An argument is presented in this booklet for the formal study of controversial issues and materials in public secondary schools. The democratic ideal of freedom of discussion is cited as justification for this stance. Included in the examination of issues are discussions of: (1) the democratic point of view as it relates to educational goals, (2) the student's right to study controversial topics, (3) guidelines for the evaluation of controversial publications and productions, (4) the role of the teacher in planning and administering curriculum, and (5) suggestions for screening instructional material. Appendixes include further comment on both American and world-wide social values, discussion of school policies and procedures for selection of instructional materials, and a typical formal complaint form for questioned items. (KS)