Socialization is a recurring idea oin the book. Part of Starbucks' huge success can be attributed to its ability to provide socialization during a time when the people of the world are being more fragmented and less inclined to interact. The advent of the Internet at the same time as Starbucks is growing lets people reach around the world electronically yet limits personal interactions as people stay home and sit at their computers. Starbucks provides a safe place for people to gather in many communities and has become an icon for a relaxed, yet sophisticated place to meet for business or social purposes.