Search

Byline: William Galston From the Senate impeachment trial to the Iowa caucuses fiasco to religious leaders' scandalous behavior, the evidence of institutional malfunction is ubiquitous. Why is this happening? What [...]

The article discusses the concept of new beginnings in the context of New Year's Day, emphasizing the idea that history shapes our present and limits what is possible for the future. It explores the imperfections of human nature and the importance of tolerance and charity in society. The text also delves into religious perspectives on human nature and societal transformation, highlighting the need to accept and work with our flaws rather than seeking perfection. [Extracted from the article]

Higher education in the U.S. is facing a crisis as public confidence in university-trained experts and the meritocracy system wanes due to elite failures in recent years. The political landscape has shifted based on education levels, with working-class voters, including Hispanics and blacks, moving towards the GOP. Confidence in higher education has declined among Republicans, leading to potential challenges for colleges and universities under the new administration. Proposed measures include ending government loans for graduate students and linking student aid to institutional policies on diversity, equity, and inclusion. To address these challenges, institutions are advised to focus on institutional neutrality, expand alliances with local institutions, and refocus on their civic mission to promote the common good. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses President Ronald Reagan's vision of promoting freedom and democracy worldwide, which led to the creation of the National Endowment for Democracy in 1983. The organization has supported pro-democracy leaders and groups globally, aiding in transitions to democracy and fostering democratic civil cultures. Despite bipartisan support, the organization is now facing potential defunding, which some argue is misguided as it serves U.S. national interests by promoting freedom and democracy. Critics suggest folding the organization's appropriation into other agencies, but this is deemed impractical due to the endowment's unique capabilities and global networks. The article advocates for preserving the National Endowment for Democracy to uphold freedom and peace worldwide. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the economic-policy contradictions of President-elect Donald Trump, focusing on how some of his promises, such as lowering prices and cutting taxes, may conflict with each other. For example, eliminating taxes on Social Security benefits could lead to insolvency in programs like Social Security and Medicare. Additionally, Trump's strategy to cut energy costs in half may face opposition from the fossil-fuel industry and energy experts. The article highlights the challenges Trump may face in fulfilling his promises and the potential tensions within his agenda. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses how the Hewlett Foundation funded efforts to develop an alternative to neoliberalism, a paradigm focused on free markets and limited government. The Biden administration adopted significant departures from neoliberalism, including industrial policy and a shift away from free trade. However, the administration's economic strategy led to inflation, which ultimately undermined its electoral prospects. The article highlights the importance of economic policies that can attract a multiracial coalition and pass the test of public approval. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the impact of education levels on voter preferences, highlighting that voters without college degrees tend to lean more Republican. It also notes that President Trump made gains among various nonwhite groups and young voters in the 2024 election. The text challenges Democratic assumptions about demographic trends and suggests the party needs to reflect and reform to appeal to a broader base of voters. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the author's Shabbat prayers for the presidential election, emphasizing the importance of a peaceful transfer of power and responsible leadership. It highlights the potential outcomes of the election and the need for both sides to handle disappointment maturely to preserve constitutional democracy. The author also addresses issues such as the national debt, China's threat, and the imbalance between global commitments and resources, urging for a realistic and responsible approach to politics. [Extracted from the article]

Byline: William A. Galston Center-left political analysts want to believe that economic stagnation and income inequality form the heart of the contemporary populist surge, but the evidence does not bear [...]