ABSTRACT
Researchers in the domains of imagology, nation images, nation branding and news framing present a range of opinions on the level of fixity of existing images. The most positive assessments of the potential to change images are, unsurprisingly, put forward by those working in the field of nation branding. This chapter also presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book builds in two parts, the first focusing on image-shaping through official channels of cultural cooperation and diplomacy, and the second looking at image-shaping through representation in the media, on television and in connection with various on-the-ground activities. It provides the conceptual and theoretical frameworks that underlie notions of images and image-shaping is called for. The book shows scholars from different academic disciplines and nationally diverse groups to explore the issues.
