States that participate in the international political process are increasingly acknowledging the use of soft power as the most crucial non-military instrument for carrying out the duties of foreign policy. A state can use a variety of tools to exercise soft power, including international economic initiatives, public diplomacy, scientific and educational advancements, mass cultural and sporting events, and communications (TV, radio, and internet). This article examines the main characteristics and concepts of soft power as an object of political science research. The evolution of the concept of "soft power" is analyzed, and the reasons and conditions for the origin of this concept are studied. The article analyzes the interpretation of this term by political scientist Joseph Nye and other scholars, as well as the opinions expressed by critics.

soft power, international relations, diplomacy, culture, public opinion, propaganda, ideology, international order, political influence, Jozef Nay.

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