This essay by Martin Peretz is must reading. It's about the dearth of ideas that's afflicting the Democratic Party. Mr. Peretz tells it like it is: The United States has changed significantly over the last 30 years -- but liberals are still trotting out the same old tired playbook. He also has some choice words for his party for having treated Al Sharpton, among others, as a serious presidential contender.

A wise essay, and a brave one.