But the rule seems to be that the bigger and more life-changing the decision, the less it will seem like a decision at all.

It seems inevitable that the magic of the written word will fade.

Nothing is perfect. Life is messy. Relationships are complex. Outcomes are uncertain. People are irrational.

Is it possible that literacy standards are falling because young Australians are growing up in a culture in which they can be entertained and informed, and in which they can communicate effectively, without having to master any but the most rudimentary literacy skills?

Reading is a huge effort for many people, a bore for others, and, believe it or not, many people prefer watching TV.

Polls are no substitute for leadership because, at its very essence, leadership is about giving people what they don't already have - a sense of vision, inspiration, or even an adequate grasp of a particular subject.

So, if falling crime rates coincide with the rise of violent video games and increasing violence on TV and at the cinema, should we conclude that media violence is causing the drop in crime rates?