Globalization and National Cultures

Emergence of Nation-State and Nationalism Nationalism (def.): a powerful commitment to the advancement of the interests and welfare of an individual’s own nation. Patriotism: love of country Ethno-centrism: Belief that one’s group or nation is of universal importance. Intolerance of others. Civic/ ethnic nationalism: citizenship/ shared kinship, religion, language Most national cultures are less than two hundred years old. Replaced primary identifications on the basis of religion, kinship, and locality. Re-organization of cultural life along national and territorial lines.

Emergence of Nation-State and Nationalism The attempt by ruling elites and governments to create a new identity that would legitimize centralization and enhancement of state power. The creation, through a mass education system, a sense of common identity, history, and vision for future. The emergence of new communication systems, such as print media. ‘Imagined Communities’ The consolidation of ethnic communities through shared legal rights and duties. ‘Nations cannot be invented where none existed.’ Complex relationship between nationalism and state formation Self-determination principle Ethnic cleansing Multi-national states

Globalization and Nationalism Skeptic view: Despite globalization, national and local cultures remain robust. Nationalism is a very deep-rooted political identity. Communication systems generate an awareness of difference and diversity. Globalization fosters a defensive reaction and strengthens attachment to national cultures. Technology enables a denser and more intense interaction between members of communities who share similar characteristics, notably language. Global cultural products are interpreted through national and local perspectives. No universal history or vision for common future that can unite people. Few signs of a universal, global culture

Globalization and Nationalism Globalist view: National cultures are constructed. Nationalism is at odds with the re-configuration of political power. Distinction between cultural and political nationalism Scale, intensity, speed and diversity of global cultural communications. Impossibility of maintaining national controls over information Global dominance of English as a linguistic infrastructure Transnational media corporations driving cultural globalization. Pluralistic, hyphenated identities, hybrid cultures Emerging global civil society: Transnational social movements with clear regional or global objectives.

Clash of Civilizations Samuel P. Huntington Civilization is the broadest cultural entity A civilization-based world order Conflict along fault-lines of civilizations Danger of Western universalism, need to maintain multi-civilizational character of world politics

Cultural Cosmopolitanism Recognizes the enduring significance of national traditions. Does not seek to replace them. Recognizes the increasing interconnectedness of political communities in diverse domains, including the social, economic, and environmental. Appreciates the overlaps in collective fortunes that require collective solutions Celebration of difference, diversity, and hybridity.

Midterm Exam 22 April, 18:30-19:45, SOS B10 Two sections: Identifications: Select 10 out of 15. Define and explain significance. (2-3 sentences) 60 pts. Total Essay: Select 1 out of 2. 40 pts. Review 21 April class time Lectures and Assigned Readings

and National Identities Europeanization and National Identities

National Identities and Europe Question: In the near future do you see yourself as...? Period: April 2004 Country: EU

Europeanization and Identity Enlargement and growing heterogeneity Increasing politicization of migration Reaction against cosmopolitanism and rise of nationalism Rising regional consciousness Development of European foreign policy and anti- Americanism Possible elements of European identity Role of religion and Christianity Europe’s war-torn past

EU Cultural Policy Why EU needs an identity? Symbolic initiatives Democracy and participation deficits Loyalty does not grow with integration Growing Euro-skepticism Symbolic initiatives Passport, flag, EU prizes, Europe day, European years Single currency Debates about design Education Exchange programs Bologna Process: compatibility of national higher education systems EU funded textbooks- failure!

EU Cultural Policy Media European citizenship Euro-statistics Economic integration and global competitiveness Cultural defense Pan-European TV channels –no viewers? Euronews: consortium of broadcasters European citizenship Every citizen of an EU member state is an EU citizen Rights of mobility and voting Limited set of additional rights. Not a substitute for national citizenship. Euro-statistics Resistance of member states Unity in diversity