What’s driven Qatar’s extravagant spending for this year’s World Cup? Sarath K. Ganji on a powerful strategy for global influence and the subtle tactics of “sportswashing.”

What does the outcome of the U.S. midterm elections say about the country’s changing political life? Bill Scher on the end of one election cycle and the beginning of the next.

What does the outcome of the U.S. midterm elections have to do with the future of democracy in America? J.J. Gould on political realities, conspiracy stories, and the new media ecosystem.

What does Xi Jinping’s growing power mean for China and the world? Scott Kennedy on the historic expansion and potential limits of the Chinese president’s authority.