A Point of View: Clive James

What does the reaction to Susan Boyle’s performance on a television talent show tell us about the progress of feminism, asks Clive James. Is appearance still important – even in the world of serious singing?

Clive James reflects on what it takes to make – and break – a good reputation in public life. He concludes that the government’s latest euphemism ‘reputational damage’, to describe the fallout concerning Gordon Brown’s special adviser Damian McBride, is fooling no-one.

The cane toad was brought to Australia for pest control - since when an army has marched across the continent, multiplying as it goes. But surely its own example questions the logic of trying to wipe out this gamekeeper turned poacher, says Clive James.

After years of watching late-night porn in anonymous hotel rooms - for research - its purpose is clear, says Clive James: to keep one's mind off sex while one's partner is absent.

Clive James reflects on the downfall of a distinguished Australian judge, who was jailed for perjury after lying about a speeding offence.

Getting rich for its own sake will look as stupid as bodybuilding does at the point when the neck gets thicker than the head, says Clive James, as he predicts the end of the era of silly-money.

Whatever you believe in when it comes to the birth of Christ, even if you believe in nothing at all, no one can doubt the personal force of Jesus says Clive James, as he reflects on life beyond the grave, Shakespeare’s beliefs and the man and spirit of Jesus Christ.

The hardest part of Christmas is not socialising with family, nor hauling coal or peeling potatoes - it's wrapping the presents, says Clive James, as he anticipates with some dread the seasonal tasks awaiting him as he uncovers the deeper meaning of wrapping gifts.

Forget proud traditions and cultural exports - a nation's identity is bolstered if Americans know about it. Just ask the Canadians, says Clive James, as he explores the question of national identity and why it really is preferable to see Santa and his elves in Lapland rather than in the New Forest!

Are we able to think clearly when surrounded by mess, because chaos is inherent in all our minds - even those of the great writers and thinkers. Clive James reveals why he is glad the chaos of his own office is not featured in a new exhibition called 'Writers Rooms'.

As a new film on the notorious Baader Meinhof gang is released, Clive James discusses the glamourisation of terror in the movie industry. He argues that the movie version of history is often now in danger of replacing the real historical event.

The odd expletive escapes most people's mouths in times of stress, but when we fall back on swear words just for effect have we really just run out of ideas? Clive James turns his attention to swearing and argues that bad language used constantly is no language at all.

Rational choices, reasoned discussions, respect for lawful institutions: that's what Clive James says he wants from his action heroes, arguing that the days of mindless Hollywood action are over. He says a new climate of reason prevails - and it extends well beyond Hollywood.

As President-elect Barack Obama prepares to take office, Clive James examines the significance of the word ‘election’ and its relationship with democracy depending on the country you happen to live in.

Forget super-rich baddies who seek to destroy the world with a death ray. Boring! Clive James reflects on how money is losing its cachet, while failing to recycle properly is what leads to accusations of destroying the world.