NATION

Cops and Robbers (Corruption)

A New York City police scandal shows how some officers can be both -- and other cities watch and worry

In Russia's Shadow (Georgia)

Other near abroad nations could share Georgia's fate as Moscow asserts its license to interfere

The Company He Keeps (The Cabinet)

Accused of corruption by a spurned Vietnamese businessman, Commerce Secretary Ron Brown discovers that a friend in need is not always a friend indeed

Tripped Up By Lies (Waco)

A report paints a devastating portrait of ATF's Waco planning -- or, rather, the lack of it

WORLD

Sorry State of Siege (Russia)

Yeltsin has a serious mess on his hands as the political crisis refuses to end

While They Slept (India)

In the wake of a festival honoring the god of good luck, tens of thousands perish on the day the earth exploded

SCIENCE

How Did Life Begin? (Cover Story Science)

In bubbles? On comets? Along ocean vents? Scientists find some surprising answers to the greatest mystery on earth.

HEALTH & MEDICINE

Healthy Dissent (Health Care)

In Congress, health-care reformists are engaging in finger pointing as liberals and conservatives push alternatives to Clinton's plan

Here Comes Doctor No (Health Care)

Led by the A.M.A., many of the country's medical practitioners launch a major assault to refashion President Clinton's health-reform plan

SOCIETY

An Education in Death (Ethics)

A New England school bridles at honoring a mother's request that her daughter not be saved if she's dying

Taming the Killers (Crime)

Can young murderers be reformed? Or are they fated to repeat their crimes? In Texas an innovative program tries to change lives to save lives.

The Personality Pill (Behavior)

A best seller warns that the popularity of Prozac may herald an age of cosmetic psychology

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

BUSINESS

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

What's That Chirping? (Pop Music)

It's the Abba revival. And this time, to love them, you may not actually have to like them.

TO OUR READERS