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.

The Mural Maze

Iran sees no problem with plastering walls with anti-Zionist propaganda courtesy of Israeli technology
Robert Tait
February 8, 2006

A Party Girl Leads China’s Online Revolution

China’s popular bloggers challenge online censors
Howard W. French
November 25, 2005

The Dying Fish Swims in Water

Struggles of the Finno-Ugric peoples mirror Russia’s own insecurities
January 6, 2006

Prerequisites of Renaissance

The true intellectual spirit of Islam awaits rebirth
Khwaja Masud
January 4, 2006

Entr’acte: On Screen, Globalization and a Deadly Discontent

French film presents a dark fantasy that hits close to home
Alan Riding
January 4, 2006