Description
Book SynopsisThe book is a unique and innovative assembly of 14 originally written cases on controversial topics in American government and politics. It is intended to engage students in active learning through discussion, debate and participation in the introductory American Government course.
Trade ReviewYou Decide! is an interactive text in the good old-fashioned sense, presenting the facts and the arguments of both sides of current issues and offering challenging questions to the reader. Reading it as it is presented in manageable chunks, issue by issue, eliminates any excuse to avoid the public debate. Highly recommended. -- Nancy Brown Speckmann, San Diego State University and Grossmont College
Ideal for classroom use. Employs a highly effective pedagogical framework that includes concise overviews, case studies, and policy alternatives of relevant political issues in American politics. This volume will both inform and critically engage the student. -- Joseph R. Fornieri, Rochester Institute of Technology
You Decide brings institutional and public policy issues to life with interesting narratives that frame issues of the day and incisive questions that are sure to provoke classroom debate. This expanded and revised second edition promises to engage students of politics in addressing some of the most challenging topics in U.S. politics today. -- Michael J. Goff,, Loyola College in Maryland
Table of ContentsChapter 1 The Constitution: Is Original Intent the Proper Model for Constitutional Interpretation? Chapter 2 Federalism: Shoud Undocumented Students Quaify for In-State Tuition Benefits from Pubic Colleges and Universities? Chapter 3 Civil Liberties: Should Government-Sponsored Prayer Be Allowed in the Public Schools? Chapter 4 Civil Rights: Race-Based Affirmative Action in College Admissions: Keep it, Mend it, or End it? Chapter 5 Political Socialization and Culture: Are Bilingual Programs the Best Way to Teach Students with Limited English Proficiency? Chapter 6 The Media: Should the U.S. media have shown the cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed originally published in a Danish newspaper? Chapter 7 Political Interest Groups: Are School Vouchers a Key to Meaningful Educational Reform? Chapter 8 Political Parties and Campaigns: Is Campaign Reform Needed? Chapter 9 Voting: What is the fairest method of redistricting? Chapter 10 Elections: Is the Electoral College the Best Way to Elect U.S. Presidents? Chapter 11 Congress: Should the Senate Continue the Practice of the Filibuster? Chapter 12 The Presidency: How Limited Should Presidential Power in Wartime? Chapter 13 The Judiciary: Should the case Kelo v. City of New London be revisited? Chapter 14 Foreign Policy: What is the Best Exit Plan for the U.S. in Iraq?
