The contributions in the first chapter discuss whether or not violence is a serious and increasing problem in American society, caused by America's history, the criminal justice system, or economic and racial injustice. Strategies for reducing drug-related violence include enhancing law enforcement, upholding drug laws, and conducting a war on drugs in black neighborhoods; other articles oppose each of these strategies. The chapter on family violence argues for and against the propositions that traditional values, police actions, and the legal system contribute to wife and child abuse. Articles pertaining to teenaged violence argue that contributing factors may or may not include the juvenile justice system, television, poverty, family breakdown, lack of morality, and restrictive gender roles. Serial killers may be motivated by painful childhood experiences, American culture, brain disorders, or involvement in satanic cults. The final chapter, on policies to reduce violence, takes opposing viewpoints on the effectiveness of passing gun control legislation, imprisoning more criminals, and enhancing social programs.