The Impact of Western Nationalisms

By George L. Mosse

At the core of twentieth century history lies the most enduring world view of modern times--nationalism. The Impact of Western Nationalisms provides a unique, panoramic view of the history, the contemporary experience, and the ramifications of modern nationalism. Esteemed contributors of this innovative volume examine many facets of nationalism, including the changing definitions of Western nationalism, from nineteenth century conceptions of state development and patriotism through its increasing link with conservatism and chauvinism; the relation of nationalism to development and modernity; its role in fundamentalist and isolationist reactions against the modern world; and its expression in the "civic religion" of the state and the invention of tradition. Also, individual contributions analyze the tensions between nationalism and social ideologies which transcend the boundaries between the nation state, from marxism and international law to pan-Arabist sentiment. A recurrent focus is the issue of the "Jewish nation," its relation to Zionism, and the Holocaust as a climax to one trajectory of Western nationalism. Drawing on a wealth of examples from a wide geographical range, this volume will be essential reading for scholars of contemporary history, political science, and the social theory of the modern state. The volume, the majority of which has appeared in the Journal of Contemporary History (v. 26, no. 3/4), is dedicated to Walter Laqueur in recognition of his unique contribution to the history of modern nationalisms. "The 17 essays in this volume represent an impressive tribute--from scholars as diverse as Bernard Lewis, Zvi Yavetz, Michael Confino, and Paul Mendes-Flohrto--to the achievements of Walter Laqueur. . . . In fact, the book throughout reflects some of the impressive achievements of contemporary Israeli and Jewish scholarship." --Jewish Chronicle

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0803987668
• ISBN13: 9780803987661
• Release Date: September 1992
• Publisher: Sage Publications Ltd
• Length: 352 Pages