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.

Globalization Unchecked: How Alien Media is Suffocating Real Culture

Globalization is undercutting traditional cultures in the developed world
Ramzy Baroud
November 23, 2009

The Fight Over the Future of Food

How should the second Green Revolution unfold?
Claudia Parsons, Russell Blinch, Svetlana Kovalyova
November 18, 2009

Obama Backs Non-Censorship; Beijing, Apparently, Does Not

Obama’s discussion with Chinese students blocked from domestic media
Keith B. Richburg
November 17, 2009

A New Mosque in Nicaragua Fires Up the Rumor Mill

A new mosque makes Nicaraguans learn more about faiths around the world
Steve Stecklow
November 16, 2009

Swiss Referendum Stirs a Debate About Islam

Switzerland losing its status as an open society could lead to challenges in global trade
Deborah Ball, Anita Greil
November 10, 2009