What, according to Joseph Nye, are the major sources of a country's soft power? Discuss its relevance in the contemporary world politics. (UPSC CSE Mains 2018 - Political Science and International Relations, Paper 2)
- The term Soft Power was first used by the eminent IR scholar Joseph Nye in his book "Bound to Lead: The Changing Nature of American Power.” In the book, he identified three dimensions of power; coercion by military force, influence by offering economic incentives and finally the ability to co-opt other states by the nation’s appeal based on its culture and values. The argument is that other states modify their preferences because of their favorable perception of you.
- Normally military power is considered hard and hence looked down upon in the context of Soft Power. However, when it is used for Peacekeeping or disaster relief, it is a humanitarian and welcome activity. Similarly, projection of one’s culture is considered good; however, aggressive projection of a big and historical nation’s culture in smaller countries, particularly in the neighborhood, can be interpreted as cultural imperialism. Hence, the important thing is how one uses the instruments. Soft Power ultimately becomes a process and not a product.
- Nye argues that successful states need both hard and soft power, the ability to coerce others as well as the ability to shape their long-term attitudes and preferences.
Soft Power for India
In addition to economic and military power, the idea of Soft Power has gained traction during the past few decades. Indian arts, culture, yoga and spiritualism, culinary varieties, festivals, music and dance forms etc, have attracted people from all around the world for centuries.
- For creating Goodwill:Indian ethos and practices has helped it build a benevolent image and tremendous goodwill globally, but it has to be backed with quality project delivery.
- As a Strategic Investment:To become a leading strategic investor in commercially viable and financially attractive public-private partnership infrastructure projects, India needs to deliver on its promises.
- Post-Pandemic Changes:With increased scope of cooperation and the realisation that global problems require global efforts, India’s role has gained prominence as the pharmacy of the World.
- Trade and Investment Flow:To build an image of a trusted and reliable partner, India needs to make other countries believe in its commitment to deliver. This will lead to rising trade and investment flows to growing Indian markets.
- Agreements and Communication:The projection of Soft power can help India establish agreement and communication between states through peaceful methods. It also helps build a brand for itself by promoting its Non-aligned commitments, Democratic values, morals, ethos, etc.
- In order to Reach Globally:There is no denying the fact that India can use these instruments of soft power to reach out to the global audience—in turn, making an all-embracing impact on the worldwide market.
- India’s ancient wisdom and spirituality needed to be utilised to capitalise on India’s leadership role in the world.
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