Reproductive Issues in America: A Reference Handbook

(Hardback)

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Description

A comprehensive and thoughtful analysis of human reproduction issues in the U.S. with emphasis on the ethical and policy implications of cutting-edge reproductive technologies. Human cloning. Stem cell research. Abortion. All of these subjects are surrounded by controversy. But now readers can cut through the usual emotion, misinformation, and distortion-and get a fair and balanced picture of human reproduction issues in the United States. Few subjects are as divisive and partisan as the issues surrounding the propagation of the human species. This thorough examination covers the full scope of the debates and offers an up-to-the-minute survey of the controversial technologies that are at the heart of reproductive rights in the United States. The areas explored range from abortion and sterlization to fetal research and human cloning. The moral, societal and public policy implications of each subject are examined thoroughly, with emphasis on those areas where cutting-edge technology has raced ahead of public policy, thereby creating new concerns for ethicists and policy-makers. Legislative oversight or the freedom to pursue reproductive technologies at any cost, this debate is far from over.

Reviews

"Particularly interesting are topics on abortion statistics and funding, assisted reproduction, cloning and stem cell research, contraception and sterility, alcohol use and HIV in prenant women, and sex education. Readers will appreciate the additional list of references at the end of some of the sections. Valuable glossary and subject index. Highly recommended. All levels." - Choice "Reproductive Issues tackles a broader topic ... A well-developed chronology and biographical sketched are included ... an overview of the subject with pointers to further information ..." - School Library Journal "Provides a factual, unemotional look at the issues ... good starting point for anyone doing research ... Highschoolers, legislators, activists, scholars, and general information seekers would benefit from reading its pages ... This book is a valuable resource and is recommended for high school, public, and academic library collections." - American Reference Books Annual "This book would be appropriate for use in high school, public, and academic libraries for those interested in an introduction to the history, laws, and people involved in reproductive issues." - ARBA

Author Bio

Janna C. Merrick is professor of government and international affairs at the University of South Florida, Tampa, FL. Robert H. Blank is chair of the Department of Public Policy at Brunel University, London, England.