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Public diplomacy is one of the most poorly understood instruments of foreign policy. In exploring the theory and practice of this key aspect of a nation's soft power, this course aims to fill that gap by examining how state and non-state actors seek to establish dialogue with foreign audiences, as well as to inform them and favorably influence their views and policies. Governments and non-government institutions now have a wide range of traditional and non-traditional diplomatic tools at their disposal, including modern technological and commercial techniques, social media, cultural and educational exchanges, and international broadcasting. Particular attention will be paid to "nation-branding" and the use of pop culture as main features of the new public diplomacy. The course is a mix of lecture/discussions, active student participation, guest speakers, and a class visit to a local cultural center. Case studies will focus on the public-diplomacy successes and challenges of the United States, Japan, South Korea, China, and Germany.