The book “Chinese Soft Power” by Maria Repnikova provides insightful research on the use of soft power in China and its impact on international relations. As a student in the Media and Politics minor program, I found the presentation by Repnikova to be highly relevant and informative.

 

One of the key takeaways from Repnikova’s research is the fluidity and expansiveness of Chinese soft power. This is important in understanding the impact of media on global politics, as media plays a significant role in shaping public opinion and perception. China’s deliberate use of soft power in promoting its culture and values, particularly in Africa, is a clear example of how media can be used to influence public opinion and perception in a particular region or country.

 

Another significant aspect of Repnikova’s research is the use of soft power in China-Africa relations. China’s increasing investment in Africa has been accompanied by a deliberate use of soft power to promote Chinese culture and values. This is important to understand as it highlights the strategic use of media to shape public opinion and perception in specific regions or countries.

 

Repnikova’s presentation also highlighted the gaps in our understanding of Chinese soft power. Contrary to popular belief, Chinese soft power is not solely based on its Confucian values or communist ideological appeal. Rather, it is more focused on tangible and transformative benefits such as language learning, education, and job opportunities. This form of influence and power is far more appealing to people, especially those who are struggling to meet their basic needs. China’s approach of offering practical and experiential benefits as opposed to political fluff is a significant aspect of its soft power strategy.

 

Repnikova’s research also highlighted how China’s use of soft power is not just aimed at the international audience but also targets their own domestic Chinese population. This form of influence and power affirms the Chinese people’s position in the world as powerful leaders on the rise and props up the Chinese Communist Party as a government worth rooting for.

 

The research presented by Maria Repnikova on Chinese soft power is highly relevant to the Media and Politics minor program. The research highlights the strategic use of media to shape public opinion and perception, particularly in the context of global politics. It also provides valuable insights into the gaps in our understanding of soft power and the impact of soft power on China-Africa relations. Understanding the complexities of soft power is crucial in analyzing the impact of media on global politics, and the presentation by Repnikova provides a valuable contribution to this field.

 

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