Nationalism: Key terminology

Civic nationalism

A form of nationalism based on the active participation of its citizens and a shared vision of equal citizens.

Liberal internationalism

The idea that sovereign nations should cooperate and create a level of interdependency to avoid international conflict.

Socialist internationalism

The idea that class solidarity is more powerful and politically significant than national identity.

Ethnicity

The sense of belonging to the social group that shares a common and distinctive culture, religion, language, or the like.

Rational

The idea that humans are capable of reasoned thought and are able to make logical decisions for themselves.

Progressive

Ideas that move towards improving society.

Regressive

Ideas that seek to revert society to a former or less advanced state.

Inclusive nationalism

A form of nationalism that believes that joining a nation is straightforward and quick, as it is not based on shared previous experiences.

Exclusive nationalism

A form of nationalism that believes that it takes time to be a part of the nation, as membership is based on shared history and language.

Chauvinistic nationalism

A form of nationalism that believes its nation is superior to others, seeing them as a threat to their survival.

Imperialism/colonialism

The extension of control by one country over another by settlement or economic domination.

Volksgeist

The ‘spirit’ of a nation, the unique identity of a people based on their culture.

Integral nationalism

An intense, hysterical form of patriotism in which the individual is absorbed into the nation.

Black nationalism

A reaction to white oppression originating in the mid-20th century.