THE ‘GLOBAL’ WORLD OF TODAY
The globalised world of today, that is thought to be more open-minded than ever, seems to be not so ‘global’ anymore. Nations are becoming less accepting to the idea of coexistence between different cultures. Yes, nationalism is on the rise - but what does that mean for the international communities around the globe?
To begin with, I would like to direct your attention to the definition of nationalism. This is an ideology that emphasises one’s devotion to their nation. In today’s world, we are experiencing varying opinions regarding migration. One thing is almost certain - it is one of the largest factors contributing to the rise of extreme nationalism. When the growth of towns and cities began during the early 19th century, however, the idea of migration was favoured by countries to a much greater extent.
The transcontinental trade, expansion of towns and wide use of electricity were all a result of the Industrial Revolution. Prior to this, there had been little interaction between societies of differing ethnicities. Therefore, there had been an effective nationalistic regime in most European countries. This enabled newly industrialised countries to colonise the rest of the world, since their nations supported them.
The annexation of foreign territories was crucial for the development of imperialist countries’ economies. These countries benefited financially from having trade markets all over the globe. Consequently, this initiated the distribution of products throughout the world and globalisation emerged.
Globalisation is defined as the process by which businesses or other organizations develop international influence. During the post-industrialisation period, global wealth was becoming more circulated since migration was on the rise. As regions became more developed, social attitudes improved and societies moved away from their ethnocentric ideologies. This then led to wealthier nations being associated with having a more liberal mindset. On the other hand, poorer nations were thought to be more conservative.
During the 20th century, there was a great emergence of new nations. The breakdown of colonies, as well as increasing awareness of varying cultural identities, contributed to this. Throughout the post-war years, countries wanted to ensure that their trade was kept strong. Also, they wanted to minimise the chances of a third world war. Organisations which promoted international cooperation were thus introduced; The United Nations (1945) and the European Economic Community (1957, today known as the European Union) both stimulated an increase in foreign trade. Many agreements, such as those restricting the involvement of foreign powers within another country’s internal affairs, were made in that period.
It has been argued that globalisation ultimately diminishes nationalism. Although globalisation and nationalism could coexist, globalisation weakens the barriers between nations. The two could be perceived as promoting one another - the number and the variety of different states have contributed to a more a globalised world.
However, some individual states began to lose the authority they once had. In the EU, the introduction of new immigrant policies was met with highly conflicting opinions. This has contributed to some countries’ more extreme nationalist views. Also, it has decreased tolerance of foreigners within societies. Thus, this has led to the increase in nationalist party votes during European elections. As a result it has been argued that due to the increase in conservatism, globalisation is becoming undermined by worldwide tensions and hostility.
So, what position does this put us all in?
Well, the two ideologies are interdependent with one always being slightly more prominent. But as a rise in one initiates, it is often followed by the other.
