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.

A Place Where Women Rule

All-female village in Kenya is a sign of burgeoning feminism across Africa
Emily Wax
July 9, 2005

Muslim Problem Needs a Muslim Solution

Thomas L. Friedman writes about the importance of the Islamic community in ridding the world of terrorism
Thomas L. Friedman
July 8, 2005

Giving Voice to British Arab Culture – And Its Discontents

A new magazine offers a unique insight into British Arab Culture
Omar Waraich
June 29, 2005

A Muslim Woman, a Story of Sex

North African author addresses "the last battle for democracy": female sexuality in the Muslim world
Alan Riding
June 22, 2005

American Character Gets Mixed Reviews

Sixteen-nation Pew Global Attitudes Survey reveals continued dissatisfaction with the US
June 23, 2005