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.

Study Warns of Stagnation in Arab Societies

Arab intellectuals have identified what is holding back the Arab world: isolation and repression.
Barbara Crossette
July 2, 2002

Magazines Take China Plunge in Search of Growth

American magazines break into a fast-growing Chinese market.
February 7, 2003

'A Global Image on the Way Down'

America's image abroad isn't all roses.
Robert A. Levine
December 13, 2002

Chinese-Language Classes Full, But Teachers Scarce in US

Desperate for qualified Chinese teachers, the US pours federal funds into cross-global recruitment
Ben Arnoldy
April 2, 2007

History 1980-2000 Has Disappeared Into the Ether. Sorry

Digital technology may not protect history as much as everyone assumes
Ben Macintyre
March 23, 2007