Nationalism is one of the most influential ideological movements. Its key principle is the thesis of the value of a nation as the highest form of social association.
Classical nationalism and its principles
The term nationalism predominantly has a negative interpretation. This is facilitated by the media, in which nationalism is understood to be its extreme forms. In particular, ethnonationalism with its extreme forms - fascism, chauvinism, xenophobia, etc. These movements emphasize the fact that one nationality has superiority over another and are essentially anti-human.
The key values of nationalism are loyalty and devotion to their nation, patriotism, political and economic independence. As a political movement, he aims to uphold the interests of the nation in relations with the state. Moreover, proponents of traditional nationalism condemned intolerance towards other nations. On the contrary, ideology advocates the unification of various sectors of society.
The basic principles of nationalism also include the right of nations to self-determination; the right of nations to participate in the political process; national self-identification; nation as the highest value.
Nationalism is a relatively new ideology; it arose only in the 18th century. Its specificity lies in the fact that it does not have outstanding ideologists and thinkers who would state its principles in a concise form. But despite this, he had an extremely important influence on social and political life. Some of his ideas were embodied in liberalism, conservatism, and socialism.
Classical nationalism emerged as a form of protest against national oppression and lawlessness. He contributed to the liberation from colonialism, various forms of discrimination and the creation of an independent national state. In particular, thanks to the spread of nationalism, dozens of independent states were created in the countries of Asia, Africa and Latin America. National-democratic ideology is widespread in the countries of the post-Soviet space. Thanks to her, Lithuania, Ukraine, Georgia, etc. were formed.
