Towards a Useful Theory of Nationalism

[Heraclitus]

"- do you see the same problem I am seeing? A rift between what the population feels and what the media tell them to think?"

I suggest trying different media.

That aside, having parents of different nationality really helps putting nationalism into its proper perspective: it's quite useless - as it has been since the 19th century. It's about as useful a political philosophy - if one might call it that - for the 21st century as that other 19th century ideology, Marxism.

What about that silly 18th century notion that all men are created equal? Lots of people who I talk to seem to think the phrase means what a child would think it means and are in total denial about some of the logical conclusions that result from the theory of evolution with regards to mankind.

[C0ckney]

could you expand a little further on that hera?

[Zevico]

I think he means that not all people are created with the same mental and physical characteristics and not all people are capable of the same things.

As far as the principles of self-government are concerned, it is more accurate to say that people are entitled, as much as is practical, to the same rights and opportunities. Freedom of expression, equality under the law, due process, etc. This betters our quality of life generally.

Edit: Oh, and Robocon

[JEELEN]

could you expand a little further on that hera?

Yes, please do.

[Cort Haus]

I think it's time the OP responded to some of the comments people have so considerately suggested.

[VetLegion]

I will... I was away at the beautiful Croatian seaside (<-- shameless plugin for Croatian tourism) and now I'm a bit busy with work. I'll reply as soon as catch the time.

[VetLegion]

I will... I was away at the beautiful Croatian seaside (<-- shameless plugin for Croatian tourism) and now I'm a bit busy with work. I'll reply as soon as catch the time.

[Cort Haus]

Is Eduardo Croatian?

He's Arsenal OK, but is he Croatian?

[Dr Strangelove]

That "trans-national entity" as a concept can be at least as dangerous as nationalism. A shorter word for it might be "empire".

In that context, resisting empire might involve a defensive nationalism which would be positive, taken from the standpoint that imperialism is a negative thing.

Another word for this might be 'sovereignty', a concept under attack in recent decades from strident humanitarian interventionists who see regime change as solving problems rather than creating them. However, the concept was originally derived from the need to protect countries against big powerful imperialists seeking to take them over.

I would argue that this sovereignty is the nearest thing to a "useful theory of nationalism" that I can think of.

Hope this helps, Vet . I'll waive my fee on this occassion.

I was thinking more along the lines of the UN or the EU. Empires either fall apart into nations or if they survive long enough become nations themselves. An example of the former is the Austro-Hungarian Empire, an example of the later is China.

[Dr Strangelove]

Dr. Strangelove, both of the paragraphs in your post reflect truths accepted by the general population. However, the former does NOT explain the origins of nationalism as a motivating force in society.

Sure it does. Humans are innately a social animal. It is in our nature to defend our group. Our group, our land, and our ideas are our territory. Thosw who do not belong are automatically "others".

The latter paragraph is a potential solution to some of the problems created by nationalism. However, a "trans-national" entity is a lot easier to postulate than to create. "Common law" is not the major issue in forming and asserting control thru the suggested entity. However, it will be an issue faced by the new controller.

I was being a little simplistic because I was pressed for time.

[RoboCon]

Hello again! This board appears to be obsessed with nationalism. Perhaps I can be of further assistance.

Great post, Kits - Doctor Strangelove environment is desperately trying to convince you. Cap and trade between the last lesson is a big difference Al Sharpton? Submit. Valerie Plame terrorism - just trust in his mind to Oerdin distinguish dangerous tax. NASCAR NASCAR NASCAR parent union tax on their customers, can not continue to produce resources! Great American that one but lonely, bench, Diabold. 9-11 changed everything. To answer Elok's questions "After Chappaquiddick."

[Cort Haus]

9-11 Chemical Ali Northern Alliance. Ricky Ponting subterfuging immigration bad AIDS onna rates! No respite from dumbed-down A-levels or loony left lesbian holidays in Cambodia, but where is the triceratops backbone when Civil Service Slingshot is nerfed by posthumous patch on Obama-Brezinski unholy alliance with LOTM and Black Panther conspiracy with Jeremy Thorpe and Boris Johnson's stolen Bicycle!

Our words are backed by Nuclear Weapons!!!! And a 12" pasta