Final answer:
The query pertains to the field of sociology within social studies, examining societal structures, cultural interactions, and the evolution of human societies through communicative and technological advancements.
Step-by-step explanation:
The passage discusses the emergence of a global culture, the historical connections between different regions, the impact of communication and trade on societal interactions, and how modern developments like the internet have transformed our world into a 'much smaller place.' This query reflects studies pertaining to sociology, as it delves into societal structures, cultural interactions, and the evolution of human social behavior over time. Sociologists investigate the establishment of an interconnected global community, observing trends in communication, cultural exchanges, and technological advancements that influence social dynamics.
In addition, the text touches upon concepts from history and anthropology, describing how empires have linked people from different countries in the past and how contemporary anthropologists examine the cosmopolitan aspects of cultures. The discussion about literature, including perspectives from New Historicism and cultural materialism, demonstrates the interdisciplinary nature of these studies, which often occupy the intersection of sociology, history, and literature due to their shared focus on cultural and social narratives.