While the United States, Russia and Iran struggle for economic or ideological influence in the region, the Caspian's fragile ecosystem is buckling under the hasty and disorderly expoitation of its resources.

ECONOMIST: Fishing for gas, sturgeon and influence

From that moment, the ideological left lost its influence in Japan.

ECONOMIST: Sunset for the men in suits | The

"Special interests purporting to represent gun owners but really advancing the interests of an ideological fringe have used big money and influence to cow Congress into submission, " they write.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

In contrast, soft power refers to a reliance on exporting cultural and ideological values to expand U.S. influence in a much more subtle fashion.

CNN: Commentary: Obama can learn from Bush's failures

As a result of Chavez's ideological affinity with the Iranian regime, the presence and influence of Iran continues to grow.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Champions of democracy

Many other Obama appointees who will be in a position to influence science- and technology-related issues are ideological, radical and poorly qualified to offer sound, unbiased advice on policy.

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