Nationalism is an ideology that the interests and culture of a given nation are bigger than those of other countries, and that countries should act independently to achieve their objectives and goals. Nationalism describes a state based on values, traditions, or language. Nationalism supports that every country should build its political society on the pillar of common history and destiny. Nationalism is a recent idea since the formation of nations and states occurred in the 19th century (Philosophy Basics, n.d). European states were the first to implement national harmony and uniqueness to revolutionize humanity and their economy.
Nationalism supports that every country has a moral right to an autonomous state, and therefore, assures the existence of a country to protect its unique identity and provide a conducive place where national ethos and culture are dominant. Nationalism expresses the urge of a country to self-determination. Nationalism is often associated with virtue, such as patriotism, but in extreme cases, patriotism can lead to vices such as chauvinism, racism, militarism, xenophobia, and imperialism (Philosophy Basics, n.d). When such vices are prolonged for some time, they result in fascism.
Nationalism exists in religious, civic, ethnic, ideological, and cultural settings, which are applied in the classification of nationalism. For instance, ethnic nationalism is a situation in which a country is portrayed in terms of its ethnicity. Civic nationalism is whereby a nation has defined the participation of its citizens and its will to represent citizens’ views (Philosophy Basics, n.d). State nationalism is whereby a nation is assumed to be a community where leaders strengthen and maintain the state while the community members contribute to the same goal.
Nationalism supports that all nations should be autonomous to achieve their goals. The different types of nationalism occur due to different settings that are responsible for bringing citizens together, thus enhancing national unity.
References
Philosophy Basics. (n.d). The Basics of Philosophy. Retrieved from Philosophy Basics: https://www.philosophybasics.com/branch_nationalism.html