How is NATIONALISM changing the world ? (feat. Lawrence)
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Friends,
This time, our discussion topic comes to us from this event's co-host, Lawrence. Here's the intro that Lawrence has kindly provided :
"Nationalism is an ideology that emphasizes loyalty, devotion, or allegiance to a nation or nation-state and holds that such obligations outweigh other individual or group interests. The concept has been overly exploited in the 21st centry, especially in recent years, which is affecting the world tremedously and reshaping how politicians and common people view global cooperation and national protection. Nationalism in real life has been demanstrated in a variety of manifestations. To give a few examples:
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Koreans' “身土不二 propaganda to support national products
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China's great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation
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UK's brexit
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US' the proud nationalist movement by Trump
So how is nationalism changing the world? And what is your opinion on the seemly increasing emphasis and practice of nationalism? We are happy to host a session to discuss. All voices are appreciated, yet we urge you to respect others' opinions despite all the possible differences and keep the discussion sensible. Looking forward to your participation."
Nice! (This is Andy again.) Lawrence has said there is no particular recommended reading this time. But in accord with our group's theme, and my own penchant for geeking out, I will be preparing by trying to learn more about:
- Old-school socialist debates about "The National Question". Historically, how have socialists viewed the relationship between national identity/independence and that other hoped-for revolution? Apparently, Lenin and Rosa Luxemburg exchanged barbs over this very issue: e.g., https://cosmonaut.blog/2020/01/15/fragment-on-war-national-questions-and-revolution-by-rosa-luxemburg/
- A modern-day national independence movement going on not so far from where we are. West Papua's struggle for independence from Indonesia: e.g., https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pkw2zo89EMc
- WWÖD ? : What would Öcalan do?
I don't expect anyone else to read/watch/ponder these, but... You know. Just saying. See you there!