Part of the Controversial Issues series, this text presents a series of clear and lively debates on current issues in gerontology, authored by leading academic authorities in the field. The text presents a broad overview of issues and questions facing the field, including areas of policy/programs, health, social services, professional and family life, and more. The debates are current and very readable; the text is “user-friendly,” and was designed to stimulate student discussion, debate, as well as critical thinking. The text is a “must” for students considering careers in the field of gerontology. The non-technical, brief and lively format of the debates makes them accessible to all students. Issues covered include whether or not to legalize suicide; whether to reduce Social Security benefits; whether to institute means-testing for Medicare; whether affirmative action programs should be instituted for older persons; and the potential dismantling of the aging services network.