Research which makes possible a quantification of the size, composition, and growth of the underclass is discussed. Trends in the quality of life and the growth of the underclass are presented. (CW)

Traces the decline in United States productivity growth since the late 1960's. Suggests that the failure to innovate, changing demographics, and disruptions to the economy (including oil price increases and inflation) are major contributors to the decline. Argues that American living standards will stagnate unless this trend is reversed. (TW)

Documents history of Lowell, Massachusetts, from the careful planning of town, the recruitment of farm family daughters into the labor force, the demise of the town, and Lowell's subsequent regeneration as a high technology center in the 1970s and 1980s. Suggests that the study of this town's history can illuminate the study of current U.S. urban…

As of 1985 the population of persons aged 65 or over in the United States numbered 28.5 million. By the year 2000, persons in the 65+ age group are expected to represent 13 percent of the population, and this percentage may climb to 21.2 percent by 2030. In 1985, older men were twice as likely to be married as older women. Sixty-seven percent of…

This teaching guide accompanies "The Environmental Data Book," published by the World Bank. Environmental and development statistics are presented for discussion and analysis. Indicators of environmental quality and economic development are defined with accompanying charts and maps. Activities accompany each lesson, along with a worksheet at the…