Taking Sides: Clashing Views in Social Psychology

Taking Sides: Social Psychology, Third Edition, is a debate-style reader designed to introduce students to controversies in social psychology. The readings, which represent the arguments of leading psychologists and commentators, reflect opposing positions and have been selected for their liveliness and substance and because of their value in a debate framework.

For each issue, the editor provides a concise introduction and challenge questions. The introduction sets the stage for the debate as it is argued in the "yes" and "no" readings. The challenge questions provoke further examination of the issue. The editor also provides additional suggested readings on the controversial issue under discussion.

By requiring students to analyze contradictory positions and reach considered judgments, Taking Sides actively develops students' critical thinking skills. It is this development of critical thinking skills that is the ultimate purpose of each of the volumes in the widely acclaimed Taking Sides program.