Rather than simply present information on timely, controversial topics, the titles in the Thinking Critically series allow students to synthesize information and form their own opinions through rational debate. Each book opens with an introduction to the topic and some of the controversies surrounding it in the U.S. Subsequent chapters provide opposing viewpoints on four controversial issues. Reliable research sources, numerous quotes, colorful charts and graphs, and guided questions help frame the debate on both sides. Biofuels contemplates whether this alternative fuel source should be supported by the U.S. government, really does reduce greenhouse gas emissions, is essential for national security, and could threaten global food production. Cyberbullying considers whether this form of harassment is a serious problem and is worse than traditional bullying, as well as how involved schools should be when bullying takes place off campus, and what involvement law enforcement should have in cyberbullying cases. Mass Shootings deliberates whether this form of violence is a serious problem, can be reduced through stricter gun control and improvements in the mental health care system, and might be influenced by violent video games. Copious back matter, including source notes, supplemental facts, related organizations and websites, and a bibliography, provide further research avenues.
