To the Point
Will Pope Francis Be an Agent of Change?
Pope Francis helped renew diplomatic relations between the US and Cuba. Now he's visiting both countries, with a lot to say about their different ideologies, economies and treatment of those Jesus called "the least among us."
By Warren Olney • • 52m ListenPope Francis helped renew diplomatic relations between the US and Cuba. Now he's visiting both countries, with a lot to say about their different ideologies, economies and treatment of those Jesus called "the least among us."
Also, why defection stories could battle ISIS propaganda. On today's Talking Point, the best-known drug for a rare disease has been sold for $13.50. Suddenly it costs $750. Can the health system sustain that and other gigantic increases?
Pope Francis climbs the steps to the altar upon arriving to give the first mass of his visit to Cuba in Havana's Revolution Square, September 20, 2015. Across from the square is a portrait of Che Guevara on the front of the Interior Ministry building. (Tony Gentile/Reuters)
In this episode
3 storiesWhy Defection Stories Could Battle ISIS Propaganda
By the deft use of social media, the Islamic State has projected an image of unity and determination that's helped to recruit new members. Now, there's a report that 58 ISIS defectors are speaking out about why they've left. It comes from the International Center for the Study of Radicalization in London.
Read the story7 minWill Pope Francis Be an Agent of Change?
Yesterday, Pope Francis met with Cuban President Raúl Castro and former President Fidel. He said Mass in Havana's Revolution Square. He also delivered what's being called a "gentle" critique of Communist ideology and Cuba's suppression of dissenters.
Read the story35 minWhen Drug Prices Skyrocket Overnight
Specialists who treat rare diseases are protesting gigantic increases in the prices of old and familiar drugs. The cost of one medicine jumped 5000 percent -- overnight. The headline in today's New York Times is, "Drug Goes From $13.50 To $750 Overnight."
Read the story9 min
