Abstract

This research article introduces the concept of public diplomacy within the framework of international relations and transnational communication. It looks at how Germany, by way of her international broadcaster Deutsche Welle, addresses Arabic-speaking target groups in post-9/11 public diplomacy, and how "dialogic" such mediatized endeavors can be. For this end, the article presents a critical analysis of the requirements of dialogue drawing on Habermas’s (1984) Theory of Communicative Action. What transpires is a determination of Deutsche Welle as an organization to at least present a quest for dialogue as a projection of Germany’s national values, policies, and self-image. The invocation of "dialogue" via Deutsche Welle's Arabic-language radio, television and online channels may reflect a reassertion of the very self-image Germany feels most comfortable with: that of the Open-minded Society of Consensus as one of the country’s grand narratives.