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.

With Hunger Growing, North Korea Returns to Nuclear Talks

North Korea's move on nuclear talks boosts sole guarantor of the Kim dynasty – China
Shim Jae Hoon
March 7, 2012

Childless by Choice

More people decide against having children, presenting quandaries for governments and the elderly
Joseph Chamie and Barry Mirkin
March 2, 2012

India’s Dilemma: Faster Growth or Poverty Alleviation?

Worries about the next election lure politicians into short-term fixes that don’t end poverty
T.N. Ninan
February 22, 2012

Through the Eyes of Asia’s Tiger Cubs

The Asian Challenge 2020’s young essayists fervently believe that life can only get better
Mark L. Clifford
February 20, 2012

China: Hard Power at Home, Soft Power Abroad

From Confucius to cable TV, China mobilizes all resources to win hearts and minds
Frank Ching
February 8, 2012

Global Causes Attract Growing Share of US Giving

Despite recession, global giving is an emerging trend for US corporations and individuals
Susan Froetschel
January 10, 2012