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.

Hollywood Still Seduces the World

Global anti-Americanism aside, US films sell more tickets abroad than at home
Ioannis Gatsiounis
January 28, 2008

“Silent Night” in China

China – home to factories that make world’s Christmas decorations – embraces the holiday
Peter Kwong
December 20, 2007

The Roots of Anti-Americanism in Germany

European disapproval of the US extends beyond the war itself
Dominic Sachsenmaier
April 30, 2003

Cosmopolitan Masala: Diversity Enriches Us All

As immigrants innovate, business booms – an economist rejects criticism of cultural diversity
Philippe Legrain
November 16, 2007

Globalization's Challenge to Islam

How to create one Islamic community in a diverse world
Riaz Hassan
April 17, 2003

Disowned by Mentor, Bin Laden Seeks New Pastures

As bin Laden seeks recruits from the marginalized in the West, a Saudi cleric blames him for Muslim suffering
Fawaz A. Gerges
September 19, 2007