Just how relevant is political science? Even critics of Sen. Tom Coburn’s proposal acknowledge that political scientists themselves vigorously debate the field’s direction. The crisis of public management: Jeffrey Sachs on the failing U.S. government and why nothing less than an overhaul of the systems that implement federal policies will suffice. Against transparency: Lawrence Lessig on the perils of openness in government (and more). Thomas Frank on the "predator state": It is corporate power, not the government, that we need to worry about. From ex-lobbyist to market watchdog: Why is an ex-lobbyist for an Enron-like firm that manipulated energy prices in line to be a top regulator? Spectacular sellout: As a politician, Dick Gephardt was a champion of progressive reform — now he lobbies for its enemies. From Supreme Allied Commander to ethanol front man: A look at the strange journey of Wesley Clark. Eliot Spitzer on why the U.S. Chamber of Commerce must be stopped — here's how to do it (and more). James Surowiecki on how climate change is shaking up business lobbying. The new progressive CEOs: In a recession, there are few global-warming-denying libertarians in the boardroom. The Obama Recession: When do we stop blaming Bush for the bad economy? Conservatives claim the stimulus has already failed, but it has barely started. Desperate Times: How to stimulate the economy without passing another stimulus. We can afford a second stimulus: As long as unemployment remains high, and interest rates are at rock-bottom lows, the prudent thing for government to do is keep on spending.
