Caretaker politics

We are familiar with the idea of a caretaker government—an interim leadership that exists mainly to keep things in place, maintain stability, and avoid risks that might unsettle the prevailing order. When this minimalist approach comes to characterize nearly the whole political system, however, we may speak more broadly of caretaker politics. This is where … Read more

The perils of American exceptionalism

Over the eight decades since the end of the Second World War, an international order gradually took shape in which individual nations, large and small, could find their place and pursue development under a shared framework of rules. Through international bodies, treaties, and norms, countries were given at least a fighting chance to flourish. The … Read more

The world we seek to understand

Born shortly after the end of the World War II, my generation has long considered itself fortunate not to have known, let alone fought in, a world war. But no one can be sure anymore how long this fragile peace can endure. My sense is that the major powers are again sleepwalking toward war in … Read more

When corruption could no longer hide

The year 2025 will likely be remembered as a turning point in our nation’s history—a moment when corruption reached such magnitude that it could no longer be concealed or excused. Its scale and consequences became so damaging to the public good that denial itself ceased to be plausible. For decades, corruption in public office had … Read more