"Taking Sides volumes present current controversial issues in a debate-style format designed to stimulate student interest and develop critical thinking skills. Each issue is thoughtfully framed with "Learning Outcomes, " an "Issue Summary, " an "Introduction, " and an "Exploring the Issue" section featuring "Critical Thinking and Reflection, Is There Common Ground?, " and "Additional Resources." Taking Sides readers also offer a "Topic Guide" and an annotated listing of "Internet References" for further consideration of the issues. An online Instructor's Resource Guide with testing material is available for each volume. "Using Taking Sides in the Classroom" is also an excellent instructor resource."
"[The book] is a debate-style reader designed to introduce students to controversies in psychology. The readings, which represent the arguments of leading psychologists and commentators, reflect a variety of viewpoints and have been selected for their liveliness and substance and because of their value in a debate framework. For each issue, the editor provides a concise introduction and challenge questions. The introduction sets the stage for the debate as it is argued in the "yes" and "no" readings, and the challenge questions provoke further examinations of the issue. By requiring students to analyze opposing viewpoints and reach considered judgments, [the book] actively develops students' critical thinking skills.--P. [4] of cover."