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.

Double Vision in Beirut

While the West celebrates the rise of democracy, the Lebanese press for independence
Frances Z. Brown
May 12, 2005

Nationalism Pits Shanghai Against its Global Ambition

Anti-Japanese demonstrations expose conflicting interests and force the city to choose
James Farrer
April 29, 2005

The Atlantic Divide over Fighting Terrorism

Spain's commemoration of the so-called "M-11" terrorist bombings underlines stark differences with the post-9/11 US reaction
Jonathan Schell
March 16, 2005

Internet Fans Flames of Chinese Nationalism

Beijing faces dilemma as anti-Japanese campaign in cyberspace hits the streets
Paul Mooney
April 4, 2005

Prisoner's Release Does Not Herald a Xinjiang Spring

Chinese focus on Uyghur ethnic aspirations, rather than Islam, could stabilize the troubled region
Dru C. Gladney
March 30, 2005

Asia Battles over War History

The bitter legacy of the past looms over Tokyo's plans for the future
David McNeill
April 11, 2005

Donald Trump and the Coming Test of International Order

International order rests on alliances, an open global economy, and liberal institutions
Uri Friedman
November 21, 2016

The Age of Pain

Social distress contributes to populism and governments must address systemic causes
William Davies
November 15, 2016

British Icons Cash in on China's Day of Sales Madness

“Singles Day” transforms the economic and cultural calculus of online spending
November 14, 2016

The World Is Watching America's Election

Voters line up at the polls, and US leaders could show that democracy still works
Frida Ghitis
November 8, 2016

In the Art World, Globalism’s New Spin

The Museum of Modern Art and others expand global consciousness through art
Holland Cotter
November 7, 2016