RANDOM

The Econonist argues that the US dollar's recent plunge — to a 20-month low of $1.32 against the euro — was no surprise. A weak American housing market has taken its toll on the economy, and concerns that China's banks may start unloading their dollars have contributed to the currency's woes. Treasury Chairman Ben Bernanke remains coolheaded, probably assuming foreign investors will continue to invest in dollars and subsidize the country's deficit.

Time examines how Americans misjudge risk. We fear lightning, for example, even when we're 10 times as likely to die from falling out of bed. Scientists say we deal with modern problems with a "prehistoric brain" that evolved to spot potential dangers. "Our perception of risk lives largely in our feelings," a psychology professor contends.

The onset of cholera is quick and spectacular; you can be healthy one moment and dead within hours...

Reel Talk: Family Law