Every Friday we take a look back at the week’s headlines, centering on a theme we’ve singled out as particularly important. This week, despite the apathy that greets the idea that meaningful change is possible, protestors continued to make their voices heard. And beyond the streets we were
* Optimism in Tripoli over oil reserves, but the government is paralyzed, the army is just another militia. * Further violence in Athens as bailout deal goes to Greek Parliament. * Inventor of 5-Hour Energy spent his twenties as a monk trying to still his mind. * Paul Krugman vs. other economists—"
* With the foreclosure settlement behind them, banks can look forward to more lawsuits and criminal charges. * [China] would much rather see future consumption...via lower household savings than through splurges on credit cards. * For those who know, it's not America vs. China in a battle for supremacy, it&
* Panetta says not even our biggest "bunker buster" could reach underground Iranian nuclear installations. * Brazil demands that Twitter ban users who warn of police speed traps and roadblocks. * Coffee shops invade India, and young people enjoy them mostly for hanging out. * Interview with Berlusconi as he prowls around
* The key question is not whether Vladimir Putin—and Putinism—will survive. They will not. * China reacts to jumping inflation by announcing it will raise the minimum wage 13% each year until 2015. * China's continuing PR nightmare. * When young Chinese want to learn American slang, they turn to
* Syrian forces said to be attacking civilian areas in Homs; Putin proposes advice, angering European diplomats. * Italy imposes emergency measures to conserve gas supplies during Europe's big freeze. * 100,000 Muscovites turned out in sub-zero weather to protest Putin. * List of jobs held in a Medieval city.
* Electrodes on the brain may be the shortcut to the 10,000-hour talent rule. * Willpower is the root of all happiness; a new book explains how to exercise yours to get more. * Diners travel to a Hudson Valley monastery to experience mindful eating, where each bite can last 20
* Obama returns $200,000 linked to the family of a fugitive casino magnate. * Nice things about Attila the Hun. * Notes on whether Italy can change its ways, or remain "more or less equally honored and dishonored." * Despite the lock-out, the NBA is doing very well, with viewership
* After teacher arrests, LA school performs security theater for parents, temporarily replacing its entire staff. * When did the middle finger become offensive? * In the U.S., an invented country freed from its past, a tough match lays ahead for soccer vs. football. * Researchers force monkeys and humans to watch Clint
* New report on Twitter use in Africa reduced to very few characters. * Breakdown of bride pricing in southern Nigeria. * Arnold Bread offers 40 varieties, "and that is just counting the sliced breads, not the thins or buns." * Iran not amused by Samsung ad showing Israel accidentally blowing up
