Victor Valley College  
 
July 19, 2008

Library Home
Library Catalog
Article Databases
Internet Resources
Other Libraries
Research Tools
Library Information
Library news and events

 

Hot Topics

The information below can assist you with choosing a controversial topic and finding articles presenting both sides of an issue. This is a good starting point that will provide you with background information on a topic and help you to narrow your focus to one or two issues for your paper. Once you have identified the issues, you will be equipped to begin selecting articles from databases (Infotrac, NewsBank, etc.) and information from books.

 
Databases
 
Books & Periodicals
Return to Top

Taking Sides
This is a series of volumes, each containing issues within a particular subject area: Bioethics, Education, Politics, Law, Psychology, etc. Each issue contains a background introduction, preceded by two opposing argumentative articles, and a postscript summary at the end. (Located in the Index-Reference section near the Reference Desk.)

Opposing Viewpoints
A series of volumes that in part makes up the content of the Opposing Viewpoints Resource Center database described above. Each volume focuses on a broad controversial topic (Gun Control, Hate Groups, Pornography, etc.) and includes pro and con articles on specific issues within the topic. (Located in the library stacks.)

Information Plus
A good series for background and statistical information on a variety of contemporary social issues including Abortion, Capital Punishment, Immigration, and many more. Each volume compiles current and historical information taken from court decisions, public laws, public opinion polls, and statistical tables and charts. (Current editions are located in the Index-Reference section near the Reference Desk. Past editions are available in the library stacks.)

Congressional Digest
A monthly nonpartisan publication that presents analysis and debate on important public policy issues facing the U.S. Congress. Each month is devoted to a single controversial topic (Welfare Reform, School Prayer, Chemical Weapons, etc.) giving an overview and legislative background, followed by pro and con position papers from members of Congress. (Located in the Periodicals Department.)

CQ Researcher
The print version of the weekly magazine that is also available online and described above under "Databases." (Located in the Periodicals Department.)

Encyclopedia of Social Issues
A six volume encyclopedia that provides 1-2 page articles on hundreds of contemporary social issues. (Located in the Reference collection: Ref. HN 57 E59 1997.)

 
Web Sites
Return to top

Social Issues
The Social Issue Web page is part of the Multnomah County Library (Oregon) "Homework Center". Although its stated audience is middle school students, the site is appropriate for any researcher. Each issue contains links to "megasites," followed by sites with pro and con arguments.Return to top



Home | Library Catalog | Databases | Internet Resources | Other Libraries | Research Tools | Information | News

Questions, Suggestions, Comments?
Last Modified: June 02, 2008


Athletics | About Our Campus | Accreditation   | Bookstore | Campus Life  | College Catalogs  | College General Information (pdf) | College Maps |  Events of Community  | Job Openings | High Desert Higher Education Center |  Institutional Research | Library | President's Office | Employee Services |   VVC Foundation | Contact Webmaster
All Content © 2008 Victor Valley Community College  All rights reserved.
18422 Bear Valley Rd. • Victorville, CA 92395-4271•           (760) 245-4271

Student Services Admissions & Records Departments & Offices Faculty & Staff Directory VVC Home Page Schedule of Classes