The accelerating pace of world history poses a single, common challenge to all the world’s governments, cultures, religions, businesses, civil society groups and individuals.  But if the challenge is the same, the capacity to respond is profoundly unequal.  Some governments, some people, some cultures, some businesses and even some religions and civilizations are better placed [...]

Today is not one of the great days in the history of American foreign policy. In fact it’s the 202nd anniversary of one of the stupidest things we ever did. On this day in 1807 a besotted Congress passed a law essentially banning all US foreign trade at the request of President Thomas [...]

Yesterday came the news: South Africa’s Beet Lady is dead.
I’ve often been surprised but have rarely been shocked; the Beet Lady managed to do it.
About five years ago in South Africa where I was attending a press conference held by Ms. Manto Tshabalala-Msimang, then Minister of Health.  Glowing with confidence and assurance she told us [...]