Knowledge Diplomacy - (Key Studies in Diplomacy) by J Simon Rofe (Hardcover)

About the Book

Book Synopsis

Knowledge Diplomacy examines particular and cultural antecedents to the development of the field; and its predominance in western thinking and critiques. Crucially, it does so not just from the perspective of scholars but also by consciously drawing on the perspectives of practitioners.

The development of Knowledge Diplomacy allows for increased understanding of the role of research, innovation and higher education institutions as actors in international relations; shaping knowledge as they do.

As such Knowledge Diplomacy presents a meaningful means of understanding how understanding knowledge impacts scholars, students and decisions makers as those who use knowledge in their practice.

From the Back Cover

Through knowledge diplomacy we can achieve so much, and the authors infect the readers with their confidence and commitment. This book has truly inspired me!
Mary Stiasny, Pro Vice Chancellor Emerita, University of London

This book reminds us that universities and research communities are key actors in addressing global challenges. A must-read for those committed to education's role in international cooperation.
Martha Flor Puebla Mora, University of Guadalajara

In our current times of geopolitical turmoil, knowledge diplomacy is increasingly important. This volume provides an essential resource for those engaging with the theory of knowledge diplomacy and those putting it into action in the world. The rich debate in these pages over the concept of knowledge diplomacy and the keen insights into application will support the work of researchers working to further the academic field. Practitioners attempting to hone knowledge diplomacy into a global force for mutual understanding, productive negotiation, and collaborative change-making will also find this book invaluable.
Professor Jane Norman, President and Vice Chancellor, University of Nottingham

Knowledge Diplomacy addresses the development of the field of study and practice of knowledge diplomacy. It captures the emerging field of Knowledge Diplomacy at a key juncture due to its resonance in addressing contemporary a range geopolitical crises. It provides a foundational study exploring theory and practice; and regional perspectives, before offering thoughts for the future of knowledge diplomacy discourse.

The volume establishes its theoretical foundations including a blend of practitioner and scholar perspectives with chapters addressing the experiences of the University of London by Alijeva & Rofe; the relationship with International Relations theory from Alex Lake; then knowledge diplomacy and power in Cogan and Scott's work. Jane Knight's contributes an exploration of the relationship with other forms of diplomacy and soft power, while El Masry explores knowledge diplomacy's role in foreign policy.

The second principle section of the book explores contending perspectives of knowledge diplomacy reflecting not only different geographic locations but also differing practitioner and scholarly outlooks. Lüdert offers the view from the German Center for Research and Innovation, before Varpahovskis looks at the South Korean case, and Corcoran how Western perspectives run through knowledge diplomacy in Asia; Pradhan examines the application in Singalila; and Loera-Gonzalez in Mexican diplomacy.

The book draws to a close with reflections on the value of knowledge diplomacy at this juncture in global affairs and outlines for a future research agenda to add to, and potentially contest, the concepts and perspectives this book presents.

Review Quotes

This collection of reading explores the practice as well as the aspirations of knowledge diplomacy. In a world where globalisation has been accompanied by increasingly fractured and anxious international relationships at governmental levels the authors discuss with positive optimism and heartwarming confidence the wide range of contributions being made by universities and academics through their scholarship, research, innovation and exchange activities to the strengthening of international links and building relationships across borders. Through knowledge diplomacy we can achieve so much, and the authors infect the readers with their confidence and commitment. This book has truly inspired me!
Mary Stiasny, Pro Vice Chancellor Emerita, University of London

A timely and inspiring exploration of how knowledge acts as a bridge across nations and disciplines. By weaving together theory, critical perspectives and regional case studies - from Europe and Asia to Latin America - this book reminds us that universities and research communities are key actors in addressing global challenges. A must-read for those committed to education's role in international cooperation.
Martha Flor Puebla Mora, University of Guadalajara

In our current times of geopolitical turmoil, knowledge diplomacy is increasingly important. This volume provides an essential resource for those engaging with the theory of knowledge diplomacy and those putting it into action in the world. The rich debate in these pages over the concept of knowledge diplomacy and the keen insights into application will support the work of researchers working to further the academic field. Practitioners attempting to hone knowledge diplomacy into a global force for mutual understanding, productive negotiation, and collaborative change-making will also find this book invaluable.
Professor Jane Norman, President and Vice Chancellor, University of Nottingham

About the Author

Lilija Alijeva, University of London Institute in Paris

Linda Amrane-Cooper, Centre for Online and Distance Education, University of London

Tim Gore, University of London Institute in Paris

Alexander Lake, University of London Institute in Paris

Stuart MacDonald, ICR Research

J Simon Rofe, University of Leeds & Centre for Online and Distance Education, University of London