Includes bibliographical references and index.

Is world population growth out of control? -- Should the international community attempt to curb population growth in the developing world? -- Does population growth significantly harm the Earth's quality of life? -- Will declining population growth rates in the developed world lead to major problems? -- Is environmental degradation worsening? -- Should the world continue to rely on oil as a major source of energy? -- Will the world be able to feed itself in the foreseeable future? -- Is global environmental stress caused primarily by increased resource consumption rather than population growth? -- Is the earth getting warmer? -- Is the threat of a global water shortage real? -- Is the global community responding well to the plight of refugees and displaced persons? -- Should immigration to the United States and other developed countries be curtailed? -- Is there a global brain drain? Is globalization a positive development for the world community? -- Will the digital/computer world lead to greater individual freedom? -- Is the globalization of American culture a positive development? -- Is biological and chemical terrorism the next grave threat to the world community -- Is a nuclear terrorist attack on America likely? -- Is there a military solution to terrorism? -- Are civil liberties likely to be compromised in the war against terrorism? -- Are cultural and ethnic conflicts the defining dimensions of twenty-first century war?

The Taking Sides series is a debate-style reader designed to introduce students to current global controversies and world issues. The readings, which represent the arguments of leading political scientists, social commentators, and experts in the field, reflect a variety of viewpoints, and are presented in pro/con format. Dushkin Online is a student Web site designed to support Taking Sides titles. (www.dushkin.com/online/)