Writing

The Politics of Hope and Fear

Hillary Clinton threatens to tear America apart -- will Barack Obama's vision be strong enough to sustain us through the long struggle ahead?

An Unlikely Gunman

Sociologists are supposed to help understand troubling social phenomena like murder -- not become murderers themselves.

An Ex-Pat’s View of Obama

For the first time, there is a candidate I really believe in. It's a wonderful gift.

Reflections on Technology

The technology that is indispensible to modern research, and low-tech solutions for the problems it creates.

Fundraising and Pride

The reality of American universities' fundraising strategies.... Does Scotland really want to cultivate a "culture of giving?"

Indentured Servitude: The Real Tragedy of Student Debt

My personal experience with student debt, and the wider politics it reveals. Published in WireTap Magazine, and on AlterNet.

Tuition Fees Create a Debtor's Prison

The reality of student debt in America, its effects on wider society, and hard questions for Scotland. Published in the Scotsman.

Portrait of a Civilized Country

On what Scots take for granted.

Could Be Worse: A Parable

Is a little bit of abuse acceptable? When does it become unacceptable? Reflections on the treatment of protesters at the Republican National Convention.

Open letter to George W. Bush about Sex Education

Bush's sex education guidelines call for an exclusive abstinence-only message to prevent the spread of STDs, and I have a few suggestions on making that message even clearer. (parody!!)

Greetings from the Twilight Zone

Letter to my peace movement friends in Italy at the supposed finish of "Operation Iraqi Freedom."

Smashing Ignorance [rant]

Response to a disturbing e-mail, challenging common misconceptions about immigrants, American culture, and politics.