Peace Through Threads?

     Yes, it has happened. Digital communication has far eclipse other forms of communication that even our State Department's diplomacy efforts have been reduced down to mere threads. Not only that, but they go right out and identify themselves on websites in countries that are suspicious of our every move. According to Nikos Christodoulides of the University of North Carolina:

    "The Internet can be considered by governments as a unique diplomatic instrument; through its proper use they can “advertise” not only their positions on different issues, but also promote their ideas worldwide. Such a function, if used in the right way, helps the embassy, and as a result the country that it represents, to create a positive image in the host country." (UNC Source)

     Ultimately, the question arises whether this was the "right" way. Based on the statistics from  Rachel's presentation, the image of the national had a negative disapproval rate of 68% after the Digital Outreach Team's efforts following President Obama's Cairo speech, which was done in order to reach out to the Arab world. Both failed. While the Outreach Team surmised that the conversation would steer toward Afghanistan, Pakistan, or Islamic groups, the natives of other countries instead fumed over U.S. imperialism in addition to the United States' support of Israel. 

     Does this mean that the efforts of the group were not effective? I would have to think so based off their inability to sway the rigid stances the Arab world to the U.S. How then can we possibly reach out? The sentiment toward our government is so negative that pigs will fly before they change their minds by talking with people with the State Department logo under their name. I am that sure that I used a cliche caricature to illustrate my view. For now, on a digital level, the Digital Outreach Team should a more covert tactic and reach out anonymously while providing truthful information. The kicker though is that they have to bridge gaps and appear to other readers that it is an Arab guy with a mild objection, not a government suit. 

    
     I believe that our actions have to change in order for there to be a shift in attitude. Personally, if I were a resident of the countries we attacked, I too would think that the U.S. is coming over to their country to change their culture and government, based on their ensuing actions. And now we are trying to mend the wound by building schools and nice little groceries stores. We should shift to more of a trade-only policy and stop going to war with them, or else they will naturally be hostile toward us whether you are willing to accept this statement or not. If someone, say China, attacked U.S. soil and attempted to replace forks with chopsticks, I am sure that there would be a strong and stubborn rebellion by us. International relations are akin to relationships where if someone hurt the other, there will be a time period before things return to normal. There is no quick fix for international relationships that we are accustomed to. Instead of bringing chocolate right away, leave them alone for a little bit, and then try your corny confectionery tactic.