Counterpoint by Mark Nicol – The human predicament – Towards a holistic solution

Reconciling the wisdom of religion, philosophy and science in pursuit of a sustainable future is no easy task, but stripping the illusions we comfort ourselves with can at least help us squarely face the challenges ahead.

Engaging culturally diverse communities during COVID-19

The COVID-19 response in Victoria, Australia needs a stronger focus on working with poorer and culturally and linguistically diverse communities to contain the virus and allow the lifting of lockdowns.

Inequality was rising before COVID-19

The UNSW Social Policy Research Centre and the Australian Council of Social Services have released a new analysis of inequality in Australia pre-COVID-19, providing a baseline to measure the impact of the pandemic on income and wealth inequality.

Plays well with others

Like all countries, Australia doesn’t always live up to its highest ideals. But our sportspeople can help us strive to be our best – and show the better face of Australia to the world.

Counterpoint by Mark Nicol – Beyond the constant growth economy

A conscious policy of global depopulation may be the only way to ensure a sustainable human future, in partnership with a radical retooling of the economy to preserve, rather than consume, the Earth’s resources.

A sporting chance for liberty

The over-regulation of Australian Rules football is an example of the nanny state nature of Australia itself. Simplifying the rules of sport and life, rather than adding to them, might produce better outcomes for us all.

Toys for the boys: White men’s business at the War Memorial

The National Gallery of Australia has slashed its annual acquisitions from 3000 pieces a year to 100 and other core institutions are struggling, but there is no shortage of funding for the Australian War Memorial to present a very ‘Aussie’ view of history.

Counterpoint by Mark Nicol – Make room for the future

The economic, social and environmental problems today share the same root cause of over-population, and only a steady reduction in the global population will offer hope of a sustainable future.

Pandemic pandemonium

The world’s current troubles pale in the light of previous plagues. A terrible onslaught of bubonic plague in the sixth century, for example, abruptly ended Emperor Justinian’s dream of reunifying the Roman empire and caused massive geopolitical upheaval.

Gambling with sport’s integrity

Those who profit from gambling usually emphasise the fun it may involve. But the potential for corruption of the sport that people love is enormous.

Tackling the stigma around public housing

To destigmatise public housing, fundamental changes in our housing system are needed. Better design, maintenance and stories are helpful, but can only do so much.

The dog’s breakfast of strata pet laws

NSW pet tenancy laws do not reflect the needs of society, with strata by-laws impacting the vulnerable, say UNSW experts.