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.

North Koreans Eager to Cash in on Tourism

Old-school military ambitions are making way for lucrative capitalism
Joo Sang Min
December 7, 2004

If UN Fails, We All Do

To maintain international faith in the UN, its peacekeeping missions must become a shared endeavor
Fareed Zakaria
December 9, 2004

Globalization and Anti-Americanism

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

Hooters Comes to China

"Delightfully Tacky But Unrefined" chain comes to China
Hamish McDonald
October 23, 2004

For Its Own Reasons, Singapore Is Getting Rather Gay-Friendly

Tourist dollars are part of it, but there still are limits
Gordon Fairclough
October 26, 2004