Volatile Places was written to provide both students and faculty with a case study approach to the investigation of community and environmental controversies. Key Features:Case Studies in every chapter: creates a dramatic and telling story around certain features of the controversy. The case studies are written to capture studentsÆ attention. Making Connections with previous chapters: students and instructors are encouraged to read and discuss how the current discussion links to previous discussions creating a strong sense for the integrated approach to the study of community and environmental controversies. Adding to the Portfolio: a portfolio was created for each chapter that both summarizes material and provides questions that lead students into thoughtful encounters with key concepts. Concept and Theory Boxes: Ideas and theories introduced, but not elaborated on, in the text are given a more thorough and concise treatment in the boxes.