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.

Move Over, Barbie

Barbie loses out in Egypt and the Middle East to a descendent that dons “hijab”
Amany Abdel-Moneim
June 12, 2006

Muslims Craft Their Own Video Games

With new video games, Syrian firm creates “good guy role” for Muslims and Arabs
Rhonda Roumani
June 7, 2006

Panama: A Crossroad With Two-Ocean Views

Favorable exchange rates transform the country into one of the world’s most popular real-estate markets
Nancy Beth Jackson
June 8, 2006

Gulf States: Educational Reform's Real Goals

Foreign influences in education could slow social progress in Arab Gulf states
Ebtisam Al Kitbi
June 1, 2006

Hollywood Caters to a Ravenous Global Appetite

The world is going to the movies
William Booth
June 2, 2006