Nationalism

Nationalism is a political ideology and movement that emphasizes the interests, culture, and identity of a specific nation or group of people. It advocates for the promotion of national unity and sovereignty, often seeking to establish or maintain a nation-state based on shared characteristics such as ethnicity, language, history, or culture. Nationalism can manifest in various forms, including political, economic, and cultural expressions, and may encourage self-determination and independence from foreign influence or control.

The concept can be positive, fostering a sense of community and belonging, or negative, leading to exclusionary practices, xenophobia, and conflict with other nations or groups. Nationalism often influences political policies, including immigration, foreign relations, and social cohesion within a country. It can be tied to both civic nationalism, which is based on citizenship and shared values, and ethnic nationalism, which centers on shared heritage and ethnicity.