Final answer:
Soft power is a form of influence in international relations based on attraction and persuasion, stemming from a nation's culture, political ideals, and policies, as opposed to hard power which relies on coercion.
Step-by-step explanation:
The theory of soft power was developed by Joseph S. Nye, Jr. and denotes a form of international influence that is not coercive but is based on attraction and persuasion. This concept contrasts with 'hard power', which involves using force or economic sanctions to achieve national objectives. Soft power resides in the ability of a country to shape the preferences of others through appeal and attraction, which can stem from the country's culture, political ideals, and policies.
Exemplifications of soft power in practice include diplomacy, where states engage in reciprocal relationships to come up with mutually beneficial agreements, thus asserting influence on the global stage. The United States often begins foreign policy relationships with soft power tactics, in line with liberal internationalism and idealism, before resorting to harder power measures. Engagements can be bilateral or multilateral, but the underpinning principle is reciprocity, recognizing each country as an equal player in international relations. Ultimately, soft power is about leveraging the nonmilitary tools a nation possesses, like cultural influence and economic incentives, to ensure international cooperation without the use or threat of force.