The columnist using the pseudonym Spengler has made the Asia Times a focal point of attention for internet literati. His writings range over a variety of economic, social, artistic and historical subjects. His writings are leavened with pessimistic assessments of our present civilization based upon what he sees as an absence of moral values. Agree or disagree with him, one has to admit that he writes clearly and skillfully draws upon an impressive storehouse of knowledge in order to get his point across...or in order to manipulate his arguments in order to reach the desired conclusion. Depending on your point of view.