Somehow, we have reached the point where we view democracy and elections as ends in themselves. But they aren't.

Leaders know that there's nothing as disruptive as information.

What are we to make of the news that career State Department staffers are refusing to go to Iraq?

Contrary to Al Gore's predictions, our current lack of hurricanes is causing significant problems.

Are boaters deliberately trying to kill manatees?

It's a far better thing, as well as much easier, for government to act to prevent a disaster, or at least to warn residents loudly and clearly of the potential consequences of their foolish choices.

Why such a difference between the handling of the California fires, vs Katrina in New Orleans?

These bridges have needed fixing for 25 years and they're still operating?

It does seem slightly odd that the famous Nobel Peace Prize should go to someone who is famous, more or less, for talking loudly.

Somewhere in the Great Beyond, Hermann Goering is laughing.