preview

Nationalism And Democracy Are Intertwined Within The State

Good Essays

Nationalism and democracy often are co-existent with each other at any time within the state. These interactions that they have with each other culminate in both benefits and problems for society, or sometimes produce a neutral reaction. This essay will explore these interactions that could either be beneficial, detrimental, or neutral in the ways that nationalism and democracy are intertwined within the state. The important notion that nationalism brings to democracy is the concept of conflict. Nationalism creates these tensions between the different members of society as they all seek fair or preferential treatment from the state. Therefore, arguments, tensions, and dissenting opinions are inside every state and if democracy can organize these issues, the state will run smoothly. The opposite is true as well, as extreme nationalism may destroy the state. This requires democracy to ensure that the correct amount of nationalism exists so that society will agree with its government and progress. The inability to monitor it, however can interrupt the democratic process and degrade the state’s well being. Nationalism creates pride in one’s identity and beliefs, which increases the chance that they will want their wishes to be represented. As Donald L. Horowitz argues, one of the larger factors of democratic failures is ethnic conflict. He writes, “Ethnic identity provides clear lines to determine who will be included and who will be excluded.” This describes the impact of

Get Access