Globalization

VOYA - Beth Andersen

In this new series, the publisher states that Introducing Issues with Opposing Viewpoints serves as an entree to the Opposing Viewpoints concept. Each volume's chapters include thoughtful essays representing both perspectives and are enhanced by colorful charts, graphs, photos, and "Fast Fact" boxes that often contain more current data than the actual articles. At the end of each chapter is a box labeled "Evaluating the Authors'/Author's Arguments," helping to further frame the discussion for students. Each book concludes with a "Facts About..." section, as well as organizations to contact and further reading. A look at two of the books in the series demonstrates the challenges of producing books that are current with the fast-changing issues of the day. In Globalization, the articles are three to four years old. While this is good for a historical perspective, only the "Fast Fact" boxes touch on the dramatic global financial crisis that blew up in 2008 and continues to this day, thus dating many of the ideas expressed in this volume, which has such provocative chapter titles as "Globalization Increases Ethical Outcomes and Improves Moral Character" and "Globalization Allows Corrupt Countries to Become More Corrupt." Health Care is more current, capturing the issues of the health care reform that were so hotly debated before passage of the bill earlier this year. Two of the more fascinating sections debate whether health care is a right or a service. Students will also get a good taste of those who support insurance and pharmaceutical companies' roles in the delivery of health care vs. those who strongly feel that the for-profit system works to the detriment of people's access to health care. Contributors to the articles have a wide range of credentials. Some write for conservative journals or work for conservative think tanks. Others are columnists for mainstream media publications or work for progressive think tanks. Many are authors and professors, and a few are international contributors. Other volumes in the series include National Security, Iran, Women's Rights, Human Rights, Organic Food and Farming, and War. Reviewer: Beth Andersen