Lecture Notes: Nations and Nationalism - Cultural Nationalism

Introduction

• Focus on nationalism, specifically cultural nationalism.

Cultural Nationalism

• Definition: Nation builds on an ethnic foundation.
• Herder's View:
  • Ethnic foundations are natural and durable.
  • Language, culture, religion, food, and clothing contribute to community stability.
  • Organic production of ethnic foundations leads to community stability.

Anthony Smith's Perspective

• Historical ethnicity is crucial but transforms in modern societies.
• Modern cultural nationalism is less robust and not as narrow as Herder's view.
• Example: Canada's cultural aspects like sports (hockey vs. lacrosse).
• Cultural nationalism can justify national liberation struggles.
  • Example: Desire for autonomy in WWI and WWII.

Exclusive Nationalism

• Emerges when cultural nationalism is linked to exclusivity.
• Samuel Huntington's cultural conflict theory: lack of integration and cultural diversification (e.g., Hispanic Americans in the U.S.)

Cultural vs. Ethnic Nationalism

• Ethnic Nationalism: Often a substitute for race.
• Cultural Nationalism: Subjective components like beliefs and social norms.
  • Selective appreciation of culture.
  • Cultural nationalists may express selective views on religion and other cultural aspects.

Kwame A. Appiah's Quote

• History influences identity, but cultural nationalism involves a selective choice of historical and cultural aspects.

Resurgence of Cultural Nationalism

• Present in countries, including the U.S.
• Linked to religion, immigration, economic reasons, language, and cultural traits.

Conclusion

• Cultural nationalism involves selecting cultural aspects that define a nation.
• Emphasis on engagement and understanding of cultural nationalism.

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Key Takeaways

• Cultural nationalism relies on ethnic foundations but adapts in modernity.
• It can justify liberation and lead to exclusive nationalism.
• History and cultural selection play a critical role in defining national identity.

Next Steps

• Engage further in upcoming discussions about nationalism.

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