I think that the main reason for the practical intelligence and the political good sense of the Americans is their long experience with juries in civil cases. I do not know whether a jury is useful to the litigants, but I am sure it is very good for those who have to decide the case. I regard it as one of the most effective means of popular education at society’s disposal.

Dissent offers commentaries on jury duty from Alexis de Toqueville, Joanne Barkan, Paul Berman, Susan Cheever, Nicolaus Mills, Maxine Phillips, Ruth Rosen, Jim Sleeper, Michael Walzer, and Darryl Lorrenzo Wellington. [more inside]
posted by anotherpanacea on Feb 18, 2008 - 8 comments

Peter Levine promotes civic engagement in Maryland youth and is working with Prince George's County to create an 'information commons.' He writes about citizenship (1, 2, 3), Iraq (1, 2, 3), literature (1, 2, 3), and other things.
posted by anotherpanacea on Aug 20, 2007 - 4 comments

Super(-expensive) Playgrounds are nice to look at, but what makes a playground fun? Experiments in play: Snug & Outdoor (1, 2, 3) Mcdonald's (1, 2, 3) KaBOOM! (1, 2, 3) Boundless Play (1, 2, 3)
posted by anotherpanacea on Apr 22, 2007 - 34 comments