Nation-States & Culturalism

Political Studies: Edexcel A Level, topic 19.1.2

Nation-States

A nation-state is a nation that controls its own political and economic system within a defined territory.

A nation-state is the ultimate form of recognition and self-determination achieved by a defined nation.
The presence of territorial borders enable attachment to the nation by fostering and constraining political and cultural particularisms.
For example, the presence of national symbols like the flag and the sharing of news and information lead to a sense of individuality which does not extend beyond the border.

With the growth of supra-national organisations like the European Union, some have argued that the nation-state is in gradual decline.
But, the election of Donald Trump, the withdrawal of Britain from the EU and the election of populist leaders in countries like Hungary have re-asserted the place of the nation in the international order.
Supra-nationalism has also caused tension within the Scottish independence movement as the SNP want to join Europe but leave the UK.

Globalisation has also had an effect on the ability of nation-states to control their own affairs.
The interconnectivity of economic activity, coupled with the prevalence of international institutions like the World Bank and International Monetary Fund, has led some to question just how ‘independent’ nation-states can be in the modern world.

Culturalism introduces the idea that nationalism is based on shared cultural societal values which are grounded in emotional ties.

A nation is held together by shared cultural ties, symbols and traditions.
There is an emphasis on the distinctiveness and romanticism of such traditions.
Culture may range from food, dress and music; like the haggis, kilt and bagpipes in Scotland.
Cultural nationalism may demonstrate a high regard for cultural icons, mythical figures and/or warriors; for example Robert Burns, Robert the Bruce and Braveheart.

Cultural nationalism may help to strengthen the desire for political self-determination.
The long-held cultural traditions of the UK nations was only recently given a political voice with devolution in 1999 for Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
The lack of strong cultural traditions in England as a whole may explain the lack of national devolution in the way given to the other three nations.
Cultural traditions in England tend to exist at a regional and/or local level.

Cultural nationalism is more inclusive than ethnic nationalism and welcomes ‘outsiders’ to participate in the traditions of the nation.
Cultural nationalism does not require a single ethnicity or racial profile.
Cultural nationalism is different from civic nationalism in that the cultural traditions can be recognised, revered, and celebrated away from the nation and its territory.
For example, Scottish and Irish culture can be seen in many different countries around the world.

What is one of the defining features of a nation-state?
What might explain the lack of strong cultural traditions in England as a whole?
Which of the following might be regarded as sources of cultural ties?