Editorials in 2008

The turmoil in the financial markets could lead to severe cost-cutting by governments, but US politicians would do well to note the benefits of continued support for clean energy and climate policies.

China's continuing openness on HIV is a welcome development and a model for other nations.

Self-regulation is a good first step — but synthetic-biology companies still need independent oversight.

The next US president will lead the country back onto the world stage in many arenas, including science.

Better to confront superstition with science than to disregard the superstitious.

As Canadian scientists work to maintain their international reputation, a little encouragement from the election candidates would be appreciated.

Mapping techniques, used with care, can offer fresh insights into data about the world around us.

Ecologists must research how best to intervene in and preserve ecosystems.

Beneath cancer's daunting complexity lies a simplicity that gives grounds for hope.

As we become an ever more urban species, cities will be a crucial front in the fight against climate change. Scientists, architects and planners must join forces to make our metropolitan future clean and sustainable.

A new series of essays looks back at scientific meetings that had world-changing consequences.

Scientific collaboration between East and West must survive the crisis in Georgia.

High-energy physicists should not gloss over fundamental conundrums.

Researchers need to adapt their institutions and practices in response to torrents of new data — and need to complement smart science with smart searching.

The hike in the price of oil means that new ways of fuelling transport are no longer fantasy.

Pakistan's elected governments should break the habit of a lifetime and give due priority to science.

The landmark Endangered Species Act in the United States needs more flexibility and fresh thinking — but not of the kind being advocated by the Bush administration.

Austria's most serious report of scientific misconduct in recent memory must be handled properly.

The FBI says it has evidence showing that Bruce Ivins was behind the 2001 anthrax attacks — but with his death, this will not be tested in court. A full enquiry into the case is needed if justice is to be done.