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.

Lack of Arabic Speakers is a Crack in US Security

In the war on terror, US forces rush to close the language gap
Daniel Sneider
October 5, 2004

Al Azhar to Offer Courses in Thailand

University hopes to provide reliable Islamic education to young Thai Muslims
Don Pathan
September 23, 2004

Disney Is Tailoring New Park to Fit Hong Kong Sensitivities

Across the Pacific, Disney launches the Hong Kong version of an American brand
Keith Bradsher
October 13, 2004

Afghan Archaeology on Road to Recovery

International teams help troubled nation restore cultural heritage after decades of strife
John W. Betlyon
October 12, 2004

Purity of Chinese Language Debated

Officials insist that Chinese must maintain integrity to become the next major world language
September 13, 2004