THINK GLOBAL: Roger Cohen commentary

The New York Times' international writer-at-large Roger Cohen argues that globalization has brought America closer to the world, but not everyone likes the proximity. "America, with its movie stars and Starbucks, lures but also repels," he says. "It sees itself spreading its gifts, inspiring a global tide of liberty, but others often see it as a trampler of tradition, mouther of half-truths, poor listener, robber baron dressed in a deceptive garb of noble intentions." The best way out, he argues, "may be a dose of humility." Roger Cohen was Foreign Editor of The New York Times through the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, attacks. His prize-winning war coverage in Bosnia formed the basis of his acclaimed book, "Hearts Grown Brutal: Sagas of Sarajevo." His new is book “Soldiers and Slaves: American POWs Trapped by the Nazis’ Final Gamble.” Cohen's column "Globalist" appears twice a week in the International Herald Tribune.