Commentary | The Monitor's View
- Yankee Dodger Dandy
Two of baseball’s most storied teams are facing off in the World Series, uniting Americans in a historic rivalry and a joyful revival of a sport that defines the nation.
- A tribute to Venezuela’s free thinkers
The winners of Europe’s prize for “freedom of thought” are two opposition leaders who create unity among Venezuelans by respecting a diversity of views.
- Mozambique’s turn toward integrity
Voters in the southern African nation confirm a wider trend, demanding leaders who put honesty before corruption and self-interest.
- In Europe, a nod to honest leaders
The story behind a slim victory for Moldova’s vote on joining the European Union reveals a deeper embrace of democratic values.
- Creative nudges for good land use
Better financial incentives for ranchers who might cut down rainforests fit into a global shift in values in many rural areas.
- How China’s women claim freedom
Those with good incomes tout their singlehood and economic power in a quiet movement against patriarchal tradition and invasive government.
- Fearless renewal in Kashmir
In its first elections in a decade, the disputed region between India and Pakistan rejects violence to restore democracy.
- Calm amid climate change
The next climate summit will focus on peace. Some countries in conflict – caused in part by climate change – are already trying to achieve reconciliation between feuding groups.
- Beyond politics of identity
The diversity of candidates grows with each U.S. election, prompting office seekers and voters to see through gender and ethnicity to universal qualities.
- The sound of silent giving
Generous donors who prefer anonymity may have many motives, such as humility. One study finds unobserved altruism can increase giving.
- Historic grievances, new friends
France and Madagascar collaborate to heal colonial-era wounds through contrition and forgiveness.
- Roots of Mexico’s confidence against crime
A new president’s tactics to curb violent cartels reflects the country’s past progress as a democracy against nonelected threats.
- The kindly calm after a storm
Like many natural disasters, hurricanes often push communities to respond with a climate of trust and compassion.
- The force of contrition this Oct. 7
A year of conflict in the Middle East – and beyond – has led many to reflect on their roles in causing friction and on ways to end it.
- In Gaza or Ukraine, peace can look impossible. Here, there’s hope.
- Transformed FEMA faces a torrent of challenges to its growing relief efforts
- Elon Musk is spending big to boost Trump’s turnout. Republicans worry it might flop.
- Cover Story‘I eat the elite for breakfast!’ Argentina’s Javier Milei wants radical disruption.
- Meet the ‘Haley Voters for Harris’ who could tip the election