All Commentary
- A Christian Science PerspectiveHow can we forgive?
A Christian Science perspective.
The Monitor's ViewHow Nigerians can thwart Boko HaramForeign help for Nigeria to rescue the girls abducted by Boko Haram only highlights the government's failings, notably corruption. To dry up support for such militant groups, Nigerians must put an end to graft in high places.
- Readers RespondReaders Write: The ongoing debate over e-cigarettes
Letters to the Editor for the May 12, 2014 weekly magazine:
Some studies have shown that electronic cigarettes deliver 'little if any' nicotine to the bloodstream and that nicotine, absent tobacco, is a relatively weak drug, similar to caffeine.
With e-cigarettes, high-profile cigarette use is back on TV. What does that say about their acceptability, especially when the world is still debating whether they are safe?
- A Christian Science PerspectiveAn unexpected sidewalk Samaritan
A Christian Science perspective: A flat tire, a street-corner encounter, and an important lesson.
The Monitor's ViewAn answer to Ukraine's pro-Russia vote on 'self rule'The pro-Russia votes on 'self rule' in eastern Ukraine are illegal by any measure but they reflect a legitimate challenge to the nation's identity. The interim government in Kiev has responded well with offers that reflect a civil spirit of democratic unity.
Good government: the happiness factorOver the centuries governments have been feared, revered, and made the butt of jokes. The best governments do one thing right: they add to the balance of human happiness.
Europe's brush with its pastHowever the crisis in Ukraine plays out, it has had a profound affect on the thinking of European leaders. Overnight, a continent that seemed to be on a holiday from history has had to grapple with the question of what it stands for.
Partners in war, and in ending itThe inclusion of women in front-line combat operations is a belated recognition of their already-substantial role in the US military.
Teaching that's tailored to learnersA classroom revolution is under way that harnesses technology to allow students to learn at the pace best suited to them -- and changes the role of teacher from "sage on the stage" to mentor and coach.
- A Christian Science PerspectiveWhen there is no card, call, e-mail, or text on Mother's Day
A Christian Science perspective.
The Monitor's ViewHow China, Russia help spread democracyNations not in secure alliances of democracy take note when Russia annexes a piece of Ukraine and China shoots water guns at Vietnam's ships in a claim on the Paracel Islands. Security pacts based on common civic values can be strong deterrents.
OpinionHow to loosen Boko Haram’s hold on NigeriaBoko Haram’s depredations, while horrific, are symptomatic of longer-term problems. With US support, Nigeria must curb political corruption to improve security, ensure religious freedom, and begin the process of reconciliation among its people.
- A Christian Science PerspectiveWhat you think about food
A Christian Science perspective: Food may not have the power over us that it seems to have.
The Monitor's ViewNegotiate with Boko Haram to release girls?Nigeria rules out talking with Boko Haram until the girls are released. But it also welcomes US assistance in hostage negotiation. It must draw on the experience of other countries in how and when to negotiate with terrorists.
- Readers RespondReaders Write: Heroin and America's spiritual void; Hypocrisy on Putin's Ukraine move
Letters to the Editor for the May 5, 2014 weekly magazine:
Consumerism and technology are constantly trying to convince us of the self-evident absurdity that we can 'have it all'. In truth, we not only can't have it all, we really don't want it!
The look at heroin addiction in American suburbia brings attention to the paucity of spiritual control in our YOLO ('you only live once') society.
If, to protect itself from potential threats, the US can justify invading countries near the Russian sphere of influence, how can the US deny Russia the same justification with Crimea?
Global ViewpointGordon Brown: US, Britain, and Nigeria must not let Boko Haram act with impunityThe US and Britain must lend surveillance and other technology help locate the girls kidnapped by Boko Haram in Nigeria. By doing so, they are sending a message that friends of Nigeria will not stand by if the terrorist campaign continues. A new 'safe schools' initiative must also be put in place to reassure worried parents that schools are secure.
- Global ViewpointGordon Brown: US, Britain, and Nigeria must not let Boko Haram act with impunity
The US and Britain must lend surveillance and other technology help locate the girls kidnapped by Boko Haram in Nigeria. By doing so, they are sending a message that friends of Nigeria will not stand by if the terrorist campaign continues. A new 'safe schools' initiative must also be put in place to reassure worried parents that schools are secure.
- A Christian Science PerspectiveEmpowered by forgiveness
A Christian Science perspective: We can’t afford to allow the heartaches to overshadow the beauty of life. Forgiveness, based on Christ Jesus’ example, is a foundational way that we can stay out of the chaos and remain committed to the good.
OpinionWhy I won't be voting for Mandela's party in South Africa this timeAfter the African National Congress was un-banned, my family returned to South Africa after years of exile. In 1994, I voted proudly for the ANC in the first democratic elections. While I will forever love the movement that freed us, I recognize that it, too, needs its powers checked.
The Monitor's ViewLiberator's hubris and the South African electionLike many parties that liberated their country, South Africa's ANC expects to win every election. But examples in other countries show why the ANC should, and can, reform itself rather than cling to past glory.
