Nationalism
Religious Studies: KS3, topic 3.3.13
What is a Nationalist?
The term nationalist comes from the word 'nation'.
What is a nationalist?
- A nationalist is usually defined as someone who feels a strong connection with their own country.
- They usually support their country's interests, even when this damages the interests of other nations.
- This sounds very similar to the definition of a patriot.
- However, there are some very important differences between nationalists and patriots.
Patriotism
- Patriotism is national loyalty.
- Patriots will show a love for their country and will be willing to defend it.
- Members of the military who risk their lives to defend their country are often called patriots.
- But 'patriot' can also apply to anyone giving special service to their country, like people who volunteer in times of need.
- Those who worked tirelessly in the NHS during the pandemic could also be called patriots.
Nationalism
- Nationalism usually has a different meaning from patriotism, especially in the modern world.
- Nationalists often believe that the interest of their country is in competition with the interests of another country.
- They also sometimes reject the idea that all nations have a common interest in which their own country has a share.
- So nationalists see the relations between countries as a kind of battle.
Hitler and nationalism
- Hitler believed that Germany should be seen as a superior nation.
- Hitler believed it had the right to take over other countries and impose its values on them.
- This is an example of extreme nationalism.
- This extreme nationalism often leads to countries going to war with each other.
Test yourself on Nationalism
What is a nationalist?