Subject
Nationalism Books
Best books
Rabindranath Tagore
Nationalism
"Nationalism" by Rabindranath Tagore is a philosophical treatise written in the early 20th century. The text delves into the concept of nationalism, especially in the context of the Western world, Japan, and India. Tagore critiques the mechanistic nature of nation-states and emphasizes the importance of individual humanity, social cooperation, and spiritual unity over militaristic nationalism. The opening of the work sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of how different cultures face their historical challenges, with a particular focus on India's unique race problem. Tagore reflects on the internal struggles India has faced due to its diverse population and critiques how Western nationalism has influenced societal structures. He contrasts the superficial mechanics of the nation-state with the deeper spiritual and social bonds that truly define humanity, expressing a hope for a reconciliation between Eastern and Western values that honors human interconnectedness over mere political or national identities.
Leon Dominian
The Frontiers of Language and Nationality in Europe
"The Frontiers of Language and Nationality in Europe" by Leon Dominian is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. The book explores the intricate relationships between language distribution and national borders in Europe, emphasizing how geography has influenced the formation of linguistic and national identities. It offers insights into how language acts as a unifying factor within nationalities, while also addressing the impact of historical migrations and territorial disputes. At the start of the book, Dominian sets the stage by articulating the connection between language and territory. He discusses the historical evolution of human settlement and how different languages arise from specific geographical contexts, influencing human identity and culture. This opening section highlights the duality of language as both a marker of national and racial identity, presenting the idea that contemporary European boundaries have been shaped by a multitude of factors, including physical landscape and demographic changes. The preface and introduction establish the context for the subsequent analysis of linguistic frontiers, setting a scholarly tone and indicating the relevance of these themes in ongoing discussions about nationality and geopolitics in post-World War I Europe.
Walter Bagehot
Physics and Politics, or, Thoughts on the application of the principles of "natural selection" and "inheritance" to political society
"Physics and Politics, or, Thoughts on the Application of the Principles of 'Natural Selection' and 'Inheritance' to Political Society" by Walter Bagehot is a scientific publication written in the late 19th century. This work explores the intersection of scientific theories, particularly those of natural selection and inheritance, with the evolution of political structures and societies. Bagehot aims to illustrate how scientific principles may influence political thought and societal developments through time. The opening of the text sets the stage for a discussion on the influence of physical knowledge and science on politics and social organization. Bagehot emphasizes that contemporary advancements in science have revealed much about human behavior, suggesting that our understanding of individual and collective political actions can benefit from a framework similar to that used in natural sciences. He introduces concepts such as the historical influence of ancestry on individual traits and behaviors, indicating that both personal and social progress can be traced back through generations, thereby linking scientific theories of heredity to the evolution of political structures. Through this exploration, Bagehot aims to blend historical analysis with contemporary scientific ideas to suggest a cohesive theory of political evolution influenced by the principles of natural selection.
Arthur James Balfour
Decadence Henry Sidgwick memorial lecture, 1908
"Decadence" by Arthur James Balfour is an exploratory philosophical essay delivered as a lecture at Newnham College in the early 20th century. This thoughtful treatment delves into the concept of decadence, focusing not on its artistic or literary manifestations, which are often discussed, but rather its implications for political and national decline. Balfour's discussion is framed within the context of historic civilizations and the greater questions of societal evolution, stability, and potential decay. In the essay, Balfour presents a series of reflections on the nature of civilizational history through the lens of decadence, pondering whether it is an inevitable part of the life cycle of nations, akin to aging in individuals. He investigates the factors that may contribute to the decline of great empires, specifically referencing the Roman Empire as a case study to illustrate the complexities inherent in identifying the reasons behind such profound shifts. He contemplates the nuances between decadence as a discrete process versus more apparent misfortunes like war or famine that often accompany societal downfalls. Ultimately, Balfour invites readers to consider the intricate interplay of historical, cultural, and social elements that contribute to the rise and fall of civilizations, leaving them with a sense of caution about the future trajectory of societies as they navigate the currents of progress and potential decline.
Rabindranath Tagore
Nationalismus
"Nationalismus" by Rabindranath Tagore is an insightful philosophical treatise written in the early 20th century. The work explores the concept of nationalism, particularly in the context of India and its historical social fabric, while critiquing the mechanistic nature of modern nation-states. Tagore delves into themes of identity, interconnectedness among races, and the moral implications of nationalistic fervor, contrasting Western ideals with Indian traditions. The opening of the text presents Tagore's philosophical reflections on the historical challenges and character of different peoples. He emphasizes India's unique struggle with racial diversity and social integration, portraying these challenges as opportunities for moral and spiritual growth rather than simply obstacles. Tagore critiques the mechanized operations of modern nationalism that prioritize power and material gain over genuine human connections. He warns that the ruthless pursuit of nationalism often leads to moral decay, urging a return to deeper human values that honor individual dignity and communal spirit rather than abstract nationalistic ideologies.
Arthur Keith
Nationality and Race from an Anthropologist's Point of View Being the Robert Boyle lecture delivered before the Oxford university junior scientific club on November 17, 1919
"Nationality and Race from an Anthropologist's Point of View" by Sir Arthur Keith is a scientific publication presented as a lecture delivered in the early 20th century. The book explores the complexities and dynamics of race and nationality, particularly in the context of anthropological evolution and modern societal structures. It delves into the historical interactions and tensions between various racial and national groups, particularly focusing on the British Empire and its territories. In this work, Keith discusses how racial and national identities have emerged and evolved over time, emphasizing that inherited tribal instincts play a significant role in shaping modern conflicts. He examines case studies from various regions, including the United States, Canada, South Africa, and Europe, to illustrate how historical patterns of colonization, migration, and racial interactions influence current societal issues. The lecture outlines the friction that arises when different races and nationalities come into contact, suggesting that understanding these underlying instincts is essential for addressing contemporary racial and national problems. Through comprehensive examples, Keith argues that many of today's challenges are deeply rooted in the primitive tribal organization of human society, thereby calling for a nuanced approach to reform and unity.
Franz Boas
Race and nationality
"Race and nationality by Franz Boas" is a scholarly essay in anthropology and social thought written in the early 20th century. The work challenges popular beliefs about race and nationalism, arguing that supposed racial instincts and pure racial types are myths, that nationality rests on shared culture more than blood or language, and that humanity should move toward a federation of nations. The essay rejects the idea that Europe’s conflict is a war of races, showing that physical types and ancestries are widely mixed and do not match national borders or languages. It dismantles the blond Aryan myth, finds no evidence for the inferiority of mixed populations, and explains that what we call race often masks national habit and sentiment. Nationality, it argues, grows from common habits, feelings, and political life; language can aid it but is not essential, as shown by places like Belgium and Switzerland, and even polyglot empires can develop shared civic ideals. While acknowledging nationalism’s creative role in enlarging the individual’s field of action, the essay warns against its aggressive, expansionist misuse in pan-movements. Tracing social evolution from small hordes to nations, it proposes the next step: a federation of nations with common aims, surpassing mere arbitration. It concludes that education should temper patriotic fervor with international ethics, and that war is defensible only to protect the integrity of essential ideals, not to impose one nation’s will on others.
N. C. (Nathaniel Clark) Burt
National character : $b A Thanksgiving discourse Delivered November 15th, 1855, in the Franklin Street Presbyterian Church
"National Character: A Thanksgiving Discourse" by N. C. Burt is a religious discourse delivered in the mid-19th century, specifically in 1855. This publication serves as a reflection on the nature of nations, their moral character, and the relationship between divinity and governance, particularly in the context of America. The discourse emphasizes the intersection of faith and national identity, urging the audience to recognize their duties as citizens within a divine moral framework. In the discourse, Burt explores the characteristics that define a nation, discussing elements such as common ancestry, language, territory, and governance. He acknowledges that while these factors play a role in forming a nation, it is the idea of a sovereign state ordained by God that holds ultimate significance. He argues that a nation’s true blessing lies in its recognition of God as its Lord. Additionally, Burt addresses the moral responsibilities the government holds towards its citizens and emphasizes the need for religious principles to guide national conduct. He contends that as America strives to make God the foundation of its national identity, it will secure its destiny and prosperity, ultimately calling for a unification of spiritual and civic duties in service of their nation and God.
Recently surfaced classics