Hate Groups (Opposing Viewpoints Digests)

The Opposing Viewpoints series is a good series for students and others who are working on some of the hot button issues of today. Each volume contains essays and articles that explore the issues thoroughly from several different angles. Sometimes there are two clear sides, but sometimes it is a bit more nuanced. This particular volume deals with Hate Groups. The issues explored within the volume include the controversy over whether or not certain groups promote hate and violence, and whether or not they constitute a problem. Hate groups are usually tied to issues of free speech, among other rights, and the pros and cons of this as well as internet presence is explored. Finally, the issue of hate crime laws is covered, both pro and con, as well as the constitutional status of penalty enhancement laws due to hate crime violations. Overall, this is a very good beginners book to the issue. It helps to set the guidelines for debate and discussion. There is an appendix with facts about hate groups, documents that pertain to the issue, and further reading suggestions. The author, Tamara Roleff, is a writer and former newspaper reporter, and editor of several texts for Greenhaven Press.