The role of language in European nationalist ideologies
Jef Verschueren1992, Pragmatics
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Abstract
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The paper examines the role of language in shaping European nationalist ideologies, as influenced by historical perspectives on nationalism and identity. It builds upon previous works, particularly the insights of E.J. Hobsbawm, to analyze the intricacies of national identification and the importance of understanding these ideologies from the perspective of ordinary individuals. The aim is to contribute to an ongoing research project that seeks to document and analyze mainstream European thought regarding nations and group identity, focusing on ethnic conflicts and separatist movements.
Key takeaways
- Hobsbawm concludes that "the phenomenon [of nationalism] is past its peak."
- Because of the need for linguistic coherence, German as the only language of Germany is taken for granted.
- Nationalism (or even more generally, ethnic diversity), at least within the UK, is treated as folklore: it is not to be taken seriously as a political movement in Britain.
- The shortcomings of language learning, or education at large, as potential solutions for interethnic conflicts demonstrate that nationalism is based on the fundamental, natural, need for a homogeneous society.
- We find a primitive political theory underlying seemingly trivial statements and suggestions about the role of language in nationalism.
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