Vol. 9, Issue 2, Part E (2023)

Nye introduced the concept of soft power in his book Soft Power in 1990. The literature on soft power has grown significantly over the past decade. A particularly insightful treatment, both supportive and critical, has limited historical application and is far from rigorously enforced (primarily limited to analysis of contemporary foreign policy). In essence, the treatment of soft power does little beyond what its critics call "soft theory." Also, not enough attention has been paid to how changes in world politics affect the importance of soft and hard power. Finally, little is said about the decision-making conditions necessary for leaders to appreciate and effectively use soft power. This article will explore how soft power works and attempts to provide contributions that address all three of these deficiencies: elucidating a more rigorous and systematic understanding of the soft power process, explaining how changes in world politics have increased the value of soft power relative to hard power, and finally making several recommendations to encourage decision-making and effectively employ soft power strategies in foreign policy.