The idea that national governments, rather than churches, charities or extended families, might have to concern themselves with helping the old and the disabled is relatively new in history.

CNN: A Debt-Threatened Dream

But since the local-food movement looks suspiciously like old-fashioned protectionism masquerading as concern for the environment, helping poor countries is presumably not the point.

ECONOMIST: Ethical food

But if our concern is with saving lives and helping the planet's most vulnerable populations, then we need to focus first on how we can build more resilient, adaptable communities.

WSJ: Bj?rn Lomborg: Global Warming and Adaptability

Seth Diamond, commissioner of the city's Department of Homeless Services, said the growing number of homeless people on the subways is a "great concern" and a new infusion of resources is aimed at helping fix the problem.

WSJ: City Tallies an Increase in Homeless People on the Subways

The NUT said it was a matter of "very real concern" that six in 10 teachers had not received any training helping them to deal with behaviour problems.

BBC: Lessons 'tougher for male staff'

Helping to drive the expansion of online courses in the US has been a concern about the high costs of university and the rising level of student loan debts.

BBC: Online university to charge tuition fees

There's a bit of concern, I think in the west that Russia could be getting closer to OPEC and helping to manipulate the price of oil.

NPR: OPEC Cuts Production To Stem Drop In Oil Prices