Voting is not optional in 23 countries. Here’s why the United States should become the 24th
SCOTUS Spotting: How the Next President Could Change the Supreme Court
Romney or Obama could significantly change the makeup of the highest court in the land — and the rules on everything from gun control to abortion rights
Undecided? Election 2012 is Up To You
The numbers say that every vote will count—and the race will be determined by a handful of voters.
Cartoons of the Week: August 11–17
Obama puts Biden in the corner, and Romney puts Ryan front and center
Don’t Let Paul Ryan Become a Religious Lightning Rod
The selection of Paul Ryan has intensified the fight between conservative and liberal Catholics, but branding politicians as “un-Christian” can be bad religion
Paul Ryan’s Grand Vision
Maybe the GOP’s vice-presidential pick has a plan for the well-off, but what about everyone else?
Why Gadgets Are Great for Introverts
Critics argue that wireless communication is a poor substitute for social interaction, but our wired world gives voice to the quieter half of the population
Workplace Woes: The ‘Open’ Office Is a Hotbed of Stress
Lack of privacy is the least of it. Research shows that open-plan offices sap motivation and create “cognitive load”
Gastrocrats Beware: Luxury Foods Aren’t Worth It
Very few of us can actually appreciate the most expensive dishes and ingredients
Is Paul Ryan’s Budget ‘Un-Christian’?
Jesus believed in a tax rate of at least 50 percent. So how does Paul Ryan’s budget proposal stand up?
Who Is the Better Communicator: Romney or Obama?
An analysis of the candidates’ speeches reveals some important linguistic distinctions
Take Hate off the Plate
A renowned chef (and fried-chicken fan) responds to Chick-fil-A’s opposition to gay marriage
Paul Ryan: An Inspired Choice That Says “We Can Fix This”
Romney’s surprising selection has galvanized a Republican party that was starting to despair