Offers a clarification of competitiveness within international trade, particularly its impact upon the mix of goods produced in the United States. Dispels some of the myths about competitiveness that emanate from the false correlation between specific businesses and their country-of-origin. Discusses high productivity as both a cause and an effect…

Reviews the current situation of mathematics in France and its potential situation in the future. Cites the lack of university teaching posts for fueling a new brain drain to the United States. Claims that the situation threatens to erode some of France's most prized intellectual achievements. (CW)