Smart power is the strategic use of both hard power (military force, coercion) and soft power (attraction, persuasion) to achieve foreign policy goals. It emphasizes using the right combination of tools depending on the context, rather than relying solely on force or diplomacy. Smart power highlights the importance of flexibility, legitimacy, and long-term influence in international relations.

• Nye, J. S. (2009). The future of power. PublicAffairs.