Portside

We need a moral movement to create change.

The U.S. government, following the 9/11 attacks, expressed no intention of reforming its Constitution. It was left free of any procedure for exception or emergency. This does not mean that the United States has remained a more democratic country than France. Attacks against privacy, civil rights, and, above all, habeas corpus have proven even more virulent in the United States than in Europe.

In theory, mathematics is neutral – two plus two equals four regardless of what anyone wishes the answer was. But in practice, mathematical algorithms can be formulated and tweaked based on powerful interests.

Backed by the World Bank and billionaires Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg, Bridge International has launched a massive campaign to privatize public education in Africa. Despite charges the U.S. corporation is experimenting on African children, violating the constitution in at least two African countries, and providing inferior education, Bridge International is undaunted, even suing the government of Uganda for closing down 63 of its for-profit schools earlier this year.

The restraining order was filed in response to a lawsuit filed by Governor-elect Roy Cooper, who said the new law would limit voters’ access to the ballot box.

For now, it will be up to states and cities to protect workers.

Is the two-state solution for Israel-Palestine still viable? Perhaps it is time to admit, in the spirit of Voltaire, that the two-state solution was never about two states, nor was it a solution, nor could it ever be viable.

I grew up going to a Korean church in Germany, learning all about kindness, sharing, and helping each other in a wonderfully warm, communal, and nourishing space. That really had a positive impact on me (in addition to my socialist parents!).

New Year's coming, a moment for memories, and a gift seldom appreciated until a person has lost the ability. Poet Jennifer L. Knox's Auld Lang Syne points to a sad irony.

A look at Obama's core philosophy, his political appeal and accomplishments, his limitations and the constraints under which he governed.