The Penn State Colloquy on Asia in the Era of Globalization (CAEG) and the University Libraries are co-sponsoring an exhibit entitled Asia in the Era of Globalization.

The exhibit opened Aug. 30 and will be shown until Oct. 29 in the Candace and Patrick E. Malloy III Diversity Studies Room, 109 Pattee Library.

Asia in the Era of Globalization focuses on the growing role of Asian nations and cultures in the global community. Pieces on display range from books to traditional Asian clothing and highlight the social, political, religious, economic and cultural aspects of Asia.

Organizers hope the exhibit will allow students to gain a deeper understanding of how increased technology and communications in today's world are redefining cultural and international boundaries.

"We kind of want to highlight what the library has to offer in regard to Asia in the era of globalization," event co-organizer and Asian Studies librarian Jade Atwill said. "There are two main reasons for the exhibit. First, we want to promote awareness of Asia in the era of globalization and also bring together faculty and students from different departments to study Asia in the framework of globalization."

Theatre arts professor Richard Nichols, who donated some of the items displayed, said he feels there are many real benefits for students in the study of other cultures. The exhibit can be a solid first step in awareness and appreciation of all Asian and Middle Eastern cultures, he said.

"There are three or four levels on which students can really take something away from the exhibit," Nichols said. "First, the pictures on the wall are pretty striking. Anyone who has any cultural sensitivity at all will certainly appreciate the Asian culture displayed there."

Nichols added that the depth and beauty of Asian theater is also evident in the photographs and he hopes the visual displays will encourage students to take a look at the wide variety of books available, many written by Penn State faculty.

History and religious studies professor Jonathan Brockopp's Islamic Ethics of Life: Abortion, War and Euthanasia is on display and he said the exhibit is an opportunity for students to reference materials that may clear common misconceptions.

"I've always been interested in the value of human life in Asian religions," Brockopp said. "Every religion deals with these issues but there's not a lot of material directed towards America in regard to these issues, particularly Islamic Jihad and rules of war."

While the visual aspects of the exhibit may initially catch one's eye, all involved feel the real value lies in students and faculty alike studying and learning to truly embrace other cultures.

"I think we Americans have an enormous responsibility to learn more about other nations," Brockopp said. "Countries like China and India are rising nations culturally and industrially and are really the countries of the future."

Nichols agreed that the study of Asian cultures, particularly those in the Middle East, is critical to one's social development.

"It's information that students are certainly going to need in the future if they want to operate successfully on any level in a global society," Nichols said.