“A carefully designed presentation of the hot topics in contemporary moral politics.” (*)
The most hotly contested policy issues of our day are those that are framed in moral terms, with one or both sides seeking to use government authority to enforce certain norms of behavior. This popular book examines eight such cases—all updated or new for this edition. The authors approach these contentious issues impartially and analytically, in a way that is intended to foster thoughtful class discussion and responsible political consideration.
The editors' introductory chapter surveys the subfield of morality politics, discusses its salient characteristics, and then presents an analytical framework for understanding how issues that are contested in moral terms differ from those framed in terms of economic self-interest. The topics covered in this edition include updated chapters on abortion; the death penalty; gay rights; hate crimes; religion in public life; gun control; animal rights; and a brand new chapter on global warming.
Each case study presents a history of the issue; outlines the ways the issue has been contested within the American political system; surveys trends in public opinion and mobilization concerning the issue; and considers whether the unfolding of the issue validates the editors' basic premises on morality politics. Each case also includes a guide to books, films, and online resources for further research on the topic.
Endorsements:
“[The editors] have assembled a highly competent array of scholars and put together a carefully designed presentation of the hot topics in contemporary moral politics. My Introduction to Politics course seeks to provide students with an introduction that focuses on issues where values clash. This is the ideal textbook for such a course as well as for many other courses. A particularly notable feature is that the discussions are presented in a fashion that leaves students with substantial information to make their own decisions on the issues at stake rather than seeking to guide their opinions down the channel of thought of the authors.” — Gary L. Maris, Stetson University (*)
“If you want to treat social issues in your public policy course, this updated version is an excellent choice. Students will readily comprehend and debate gun control, gay rights, affirmative action and the other issues covered. Each chapter in this lively, provocative book contains a wealth of solid and accessible information on problems, polities, and policies of its issue area. This edition is better than ever.” — James Anderson, Texas A&M University