Human Space

Americans are constantly debating issues of space: the space we are, the space we occupy, and the way we treat others in or close to our spaces. The exploration of these ideas is the core of this book. The author argues that human beings, as spatial entities, are very adept at manipulating and using space. In the process, we often intrude on the space of others and ignore our impact on them. For example, the founders of the United States sought to safeguard the right of freedom of speech, but did not offer ways to defend ourselves against abuses of such rights. The book considers issues such as the balance between an individual's right to smoke and another's right not to be affected by that activity. The discussion offers implications for education, children's and women's issues, environmental issues, minority and ethnic concerns, and human rights.

PETER W. PETSCHAUER is Professor of History at Appalachian State University in North Carolina. He is the author of three other books and many articles in the field of history.