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.

The Social Era of the Web Starts Now

And a complicated clash will determine whether Google or Facebook dominates it
John Rennie, Glenn Zorpette
June 3, 2011

Not a Laughing Matter

British royal wedding is off limits for comedy shows
Peter Hartcher
May 12, 2011

Ai Weiwei's Incarceration Stumps German Culture Vultures

China boosts Ai Weiwei’s international acclaim with detention and censorship
Aya Bach
May 2, 2011

Bordeaux Vineyards Acquire Taste for Chinese Buyers

Sacrificing a few vineyards to Chinese investors could open a new market
Alexandra Topping
April 20, 2011

Chopstick Diplomacy in Chile

Chinese restaurants win fans in South America
Nathaniel Parish Flannery
April 18, 2011