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.

So You Think 7/7 Has Brought Britain and America Together? Think Again

Because of its transparent and open society, the US is a target for global criticism
Gerard Baker
July 10, 2006

What’s Your Consumption Factor?

Extreme consumption is a bigger problem than population growth
Jared Diamond
January 3, 2008

Melding Faith and Tolerance

The intolerance of religious fundamentalists threatens democracy
Jim Hoagland
July 2, 2006

Russia’s Signal to Stations Is Clear: Cut US Radio

Russian government shuts down US-sponsored radio programming that covered local Russian news
Peter Finn
July 14, 2006

A McDonald’s Ally in Paris

McDonald’s takes root in a country that typically resents American culture
John Tabliabue
June 23, 2006