How Soft Power Works (original) (raw)

This paper analyzes the concept of soft power as an integral aspect of national power, specifically in the context of Chinese political discourse. It critiques common misunderstandings of soft power, arguing that the confusion stems from equating power itself with power resources, termed the 'vehicle fallacy.' By exploring the multifaceted nature of soft power and its dependence on the context in which it is applied, the work advocates for a clearer conceptual framework that distinguishes between resources and the exercise of power. Ultimately, it sheds light on the dynamics of how soft power operates within international relations.