Author: Mulcahy, Kevin V.

Publication Year: 1981

Media Type: Book

Summary:

This chapter will examine the nature of cultural diplomacy in general and the origins of American cultural exchanges specifically. This will be followed by an analysis of the various administrative agencies that have been involved in this cultural sphere: the Bureau of Educational and the Cultural Affairs, the Information Agency, the International Communications Agency. Some assessment will be offered about the efficacy of the cultural exchanges in diplomacy. The concluding section will offer some recommendations about the administration of cultural exchanges.

Abstract:

This chapter will examine the nature of cultural diplomacy in general and the origins of American cultural exchanges specifically. This will be followed by an analysis of the various administrative agencies that have been involved in this cultural sphere: the Bureau of Educational and the Cultural Affairs, the Information Agency, the International Communications Agency. Some assessment will be offered about the efficacy of the cultural exchanges in diplomacy. The concluding section will offer some recommendations about the administration of cultural exchanges. (p. 270)

On a different note, [the author's] chapter on cultural diplomacy examines a little known aspect of American foreign policy - its programs of cultural exchange. This discussion cuts across issues as he raises the implications of culture for export. What kind of culture is exported? he asks. Is it representative of the American scene and is it what we want others to see? Is it indicative of the American way of life? To whom are culture exchanges presented? Is an exchange different from propaganda? Mulcahy wraps his chapter around a basic policy question: What foundation is there for cultural diplomacy-propaganda or understanding? (General introduction, p. 6)

CONTENTS
Culture and foreign policy.
American cultural exchanges.
The administration of cultural exchanges.
Cultural exchanges and cultural diplomacy.
The future of cultural diplomacy: some recommendations.

Arts & Intersections:

Categories: International