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.

Iranian Cleric Blogs for Free Expression

Presidential adviser's internet journal offers a chance to connect with Iranian citizens and the world
Reuters
February 16, 2005

Asia-Pacific Travel Set for Strong Growth in 2005

Last year it grew 40 percent, thanks to intra-Asian travel and low-cost carriers
Ven Sreenivasan
February 16, 2005

Spies Are Us: Interest in Arabic Soars

American and European Arabists look for lucrative spy opportunities in the Middle East
Benjamin Sutherland
January 19, 2005

On Screen, Tackling Europe's New Reality

A film about Turkish immigrants finds unexpected success
Alan Riding
January 19, 2005

Counting Sheep?

The proselytizing zeal of American missionaries knows no slack even in tsunami relief
Seema Sirohi
January 28, 2005