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.

Saving the World, One Video Game at a Time

Designers develop new games to teach the strategies of peace
Clive Thompson
July 23, 2006

Unearthing Pope’s Real Message

Any “us versus them” attitude weakens religion in a globalized world
Nazry Bahrawi
September 22, 2006

S. Koreans Search Far and Wide for a Wife

With a preference for sons, South Koreans create a shortage of brides
Barbara Demick
September 25, 2006

Helping Those Devoured by the Dragon

The Communist Party keeps close watch as a growing community of NGOs help China’s disadvantaged
Andreas Lorenz
September 5, 2006