In this fifth edition, Carter presents case studies in policy making, introducing students to issues and actors involved in the human, political, and international aspects of policy making in the post-Cold War, post 911, and post-Great Recession periods. He aims to promote student critical thinking without telling them what to think as he illustrates the diversity of old and new issues facing U.S. policymakers, and covers contemporary events in a manner that encourages instructors to raise issues confronting today's policymakers. Fifteen chapters are divided into five parts: intervention policy; nuclear security policy; diplomatic policy; economic and trade policy; national and international legal policy. Chapters begin with Before you Begin (questions to keep in mind while reading), an introduction, and a boxed timeline. Annotation ©2014 Ringgold, Inc., Portland, OR (protoview.com)