Zeitlinks

The Mets collapse, as does the Dow, in a week filled with less than glamorous exits. The bailout is back and Biden v. Palin '08 is primed for the center stage. All that and it's almost the weekend, what more could you want? Your weekly Zeitlinks.

Nick:
1. A summary statement: If you get all your news from TV, you need to read this. Tyler Cowen's bullet points on the financial crises. We call these truthbombs, let 'em fly at your next dinner party and then walk away from the stunned crowd.

2. How much is $700 billion: What the Fed's cash could contribute to development goals around the world. Presented by Duncan Green, head of Oxfam Research, at his wonderful new blog.

3. Harnessing windfall revenues in developing countries: I have decided my thesis will focus on the extraneous effects of extractive industries on developing countries. If you're into that type of thing check out these two Oxford men offer their economic policy advice.

4. Careful Tour Guides: When I tell people I want to work in Afghanistan I get enough confused looks...imagine explaining that your going there on holiday?!

5. Service: A striking photo essay on the men and women of our generation's two wars (HT: Chris Blatmann).

Patrick:

1. Free Traitors: Mark Thoma points to this TNR article, which prominently featurs Jagdish Bhagwati (my favorite trade economist). Nothing new, but great overview on the politics of trade.

2. Australia OKs BHP takeover of Rio: Huge news in the mining world as the Aussies give the green light on BHP's takeover bid of Rio. BHP and Rio are two of the most important mining conglomerates in the world. The last regulatory hurdle is the European Commission, due to rule by January 15th.

3. Traders are going long on duct tape and shot guns: The stock market is a poor indicator. The credit indicators are still terrible, and there is an unprecedented investor flight to gold. Not good.

4. Politics and Paulson: a rant: I've been meaning to direct readers to this for a couple days. Dave's reactions to the failed House vote earlier this week are spot on, with a strong historical tie-in.

5. Looking for leaders? Look to Washington: Wilbon has the Redskins ranked second in the league after dominating Dallas last weekend. Yes, THAT Wilbon.