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.

Silence Is a Decree All Should Fear

Silence about history and culture contributes to misunderstandings and conflict
Umberto Eco
October 30, 2006

Tools of Engagement

Anti-US sentiment among Muslims is more than a public-relations problem
R. S. Zaharna
October 4, 2006

Japan's History Problem

Japan could lead its region, but only after admitting its mistakes during World War II
G. John Ikenberry
August 28, 2006

Van Gogh From the Sweatshop

Artists in China mass-reproduce masterpieces
Martin Paetsch
August 29, 2006

Muslim Myopia

Foreign policy might motivate some radicals, but the West is hardly alone in committing violence against Muslims
Irshad Manji
August 25, 2006