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This work is an authoritative, unbiased research tool for understanding the true dimensions of violent crime in America. Its approach is to fact-check common beliefs, arguments, and talking points about the causes and consequences of violent crime in the USA. By casting a critical eye at claims and counterclaims made across the political spectrum about violent crime and its wider impact on the fabric of American life, Violent Crime in America: Examining the Facts will make readers more discerning consumers of news media as well as more informed citizens.

Coverage is broken down into dozens of question-and-answer entries, each of which fact-checks a prominent claim or belief. These entries are in turn arranged in topical chapters that tackle various facets of violent crime in America, including crime trends and patterns over time; perceptions of violent crime and media coverage; characteristics of offenders and victims; socioeconomic and demographic factors; impact of gun laws and policies; impact of violent entertainment; strategies for prevention; and wider societal impacts.