Foreword : new dimensions in policy and politicsIntroduction : social regulations and the policy process1Abortion : pro-choice versus pro-life32Affirmative action : minority rights or reverse discrimination?363Animal rights : subordinate or equal species?654Death penalty : just punishment or legalized homicide?895Gay rights : lifestyle or immorality?1216God or country : debating religion in public life1457Gun control : constitutional mandate or myth?1678Hate crimes : protected prejudice or punishable motive?1969Pornography : freedom of expression or sexual degradation?217