Jan 25th, 2005 · As Iraqis prepare to go to the polls, commentator Steve Coll reflects on Afghanistan, which held elections for the first time a few months ago. In part because of the success of those elections, Coll says, Afghanistan once again has room for much more than war and politics -- including a return to its poetic tradition.
Jan 22nd, 2005 · Ancient traditions and beliefs of the peoples of Mesoamerica influence Symphony No. 7 - A Toltec Symphony, composed by Philip Glass as a commissioned tribute to Leonard Slatkin, musical director of the National Symphony Orchestra.
Jan 21st, 2005 · How do centuries-old religions adapt to new discoveries or new technologies? How do different religious traditions view genetic engineering, cloning, or stem cell research? Can science and religion co-exist?
Jan 20th, 2005 · While foie gras is de rigueur at all celebratory meals in France, some activists are beginning to question the ethics behind its production. Eleanor Beardsley reports on the challenges to this billion-dollar industry.
Jan 16th, 2005 · A family in the Gaza Strip has turned the murder of their son into a new civic movement that focuses on redressing grievances through the judicial system rather than family and clan ties. NPR's Peter Kenyon reports.
Jan 14th, 2005 · Those looking for higher returns on a savings account might want to look to an online bank. Online savings institutions have lower overhead and some offer higher interest rates than traditional bricks-and-mortar institutions. NPR's Scott Horsley reports.
Jan 10th, 2005 · Mory Kanté, a musician from the West African nation of Guinea, made history two decades ago when his song "Yeke Yeke" hit the pop charts in France and launched his international career. Reviewer Banning Eyre says now Kanté is back with a new album, Sabou, that highlights his traditional roots.
Jan 10th, 2005 · Green Earth dry cleaning is a process billed as a nontoxic and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional cleaning methods. But preliminary studies suggest D-5, the silicone-based solvent used in the process, causes cancer in rats and may also be toxic to the liver. NPR's Allison Aubrey reports.