Okinawan Fighting Art "Ti": OT: Nationalism and Its Effects on Society

When you begin to feel like you are a tough guy, a warrior, a master of the martial arts or that you have lived a tough life, just take a moment and get some perspective with the following:

I've stopped knives that were coming to disembowel me

I've clawed for my gun while bullets ripped past me

I've dodged as someone tried to put an ax in my skull

I've fought screaming steel and left rubber on the road to avoid death

I've clawed broken glass out of my body after their opening attack failed

I've spit blood and body parts and broke strangle holds before gouging eyes

I've charged into fires, fought through blizzards and run from tornados

I've survived being hunted by gangs, killers and contract killers

The streets were my home, I hunted in the night and was hunted in turn

Please don't brag to me that you're a survivor because someone hit you. And don't tell me how 'tough' you are because of your training. As much as I've been through I know people who have survived much, much worse. - Marc MacYoung

WARNING, CAVEAT AND NOTE

The postings on this blog are my interpretation of readings, studies and experiences therefore errors and omissions are mine and mine alone. The content surrounding the extracts of books, see bibliography on this blog site, are also mine and mine alone therefore errors and omissions are also mine and mine alone and therefore why I highly recommended one read, study, research and fact find the material for clarity. My effort here is self-clarity toward a fuller understanding of the subject matter. See the bibliography for information on the books. Please make note that this article/post is my personal analysis of the subject and the information used was chosen or picked by me. It is not an analysis piece because it lacks complete and comprehensive research, it was not adequately and completely investigated and it is not balanced, i.e., it is my personal view without the views of others including subject experts, etc. Look at this as “Infotainment rather then expert research.” This is an opinion/editorial article/post meant to persuade the reader to think, decide and accept or reject my premise. It is an attempt to cause change or reinforce attitudes, beliefs and values as they apply to martial arts and/or self-defense. It is merely a commentary on the subject in the particular article presented.

Note: I will endevor to provide a bibliography and italicize any direct quotes from the materials I use for this blog. If there are mistakes, errors, and/or omissions, I take full responsibility for them as they are mine and mine alone. If you find any mistakes, errors, and/or omissions please comment and let me know along with the correct information and/or sources.

“What you are reading right now is a blog. It’s written and posted by me, because I want to. I get no financial remuneration for writing it. I don’t have to meet anyone’s criteria in order to post it. Not only I don’t have an employer or publisher, but I’m not even constrained by having to please an audience. If people won’t like it, they won’t read it, but I won’t lose anything by it. Provided I don’t break any laws (libel, incitement to violence, etc.), I can post whatever I want. This means that I can write openly and honestly, however controversial my opinions may be. It also means that I could write total bullshit; there is no quality control. I could be biased. I could be insane. I could be trolling. … not all sources are equivalent, and all sources have their pros and cons. These needs to be taken into account when evaluating information, and all information should be evaluated.” - God’s Bastard, Sourcing Sources (this applies to this and other blogs by me as well; if you follow the idea's, advice or information you are on your own, don't come crying to me, it is all on you do do the work to make sure it works for you!)

“You should prepare yourself to dedicate at least five or six years to your training and practice to understand the philosophy and physiokinetics of martial arts and karate so that you can understand the true spirit of everything and dedicate your mind, body and spirit to the discipline of the art.” - cejames (note: you are on your own, make sure you get expert hands-on guidance in all things martial and self-defense)

“All I say is by way of discourse, and nothing by way of advice. I should not speak so boldly if it were my due to be believed.” - Montaigne

I am not a leading authority on any one discipline that I write about and teach, it is my hope and wish that with all the subjects I have studied it provides me an advantage point that I offer in as clear and cohesive writings as possible in introducing the matters in my materials. I hope to serve as one who inspires direction in the practitioner so they can go on to discover greater teachers and professionals that will build on this fundamental foundation. Find the authorities and synthesize a wholehearted and holistic concept, perception and belief that will not drive your practices but rather inspire them to evolve, grow and prosper. My efforts are born of those who are more experienced and knowledgable than I. I hope you find that path! See the bibliography I provide for an initial list of experts, professionals and masters of the subjects.

OT: Nationalism and Its Effects on Society

Mull this over, ask, "Can this provide a means to reunite our people for "One Nation Undivided?"

Mull this over, ask, "Does this truly take us in the right direction for a unified democratic society?"

Mull this over, ask, "How do we use this to find a way to 'Stop the Weirdness?'"

- CEJames & Alfonz Ingram

1. Introduction to Nationalism

Nationalism is a political and social ideology that emphasizes the interests, culture, and identity of a particular nation or group. It is rooted in the idea of a shared history, language, ethnicity, or values that define a collective identity.

Nationalism can unite people, foster a sense of pride, and drive political independence. However, it can also lead to xenophobia, exclusion, and conflict.

2. Types of Nationalism

Nationalism manifests in different forms, depending on its goals and influence on society:

A. Civic Nationalism (Political Nationalism)

• Based on shared political values and allegiance to a state rather than ethnic background.

• Encourages democratic participation and civic identity.

• Example: The United States and France, where national identity is based on constitutional principles rather than ethnicity.

• Reference: Kohn, H. (1944). The Idea of Nationalism: A Study in Its Origins and Background.

B. Ethnic Nationalism

• Defines national identity based on shared ethnicity, culture, language, and ancestry.

• Can lead to exclusionary policies and discrimination.

• Example: Nazi Germany’s Aryan nationalism or Serbian nationalism during the Yugoslav Wars.

• Reference: Smith, A. D. (1986). The Ethnic Origins of Nations.

C. Cultural Nationalism

• Focuses on preserving and promoting a nation’s cultural heritage and traditions.

• Often arises as a response to globalization or external influences.

• Example: The Gaelic Revival in Ireland aimed to restore Irish language and culture.

• Reference: Hutchinson, J. (2005). Nations as Zones of Conflict.

D. Economic Nationalism

• Prioritizes national economic interests over global trade and cooperation.

• Often results in protectionist policies, such as tariffs and trade restrictions.

• Example: The “America First” policies of the Trump administration aimed at economic self-sufficiency.

• Reference: Helleiner, E. (2002). Economic Nationalism as a Challenge to Economic Liberalism?.

E. Religious Nationalism

• Links national identity with a dominant religion.

• Can create tensions in multi-religious societies.

• Example: Zionism (Jewish nationalism) and Hindutva (Hindu nationalism in India).

• Reference: Juergensmeyer, M. (1993). The New Cold War? Religious Nationalism Confronts the Secular State.

3. Effects of Nationalism on Society

A. Positive Effects of Nationalism

1. National Unity and Social Cohesion

• Strengthens collective identity and fosters patriotism.

• Example: Nationalist movements in colonized nations helped achieve independence, such as India’s freedom movement led by Mahatma Gandhi.

2. Political Stability and Sovereignty

• Helps establish strong governments and national institutions.

• Example: The unification of Germany under Otto von Bismarck (1871) created a strong centralized state.

3. Economic Growth and National Development

• Encourages domestic industries and self-sufficiency.

• Example: Japan’s Meiji Restoration (1868) modernized its economy through nationalist-driven policies.

4. Preservation of Cultural Heritage

• Promotes language, arts, and traditions unique to a nation.

• Example: Quebec’s language laws protect French culture in Canada.

5. Mobilization for Social Change

• Can be a force for justice and liberation.

• Example: Nelson Mandela’s nationalist leadership in ending apartheid in South Africa.

References:

• Anderson, B. (1983). Imagined Communities: Reflections on the Origin and Spread of Nationalism.

• Smith, A. D. (2009). Ethno-Symbolism and Nationalism: A Cultural Approach.

B. Negative Effects of Nationalism

1. Exclusion and Xenophobia

• Can foster hostility towards immigrants and minorities.

• Example: The rise of far-right nationalist parties in Europe opposing immigration (e.g., Marine Le Pen’s National Rally in France).

2. Ethnic and Religious Conflicts

• Can lead to ethnic cleansing, genocide, and war.

• Example: The Rwandan Genocide (1994) was driven by nationalist sentiments between Hutus and Tutsis.

3. Militarization and Aggressive Expansionism

• Nationalist rhetoric has fueled wars and invasions.

• Example: World War II was driven by nationalist ambitions in Germany, Italy, and Japan.

4. Erosion of Global Cooperation

• Can lead to isolationist policies that harm international relations.

• Example: Brexit (UK’s withdrawal from the EU) was influenced by nationalist concerns over sovereignty.

5. Suppression of Dissent and Political Oppression

• Authoritarian regimes use nationalism to silence opposition.

• Example: North Korea’s nationalism enforces strict loyalty to the regime through propaganda.

References:

• Gellner, E. (1983). Nations and Nationalism.

• Breuilly, J. (1993). Nationalism and the State.

4. Nationalism in the Modern World

A. Nationalism in Global Politics

• Nationalist leaders have gained power in various countries, reshaping political landscapes.

• Example: Leaders like Donald Trump (USA), Narendra Modi (India), and Vladimir Putin (Russia) use nationalist rhetoric to rally support.

B. Digital Nationalism and Social Media

• Online platforms amplify nationalist sentiments, spreading propaganda and fake news.

• Example: The spread of nationalist conspiracies on platforms like Facebook and Twitter.

C. Nationalism vs. Globalization

• Nationalist movements often resist globalization, arguing that it undermines national identity.

• Example: China’s “Great Firewall” restricts foreign influence on the internet.

D. Climate Nationalism

• Some nations prioritize their own environmental policies over global climate agreements.

• Example: The U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Climate Accord under Trump.

References:

• Wimmer, A. (2018). Nation Building: Why Some Countries Come Together While Others Fall Apart.

• Calhoun, C. (1997). Nationalism.

Conclusion

Nationalism is a double-edged sword. It can unite people, preserve culture, and promote national development, but it can also lead to exclusion, conflict, and authoritarianism. In an increasingly interconnected world, balancing nationalism with global cooperation is essential for peace and progress.

References & Further Reading

1. Anderson, B. (1983). Imagined Communities: Reflections on the Origin and Spread of Nationalism.

2. Smith, A. D. (1986). The Ethnic Origins of Nations.

3. Gellner, E. (1983). Nations and Nationalism.

4. Breuilly, J. (1993). Nationalism and the State.

5. Hobsbawm, E.