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.

Hola! Asian Call Centers Lure Back Spanish

Filipinos no longer scorn a colonial language that boosts pay and job prospects
Margot Cohen
April 16, 2010

Nations Say “I Do” to Marriage Equality

Homosexuals reject policies that leave their status in economic and legal limbo
Joseph Chamie, Barry Mirkin
April 14, 2010

Anti-Immigration Backlash Roils Ties between Australia and India – Part I

Violence against Indian students, prompting review, could improve India-Australian ties
Robin Jeffrey
March 5, 2010

The French Burqa Ban: Culture Clash Unveiled

The burqa is a political garment
Sadanand Dhume
February 8, 2010

Confucius vs. Avatar: And the Winner is…

While the film on the philosopher flops, China restores Avatar to theaters
Mary Kay Magistad
January 25, 2010

Beyond Minarets: Europe’s Growing Problem with Islam

Can one be both European and Muslim?
Shada Islam
January 14, 2010