Hot Java / Swing / JSP How-Tos
How To: Create a simple image gallery with JavaScript
How To: Program advanced arrays in Java
How To: Install the Java Development Kit to start programming
Java / Swing / JSP
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBoston will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to build a list of display modes. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBoston will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to to troubleshoot errors and exceptions when writing code in the Java programming language. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBoston will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to use common string methods when writing code in the Java programming language. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBoston will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to to load graphic images when writing code in the Java programming language. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBoston will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to to create and use arrays when writing code in the Java programming language. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
How To: Create drop-down lists when programming in Java
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBoston will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to create GUI drop-down lists for your applets when writing code in the Java programming language. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
How To: Write a Java applet that accepts keyboard input
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBoston will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to to accept key inputs from a user when writing code in the Java programming language. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
How To: Create a full-screen frame when programming in Java
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBoston will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to to create a full-screen frame when writing code in the Java programming language. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
How To: Create multiple selection list for Java development
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBoston will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to to create a multiple selection list when writing code in the Java programming language. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBoston will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to use the Collection framework when writing code in the Java programming language. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBoston will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to use accept mouse input from a user in a Java applet. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBoston will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to work with conditional operators when writing code in the Java programming language. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBoston will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to handle key events when writing code in the Java programming language. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
How To: Create multiple constructors in a single class in Java
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBoston will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to use multiple constructors within a single class when writing code in the Java programming language. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBoston will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to use conditional while loops when writing code in the Java programming language. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBoston will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to relate classes via composition when writing code in the Java programming language. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
How To: Create a "for loop" in Java programming
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBoston will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to use build and use conditional for loops when writing code in the Java programming language. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
How To: Convert arrays and lists for Java programming
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBoston will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to convert arrays to lists and lists to arrays when writing code in the Java programming language. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBoston will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to make a variable-length argument list when writing code in Java. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBoston will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to create a class to store objects when programming in Java. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBoston will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to create and use else-if statements when writing code in Java. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
How To: Convert military time to standard time for Java
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBoston will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to write a simple Java applet to convert military time (i.e., 24-hour clock time) to standard (i.e., 12-hour clock) time. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
How To: Make a graphical user interface (GUI) for Java
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBoston will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to build a simple graphical user interface (GUI) when writing code in the Java programming language. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBostonian will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to store multiple objects in an array when writing code in the Java programming language. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
How To: Store counters in an array index when Java programming
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBostonian will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to store variables in an array index when writing code in the Java programming language. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBostonian will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to write a simple application to calculate compound interest. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBostonian will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses adapter classes and how to use them when writing code in the Java programming language. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
How To: Make a JComboBox for Java programming
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBostonian will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to work with JComboBox dropdown lists to create GUI drop-down lists when writing code in the Java programming language. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
How To: Pass arrays into methods for Java programming
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBostonian will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to pass an array into a method when writing code in the Java programming language. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBostonian will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to implement and use the JColorChooser control pane when writing code in the Java programming language. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBostonian will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to build a custom time class in the Java programming language. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
How To: Write a "Hello, World" program using Java
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBostonian will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to build and compile a simple "Hello, World" program writing code in the Java programming language. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBostonian will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to build objects for multiple constructors when writing code in Java. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBostonian will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to write that most basic of applications, a "Hello, World" program. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBostonian will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to easily provide instructors to your classes when writing in Java. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBostonian will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to generate random numbers in a Java application. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
How To: Get file info with the file class in Java programming
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBostonian will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to utilize Java's file class to retrieve information about an external file. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBostonian will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to easily generate a text (txt) file from within a Java application. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
How To: Sum the elements of an array for Java programming
Want to program your own Java games and applications but don't know beans about object-oriented programming? Never you fear. This free video tutorial from TheNewBostonian will have you coding your own Java apps in no time flat. Specifically, this lesson discusses how to how to sum all of the elements contained in a given array. For more information, including detailed, step-by-step instructions, watch this helpful programmer's guide.
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AES+F
THE FEAST OF TRIMALCHIO
Exhibition view
In the 'Satyricon', the work of the great wit and melancholic lyric poet of Nero's reign, Gaius Petronius Arbiter, the best preserved part is 'The Feast of Trimalchio' (Cena Trimalchionis). Thanks to Petronius's fantasy, Trimalchio's name became synonymous with wealth and luxury, with gluttony and with unbridled pleasure in contrast to the brevity of human existence.
We searched for an analogue in the third millennium and Trimalchio, the former slave, the nouveau riche host of feasts lasting several days, appeared to us not so much as an individual as a collective image of a luxurious hotel, a temporary paradise which one has to pay to enter.
The hotel guests, the 'masters', are from the land of the Golden Billion. They're keen to spend their time, regardless of the season, as guests of the present-day Trimalchio, who has created the most exotic and luxurious hotel possible. The hotel miraculously combines a tropical coastline with a ski resort. The 'masters' wear white which calls to mind the uniform of the righteous in the Garden of Eden, or traditional colonial dress, or a summer fashion collection. The 'masters' possess all of the characteristics of the human race – they are all ages and types and from all social backgrounds. Here is the university professor, the broker, the society beauty, the intellectual. Trimalchio's 'servants' are young, attractive representatives of all continents who work in the vast hospitality industry as housekeeping staff, waiters, chefs, gardeners, security guards and masseurs. They are dressed in traditional uniforms with an ethnic twist. The 'servants' resemble the brightly-colored angels of a Garden of Eden to which the 'masters' are only temporarily admitted. On one hand the atmosphere of 'The Feast of Trimalchio' can be seen as bringing together the hotel rituals of leisure and pleasure (massage and golf, the pool and surfing). On the other hand the 'servants' are more than attentive service-providers. They are participants in an orgy, bringing to life any fantasy of the 'masters', from gastronomic to erotic. At times the 'masters' unexpectedly end up in the role of 'servants'. Both become participants in an orgiastic gala reception, a dinner in the style of Roman saturnalia when slaves, dressed as patricians, reclined at table and their masters, dressed in slaves' tunics, served them.
Every so often the delights of 'The Feast of Trimalchio' are spoiled by catastrophes which encroach on the Global Paradise…
AES+F, 2009
Translated by Ruth Addison
Via Piossasco 29/B
10152, Torino, Italy


Trade deals and reform of WTO are better than trade wars -- EU's Tusk
Trade deals and the reform of WTO are better than trade wars. Trade wars will lead to recession, while trade deals will boost economy, said Donald Tusk, president of the European Council, on Saturday. He called for putting a stop to trade wars, Trend reports citing Xinhua.
"Trade wars among G7 members will lead to eroding the already weakened trust among us," he said during a press conference prior to the G7 summit.
U.S. President Donald Trump tweeted Friday that the U.S. will raise existing duties on 250 billion dollar of Chinese products from 25 percent to 30 percent beginning on Oct. 1, and another 300 billion dollar worth of Chinese imports will see tariff rise from 10 percent to 15 percent on Sept. 1.
If Trump uses tariffs for political reasons it would be risky to the whole world, including the European Union, Tusk told reporters.
China is firmly opposed to the U.S. announcement that it will further raise the tariffs on about 550 billion U.S. dollars of Chinese imports, said a spokesperson of the Ministry of Commerce (MOC) Saturday.
"Such unilateral and bullying acts of trade protectionism and extreme pressure run counter to the consensus of the heads of state of China and the United States, and run counter to the principles of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit," the spokesperson said.
"China strongly urges the United States not to misjudge the situation, or underestimate the determination of the Chinese people. It must immediately stop its erroneous practices, or bear all the consequences," the spokesperson said.
Besides China, the U.S. is currently at loggerheads with many countries, including G7 alliance from trade to security. Threatening Germany with car tariffs, Trump vowed to tax French wines if Paris levies digital tax on big U.S. technology companies; Casting Canada as a trade villain who "robs U.S. blindly", he also sniffed at the European integration by encouraging Brexit with a "great trade deal" with London; Withdrawal from the Paris climate accord and the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty one after another, he even showed his willingness to pull out some American forces in Germany unless Berlin increases defense spending to the 2-percent GDP threshold.
French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday treated his G7 colleagues in France's luxurious seaside resort Biarritz, a long-time summer playground of Europe's elites, to tackle rising global inequality.
In its 45 years, the club of wealth countries is facing unity crisis, with its pride and influence going downhill. With his America First policy, Trump has turned the G7 into a "G6 vs G1" game. The embarrassment was vividly told by a picture taken during the Quebec summit in Canada last year, showing Trump sitting with arms crossed in a defensive posture while German Chancellor Angela Merkel, centered by the other G7 leaders, leaned across the table at him.
Meanwhile, as every member has been mired in different sort of problems -- be it political, partisan, economic, societal or diplomatic -- the "top student club" is drastically losing its charm, legitimacy and even capability in providing global leadership.
"This is another G7 summit which will be a difficult test of unity and solidarity of the free world and its leaders. There is still no certainty whether the group will be able to find common solutions, and the global challenges are today really serious, or whether it will focus on senseless disputes among each other," Tusk told reporters at the conference.
"The last years have shown that it is increasingly difficult for all of us to find common language when the world needs our cooperation more, not less. This may be the last moment to restore our political community," he warned.


Two views on assisting fragile states to achieve sustainable development (05/12/2015)
Ambassador Hanada finds Timor-Leste in a critical stage of transition to sustainable development, while Crown Agent staff Ms. Saito advocates the result based financing (RBF).
Gaimusho Deputy D-G Takizaki explains ownership claimed by China, the Philippines, Vietnam for islands in the South China Sea (11/07/2015)
Mr. Shigeki Takizaki, Deputy Director-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan made an informative presentation on territorial disputes in the South China Sea. Both island and maritime claims are made by several states including the People's Republic of China, the Republic of China (Taiwan), Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam. Their disputes concern in particular both the Spratly and the Paracel islands. The interests of different nations include securing fishing areas around the archipelagos; the potential exploitation of crude oil and natural gas under the waters of various parts of the South China Sea.
Ambassador Kenzo Oshima on the Prospect for UN Reform (16/06/2015)
Ambassador Oshima in his one-hour presentation to the participants of a peacebuilding seminar held at Hosei University on May 30, 2015 appraised some important achievements made in the 'Outcome Document' of September 2005, on the occasion of the summit meeting commemorating the UN 50th anniversary. They included the establishment of Peace-building Commission (PBC), the Human Rights Council (UNHRC), and the formal launching of new concepts such as 'Responsibility to Protect' and 'Human Security'. (Click here for the rest.)
[PRAJ] Religion and Proactive Pacifism Discussed in Peacebuilding Seminar (14/03/2015)
Moderated by Professors Kurosawa and Yonekawa, Emmi Okada and Raymond Yamamoto made presentations on "Religion and Peacebuilding" and "Proactive Pacifism" on 14th March 2015 in the seminar of the Peacebuilding Research Association of Japan (PRAJ) held at Hosei University Graduate School Building. Valuable comments were made by Professors Higashi, Sakurai, and so forth. This seminar was organized by Professor Katsumi Ishizuka, Secretary-General of the PRAJ.
[PRSJ] "Comfort Women" Debated by Three Experts (31/01/2015)
At the seminar held at Hosei University on 31 January 2015 and participated by about 30 scholars, researchers and students, three experts. Professor Takaaki Mizuno of the Kanda University of International Studies, Assistant Professor Naoko Kumagai of the International University and Ms. Momoyo Ise, former Executive Director of the Asian Women's Fund, presented their views on issues related to "comfort women" engaged by Japanese soldiers during the World War II. (Ishizuka)


Get Active and Stay Active
By Ashlee Godwin
Being healthy is important and exercise is a big part of it. There are many options to get in shape from teams and gyms to fitness classes.
College of Southern Nevada's Sports Center has a variety of options. "The main goal is to involve faculty, staff, and students and to motivate them to work out more and to create overall health and wellness," said Andrea Gonzalez, administrative assistant at CSN Sports Center.
Coyote Fitness Challenge is currently running through Nov. 20 to motivate students to get in shape. Students can participate by recording exercise they do and keeping track of their fitness goals for a total of eight weeks.
"Even if they are just running on a treadmill for eight weeks for the Challenge they are still going to see a difference and then feel better about themselves mentally and physically," Gonzalez said.
"I noticed just from friends that they are more aware of health and wellness and with all of these diseases, cancer and diabetes, I think eventually health and wellness will become an important part of peoples' lives," Gonzalez said.
There are also fitness classes offered at the Sports Center including Zumba and stretch fitness. The classes are meant for beginners so everyone is welcome to join. In order to participate in the classes, students will need a Sports Center membership that costs $20 per semester or $50 an academic year, which comes with a locker. The membership allows students access to classes and the gym with basketball, racquetball and weights.
Kevin Calma, a CSN student, said that he's not interested in going to a gym but prefers to play basketball for his fitness. "I don't play for the school team; I play for my own division at Tarkanian Basketball Academy. I come to the school gym to just shoot around and practice. This is the only work out that I actually enjoy."
For people that like to play sports for fun and need motivation from others but don't have money to join a team or gym, there is a website called Meetup.com. Meetup creates opportunities for people to connect with others who want to play pick-up games of basketball, softball, soccer, kickball and football. It even has groups for boot camps and hiking.
Other options include gyms like Las Vegas Athletic Club, 24 Hour Fitness or specialty programs such as CrossFit, a strength and conditioning program to improve cardiovascular endurance, speed and agility.
Chad Cole, owner of CrossFit Apollo, said, "CrossFit is a general physical preparedness program. The idea of it is we have 10 different fitness domains and our goal is to be as equally fit in all of those as possible. We want to be able to run a marathon while also being able to lift 500 pounds off the floor." It costs $110 to $130 a month on a one-year contract at CrossFit Apollo.
One of the keys to fitness is to keep it interesting. By considering the many options above, students can get in shape and enjoy it. For more information on fitness at CSN visit http://www.csn.edu/sportscenter/.
Filed Under: Sports Tagged With: Ashlee Godwin
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R-Rated Halloween Haunted Houses Freak People Out »


In the Margins
Who is Jerome Powell?
By CBS News
Jerome Powell, nominated yesterday by President Donald Trump to replace Janet Yellen as head of the Federal Reserve when her term ends in February, is a policy centrist likely to continue Yellen's cautious, pro-stimulus approach. He's set to be the first Fed chair in 40 years to not hold an economics PhD (he trained as a lawyer); he would be the richest central bank head ever, thanks to a successful career in investment banking and private equity; and he enjoys a modicum of bipartisan support. Read the original story from CBS News.
10 Things...Boards will face in 2023
As mutual fund board members look forward to 2023, which is just around the corner, they are faced with a number of challenges and tasks unique ...
A look at 20 years of fair valuation practices data
What started out as a vision to help key mutual fund stakeholders understand how evolutions in the capital markets, in governance practices, and in the regulators' ...
Top of the Agenda - Legal
'40 Act lawyers: GSAM settlement raises questions
The news on Tuesday that Goldman Sachs Asset Management agreed to pay $4 million to settle Securities and Exchange Commission charges related to how it manages ...
10 Things...We're thankful for this year
So much has happened in the world in the past several years that has (hopefully) made all of us think about what we have, while also ...


30552 - ADVANCED ANALYSIS AND OPTIMIZATION - MODULE 2
Department of Decision Sciences
Course taught in English
BAI (5 credits - II sem. - OB | MAT/05)
ALESSANDRO PIGATI
Classes: 27 (II sem.)
Class 27: ALESSANDRO PIGATI
Suggested background knowledge
For a fruitful and effective learning experience, it is recommended a preliminary knowledge of multivariable calculus (limits, partial derivatives, integrals), of vector spaces, of linear maps and of matrix calculus.
Mission & Content Summary
The purpose of this course is to present the foundation of unconstrained and convex optimization and basic results on the local structure of immersed differentiable manifolds and the corresponding constrained optimization. This is necessary in a challenging degree in Mathematical and Computing Sciences. The theories and applications encountered in this course will create a strong foundation for solving unconstrained and constrained optimization problem appearing in real-world and physical models.
CONTENT SUMMARY
Convex analysis and optimization:
Convex sets, convex functions, lower semicontinuity and closed epigraphs
Duality and Legendre-Fenchel transform
Subdifferential
Saddle points, the minimax theorem of Von Neumann, applications to game theory
Gradient flows
Surfaces and level sets, submanifolds, tangent spaces, parametrizations.
Inversion and implicit function theorem.
Critical points
Constrained optimization, Lagrange multipliers, saddle points.
Brouwer fixed point theorem and applications to Nash equilibria and game theory.
Intended Learning Outcomes (ILO)
At the end of the course student will be able to...
Know fundamental notions in convex analysis: convex sets, convex functions, lower semicontinuity, Legendre-Fenchel transform, subdifferential.
Express basic notions and results about convex optimization.
Understanding the relevance of the fundamental definitions and theorems about surfaces: submanifolds, tangent spaces, parametrizations, implicit function theorem.
Know the fundamental properties of constrained optimization problems.
APPLYING KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING
Solve constrained and unconstrained optimization problems.
Operate with objects and tools of convex analysis.
Make use of the presented methodological tools in applied sciences such as computer science and physics.
Face-to-face lectures
Exercises (exercises, database, software etc.)
Online lectures have the same conceptual role as face-to-face lectures. The actual blend of face- to-face lectures and online lectures will mainly depend on external constraints.
Exercise sessions (again: both face-to face and online) are dedicated to the application of the main theoretical results obtained during lectures to problems and exercises of various nature.
Continuous assessment
Partial exams
General exam
Written individual exam (traditional/online)
ATTENDING AND NOT ATTENDING STUDENTS
Students will be evaluated on the basis of written exams, which can be taken in one of the two following ways.
The exam can be split in two partial exams. Each partial may contain multiple-choice questions and open-answer questions; each partial weighs for one-half of the final mark. Multiple-choice questions mainly aim at evaluating the knowledge of the fundamental mathematical notions and the ability to apply these notions to the solution of simple problems and exercises, while open-answer questions mainly aim at evaluating:
The ability to articulate the knowledge of mathematical notions in a conceptually and formally correct way, adequately using definitions, theorems and proofs.
The ability to actively search for deductive ideas that are fit to prove possible links between the properties of mathematical objects.
The ability to apply mathematical notions to the solution of more complex problems and exercises.
The exam can also be taken as a single general exam, which contains both multiple-choice questions and open-answer questions. The general exam covers the whole syllabus of the course and it can be taken in one of the four general sessions scheduled in the academic year. This option is mainly meant for students who have withdrawn from the two-partials procedure or could not follow it. Each type of question contributes in a specific way to the assessment of the students' acquired knowledge. Multiple-choice questions mainly aim at evaluating the knowledge of the fundamental mathematical notions and the ability to apply these notions to the solution of simple problems and exercises, while open-answer questions and oral exams mainly aim at evaluating:
We will take care to obtain final grades whose distribution follows the grade distribution that is recommended by Università Bocconi.
M. Hiriart-Urruty, Jean-Baptiste; Lemaréchal, Claude. Fundamentals of convex analysis.
Grundlehren Text Editions. Springer-Verlag, Berlin, 2001. x+259 pp. ISBN: 3-540-42205-690-01
Boyd, Stephen; Vanderberghe, Lieven. Convex Optimization.
Cambridge University Press, 2004. ISBN: 9780521833783
https://web.stanford.edu/~boyd/cvxbook/
Giaquinta, Mariano; Modica, Giuseppe. Mathematical Analysis. An Introduction to Functions of Several Variables.
Birkhäuser Boston, Inc., Boston, MA, 2009. xx+465 pp. ISBN: 978-0-8176-4374-4; 0-8176-4374-5
Last change 15/12/2022 12:42


Hurricane Isaias Strengthens As It Approaches East Coast
August 4, 2020	News Daypop
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, __edited, Darwin Lobby, Don McLeroy, elected officials, Texas Senate, Texas State Board of E
Academic Freedom Action Alert
Audio File (3.4 mb)
https://chrt.fm/track/G42895/idthefuture.com/podcast-player/13171/309.mp3
Download file | Play in new window | Duration: 00:03:41 | Recorded on April 27, 2009 | Speaker: Casey Luskin
When elected officials take a stand for academic freedom, they become targets for the Darwin lobby. Because of his leadership and support for critical thinking on evolution, Texas State Board of Education Chair Don McLeroy has been targeted by Darwin's defenders in the Texas Senate who want to remove him from his position. Less than a month ago, the Texas Board adopted landmark science standards that will protect teachers who want to let students evaluate and critique the evidence for Darwinian evolution. Now Darwinists are trying to convince the state Senate to block McLeroy's reappointment as Board Chair.
"Supporting those, like Don McLeroy, who take a stand for academic freedom to question evolution at personal cost is one of the most important and effective things citizens can do," said CSC Associate Director John West. "It sends a message to elected officials that expelling leaders like Dr. McLeroy because of their stance on Darwin's theory is simply not acceptable."
Here's one thing you can do to help:
E-mail the chairman of the Senate Nominating Committee, Mike Jackson, at MIKE.JACKSON@SENATE.STATE.TX.US and tell him you support Dr. McLeroy as Chair of the State Board of Education. Be sure to e-mail the other committee members as well at these addresses: KEVIN.ELTIFE@SENATE.STATE.TX.US, GLENN.HEGAR@SENATE.STATE.TX.US, JANE.NELSON@SENATE.STATE.TX.US, ROBERT.NICHOLS@SENATE.STATE.TX.US, ELIOT.SHAPLEIGH@SENATE.STATE.TX.US, KIRK.WATSON@SENATE.STATE.TX.US.
We've included a sample letter below:
Dear [Committee Member],
I support Don McLeroy as Chair of the State Board of Education, and I urge you to confirm the governor's nomination and bring it before the Senate for a vote.
Don McLeroy is a proven leader in education for Texas students. It is reprehensible that he has been targeted for removal because he has dared to question evolution and encouraged young minds to remain open to critical examination of Darwin's theory. It is for this reason that Darwin's defenders are trying to expel Dr. McLeroy from his role as SBOE Chair, and I hope that you will hear those of us who stand by Dr. McLeroy and support him against this political bullying by Darwinist groups.
[Your Name]
Please stand with Don McLeroy and support academic freedom in Texas. Tell your friends and family, and let's show the Darwin-lobby that they cannot expel critical thinking from the science classroom.
Photo by Nathan Jacobson, © Discovery Institute (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Associate Director, Center for Science and Culture
Casey Luskin is a geologist and an attorney with graduate degrees in science and law, giving him expertise in both the scientific and legal dimensions of the debate over evolution. He earned his PhD in Geology from the University of Johannesburg, and BS and MS degrees in Earth Sciences from the University of California, San Diego, where he studied evolution extensively at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. His law degree is from the University of San Diego, where he focused his studies on First Amendment law, education law, and environmental law.
Follow Casey
Darwin Lobby
Don McLeroy
Texas Senate
Texas State Board of E
Evidence for Intelligent Design
On this episode of ID the Future, Casey Luskin responds to emails from students who want to know the scientific evidence for intelligent design. What do we really mean when we say that evolution is a scientific theory? Is there a positive case to be made for ID? Listen in and find …
Is the Panda's Thumb Really Proof of Evolution?
On this episode of ID The Future we're highlighting a short clip of senior fellow Dr. Paul Nelson describing his meeting with the late, famous defender of Darwinism, Stephen J. Gould, and whether or not the Panda's Thumb is obviously proof of …


Afghan Report: September 17, 2004
September 17, 2004 00:00 GMT
17 September 2004, Volume 3, Number 33
VIOLENCE IN HERAT COULD SIGNAL FINAL PHASE OF EFFORTS AGAINST ISMAIL KHAN
By Ron Synovitz
Experts on Afghanistan see the 12 September violence in the western city of Herat as the final phase of a long struggle between the central government and deposed Herat Province Governor Mohammad Ismail Khan.
The deaths of seven people during riots by Ismail Khan's supporters came a day after the powerful warlord was sacked as Herat governor by Afghan Transitional Administration Chairman Hamid Karzai (see news items below). But in fact, relations between Herat and Kabul have been souring for more than a year and a half over Ismail Khan's refusal to pay the central government millions of dollars in import duties that his militia fighters have collected on goods from Iran.
Since March, Ismail Khan's private militia also has battled several rival militia groups around Herat. In August, Ismail Khan lost his ability to generate import-duty revenue. That's because militias like that of his longtime rival, the ethnic Pashtun commander Amanullah Khan, surrounded Herat and effectively cut the city off from key transit routes and a strategic airport.
Supporters of Ismail Khan stormed the gates of a UN compound in Herat before looting and burning the offices there. It was one of six compounds attacked by the angry crowd on 12 September.
John Sifton, a researcher for the U.S.-based group Human Rights Watch, has been reporting on the behavior of Ismail Khan and his militia forces for years. "Factors have been coming together and there is no simple explanation for how we got to where we are now," he told RFE/RL. "One thing that is clear is that Ismail Khan's power has been diminished over the last few months -- not only by advances of [his longtime rival, commander] Amanullah Khan, but by dissension of his own commanders who understand that in the long term, they may have a better chance of holding onto power by joining with the Kabul-based government of Hamid Karzai."
Sifton said there is no doubt that Ismail Khan was severely weakened by a series of military setbacks in recent months that have brought his rivals to the outskirts of Herat (see "RFE/RL Afghanistan Report," 25 March and 12, 18, and 26 August 2004). But he also notes that Ismail Khan has a proven ability to make a comeback from seemingly hopeless situations.
"It is clear that he is not as strong as he was, otherwise none of this would have been possible. On the other hand, the fact that these supporters of his took to the streets and, with relative impunity, attacked six different compounds -- it either means that there's a lot of chaos on the streets or that he continues to have power. But either way, the situation is pretty fluid. And we will see in the next few days which way it goes," Sifton said.
But Ahmed Rashid, the author of the critically acclaimed book "Taliban," told RFE/RL that he thinks the events of 12 September mark the beginning of the end of Ismail Khan's time as the ruler of a self-styled fiefdom in western Afghanistan. "I think [these protests against Ismail Khan's sacking] will blow over," Rashid said. "And I think most people in Herat will be quite happy to have a new governor [Sayyed Ahmad Khairkhwah]. But it will take a bit of time. [Ismail Khan] can be a spoiler over the next few weeks. And he can certainly create problems. But I don't think he is going to be able to create major problems. And I think [the street demonstrations] will die down. I don't think there is that kind of public support for him. I'm sure he will be now watched very closely as to what he does."
Rashid rejected the analysis of observers who suggest Karzai sacked Ismail Khan to show voters that he will be a strong against warlords if he is elected on 9 October. "Clearly the timing is bad. And I don't think this is Karzai's timing. I think Karzai was very keen to get rid of Ismail Khan as early as May of 2003," he said. "What we did not have [in the past] was American backing for that move. The recent clashes between Ismail Khan and the Pashtun warlord Amanullah have finally made the Americans wake up to the fact that they have to back Karzai -- they have to back the Afghan government -- in getting rid of these warlords. So I think the timing has really been forced upon them -- upon the Americans. Whereas the Afghans have been quite supportive of wanting to get rid of [Ismail Khan] for more than a year."
The "Financial Times" of London on 13 September noted that local residents of Herat city have accused Pashtun government officials of orchestrating an August attack on Herat by Amanullah Khan. The newspaper notes that one unnamed Afghan government official has said that the allegation held some truth.
"This is an accusation that Ismail Khan has made," Rashid said. "And I think certainly some of the leading ministers -- the reformists -- are Pashtuns in the finance and economic side in the government. They have been pushing Karzai very hard to get rid of Ismail Khan. But I don't think that really implicates these ministers in trying to rouse Pashtuns to join Amanullah and force [Ismail Khan] out through force."
Rashid explained that the Afghan Finance and Economy ministries have been trying for years to get Ismail Khan to deliver to Kabul the import duties collected on goods transported from Iran. The United Nations has complained since 2002 that Ismail Khan's "prohibitive" import duties were blocking humanitarian aid shipments. Payments demanded by Ismail Khan's fighters also have prevented many poor Afghan refugees from returning from Iran.
(Ron Synovitz is a RFE/RL correspondent.)
SEVEN KILLED IN HERAT STREET CLASHES...
Afghan government forces regained control of the western city of Herat late on 12 September after a day of street clashes that seven four dead, international news agencies reported. Violence erupted early in the day as supporters of ousted Governor Mohammad Ismail Khan attacked local UN buildings. "We have around 50 people wounded and four people killed," said Mohammed Sho'aib, a doctor in the city's central hospital, AFP reported on 12 September. Afghan Transitional Administration Chairman Hamid Karzai fired Ismail Khan on 11 September (see feature above), and Ismail Khan's supporters took to the streets that night and early the following day. Roughly 1,000 protestors massed at the UN compound on 12 September, torching the door of the building of the office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees and the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), according to Herat police chief Ziauddin Mahmudi. UNAMA spokesman Manoel de Almeida e Silva said staffers hid in a bunker. Afghan forces imposed a curfew on the city as of the night of 12 September, AFP reported. (Marc Ricks)
...AS GOVERNOR KHAN CALLS FOR CALM...
With the situation in Herat still tense, ousted Governor Ismail Khan urged his followers on 12 September to refrain from violence, AFP reported. "Reshuffling and changes in a government are a normal thing," Ismail Khan said in a statement. "I am deeply affected by the number of brothers killed or injured in the past 24 hours." Karzai's government said Ismail Khan was appointed minister of mines and industries, while his gubernatorial seat was given to Sayyed Ahmad Khairkhwah, Afghanistan's ambassador to Ukraine. "I hope with patience, tolerance, and a single aim you ensure security, peace, and stability of your country and be tolerant," Ismail Khan told his successor. Speaking from Kabul, Karzai said Ismail Khan will continue working with the central government. "Our expectation from our brother Ismail Khan is [that he] serve his nation," said Karzai, who condemned the violence in Herat. "We expect him to come to Kabul and serve his country." (Marc Ricks)
...WHILE NGO AND UN EMPLOYEES LEAVE THE CITY...
UN personnel and dozens of aid workers from nongovernmental organizations left Herat on 13 September after two days of violent demonstrations in the city, AFP reported. According to AFP, 61 people, including foreign nationals and Afghans, were relocated from Herat to Kabul after demonstrators attacked UN buildings and the offices of nongovernmental organizations. "Oh my God, what have they done to our office?" said Abdul Karim, an employee of the International Organization for Migration, whose compound was burned. "I've seen in my life many destroyed UN premises but I have hardly seen the type of destruction that I saw at the UNAMA offices," said Filippo Grande, a spokesman for the UN's special representative in Afghanistan. "The office is in ashes, everything is burned -- they spilt gasoline and threw matches and the whole office does not exist anymore."
The UN refugee agency (UNHCR) halted operations in western Afghanistan on 12 September. "The UNHCR is now reviewing the situation on a daily basis, and hopes to resume its work in Herat soon," UNHCR spokeswoman Jennifer Pagonis told reporters in Geneva. UNHCR chief Ruud Lubbers voiced concern, saying daily convoys of Afghan refugees returning to the area from Iran need aid. "This suspension comes at the worst possible time for Afghanistan, when increasing numbers of refugees are coming back to their homeland, and just a few weeks ahead of an election that will shape the future of the country," Lubbers said. The UNHCR compound in Herat during the riots. The UNHCR is in talks with the new governor of Herat on how to ensure the safe return of UN workers, who fled the area.
Governor Khairkhwah called on aid agencies to return to the western Afghan city, AFP reported on 14 September. "Today I met with the UN staff, they complained about what happened [to their offices]," said Khairkhwah, who spoke to AFP by telephone. "I assured them that it will not be repeated again, we will do anything that we can to ensure their safety." Khairkhwah said aid workers are urgently needed in Herat. "They will leave for a few days -- I hope they will come back very soon," Khairkhwah said. "I'm very sorry and sad over what happened to the United Nations and nongovernmental offices here in Herat. (Marc Ricks)
...AS HUMAN RIGHTS ACTIVISTS PRAISE AFGHAN WARLORD'S OUSTER.
Human rights activists in Afghanistan have praised the removal of warlord Governor Ismail Khan by Chairman Karzai, AFP reported on 14 September. "The human-rights commission welcomes the recent administration change in Herat Province," Afghan Independent Human Rights Commission spokesman Nader Ahmad Nadery said. "We believe these changes will improve the human-rights situation in the province." Activists had accused Ismail Khan of infringing on women's rights and hampering the media. "The previous administration did not have a good record in providing a convincing environment for the civilians to freely practice their rights," Nadery said. But Ismail Khan remains popular in Herat, where he was considered a hero by some for his role as a guerrilla fighter against Soviet forces in the 1980s. Ismail Khan's supporters sacked Nadery's office and burned it during street violence that broke out on 11 September, when Karzai removed Ismail Khan. (Marc Ricks)
ANGRY MOB STORMS AID OFFICE IN NORTHEASTERN AFGHANISTAN...
A mob estimated in the hundreds attacked the office of an aid agency in Faizabad, the capital of Badakhshan Province, on 7 September, international news agencies reported. At least two employees of the aid agency, which is run by the Agha Khan Development Network, were beaten and the agency office was damaged. An Afghan government official, who insisted on remaining anonymous, said that the attack was provoked by rumors that the agency was converting Sunni Muslims in the area, Reuters reported on 7 September. Agha Khan is the spiritual leader of the Isma'ili branch of Islam, a sect of Shi'a Islam. The Isma'ilis represent a small religious minority in Afghanistan. However an aid agency official who also wished to remain anonymous said that the attack was the result of a misunderstanding in which people thought two local women were sexually assaulted in the agency. Agha Khan has invested heavily in the country since the demise of the Taliban. (Amin Tarzi)
...WHILE AFGHAN PLANNING MINISTER SAYS MORE ATTACKS TO COME...
Ramazan Bashardost said that more attacks against nongovernmental organizations working in Afghanistan are inevitable, AFP reported on 8 September. While not directly commenting on the attack in Faizabad, Bashardost said that he fears "the worst can happen to nongovernmental organizations in Afghanistan because Afghans are convinced [the NGOs] are taking for themselves the money that should be distributed to the Afghan people." Bashardost accused NGOs of acting like "private firms" and using 80 percent of their aid budgets on their staff. "Afghans pray for them to leave," Bashardost told AFP, referring to the thousands of aid agencies in the country. According to the planning minister, "it was a strategic error to confine the reconstruction" of Afghanistan to humanitarian organizations rather than the private sector and the Afghan government. According to Afghan Planning Ministry figures, there are currently 2,300 humanitarian organizations and 337 international aid agencies working in Afghanistan. (Amin Tarzi)
...AS FRENCH FOREIGN MINISTRY DISMISSES HIS COMMENTS ON NGOS.
French Foreign Ministry spokesman Herve Ladsous on 8 September rejected Ramazan Bashardost's recent claims that nongovernmental organizations supported by France are campaigning against him, according to a statement issued by the ministry (http://www.france.diplomatie.fr). Ladsous said that Bashardost's comments "deal, for the most part, with his country's domestic situation," and said the insinuation that France would campaign against a member of the Afghan government is groundless. (Amin Tarzi)
AFGHAN LEADER DEFENDS SOME NGOS.
Chairman Karzai expressed his deep concern regarding recent terrorist attacks against nongovernmental organizations in Afghanistan, Radio Afghanistan reported on 9 September. A statement issued by the office of Karzai's spokesman, Jawed Ludin, said that Karzai has ordered an investigation into the recent attack against an NGO run by the Agha Khan Development Network in northeastern Badakhshan Province (see above). The statement said that Karzai lauds those NGOs that have provided valuable services to the needy people of Afghanistan in extremely difficult times. However, the statement also acknowledged that Karzai is aware that there are a number of other firms known as NGOs, whose workers are interested in their own personal gain. These organizations, according to the statement, should be distinguished from "real" NGOs, which he defined as those that do not seek monetary or political gains. Planning Minister Bashardost recently criticized NGOs and in May launched an investigation into their activities (see "RFE/RL Afghanistan Report," 2 June 2004). Karzai's statement did not touch on Bashardost's comments. (Amin Tarzi)
NEO-TALIBAN ATTACK DISTRICT IN SOUTHERN AFGHANISTAN...
The neo-Taliban militia carried out an attack in the Nawbahar District of the Zabul Province on 6 September, Peshawar-based Afghan Islamic Press (AIP) reported the next day. According to Gholam Gailani, a Zabul security official, around 70 militants launched an attack on at the center of Nawbahar District. In fighting that lasted five hours, four neo-Taliban militiamen and one Afghan soldier were killed. Nawbahar has been the scene of neo-Taliban activity in the past and the central government had been largely unable to function there. More recently, however, government forces are operating in the district; this marks the first attack since those central forces arrived, AIP reported. (Amin Tarzi)
...AND CLASH WITH U.S. FORCES AND SUSTAIN CASUALTIES.
In clashes with U.S. forces in the village of Dewalak near Zabul's capital Qalat, two neo-Taliban militiamen were killed, Voice of the Islamic Republic of Iran reported on 7 September. Zabul Governor Khial Mohammad Hosayni said the clashes lasted for about an hour, during which U.S. forces did not sustain any casualties. According to the Iranian broadcaster, neo-Taliban did not commented on the incident.
In a separate incident, U.S. forces killed 22 neo-Taliban fighters in southern Afghanistan overnight on 12-13 September, AP reported on 13 September, citing U.S. military spokesman Major Scott Nelson. A 12-hour battle broke out in the restive Zabul when some 40 militants attacked coalition soldiers conducting a search operation, Nelson said. Two Apache helicopters came to the aid of the ground forces during the firefight. "Skirmishes continued throughout the night, and the final battle damage assessment from the incident, from our soldiers on the ground, was 22," Nelson said. Three Arabs were among the dead rebels, according to Nelson, and another Arab was among three people arrested. None of the coalition troops was hurt, he said. The U.S. troops found a global-positioning system, a video camera with tapes, four grenades, and two assault rifles, Nelson added, although he refused to identify the nationality of the alleged Arab fighters or disclose what was on the tapes. (Marc Ricks and Amin Tarzi)
U.S. SAYS BIN LADEN LIKELY DIRECTING GUERRILLA ATTACKS IN AFGHANISTAN.
A top U.S. commander in Afghanistan said Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden and senior members of his terrorist organization have likely been directing insurgent activity in Afghanistan, AP reported on 12 September. Major General Eric Olson, the operational commander of U.S.-led forces in Afghanistan, told AP that the U.S. military has not picked up any radio transmissions by either bin Laden or Ayman al-Zawahri, Al-Qaeda's reputed No. 2. However, the involvement of highly trained foreign fighters in guerrilla attacks along Afghanistan's border with Pakistan suggests that bin Laden is taking part in the insurgency, Olson said. "What we see are their [the two leaders'] techniques and their tactics here in Afghanistan, so I think it is reasonable to assume that the senior leaders are involved in directing those operations," Olson said. He also cited as an example the 26 August car bombing in Kabul that killed roughly 10 people at the office of a firm providing bodyguards for Karzai, saying: "We've even tied it to a group that has ties to Al-Qaeda. It could be a splinter group of some sort" (see "RFE/RL Afghanistan Report, " 1 September 2004). (Marc Ricks)
TWO TRIBES CLASH SOUTH OF KABUL.
The Nasar and Babar tribes have been involved in what has been reported as "heavy fighting" since 4 September in the border area between Logar and Nangarhar provinces, AIP reported on 6 September. According to eyewitnesses, heavy weapons have been used in the clashes but no reports of casualties are available. An eyewitness told AIP that Afghan government helicopters hovered over the zone of conflict, "but there have been no signs of any interference by the government." The cause of the fighting is not known. (Amin Tarzi)
AFGHAN OFFICIAL KILLED BY BODYGUARD.
Major Ra'is Khan, head of finance section of Division No. 9 in the northeastern Konar Province, was killed by a bodyguard on 6 September, AIP reported the next day. Two other people were injured in the attack. Ra'is Khan was the son of General Malik Mohammad Zarin, the commander of Division No. 9. The motive behind the killing is unclear, but AIP speculated that personal disputes might have been behind the incident. The report also added that Ra'is Khan previously worked as an interpreter for U.S. forces based in Afghanistan. (Amin Tarzi)
PRIVATE-PRISON TRIAL BRIEFLY RESUMED IN AFGHANISTAN.
An Afghan court on 13 September briefly resumed the trial of three Americans and four Afghans accused of running a private prison in Afghanistan, AFP reported. But the proceedings were quickly adjourned amid defense protests over lack of media access. Four journalists were present at the court's closed session, which was held in a different location from previous hearings. Around 20 members of the media have attended previous hearings. "I...object to those proceedings going forward," said John Tiffany, the defense attorney for the group's alleged ringleader, Jonathan Idema. "I respectfully request to have the trial on [15 September] in a normal court for the international press to be here." The courtroom exchange marked another strange turn in the case. Idema claims he was conducting counterterrorism operations with U.S.-led forces in the Kabul area. But coalition forces have denied any relationship with Idema. (Marc Ricks)
AFGHAN LEADER REPORTEDLY DECREES RELEASE OF 372 TALIBAN PRISONERS...
Chairman Karzai issued a decree ordering the release of 372 prisoners, Afghanistan Television reported on 8 September. Ahmad Wahid Muzhda, a spokesman for the Afghan Supreme Court, said the prisoners are "Taliban members and will be released very soon," AFP reported on 8 September. According to Muzhda, the prisoners are all Afghan nationals. The release order came after a recent request by a UN human rights expert for the release of more than 700 former Taliban fighters who remain in Afghan or U.S. custody, AFP reported. (Amin Tarzi)
...INCLUDING A TOP FORMER OFFICIAL...
Chairman Karzai has freed the former Taliban minister for the prevention of vice and the promotion of virtue, Mawlawi Qalamuddin, dpa reported on 14 September. Muzhda said Karzai ordered Qalamuddin's release after repeated appeals from residents of Logar Province in the southeastern part of the country. Afghan authorities arrested Qalamuddin last year in Kabul and invited people to file charges against him with the Supreme Court. "No one approached the court to complain about Qalamuddin. On the contrary, lots of people frequently requested his release," Muzhda said. Qalamuddin's ministry enforced the Taliban's draconian Islamic edicts, which included a ban on girls attending school, compulsory prayer five times a day, and mandatory beards for men. The ministry also was responsible for smashing televisions and musical instruments, which the Taliban deemed illegal on religious grounds. (Marc Ricks)
...AS WELL AS SOME 300 PAKISTANIS.
Afghan authorities have freed more 300 Pakistani fighters captured during the U.S.-led invasion of Afghanistan in 2001, AFP reported on 12 September. Muzhda said the 363 Pakistanis were "allegedly captured a few days before the fall of the Taliban regime," adding that "they were Pakistani Taliban." Afghan authorities released the prisoners to the Pakistani Embassy in Kabul, which will repatriate them, AFP reported. Backed by a U.S.-led invasion force, United Front (aka Northern Alliance) troops captured thousands of Taliban fighters in 2001, when the former regime was toppled. Many of the Taliban fighters were volunteers from Pakistan. Pakistan has pressed for their release, and the interim Afghan government periodically frees hundreds at a time. Muzhda said this represented the last group of Pakistanis held in Afghan jails. However, tensions persist between the two neighboring countries. Afghanistan accuses Pakistan of not doing enough to fight neo-Taliban insurgents believed to be hiding in Pakistan. (Marc Ricks)
NEW PAKISTANI PRIME MINISTER LOOKS FOR IMPROVED RELATIONS WITH KABUL.
In an interview on 5 September, newly appointed Pakistani Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz said that he looks forward to better relations with Afghanistan, the Karachi daily "Dawn" reported on 7 September. Aziz said that relations between Kabul and Islamabad have been improving and on the economic front Pakistan is Afghanistan's largest trading partner. "On the political front...[Afghans are concerned] that their internal security is affected by people who reside on this [Pakistani] side of the border," Aziz said. According to Aziz, his country has been very active in trying to contain the movement of militants into Afghanistan. A politically and economically stable Afghanistan is in the interest of Pakistan, Aziz maintained. (Amin Tarzi)
THREE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES REPORTEDLY FORMING COALITION IN SUPPORT OF QANUNI...
Presidential candidates Abdul Satar Sirat, Mohammad Mohaqeq, and Mohammad Yunos Qanuni have reportedly reached an agreement to form a coalition, Voice of the Islamic Republic of Iran reported on 8 September. According to the report, Mohaqeq and Sirat are to withdraw from the race in favor of Qanuni, who is seen as the most credible challenger to the front-runner, Afghan Transitional Administration Chairman Hamid Karzai (see "RFE/RL Afghanistan Report," 31 July and 5 August 2004). Under the agreement, if Qanuni wins the election, Mohaqeq would become a key minister while Sirat, who served as justice minister under King Mohammad Zaher, would become the chief justice of the Supreme Court. Other candidates, such as Abdul Latif Pedram and Abdul Hafez Mansur, might also join the coalition against Karzai, the report added. (Amin Tarzi)
...WHO CRITICIZES THE TIMING OF ELECTION, BLAMING THE UNITED STATES.
Presidential candidate Qanuni said that Afghanistan's presidential election is "coming rather early," Paris daily "Le Figaro" reported on 9 September. Qanuni said that more time is needed to prepare the people of Afghanistan for their first-ever democratic election. "People do not yet have identification cards; how can we ensure all that the voting stations will function in a rigorous manner?" Qanuni asked. The former interior and then education minister under Karzai's administration charged that the United States "was absolutely insistent that the [presidential] election take place," and it is essentially "being held for the Americans." Qanuni accused Karzai of not working to foster national unity, which he said is "disintegrating." (Amin Tarzi)
AFGHAN LEADERS MARK ANNIVERSARY OF MAS'UD ASSASSINATION.
At a gathering held at a stadium in Kabul on 8 September, Afghan leaders gathered along with thousands of people at a stadium in Kabul on 8 September to mark the third anniversary of the assassination of Ahmad Shah Mas'ud, Afghanistan Television reported. Two Arabs, reportedly on orders from Al-Qaeda, posed as journalists and then killed Mas'ud, the military leader of the United Front on 9 September 2001. In the ceremony, Chairman Hamid Karzai, many members of his cabinet, some former mujahedin party leaders, and one of Mas'ud's brothers delivered speeches about the slain commander. On 7 September, in a speech read at a conference commemorating Mas'ud's legacy, Karzai called Mas'ud "a hero and a patriotic mujahed with high morality." Mas'ud is generally regarded as the most renowned hero of the struggle against the Taliban regime, and several candidates have invoked his image or memory as the Afghan presidential election nears. Ahmad Zia Mas'ud, a brother of the slain commander, is the first vice-presidential running mate of Karzai (see "RFE/RL Afghanistan Report," 31 July and 5 and 26 August 2004). (Amin Tarzi)
AFGHAN RECONSTRUCTION MINISTER CRITICIZES RECONSTRUCTION TEAMS.
Afghanistan's reconstruction minister, Amin Farhang, has said that the Provincial Reconstruction Teams (PRTs) fielded by U.S.-led coalition forces have failed to instill security, AFP reported. In an interview to be published on 14 September in the German business daily "Handelsblatt," Farhang said the PRTs are not dealing aggressively enough with insurgent activity. "I criticize the concept of the PRTs fundamentally," Farhang said. "For me, the PRTs were from the beginning for a combination of security and reconstruction. You can do reconstruction when you have security. But when the PRTs do not intervene when something happens, that is wrong." Farhang said that German-led PRT teams are ignoring the drug trade and failing to take military action when needed, such as in the case of recent clashes in the northern town of Faizabad. "Drugs and reconstruction cannot be separated from each other," Farhang said. "Otherwise it is a waste of money." There are currently 14 coalition PRTs in Afghanistan, and Germany has offered to set up an additional team this month to speed reconstruction efforts ahead of presidential election scheduled for October. (Marc Ricks)
IRAN AND AFGHANISTAN SIGN POLICE COOPERATION AGREEMENT.
Afghan Interior Minister Ali Ahmad Jalali and Iranian Ambassador to Afghanistan Mohammad Reza Bahrami signed an agreement on cooperation in police affairs on 13 September, Afghan Radio Kelid reported on 14 September. Under the agreement, Iran will erect and equip 25 border posts, train 180 Afghan police officers in Iran, and donate 125 motorcycles to the Afghan police. (Bill Samii)
ECO LEADERS CREATE RECONSTRUCTION FUND FOR AFGHANISTAN.
Asian political leaders have created a special fund to help Afghanistan with priority reconstruction projects. The fund was announced on 14 September as the heads of state from 10 countries in the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) gathered in Dushanbe, Tajikistan. One the sidelines of the summit, the presidents of Iran and Tajikistan along with Afghan Transitional Administration Chairman Hamid Karzai have been talking about a proposed highway projected that could become a major trade route for their countries.
The creation of a fund to finance reconstruction projects in Afghanistan is one of the key developments emerging from the ECO summit.
Askhad Orazbae, the group's secretary-general, announced the news to journalists at the conclusion of the summit's main meeting in Dushanbe.
"I think the creation of this fund, of course, cannot resolve all of Afghanistan's problems," Orazbae said. "But from a political point of view, it is very important to demonstrate our solidarity with the Afghan people and to show our readiness to provide concrete support for Afghanistan's reconstruction -- and the recovery of the economy after the devastation of Afghanistan."
So far, Pakistan is the only ECO member that has announced a pledge to the fund.
Pakistan, which seeks to build a pipeline to carry Turkmen natural gas across western Afghanistan to a distribution center in southern Pakistan, has promised to contribute $5 million to the fund (see "RFE/RL Afghanistan Report," 27 February 2003).
Tajikistan's President Imomali Rakhmonov confirmed that money from the fund would be used to finance regional energy projects.
He also suggested the fund could be used for infrastructure projects, such as a proposed highway link between Iran and Tajikistan that would pass through northern Afghanistan: "The leaders of [ECO] states and governments believe that our organization has reached such a level of maturity that it can actively and directly help implement large-scale, economically profitable projects of regional importance -- including hydro-energy projects, infrastructure, industrial and hydro-economic projects that contribute the most to the strengthening of the economic potential and progress in our larger region," Rakhmonov said.
At the conclusion of the formal summit sessions, Rakhmonov held a private meeting with Afghan Transitional Administration Chairman Hamid Karzai and President Hojatoleslam Mohammad Khatami of Iran. Tajik government officials told RFE/RL that the three-way talks focused on the proposed Iran-Tajikistan highway through northern Afghanistan.
Svante Cornell is a research director of the Contemporary Silk Road Studies Program at Uppsala University in Sweden. He told RFE/RL that it is the interest of both Iran and Tajikistan to build the highway through northern Afghanistan.
"Given the present situation where Tajikistan is economically and trade-wise isolated from Uzbekistan, its opportunities to conduct trade are crucial," Cornell said. "And in this sense, opening up to the south -- and potentially to South Asia or the Middle East, including Iran -- is of paramount importance for any kind of economic development in the country."
Cornell noted that by passing through northern Afghanistan and into Tajikistan, the proposed highway would link together several regions where Persian or the closely related Dari language is spoken.
"Tajikistan, for both cultural and political reasons, is the country that has been the most positive toward Iranian involvement in the region," Cornell said. "Other countries in Central Asia have been wary of Iran. Tajikistan is really the main inroad for Iran into Central Asia. And the changes in Afghanistan have, of course, made it possible for the Iranians to figure [create] a type of Persian cultural zone that stretches from Iran to Tajikistan."
But Cornell said that other ECO countries in the region -- such as Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan -- will not benefit directly from the proposed highway. They are therefore unlikely to contribute significantly to that project. The two other ECO members are Azerbaijan and Turkey. (Ron Synovitz and Sojida Djakhfarova)
THIS WEEK IN AFGHANISTAN'S HISTORY:
12 September 1961 -- Islamic Conference of Jerusalem appeals to Afghanistan and Pakistan to resolve their differences.
9 September 1999 -- A Taliban spokesman, Mulla Mutawakkil, says that war it the only solution for the conflict in Afghanistan.
9 September 2001 -- United Front military commander Ahmad Shah Mas'ud is killed in a suicide attack by two Arabs posing as journalists.
Sources: "Historical Dictionary of Afghanistan," Third Edition, by Ludwig W. Adamec, (Lanham: The Scarecrow Press, Inc., 2003).


Who is Aries Soulmate? Their Top 5 Partner Signs, Ranked
Aries men and women are bold, aggressive, adventurous, and intensely independent. But don't let their brash nature fool you; these people are sensitive souls who long for deep romantic connections.
Aries people are passionate about everything they do in life. Their lofty ambition makes finding a soulmate an intense and often challenging pursuit. These people can be quite picky in love, and it usually takes a genuine soul connection to capture their hearts.
The ideal Aries soulmate will effortlessly complement their traits. Aries wants a soulmate that's deeply invested, loyal, encouraging, stabilizing, and respects their leadership initiative. They also must have a degree of independence as a compliment to Aries's intensely independent and often selfish side.
In this post, we'll cover the most harmonious soulmate matches for Aries. The following signs offer Aries the perfect blend of supportive traits and genuine synergy. Let's get into it.
Related: 6 Aries Spirit Animals that Perfectly Represent the Sign
1. Leo
4. Aquarius
Honorable mention: Scorpio
Leading the way in our Soulmate matches is the all-star connection between Aries and fellow fire sign and kindred spirit, Leo.
Aries and Leo are trine signs (90 degrees apart) and have similar sensitivities and approaches. Trine energy is easy and fluid, and it makes these two able to handle the wildest sides of each other's personalities.
This is no small feat, as Aries and Leo can easily scare people off with their strong egos and fiery intensity. It's a perfect union of lock-step, fast-paced living.
The connection between Aries and Leo is strong on so many levels. They have similar personalities, emotional natures, and romantic styles. Aries and Leo are both warm-hearted, generous, lusty, and extroverted.
They're a prideful, free-spirited, life-of-the-party couple that combines socially and radiates out in all directions.
Since both are fire signs, they merge flames and sync up their passions instead of burning each other out. Sure, there may be occasional disagreements and fights between these passionate signs, but they're usually quick to resolve power struggles and move on to the warmer emotions they love.
This passionate and enthusiastic relationship is one of the strongest of the zodiac, and it's a soul match that grows over time physically and spiritually. This adventurous and spontaneous match co-exists wonderfully, so long as they work together and don't try to dominate each other too much.
Luckily, they both hate admitting defeat and have the drive to break through barriers and succeed. With their shared competitive and ambitious natures, they grow together and individually into better versions of themselves.
Related: Why are Aries People So Attractive?
The next Aries soulmate on our list is another fellow fire sign, Sagittarius.
Aries and Sagittarius is another ideal soulmate match where each sign shares a considerable amount of similar traits and energies.
Both signs are highly adventurous, free-spirited, sociable, pioneering, and fun-loving. There's endless laughter and discovery when these two souls meet up.
Their sex life is effortless, and they adjust to one another's needs effortlessly as time progresses in their physical relationship. There's an incredible amount of passion during their lovemaking that bonds them intensely.
Aries and Sagittarius share some wonderfully contrasting traits, as well. Sagittarius has a calm detachment that cools hot-headed Aries when needed. At the same time, Sagittarius can easily handle Aries's impulsive nature when they're unable to calm down.
And Aries gives Sagittarius the support and acceptance to take on the world in their way without compromising their beliefs, all while exploring a lifetime's worth of shared interests and passions.
Both signs like to lead, but Aries's soulmate isn't going to be a follower, anyway. Aries is impressed that Sagittarius is a leader in their own right and can be an excellent sounding board and aid in Aries's pioneering journey.
Sagittarius won't back down to Aries, which pleases them because it means Sagittarius won't back down when defending Aries, too.
Overall, this is a fantastic match between two people that share a deep, heart-to-heart soul bond. This relationship is built on high-level communication and emotional resonance, which carries them far as they take on the world together.
Expect a lot of excitement, travel, and new growth when these two sync up.
Related: Are Aries People Loyal Partners?
Next up, we have a soulmate match that's full of fun and vibrancy. While not as passionate as the fire sign matches of Aries-Leo and Aries-Sagittarius, the Aries-Gemini match brings a powerful meeting of the mind, heart, and soul. They both live for excitement and novel experiences.
With this match, you can expect a lot of healthy stimulation and excitement. Aries brings the physical experiences, and Gemini stretches both of their minds mentally.
Gemini is a great talker that excites Aries's mind with new ways of thinking and exploring. Together, they experience life on several eclectic levels that other signs matches don't get to experience.
There's never a dull moment or lull in conversation with this match. Aries and Gemini are constantly striving to broaden their understanding of the world. So even idle chatter between them is cozy and interesting.
In the day-to-day, Aries takes the lead, and Gemini is always eager to be along for the ride. And Aries gets to experience the thrill of the chase constantly as they work to keep up with Gemini's continually fluctuating and novelty-seeking personality.
Overall, this Aries-Gemini is a well-suited soulmate match. They have different methods in life, but their relationship is addictively stimulating and engaging nonetheless.
So long as Aries is complex enough for Gemini, and Gemini is action-seeking enough for Aries, this relationship will go far.
Related: Why are Aries People So Good in Bed?
This soulmate match is another that's bursting at the seams with affection, excitement, and shared interests. Aries and Aquarius are both quirky, outgoing, fun-loving, and adore adventuring with their lovers.
This coupling shares some fundamental common values that hit deep at the soul level. They're both independent and happily give lovers plenty of time and space to explore individual interests. They're both extroverts that love to go out and meet new people.
Honesty is paramount to both of these signs, and both communicate directly. All of this combines to create an easeful and fun dynamic.
While they're enthusiastic and creative together, the Aries-Aquarius relationship can lack a strong emotional connection. Aquarius is less passionate and emotional than Aries, which can be hard on Aries.
But at the same time, optimistic Aquarius fuels Aries's hopes and dreams. Aries also trusts Aquarius's honesty and stable fixed-sign nature. And restless Aquarius loves that Aries is always on the move and trying new things.
There will be differences and arguments between this pairing. They both like to get their way and can be standoffish and dismissive when they don't get it. But they're a resilient match that can handle such discord.
They're both lighthearted enough to not take light clashes too personally, and they're capable of forgiving and forgetting at the drop of a hat. They both prefer harmony over holding grudges.
Overall, this is a fantastic soulmate match with plenty of dynamism and vitality that can help the relationship last a lifetime. Mutual admiration runs high, and their shared fascination with the other nurtures constant interest and respect.
If you're looking for a good balance of fun, seriousness, and personal growth, then Aries-Aquarius might be the ideal soulmate match.
Related: What Sign is the Best Match for Aries?
Coming in at number five on this list, we have Aries and Libra. Since these signs oppose each other on the zodiac wheel, this relationship represents a potent soulmate match that polarizes and magnetizes.
Aries and Libra are charming and social in their ways and can carry on intelligently in all types of company. They're drawn to each other's intellect and can engage in endless witty banter together. There's a lot of natural affinity in this dynamic.
As opposite signs, passion abounds in this relationship. Additionally, their planetary rulers (Venus for Libra and Mars for Aries) add more spice to the dynamic. Romance, sex, and intimacy are brought to life under the warm light of this pairing, and the potency never dulls.
Related: 7 Signs that an Aries Man is Using You (Don't get Played)
A vital component of this relationship is Aries's assertive nature and Libra's general passivity. This can make or break the connection, depending on how they navigate their differences. At its most balanced, this relationship involves Aries taking the lead much of the time and Libra providing balancing guidance.
Aries teaches Libra how to step out of their comfort zone and make tough decisions, while Libra teaches abrasive Aries to adopt a bit more tactfulness.
Overall, Aries-Libra can be a lovely match where magnetic sex appeal abounds. There's a feisty tag-team dynamic here with many shared plans and dreams.
So long as they remain patient with each other's differences, this soulmate bond can go far as they challenge and excite each other on a daily basis.
Related: 8 Clear Signs that an Aries Man Likes You
The Aries-Scorpio soulmate pairing is the feistiest in the zodiac. This is the only pairing on our list between fire and water signs, partly because these elements aren't traditionally harmonic.
But it's the ruling planets that glue these two signs together. Passionate Mars rules both signs, and it creates a lot of similar approaches and karma that bond these two signs together.
With Mars as their ruler, Aries and Scorpio are aggressive, competitive, and standoffish. They share endless passions and a magnetic sex appeal when in a relationship together.
While fiery and often competitive, there's a lot of mutual understanding in this dynamic that bonds them. Their connection is powerful and fosters a strong sense of deep care and love.
Scorpio admires Aries's raw power, and Aries cannot resist Scorpio's magnetic transformational energy.
Trust can be a sticking point for them. Both signs can be intensely jealous and mistrusting of their lover's loyalties. But if they commit and learn to trust, their passion can bring them far, and the relationship will transform them in explosive ways they've never dreamed of.
There will undoubtedly be struggles for dominance that make or break their romance. But no matter what happens, this soulmate connection is guaranteed to be exciting, dynamic, and intense.
Related: How to Get an Aries Man to Chase You Endlessly
There you have it, six Aries soulmate connections that can create peak relationship satisfaction.
It's important to note that you should never assess a relationship purely on the sun signs involved. Relationships, especially soulmate ones, are based on many other aspects within the zodiac chart.
If you want to know if your relationship is a true soulmate match, you'll want to get both your and your partner's charts read by a seasoned astrologer.
If you have any questions or comments about this article, please let us know in the comment section below.
Who Should Aries Marry?
8 Things to Know About the Aries Man in Bed
6 Simple Tips to Get an Aries Man to Miss You
The Most Dangerous Zodiac Signs, Ranked
Which Zodiac Sign is the Strongest?
Which Zodiac Sign is The Absolute Worst?
Which Zodiac Sign is the Meanest?
Who is Aries' Soulmate Sign?
Who is Taurus' Soulmate Sign?
Who is Gemini's Soulmate Sign?
Who is Cancer's Soulmate Sign?
Who is Leo's Soulmate Sign?
Who is Libra's Soulmate Sign?
Who is Scorpio's Soulmate Sign?
Who is Sagittarius's Soulmate Sign?
Who is Capricorn's Soulmate Sign?
Who is Aquarius' Soulmate Sign?
Who is Pisces Soulmate Sign?


Which Party Would Win the Political Olympics?
by Michael Kinsley
The 2012 Olympics and Paralympics
ended this week with a giant parade through London, where I fled
to recover from back-to-back political conventions in the U.S.
There are similarities between these domestic and international
spectacles.
Truth is, the Olympic Games have never done much for me. In
fact, I find them a bit sinister: the strident nationalism; the
elevation of victory in a sports competition to the level of
something terribly important; the constant insistence that they
really are important; the talented young kids who are encouraged
to put childhood aside in order to spend four or 12 or 50 hours
a day honing their talents, most of them destined for
disappointment; the corporate sponsorship that gets more
oppressive every four years; the hectoring theme music …
(OK, so I'm a pompous, bloodless, soulless, un-American
jerk. Those superb young people pouring heart and soul into
throwing the beach ball just one inch farther, or whatever,
deserve better than mockery from the likes of … etc., etc., etc.
Fine. Point taken. Can we move on now? Thank you.)
The Olympics are a perfect example of what you might call
"gratuitous meritocracy." The rewarding of extreme industry and
talent is both inevitable in all human societies and
specifically necessary to the proper functioning of free-market
But capitalism doesn't depend on an elaborate process for
anointing the world's greatest javelin thrower — cruelly
crushing the hopes of half a dozen or so for every one who gets
a medal. Nor are the Olympics inevitable. We did without them
from ancient times until 1896. They are a contest someone
dreamed up so that nations and individuals can feel superior to
one another.
Something Unexpected
This year in London, however, something unexpected
happened. In recent decades the Olympics have been followed in
the host city by the Paralympics, in which all competitors are,
in the delicate words of the International Paralympic Committee,
"people with an impairment." The roots of these kinds of
sporting events are pretty shallow. The Paralympics date to
1960, while groups like the Society of One-Armed Golfers
(founded in 1932) and events like the "Deaflympics" (first held
in 1924) are slightly older.
Yet this year the Paralympics had a breakthrough, at least
in the U.K. Partly this is because Britons are soft-hearted
suckers for a good "triumph over adversity" story. As the
Guardian, the U.K.'s left-wing establishment newspaper,
editorialized: "At the risk of using up the entire annual quota
of Guardian editorial schmaltz in one go, this past month it
feels as if most of us have been (as Boris Johnson would have
it) cropdusted with serotonin, the happiness hormone."
Brits also felt that the whole Olympics package, but
especially the Paralympics, put them in a pretty good light.
Guardian columnist Jonathan Freedland put it this way: "We
looked in the mirror and were met by an unexpected reflection —
one we rather liked." For the hangdog end-of-empire British,
this is novel and refreshing.
But the main reason the Paralympics took off is that they
were apparently just so exciting. If you think watching a bunch
of men running a footrace is a thrill, imagine watching them run
it blind.
For once, the excruciatingly defensive and politically
correct label, "differently abled," was completely accurate and
appropriate. Olympic athletes can do things that Paralympic
athletes can't, but Paralympic athletes can do things that
Olympics athletes can't. (The Paralympics also demonstrate the
arbitrariness of the definition of a sport, thus undermining the
logic of the whole enterprise.)
Otherwise Occupied
I say "apparently" because I didn't actually see this
year's Olympics or Paralympics. As I said, I was otherwise
occupied.
The Republican convention in Tampa, Florida, like the
Olympics, was all about winners, about the care and feeding of
successful people. Getting the smartest, hardest-working people
— the alphas — to employ their talents is the most important
thing a leader must do.
By contrast, the Democratic convention in Charlotte, North
Carolina, like the Paralympics, was about inclusiveness. With a
bit of help (a student loan, secure health care, a small tax
cut), millions more people can join the great American middle
class. A small change in the rules can make a disabled athlete
equal or superior to an "abled" one.
Doubling the infinitesimal number of super-athletes who
enjoy fame and riches won't really make for a more equal
society. It will just redistribute the inequality a bit.
Is it a fairer society when a few more people are eligible
for the baubles of success? Well, maybe it is. But it is the
Democrats, with their emphasis on inclusion and their
determination to ask for a bit more from the folks who have
those baubles — even if they have earned them — who have the
more profound version of fairness.
Michael Kinsley is a Bloomberg View columnist.