Types of Nationalism: Ethnic, Civic, Integral, and More

Social 20 Nationalisms: Dissecting Different Kinds of Belonging

Nationalism is a complex and multifaceted concept that has shaped the world's societies, cultures, and politics. While the idea of nationalism can encompass a wide range of emotions and ideologies, it's useful to break down the various types of nationalism that have emerged throughout history.

Ethnic Nationalism

Ethnic nationalism, as the name suggests, is founded on the primacy of ethnic identity. Proponents of ethnic nationalism emphasize the importance of shared ancestry, heritage, and culture as the basis for a nation. Ethnic nationalism often leads to the formation of homogenous societies, and can result in prejudice, discrimination, and conflict against those who do not share the same ancestry and cultural background.

Civic Nationalism

Civic nationalism, on the other hand, focuses on a shared sense of citizenship and common political values. Citizens of a civic nationalist state are united by their commitment to a set of ideals, such as democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, rather than a shared ethnicity or cultural heritage. Civic nationalism is more inclusive because it embraces individuals from diverse backgrounds who share a common vision for their country.

Integral Nationalism

Integral nationalism, also known as integralism, is a form of nationalism that sees the state as an all-encompassing entity. Integral nationalists aim to create a unified nation where all aspects of society, including culture, politics, and economics, are tightly bound together. This type of nationalism often results in centralized power and a lack of individual freedoms.

Religious Nationalism

Religious nationalism, as the name implies, is a form of nationalism rooted in religious beliefs and practices. Followers of religious nationalism feel a strong sense of connection to their faith and consider it to be an essential aspect of their national identity. Religious nationalism often leads to conflicts between nations when their religious traditions and beliefs clash.

Romantic Nationalism

Romantic nationalism, a term coined by German philosopher Johann Gottfried Herder in the late 18th century, emphasizes the importance of a nation's unique cultural identity. Romantic nationalists celebrate the distinctiveness of their nation's traditions, language, and customs, and may view the state as a protector of their cultural heritage.

Social Nationalism

Social nationalism, distinct from romantic nationalism, stresses the importance of social equality and the wellbeing of the population. Social nationalists aim to create a society where individuals have equal opportunities and access to resources, and where the state plays an active role in promoting the common good. Social nationalism is often associated with left-wing or socialist ideologies.

Perennial Nationalism

Perennial nationalism is a relatively new concept that focuses on the enduring nature of national identity and its role in shaping societies and cultures. Proponents of perennial nationalism argue that national identity is a continuous and evolving phenomenon that transcends time and space.

Conclusion

Understanding the various forms of nationalism is crucial to comprehending the complex tapestry of human societies. As the world becomes increasingly diverse and interconnected, the study of nationalism helps us to understand the forces that shape our societies and the ideologies that motivate individuals and groups. From ethnic nationalism to perennial nationalism, the types of nationalism outlined above showcase the rich and complex landscape of human identity, where belonging and nationalism are constantly in flux.