COVER
Does Temperament Matter?
Call it reflexes in a crisis. Or instincts under pressure. Defining the qualities that a President needs is both essential and elusive
THE ECONOMY
Postcards from Europe's Financial Bust
From autoworkers to immigrants, from Paris to Reykjavík, the financial crisis is now hitting Europe's real economy
The Economy's Perilous Waters
Fears of a system-wide banking failure have receded, but it's not yet time to relax. Our guide to the economic minefield that lies ahead
EUROPE
Flash Gordon Brown (Downing Street Memo)
His opponents look on in frustration as Britain's Prime Minister is hailed as the unlikely savior of the global economy
LIFE
American Studies: Stars and Gripes (Education)
With the global reputation of the U.S. in tatters, young Europeans are spurning American studies
ARTS
Prodigal Pen (Authors)
A novel about India's dispossessed bags Aravind Adiga the Booker. Will that win him India's admiration?
Picasso: The Fine Art of Theft (Exhibition)
Three Paris museums explore Picasso's creative obsession with other artists' work
GLOBAL ADVISER
A Perfect Day in London (TIME Traveler)
Step out with chef Heston Blumenthal, author of The Big Fat Duck Cookbook
L'Institut Dior: A Fine Romance (Beauty)
Christian Dior opens a hotel spa at the historic Plaza Athénée
The Cull of the Wild: Brown Trout Galore (Diversions)
Cast a rod into public water for as little as $20 a day in Dullstroom
The Urban Hotel: A Night with the Masters (Check In)
This Madrid hotel boasts a five-star aesthetic sense
LETTERS
Heroes of the Planet (Inbox)
Bailout Fallout; In Defense of Wine's Terroir; Answer to Cancer: Prevention