Around the Nation
Snail Mail May Arrive More Slowly. Will It Matter?
[30 min 19 sec]
December 7, 2011
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'Gossip': It's Salacious, Yes, But Never Trivial
()Joseph Epstein has already traced the history and practice of snobbery and envy. In his new book, Gossip: The Untrivial Pursuit, he turns his attention to one of humanity's oldest endeavors: Our deep desire to hear — and share — the secrets of others, even if we feel guilty about doing so.
Recent Interviews
Author Interviews
Richard Branson: Time To Rethink 'Business As Usual'
December 1, 2011 Richard Branson has built a global business empire around the philosophy "have fun and the money will come." The founder of Virgin Group now argues that it's time to rethink the way businesses function. In his new book, Screw Business As Usual, he says there's a way to make money and also do good.
Theater
How Cirque Du Soleil Reinvented The Big-Top Show
November 17, 2011 Since Cirque du Soleil was founded in 1984, it has grown from a troupe of street performers in Montreal to a billion-dollar entertainment business. Today, the company has more than 20 different shows in its repertoire.
Music News
Lamenting The Loss Of Local Rock Radio
November 17, 2011 Rock music on FM radio faces more competition than ever. With iPods, satellite radio and online streaming, many companies have given up on rock music to boost ratings and revenue. But former Chicago DJ Christine Pawlak says there will always be an important role for rock on the radio.
Author Interviews
How 'The West' Beat 'The Rest' With Six 'Killer Apps'
November 2, 2011 Historians have long struggled to explain how the West became the preeminent political and economic force in the modern world. In Civilization, historian Niall Ferguson credits six "killer apps" and explains how China is quickly catching on — and catching up.
