COVER
How the Taliban Thrives (Afghanistan)
It isn't just drugs. Extortion, kidnapping for ransom, and protection rackets all help fund the growing Afghan insurgency. Why crime pays big-time for the Taliban
ESSAY
Obama's Next Afghan Move (In The Arena)
The war in Afghanistan started for a good reason; it won't be won if we ignore local traditions
Greening China
Why the world's biggest emitter of greenhouse gases is not a lost cause
UNITED STATES
Edward M. Kennedy, 1932-2009
When he buried his nephew, he echoed Yeats' words that a man should "live to comb gray hair." Too many Kennedy men didn't, but Teddy did. In his long life, he carried many burdens — leader of his family, icon of his party, voice of the dispossessed. His death cuts a cord to a shimmery past but leaves a legacy far into the future
LIFE
Wrecking Crew (Heritage)
Beijing's plan to raze Kashgar's historic quarter strikes a further blow to Uighur identity
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Northern Star (Art)
A former propaganda artist from North Korea is now free to paint his own truths
GLOBAL ADVISER
The Venice Biennale (Sense of Place)
As seen through the debauched pages of Jeff in Venice
Divine Revelation (On Show)
In London, the V&A's new gallery traces the history of Buddhist statuary
Sauce Code (Amuse-Bouche)
Yuan's gourmet sauces have a fanatical fanbase from Hong Kong to Amsterdam
Cape Crusaders (Grapevine)
For the best South African wine, buy at source