In Nigeria, the quest for a 'humane Shariah'

Is Shariah compatible with Western democracy?

http://www.iht.com/articles/2007/12/01/africa/01shariah.php#end_main

The Death of French Culture

Fascinating article on the sustainability of culture. What parallels can be made about "American" culture?

http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1686532-1,00.html

Why Science Can't Save the GOP

Stem cell research is a very controversial topic. I still, however, believe there has to be other options. The discovery a few weeks ago is a good step forward.

Personalizing an issue and appealing for sympathy does not make the argument stronger.

http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1688769,00.html

Chavez: A Democratator in Venezuela?

Very interesting article with insight into not only Venezuela's democratic struggle, but the apparent leftist turn of Latin America.

http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1689338,00.html

Good morning, Vietnam

Vietnam has been a model in South Asia in recent years. It has emerged as a strong economic power and even signed a trade deal with the US. Democracy is emerging in the once war-torn, Communist country.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2007/11/30/europe/abroad.php

Colombia seizes videos of hostages

In light of the ongoing struggle with the FARC and all of the challenges and temptations facing Colombia, the nation has still managed to retain democracy at its fundamental political culture. It should serve as a model for Latin America, especially those nations flirting with socialism.

This story only demonstrates the hardships both the Colombian government and people are experiencing and their resolute spirit against narco-terrorism.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2007/11/30/europe/abroad.php

Culture is the next front in Russia's struggle for democracy

Russia has had a difficult transition to democracy since the collapse of the USSR. With Putin in charge, it seems that Russia is still living under Stalin's shadow.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2007/11/30/europe/abroad.php

EU 'disappointed' by Iran talks

Nuclear proliferation will and has become the predominant threat to freedom. Is Iran justified in obtaining weapons?

http://www.iht.com/articles/2007/11/30/africa/iran.php#end_main

Giuliani touts statistics, but often misses mark

Campaigning has become so focused on sound bytes that the real issues and quality of the candidates is being jeopardized.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2007/11/30/america/giuliani.php

Sudan protesters: Execute teacher

When does Islamic law go too far?

http://www.cnn.com/2007/WORLD/africa/11/30/sudan.bears/index.html

A payoff for Syrians: Seats at the table, at least

Talking to Syria is important as long as the US does not compromise its policy intiatives and values.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2007/11/30/africa/30diplo.php?page=2#end_copy

A new push to roll back 'don't ask, don't tell'

Controversial topic to say the least. It was also a subject of a YouTube question at Wednesday's Republican Candidates' debate.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2007/11/30/america/30military.php#end_copy

Tough test at polls for Chavez

Chavez is by far the most intriguing caudillo in Latin America of recent memory. The question is, how far will he go to maintain his authoritarian grip and lead Venezuela into a socialist venture not compatible with today's world?

http://www.iht.com/articles/2007/11/29/america/venez.php

General transport strike stalls Italy

First it was France, then Germany, now Italy. How does anyone get around in Europe these days?

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2007/11/30/europe/EU-GEN-Italy-Transport-Strike.php#end_copy

In India's north, the worst place to be born a girl

Ah...the clash of tradition and modernity.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2007/11/30/asia/girls.php

U.S. food banks, in a squeeze, tighten belts

Interesting article on the shortage of donations to food banks.

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2007/11/30/europe/EU-GEN-Italy-Transport-Strike.php#end_main

Iraq lacks plan on the return of refugees, military says

Though signs of progress are evident in the return of displaced Iraqis, what difference does it make if the government is not ready to take them in? Here lies the frustration of not only our able military, but our government and more importanty, the American people.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2007/11/30/africa/30refugees.php#end_copy