On Nationalism

Eric Hobsbawm's collection of writing on nationalism offers critical historical insights into the contentious subject, particularly in the age of the internet and globalisation. He recognizes the force of nationalism and its potential for progress, while also disliking, distrusting, disapproving, and fearing it.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 04 January 2022
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

Nationalism is a complex and multifaceted concept that has been the subject of much debate and discussion throughout history. While some may view nationalism as a positive force for unity and pride, others argue that it can lead to division, conflict, and prejudice. In this collection of historian Eric Hobsbawm's writing on nationalism, we explore some of the critical historical insights he brings to bear on this contentious subject.

Hobsbawm was a renowned scholar who studied the origins and development of nationalism in various countries throughout the world. He recognized that nationalism was not a monolithic phenomenon but rather a complex and multifaceted movement that was shaped by a variety of social, economic, and political factors.

One of the key insights that Hobsbawm brought to the study of nationalism was the idea that nationalism was not necessarily a modern invention. He argued that nationalism had roots in ancient times and that it had been used by different societies to promote unity and identity. However, Hobsbawm also noted that nationalism had evolved over time and that it had been used in different ways by different groups of people.

For example, in the 19th century, nationalism was often used to promote the interests of national elites and to resist foreign domination. In the 20th century, nationalism was used to promote the interests of oppressed groups and to resist imperialism and colonialism.

Another important insight that Hobsbawm brought to the study of nationalism was the idea that nationalism was not necessarily a negative force. He argued that nationalism could be used to promote social justice, equality, and democracy. However, Hobsbawm also noted that nationalism could be used to promote division, conflict, and prejudice.

For example, in the 19th century, nationalism was often used to promote the idea of racial superiority and to justify the exploitation and oppression of other groups. In the 20th century, nationalism was used to promote the idea of ethnic superiority and to justify the genocide of other groups.

Despite the complexities and contradictions of nationalism, Hobsbawm believed that it was an important force in human history. He argued that nationalism could be used to promote social change and to create a sense of national identity and pride. However, Hobsbawm also believed that nationalism could be used to promote division, conflict, and prejudice.

In conclusion, nationalism is a complex and multifaceted concept that has been the subject of much debate and discussion throughout history. While some may view nationalism as a positive force for unity and pride, others argue that it can lead to division, conflict, and prejudice. In this collection of historian Eric Hobsbawm's writing on nationalism, we explore some of the critical historical insights he brings to bear on this contentious subject. Hobsbawm recognized that nationalism was not a modern invention but rather a complex and multifaceted movement that was shaped by a variety of social, economic, and political factors. He argued that nationalism could be used to promote social justice, equality, and democracy, but that it could also be used to promote division, conflict, and prejudice. Despite the complexities and contradictions of nationalism, Hobsbawm believed that it was an important force in human history and that it could be used to create a sense of national identity and pride. However, he also believed that nationalism could be used to promote division, conflict, and prejudice.

Weight: 314g
Dimension: 127 x 197 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780349143507