Modern Day Nationalism - Research Paper Example

Modern Day Nationalism Over the years, the ideology of nationalism has played a significant part in shaping views, opinions, and actions of citizens in various nations. This ideology is strengthened and upheld by different people and groups through various cultural, political, and sometimes economic elements. Many communities and countries view nationalism as a unifying factor that binds people of different culture and social classes. Thus, it leads to national, regional, or global peaceful coexistence and cooperation. Although nationalism was practiced in the past, the modern day nationalism has distinct characteristics. Modern day nationalism encourages regionalism and formation of regional political groups or trade unions. Furthermore, it advocates cooperation and commitment to the liberation of the poor and vulnerable in various societies across the world. Modern day nationalism is based on the globalization and regional government concept. Most countries in different regions are changing their view of nationalism. Today, most people view and pride themselves as members of a given area or organization rather than community or tribe. According to Sutherland, through various example from across the world, it is evident different regions have plans to move away from national governance and adopt regional governance (para 2). The East Africa community that is Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania are perfect examples of countries that are planning regional governance. Similarly, sub-states such as Scotland and Catalonia also prefer regional integration and governance as opposed to individual states or communities. These groups desire to identify themselves with a particular region. Additionally, the formation of trade union and regional organizations such as East Africa Community (EAC) in Africa and the National American Free Trade Area (NAFTA) in the America continent shows that countries are past tribal or cultural based cooperation (Sutherland para 2). Furthermore, these organizations are formed as a way of enhancing domestic legitimacy and national prosperity among various states across the world. In addition, modern time’s nationalism greatly contributes to the global development and protection of human rights. Currently, many people feel committed to larger communities and the interest of various people across the world (Ezzat para 3). As a result, nationalism builds a sense of identity and cooperation between various people from different religions, countries or even tribes (Weeks). Furthermore, nationalism is also essential and vital in contributing to human progress and freedom. Nationalists no longer fight for their compatriots or clan mates, but also with other oppressed and undervalued members of the community worldwide. Although this act results in fear and conflict across the world, it vital to freedom and liberation of various groups or communities. Currently, people express and practice nationalism through various platforms. With the advancement of technology and different social sites, many people use these platforms to express their love, affection and loyalty to their various countries or regions (Sutherland para 4). Through post and pictures, these people show love and express pride in being citizens of particular countries. Some also share their flags and the national anthem in these platforms. Furthermore, these people use technology to access government posts and critical information regarding their country. Not only are they concerned about their country, but also celebrate their musicians and artists. The internet and social media enables them to learn about their country’s music and artworks. They proudly share and show support to these artists (Keck para 2). These are some of the perfect ways of practicing nationalism in the current times. Additionally, some citizens express nationalism through obeying the laws and rules of their countries. They do this by respecting other people’s rights and carrying out their constitutional obligations to the country (Sutherland para 3). For instance, security personnel staying true to their responsibility to protect the country is a perfect way of showing love and commitment to the country and the citizens. In addition, some help the poor and the vulnerable in the society regardless of their country of origin and tribe. These are the practices the modern generation does to show love and affection for their various countries and regions. According Keck, obedience and responding to the call of duty are the simplest ways to show dedication, commitment and pride in the country (para 5). Conversely, the past era had a different perception of nationalism. In the past, nationalism was characterized by the dehumanization of other people based on their origin, culture, tribe, and religious practices. This method was common across the world where foreigners were subjected to harsh treatment and conditions due to their status. For instance, this practice was common in East Europe. The majority of the inhabitants of this part of Europe considered their ethnic group superior to other ethnic groups across the world. Similarly, Egyptians had particular beliefs and traditions regarding nationalism. According to the article Part Three: Definition, Basis and Characteristics of Nationalism, they believed that citizens should defend and fight for a compatriot against any foreigner in their country. According to them, this was done regardless of whether the compatriot was wrong or right. Egyptians believed a compatriot was always rights, and his/her safety and concerns came first before the foreigners’. Furthermore, some communities and countries attached nationalism to their various tribes. According to Keck, these communities took pride in their cultures and tribal backgrounds (para 7). Their unifying factors included blood and lands in the community. The community members highly regarded and respected whoever belonged to their tribes. They sacrificed much to ensure the community stayed in peace and unity. Consequently, they excommunicated aliens and other intruders who showed signs of disrupting the peaceful coexistence among community members. In addition, these groups engaged in war and conflict for community’s sake. They fiercely fought rivals with pride and dedication as a way of showing love and affection to their tribes. Evidently, acts of nationalists across eras have distinctive differences. The past generations were selfish and self-centered. Their acts of nationalism were aimed at benefiting individuals based on tribal lines. They neglected others due to their tribes or country of origin. Conversely, that is not the case in modern day nationalism. The modern day nationalism is mature and all inclusive. Nationalists fight for the vulnerable and the undervalued people in the community. In addition, acts of cooperation and regional developments have been witnessed in the world. The EAC and NAFTA are the perfect examples of regional organizations formed to promote unity, cooperation, and economic development. Through these changes, it is evident that the ideology of nationalism has gradually evolved over the years. Currently, citizens do not only pride themselves as members of a particular tribe, but of a country or region Works Cited Ezzat, Tamara. “Nationalism in Our World – Europe.” News Action Europe. N.p., 2014. Web. 11 Apr. 2015. ‘Part Three: Definition, Basis and Characteristics of Nationalism.’ Al-Islam.org, n.d. Web. 11 Apr. 2015. Sutherland, Claire. “Nationalism in the 21st Century.” E-International Relations (2012): n. page. Web. 11 Apr. 2015. Weeks, Linton. “America’s Love Affair With Nationalism.” National Public Radio (2011): n. page. Web. 11 Apr. 2015. Read More