The course of human events
What good is U.S. diplomacy with Russia? Can democracy live with huge laws passed by just a few votes? & Is it finally dead in Hong Kong? … + The weird end of the U.S.-China trade war. Why Americans are losing interest in news. Music from Michael Gordon. &c. … The member’s despatch, Week XXVII.
Alternative history
What does Germany’s new military expansion mean for Europe? Liana Fix on Berlin’s mission to build the Continent’s most powerful army.
Continental
How has Europe become the destination for so much dirty money—and what are European states doing about it? Tena Prelec on why it is so hard to root out grand corruption.
War and peace
Why didn’t China or Russia help Iran? What on Earth is “the West”? New music from Four Tet, Mary Halvorson, & Amon Tobin. + What’s a pandeiro? &c. … The member’s despatch, Week XXVI.
The new atomic age
Why are China and Russia dominating nuclear energy? Ashley Finan on its emerging role in shaping global power.
Help wanted
Why are millions more Americans turning to talk therapy—and sticking with it? Carlos Blanco on the decline of a stigma, a shift in health coverage, and the individualization of treatment.
Brave new world
Is political violence in America really getting worse? Why are the ultra-wealthy buying more and larger superyachts? + New music from Neggy Gemmy, Yumi Zouma, & Buscabulla. Who is Bad Bunny? &c. … The member’s despatch, Week XXV.
Coming like a ghost town
Why is production declining in Hollywood? Patrick Adler on the short-term disruptions and long-term trends transforming an industry.
Cold cash
What do you do if you’re the European Union, and you’re sitting on more than $200 billion belonging to the Kremlin? Sir William Browder on a potential turning point in the Ukraine war.
Turning points
What’s been holding back those U.S.-Iran nuclear talks? What’s happening to democracy in Mexico? + New music from Ben LaMar Gay and Baxter Dury. What’s so important about Sly Stone and Brian Wilson? &c. … The member’s despatch, Week XXIV.
