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.

Waiting for the Other Shoe to Drop: How Inevitable Is an Islamist Future?

Democratic elections may be the new route to power
Cameron Brown
August 15, 2006

Muslims Lash Out at Pope's Remarks

Rather than soothe the human spirit, religious leaders stir international conflict
Tracy Wilkinson
September 15, 2006

Living Under Police Protection: Advocates for Muslim Women Face Constant Danger

Human-rights advocates risk lives in assisting Muslim women to adjust culture
Cordula Meyer
September 11, 2006

What Went Wrong With the Dialogue Between Cultures?

Cultures must respect the “other” and search for proper language during moments of confrontation
Traugott Schoefthaler
September 21, 2006

Investing in Ethics: The Norwegian Model

The country invests its oil profits to improve Norwegian society today and for future generations
Manfred Ertel
September 15, 2006