Women's Roles and Statuses the World Over stands alone in the unique contribution it makes to the field of women's rights. Based solely on statistics and empirical data as opposed to opinion, authors Stephanie Hepburn and Rita Simon have crafted an important contribution to the study of women in society by comparing women's position in society within 26 nations throughout the world. This distinctive work addresses the status of women in the areas of education, work force, marriage and divorce, the Constitution, abortion and contraceptives, public office, military service, and health care. The countries selected reflect a representative pool of the world's cultures, religions, traditions, races, laws, and politics. Hepburn and Simon present the weaknesses, strengths, and progress or digression of each of the selected nations, painting a clear picture of how much more progress must occur in order to set men and women on equal footing. Women's Roles and Statuses the World Over is intended to serve scholars and general audiences alike as a handbook providing empirical data and comprehensive references on the social issues, problems, and practices that affect women today.