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 Gentle Dragon

China's "charm offensive," through Confucius Institutes, wins allies around the globe
Jocelyn Chey
November 29, 2007

In France, Discrimination on Upswing as Violence Smolders

A culture that attempts to preserve itself through discrimination may be beyond rescue
Katrin Bennhold
December 10, 2007

The UN's Death Blow

More countries re-examine and question the need for the death penalty
Louise Arbour
December 19, 2007

African Aid Projects That Work: Partnerships on the Ground, Not Donations From a Distance

Through partnerships, NGOs aim to create projects that will eventually become self-sufficient
January 1, 2008

At 71, Physics Professor Is a Web Star

Free MIT physics lectures are a huge hit for students of all nationalities
Sara Rimer
December 20, 2007