Problem Attic. Insert witty tagline here.

ChangeThis

If you’re looking for some issue-based, challenging internet discussion, ChangeThis thinks they have the solution.

I’m sure they can say it better than me, so here’s how they describe ChangeThis:

In the Internet (and especially blogging), we see the glimpse of an alternative [to mainstream media]. Taken over time, many of the best blogs create a thoughtful, useful argument that actually teaches readers something.

Alas, blogging is falling into the same trap as many other forms of media. The short form that works so well online attracts more readers than the long form. Worse, most blogs stake out an emotional position and then preach to the converted, as opposed to challenging people to think in a new way.

So weʼre launching ChangeThis. The bet?

Weʼre betting that a significant portion of the population wants to hear thoughtful, rational, constructive arguments about important issues. Weʼre certain that the best of these manifestos will spread, hand to hand, person to person, until these manifestos have reached a critical mass and actually changed the tone and substance of our debate. [From their manifesto (PDF)]

So pretty much, they put out these “papers,� each on a single issue, and each with a solid, well-reasoned, thoroughly expounded point of view (well, more so than the average blog at least). Three of the first batch that I found worthwhile:

• The Art of the Start is a must-read for anyone planning to start their own bwuisness.
• For Richer, For Poorer is a look at same-sex marriage and some of the financial/economic and human-rights considerations behind marriage. It’s from a USian point of view, and you may not agree with it, but it’s an interesting read.
• How To Be a Boor is a manual of e-mail etiquette. Short and to the point, everyone should read this.