Politicians wishing to run down their opponents in the eyes of the public are quick to level accusations of dishonesty. But these 'lies' aren't always what they seem, writes Mark Rolfe.
The nation has been transfixed by the crisis over the Liberal leadership and hence prime ministership since Australia Day, write Tim Harcourt and Richard Holden.
Constantly changing the law after media outcries over particular cases produces distortions in the law for short-term political gain, writes David Brown.
It's possible that foreign aid might do a better job at buying influence and deterring aggression than spending $12 billion on new jet fighters, writes Adam Lockyer.
The key problem facing Labor leader Bill Shorten is one he has in common with every past leader: remaining true to Labor values, while adapting them to a changing Australia, writes Mark Rolfe.
While Senator Conroy's comments to Lieutenant-General Angus Campbell were offensive, what is more significant is the context that forced a distinguished military commander into a politically charged exchange in the first place, writes Gavin Mount.
