| The Kensington Review |
8 November 2004 |
|
Latest Commentary:
Democrats Should Spend Four Years Voting “Nay” -- One of the difficulties with large voter turnout is the massive misunderstanding of just what an election in a democratic society means. Many of John Kerry’s first-time voters feel defeated and may withdraw from political participation. That would be as foolish as withdrawing from a football game after losing the coin-toss. The game of politics only begins now that the election is over. Northeast England Votes “No” on Regional Assembly -- Tony Blair has done more good for the British constitutional structure than any of his 20th Century predecessors. However, there comes a point when one as reformed as much as one ought. Last Thursday, his over-reach was spotted and reversed by the people of Northeast England, who decided they didn’t want the regional assembly he had offered them. By a vote of 78% to 22%. If he won’t resign for taking his country into a war without just cause, perhaps he can at least quit tinkering with the constitution now. Merck Should Have Pulled Vioxx Years Ago -- When the Vioxx story first broke, this journal praised Merck for quickly responding to the news that its pain-killer could also be a patient-killer. One of the joys of journalism is the timeliness of the writing. One of the great trade-offs, though, comes in acquiring a thorough knowledge of the facts. It now seems that the support of Merck’s actions in an earlier report here was premature and wrong. According to Swiss scientists, there was more than enough evidence four years ago for Merck to remove the drug from the market. It didn’t. New York May Boost Gifted and Talented Education -- There is an unpleasant fact that runs counter to the great equality myth in Western Civilization. There really are people out there who are smarter than average. Some by just a little, and a few by lots. It is amusing that, in a culture that talks about “excellence” until its blue in the face, genuine genius is discouraged – “if you’re so smart, how come you ain’t rich, nerd boy?” New York City is on the verge of actively encouraging teaching to the needs and interests of the smartest kids in the city thanks to a bill in the City Council authored by Councilman Lew Fidler (D-Brooklyn), which would set aside 10% of city school seats for gifted and talented students. |
|
Links |
Amazon.com |
Archives |
Contact us |