COVER
Why Always Mario? (Sports)
Manchester City and Italy striker Mario Balotelli has the eyes of the footballing world on him. But it's not always his remarkable skills with the ball that keep fans and detractors enthralled
UNITED STATES
Outsmarting the Surge
The devastating superstorm was a sign of things to come. How we can better prepare for a catastrophe-prone future
The Case For Mitt Romney (U.S. Election 2012)
He may not inspire. But America needs a ruthlessly efficient reformer
The Case For Barack Obama (U.S. Election 2012)
Sure, we know he's not a savior. But he's a brave leader, worthy of four more years
SPECIAL SECTION
25 Best Inventions of the Year (Technology)
Robots, rovers and the rest of 2012's most important innovations, from the affordable to the extreme
BRIEFING
Wine Racket (Economy)
Fine wine is in high demand. But how do you know your Château Lafite is real?
ESSAY
No One Asked Them for ID
How much is underage-groupie culture to blame for the Jimmy Savile scandal?