Contentious issues such as abortion and the death penalty touch on people’s deeply held personal and political beliefs. But these issues have also been tested many times in the courts. Often these court decisions reflect societal climate and offer a fascinating way to trace changing trends. < P>This anthology series captures the passion and depth of these debates and provides an ideal resource for research on social issues. Each volume focuses on a specific issue and examines how the courts have helped to shape that issue through their rulings. Primary sources include the text of court rulings and dissenting opinions as well as contemporaneous analysis and opinion on the rulings. Secondary sources provide retrospective evaluation of the courts’ decisions and their legacies. This engaging series offers a wealth of information on both the historical and contemporary aspects of the most pressing issues confronting society. Included are: < ul> < li> Annotated tables of contents provide easy reference< li> Comprehensive indexes facilitate research< li> In-depth introductions and chapter prefaces offer essential context< li> Bibliographies provide avenues for additional research< li> Lists of organizations to contact offer additional sources of information< /uI>