Nicholas writes a compelling column – At Stake are More Than the Banks – on the need to remember the poor during the G20. He cites a world in which the top 500 individuals earn more than the bottom 400 million combined, and a rising malnutrition/starvation rate.

I read this in the context of considering the prevalence of a debate between whether international aid is a good thing or a bad thing. We’ve got to get away from false dichotomies and move toward more nuanced discussions of what works, what solutions we might try and how we build systems that truly empower people. If we are going to extend the fundamental principle that all human beings are created equal, then this is the time for innovation and invention not only with our financial systems but with our philanthropy and with international development as well.

Indeed, the time is now for moral leadership, for a greater sense of urgency and for thoughtful action.