Globalization wields powerful influence over societies and cultures. Business travelers and tourists both observe and distribute new ideas. New ideas, interactions, foods and products are tried, then embraced or discarded. With the internet or satellite television, films, publications, photographs, news reports and cartoons can travel instantly, entertaining or angering audiences around the globe. With social media like Facebook or Twitter, individuals offer news and own instant pronouncements on trends. Whether slowly through immigration or immediately online, these connections bring about some convergence of norms on fashion to human rights while also provoking challenges from traditionalists. A global society has emerged, and it’s tightly linked.

Keepin' It Cool: How the Air Conditioner Made Modern America

An invention distracts people from their deteriorating environment
Rebecca J. Rosen
July 18, 2011

Bollywood Sets Sights on Wider Market

The industry diversifies its product line
Shabnam Mahmood, Manjushri Mitra
July 13, 2011

The Fall of the House of Murdoch

Governments may put the brakes on media consolidation
Jonathan Schell
July 11, 2011

Obama Tries to Stop Execution in Texas of Mexican Killer

Texas governor disregards the US Constitution
Chris McGreal
July 6, 2011

Eastern Japan Edgy as Power Demand Soars

Energy conservation in Japan is no longer a choice
July 4, 2011