The Study of Soft Power: China’s Presence in African Region

Author

Jessica Huang, The Graduate Center, City University of New YorkFollow

Date of Degree

5-2018

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

M.A.

Program

Political Science

Advisor

Yan Sun

Subject Categories

International Relations

Keywords

The, Study, Soft, Power, China, Africa

Abstract

The Western media and policy analyses frequently give negate give portrayals of China’s presence in developing countries. This study, however, explores why China’s soft power succeeds in developing regions of the world. In particular, why is it that while China’s soft power is not quite universally accepted, it works in developing nations such as those in Africa? This paper makes the argument that the constructivist idea of identity is instrumental in understanding Chinese soft power within Africa. That is, the key components of China’s soft power reflect shared identities with the developing world and especially Africa nations, and as a result contributing to a better reception of China’s soft power in Africa.

Recommended Citation

Huang, Jessica, "The Study of Soft Power: China’s Presence in African Region" (2018). CUNY Academic Works.
https://academicworks.cuny.edu/gc_etds/2607