Cognitive Science 0209 - Soft Power

Soft power refers to forms of international relations that are not militaristic or otherwise coercive - or "hard." The usual means of soft power are cultural ones. Nation-states increasingly brand themselves (the Danes are the happiest people on earth), foster exportable experience economies (EuroDisney), and produce globally circulating news (Voice of America). National regions, corporations, religions and NGOs all engage in similar behavior. The goal is a kind of impression management, creating favorable public opinion abroad toward a way of life, a product or a geographic place. These activities, which blur the private and public sectors, raise important questions about propaganda, cultural imperialism and other issues that are often difficult to untangle from strictly economic and geo-political matters. This course will critically explore US public diplomacy mainly, but also efforts by multilateral organizations like the UN and by international NGOs. China and India may be featured case studies. In addition to regularly assigned readings, there will be an essay and a final paper.

Mind, Brain, and Information Independent Work Writing and Research In this course, students are expected to spend at least six to eight hours a week of preparation and work outside of class time. This time includes reading, writing, research.