Englishness: The Political Force Transforming Britain

English nationalism is reshaping Britain's place in the world, but it is poorly understood. Ailsa Henderson and Richard Wyn Jones argue that it combines a sense of grievance about England's place within the UK with a fierce commitment to a particular vision of Britain's past, present, and future. Understanding its Janus-faced nature is key to understanding English nationalism and its transforming British politics.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 13 October 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Until the Brexit referendum, there was widespread doubt about whether English nationalism existed at all, at least beyond a small fringe. Since then, it has become an obvious explanation for the vote to leave the European Union. Subsequent opinion polls have raised doubts about the extent of continuing English commitment to the Union of the United Kingdom itself. Yet, even as Englishness is apparently reshaping Britain's place in the world and perhaps, ultimately, the state itself, it remains poorly understood.

In this book, Ailsa Henderson and Richard Wyn Jones draw on data from the Future of England Survey, a specially commissioned public attitudes survey program exploring the political implications of English identity. They demonstrate that English nationalism is emphatically not a rejection of Britain and Britishness. Rather, English nationalism combines a sense of grievance about England's place within the United Kingdom with a fierce commitment to a particular vision of Britain's past, present, and future. Understanding its Janus-faced nature - both England and Britain - is key not only to understanding English nationalism, but also to understanding the ways in which it is transforming British politics.

The authors argue that English nationalism is not a monolithic entity but rather a complex and multifaceted phenomenon. They explore different dimensions of English nationalism, including its historical roots, cultural expressions, political implications, and social and economic consequences. They argue that English nationalism is not a reaction to globalization or immigration but rather a response to a sense of identity and belonging that has been marginalized and underrepresented in British politics.

The authors also examine the political implications of English nationalism. They argue that English nationalism has the potential to reshape British politics and influence the country's relationship with the European Union and the rest of the world. They note that English nationalism has been a driving force behind the Brexit vote and has influenced the political discourse in the United Kingdom. However, they also argue that English nationalism can be a source of division and conflict within the United Kingdom, particularly between different regions and communities.

The authors conclude that English nationalism is a significant and complex phenomenon that is reshaping Britain's place in the world. They argue that understanding English nationalism is essential for understanding the political dynamics of the United Kingdom and for promoting a more inclusive and cohesive society. They call for a more nuanced and empathetic approach to English nationalism that recognizes its positive aspects while addressing its potential negative consequences.

In conclusion, English nationalism is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that is reshaping Britain's place in the world. This book provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of English nationalism by drawing on data from the Future of England Survey and making new and original arguments about the nature of English nationalism. By understanding its Janus-faced nature, we can better understand the ways in which it is transforming British politics and promote a more inclusive and cohesive society.

Weight: 380g
Dimension: 155 x 231 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780192867599