Gambler's ruin
From Adam Smith (1776) until 1950 or so, capital was considered by economists to be absolutely essential for economic growth. You also needed a few good basic institutions. "Security of…
Balancing asia's rivals
George W. Bush is approaching the end of his presidency mired in low popularity ratings, which partly reflects his policies in the Middle East. But Bush leaves behind a better…
Losing Turkey
Turkey has long been a haven of geo-political stability. But, since 2003, Turkey's virtually unquestioned alliance with the United States has undergone a profound re-evaluation, due to the Iraq War,…
In Focus: From Abu-Fana to Al-Burullus
Egypt is boiling; this is the least one can say of the general conditions in Egypt. From Abu-Fana monastery, which witnessed violent clashes between Muslims and Copts less than two…
Independent press gets a boost with five new licenses issued
CAIRO: In what many see as a growing wave of independent journalism in Egypt, the Higher Press Council gave licenses to five privately-owned newspapers on Sunday.Media analysts say the move…
High school certificate is a ghost haunting our homes, say parents
CAIRO: It is a familiar scene outside public schools during the month of June: mothers, fathers and siblings anxiously standing in silence, everyone waiting for the thanawiya amma (Egyptian high…
Pope Shenouda fractures hip bone, is flown to Cleveland Clinic
CAIRO: According to sources inside the Coptic church, Pope Shenouda was involved in an accident Monday night that left him unable to move until the next day.Sources told Daily News…
Company files case against 'pollution blogger'
CAIRO: A court in Port Said Monday reviewed the first defamation case filed against an Egyptian blogger, Tamer Mabrouk.Mabrouk, author of Al-Hakika blog, is being accused by the Trust Chemicals…
Zaki wants out of Zamalek contract
CAIRO: Wigan Athletic target Amr Zaki has sent a letter to the Egyptian FA demanding to terminate his contract with Zamalek.The combative striker claims that Zamalek haven t paid him…