Theorizing Nationalism

Ronald Beiner editor

Format:Paperback

Publisher:State University of New York Press

Published:23rd Dec '98

Should be back in stock very soon

Theorizing Nationalism cover

Presents some of the best work by political theorists on themes concerning citizenship, national identity, and the philosophical meaning of political membership.

Theorizing Nationalism directly addresses the normative dimensions of nationalism. A sequel to Theorizing Citizenship, this volume brings theoretical and philosophical clarity to an examination of the political appeal and normative status of nationalist claims. Some of the themes it discusses are the following: whether there is a "right" to collective self-determination, the relationship between nationalism and modernity, whether nationalism and liberalism can be reconciled, whether there is a theoretically legitimate distinction between so-called civic and ethnic versions of nationalism, and the "existential" attractiveness of nationalism.

"It is exceptional to have so many of the leading figures in the debate all together in one volume. Unlike most volumes of collected essays which are the proceedings of a conference where the papers are often of very different quality, all these essays are strong. With the rise of ethnic and nationalist movements in the former Soviet bloc at the same time that globalization is supposed to be taking place, there is a great deal of interest in nationalism and its civic appeal. Furthermore, in academic circles the issue of whether or not nationalism can be benign (liberal), which is covered wonderfully in this book, is very important in the debate about liberalism, communitarianism, and civic republicanism." — Simone Chambers, University of Colorado at Boulder

"Beiner has selected some of the best, most thoughtful discussions in political theory on nationalism. There is a lot of work on nationalism by sociologists and historians, but this volume incorporates work by political philosophers and political theorists. It therefore performs a valuable, and much needed, service." — Margaret Moore, University of Waterloo

"Theorizing Nationalism is an excellent collection of essays on a topic that is highly significant, to say the least. Beiner has done us a favor by drawing into one volume thought-provoking essays that previously were scattered in many places. Besides the virtue of its high quality, this book stands out for highlighting political theoretical and philosophical reflections on the national question. Few if any other collections have this disciplinary bent." — Joan Cocks, Mount Holyoke College

ISBN: 9780791440667

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: 535g

338 pages