COVER
The End of California? Dream On!
The Golden State has fought the status quo since its birth 160 years ago. But even amid a particularly rough chapter in the state's history, the nation's future is being written in California. A special report
WORLD
Unloved
Will Tony Blair be Europe's first President? Not if his opponents have a say
ESSAY
A Better Measure than GDP
Our obsession with gross domestic product is unhealthy — and misleading
GLOBAL BUSINESS
First Amex and Visa, Now Here's Bartercard
Formal barter schemes that remove the hassle of cashless exchanges are booming
LETTERS
A Soldier's Life (Inbox)
Weighing a Plan in Afghanistan; A Tax on Homes; Justice League: Hollywood
ENVIRONMENT
The Great Mediterranean Jellyfish Invasion
How a species of thumb-size jellyfish is threatening to upset the Mediterranean ecosystem
GLOBAL ADVISER
Middle Eastern Promise (On Show)
A Paris exhibition showcases exciting new talent
10 Reasons to Visit Yanesen (TIME Traveler)
The winding lanes of Yanesen are a hit with young Tokyoites in search of a slower pace of life
Lots of Interest (Diversions)
For the visitor, London's smaller auction houses offer hours of browsing pleasure
Try a Little Grass (Curtain Raiser)
Hong Kong's Clockenflap is a festival with film, art and ecological components as well as music