One of a series of booklets on world issues examines the sharpened differences between those nations that have declared sovereignty over parts of Antarctica and those that have not; between those nations that have arbitrarily assumed responsibility for the administration of Antarctica and the smaller, more numerous nations that believe their exclusion is unjustified; and between those who believe that the exploration and ultimate exploitation of Antarctic resources are desirable or inevitable and those who, as scientists or environmentalists, hope that the continent can be protected forever as a world preserve open only to researchers. Chapter one discusses the historical background, the International Geophysical Year, and the conflict over territorial claims. Chapter two examines the Antarctic Treaty. Chapter three discusses the resources of Antarctica, including marine life, minerals, tourism, icebergs as a water supply, disposal of radioactive wastes, cold storage, and alternative energy sources. Chapter four emphasizes the idea that Antarctica and its development is in the interest of all peoples of the world. Chapter five discusses the future of the treaty system. The "Talking It Over" section offers questions for discussion groups and students. The document concludes with a reproduction of the Antarctic Treaty signed December 1, 1959. (RSL)