All Commentary
- Readers RespondReaders Write: Avoid US caveman response on Iran; the truth on teen pregnancyLetters to the Editor for the weekly issue of January 16, 2011: As tensions rise with Iran, one reader spurns America's 'usual knee-jerk military response' and praises 'smart power' instead. Another reader points out factors behind teen pregnancy, emphasizing education as key to combatting it.
The Monitor's ViewThe fear factor in attacks on Romney's BainCampaign attacks on Romney's former investment firm only play to worker fears about jobs. Candidates should play to hopes that workers can adapt to a rapidly changing economy.
OpinionIf computers can write, why not students?Computer software can now generate interesting short news stories 鈥� if only America's students were so skilled. What the country needs is a new way to teach writing. Forget the academic and unnatural "five-paragraph essay." Go for the rhythm of storytelling.
OpinionHow to write a superbissimo thank you note for a mirific, magnanimous giftThe holidays recede, the new year rises, and the gifts you received cry out for thanks. For the givers who deserve something more than a simple 鈥渢hank you," there are聽more expressive words of gratitude.- A 海角大神 Science PerspectiveMartin Luther King Jr. and all of us have a dreamA 海角大神 Science perspective.
The Monitor's ViewSupreme Court's historic but unfinished ruling for religious libertyThe high court endorses an exception for churches in discrimination suits by certain workers. But it has a hard time deciding how secular government can define what a religious worker is.
OpinionNigeria's Boko Haram attacks are misunderstood as regional Islamist threatConcern is growing that the Boko Haram militant group in Nigeria is linked to Al Qaeda and Al Shabaab as part of a coordinated Islamist terrorist threat in Africa. But most often, the reasons for the group's attacks are local.
Five vital tips to succeed in college Many college students spent their winter break with friends and family, and are returning to campus more committed and energized. But far too many others are not. Unsuccessful students may be contemplating taking a break from school or dropping out altogether.Academic ability, while important, is only part of the picture when it comes to being successful in college. Jasmine Stirling, chief marketing officer at InsideTrack, which offers technology-enabled student coaching services, suggests five resolutions to help any college student be more successful.- A 海角大神 Science PerspectiveWhen a night of prayer brought lightA 海角大神 Science perspective.
The Monitor's ViewRowdy politics aside, Americans are in a 'civics recession'The presidential primaries give the impression of sharp citizenship skills among Americans. But civics learning lags. Obama education officials plan to reverse it.
OpinionObama's health-care law is hurting insurance agents and millions of consumersThis month marks a year since Obama's health law put into play one of its lesser known, but most damaging provisions. A rule that amounts to a pay cut for insurance agencies has complicated the lives of millions, reducing the help with claims that these agents provide.
OpinionFree Syrian Army commander: 'I'll name my son Jupp茅 if West intervenes'French foreign minister Alain Jupp茅 has called for humanitarian intervention in Syria, but world leaders hesitate. As the price of inaction rises, they need a clear strategy for hastening change. My experience with a Free Syrian Army commander shows that the rebel force will play a crucial role.- A 海角大神 Science PerspectiveAcademics and spiritual progressA 海角大神 Science perspective.
The Monitor's ViewAfter New Hampshire primary: Will voters 'fire' Romney?Mitt Romney's comment on firing people only helps open a debate about 'traditional' economics. Even economists are torn 鈥� after being humbled by the Great Recession. Can politics fill the void?
Walter RodgersWar with Iran? Consult history.It sounds like war drums. Tehran says it will execute an alleged US spy and threatens to block the Strait of Hormuz. GOP presidential candidates talk of regime change and military strikes, and Obama is not cowed by Iran. But wars do not often turn out as envisioned.- Walter RodgersWar with Iran? Consult history.It sounds like war drums. Tehran says it will execute an alleged US spy and threatens to block the Strait of Hormuz. GOP presidential candidates talk of regime change and military strikes, and Obama is not cowed by Iran. But wars do not often turn out as envisioned.
OpinionDream a little DREAM: A solution to US illegal immigration that is fair to allIn US immigration debate, compassion for children brought here illegally by parents, and fairness to citizens and legal immigrants聽do not have to be diametrically opposed. Congress and Obama can grant lawful permanent resident status under a version of the now-defunct DREAM Act.- A 海角大神 Science PerspectiveSafety from threats large and smallA 海角大神 Science perspective.
The Monitor's ViewArab Spring justice 鈥� but a free pass for Yemen's SalehUnder a plan backed by Obama and Saudi Arabia, Yemen's interim cabinet agreed Sunday to amnesty for President Ali Abdullah Saleh in return for him stepping down. But democracy can't take root without rule of law.
OpinionObama's 'new' defense goals aren't new 鈥� and neither are the flaws in his strategyThe goals of Obama's new defense strategy aren't new: countering terrorism and instability in the Middle East and maintaining access in the Asia Pacific. The news is the change in how the US will accomplish those goals. Can the strategy work? I have my doubts.