COVER

Big Brotherhood (World)

China is undergoing a rare leadership transition at a time of rising social tensions. Inside the world's biggest security state

FEATURES

Aliens Among Us (Space)

The universe is aswarm with the stuff of biology--and it could be seeding life everywhere

The Phenom (Nation)

Paul Ryan made his name as a budget geek. But on the campaign trail he's been more performer than wonk

BRIEFING

Sit Tight (Economy)

The latest way to squeeze more people into planes

LETTERS

COMMENTARY

More Jobs, Less Pay (The Curious Capitalist)

Productivity is no longer growing fast enough to boost wages

BUSINESS

The Pursuit Of Happiness (Sustainability)

What makes us happy? Bhutan's bold attempt to quantify national well-being and achieve sustainable development has pushed economists in the West to find their own paths

THE CULTURE

10 Questions for Victor Cruz (10 Questions)

NFL star Victor Cruz talks about head injuries, surviving New Jersey and the sport he really wants to play

Wright Stuff (Architecture)

Can a house by a master dodge the dozer?

Jock Police (Sports)

Should colleges censor the posts and tweets of their athletes?