Taking Sides: Clashing Views on Controversial Political Issues

This debate-style reader is designed to introduce students to controversies in politics. The readings represent the arguments of major political writers such as Bill Kristol, Nat Hentoff, and Charles Krauthammer. Issues include: "Are Tax Cuts Good for America?," “Was the Invasion of Iraq Justified?," "Does the Patriot Act Abridge Essential Freedoms?," and "Must America Exercise World Leadership?" The purpose of this volume is to develop critical thinking skills by requiring students to analyze opposing viewpoints and reach considered judgments. The Taking Sides Series is supported by the student website, Dushkin Online (www.dushkin.com/online/), where study tips and links to related websites can be found.