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.

Bonfire of the Pieties

Religious images and humor are a part of Islam heritage
Amir Taheri
February 8, 2006

Insults from America

Indian call centers receive irate calls from US
Mike McPhate
January 13, 2006

Luxury Industry Goes Global, Knock-Offs Follow

Tale of an illegal empire exposes the global trade in counterfeit goods
Alessandra Galloni
February 3, 2006

China’s Tyranny Has the Best Hi-Tech Help

Western Internet companies aid Chinese government in massive censorship
Jonathan Mirsky
January 18, 2006

No Level Playing Field in Football’s Globalisation

Football’s changing allegiances equalize play at the World Cup
Larry Elliott
January 14, 2006