Is Nick Cohen right about the left? His critics reply

Last week, we printed an extract from Nick Cohen's provocative new book, What's Left?, a searing account of how the British liberal-left has lost its way and, in the process, turned a blind eye to Islamic fascism. Cohen's piece sparked a huge response both online and in print. Here, Peter Oborne, the distinguished commentator and author, reviews the book, and other political thinkers have their say.

In Rocky’s footsteps

Ever since the first Rocky film, fans have been running up the most famous steps in America in homage to their boxing hero. And their stories are just as inspirational as that of their idol, Sarfraz Manzoor discovers.

How racist is Britain?

Events on Big Brother have ignited a fierce debate about Britain and racism. While researching his new book about the British psyche, philosopher Julian Baggini spent six months living in Rotherham, Yorkshire. Here, he explains why he doesn't believe most white Britons are racists - even though he heard racist language almost everywhere he went

Secrets and spies

The movie rights have been snapped up, but the book that apparently sealed the fate of Alexander Litvinenko, Blowing Up Russia, leaves few clues about his murder.

‘I had a lot of guts back then’

In the 70s, Patti Smith was the high priestess of punk. Then she traded in fame for a quiet life at home with her children. Now, aged 60, she talks to Laura Barton about her new collection of poetry, the loss of her husband and how she still hopes to write a literary masterpiece.

Robert Anton Wilson

Obituary: The science fiction writer who turned Playboy readers' conspiracy theories into drug-assisted cult fiction.