China likely to wield more soft power in coming decades

THE importance of soft power has been known for centuries, but the term was coined by Joseph Nye only in the late 1980s. Countries have used both soft and hard power for centuries.

Soft power is the ability of a country to shape other countries' views, attitudes, perceptions and actions without force or coercion. The soft power of a country is dependent on many factors, including its performance, global image and international reputation. Exercising soft power, a state can attract supporters and partners towards its policies, views and actions.

It is often believed - erroneously - that China is a relative latecomer to soft power. China has exercised soft power in different ways than the West. Its methods have thus been often missed by Western experts, but China has historically influenced large parts of Asia through culture, knowledge and trade.