October 18, 2004 | Vol. 164 No. 16

What Saddam Was Really Thinking

New disclosures paint a surprising portrait of the Iraqi dictator and his fateful strategies

WMD Myth and Reality

Does the U.S. Need the Draft?

Both Bush and Kerry say no. But with America tied down in Iraq, military officials say they may need more troops to win the war — and the next one

How the Draft Rumor Got Started

Flat Chance

Prices on cool TVs are dropping as new factories come on line. Is now the time to buy?

Alphabet Soup

Born Too Soon (Science/Health)

What can doctors — and parents — do about the alarming rise in the number of premature births?

Steamed Up

Two decades after blowing its top, Mount St. Helens is stirring again. Here is how scientists keep an eye on an active volcano

Bad Blood (Your Time/Health)

Flu-Shot Anxiety (Your Time/Health)

How to prepare for a winter season of vaccine shortages

Move Over, Grandma. Let the Nurse See the Baby (Your Time/Health)

Because Another Credit-Card Offer Is Exactly What You Need (Your Time/Money)

Vintage Technology (Your Time/Money)

Wheels and Deals (Your Time/Money)

Women buy more new cars than men do. But many could negotiate better

She Sings the Body Electric (Your Time/Technology)

Some Like It Small (Your Time/Technology)

Look out, iPod. Flash digital-audio players are getting better than ever

Starry Circus (Your Time/Technology)

Click Here For Love (TIME Bonus Section November 2004: Generations)

As older Americans grow more comfortable online, they're seeking e-romance in record numbers

Ask Francine (TIME Bonus Section November 2004: Generations)

Upgrade Your Smile (TIME Bonus Section November 2004: Generations)

Implant surgery is now faster and less painful

Home Advantage (TIME Bonus Section November 2004: Generations)

No agents. No fees. No hassles. Selling the house to your kids can be a smooth move