In today’s modern political arena, nations use various tactics and methods to exert their influence and foster collaboration with neighbouring countries. Two of the main tactics used are hard power and soft power and each come with their own advantages and disadvantages.
The most effective strategies incorporate both – a concept known as smart power. Understanding how these approaches are used reveals the evolving landscape of international relations and how soft power is becoming more prominent in shaping modern society.
Hard power has been the dominant form of influence throughout most of our history. Limited communications, weak global relations and high territorial competition had meant nations and societies relied on their military force or economic strength to exert power and control.
The Roman Empire for example, expanded their territories and influence through military campaigns and conquests while the Egyptians controlled resources such as water and land to gain leverage. In modern times, economic sanctions are often used as a means to pressure nations into confirming with international standards.
Hard power can bring about immediate results. It is very useful in sending warnings to other nations during high-stake scenarios or gaining stability in critical regions. The overuse of hard power can however lead to resentment and long-term damage to diplomatic relations. There is also a high cost to maintain a strong military force or persistent economic sanctions.
Soft power has become increasing more important in modern times as global connectivity and international relations have developed, leading to decline in hard power tactics as the desire for cooperation has increased. The term was invented in the late 20th century by Joseph Nye, a political scientist, and operates through cultural appeal and diplomatic relations.
Digital communications and the media have empowered nations to showcase their culture and values more effectively, such as the use of Hollywood films to portray the USA’s ideals of democracy and freedom to the world. China’s Belt and Road Initiative has helped to promote China’s culture and its diplomatic ties with participating countries. By providing infrastructure support to African nations for example, China has been able to improve its influence and sharing of culture with Africa through the opening of Chinese language schools.
Soft power fosters longer-lasting relationships which are forged through trust and mutual benefit. Today, our interconnectedness and ease of communications can prove to be much more effective than military or economic pressure and is often a cheaper option to maintain. It does however depend on a country’s authenticity and ability to garner trust through its actions and values. The complexity of global cultures also makes it difficult to ensure positive intentions do not lead to misunderstandings.
Modern politics often employs a mixture of both hard and soft powers, known as smart power. Here, the benefits of both approaches can be used to help strengthen a nation’s position globally. The European Union, for example, uses sanctions to penalise nations who breach agreements or carry out violations but also use educational exchanges such as ERASMUS to cultivate shared learning and knowledge.