Send in the Corps! The Peace Corps and the Popular Perception of the United States in Latin America

Abstract

This article examines the role of the Peace Corps in U.S. foreign policy and specifically explores the role of the Peace Corps in improving the popular image of the United States. I empirically test the hypothesis that the presence of a Peace Corps program enhances a positive of view of the United States held by the people of that country. Using logistic regression analysis, I show that the presence of Peace Corps Volunteers (PCVs) in a country positively influences individuals' views toward the United States. I analyze survey research from the region of Latin America using datasets from the Latinobarometer public opinion survey. Furthermore, I present a theoretical explanation to understand how the presence of PCVs can lead to an improved perception of the United States. This explanation draws from the contact hypothesis originally proposed by Gordon Allport.Related Articles Garner, Andrew. 2013. “.” Politics & Policy 41 (): 241‐266. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/polp.12010/abstract Alejandro, San Francisco R., and Ángel, Soto G. 2004. “” Politics & Policy 32 (): 139‐156. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2004.tb00179.x/abstract Sabia, Debra. 2003. “.” Politics & Policy 31 (): 347‐370. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2003.tb00152.x/abstract Related MediaDocumentaries: . 2010. “.” July 16. Parts 1 and 2. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=67X9QQT0ir8 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sgco9rR9wic . 2011. “.” Aired January 14. http://abcnews.go.com/Blotter/obama‐sign‐kate‐puzey‐peace‐corps‐volunteer‐protection/story?id=14998236#.UZUS8Up4Bbw