Books in the Opposing Viewpoints Series present debates about current issues that can be used to teach critical reading and thinking skills. The varied opinions in each book examine different aspects of a single issue. The topics covered in this volume explore the racial and ethnic tensions that concern many Americans today. The racial divide exemplified in reaction to the O. J. Simpson verdict has brought about a re-examination of race in the United States. Many people see that America is divided by ethnic and minority interests and the competition between groups, while others argue that interracial conflicts are less serious. The 26 viewpoints in this collection present competing views about these issues and are divided into the following chapters: (1) "Should America's Racial Differences Be Emphasized?"; (2) "Is Racism To Blame for Blacks' Lack of Success?"; (3) "Will Immigration Lead to an Interracial Crisis?"; (4) "How Has Affirmative Action Affected Race Relations?"; and (5) "How Should Society Treat Interracial Families?" A list of related periodicals follows each chapter. (Contains 11 figures, a list of 20 resource organizations, and 46 references.) (SLD)