Influence of network public opinion on China's diplomatic decision-making

Abstract

As a form of expression of social public opinion, network public opinion refers to the influential and tendentious speeches and viewpoints held by the public and released through the internet concerning hot spots in the real life. Network public opinion is direct, random, unexpected, concealed and biased. With the quick development of the internet in China, network public opinion becomes increasingly influential and it also affects diplomatic decision-making. Network public opinion has promoted the democratisation of China's diplomatic decision-making. Furthermore, it can also set diplomatic topics, bring about social movements and support the strong statements of the Chinese Government in the diplomatic field. However, since network public opinion is often emotional, irrational and extreme, it can easily restrict and even obstruct the foreign policies of a state. The Chinese Government shall adopt positive measures to reduce the negative influence of network public opinion.