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.

Doctor Freed After Court Forbids Forced Marriage

Bangladesh judge, agreeing with a British request, frees a doctor from a marriage planned by parents
Ian Johnston
December 17, 2008

Many in Denial Over Rising Population

The globe may struggle to provide for a human population that triples over the course of a century
Mark O'Connor
January 2, 2009

Arts and Bards, Political Branch

Art can’t help but expose political flaws and follies
Jed Yoong
January 8, 2009

Atheist Bus Ad Campaign Provokes Bitterness in Barcelona

In a competitive world of ideas, the non-religious and the religious resort to marketing tools
Giles Tremlett
January 7, 2009

Turkish-German Integration Smooths Cultural Divisions

Diplomat says both countries are democratic, modern societies, well-prepared to help minorities feel at home
Peter Badenhop
January 30, 2004