Using the tried-and-true approach of the Current Controversies series, this title compiles essays and articles that highlight the economic, ethical, political, racial, and religious dimensions of suicide. The first chapter debates the morality of suicide, offering perspectives on suicide bombers, medical ethics, and religious beliefs. In one entry, an objectivist philosopher argues that individuals have the right to take their own lives. Contributing factors are considered by writers in the second chapter, while the third debates whether physicians should assist terminally ill patients who wish to end their lives. Oddly, none of the selections mention the case of Dr. Jack Kevorkian. The topic of suicide prevention concludes. Readers struggling with suicidal thoughts will find more direct help in books such as Living with Depression (2007), in the Teen's Guides series, but debaters and researchers will appreciate this title's diverse collection of primary sources, as well as the entries' concise introductions and the appended bibliography and directory of organizations.