The question of the future of music in the digital age provokes a level of curiosity that extends beyond the legal, technological, and economic issues and reaches into the realm of existential uncertainty. As the way we listen to music changes, will music itself follow suit? Business Week's media columnist Jon Fine and three audiophile bloggers weigh in.

Conventional wisdom dictates that longer campaigns, combined with incessant media coverage, leads to a phenomenon known as voter fatigue or election fatigue, where the electorate gets so tired of the campaign that they lose interest and stop participating. But does frustration with election overload actually cause less investment in the proceedings or lower turnout at the polls? And is overexposure the only reason for voter fatigue, or are deeper issues – like skepticism and deep-seeded mistrust of politics – also at play?

We're pleased to have Dan Bernath, assistant director of communications for the Marijuana Policy Project, weighing in on our issue of the day: the debate over legalizing marijuana and America's war on drugs. In an illuminating interview, Bernath discusses the victims of current marijuana laws, the other side of medical marijuana research, and Richard Nixon's secret marijuana study. Our posts for the day explore the marijuana and drug policy debates from various angles.

Sex scandals have been a part of American history since its earliest days – from Alexander Hamilton’s illicit affairs to Jefferson’s relationship with slave Sally Hemmings – and they’ve often been a barometer of America’s moral compass as well as an indicator of electoral outcomes. The prostitution scandal currently surrounding New York governor Eliot Spitzer raises many of these questions again. Are a candidate’s sexual indiscretions more outrageous than her abuses of power? Are immoral activities that are not technically illegal less offensive than those that are? And how do such scandals influence elections and the efficacy of governments?

For at least 60 years, the suggestion that Americans are indifferent to intellectualism has been the subject of books, conventional wisdom, and cultural discourse. Studies have shown that Americans are less knowledgeable about the world than citizens of other developed countries, and the argument has been made that in disciplines from politics to education, pragmatism is deemed more worthwhile than an investment in scholarship. Today, as America's perception by the rest of the world becomes a topic of increasing concern, the debate rages on, bringing new questions about the ways in which intellectual capital is measured.

The arrest of notorious weapons dealer Viktor Bout this week put the issue of arms trafficking back on the front page. Whether sanctioned by businesses and governments or done illegally on the black market, the trading of weapons to various parties helps fuel armed conflicts all over the world. While arms trading has helped just causes in many wars, it has also extended violence and suffering in conflict-ridden nations and provided both a means and a source of income for terrorist organizations.

Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez's decision to mobilize troops to the Columbian border in response to Bogota's assassination of a member of the guerilla group FARC has created a diplomatic crisis that many fear could lead to war. Skepticism abounds that Chavez has initiated the imbroglio to distract attention from Venezuela's domestic problems, or indeed to cover up his own ties to FARC. Strained relations between Chavez and many other world leaders only add to fears that this already unsettled region could be headed for a long conflict.

In the debut of a recurring series, we’re proud to present an Issue of the Day on the Future of Hollywood, featuring Emmy Award-winning writer, director and producer, major league baseball announcer and wickedly funny blogger Ken Levine. We talked to Ken about the writers' strike, the impact of the Internet and digital media on the Hollywood system, and the future of film and TV. In the tradition of the Issue of the Day, we’ve also included three informative blog posts on the changing face of the entertainment industry.

After rampant prediction that yesterday's primaries would be decisive, they turned out to be sound and fury signifying more of the same old election cycle hoopla. The long-presumed inevitability of McCain's nomination was confirmed. Clinton's victories in Ohio and Texas give her campaign momentum, but they don't assure her a lead in the delegate count. This non-result could mean a drawn-out, dirty and potentially damaging race for the Democratic nomination.

In recent years there has been a proliferation of significant Chinese artists, as well as a related boom in the Chinese art market. Speculations on the reasons for this phenomenon vary. Many experts believe that economic downturns in the West have stymied traditional American and European art markets, while the boom in the Chinese economy has led to conspicuous cultural consumption in the form of artistic purchases. Others have suggested that the centers of artistic innovation are shifting Eastward. The development leads the art world to ask where the new centers of artistic innovation and commerce will move in the future.

"Academic Steroids" has become a new buzzword, referring to the practice of high school and college students abusing drugs such as Adderall and Ritalin (traditionally used to treat attention deficit disorders) to help them study more intensely and efficiently. This phenomenon raises questions about the pressure placed on American students to excel, and how we measure a student's success. It also forces us to examine the standards of academic ethics and integrity, fairness and morality within academia, and rising incidences of drug abuse amongst students.

The intersection of the organic and gourmet trends has offered farms a new means of staying afloat in the world of agribusiness. Smaller farms, who can't compete with larger rivals in terms of cost or volume of production, are turning their resources to selling luxury and organic produce, which are ever more popular in the US. The story is an interesting example of how small businesses adapt to a changing marketplace.

Though primary season isn’t over, speculation about vice presidential nominees has already begun. For Beltway insiders and political junkies alike, speculation about running mate picks is a time-honored tradition. What characteristics make a desirable vice presidential nominee? How much can a running mate help or hinder a campaign? Debate about the best and most likely choices for the remaining candidates is varied and lively.

France has always maintained a military presence in its former African colonies, but President Sarkozy's announcement that it will open a base in the United Arab Emirates was the most recent in a series of shifts in the country's foreign defense policies. By all accounts, Sarkozy's methods more closely resemble the hard power approach of the US than the very diplomatic European Union. This shift in defense strategy may undermine plans for a European defense force but it will certainly strengthen the US-Franco relationship.

What is the most effective form of sex education? Abstinence-only education programs have become the norm in much of America. Its proponents argue that abstinence is the only sure-fire way to prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. Supporters of comprehensive sex education counter that introducing youth to safe sex practices is a more effective method of encouraging sexual responsibility among teenagers. This hotly contested issue emphasizes debates over sex and morality that divide society.

In July 2007, a Russian expedition planted a flag in the Lomonosov Ridge, a mineral-rich territory beneath the Arctic Ocean. This led to an international scramble for rights to underwater territories in the Arctic. Similar debates are also occuring between the US and Mexico over underwater territory in the Gulf. New and improved mapping technologies are raising questions about where national boundaries end. Will this development create a new arena for international conflict?

Free trade agreements such as NAFTA are lightning rods for political debate. Food aid to disadvantaged countries often comes in the form of American-grown crops, which are subsidized by the government and help support American farmers. However, many argue that the best way to aid struggling nations is to purchase their own crops and trade them on the free market. Are handouts the best solution to world hunger, or is cultivating agricultural trade in third world countries a better solution?

More than any other Olympics in recent memory, Beijing 2008 is controversial. The air quality, questionable religious freedom and lack of Chinese intervention in Darfur have all added to the fervor. The Chinese government accuses its critics of politicizing the games, which in theory should carry no diplomatic weight. But Olympic history is any indication, the Beijing controversy has room to grow.

America’s economic downturn and housing crisis are major concerns for voters in this election. Each candidate has policy suggestions to alleviate these problems, but can any government intervention actually make a difference? Many economists, such as Princeton University’s Paul Krugman, contend that America is experiencing a “postmodern recession”; an economic downturn caused by factors other than regulation and resistant to traditional government attempts at revival. Can policy solve the housing crisis, or must we wait for the economy to right itself?

The debate over capital punishment in America has grown increasingly nuanced and complex. While approximately two-thirds of the country approves of the death penalty in some circumstances, debates over how and when it should be applied are occurring in courts and the public arena. Questions about the ethics of various methods of execution and the new issue of applying the death penalty in martial courts for detainees force America to reconsider the very essence of its judicial system.

The remaining candidates in the 2008 election are an old white man, a young black man and a woman. Identity politics, the inclination for voters to chose a candidate based on race, gender, or religion, has never been more relevant to the political landscape. Just how real is the phenomenon of identity politics and is it ever in the voters' best interest to vote along demographic lines?

After nearly 50 years, the communist leader Fidel Castro has resigned. Along with North Korea, his government represented the last communist stronghold and a symbol of a very different world. Looking past his legacy, many wonder what this means for Cuba. Will his significantly more capitalist brother, Raul, ease an oppressive regime? Will US politicians reconsider the longstanding embargo?

Kosovo’s declaration of independence from Serbia has created a major rift in the international community. While the United States and some major European powers have already recognized Kosovo’s sovereignty, other countries refused to follow suit, stating that such a declaration is null and void under international law. Anxiety about the precedent that Kosovar independence could set is at the heart of the debate; many nations fear that recognition of Kosovo could encourage other separatist movements across the globe.

Why should the United States Postal Service have a monopoly on non-urgent first class mail? What about the unique authority to deliver to private mail boxes? Many, including Milton Friedman, argue that the USPS is an unjustified monopoly and the cause of higher stamp prices and compromised efficiency. The Postal Service responds that with competition, it would not be able to deliver mail to such obscure addresses for the same price. All this in the face of e-mail, online bill pay and internet media means the future of the USPS is far from certain.

News of the campus shooting at Northern Illinois University on Thursday revived the national discussion of violence in schools and what can be done to stop it. Is stricter gun control the answer, or should students be allowed to carry weapons for their own defense? What security measures can be taken to make schools safer? Does the media overhype these crimes, effectively glamorizing them and increasing national anxiety? In many ways, the debates surrounding school shootings reflect more generalized anxieties about the state of the nation.

Since the 1980s, the salaries of American executives have increased exponentially. With income inequality growing more pronounced, this development has become a source of contention. Some argue that it is a corporation’s prerogative to pay its CEO what it wishes, and that high CEO salaries are a very effective method of motivating the entire workforce. Others feel that such high salaries are not commensurate with a CEO’s impact on a company’s bottom line, and point out that these high wages are rarely cut when corporations fail to perform.

Today is Valentine’s Day, the name day of several early Christian martyrs, which evolved into a celebration of love by historical happenstance. Difficult as it seems to find controversy in candy and cards, many scoff that Valentine's Day is excessive and perpetuates constrictive gender roles. The holiday has become an excellent case study in how social behaviors are judged by cultural context. In Saudi Arabia, where the holiday is effectively banned, the same celebrations deemed conformist in the West are acts of rebellion.

Yesterday’s Senate vote on proposed reforms to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) closed a major chapter in the NSA wiretapping scandal, striking down an amendment that would have denied telecom companies immunity for assisting with surveillance. While many decry the lack of accountability for violations of the law and attribute the outcome to the telecom industry’s lobby, others argue that protecting those who play a vital role in combating terrorism is fair.

Turkey's recent controversial decision to allow Islamic headscarves in universities contrasts starkly with France's school ban in 2004. In Turkey the ability to wear a headscarf represents religious freedom and secularism (no legislation regulating religious representation), but in France headscarves are religious symbols and have no place in public schools. Meanwhile, in the US, a recent study reveals the enormous symbolic weight of headscarves and the social perceptions they invoke.

The close race for the Democratic presidential nomination has focused national attention on the Democratic superdelegates, elected officials and committee members who comprise about one-fifth of all delegates, and the possibility that they could function as tiebreakers. While skeptics argue that superdelegates have never voted against the frontrunner after the primaries and won’t start now, many question whether, in this election cycle, the party elite could overrule the popular will.

In 2006, China's trade with Africa totaled $50 billion, and that figure is on the rise. For African nations, this business relationship has brought increased prosperity and improved infrastructure, with the added bonus of dealing with a country that does not intervene in their domestic affairs. It is this "strictly business" policy that has incensed the international community, who argue that China is ignoring and allowing the human rights violations perpetrated by their new partners.

Americans have grown increasingly credit dependent, saving far less than other Western nations. The result: a national crisis of debt and an uncertain fate for Americans planning for their futures. How much of this is caused by personal fiscal irresponsibility, as opposed to government initiatives that encourage reckless spending? Are there solutions to this epidemic, and if so, who should bear the burden of implementing them?

The ethics of meat consumption have become much more complex than a standoff between devoted carnivores and vegetarians who espouse the value of animal rights. Humane treatment of animals by the meat industry and the environmental and humanitarian implications of meat consumption are also on the table. With the issues of world hunger and the future of the ecosystem growing more pressing, meat consumption is at the center of a convergence of timely ethical questions.

Yesterday American voters from 24 states took to the polls in the primary election. While John McCain did very well and solidified his position as the Republican front-runner, he did not secure enough delegates to force Mitt Romney from the race. On the Democratic side, Hillary Clinton won California but she and Barack Obama traded victories across the nation, setting up what is likely to be a drawn-out contest.

The ever-increasing amount of personal information used in e-commerce transactions and exchanged on social networking sites changes how we define "privacy." As emails and online diaries can now be subpoenaed by judges and identity scams have become more common, activists, lawyers and politicians are acting to establish a protective framework for Internet users. But as the debate continues, the conflict between safety, privacy, convenience and self-expression becomes more pronounced.

All the major candidates have enjoyed endorsements, but just how helpful (or hurtful) are these political sponsorships? For John McCain, the support of Arnold Schwarzenegger was good news, as the Governor is popular in the key California. But MoveOn's endorsement of Barack Obama is questionable because the liberal organization may alienate moderate voters. Meanwhile, many wonder whether endorsements are more than tokens of political support and actually translate into votes.

International courts like The War Crimes Tribunal at The Hague prosecute political leaders for crimes against humanity. In the past decade, these courts have become far more successful at bringing leaders to trial, but many still question their efficacy. Do they deter other leaders from committing similar atrocities or help psychologically heal war-torn nations? Or are they mere spectacles that distract from the West’s apathy towards current humanitarian crises?

Populations across the world are experiencing increasing gender gaps. Women outnumber men in most Western nations, while in countries like India and China young males outnumber their female counterparts. There has been much speculation and research of the causes of these phenomena, and even more about what the impact of these gender gaps will have on economics and society. In the end, only time will tell what the future of gender imbalanced nations will be.

Over the last 10 years the Democratic Republic of the Congo has suffered from varying degrees of civil strife and an estimated 5 million people have died as a result. Perhaps more than any other widespread conflict, the war in the Congo is largely unreported and rarely understood. Despite years of stalemate, a recent peace treaty is an encouraging sign that this historically-rooted war may have an end.

With a minority in Congress, an outgoing president with low approval ratings, and no clear frontrunner in the primary race, there is little debate that the Republican Party faces significant challenges. Since the Reagan years, the GOP has relied on a coalition between its socially and fiscally conservative wings. With these segments becoming ever more polarized, the question of the party's future is an urgent one.

Research indicates that drastically extending human life may be possible. At the forefront of this field is the controversial gerontologist Aubrey de Grey, who believes there is no reason that human life cannot be measured in centuries instead of decades. Despite the axiomatic assumption that we all want to live longer, some question the social, political and cultural effects of such longevity. And as drug companies develop anti-aging medication, others question the possible impact on America's capitalist health system.

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) was formed in 1949 to create a united military force to counterbalance the then growing Soviet Union. But since the end of the Cold War, many Americans have questioned the practical function of a multinational organization outside the UN. Critics argue that NATO polarizes world politics and costs America billions with no added security. Supporters claim that NATO allows for joint military action without the sluggish UN bureaucracy.

After 9/11, many citizens, who had long believed in the value of civil rights questioned whether these rights could not be suspended in order to protect our country. This debate turned into a national scandal when reports of prisoner torture and dubious detainment of "enemy combatants" became common. Are the techniques practiced by military interrogators, many of which violate either the Geneva Conventions and American law, creating a new generation of terrorists or protecting our country from another attack?

By purchasing carbon offsets, polluters can choose to neutralize the environmentally damaging emissions of their car, house or vacation. Depending on the calculated size of your carbon footprint and the fee you pay, for-profit companies and non-profit organizations plant trees or invest in renewable energy. Critics argue that carbon offsets ignore the lifestyle and cultural changes necessary for a long term solution and many suggest a conflict of interest when for-profit companies make money by helping the environment.

Ever since the suggestion that Nixon’s stubble in the first televised presidential debate lost him the presidency in 1960, the extent to which media coverage influences elections has been a concern. The proliferation of mass media, 24-hour news channels, and Internet reporting makes the issue more pressing. Does the constant barrage of information and updates lead to voter fatigue? Do major news outlets focus more attention on high-profile candidates, effectively determining the outcomes of party nominations?

The term, which first appeared in the 1980's but didn't enter discourse until after September 11th, describes an irrational fear of Islam. Islamophobia has become a controversial term that, for the left, symbolizes a dangerous overreaction to a minority of Muslims. But for the right, the word Islamophobia undermines a justified skepticism of religious motivations and marginalizes a cultural clash that may define our time.

This morning the Federal Reserve cut interest rates to 3.5% after a global sell off caused by fears of a US recession. As economic optimists become more scarce and the chance of recession seems increasingly imminent, the markets may have started to follow the larger economic trends. Recession, however, is predicted far more often than it occurs. Is this a steep correction, or the start of an anticipated recession?

On Martin Luther King day, we celebrate not just the accomplishments, passion and philosophy of one man, but the universal acceptance of Dr. King's ideals. While everyone agrees with King's vision of racial unity and equality, many dispute the extent to which America lived up to promises of reconciliation. On one hand, the improvement since the segregated 60's is undeniable, but perhaps our standards for indisputable progress are too low.

Who owns patriotism? Conservative voices like Bill O'Reilly would say Republican politics are more American. Similarly, liberal commentators like Keith Olbermann argue that liberal dissent echoes the true American ideals. Regardless of how you define patriotism, its rhetorical role in partisan politics cannot be denied. But whereas the the use of patriotism has been largely divisive in past years, the oncoming election is showing signs of hope. Candidates like Mike Huckabee and Barack Obama have enjoyed surges of success by connecting Americanism, pride, and unity.

This past week, disgraced Olympian Marion Jones was sentenced to prison and Congress reconvened its investigation of the baseball doping scandal. For most fans, the prevalence of performance-enhancing drug use among athletes sullies the integrity of competition but skeptics argue that the practice is virtually unstoppable. Now that human growth hormone use has also become popular among musicians, widespread steroid abuse raises questions about the pressures placed on public figures and the risks we’re willing to take to reach superhuman perfection.

Today, Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke testified before the House Budget Committee on the state of the faltering economy and recommended economic stimuli to jumpstart the economy. If the Fed tries to ease economic woes with a rate cut or by endorsing lower taxes, the risk of inflation increases. Considering that the Consumer Price Index (an indicator of inflation) rose .3% last month, Bernanke and the Fed face a difficult decision.

Since the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act of 1966, food companies have been required to clearly outline ingredients and nutritional information on the package. Despite FDA enforcement of the law, it is no secret that nutritional labeling can be confusing and even deceptive. Frustrated consumers and politicians have lobbied for stricter requirements and the food industry naturally resists. How much due diligence are consumers responsible for? And to what extent are manufactures responsible for conveying not just the bare facts, but all the facts?

The Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), which seeks a communist Columbian state, is known for hostage taking and drug trafficking. FARC made international headlines when it entered negotiations, mediated by Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez, that led to the release of 2 of an estimated 750 hostages. For FARC, the practice of hostage taking has been a double-edged sword. It has legitimized them as a political entity, but failed to realize their goals of releasing jailed FARC rebels and changing Colombia's government.

Yesterday in the United Arab Emirates, President Bush made a powerful speech about America's role in the Middle East. Bush aligned America's interests with those of the region and spoke about terrorism, democracy, and most notably, Iran, calling it, "the world’s leading sponsor of terrorism.” The administration had outlined two goals for the tour: pursue a Palestinian state and rally support to contain Iran. Despite an ambitious agenda, it is uncertain if America has the diplomatic clout to meet its goals.

After a long campaign that started with bans in California cities in the '90s, restaurants and cafes that allow smoking are becoming the minority. As smoking has become a universally decried and vilified personal vice, such bans have been generally applauded. However, smokers and libertarians who oppose smoking bans as government infringement on personal life have continually fought back, raising the question of how much the greater public good (if such a thing is indeed serviced by smoking bans) outweighs personal liberty. To what extent do smokers have rights, and do theirs necessarily pose a threat to the non-smoking public?

Sustainable architecture is the design of structures that require fewer natural resources and have a reduced impact on the environment. Because buildings account for 40% of worldwide energy consumption, this growing discipline has drawn attention from politicians, builders, and corporations. Skeptics of green architecture argue it isn't economically viable and the relative ecological benefit is negligible.

Recently Western media has covered the controversial Kaival Hospital fertility clinic in India, where American and European couples are traveling to conceive children with Indian surrogate mothers. The clinic’s defenders argue that overseas surrogacy offers infertile couples a cheaper and simpler method of conception while offering the poor mothers a chance to improve their quality of life. Others suggest that this qualifies as exploitation of the third world and question the ethics of surrogacy for hire. Many Western countries ban or severely restrict any kind of paid surrogacy; in the United States it remains a murky legal and ethical issue. Varied reactions to the notion of reimbursement for sperm and egg donation and surrogate motherhood highlight the complex ethical questions of monetary compensation for bodily services, particularly those linked to sex and reproduction.

Yesterday’s primary in New Hampshire – a state with one of the highest percentages of independent voters – was a prime example of the unpredictable and often decisive impact of swing voters. While conventional wisdom predicted that New Hampshire’s independent streak would mean victory for the bipartisan-minded Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton secured a narrow victory in the Democratic race. On the other side, Senator John McCain, known for his “maverick” status within the Republican party, easily bested the other GOP candidates. The results, which leave both races uncertain, suggest that the eventual nominees and the next president will be decided by swing voters in the middle of the political spectrum.

The going rate for a civilian space flight is $30 million, but that will soon change. A spaceport (space airport) is under construction in New Mexico, and is slated to launch tourist flights by 2010. Companies like Virgin Galactic (taking reservations for $200,000 a seat) and Bigelow Aerospace are racing to start trips and construct hotels. But a family vacation to the moon is still a long way away. The United States, European Union, and Russian governments are involved in the effort, ensuring security and varying degrees of oversight. With the private sector poised to enter the final frontier, the question is whether this radical new development will redefine the way we explore and research space.

TV fans continue to feel the effects of the ongoing Writer’s Guild of America (WGA) strike this year as their favorite shows run out of original episodes. Even as late night personalities are returning to the airwaves (either through private interim agreements with the WGA or by bringing non-guild writers on staff), the effects on episodic television, the upcoming awards season, and the motion picture industry remain to be seen. At the heart of the dispute is the issue of residuals for internet broadcasts of writer-generated content. Regardless of which side you support, the WGA strike raises interesting questions about the future of content creation and distribution in the age of new media, as well as the future of unions in America.

The legality and recognition of same-sex marriage is polarizing. To date, only Massachusetts has passed legislation to legally recognize same-same marriage, while 9 other states like Vermont and Connecticut offer civil unions. While often pitted as a pivotal element of the alleged "culture wars" dividing American liberals and conservatives, the debate runs deeper than mere pro or con positions. There has been debate within the gay community about whether marriage is actually desirable, with the legal and financial advantages being weighed against the risk of losing a largely developed homosexual culture. Another argument questions whether the legalizing same-sex marriage will further sanctify coupledom as the most privileged form of social unit.

Civil unrest has broken out in Kenya in response to allegations of fraud in the December 27 general election, in which incumbent Mwai Kibaki narrowly regained power. Despite calls for a recount by opposition leader Raila Odinga, President Kibaki was sworn in and protests and riots began, culminating in widespread violence on the streets of Nairobi on Thursday. With affiliations divided sharply along party lines, Kenyans and the rest of the world worry that a nation long known as an oasis of relative stability could become the site of yet another African crisis.

Today Iowan citizens vote in the first presidential primary. While it accounts for less than 1% of the US population, candidates and media networks dedicated spectacular resources to winning and covering Iowa. For candidates, the first primary is an opportunity to gain early momentum under the scrutiny of an enormous media spotlight. Often criticized, early primaries allow voters face time with busy candidates and lesser financed hopefuls the opportunity to gain support. Success in Iowa may be important, but many think its clout is exaggerated and others question whether caucuses should be staged simultaneously to prevent the outcome of small states from swaying voters across the country.

The implementation of charity is changing. Once content to simply write a check, companies and foundations are beginning to take a far more hands on approach, often using market driven forces and techniques. The Clinton Foundation greatly contributed to the fight against AIDS in Africa, not through a hefty donation, but by arranging financing and contracts for low cost pharmaceutical manufacturers in India and South Africa. Micro-loans are all the rage and charities are being assessed just as companies would be--for efficiency and results. It’s too soon to say whether this new approach to giving will prove a boon to those in need, but considering initial results, it seems likely.

Traditionally, New Year's Day marks the tail end of the excessive holiday season. Many make resolutions and promises of cleaner, stricter and more virtuous life styles. The cycle of overindulgence followed by recrimination and puritanical resolve seems inevitable. Conventional wisdom dictates that our excesses are getting worse -- we're spending more, doing less, drinking more and getting fatter. On the other hand, a reasoned contrarian voice suggests that we're being hard on ourselves and a little indulgence isn't all that bad. Can we break the cycle of extravagance and self-loathing? Can the oft-touted maxim of "everything in moderation" actually be achieved?

On the last day of the year, we have selected 4 developments for which 2007 will be remembered. The economy has shown worrying signs of weakness and uncertainty. While debate and concern over the war continued, a measure of stability was achieved in Iraq at a surprising rate. The green movement became mainstream as Al Gore won the Nobel Prize and the environment gained bipartisan political attention. More than ever, the media honed its ability to define and exemplify cultural developments. Whether 2007 was particularly noteworthy, no one can say, but from here it seems to have been a pivotal year.

To ensure economic stability, countries in South America, Asia, and and the Middle East peg their currency to the US dollar. As the dollar sinks to new lows, many countries are reconsidering their economic allegiance because it devalues and restricts their own currency, often resulting in inflation. Russia, Saudi Arabia and Venezuela have already taken steps to revalue their currencies. If enough governments decide to cut ties with the dollar, consequences could be serious: our currency would freefall.

Benazir Bhutto, Pakistan's controversial populist prime minister, had returned from a eight-year self-exile to challenge the existing President Musharraf in the upcoming elections. Her return had been marked by unrest and violence in the country, and ended yesterday with her assassination. Although Al Qaida claims responsibility, questions remain concerning who is to blame, and whether their motivation was political or ideological. In addition, as Pakistan's future spirals further into uncertainty, what will be the impact of Bhutto's death on the democratic hopes of the country as well as the complicated relationship between the US and Pakistan?

Iran announced that by 2015 it will have a missile capable of reaching the United States. To counter this threat, President Bush strongly advocates the development of the National Missile Defense system (NMD) that would entail interceptor bases in Europe. The network has alarmed Vladimir Putin because its existence could negate the deterrence threat of Russia's nuclear arsenal. Domestically, many question the feasibility of the NMD and whether it is in the spirit of the seemingly forgotten large scale disarmament.

Hybrid cars are often considered the perfect match for the thrifty and environmentally conscience consumer. They save gas money, reduce pollutive emissions and ease demands on strained energy sources. While these benefits are almost certainly true, the cost-benefit equation is more complicated. Many would-be buyers find that the technology premium outweighs gas savings, and others point to environmental drawbacks like battery manufacturing.

On Christmas eve in 1914, English and German soldiers shared in an impromptu truce. The war-hardened enemies lay down their weapons, left their trenches,and celebrated under the most unlikely circumstances, playing a soccer game in no man's land. In more commonplace days, Christmas is not axiomatically unifying; it means many things to many people. Regardless of how you view the holiday or if you celebrate it, Christmas may be an opportunity to fortify our common humanity and truly reflect on what it would take to bring peace on earth.

The media-hosted "War on Christmas" debate has become a staple of the holiday season. Pundits and reporters lead both sides: those who feel that public observance of Christmas is a right and those who see it as state-imposed religious worship. Media attention on the issue has become so extreme that it threatens to overshadow the holiday itself.

No matter the political climate, the flat tax never completely disappears from public discourse. The oncoming election has again stoked discussion as Huckabee suggested a single rate consumption tax and Ron Paul voiced support for a flat tax. Advocates argue that a flat rate tax leads to economic growth and is simply fairer. Additionally, the time and money used in the current tax practice would recycle into the economy. Still, support on the whole is weak. Most argue that progressive taxes promote meritocracy and equality of opportunity.

Secular government has long been praised as the most effective form of peaceful democracy. However, as political parties with religious affiliations have come into power in democratic elections across the globe, the hegemony of the secular democracy has been called into question. Many question whether democracy without secularism is a viable option. Others, such as scholar-provocateur Camille Paglia, argue that ideological secularism has outlived its usefulness, creating a homogeneous ideological climate. In a world characterized by multiculturalism and religious conflict, can secularism survive?

On Tuesday, with little fanfare, the White House announced that it had "approved a significant reduction in the U.S. nuclear weapons stockpile to take effect by the end of 2007." The details are secret, but analysts speculate that by 2012 our arsenal will be reduced from 5,000 to 2,200 warheads. The United States has often been criticized for attempting to stop countries from developing and maintaining nuclear arsenals while continuing to stockpile their own. Ultimately, many question the deterrence effect of a nuclear arsenal and whether this recent reduction amounts to more than a diplomatic ploy.

The days between Black Friday and Christmas represent an annual injection of consumer spending that boosts sales before year end. As the chances of recession seem to swell with each analyst projection and our economic climate becomes increasingly uncertain, attention has turned to the holiday retail bonanza. With preliminary sales reports lower than expected and 30% of polled shoppers spending less than last year, the much needed spending surge may not arrive as planned.

Not all prisoners in the US are housed by federal and state governments. Every year 40,000 illegal immigrants and 27,000 US citizens are held by private prisons in questionable conditions. Corporations like the Corrections Corporation of America earn enormous contracts to jail convicted felons. For the government's part, private prisons alleviate overcrowding and save money. Critics argue that by outsourcing prisoner care the government shirks its responsibility to maintain decent living standards and that ultimate accountability is ambiguous.

2007 will be a record year for opium growth in Afghanistan. Illegal drugs derived from the extensive Afghan poppy fields make their way all over the world and have started to influence drug policy in many concerned countries. Effective strategy for dealing with the opium production, which many suspect funds the Taliban, is not as easy as burning fields and arresting farmers. Growing poppy is closely integrated with Afghan culture and government and some strategists fear that harsh actions against the growers may push more of the populace against NATO forces.

Since the 1980s, drug testing in the workplace, for both prospective and current employees, has become standard practice in many American companies. Proponents maintain that drug testing cuts down on an employer’s bottom line, saving money on employee illnesses, absences and health costs. Furthermore, drug testing helps ensure safety, particularly in dangerous work environments. Critics call employee drug testing a violation of privacy that infringes on 4th amendment rights, and also question the correlation between drug use and efficiency on the job.

What designates a work as art? Does medium matter? Is it the intent of the artist, or the interpretation of the viewer? As the contemporary art market blasts into astronomical prices and prestige, the "what constitutes art" debate is more divisive than ever. Enter Tom Wolfe and the Derriere Guard, exponents of a return to "Classical Realism." Wolfe's regressive movement is small but has growing support. While the mission of the Derriere Guard is certainly worth note, artists and aficionados insist that modern art is no fad.

The United Nations was founded to facilitate cooperation in international law, security, and development. In light of the recent corruption scandals, few would say the UN is functioning as intended. Consequently many have started to debate whether the United States should leave the UN. Though many stateside see the UN as a weak organization for dealing with modern humanitarian and security problems, the rest of the international community values the UN as the forum for international dialogue. And while John McCain and others have promoted the idea of a rival "League of Democracies", even John Bolton considers reform a better option than flight.

2007 has been one of the worst years for flight delays on record. Part of the problem is the Federal Aviation Administration’s antiquated air traffic control system, which uses radar to direct flight plans. The FAA is launching an extensive overhaul of its control system, which will use GPS technology. While it’s generally agreed that change is necessary, there has been debate about the efficacy of the proposed modifications. Some think that the United States should follow the lead of other nations and privatize its air traffic control. Others question whether the new technology will be enough to combat the problems of overbooked airports and understaffed control centers.

Virtual communities like Second Life and World of Warcraft have attracted millions of users. As these cyber realities become more popular, a body of law is born. Not only are some virtual items like swords, clothes and even islands being sold for real cash, but the theft of these 2 dimensional treasures has led to real prosecution. Issues with intellectual property are also coming to the fore, as some users demand the rights to characters they create and mainline companies start waking up to brand misuse. Couple these developments with real-life law enforcement and these cyber worlds look a lot like home.

For the first time in 7 years, representatives of the EU member states met with African leaders. For many European governments the meeting was important enough to lift the visa ban on Zimbabwean President Mugabe. The urgency to readdress the Europe-African relationship stems from China's escalating influence throughout Africa. While the headlines were dominated by the presence of controversial leaders and the absence of Gordon Brown, the summit focused on immigration and peacekeeping. Most notably, African leaders categorically rejected a free trade proposal that would replace the colonial-era system.

Hate crime legislation is controversial. Depending on whether or not the motives for a crime are "hateful," punishments vary greatly. Proponents of laws like the Matthew Shepard Act (dropped by the Senate this week) argue that crimes motivated by prejudice have a greater negative impact on our society and that punishments must be harsher. Others dismiss the laws on the grounds that hate legislation infringes on the freedoms of thought, speech, and expression that are so core to American values.

At the recent Asia-Pacific Water Summit, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon spoke of the overarching consequences of water shortages and focused on the increased likelihood of violence. In Africa, India, and Asia, where some spend hours each day to reach water, the social and economic costs are enormous. To prevent these shortages and economize limited supplies, countries are privatizing their water resources. But these processes are criticized with many asking arguing that water is a right and not a marketable commodity.

Nearly all American ethanol is distilled from corn. Once touted as the green fuel of the future, corn ethanol has come under increasing scrutiny. Critics argue that, with the fossil fuels used to grow corn and the lower mileage per gallon, the environmental consequences of corn ethanol are ultimately worse than those of conventional gasoline, and that substantial corn subsidies discourage the development of other, cleaner alternative energy solutions. Proponents maintain that producing corn ethanol is the best option given alternative technology and the consequences of dependence on foreign oil.

After NASA took us to the moon, the prestigious government agency earned respect and funding. Since then, tangible discoveries at NASA have been few and far between, and some have started to question the value of such an expensive government agency. Defenders argue that NASA does not receive nearly enough funding because space exploration benefits the entire planet and future generations. With signs of a weakening economy and a growing national debt, evaluating NASA has started to become a campaign issue as prominent candidates from both parties are willing to redirect funds to other government programs.

For nearly 200 days, Belgium has been without a government. Since the ambiguous election 6 months ago, King Albert II has not been able to form a stable government. The political quagmire is not easily resolved: wealthier Flems in the north seek greater autonomy, and the French-speaking Walloons vote to maintain a unified country. If politics in Belgium do not change course, many fear the country will split.

For nearly a century, De Beers has dictated the price of diamonds all over the world. To maintain its monopoly, the South African company supported the Apartheid government and traded lucratively with the Soviet Union. Some also allege that De Beers mistreats its miners and evicts natives from their land. Despite having created an artificially bloated diamond market, some, including Nelson Mandela, come to De Beers' defense. Advocates of the controversial company contend that the industry leader has created jobs and brought significant wealth to parts of the world that would otherwise be impoverished.

Since the Vietnam War, the United States has not instituted mandatory military service. The idea of forcing young men into the armed forces is often dismissed in America, partially because of the Vietnam era controversy. Unknown to many in the US, however, is just how common Military conscription is in other parts of the world. For instance, Germany, Brazil, and Israel all rely on national military service to maintain strong national defense without incurring enormous debts.

The United States and Canada share the largest unguarded border in the world, much of it is remote wilderness. Along the border drug busts and security arrests go largely unreported. Our nation's security agenda is focused on airports, harbors, and the southern border with Mexico. Some say, however, that with so many unchecked entry points across such a vast area, the Canadian border deserves more attention.

All over the world fish reserves are being decimated by large scale trawling expeditions. Despite efforts by governments, NGOs, and the UN, fish populations continue to fall, some to critical levels. As fish stocks decline farming has become increasingly popular but equally controversial. Many think that farming has the potential to prevent a global fish crisis, but the man-made breeding poses significant health and environmental challenges.

Today in Annapolis the leaders of several Middle Eastern states gather for a rare Israel-Palestine peace conference. The primary goal, which some think futile, is to outline a plan to establish a Palestinian state. In the background of this colossal challenge are several secondary issues. The domestic party politics of Israel and Palestine may prevent the necessary concessions on both sides. Many are also wary of Syria, whose last minute commitment has led to speculation that the Iranian ally may be warming to Western interests.

Amtrak is an unusual company. Its board of directors is appointed by the President of the United States and in order to function, Amtrak receives well over a billion dollars a year from the federal government. During the course of its life, Amtrak has made several pushes to profitability, all of which have eventually failed. Especially considering the high ticket prices, many have started to question the necessity of a national rail carrier at the price of so many tax dollars.

By 2050 the world population will have reached 9 billion. Although often absent from public discourse, controlling population growth to maintain resource supply and environmental sustainability has become an increasingly pressing topic. Many argue that the earth's resources cannot sustain indefinite population growth and that the future of the human race depends on controlling it. Meanwhile, the idea of implementing controls makes others uneasy. Beyond the theoretical discussions, controlling the number of human beings is a logistical and political quagmire and may not even be feasible.

At the end of the harvest, Thanksgiving traditionally celebrated all the crops that would last the winter. Since the first Thanksgiving Day in 1619 the holiday has evolved-today it can mean football, traffic, and pizza. Regardless of the drastic change from 1619 to today, the crux of Thanksgiving remains the same: family, friends and appreciation for all we have.

Late yesterday, the Supreme Court agreed to rule on the second amendment - the right of US citizens to hold and bear arms. The case comes from the District of Columbia where 6 plaintiffs challenged the gun ban. The ruling will not only clarify the scope of the second amendment (the last Supreme Court ruling was in 1939), but it will bring gun control to the forefront of the 2008 election.

The Navy has recently taken delivery of a new rail gun and the Air Force is pushing for a greater slice of the defense budget. Neither advanced fighters nor experimental weapon modules are of much use in Afghanistan or Iraq, where the majority of casualties is caused by comparatively primitive IEDs. Regardless, many defense analysts say that the best way to avoid a large scale conventional war is to be prepared.

Scientific research and technology has brought us to the brink of a genetic revolution. Specific genes, now identifiable, indicate higher risk of diseases and predisposition to any number of medical conditions. While the medical implications of genetic science are immense, the technology poses many political and philosophical dilemmas. Is it morally acceptable to alter the genetics of our unborn children? Should employers and heath insurance companies have access to our DNA? Genetics may force drastic changes in the health industry and the conception of privacy could take on a whole new meaning.

The inheritance tax is controversial. Depending on the state in which you die, more than 50% of your money can go the government. For many, that is a good thing. America is not the meritocracy that it would like to be-the greatest indication of whether or not you will be a wealthy adult is if you grew up in a wealthy environment. Programs and initiatives like education and welfare are drastically underfunded in many parts of the country. On the other hand, America's economy prospers as a free market where people are encouraged to to work hard and earn money with which they can do whatever they want-including passing it on to their decedents. For some, the "death tax" is not only unfavorable because it taxes income twice, but it also contradicts the incentives of our free market.

Many investors, governments and activists think that wiring Africa with a communication infrastructure is critical to economic growth and reducing poverty. Currently, calls from one African country to another are often dispatched through Europe and access to internet and TV is rare in many areas. Logistically the nearly insurmountable challenge involves navigating governments, geography, and corporations. Despite these obstacles many worry that international companies will drain African resources and transfer them to shareholders and investors.

Some cities in Asia have become famous for stifling air pollution. It is common in Taipei, Shanghai, and Hong Kong for pedestrians to cover their faces with protective masks. New industries have created wealth in many developing cities, but the costs of pollution are enormous. Every year thousands die from lung disease and other air related sicknesses. The smog is not limited to a few cities as weather patterns push polluted air to different parts of Asia and even Los Angeles. The Asian Brown Cloud, for instance moves from the Indian Ocean to the Himalayas. Meanwhile, within Asia, exporting pollution has become a hot diplomatic topic.

In black markets all over the world, people are buying and selling human organs. The growing markets involve poor local donors and an international contingent of wealthy buyers. In America there over 95,000 people waiting for organ transplants and in the last year thousands died waiting for surgery. Others were saved by the generosity of friends and family, but such altruism is rare. As these problems become better known, some see a clear solution to exploited donors and insurmountable waiting lists: legalize the market.

You either love Wal-Mart or you hate it. The controversial company is the paradigm of an efficient corporation, reaping huge profits from razor thin margins. When Wal-Mart opens a "Supercenter" the low prices offer consumers goods that would otherwise be unaffordable. The inexpensive clothes, food, and prescription drugs come at many costs. Wal-Mart employees often subsist on meager wages and many local stores close soon after Wal-Mart's doors open.

During a recent Naval exercise a Chinese Song Class submarine surfaced close to the U.S.S. Kitty Hawk, evading more than 12 American ships to reach the super-carrier. The end of the Cold War made the United States the world's preeminent military power, but China's spectacular economic growth has given it the resources to fund its armed forces. China's military advancements have begun to challenge the technological superiority that the U.S. enjoys. With Chinese military spending unknown and the People's Liberation Army growing every year, America cannot count on unrivaled military superiority indefinitely.

The size of America's welfare program changes with each election. Many argue that the unemployment and food aid in the US is inadequate, while conservatives contend that welfare programs should be reduced across the board. Others criticize the lack of efficiency in federal aid programs. What are a government's obligations to its citizens? Is it mere protection from harm and regulation of trade or could it be more adequately expressed by FDR's second bill of rights, which mentions, "The right of every family to a decent home" and "medical care".

New York Governor Eliot Spitzer plans to give driver's licenses to illegal immigrants. The proposal has caused a national uproar, drawing congressmen, pundits and presidential candidates. Security experts are divided over the program, but New York DMV officials are not. Many have refused to issue driving licenses to illegal immigrants on the basis that driving a car is a privilege for normalized US citizens. Proponents argue that illegal immigrants will drive without licenses and issuing them may improve road safety.

It is a rare circumstance when both Catholic leaders and students disagree with political reforms. Hugo Chavez has consolidated considerable power in recent months, ending Presidential term limits and proposing a new constitution that will likely be approved on December 2nd. The amended constitution would give greater power to the executive and commission the army to fight "internal enemies." Although Chavez remains popular, more are questioning the success of his reforms and his proclaimed “Bolivar Revolution.”

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was passed with bi-partisan support in 1990 and took effect in 1992. The Act was designed to protect "qualified individuals with disabilities" from discrimination. Activists now say that the law's power has been truncated by judicial rulings. There is strong support in the House for the ADA Restoration Act, which would reinforce the earlier law. Detractors contend that both laws are unnecessary and note that the percentage of working disabled has changed little over the past seventeen years. Many go so far as to say that the ADA is counterproductive, making employers leery of hiring candidates that could file lawsuits.

While the United States has a huge debt, many governments are stockpiling enormous amounts of cash. The Chinese government, for instance, has in excess of 1.2 trillion investable dollars. The United Arab Emirates has a fund of about 875 billion dollars. Soon, national governments could directly influence top performing companies and the line between the private and public sector would become blurred. Another concern is that a government could change its investment philosophy and destabilize the world economy.

It is a commonly known fact that men earn more money than women. Less certain, however, are the trends and causes of this statistic. Many contend that the pay gap is created by choices that woman make-leaving work to take care of children at home, for instance. Others insist that the gap symbolizes the remains of an overtly male dominated society.

Doctors pay exorbitant sums for malpractice insurance and a hot cup of coffee can turn into a multimillion dollar settlement. People often complain about the inclination to sue and the amount of lawsuits in the US is often joked about in another countries. On the other hand, there are advantages to a society that will take a lost pair of pants to court. Investors inject capital into young businesses with the protection of long set precedents and consumers are protected by the threat of a lawsuit.

Recent film depictions aside, the pirate seemed to be little more then a Caribbean tourist attraction or a colorful costume party choice. Not so! Pirate attacks are up on the African coast and are occurring in Indonesia and Asia. Using small speed boats, AK-47's, and rocket propelled grenades, modern pirates hijack and rob cargo and relief ships. World powers are again dispatching warships for pirate patrol as well armed raiders in high speed power boats threaten vital shipping routes.

The Cuban economy has become considerably freer under the leadership of Raul Castro. Since Fidel stepped down, Raul has loosened restrictions on imports and highlighted the productivity of private farming. The changes are symbolic of an evolving mentality in the Cuban government, but official Communist policy and language remain the same.