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Senate's Do-or-Die Time for Don't Ask Don't Tell Dec 02, 2010

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The Pew Research Center says 58% of Americans favor repealing "Don't Ask, Don't Tell." The Pentagon says almost 70% of active duty troops and their families agree, but combat soldiers don't see it that way, and that could mean the 17-year old measure stays on the books. Also, two more conservatives announce support for Fiscal Commission plan, and big surprises today in world soccer.

WikiLeaks: The World's Secrets Now Available Online Dec 01, 2010

Show notes

WikiLeaks is said to be starting an age of "involuntary transparency." But as governments and businesses struggle to beef up cyber-security, WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange says they’re not dealing with hackers, but leakers. Also, the White House’s debt commission on “The Moment of Truth.” On Reporter's Notebook, bipartisanship -- in Washington.?

Washington Rumbles over Taxes and Unemployment Benefits Nov 30, 2010

Show notes

The President and Republican leaders concede their differences but promise a working relationship. Also, more from WikiLeaks on North Korea, South Korea and China.

Has START Stalled? Nov 29, 2010

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President Obama wants the new START treaty ratified by the Senate during the lame-duck session. We hear about nuclear weapons, missile defense and Republican opposition. Also, WikiLeaks rips the lid off US diplomacy.

The Internet and the Human Brain Nov 26, 2010

Show notes

When it comes to communications, the biggest thing since the printing press is the Internet, but it turns out that some of the electronic gadgets being given as holiday presents are altering the way the human brain functions. Neuroscientists are trying to figure out how that's happening. In this discussion, which originally aired in June, we debate whether the outcome is good or bad. Also, a still-reeling Haiti prepares for elections, and the changing concept of marriage.

The Psychology and Joy of Eating Nov 25, 2010

Show notes

When Americans sit down to Thanksgiving feasts, many of us eat until we're long past the point of full. Why do we eat what we eat? How do we stop eating too much and start enjoying more of the foods that are good for us? And how do the joys of cooking and sharing meals shape our memories and sense of family? Also, a reality check on Thanksgiving history.

North Korea Flexes Its Muscles Nov 24, 2010

Show notes

Yesterday's North Korean attack on South Korea was one of the most provocative since the Korean War. Does it leave the US with any good options? Also, unemployment and the economic rebound, and a progress report on "National Opt-Out Day."

Our Unsustainable Table: Another Global Food Crisis? Nov 23, 2010

Show notes

Fifty-seven-million Americans don't get enough to eat, and massive amounts of food go to waste. At the same time much of the world depends on American agri-business. Is going local a better way? Also, tensions on the Korean Peninsula soar after the North attacks. On Reporter's Notebook, were US and Afghan leaders tricked into bogus talks about peace with a Taliban imposter?

US, NATO Agree to Stay in Afghanistan until 2014 Nov 22, 2010

Show notes

Forget the start of withdrawal from Afghanistan in July of next year. The US and NATO have now extended major combat until 2014, even though President Karzai wants forces reduced. We look at the aftermath of the summit in Lisbon. Also, the TSA responds to traveler outcry over scanners and pat-downs, and Pope Benedict surprises the Roman Catholic Church.

LA County Bans Plastic Bags Nov 19, 2010

Show notes

25% of the world now bans plastic bags, and Los Angeles County is one of a growing number of US communities getting on board. Will the limits of cloth bags like Grandma used to carry require thinking about what goes in them? What are the consequences for the economy? President Obama has arrived in Lisbon for a NATO summit on the alliance’s global mission and on strategy for Afghanistan in the next four years. Also, the big news at the LA Auto Show so far is the Chevy Volt winning Green Car of the Year--three times.

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