Re-imagining Security (Birthday Counterpoints) Book

'Soft security' is a modern term - but what does it mean? Cultural interaction is a key to secure coexistence - the building of transnational institutions and processes at institutional and personal levels; learning how to speak to each other effectively across the most dangerous chasms of incomprehension. But cultural relations don't just underwrite and promote global security by blunting conflict; they are also a barometer. The effect of security measures - surveillance, martial law, counter-terrorism, military action - is readable in the state of intercultural communication and dialogue. Learning to read it is vital to us all. The collection of essays is one of ten celebrating the British Council's 70th anniversary by examining some of the most critical issues for the future of cultural relations. A wide range of thinkers provides provocative and stimulating visions of the power and importance of cultural relations in the 21st century. They don't look for agreement; their aim, and ours, is to encourage debate and cut new channels for dialogue.Read More