Abortion in the United States: A Reference Handbook

This work is a balanced presentation of the pro-life/pro-choice controversy, showing all aspects of the debate and why it is so difficult to resolve. It is the most explosive flashpoint in American politics, a polarizing issue in campaigns, Congressional debates, court cases, and cultural confrontations. Although abortion is a right currently guaranteed by the Constitution as interpreted by the Supreme Court, it is a right continually challenged in cases across the country. This work offers a balanced, objective look at the ultimate "wedge" issue in American culture. This volume offers a revealing history of abortion politics and policy from the 1800s to Roe v. Wade to the present, with clear analyses of disputes such as public funding for abortion, the status of the fetus, contraception, abortion as a "litmus test" for candidates and judicial nominees, and more.

A separate chapter looks at abortion politics throughout the world and places the United States in a global context. Biographies of major players, extensive data and documents, and a bibliography of important resources make this an essential resource on one of the most controversial topics in our national dialog.