In politics (and particularly in international politics), soft power is the ability to co-opt rather than coerce (contrast hard power). In other words, soft power involves shaping the preferences of others through appeal and attraction. A defining feature of soft power is that it is non-coercive; the currency of soft power includes culture, political values, and foreign policies. In 2012, Joseph Nye of Harvard University explained that with soft power, "the best propaganda is not propaganda", further explaining that during the Information Age, "credibility is the scarcest resource".
Soft power
Having the ability to influence the behaviour or thinking of others through the power of attraction and ideas is also vital to our foreign policy. This is known as soft power.
Among these are our democracy, multicultural society, strong economy, attractive lifestyle and world-class institutions. At the same time, globalisation and technological advances, particularly the reach of the internet and social media, continue to change the way influence is exercised.
Digital communication also allows non-government actors and nation states alike to influence public attitudes at a pace and scale not witnessed before, for good and ill.
Our widely envied lifestyle reflects the high standard of living we have forged and the excellence of our cities and government services, as well as world-leading levels of environmental protection. We have strengths in innovation and the creative industries. Our attractiveness as a tourism destination brings substantial economic benefits and builds influence by encouraging visitors to our shores and showcasing our natural beauty, world-class produce, dynamic economy and the openness of our society.
The Government is committed to marketing our commercial, educational and cultural credentials. We will develop a stronger nation brand that reinforces our reputation as an internationally competitive investment destination, a great place to visit, a quality provider of education and a trusted exporter of premium quality goods and services. This will complement our broader trade and investment policies and add impetus to our major economic partnerships.
Our commitment to solving regional and global challenges underpins our standing as an influential and successful nation. Our development partnerships also expand our points of engagement and international influence.
Replies
We should actually open up a agreement that could allow a cultural exchange between our nations. You know, so we can both spread our cultures and mindsets
You know I was thinking about talking on something just like this but I am glad you got the idea first! I really do believe that soft power holds more power than rough and tumble politics. If you make yourself well-liked and respected the possibilities are limitless but if you are harsh and threatening to those around you, you will find yourself with no friends and angry enemies.
perhaps nominations for a country to host a World Fair or Expo, where participating countries can exhibit their cultural or scientific achievements or start an Orbis UNESCO World Heritage Site List where Orbis nations can submit sites for listing and nomination