All Commentary
The Monitor's ViewEgypt's big lesson in democracyEgypt adopted a postrevolutionary constitution this week. But the Arab nation has only begun to understand that democracy isn't only majority rule.
Beyond the 'fiscal cliff': 6 reasons to be optimistic about America's future As Americans take stock of 2012 and gear up for 2013, it's tempting to adopt "decline think" about the country, especially since there is still no deal to avoid the "fiscal cliff" of steep budget cuts and tax increases. But here are six reasons Americans should still be optimistic about their future.- A Christian Science PerspectiveEmpty the lint trap
A Christian Science perspective: Old, outgrown ways of thinking have no hold on you.
The Monitor's ViewHomes for the homeless: a smart investment in dignityDespite a recent rise in poverty, homelessness is down. One reason? Providing a residence for the homeless creates enough self-respect for them to deal with underlying issues.
OpinionAfter Sandy Hook and Webster, N.Y., the real 'monster' only community can healAfter the Sandy Hook massacre in Newtown, Conn. and now the shooting ambush of firefighters in Webster, N.Y., public dialogue has focused on the world's evil. But the real 'monster' is the abuse and neglect that kills kids every day – stopped by strong communities, not guns.
- A Christian Science PerspectiveLook to the stars
A Christian Science perspective.
The Monitor's ViewTake steroids out of college footballAn in-depth investigation shows that despite avowals to the contrary, college football programs are rife with the use of illegal steroids. A tougher stand is needed.
OpinionChristmas shopping: A pink kitchen set and the 'buying local' dilemmaI wasted hours looking for a cheaper version online, when my dad was willing to pay more at the local store. He made me realize that I was all about 'buying local' until I had to shell out more money. I've learned: I can’t always pay more, but I don’t always have to pay less.
- Readers RespondReaders Write: Should Obamacare honor the rights of individuals or institutions?
Letters to the Editor for the weekly print issue of December 24, 2012: Government shouldn't privilege the teachings of one religion over another on any part of health-care access. And equating women's access to health care with an impingement on religious liberty is a distraction.
- A Christian Science PerspectiveFrom juvenile hall: a Christmas to remember
A Christian Science perspective.
Who needs church?The purpose of church may not be apparent in everyday life. But there comes a moment when we all wonder if everyday life is all there is. Church is waiting to help answer that question.
The Monitor's ViewThe NRA call for armed guards in schoolsThe NRA's call for gun-carrying guards in schools shows it joins with other Americans in caring even more about children after the Sandy Hook shootings. But history also shows violence declines when children are taught how to counter violence by means other than violence – such as caring for others.
- A Christian Science Perspective'Does God need me?'
A Christian Science perspective.
OpinionSandy Hook exposes the logic gap in NRA's opposition to gun controlAfter Sandy Hook shooting in Newtown, we hear arguments against gun control, chiefly that laws won't keep guns from evil-doers. But no one would argue that homicide laws have no place just because they can’t stop all killings. The point is, gun control will reduce carnage, if not stop it.
The Monitor's ViewKids and digital media: removing the fearsReports of Adam Lanza's war-game obsession and the new FTC rules on children's online privacy help refocus concerns on the effects of digital media on children. But parental anxiety can be channeled toward solutions.
OpinionObama must remind Vladimir Putin of human rights, religious freedom concernsUnder Vladimir Putin, Russia has passed a succession of anti-human rights laws curtailing freedom of expression, association, and assembly. Parliament might even pass a proposed blasphemy law that clearly would violate religious freedom. President Obama must speak out.
OpinionIsrael's settlement push kills two-state solution, leaving Palestinians few optionsIsrael's settlement construction in the E1 corridor and East Jerusalem sends a clear message. Unless President Obama stands up to Israel, he and Benjamin Netanyahu should not be surprised if Palestinians charge them with the death of the two-state solution and seek other paths.
- OpinionSandy Hook: Mental health, not gun control, is the answer to mass shootings
In the wake of the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., a cry has gone up for gun control and ways to keep guns from people with mental illness. What we really need is to address the causes of these shootings – issues of mental health and social isolation.
- A Christian Science PerspectivePeace among enemies
A Christian Science perspective: The Christmas truce during World War I holds lessons for us today.
- Readers RespondReaders Write: Democracy needs better media; Israel's right to defend itself
Letters to the Editor for the weekly print issue of December 17, 2012: The media needs to do a better job providing citizens with dependable, unbiased information. Regarding the latest conflict in Gaza, Israel only decided to fight back after Hamas attacks became unbearable.
