COVER
How Financial Madness Overtook Wall Street (Financial Crisis)
For years the financial markets roared along as if there were nothing to fear. Now it's payback time — and all of us will be feeling the pain
BUSINESS
Global Fallout
The meltdown on Wall Street hit markets around the world. As companies count their losses, the human cost emerges
UNITED STATES
Maxed-Out Moms (Campaign '08)
A new TIME poll shows John McCain and Sarah Palin are winning over the swing voters that both sides need in November. But will it last?
WORLD
Death in Birth
The number of women in poor countries who die in childbirth has barely changed in two decades — and this despite a host of medical breakthrough. How can the incidence of this devastating human tragedy be reduced?
GLOBAL BUSINESS
Can China Compete? (Manufacturing)
The nation's vaunted export machine is losing ground. Here's how factories are trying to get back on track
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Curtain Call (Theater)
Alan Ayckbourn's comeback is a reminder that he is among the greatest living playwrights