​The Peregrine Collective was pleased to host a salon discussing soft power, the mechanisms of the societal renewal, and our individual responses to the structures of culture. We had a wide-ranging discussion that was both descriptive and prescriptive about the influence of technology, culture, and political dynamics on soft power and the mechanisms that facilitate its spread. From the efficacy of the No Child Left Behind Act (or lack thereof) to the rise of symbolic, enchanted thinking, we identified a common obstacle to the moral exercise of soft power: a pervasive loss of trust between the rulers and the ruled.

We started the night by serving Diplo-mojitos, followed by informal discussions about the distinguishing aspects of American pop culture and the interplay of soft power and existential risks. Our main course was a moderated roundtable discussion, the fruits of which continued into the wee hours of the morning through continued conversation, culminating in a nightcap of pastéis de nata (Portuguese egg tarts). Event photos are to come!