Soft power

Soft power is a concept within contemporary political thinking and refers to power which comes from economic or cultural means. Also refered to as cooptive power, it allows nations to exert their influence without using military. An example of this would be the United States influencing the world through its economic and cultural power. For example, the globalization of American culture can be seen in the world-wide appreciation for Coca-Cola, Hollywood, and a Big Mac.

Soft power is contrasted with hard power which refers to power which comes from military sources or threats.