Premature?

Did the Nobel committee reward noble intentions...
Aspirations, not accomplishment?


Illustration: 'Peace Dove' by Jeff Clark

By GREGORY KATZ (AP) 10/9/09

LONDON — The surprise choice of President Barack Obama for the Nobel Peace Prize drew praise from much of the world Friday even as many pointed out the youthful leader has not yet accomplished much on the world stage.

The new president was hailed for his willingness to reach out to the Islamic world, his commitment to curtailing the spread of nuclear weapons and his goal of bringing the Israelis and Palestinians into serious, fruitful negotiations.

Who were the other people worthy of consideration this year? And what are the accomplishments of previous Peace Prize Laureates? Scott Simon offers answers and perspective...

Audio: NPR's Weekend Edition Saturday, October 10.
Host Scott Simon also engaged conservative author Reihan Salam on the same subject as part of his Week In Review segment.
Other Peace Prize facts & figures are available from the Washington Post