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.

Islam and the West

The intricate relationship between West and Islam can take one of two directions – destruction or cooperation
June 8, 2006

Web Ads Present New Front in Hacker Wars

Thanks to hackers, every cyber-space innovation can have a downside
Riva Richmond
June 15, 2006

On a Russian Site, Cheap Songs With a Backbeat of Illegality

A music downloading service based in Russia is a global hit, even as questions swirl about its legality
Thomas Crampton
June 4, 2006

India's 'Idol' Recipe: Mix Small-Town Grit and Democracy

"India Idol" stirs motivation and parochial pride along with passion for music
Somini Sengupta
June 1, 2006

The Geopolitics of Football

Football’s political benefits cut across lines of nationalism, culture and historical opposition
Pascal Boniface
June 14, 2006