No area of public policymaking is more hotly debated than the use of government authority to enforce certain standards of behavior in areas of moral controversy. Now thoroughly revised and updated, this collection examines a variety of such policy areas - ranging from abortion and affirmative action to gay rights - including two new chapters on animal rights and hate crimes. In discussing each policy area the book examines relevant issues and arguments, as well as policy shifts over time, and considers the roles of key political and institutional actors in policymaking. This new edition is written in an accessible style that is sure to spark classroom discussion and further research.

Foreword: New Dimensions in Policy and Politics Theodore J. Lowi

Introduction: Moral Conflicts and the Policy Process Raymond Tatalovich and Byron W. Daynes

1. Abortion: Pro-Choice Versus Pro-Life Ruth Ann Strickland

2. Death Penalty: Just Punishment or Legalized Homicide? Brent S. Steel and Mary Ann E. Steger

3. Gay Rights: Nature or Nurture? Margaret E. Ellis and Nina Therese Kasniunas

4. Hate Crimes: Protected Prejudice or Punishable Motive? Scott Yenor and Jon Schaff

5. God and Country: Debating Religion in Public Life Ted G. Jelen

6. Gun Control: Constitutional Mandate or Myth? Robert J. Spitzer

7. Global Warming: Environmental Crisis or Scientific Hoax? Byron W. Daynes and Glen Sussman

8. Animal Rights: Subordinate or Equal Species? Stephanie A. Slocum-Schaffer

Raymond Tatalovich, Byron W. Daynes, Theodore J. Lowi