Is this the man to say 'No, minister'?

Article Abstract:

Sir Gordon Downey, the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards, prefers to keep a very low profile, avoiding any hint of controversy. However, he plays a vital role in political life in the UK, and refusing to take on a higher profile could diminish his influence. Some observers question whether he has the necessary political skills to deal with the various traps which would be set for him in official inquiries, for example. Even if he discovered some inappropriate political behaviour, he may be unwilling to expose if for fear of a scandal.

Standards, Political activity, Public employees, Government employees, Downey, Gordon

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For Japan, the art of forgetting is first to remember

Article Abstract:

There is still a widespread reluctance in Japan to acknowledge that the negative events in the country's 20th century history even took place. Against this background, the official visit of UK Prime Minister Tony Blair to Japan cannot be regarded as a normal event. Economic links between Japan and the UK are strong, but Blair's visit is overshadowed by the refusal of Japan to acknowledge and come to terms with its past. Japan's diplomatic profile will only be improved if a process of remembering is instigated.

International Affairs, Intnl Political Relations, Japan, International relations, Social change

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Kant for every day

Article Abstract:

It has become common recently for UK politicians to indulge in philosophising as they talk of moral issues. In fact, most politicians know very little about philosophy, and cannot even name any living philosophers. However, there are signs that philosophy is starting to enjoy a revival, at least with young people. Indeed, universities and colleges are reporting a rise in applications to study philosophy, even though it is widely known that a career in philosophy is neither easy nor lucrative.

Beliefs, opinions and attitudes, Study and teaching, Philosophy

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