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.

'Radical' A-Mei Cancels Show in China

The pop star joined the list of Taiwanese doing business in China to be punished for appearing to support Taiwan's independence
Chiu Yu-tzu
June 14, 2004

Private Schools Asked to Revise Textbooks

No violation of Islamic teachings or UAE policy permitted
Mohsen Rashid
June 15, 2004

Language Schools Fight Image War

Visa curbs seen hurting institutions, foreigners
May 5, 2004

Iraq Prisoner Abuse Draws Global Media Outrage

World decries abominable American treatment of Iraqi prisoners
May 5, 2004

China's Net watchdogs: the Good, the Bad and the Ugly

Anger boils over in China's chat rooms
Liyuan Lu
April 3, 2004