Provides both sides of the divisive argument surrounding abortion. Also includes information on the number and types of abortions performed in the United States, abortion clinics, teen pregnancy and abortion, views of abortion from around the world, religious thoughts on abortion, and legal rulings pertaining to abortion.

Areas covered include an overview of American education; primary, elementary, and secondary schools; public versus private schooling; special education; education of gifted children; testing and achievement of students; national education goals; and "at-risk" students. Discusses colleges and universities; issues such as home schooling, school choice, and vouchers; trends in teacher supply and demand; and public opinions about education.

Explores the role of sports in American society. Covers participation and attendance at sporting events; the sports industry; illegal gambling and performance-enhancing drugs; and student athletes.

Explores the lives of women in American society. Includes information on women's demographic trends, educational achievements, employment, financial status, parental responsibilities, political roles, victimization, and health issues.

Examines various trends in careers and occupations in America. Provides the latest information on what Americans do for a living, how much they earn, how they find work, and what factors influence these key issues.

Examines how Americans deal with death, with a particular focus on the highly charged political and moral issues of living wills, life-sustaining treatments, end-of-life care funding, and physician assisted suicide.

Discusses what has been done to protect endangered species in the United States and around the world, and examines the debate over what future actions are warranted.

Presents in-depth information on how casino gambling, sports gambling, lotteries, and Internet gambling work, provides up-to-date financial data for each, and discusses the effects of these and other gambling activities on the communities in which they take place. Also discussed are American attitudes toward gambling.