Varieties of Nationalism: Communities, Narratives, Identities

Nationalism is an empirically variegated ideology that can be broken down into parts based on three key questions: Does a nation exist? How do national narratives vary? When do national narratives matter? The answers to these questions generate five dimensions along which nationalism varies: elite fragmentation and popular fragmentation of national communities; ascriptiveness and thickness of national narratives; and salience of national identities.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 03 August 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Nationalism, a complex and multifaceted concept, has been the subject of intense debate and scrutiny throughout history. It is intricately linked with democratic revolutions, the provision of public goods, and the promotion of social cohesion. However, nationalism has also been associated with xenophobia, genocide, and armed conflicts.

In order to move beyond simplistic dichotomies between "good" and "bad" nationalism, the authors propose a more nuanced understanding of the ideology. They argue that nationalism is an empirically variegated phenomenon, characterized by diverse manifestations and interpretations. Definitional disagreements, Eurocentric conceptualizations, and linear associations between ethnicity and nationalism have hindered our ability to synthesize insights into the complex nature of nationalism.

To address these challenges, the authors suggest that nationalism can be broken down productively into its constituent parts based on three key questions:

Does a nation exist? This question seeks to establish the ontological basis of nationalism. It explores whether a collective identity can be formed around a shared territory, history, culture, or language.

How do national narratives vary? National narratives are the stories that individuals and societies tell about their nation's past, present, and future. They shape the collective identity and sense of belonging of a nation. The variation in national narratives can be attributed to factors such as historical events, cultural diversity, and political ideologies.

When do national narratives matter? National narratives play a crucial role in shaping public opinion, influencing political decisions, and fostering social cohesion. They can be used to justify wars, promote national interests, or unite people against external threats.

The answers to these questions generate five dimensions along which nationalism varies:

Elite fragmentation and popular fragmentation of national communities: Nationalism can manifest as a divide between the elite and the general population, with different groups holding differing views on the nation's identity and goals.

Ascriptiveness and thickness of national narratives: National narratives can vary in terms of their ascriptiveness, or the extent to which they are based on historical facts and cultural traditions. They can also vary in terms of their thickness, or the depth and complexity of their content.

Salience of national identities: The salience of national identities refers to the extent to which individuals identify with their nation and feel a sense of belonging. National identities can be shaped by historical events, cultural heritage, and political ideologies.

Intersectionalities and multipolarities: Nationalism can exist in a multipolar world, where multiple nations or ethnic groups coexist within a single state or region. Intersectionalities, or the overlap of different identities, can also shape nationalism.

Transnationalism and globalism: Nationalism can also transcend national boundaries, as individuals and groups engage in transnational activities and form global networks. Globalism, in turn, can influence the nature and dynamics of nationalism.

In conclusion, nationalism is a complex and multifaceted concept that has been shaped by a wide range of historical, cultural, and political factors. Moving beyond simplistic distinctions between "good" and "bad" nationalism, it is essential to understand the nuanced nature of nationalism and its various dimensions. By examining the questions of nationhood, national narratives, and the significance of national identities, we can gain a deeper appreciation of the complex interplay between nationalism and social, political, and economic processes.

ISBN-13: 9781108972925