives, exploring causes of wrongful convictions, ways to increase exonerations for those who were unjustly imprisoned, strategies to decrease the number of wrongful convictions going forward, and appropriate compensation for those who have lost years of their lives.
Public Outrage and Protest
Part of the At Issue series
The United States has had an active history of public protest since colonial times, with the Boston Tea Party serving as an emblematic example to this day. Protest in the United States is often associated with its zenith in the 1960s, but demonstrations of public outrage continue to play a major role in contemporary America, with notable recent examples ranging from the Women's March to Black Lives Matter protests. Through this volume's dynamic viewpoints, readers will gain a better understanding of the history of public protest, its differing manifestations, and its efficacy in promoting political and social change.
Mob Rule or the Wisdom of the Crowd?
Part of the At Issue series
One of the tenets of democracy is that everyone has a voice in decision making and that the decisions made are what the majority wants. Many argue that wisdom of the crowd prevails in democracies, but are political decisions actually reached by a clear consensus, or does angry factionalism prevent this? Does irrational mob rule cause people to gang together and lash out against the opposition? Are the majority of citizens satisfied with the political situation? This volume explores whether political organization is possible without the force of mob rule, as well as how contemporary political events fit into this debate.
Vaccination
Part of the At Issue series
Give your readers a comprehensive resource that will allow them to form intelligent opinions on a perennial, hot-button topic. Since the smallpox vaccine was invented in 1796, vaccination has played an essential role in eradicating a number of diseases, including polio, measles, tetanus, and smallpox. Despite its effectiveness at preventing disease outbreaks, vaccination has been met with resistance. It has on rare occasions caused patients to become injured or ill, encouraging some to deduce that they are not worth the risk. Questions about whether vaccines are linked to autism also abound. While universal vaccination would help to eliminate diseases, the question of whether it violates individual liberty merits consideration. The prospective future of vaccination is also discussed.
Universal Health Care
Part of the At Issue series
Under universal health care, all residents of a country would be guaranteed care without incurring financial hardship, regardless of income. Out of the thirty-three countries that are considered developed, thirty-two have universal health care, with the U
The Children of Undocumented Immigrants
Part of the At Issue series
The Migration Policy Institute released a fact sheet in 2016, stating that children born in the U.S. of a parent or parents who are undocumented immigrants, are placed at a severe disadvantage in life. This data was collected from 5.1 million children who are living with an unauthorized immigrant parent. Researchers found that these children are likely not to be enrolled in preschool, are likely to be held in a socioeconomic level that keeps them from developing and gaining access to resources, and are likely to fail in English proficiency that is necessary to move ahead in life. Place on top of that, the stress that their parent might be deported at any minute. These children are at risk, without a doubt. While U.S. policies on immigration and border control are hotly debated, this volume makes sure that we don't forget what's really at stake, the future of our young. Your readers are given the full breadth of perspectives on this topic, through eyewitness accounts, governmental views, scientific analysis, and newspaper accounts. Important details are pulled out from the text and presented in italicized font so that readers can track the facts, and refer to them for research and report writing. Most important of all, by reading balanced and well-researched entries, students will be able to form intelligent opinions on this pressing issue.
What Is the Impact of Twitter?
Part of the At Issue series
The experience is probably still too fresh for deep analysis, but will History tell the story that Donald Trump's success in his road to the White House was stimulated by his frequent use of Twitter? Is Twitter transforming not just our social landscape, but political landscape too? How has the use of a communication tool, limited to140 characters or less, become a globally recognized dispenser of news, facts, alternative facts, and a moral compass for our society? This book compiles compelling essays and works from eyewitness accounts, governmental views, scientific analysis, and newspapers to give your readers the big picture about Twitter and its importance. Readers will be given both sides, for and against, on topics such as whether Twitter should be used for news reporting, whether the psychology behind it is healthy, and whether it will become profitable. Facts that are salient to both sides of the story are copied from the text and highlighted so readers can use them for report writing, research, or forming opinions based on relevant information.
Are Graphic Music Lyrics Harmful?
Part of the At Issue series
This book explores issues related to graphic music lyrics. It covers topics such as intent as a standard, violent lyrics and aggression, and the effects of violent music lyrics. It examines whether sexual music harms children and women. It also discusses "Bro Country" music, and whether it is harmful.
What Are the Jobs of the Future?
Part of the At Issue series
The rise of robot automation in the automobile manufacturing industry struck fear into many a laborer's heart, as it was equated with human job and career loss. A Ball State University 2015 study found 88 percent of U.S. job loss was due to robots or homegrown factors to reduce factories' need for human labor. The International Federation of Robotics, however reported that between 2010 and 2015, the U.S. automotive sector installed 135,000 robots, but hired 230,000 human employees. So while technology advances, will it replace us in our current jobs, or create new ones for us? Is Data Scientist the most promising job of the future, or is that all techno-hype? Are our office environments going to be replaced by the off-site work-at-home or freelance model? This book compiles essays and works from eyewitness accounts, governmental views, scientific analysis, and newspapers to give your reader the forecast of jobs to come. Salient facts are pulled out from the text and repeated, making it easy for students to compile details for research and report writing.
The Right to Die
Part of the At Issue series
We all die, but should we have the ability to choose when? Death is part of life, but not everyone agrees on the details. What if you have painful, terminal illness? Is it okay to seek suicide if a doctor assists? Do you have a right to end your own life? Is doing so a violation of God's or a greater power's plan? This anthology engages this dilemma from diverse perspectives, grounding abstract and moral discussions in real-life events such as Oregon's right-to-die law. Students will analyze the various facets of this controversial subject with decisive interpretations from religion, medicine, law, and philosophy.
Guns and Crime
Part of the At Issue series
Do guns contribute to or prevent crime? Is gun ownership a right or a privilege? Would Americans be safer without guns? This is a compendium of opinions on the issue of guns and crime answering these questions and more, including whether more stringent gun control would increase or decrease violence. Readers see both sides to relating issues, such as gun control, individual rights, its impact on children, and assault weapon bans.
The Ethics of WikiLeaks
Part of the At Issue series
What is Wikileaks and how does it work? Wikileaks aims to expose secrets and make available important, and often classified, information to the public. The organization's commitment to encouraging and protecting whistleblowers and journalists is seen by many to be a heroic fight for free speech and government transparency. But at what point does the First Amendment matter more than security and diplomacy? Is the organization's agenda really as pure as it purports? Through reading a variety of authoritative viewpoints on the topic, readers will be encouraged to make sense of this ethical dilemma.
Gender Politics
Part of the At Issue series
It is somewhat astounding that a gender gap continues to exist today in the United States and worldwide. Girls and women face educational roadblocks, economic disparity, threats to their health and safety, and biased laws. How can such treatment of the world's mothers, sisters, wives, and daughters be permitted? This enlightening anthology presents a range of diverse viewpoints about the gender divide between men and women. Readers will learn the effects that culture and gender constructs have on this gap, and why it is an issue that concerns both women and men.
Can Diets Be Harmful?
Part of the At Issue series
Low-carb, paleo, gluten-free, and fad diets come and go. Which ones are harmless, and which should be avoided by adults and children? Editor Amy Francis pries the lid off the confusing issue of what we should and should not be eating for good health, by assembling ten interesting essays that support both sides to the debate.
Foodborne Outbreaks
Part of the At Issue series
This book explores issues related to foodborne outbreaks. It covers the progress made toward reducing foodborne outbreaks. It examines funding for the Federal Food Safety Modernization Act. Readers will examine foodborne outbreaks and the global food system, the risks of consuming imported food, and food suppliers and safety among other issues.
Transgender People
Part of the At Issue series
This book examines the growing transgender rights movement and the issues surrounding the transgender community. Discussion of topics related to increased legal protection, military service, and the many ethical as well as financial issues surrounding health care. It includes primary and secondary sources from a variety of perspectives; eyewitnesses, scientific journals, government officials, and many others. An extensive bibliography and annotated list of relevant organizations to contact offer a gateway to future research.