The concept of nationalism is something which we see examples of all around us, every day of our lives. National flags at sporting events, adverts urging us to choose a particular country for our vacations, comedic representations of foreigners on television. More seriously, we see its effects in wars and terrorist actions across the globe. However, it is an idea that, whilst most would claim to understand, few can actually put into words.
Nationalism is so hard to explain because it cannot be fitted into just one box. It is similar to patriotism, but whilst patriotism could be defined as the love of one’s country, nationalism focuses more on what shape that country should take. Because of this, it not only encompasses cultural and emotional aspects, but has political and historical implications also. Nationalism could be described as the support of a nation, but every nationalist movement has different aims and origins, whether they be desires for autonomy, political representation, or self-preservation. Even nationalists cannot agree on exactly what constitutes nationalism, as beyond this shared desire for the success of the nation, they have very little in common.
Nevertheless it has been much disputed by political scientists and sociologists alike, and positive and negative aspects of the “ideology” have been suggested. On the positive side, nationalism is said to be an expression of identity. National identity is based on history, culture and often language. Nationalism can be seen as the defense of this identity; the defense of the right of a nation to remain or become a recognised entity. It can be classed as standing against the forces of oppression and tyranny.
The negative results of nationalism, however, cannot be denied. It can cause division in societies when one nationality classes itself as superior to another. This also generates racism, and can often lead to violent and bloody conflicts. On the personal level, individuals may be persecuted because other individuals or groups believe their nationality to be inferior, or that it poses a threat.
Nationalism is often said to be a reactionary rather than a progressive ideology. This is because it is usually the result of some great societal change, which causes individuals and groups to desire a return to previous times. It has often been caused by industrialisation and modernisation. Indeed it has been suggested that the emergence of fascism in Nazi Germany can be traced back to discontent at the modernisation in France, and the idea that this threatened the traditional rural German way of life.
Nationalism is a powerful tool, as it takes its strength from the sentiments of belonging that most individuals possess. This has led to its use by politicians as a way of gaining popular support through uniting a people under a common cause. It is a vague concept, and can be shaped by the bearer to mean almost anything, and most people are vulnerable to it in some form or other. Because of this, it can be a very dangerous weapon in certain hands.
