The Allure of Soft Power

“With the rapid growth in military technology and the devastating consequences that are associated with it, the other medium for conflict has switched to a more non-confrontational basis. As a result, in order to obtain favorable space and have a more ubiquitous influence, nations are deploying various means to gain approval through a more subtle method – soft power. In this commentary, BIPSS Research Intern Subham Barua explores the concept of soft power and examines its usage through brief case studies of the US and China. He explores the degree of effectiveness and how soft power can often turn to sharp power, given the circumstances”