Designed to facilitate research, preparation, and presentation of arguments for the national debate topic, this manual summarizes trends in poverty over the past 24 years, examines reasons for changes in the rate of poverty, discusses demographic characteristics of the poverty population, and analyzes methods used to calculate the number of poor…

College graduates face the contradictory and inconsistent beliefs of a society that seems to be struggling between a desire to either degrade or enhance the dignity of man. Amid all the current mechanical marvels there exists social ills of nightmare proportions. In the turmoil to find solutions to the many problems many have lost sight of the…

Discusses and expands upon arguments and ideas set forth in Michael Lind's book, "The Next American Nation." Lind questions cherished assumptions of both conservatives and liberals. He supports government activism promoting a high degree of social and economic equality but questions the philosophy and efficacy of racial identity…

Reviews the making of the documentary, "Talk to Me: Americans in Conversation," and expands on some of the major themes. Filmmaker Andrea Simon interviewed people from all walks of life in an attempt to ascertain the defining characteristics of the nation. Includes a national listing of related events. (MJP)