David Brooks's Blog, page 78

The Big Burn

After neglect from the United States, the Sunni-Shiite conflict explodes in Iraq.

The New Right

A new manifesto from a group of reform conservatives is the most coherent and compelling policy agenda the American right has produced this century.

President Obama Was Right

National solidarity is essential to the health of the country. And President Obama’s prisoner swap for Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl nurtured that sentiment.

The Art of Focus

The secret to winning the internal battle against distraction is not to say “no” to trivial things but to say “yes” to powerful longings.

The Autocracy Challenge

President Obama laid out his approach to dealing with aggressive autocratic rulers this week, but his vision is ill-suited for the challenge.

Really Good Books, Part II

A few more book recommendations: Athenian books to invigorate the audacious spirit, and religious and literary books to probe the conscience and heart.

Really Good Books, Part I

Some of my favorite books are about the deep limitations we face in life, from circumstances that defy comprehension to passions we cannot control.

The Big Debate

Only by returning to its roots can American democracy prevail against the efficiency of new, booming autocracies.

Stairway to Wisdom

To investigate social problems, nothing can replace the knowledge gained through relationships.

The Problem With Confidence

The best advice for self-confidence is not “believe in yourself” but rather “look at what you’ve done in the world.”