Dean Ernest J. Wilson III writes about the newest public diplomacy actor, Silicon Valley

The newest paper in the CPD Perspectives on Public Diplomacy series written by the Dean of the Annenberg School for Communication & Journalism, Ernest J. Wilson III, studies the newest actor in the public diplomacy realm, Silicon Valley, as it becomes a significant player in U.S. foreign policy. In his paper "Silicon Valley's Foreign Policy," Wilson reminds scholars and practitioners of the importance of economic and digital diplomacy.

This ninth paper of 2012 outlines a number of areas vital for crafting smart U.S. foreign policy strategies in the 21st century: learn from the success and innovation of Silicon Valley, collaborate across sectors to create institutional reform in areas of government that have not yet adapted to our fast-paced era and promote the use of smart power and economic diplomacy to strengthen U.S. foreign policy and national interests. Wilson writes, "Economic efficiency and innovation are essential elements of 21st century power that will only continue to grow in importance."

This paper illustrates how out-of-the-box thinking can strengthen U.S. smart power and public diplomacy through sectors not traditionally associated with diplomacy. A unique addition to the CPD Perspectives series, the paper can be read in its entirety here.

For additional thoughts and provocative questions regarding this topic, you can view Dean Wilson's PowerPoint Presentation here.

CPD Perspectives is a periodic publication from the USC Center on Public Diplomacy, and highlights scholarship intended to stimulate critical thinking about the study and practice of public diplomacy.

To view other papers in the series, click here.