Issues & Controversies’ “Bill of Rights in Debate” Gets Amended

The U.S. Constitution’s Bill of Rights consists of just 10 sentences—some of which are fairly vague—and Americans have debated their meaning and interpretation for more than 200 years. Understanding how the Bill of Rights shapes debate in American society is critical to understanding who we are as a nation and is one of the core missions of the Issues & Controversies. As such, Issues & Controversies features a special section devoted to those 10 sentences. The “Bill of Rights in Debate” section deepens understanding of the Constitution in contemporary life by linking Issues & Controversies articles directly to constitutional rights.

“Bill of Rights in Debate” Now Has New Intro and Linked Articles

The introduction to “Bill of Rights in Debate” has just been thoroughly rewritten, providing a brief history and overview of the Bill of Rights and how the first 10 amendments to the U.S. Constitution have shaped—and continue to shape—debates and conflicts in the United States. Many of the pro/con articles in Issues & Controversies focus on matters relating to the Bill of Rights, and this revised feature helps users see the connections between the Constitution and the issues they’re researching.

Dozens of new and updated articles that invoke or reference the Bill of Rights are highlighted and linked, including:

  • Capital Punishment
  • Childhood Obesity
  • Climate Change
  • DNA Evidence
  • Gun Control
  • Hate Crimes
  • Homelessness
  • Immigration Policy
  • Mindfulness in the Classroom
  • Police Brutality and Reform
  • Politics in Sports
  • Red Flag Laws
  • Religious Freedom Laws
  • School Uniforms

What Is Issues & Controversies?

Issues & Controversies is a multimedia solution that helps students understand contemporary issues, assess different perspectives, distinguish fact from opinion, reach their own conclusions, and build critical thinking and writing skills. It features balanced pro/con articles and primary sources for current events, civics instruction, and class discussion.

Issues & ControversiesHigher EducationK-12
September 13, 2021