POLITICAL
POLITICAL
Session 2023-24
“Nationalism vs Internationalism”
I hereby declare that the work reported in this project entitled, “Nationalism vs
Internationalism” submitted to the S. S. Jain Subodh Law College, Jaipur is an authentic
record of my work carried out under the supervision of Asst. Prof. Dr. Rajni Khandelwal It is
further certified that there is no plagiarism in this work. I further attest that I am fully responsible
for its content.
This it to certify that the work reported un the project entitled “Nationalism vs
Internationalism submitted by Preksha Yadav, to the S.S. Jain Subodh Law College,
Jaipur is a Bonafide record of his original work carried out under by supervision. It is
further certified that there is no plagiarism in it. This work is being recommended for further
evaluation by the external examiner.
Date
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Getting a project ready requires the work and efforts of many people. I would like to
pay my sincere gratitude and thanks to those people, who directed me at every step in
this project work. This present report is based on “Nationalism vs
Internationalism”
I wish to express my sincere gratitude to S .S. Jain Subodh Law College, Jaipur for
providing me an opportunity to do this project which helped me in doing a lot of
research.
I sincerely thank Asst. Prof. Dr. Rajni Khandelwal (Assistant Professor of Political
Science ) for their guidance and encouragement in carrying out this project work. I also
want to express my gratitude to the officials and other staff members of S .S. Jain
Subodh Law College, Jaipur rendered their help during the period of my project
work.
Finally, I would like to thank my parents and friends who have helped me with their
valuable suggestions and have been very helpful in various stages of project completion.
ABSTRACT
The project titled “Nationalism vs. Internationalism” explores the dynamic interplay
between two contrasting political ideologies that shape contemporary global and national
discourse. Nationalism, characterized by a strong sense of identity and loyalty to one's
own nation, often emphasizes sovereignty, cultural distinctiveness, and political
autonomy. In contrast, internationalism advocates for global cooperation, mutual respect,
and the pursuit of common interests across national boundaries.
By investigating key case studies and theoretical perspectives, the project aims to
elucidate the complexities of these ideologies and their implications for contemporary
political and social challenges. It explores how nationalism can both foster a sense of
unity and contribute to exclusionary practices, while internationalism can promote global
solidarity but may encounter resistance from nationalist sentiments.
The findings of this project provide valuable insights into the ongoing debate between
nationalism and internationalism, offering a nuanced understanding of how these
ideologies interact and influence each other in the modern world. Through this
exploration, the project contributes to a broader comprehension of how nations navigate
the balance between asserting their own identities and engaging in cooperative global
governance.
TABLE OF CONTENT
Sr.No Title
1. Declaration by the student
2. Supervisor’s Certificate
3. Acknowledgement
4. Abstract
5. Chapter: 1
6. Chapter:2
7. Chapter:3
8. Chapter:4
9. Chapter:5
CHAPTER:1 INTRODUCTION
Nationalism and internationalism represent two fundamental, yet often opposing, ideologies that
shape global politics and social structures. Nationalism emphasizes the importance of national
identity, sovereignty, and self-determination. It fosters a sense of unity among people who share
a common heritage, language, or culture, often prioritizing the interests and values of the nation-
state over those of the international community. Nationalist movements can manifest in various
forms, from patriotic sentiments to political actions aimed at achieving or preserving national
independence and autonomy.
In contrast, internationalism advocates for global cooperation and collaboration across national
borders. It emphasizes shared human interests and values, promoting the idea that nations should
work together to address common challenges and pursue collective goals. Internationalism
supports the establishment of global institutions and agreements designed to foster peace,
economic development, and social justice on a worldwide scale. It often challenges the notion of
national sovereignty when it conflicts with broader global interests or humanitarian concerns.
Understanding the interplay between nationalism and internationalism is crucial for several
reasons. In an increasingly globalized world, the tension between these ideologies influences
international relations, domestic policies, and individual identities. Nationalism can both unite
and divide, fostering a sense of belonging while potentially leading to exclusionary practices or
conflicts. On the other hand, internationalism aims to bridge divides and promote global
solidarity, yet it can face resistance from nationalist sentiments that prioritize national interests
over global cooperation.
This study explores how these ideologies shape political decisions, social dynamics, and
international interactions. By examining the historical development, theoretical underpinnings,
and practical applications of nationalism and internationalism, this project aims to provide a
comprehensive understanding of their impact on contemporary issues. It seeks to elucidate how
these ideologies influence global governance, national policies, and the broader socio-political
landscape.
How have nationalism and internationalism evolved over time, and what are their
historical roots?
What are the core principles and theoretical frameworks of nationalism and
internationalism?
What are the main challenges and opportunities associated with balancing nationalist and
internationalist agendas?
1.4 Methodology
The report is organized into several chapters, each addressing a specific aspect of the study:
Nationalism, as a political and cultural ideology, has deep historical roots that can be traced back
to the emergence of the modern nation-state. Its origins are closely linked to the rise of centralized
political entities and the decline of feudal structures in Europe during the late medieval and early
modern periods. The concept of nationalism began to take shape during the Renaissance, a period
marked by a growing sense of national identity and distinctiveness among various European
states.
During the 16th and 17th centuries, the fragmentation of the Holy Roman Empire and the
consolidation of power by emerging nation-states like France and England laid the groundwork
for modern nationalism. The Peace of Westphalia (1648), which ended the Thirty Years' War, is
often cited as a pivotal moment in the development of the modern state system and the idea of
national sovereignty. It marked the recognition of state boundaries and the principle of non-
interference in the domestic affairs of other states, which became central to nationalist ideology.
The late 18th and early 19th centuries witnessed the rise of nationalism as a powerful force,
particularly during and after the Age of Revolutions. The American Revolution (1776) and the
French Revolution (1789) were significant milestones in this process. Both revolutions were
driven by nationalist sentiments, with the American colonies seeking independence from British
rule and the French revolutionaries advocating for a national identity based on liberty, equality,
and fraternity.
The French Revolution, in particular, had a profound impact on the development of nationalism.
The concept of "la patrie" (the fatherland) became a rallying cry, and the revolutionary leaders
sought to create a unified French nation-state based on the principles of popular sovereignty and
national self-determination. The spread of nationalist ideas across Europe, fueled by the
Napoleonic Wars, contributed to the rise of nationalist movements in various countries.
The 19th century saw the consolidation of nationalism as a dominant ideology in Europe and
beyond. The unification of Germany and Italy in the latter half of the century are prime examples
of nationalist movements achieving significant political outcomes. Figures like Otto von
Bismarck in Germany and Giuseppe Garibaldi in Italy played crucial roles in unifying
fragmented states into cohesive nation-states, driven by nationalist aspirations.
CHAPTER:2 Historical Development of Nationalism
In addition to European contexts, nationalism began to influence other parts of the world. In Latin
America, nationalist movements led by figures such as Simón Bolívar and José de San Martín
sought to liberate Spanish colonies and establish independent nation-states. Similarly, in Asia
and Africa, nationalist movements began to emerge as responses to colonial domination and
foreign rule.
The 20th century brought both the triumphs and challenges of nationalism. The aftermath of
World War I saw the redrawing of national boundaries and the emergence of new nation-states,
driven by the principle of self-determination articulated in President Woodrow Wilson's Fourteen
Points. The Treaty of Versailles (1919) and the establishment of the League of Nations reflected
the international community's efforts to address nationalist aspirations and prevent future
conflicts.
However, the interwar period also saw the rise of extreme forms of nationalism, exemplified by
fascist regimes in Italy, Germany, and Japan. The aggressive expansionist policies of these
regimes contributed to the outbreak of World War II. After the war, the decolonization process
saw many former colonies gaining independence and establishing nation-states, further
emphasizing the role of nationalism in shaping global politics.
In the contemporary era, nationalism continues to be a significant force in global politics. The
end of the Cold War and the dissolution of the Soviet Union led to the emergence of new nation-
states and the reassertion of nationalist identities. Nationalism has influenced political
movements, from the rise of populist leaders to secessionist movements seeking independence
from established states.
At the same time, nationalism faces challenges from globalization and supranational institutions.
The tension between national sovereignty and global integration is a key issue in current
international relations, as countries grapple with balancing national interests with broader global
concerns.
Summary
The historical development of nationalism reflects its evolution from early modern Europe to its
current manifestations. From its roots in the rise of nation-states and revolutionary movements
CHAPTER:2 Historical Development of Nationalism
to its impact on global politics in the 20th and 21st centuries, nationalism has played a central
role in shaping political identities, state structures, and international relations. Understanding this
historical trajectory provides valuable insights into the ongoing debates and conflicts between
nationalism and internationalism.
CHAPTER:3 Historical Development of Internationalism
Internationalism as an ideology advocating for global cooperation and integration emerged in the
19th century as a counterpoint to the rising tide of nationalism. Its roots can be traced to the
Enlightenment era, a period characterized by an emphasis on reason, science, and human
progress. Philosophers like Immanuel Kant envisioned a cosmopolitan world where nations
would come together to promote peace and cooperation. Kant’s essay, "Perpetual Peace" (1795),
proposed the idea of a federation of free states bound by democratic principles, laying the
groundwork for modern internationalism.
During the 19th century, the spread of international trade, colonialism, and diplomacy
highlighted the need for international cooperation to manage cross-border interactions and
conflicts. The establishment of the first international organizations, such as the International
Telegraph Union (1865) and the Universal Postal Union (1874), marked the beginning of formal
international cooperation.
The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the establishment of several key international
organizations aimed at fostering global cooperation and addressing global issues. The
International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), founded in 1863, exemplified the spirit of
international humanitarianism by providing aid to victims of war and natural disasters without
regard to national boundaries.
The early 20th century witnessed the creation of the first global institution dedicated to
maintaining peace and security: the League of Nations. Established in 1920 following World
War I, the League aimed to prevent future conflicts through collective security and diplomatic
engagement. Despite its eventual failure to prevent World War II, the League of Nations laid the
foundation for the modern international system of organizations.
The aftermath of World War II marked a significant turning point in the development of
internationalism. The horrors of the war and the need for a more effective mechanism to prevent
future conflicts led to the creation of the United Nations (UN) in 1945. The UN was established
with the primary goals of maintaining international peace and security, promoting human rights,
and fostering social and economic development.
CHAPTER:3 Historical Development of Internationalism
The UN Charter emphasized the importance of international cooperation and collective action,
and the organization quickly became a central player in global governance. The establishment of
specialized agencies, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International
Monetary Fund (IMF), reflected the growing scope of internationalism in addressing a wide
range of global issues.
During the Cold War, internationalism faced significant challenges as the world was divided into
two major blocs led by the United States and the Soviet Union. The ideological rivalry between
these superpowers often overshadowed international cooperative efforts. However, the Cold War
period also saw the strengthening of international institutions and treaties aimed at managing
nuclear risks, such as the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and arms control agreements.
The era also saw the rise of regional organizations and alliances, such as the European Union
(EU) and the African Union (AU), which aimed to promote regional integration and cooperation.
These organizations played crucial roles in regional stability and development, demonstrating
the practical applications of internationalism in addressing specific regional challenges.
The end of the Cold War in 1991 marked a new era for internationalism. The collapse of the
Soviet Union and the emergence of a unipolar world order led to increased global cooperation
and the expansion of international institutions. The 1990s and early 2000s saw significant
progress in areas such as human rights, environmental protection, and economic development
through international agreements and collaborations.
The establishment of the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 1995 and the signing of the Kyoto
Protocol (1997) on climate change exemplified the continued relevance of internationalism in
addressing global issues. The growth of global civil society, with numerous non-governmental
organizations (NGOs) and transnational advocacy networks, further highlighted the importance
of international cooperation.
nationalism and populism in various countries has led to a reassertion of national interests and a
questioning of international institutions.
Despite these challenges, internationalism remains a crucial framework for addressing global
problems and fostering cooperation among nations. The ongoing efforts to reform international
institutions, enhance global governance, and promote sustainable development reflect the
enduring significance of internationalism in shaping a more cooperative and interconnected
world.
CHAPTER:4 Comparative Analysis of Nationalism and Internationalism
Nationalism and internationalism represent two contrasting ideologies with distinct views on the
role and significance of nation-states and global governance. Nationalism is centered on the idea
of national identity and sovereignty, emphasizing the importance of a cohesive and independent
nation-state. It advocates for the preservation of cultural heritage, political autonomy, and
national interests. Nationalists often prioritize the interests of their nation above those of others,
seeing their nation as a unique entity deserving of self-determination and protection.
In contrast, internationalism advocates for global cooperation and integration. It emphasizes the
interconnectedness of nations and the need for collective action to address global issues.
Internationalists argue that global challenges, such as climate change, pandemics, and conflicts,
transcend national borders and require collaborative solutions. Internationalism promotes the
idea of a global community where nations work together to achieve common goals and uphold
universal values.
The practical implications of nationalism and internationalism can be seen in various historical
and contemporary contexts. Nationalism often manifests in policies and actions that prioritize
national interests, sometimes at the expense of international cooperation. For example, nationalist
policies might include protectionist trade practices, restrictive immigration laws, or unilateral
military actions. These approaches can lead to tension and conflict between nations, as they
prioritize national goals over collaborative solutions.
Internationalism, on the other hand, is reflected in efforts to foster global cooperation and address
shared challenges. International organizations, such as the United Nations (UN) and the World
Trade Organization (WTO), exemplify internationalist principles by facilitating dialogue,
negotiation, and cooperation among nations. International agreements, such as the Paris
Agreement on climate change and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), demonstrate the
internationalist commitment to addressing global issues through collective action.
Nationalism and internationalism can sometimes come into conflict, particularly in situations
where national interests clash with global goals. For example, during times of crisis, such as the
COVID-19 pandemic, nationalist policies may prioritize national access to vaccines or resources
over equitable global distribution. This can hinder international efforts to control the pandemic
and address its global impact.
However, nationalism and internationalism are not mutually exclusive and can coexist in various
ways. For instance, nationalist movements can sometimes embrace internationalist principles
when pursuing specific goals that align with global interests. Nationalist leaders may engage in
international cooperation to address shared challenges, such as environmental protection or
counter-terrorism, while still prioritizing national interests in other areas.
The future of nationalism and internationalism will likely involve ongoing negotiation and
interplay between these ideologies. As globalization continues to shape the world, the need for
effective international cooperation and governance remains critical. At the same time, rising
nationalist sentiments and populist movements may challenge the effectiveness of international
institutions and agreements.
Addressing this dynamic will require a nuanced understanding of the strengths and limitations of
both nationalism and internationalism. Policymakers and scholars must consider how to balance
national interests with global responsibilities and how to foster cooperation while respecting
national identities and sovereignty. The evolving relationship between nationalism and
internationalism will shape the future of global governance and international relations
CHAPTER:5 Challenges and Conflicts Between Nationalism and
Internationalism
5.1 Tensions Between National and Global Priorities
One of the central challenges in balancing nationalism and internationalism is the tension
between national priorities and global responsibilities. Nationalist perspectives often emphasize
the importance of prioritizing a nation's interests and sovereignty, which can conflict with the
principles of international cooperation and global solidarity. For instance, nationalist
governments may pursue policies that benefit their country in the short term, such as trade
protectionism or restrictive immigration measures, which can undermine international
agreements and global cooperation.
Conversely, internationalist policies advocate for collective action and compromise to address
global issues. However, these policies can sometimes be perceived as compromising national
sovereignty or interests. For example, agreements that require nations to adhere to international
standards or share resources may be viewed as limiting a country's autonomy or economic
interests. This perceived threat to national sovereignty can generate resistance from nationalist
factions and complicate efforts to achieve global cooperation.
The rise of nationalist populism in recent years has exacerbated conflicts between nationalism
and internationalism. Populist leaders often appeal to national pride and sovereignty, criticizing
international institutions and agreements as threats to national identity and control. This populist
rhetoric can lead to policies that reject or undermine international cooperation, such as exiting
trade agreements, withdrawing from international organizations, or opposing global climate
initiatives.
Populist movements can also create domestic divisions, as they often frame global integration as
detrimental to national interests and local communities. This can result in increased political
polarization and resistance to internationalist policies. The challenge, therefore, is to address the
concerns of nationalist populists while promoting the benefits of global cooperation and
integration. Finding common ground between national and global interests is crucial for
maintaining stability and advancing international agendas.
Economic nationalism, which prioritizes domestic economic interests and protectionism, often
conflicts with the principles of global economic cooperation. Nationalist economic policies may
include tariffs, trade barriers, and subsidies aimed at protecting domestic industries from
CHAPTER:5 Challenges and Conflicts Between Nationalism and
Internationalism
international competition. While these measures can benefit certain sectors within a country, they
can also lead to trade wars, economic inefficiencies, and strained international relations.
Global economic cooperation, on the other hand, relies on open markets, free trade, and
collaborative economic policies to promote growth and stability. International organizations such
as the World Trade Organization (WTO) advocate for reducing trade barriers and fostering
economic integration among nations. However, the clash between economic nationalism and
global economic cooperation can lead to conflicts and challenges in achieving equitable and
effective economic policies on a global scale.
CONCLUSION
On the other hand, internationalism advocates for global cooperation, collective action, and the
pursuit of shared goals across national boundaries. It promotes the idea that global challenges—
such as climate change, economic inequality, and human rights—require collaborative efforts
and transcending national interests. Internationalism seeks to foster a sense of global solidarity
and interconnectedness, recognizing that issues affecting one part of the world often have
implications for others.
The tensions between nationalism and internationalism present both opportunities and
challenges. Nationalist perspectives can lead to a reinforcement of cultural and political
identities, but they can also result in isolationism, protectionism, and conflicts with international
norms and agreements. Conversely, internationalist approaches can advance global cooperation
and address transnational problems, but they may also be perceived as compromising national
sovereignty and autonomy.
To navigate these tensions, it is crucial to find a balance that respects national identities and
sovereignty while promoting global cooperation and addressing global challenges. This requires
an understanding of the benefits and limitations of both ideologies and a commitment to dialogue
and compromise. By fostering an environment where national and global interests can be aligned,
it is possible to build a more inclusive and cooperative international order.
In conclusion, the interplay between nationalism and internationalism will continue to shape the
political landscape and influence global dynamics. Recognizing and addressing the challenges
and conflicts inherent in this relationship is essential for creating policies and frameworks that
can harmonize national interests with the goals of global unity and cooperation.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Books:
Hobsbawm, Eric J. Nations and Nationalism since 1780: Programme, Myth, Reality.
Cambridge University Press, 1990.
Journal Articles:
Mann, Michael. “The Autonomous Power of the State: Its Origins, Mechanisms and
Results.” European Journal of Sociology, vol. 25, no. 2, 1984, pp. 185-213.
o Examines the role of the state in the context of nationalism and its interactions
with global forces.
Gilpin, Robert. “The Nature of Political Economy.” International Organization, vol. 32,
no. 2, 1978, pp. 309-324.