Winter 2008
Features
Darwin's universal appeal
In anticipation of Darwin’s bicentennial next year, Martin Rees praises the accessibility of the scientist’s ideas and asks whether the natural selection he described on Earth points to life among the stars.
Crossing the class divide
Lynsey Hanley argues that perceptions of educational ability and achievement are tainted by class. She asks how we can ensure that working-class children get the same opportunities to succeed.
The Point of Education
Matthew Taylor, chief executive of the RSA, introduces the new Education Charter, a broader vision of education in the 21st century - and he’s asking for your support.
A Line in the Sand
The bellicose rhetoric used by both Bush and Bin Laden now belongs to another age, argues Gilles Kepel. While US Middle East policy under Obama is still unclear, Europe and the Gulf may combine to offer solutions.
Beyond boom and bust
Swinging between the regulations of government and the excesses of the market has proven flaws, says Michael Thompson. Here he outlines how cultural theory can offer a new economic paradigm.
Drowning by numbers
Was the banking crisis caused by an over-reliance on risk models based on inherently unknowable future events? John Kay analyses the probability that Keynes was on the money.
Guitar Hero
Tod Machover believes that, through technology, everyone can experience the transformative power of music. But creating music is not just fun, it can also aid mental and physical health.
Education matters
Ian McGimpsey, senior manager of education at the RSA, and Peter Walker, principal of the Evelyn Grace Academy in Brixton, believe there is a need to both state clearly the aims of schooling nationally and provide an alternative to the current model for secondary education.
Last word - Object of the year
Following Ben Schott's successful RSA lecture, he explores an object that has defined the year. In 2008 it was the hand.
Journal Extra
Michael Thompson
Michael Thompson and Matthew Taylor discuss how cultural theory can offer a new economic paradigm.
News
Academy opens to acclaim
"This is a day to be proud of - we are rewriting the model of how a school is run," said Daulton Redmond, vice principal of the Academy.
Design award for Bloxham
The RSA's Bicentenary Medal 2008 was awarded to Tom Bloxham MBE, founder of Urban Splash, for his commitment to the regeneration of Britain's inner cities.
RSA Arts & Ecology - from project to centre
The aim is to be an increasingly recognised resource and catalyst that promotes debate on art and social change and commissions and supports artists interested in the challenges of our time.
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