What makes the “Holy Land” holy? Only righteous behavior by its occupants can ever sanctify this or any other land. Will the leaders of two peoples display a level of righteousness that can put an end to years of conflict?

What ever happened to the search for truth and understanding the universe? These days, much of what’s done in the name of science has more to do with politics, the securing of grants for educational institutions, and the advancement of a company’s products.

The story wasn’t true. But the truth was in the story.

It appears the truth about human nature lies somewhere in the middle of the various extremes espoused by psychologists, behavioral scientists, philosophers and religious thinkers.

New research from the University of Chicago suggests that anthropomorphism — giving human characteristics to animals, things, or supernatural beings, and forming relationships with them — helps people deal with loneliness.

Are young people taking up, or making up, new forms of spirituality uniquely concerned with self-fulfilment? Does this lead to individualism at the expense of society and their own mental health? Or is this a scare story which gets cause and effect mixed up?