Arts in Cultural Diplomacy

Arts in Cultural Diplomacy is proposed as a regular session. Researchers are increasingly examining how music and other arts are used in cultural diplomacy initiatives. In such contexts, the arts function as a form of "soft power" that deflects attention to universally appreciated aspects of a local or national culture even under circumstances that are complicated for international or bilateral relations. Cultural diplomacy through arts thereby serves as a bridge that enables reduction of hostilities through affirmation of mutual appreciation and shared humanity. Sociological theory is only beginning to develop adequate explanations of the mechanisms of arts in cultural diplomacy, particularly when it comes to diplomacy of non-western nations toward the west in a postcolonial era. New studies in this field may seek to provide robust quantitative or qualitative descriptions as well as refinement of theoretical models to enhance explanation of phenomena and processes associated with arts diplomacy.