Ethical Debates

This book offers a balanced debate on the issue of same-sex marriage. With same-sex marriage being adopted in more states, this book will inform and educate readers about the changing nature of the institution of marriage.

Real-life case studies on issues surrounding the debate on privacy and surveillance highlight this timely and intriguing topic. Changes in surveillance techniques and their effects since the 9/11 terrorist attacks are thoroughly explained in this informative volume. Privacy in the home, at school and work, in the media, and on the street are explored. Sidebars include viewpoints on rights issues from experts, and fact boxes and summary points in each chapter help readers glean essential details.

Readers learn about real-life case studies involving stem cell research, the sources of stem cells, ethical issues surrounding the use of stem cells, and stem cells' promising possibilities for medical use in bone marrow transplants, treating leukemia, and rebuilding injured organs. Legal issues and rulings around the world are also examined. The volume includes sidebars that provide expert viewpoints on the stem cell research debate, as well as fact boxes and summary boxes that highlight the key points in each chapter.

Many countries have laws about freedom of information, which is a citizen's right to access information from the government. A relatively recent development historically, today many people believe that freedom of information is a basic right of citizenship. Supporters of freedom of information say it provides one of the essential checks and balances on government, making government open, accountable, and reducing corruption. However, most countries' laws contain limits on disclosure, and there are many debates about where the lines should be drawn. Readers get explanations of how freedom of information laws work and how they have been framed in different countries. Chapters explore the debate about how these laws should be applied so that they work well for both government officials and the public.

Advertising, which aims to influence the thinking and behavior of consumers around the world, is a multibillion-dollar industry. People are exposed to many different forms of advertising every day, including TV and radio commercials, newspaper and magazine ads, posters and billboards, direct mail, and Internet ads. Readers learn how advertising works, including common techniques and approaches, and explore the debate about advertising's effects on society. Real-life case studies, fact boxes, and opinion panels highlight some of the most heated issues in the debate. These include questions about truth in advertising, promoting stereotypes, advertising to children, and collecting information about people's tastes, habits, and interests online.