The Transitions Trends blogger is somewhat pessimistic to say the least. I have to agree, but mostly because I like to see things done quicker than they are currently being carried out.

Praktike has a few good notes and links worth having a look at. My favorite is this tidbit from an interview with Saudi Crown Prince Abdullah:

Question: Do you expect this to ever become a representative democracy?

Abdullah: I believe it is now a democracy.

I hope that isn’t telling of the future. As he notes, John is more optimistic.