Cover Joseph Nye is a global diplomacy theorist and political scientist, best known for coining ‘soft power’ (Photo: Alex Wong/Getty Images)
Joseph Nye is a global diplomacy theorist and political scientist, best known for coining ‘soft power’ (Photo: Alex Wong/Getty Images)
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Joseph Nye, the Harvard political scientist who coined ‘soft power’ and reshaped global diplomacy, has died at age 88
Joseph S. Nye Jr., the influential political scientist who introduced the world to the concept of “soft power,” has died at the age of 88. He passed away on May 6, 2025, in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Harvard University announced the news, which was confirmed by his family, though no cause of death was disclosed.
Nye was best known for redefining how the world understands power—not just as military or economic might, but as the ability to attract, persuade, and lead through values, culture, and diplomacy. His concept of soft power, first introduced in the late 1980s, argued that a country could influence others not through coercion or payment, but by making itself appealing—through its popular culture, political ideals, and foreign policies. It was a powerful reframing of global influence in a world increasingly shaped by media, public opinion, and international cooperation.
“It’s not just whose army wins,” Nye once said, “it’s whose story wins.” That simple line captured the essence of a soft power strategy: nations that are admired for their values, institutions, and culture are more likely to attract partners, shape global norms, and wield influence without resorting to force.
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His academic contributions include 14 books and hundreds of essays, many of which became required reading in universities and diplomatic circles alike. Among his most celebrated works are Power and Interdependence (1977, with Robert Keohane), Soft Power: The Means to Success in World Politics (2004), and The Future of Power (2011). He also popularised the term “smart power”—a balanced approach that combines hard military strength with the appeal of soft influence. Both concepts reshaped how governments think about foreign policy in an era where media, reputation, and global alliances matter more than ever.
Beyond academia, Nye brought theory into practice with key roles in U.S. government. Under President Jimmy Carter, he served as deputy under the secretary of state for security assistance, science and technology. During the Clinton administration, he chaired the National Intelligence Council from 1993–94 and was assistant secretary of defense for international security affairs from 1994–95.
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His policy insights were sought by presidents, prime ministers, and international organisations. A founding member of the Aspen Strategy Group and a longtime member of the Trilateral Commission, Nye moved fluidly between scholarship and diplomacy, always advocating for a more cooperative, multilateral world order.
Nye’s influence on international relations is immeasurable. From foreign ministries to university classrooms, his ideas continue to guide how power, diplomacy, and leadership are understood and applied. As the world navigates an era of renewed geopolitical tension, Joseph Nye’s belief in the persuasive power of attraction over coercion remains more relevant than ever.
Kristine Fonacier is a widely published journalist and author, covering lifestyle, business, politics and travel. She was the editor in chief at the Philippine editions of Esquire and Entrepreneur, and the founding editor of Grid magazine. At Tatler, she was previously the regional editor for T-Labs, Power & Purpose and Asia’s Most Influential.
