Well, you wouldn't expect Bush and his ilk to read the world press, would you?

I'm sure there are biases in parts of the New York Times, but I've always found it a treat to read. There's a lot of coverage, from many different perspectives. The official editorial position of the Times may be one thing - but the newspaper gives plenty of space to opposing parties.

My local newspaper, the Sacramento Bee, regularly carries editorials from newspapers all over the world. I can't say I know many people (other than Mudcatters) who read the newspaper as thoroughly as I do, but the information is available.

Still, reading isn't everything. To get an idea of the political climate of another country, you almost have to make an extended visit - and then you have to get yourself involved in the right conversations. Better yet, live on another continent for a year or two, and your eyes will really be opened. I did intelligence work in Berlin for two years - that was quite an education.

-Joe Offer, in the mountains of California-