COVER

Inside The Mind Of John Kerry (Cover Story / 2004 Democratic Convention)

The Democratic candidate deals in shades of gray, which means reaching a decision can be a long and winding road.

WORLD

Halting the Next 9/11

The commission's report proposes dramatic reforms to help thwart another attack. But do they make sense, and will they ever be implemented?

The State of Our Defenses

The U.S. has spent tens of billions over the past three years to bolster domestic security. But in critical areas, the homeland remains at risk

Daring to Live Again (Letter From Jerusalem)

A respite from terrorism--and a big new wall--helps the city regain its swagger

SCIENCE

Hawking Cries Uncle

The famous physicist admits he was wrong about black holes--and pays off a long-standing wager

SOCIETY

Recipes for Success

The new home economics teaches girls (and boys) how to master life outside the kitchen

BRIEFING

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

BUSINESS

The Purse-Party Blues

Fake luxury handbags have never been better--or more tempting. But now the crackdown has begun

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Scary And Smart (Movies)

Horror movies have grown up, toned down the gore and amped up the suspense. You could say they're dreadful. But in a good way

Music: Out on the Camp Trail (Arts & Media / Music)

The Scissor Sisters have a secret. It's not that their songs have a gay theme. It's that they're pop prodigies

YOUR TIME

Black Humor (Lifestyle)

A new comic novel boldly takes on politics and race

PEOPLE

LETTERS