Pro & Con: Controversial Topics: Resources

Finding material to support arguments for or against a hot topic can be difficult. Check here for recommended databases and web sites, plus targeted search strategies..

Recommended Library Databases

CQ Researcher This link opens in a new window
CQ Researcher is a magazine that tackles a different topic of public debate each week; includes background, summary of issues, a pro/con argument, and links to further resources. Stuck for a paper idea? Browse by topic or date.
Global Newsstream (formerly ProQuest Newsstand) This link opens in a new window
Looking for news and current info? Try this large newspaper database.
Alt-PressWatch This link opens in a new window
Alt-PressWatch includes news from the "alternative press," outside the mainstream media.
Field Polls: Search This link opens in a new window
Public opinion polls specific to California.
Salem Press This link opens in a new window
Small collection of reference books; includes "The Reference Shelf" series on controversial topics.
Gun Regulation and Legislation in America This link opens in a new window
From Hein Online, this archival database brings together primary and secondary sources on the history of gun control in the United States.

More Useful Info

Statistical Data
by Stacy Magedanz Last Updated Nov 21, 2023 141 views this year

Looking for statistics that shed light on a problem or issue? Check here for major statistical resources.

Web Sites

ProCon.org
Nonpartisan background information about topics of public debate.
Public Agenda Online
Nonpartisan information about politics, political issues, and public policy.
FactCheck.org
Site devoted to checking claims made by politicians and political ads.
Politifact
Like FactCheck.org, this award-winning site checks claims made by politicians and political ads; features the "Truth-O-Meter."

Books in Pfau Library: Arguments For & Against

Books on various controversial topics, presenting pro and con viewpoints.

Books in Pfau Library: Background & Summaries

Books on current topics of public debate, offering an overview of the issues.

"Contemporary World Issues" series
"Information Series on Current Topics"
This series includes lots of good statistics!
"The Reference Shelf" series