This theoretically balanced text provides the latest research findings and a consistent structure to help students analyze major social problems facing the United States.  The authors present both sides of an argument with a neutral voice and use a "down-to-earth" writing style.

When students complete this text, not only do they gain a sociological understanding of social problems, but also they are able to explore–and evaluate–their own opinions about specific social problems. They will gain a greater awareness of the social forces that shape their orientations to social problems and their perspectives on social life. The ideas in this book, then, can penetrate students’ thinking and give shape to their views of the world.