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Introduction
The concept of "soft power" has begun to appear in publications discussing
Japanese perspectives on foreign affairs. The summer 2004 issue of Gaiko Forum, for
example, carried an article by Joseph Nye, entitled "The Soft Power of Japan." It briefly
introduces the concept of soft power and urges Japan on to embrace it in its international
policy by overcoming some challenges that stand in the way.
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The issue also carried an
article by Tamotsu Aoki, a well-known student of Japanese culture. He argues that
Japanese culture has gained a certain level of appeal around the world but that Japan must
adopt a multilayered strategy to strengthen its culture further to compete successfully in
the increasingly multicultural world.
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In this brief analysis we will look at the ongoing Japanese discussion on soft
power and consider its implications for the U.S.-Japan alliance. We will first discuss the
concept, as developed by Joseph Nye, its potential and limitations as an instrument of
national policy. We will then examine how the Japanese are using the concept in
discussing their nation's security policy. In the process we will identify some indicators
of Japan's soft power. We will then explore the implications of Japan's interest in
expanding its soft power for its security alliance with the United States.
Soft Power: Its Potential and Limitations
Nye defines "soft power" as the ability to get "others to want the outcome that you
want" and "it rests on the ability to shape the preferences of others."
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It is "attractive
power," the power to induce others to do what you want them to do without forcing them
to do so.
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According to Nye, international politics is an arena in which nations engage in
Convention