This volume lets readers realize for themselves that a "sociological imagination" can help them understand the burning questions of today's society, and that this kind of thinking is within their grasp. It illustrates how understanding society means engaging with its issues. The book consists of a series of debates in which multiple sides of today's hottest topics are examined: Is the environment improving? Is religion dead? Do poor people create their own poverty? Should marijuana be legalized? Is ethnic nationalism destructive? Revealing how much sociology has to contribute to our understanding of these topics, it encourages readers to Think Twice...then think again. KEY TOPICS: The essays and debates presented here examine the issues surrounding the individual and society, social differences, social institutions and social change. MARKET: For anyone interested in a balanced view of many of the most crucial issues and dilemmas in our society and our earth.