Key Concepts in Nationalism, Regionalism, and Geopolitics

Nationalism

A strong sense of pride and loyalty to one's country, often believing it is superior to others.

Regionalism

When people identify more with their specific local area (like a state or province) than with the entire country.

Ethnonationalism

A form of nationalism where the 'nation' is defined by a specific ethnic group rather than just living in the same borders.

Centripetal Forces

Factors or events that bind a country together and create stability.

Centrifugal Forces

Factors or events that pull a country apart or cause division and instability.

Subnationalism

When a group within a country feels a stronger connection to their specific ethnic or regional group than to the national government.

Self-determination

The concept that ethnicities or nations have the right to govern themselves and decide their own political status.

Territoriality

The way a group or person tries to influence or control a specific geographic area to assert power.

Geopolitics

The study of how a country's location and geography influence its political power and relationships with other countries.

Democratization

The process of a country transitioning from an authoritarian (dictatorship) government to a representative democracy.