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.

France's Mysterious Embrace of Blogs

France leads the world in using blogs to post thoughts and complaints online
Thomas Crampton
August 4, 2006

China’s Nomads Trade Up for an Easier Ride on the Range

Ethnic Tibetans put their horses out to pasture
Jim Yardley
July 31, 2006

As China Ages, a Shortage of Cheap Labor Looms

Some government policies exacerbate the rapid aging of China’s population
Howard W. French
June 30, 2006

Dare Violate a Copyright in Hong Kong? A Boy Scout May Be Watching Online

Hong Kong authorities recruit teen watchdogs for internet music and video piracy
Keith Bradsher
July 24, 2006

Immigration – and the Curse of the Black Legend

Oftentimes, the US forgets its Spanish roots
Tony Horwitz
July 12, 2006