Aspects of social change among American Indians and in the relationships of Indians to government and the larger society are examined in the collection of articles by 12 political and social scientists. Focusing on recent developments, this look at American Indians today encompasses rapid population growth, urbanization of the Indian population, and impact of the civil rights movement on economic, political, and educational opportunities. Article topics include: economic basis of Indian life--urban/rural trends, Indian development programs; Indian education since 1960--self-determination, goals (assimilation, separation, pluralism); religion--traditional world view, Christianity, neotraditional movements; health care--current programs, innovations for rural/urban needs; Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) activities since 1945 and an assessment of BIA--both covering the journey from termination to self-determination; the Menominee and Kainai tribes--adaptations to white culture, power, and world views, including militancy; legislation and litigation concerning American Indians, 1957-77; Indian Claims Commission; demographic and social trends--population growth, urban migration, language and culture loss, education level; impact of urbanization on American Indians; and integration--increasing acculturation and structural integration between Indians and non-Indians. (RS)