Nationalism

Definition

Nationalism is a political, social, and economic system characterized by the promotion of the interests of a particular nation or ethnic group, especially with the aim of gaining and maintaining the nation's sovereignty (self-governance) over its homeland. It involves a strong identification of a group of individuals with a particular nation and the support for that nation's interests, culture, and goals.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Nationalism is a key driver behind the formation of modern nation-states, as groups seek to establish their own sovereign political entities.
2. Religious practices and identities can become intertwined with nationalist movements, as seen in the rise of religious nationalism.
3. News media and public discourse play a crucial role in shaping and propagating nationalist narratives, influencing public opinion and national identity.
4. The development of mass media, such as radio and television, has been instrumental in broadcasting and reinforcing national identities and ideologies.
5. Nationalist movements often seek to create a shared sense of national culture, history, and values, which can be promoted through various forms of media and cultural institutions.

Review Questions

• Explain how nationalism relates to the formation of modern nation-states, as discussed in the topic of 8.4 Modern Nation-States.
  • Nationalism is a key driving force behind the establishment of modern nation-states, as groups seek to create their own sovereign political entities that serve and represent the interests of a particular nation or ethnic group. The desire for self-governance and the promotion of a shared national identity, culture, and values are central to the nationalist agenda, leading to the formation of nation-states that aim to maintain control over a specific territory and population.
• Describe the relationship between nationalism and religious practices, as discussed in the topic of 13.5 Other Forms of Religious Practice.
  • Nationalist movements can often become intertwined with religious identities and practices, as groups seek to establish a strong connection between their national and religious affiliations. This can lead to the rise of religious nationalism, where religious beliefs and institutions are used to legitimize and promote the nationalist agenda. The blending of national and religious identities can be a powerful force in shaping social and political dynamics, as seen in various religious nationalist movements around the world.
• Analyze the role of news media and public discourse in shaping and propagating nationalist narratives, as discussed in the topic of 15.5 News Media, the Public Sphere, and Nationalism.
  • The news media and public discourse play a crucial role in the construction and dissemination of nationalist narratives. Through the selection, framing, and presentation of information, the media can influence public opinion and shape the collective understanding of national identity, history, and goals. The public sphere, where ideas and debates around nationalism take place, is also a key arena where nationalist ideologies are articulated, contested, and reinforced. The interplay between the media, public discourse, and nationalist movements is a complex and dynamic process that can have significant implications for the formation and maintenance of national identities and the political landscape.

Related terms

Nation-State: A political entity that exists to serve and represent the interests of a particular nation or ethnic group, with the goal of achieving and maintaining sovereignty and self-governance over a specific territory.

Patriotism: The feeling of love, devotion, and sense of attachment to one's country or nation, often accompanied by a sense of pride in its achievements and a desire to promote its interests.

Ethnic Nationalism: A form of nationalism based on the belief that a nation is defined by a shared ethnicity, culture, language, and history, often with the goal of creating or maintaining an ethnically homogeneous nation-state.