Andy Schmookler

We Americans who care about what our nation is supposed to be, and who recognize that our nation has become in the eyes of the world, are deeply embarrassed. (Embarrassed

The case of Graham Platner in Maine has put on display something important about the difference between the two political parties.

Whenever people surprise me, I feel compelled to ask: "What did I fail to notice or understand?" Clearly, something was going on that I didn't realize.

Starting in the late 1960s, I strove to become a member of the human race — to expand my sense of belonging beyond my American identity and embrace our whole incredible, troubled species.

There are times when a nation -- or even humanity itself -- comes to a fork in the road, and a very great deal depends on whether the best of the paths is taken.

I've long been a sucker for what are called "chick flicks." Except -- not a sucker, because I really do believe that finding true love in a romantic

When science requires a civilization to change its answer to some Big Questions, the change is apt to be slow.

One thing the conservatives were right about back in the 1990s — as the nation was growing increasingly polarized — was this: America was undergoing a kind of moral breakdown.

I recently tried out for the softball team at the retirement community where I live. At 80, I was curious to see how much of the ballplayer I used to be was still there.

Always wanting the world to make sense, I love a good detective story. The detective knows that seemingly inexplicable events generally have an explanation.