Precis Practice (Part 1)

The two nationalisms: good and bad?

From "Global Politics" by Andrew Haywood

Does nationalism embrace two, quite distinct traditions? Does nationalism have a ‘good’ face and a ‘bad’ face? The idea that there are, in effect, ‘two nationalisms’ is usually based on the belief that nationalism has contrasting civic and ethnic forms. What is often called civic nationalism is fashioned primarily out of shared political allegiances and political values. The nation is thus an ‘association of citizens’. Civic nationalism has been defended on the grounds that it is open and voluntaristic: membership of the nation is based on choice and self-definition, not on any predetermined ethnic or historical identity. It is a form of nationalism that is consistent with toleration and liberal values generally, being forward-looking and compatible with a substantial degree of cultural and ethnic diversity. Critics, however, have questioned whether civic nationalism is meaningful (Kymlicka 1999). Most citizens, even in a ‘civic’ or ‘political’ nation, derive their nationality from birth, not choice. Moreover, divorced from the bonds of ethnicity, language and history, political allegiances and civic values may simply be incapable of generating the sense of belonging and rootedness that gives nationalism its power. By contrast, ethnic nationalism is squarely rooted in ethnic unity and a deep sense of cultural belonging. This form of nationalism is often criticized for having a closed or fixed character: it is difficult, and perhaps impossible, for non-citizens to become members of the nation. Nationalism therefore acquires a homogenizing character, breeding a fear or suspicion of foreigners and strengthening the idea of cultural distinctiveness, often interwoven with a belief in national greatness. Ethnic nationalism is thus irrational and tends to be tribalistic, even bloodthirsty. On the other hand, its capacity to generate a closed and fixed sense of political belonging may also be a virtue of ethnic nationalism. ‘Ethnic’ or ‘cultural’ nations tend to be characterized by high levels of social solidarity and a strong sense of collective purpose.

Precis by Fatima Batool
Civic Nationalism vs. Ethnic Nationalism

The writer elaborates the difference between the two types of nationalism. Civic nationalism gives citizens the right to self-definition by allowing them to form an association with common political allegiances and values. It is open for voluntary membership. With its tolerant and liberal values, it adequately accommodates cultural and liberal diversity. Contrastingly, ethnic nationalism, based on cultural and ethnic unity, gives citizens the sense of belongingness and rootedness. It is a close system exclusive for those who are born in it. This homogenous bond breeds fear of the foreign to make its culture distinct. With its fixed meaning, ethnic nationalism cannot provide that belongingness which ensures social and political solidarity in ethnic nationalism.

Word Count: 113/433