The Role of Cultural Tools in Expanding International Policies of the Great Powers since September 11 (Comparative Study: America and China)

The cultural diplomacy of America and China has increased in the importance after the events happened on September 11. Both countries have tried to use different cultural tools as the means of soft power, instead of hard power, to reinvigorate their influence and soft power among different countries of the world. Their goal by providing a popular and reasonable image is to apply the mentioned tools for modifying their reputation more than before among the weak, powerful and not satisfied countries of the world. The present study by using cultural imperialism theoretical framework seeks to examine cultural tools which are a part of the cultural policy of the states. The main question of the study is that what has been the role of cultural tools in expanding international policies of the great powers since September 11, 2001 insofar? The main hypothesis is that America beside China has had more success in promoting its international policies through cultural tools because of its executive plans over the decades after the World Wars. Moreover, the sub-hypothesis of the study is that according to China's recent economic progress and also considering the fact that the economy is cultural activities’ main motivator and supporter, in the near future we will witness the coordination between China and America in terms of using cultural tools. The methodology of the research is descriptive-analytical and the data were collected through library research. The results show that America has been the most successful global power by applying cultural policies and using cultural tools in expanding its soft power over several decades. However, on the other hand, China through precise and widespread plans over the past three decades has sought to gain America’s place in all areas.