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.

Beyond salvation

"The sectarian violence that resulted in the cancellation of the Miss World beauty pageant in Nigeria threw into sharp focus the country's ominous religious divide."
Gamal Nkrumah
November 28, 2002

The Galling Rise of English

English replaces French as the language of Europe and francophone EU officials grumble.
February 27, 2003

Shop Online? Security’s Still a Worry for S'poreans

"That, and the need to see and touch, is why less than 25% of surfers here buy online - compared to half in Europe, 60% in the US. "
Natalie Soh
May 28, 2003

Water Tap Often Shut to South Africa's Poor

Poor South Africans struggle with government's decision to set costs on water use.
Ginger Thompson
May 29, 2003

The Rise of the Net Dissidents in China

Government tightening censorship of cyberspace as the Internet becomes more popular.
Frank Ching
May 22, 2003