Nationalism, Patriotism, and National Identity: Social-psychological Dimensions

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Date Published:

Jan 1, 1997

Abstract:

One of the paradoxes of the contemporary world is the continuing and, in many places, growing strength of nationalist ideology at a time when the weaknesses and limitations of the nation–state are becoming increasingly apparent. Many observers agree that the basic conditions for achieving human dignity – for meeting human needs and assuring human rights – must be established on a worldwide basis, through cooperative transnational efforts. To this end, nation–states must be prepared to yield a degree of their national sovereignty, to expand their range of empathy, and to think in terms of global rather than entirely national interests. In short, the realization of human dignity in the contemporary world requires changes in the nationalistic assumptions that have dominated the international system and curtailments of nationalistic demands and aspirations. Yet, throughout the world, people continue to look to the nation–state as the primary provider of human dignity. The populations of established nation–states expect the state to ensure that their needs will be met and their rights protected. At the same time, the idea of the nation–state is repeatedly infused with new energy and vitality as movements of national liberation seek to establish independent states to assure dignity for oppressed populations.

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