Culture: Poet Laureate bemoans the lack of understanding of some of the basic founts of western culture.

Finance: apparently people are worried that the U.S. government may start nationalizing banks. Given the new U.S. president, and the American stimulus package, should this be a surprise?

Development: Despite our hopes that the internet would allow developing countries to take part in scientific development, a study finds that isn’t always the case.

Free Speech: People are blowing this story out of proportion. Given the problems inherent in balancing rights with the public good, it’s not surprising some people make mistakes.