The Politics and Philosophy of Nationalism

Lecture 1

The Contemporary Relevance of Nations and Nationalism

Why did people think nations would fail?

Ideological: The individualistic nature of Enlightenment ideas, and the collective emphasis of
nationalism, were seen as incompatible and doomed to failure.
 But, nationalism and Enlightenment ideas were always connected to one another.

Economic: The progression of globalisation was assumed to be making nations gradually less
relevant, as the fates of people all over the world became more closely intertwined.
 But, people care about other things than maximising growth. They value having an influence
and having equality, even at the expense of maximum GDP growth.

Political: Politicians on board with the project of globalisation in the mid-to-late 20 th century
perceived nationalism as dangerous and irrational, as it could encourage violence and divided people
from common goals.
 But, some would argue that nations are not as dangerous as has been feared, and may in
fact serve as a tonic to other dangers.

Cultural: Globalisation has brought people closer together, both physically with easier travel than
ever, and discursively with the advent of long-distance phone communications and latterly social
media. It was believed that this would make them see the essential interconnectedness of people.
 But, most people tend to stay around what and who they know for the most part.