To the Point
Hollywood, Smart Power and Public Diplomacy
As they celebrate the Fourth of July, Americans don't see their country in the same way it's seen by the rest of the world. We talk about what's called "smart power" and the entertainment industry as an instrument of public diplomacy.
By Warren Olney • • 50m ListenAs they celebrate the Fourth of July, Americans don't see their country in the same way it's seen by the rest of the world. We talk about what's called "smart power" and the entertainment industry as an instrument of public diplomacy.
In this episode
3 storiesUnemployment at 26-Year High, Where's the Stimulus?
Yesterday, Vice President Joe Biden turned up in Iraq and the White House announced that he's in charge of the process of troop withdrawal and redeployment. He's already in charge of the stimulus plan, also called the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act . Michael Scherer of Time magazine calls it " the stampede for dollars ."
Read the story8 minHollywood, Smart Power and Public Diplomacy
Americans are about to celebrate the Fourth of July at a time when America's international reputation has been in decline. A country that sees itself as free, prosperous and generous is identified with the war in Iraq, Abu Ghraib and the defense of torture.
Read the story34 minFourth of July Fireworks Fizzle under Budget Constraints
In a year of massive recession, one of America's patriotic traditions is in big trouble. Fourth of July fireworks displays have been cut back and even cancelled all over the country. In Punta Gorda, Florida, Euclid, Ohio and Montebello, California, tomorrow's fireworks displays won't be what they used to be.
Read the story9 min
