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.

Subcontinent Raises Its Voice

With the largest English-speaking population, India is set to become a linguistic superpower
David Crystal
November 30, 2004

The NU Convention and Nonconventional Islam

Landmark meeting will determine the future of progressive Islam in Indonesia
Rizqon Khamami
November 24, 2004

The Dotboomers

Indian models are no longer rare on foreign fashion runways. Their gift: a look that's exotic but not easy to pin down to a geography
Shobita Dhar
October 29, 2004

The Fear That Chokes the Arab World

Self-censorship in the media may contribute to the downfall of Arab civilization
Youssef M. Ibrahim
October 30, 2004

Globalization and Anti-Americanism

The US should not be blamed for cultural changes
Joseph S. Nye
October 21, 2004