The best quotes and thoughts on Vladimir Putin — and how Russian democracy has fared under him.

How have U.S. hawks managed to interpret history to their advantage?

Has Europe replaced the United States in setting international standards?

How did Sweden develop from an economic backwater into a powerhouse?

Can John Kerry get the Europeans to help more in Iraq?

Has global integration made us less — or more — secure?

How has increased diversification benefited Latin America’s economies?

Which countries and regions are most affected by illicit drugs?

How can companies promote sustainable globalization?

Which country did best at the Athens Olympics?