Coming up to speed: some SA reading for the new year

A few things worth reading.

In big news, South Africa has formally been asked to join the BRIC countries (which will now be the BRICS).  What difference will it make, though, if SA views its membership the wrong way -- as a way to band against Western countries rather than an opportunity to expand trade with them?

South Africa's economic policy is always a bit muddled, and in part it seems like it's because the government doesn't need to have and communicate to the people a clear plan, since the ruling ANC will dominate elections no matter what.  Look no further than Julius Malema, leader of the influential ANC Youth League and huge demagogue (and potential next in line to be President), to see what scares companies considering business in South Africa.

On a very different note, I found this article on art and inspiration to be a very interesting read, though I think the author's rejection of "devotion to God" as a possible motivator means he misses a possible solution.