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.

Philippines Web Activists Show Power of Internet Campaigns

Transparency curtailed government spending
James Hookway, Joesphine Cuneta
August 26, 2013

How to Keep the NSA Out of Your Computer

Activists borrow an idea from the rural poor and build their own internet
Clive Thompson
August 21, 2013

How the Wealthy Keep Themselves on Top

Free-market system may no longer guarantee opportunity for all
Tim Harford
August 20, 2013

Rise of the Renting, Sharing Economy Could Have Ripple Effects

Global debt crisis ushered in joys of a simpler life
Matthew Boesler
August 16, 2013

Gay Laws and the Company Russia Keeps

Countries that fail to protect minority rights tend not to be strong
Tim Marshall
August 15, 2013