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 Turning Point for China

With key reforms, a fast-growing China could wield even greater global influence
Jean-Pierre Lehmann
October 1, 2012

Behind the Iron Curtain

Political prisoners surviving brutal North Korean system reach critical mass
David Hawk
September 28, 2012

India’s Treacherous Northeast

India battles separatist movements, ethnic conflict and foreigners jockeying for influence
Bertil Lintner
September 26, 2012

One Country, Many Voices

China’s orchestrated spectacles, from Olympics to anti-Japan protests, give illusion of unified worldview
Jeffrey Wasserstrom
September 24, 2012

Singh Doubles Down on Reform

A slowing economy gave India’s government the cover to push FDI in the retail industry
Ashok Malik
September 21, 2012

Middle East Protests: A Salafist Trap

Extremists seek excuses to destabilize governments, upend success of moderate Islamists
Fawaz A. Gerges
September 19, 2012